“Restoring a More Youthful Appearance - New York, NY”

I had plastic surgery (first time in my life) when I turned 50 to rejuvenate my face...upper and lower eyelids, brow lift, full face lift. Loved the results after everything healed, but time marches on; the aging process continues.

Today, at 54, I still look 1,000 times better than before the surgery, and want to maintain a more youthful appearance(and protect my investment!). This means doing some maintenance on a regular basis. My lips lost volume and wrinkles began to appear around my upper lip (although I have never smoked). Instead of getting repeated injections of a dermal filler in the lips I went for perma facial implant about 7 months ago. As with the other facial surgery, after healing, I love the results. Growing bolder, I started to get light BOTOX injections...more great results.

Confident in the skill and expertise of my cosmetic surgeon, I asked him about Juvederm earlier this week when I went in for BOTOX. I know that I can't get surgery for every little droop or wrinkle -- thank goodness for dermal fillers. He recommended putting a little Juvederm in the nasal labial folds, and also in my upper cheeks to restore volume and create a gentle lift. He's great about explaining the concepts behind his recommendations so I understand what to expect and can envision the end-result. I trust him implicitly and didn't think twice about going for it.

I was nervous because shots in the face aren't something most people look forward to. His assistant applied ice to the treatment areas before the filler injections. I felt very, very little discomfort during the procedure. In about 20 minutes I had BOTOX and Juvederm, and was out of the office walking down the streets of Manhattan looking good. Talk about instant gratification!

One day later I have only a couple of small, pinhead-sized bruises from the Juvederm injections which are easily covered with makeup, and some minor swelling that is barely noticeable. The filler is evenly distributed without lumps, and feels natural. I will definitely keep this up!

Updated on 28 Jun 2011:
It's been a few weeks since the Juvederm treatments in my upper cheeks and nasal labial folds. I had BOTOX too around the eyes and around the corners of my mouth which tend to pull down. The combined effect is fantastic. The small wrinkles near the corners of my eyes have disappeared again, and the corners of my mouth look better. I think the Juvederm in the upper cheeks which restored a little volume, did wonders. It's subtle, but the result is a naturally refreshed look. As usual with Dr. P., I don't look "done." I see many women who are attractive but they look like they have a mask on; they don't look natural.

I believe maintenance is important, and it takes more as you age. Dermal fillers and BOTOX, when not over-done, are simply fabulous ways to maintain a more youthful appearance. Yes, it's an ongoing cost, but so is getting your hair cut & colored, nails done, and everything else. For me, feeling good about my appearance is so worth it!