Dr. Pritzker is wonderful. She is thoughtful about procedures -- and mindful of the economics when recommending something. I've had various levels of Fraxel over the year, dysport and I'm going to have thermiRF.
I went to Dr Pritzker for facial fillers. I was so impressed by her professionalism, knowledge, injecting skills and approachability. She showed a genuine interest in my concerns about my facial aging and answered my many questions very honestly. I was very, very happy with my treatment and the level of service I received from everyone at the practice. I have been to several dermatologists and this is hands down the best practice I have experienced. Thank you Dr Pritzker!
The skin along with the fat was frozen during this process, and it is not unusual for it to respond with the sensation of itching in the area. The area can still be numb from this process and then itchy in its recovery. If there is a rash on the skin, then the treatment may be different. I encourage you to speak with your provider again if this sensation persists or if there is a rash on the skin. Good Luck!
Sculptra is a different product that the hyaluronic acid products which cause immediate changes. Sculptra is a wonderful product, but takes several injections and a natural buildup of your collagen in response to these treatments to see the great changes. The earilest from the first treatment is usually minimium of 6 weeks. It is a natural change that occurs slowly, but it also breaks down more slowly than other products, giving you more long lasting effects! From your photo, Sculptra would be a great match for you! Unfortunately it cannot be used around the eyes as this is very thin skin and could cause small lumps and bumps under the skin.
Because of your darker skin type, you are more susceptible to darkening of the skin after a rash or acne (inflammation). If there is a significant darkening in the area, the first step would be to use a hydroquinone based product -- I do prefer the triple ingredient products (ie: Triluma) as it was a prescription strength hydroquinone along with a topical steroid to minimize inflammation which could make it worse and a retin-a to help penetration. I would start this around now (difficult to tell without seeing the actual spot) or you can wait a few more weeks to see its natural course. Make sure to follow up with the physician who prescribes the medication for directions on how to apply and how long.
I do see a variation among patients after this procedure in terms of redness, firmness, and cold sensation. A majority of the time there is a well defined red firm "block" under the skin where the treatment was done, but sometimes this is not seen. I would wait the time to see the results and speak about this issue with your treating physician at that time. A second treatment is usually done in the area to enhance the results anyways. Follow up would we key after this situation.
Great question. All scars are different and all people heal differently. Depending on how deep the scar is (what it is from), your own healing tendencies, and location of the scar all make a difference in the final outcome. A month is still a short period of time and your scar will continue to improve in appearance; likely filling in as well. After 3 months, or even sooner-- you may consider being evaluated by the proper physician to address the possibilities of dermal filler, laser resurfacing, or even surgical scar revision. The first two are non-invasive ways to really improve the texture of scars after a series of treatments on the cheek. Good luck!
