I have had IPL treatments several places but the results were so much better at Premier Dermatology with Donna Billu Martin, MD. I Highly recommend this treatment for melasma and overall better skin. I would not trust anyone else in town for these types of procedures. She is very knowledgeable, efficient and friendly.
Photodynamic therapy, or PDT, is a procedure in which levulan, a photosensitizer, is applied to the skin and incubates (is left on the skin) for a period of time. Levulan is then activated by a light source, such as blue light, or intense pulsed light. Actinic keratoses (precursors to squamous cell carcinoma) and acne both respond well to the treatment. While initial studies for the treatment were done with longer incubation times (8 hours), many studies have shown that shorter times (1-2 hours) are just as effective. Generally, the incubation time varies with the part of the body treated and the condition being treated. It is very important to protect skin from the sun for at least 48 hours post treatment.
There are several keys to achieving a natural lip augmentation.1. A board certified dermatologist with cosmetic experience should perform the procedure2. The filler should be one suited to the lips, such as hyaluronic acid (Juvederm or Restylane). Radiesse and Sculptra will form lumps and should never be injected into the lips.3. A conservative amount should be injected. Remember, more can always be added later.4. The normal anatomy of the lips must be followed: the natural shape and proportions of the lips should be maintained. Asymmetry can be corrected, but the anatomy still needs to be respected.For a consultation with Dr. Bilu Martin, call 305-521-8971.
We dermatologists have eagerly been awaiting the FDA approval of Voluma. Made by Allergan, the makers of Botox and Juvederm, it is the only filler specifically approved for mid face volumizing. Some great things about Voluma: it's made of hyaluronic acid (like Juvederm, Restylane, and Perlane), so it can be dissolved with hyaluronic acid if needed. It's a thicker product designed to lift, so a little goes a long way. Voluma is meant to be placed deep, right on top of the cheekbone, similar to Radiesse. As with all fillers, a board certified dermatologist with cosmetic experience should perform the treatments.
Those prone to cold sores (herpes infections) can be treated with prescription oral antiviral medications prior to treatment and after treatment.
Radiesse is a great option for filling and reshaping the jawline. It is injected deeply, over the bone. This is an advanced, off-label technique. While Radiesse is longer lasting (12-18 months), it is not permanent. Facial movement will not affect the filler. As with all filler procedures, a board-certified dermatologist with cosmetic experience should perform the procedure.
