Frequently Asked Questions
Treatment Information
- Frequently Asked Questions about Permanent Hair Removal
- Frequently Asked Questions about Skin Rejuvenation
- Frequently Asked Questions about Wrinkle Fillers
- Frequently Asked Questions about Botox
- Frequently Asked Questions About CoolSculpting
- Frequently Asked Questions About Exilis Ultra
- Frequently Asked Questions about Varicose Veins
- Frequently Asked Questions about Spider Veins
- Frequently Asked Questions about Sclerotherapy
- Frequently Asked Questions about Endovenous Laser Therapy (ELT)
- Frequently Asked Questions about Ambulatory Phlebectomy
- Frequently Asked Questions about Gift Cards
- Frequently Asked Questions About EmSculpt
Deep Vein Thrombosis Prevention
- What Is DVT Video
- Travel Tips To Prevent DVTs Video
- Office Tips To Prevent DVTs Video
- DVT Risk Assessment
- DVT Exercise Guide
- DVT Brochure
Frequently Asked Questions about Permanent Hair Removal
Should I shave before the treatment?
Shaving the day before or just prior to treatment is recommended and you may shave again twenty-four hours after treatment unless your provider tells you otherwise.
Is it safe?
Laser hair removal is the most popular aesthetic procedure performed annually. Hair removal is one of the aesthetic medical industry’s most well-known and researched uses of lasers and the Pain-Free, Hair-Free™ treatment has provided safe and effective permanent hair reduction for thousands of patients worldwide. Because Pain-Free, Hair-Free™ utilizes our IN-MOTION™ and low-heat settings we’re able to provide a level of safety unlike any other laser hair removal procedure.
How many treatments will I need?
Typically, 4 to 6 treatments is adequate to provide permanent hair reduction. However, after a one-on-one consultation, your provider may determine that based on the density of your hair, hair color and skin color, you may require additional treatment. Your provider will advise you. It’s not unusual to require a touch-up treatment two years after completing laser hair removal treatments.
Will my hair ever grow back?
Actively growing hairs that are treated should not grow back. Once a hair follicle is damaged it cannot grow hair. However, hair follicles that were not in the active growth phase will need to be treated. It’s also not unusual for patients to have a touch-up two years after initial treatment due to hormonal changes.
Why do I need 4 – 6 treatments?
Hair growth occurs in 4 stages: Early Anagen (early hair growth), Anagen (active hair growth) Catagen (regression) Telogen (resting, not growing) Laser hair removal only affects the Anagen stage, (actively growing hair). Therefore, approximately twenty-five-percent of hair is removed with each treatment. After 4 to 6 treatments, the area should be free from hair.
Do I need to arrange time off from work for treatments?
No. Pain-Free, Hair-Free™ has no “down time” and requires no recovery time. You can have a Pain-Free, Hair-Free™ treatment and return to work, school or other normal activities immediately.
How do I know it really won’t hurt?
Most people find the Pain-Free, Hair-Free™ laser hair removal treatment comfortable, especially when compared to other hair removal methods and lasers. This is one of few laser hair removal procedures where numbing cream is not necessary.
Who can be treated?
Men and women of all skin colors and most hair colors have been successfully treated. For best results, laser hair removal treatments are customized according to skin color, hair texture, and the area to be treated.
Frequently Asked Questions about Skin Rejuvenation
AFT Intense Pulsed Light
How does AFT intense pulsed light technology work?
AFT pulsed light is applied in a series of gentle pulses over the treatment area. Without damaging the skin, the light penetrates the sub-surface skin layers and is absorbed by the blood vessels or by pigmentation. The heat impairs the vessel or lesion, and the body begins its natural healing process.
Is this treatment safe?
AFT’s pulsed light’s gentle energy parameters assure safe, effective treatment. Uniquely shaped AFT pulses precisely heat their intended targets, causing remarkably little or no skin damage or discomfort. Clinical trials conducted by leading authorities on pulsed light document its safely and effectiveness.
Does it hurt?
Most people tolerate AFT pulsed light treatment well, and describe the sensation as a rubber band snap to the skin. Topical anesthetic is an option for more sensitive areas.
What can I expect during the treatment?
AFT photorejuvenation treatments range from 15 to 30 minutes. First, the treated area is cleansed and a cool gel is applied. The light pulse is then delivered, with little or no discomfort. After treatment, the gel is removed and the skin is cleansed. You can resume all regular activities immediately.
How many treatments will I need?
Treatment generally involves a series of five sessions. While some patients see significant improvement in two or three treatments, others may require more. To maintain results, patients may opt for follow-up treatments.
Are there any side effects?
Side effects are rare. Immediately following treatment, the skin may appear flushed, brown pigmented spots may appear darker and capillaries may be more visible. To help guarantee the best results, limit your exposure to the sun for several weeks before and after treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Wrinkle Fillers
Radiesse
What is Radiesse?
Radiesse, formerly known as Radiance, is the first calcium hydroxylapatite injectable cohesive implant used for soft tissue augmentation. Calcium is a natural substance already in the body, so Radiesse causes no allergic reactions of inflammation.
How does Radiesse work?
Radiesse is gently injected under the skin, and builds up the tissues of the face, reducing folds and creases and restoring fullness. Unlike products that lose their effectiveness within only a few months, Radiesse provides years of rejuvenation with intermittent touch ups. Radiesse is ideal for lines between the nose and mouth, between eyebrows, and on the upper lip.
What are the advantages of Radiesse?
- Relatively painless.
- Results are immediate.
- It cannot provoke any allergic reaction.
- It is soft and remains pliable for years.
- It is cost-effective because it is long lasting.
- You can return to normal activities after your treatment.
What are the side effects of Radiesse?
- Minimal swelling and redness at the injection site
- Minor pain with injection
How long does Radiesse last?
While some touch ups may be needed, depending on the area treated, most of your correction may last for several months or years.
Juvéderm Ultra & Juvéderm Ultra Plus
What is Juvéderm?
Juvéderm injectable gel is a smooth gel filler that is eased under your skin to instantly smooth out those wrinkles or folds that look like parentheses along the side of your nose and mouth. Results aren’t just instant, they’re so smooth and natural, everyone will notice but no one will know.
What is the difference between Juvéderm Ultra and Juvéderm Ultra Plus?
Juvéderm Ultra injectable gel is optimally formulated for versatility in contouring and volumizing wrinkles and folds, while Juvéderm Ultra Plus is a robust formulation used for volumizing and correcting deeper wrinkles and folds. Your doctor or nurse can tell you which formulation is just right for you.
What can I expect during and after my treatment?
Your healthcare professional will assess your facial wrinkles and folds to determine if Juvéderm treatment is right for you. Wrinkle correction with Juvéderm is a quick, in-office procedure with immediate results.
Restylane
What is Restylane?
Restylane is a cosmetic dermal filler that replaces lost volume and restores youthful contours to the skin to smooth away moderate to severe facial wrinkles and folds, such as the lines from your nose to the corners of your mouth, known as nasolabial folds.
How long does it last?
Restylane’s patented stabilization technology helps maintain the cosmetic effect for about six months.
Is Restylane FDA approved?
Yes, Restylane is approved by the FDA for the treatment of moderate to severe facial wrinkles and folds.
What should I do prior to the treatment?
Restylane does not require any pretesting, but you should take a few precautions before being treated. Avoid using aspirin, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications, St. John’s Wort, or high doses of Vitamin E supplements prior to treatment, because they may increase bruising or bleeding at the injection site. Also, if you have previously suffered from facial cold sores, discuss this with you healthcare professional, who may prescribe a medication to minimize recurrence.
How is Restylane administered?
Restylane is administered by injection to the treatment site. Before treatment, talk with your healthcare professional about pain management.
Do the injections hurt?
As with all injections, some patients may experience discomfort. To increase your comfort, your healthcare professional will assess your need for pain management and determine what technique is right for you.
Frequently Asked Questions about Botox
What is Botox® Cosmetic?
Botox Cosmetic is a natural, purified protein that is used to relax the muscles that cause wrinkles. It is used to smooth the lines between the brows, forehead and crow’s feet. It is the only treatment of its type approved by the FDA for this use.
What is the procedure like?
The treatment is simple, safe and non-surgical and takes about 10 minutes. A very low dose of Botox is injected with a very fine needle into the specific muscle that is contracting and causing the lines and wrinkles on the face. As a result, the muscle relaxes and the overlying skin remains unwrinkled and smooth. The effects are usually confined to the injected area and gradually disappear without traveling throughout the body.
Is the procedure painful?
The pain is minimal. Most patients compare it to a bug bite. No anesthetic is required and the patient can go back to work or continue their activities immediately after the procedure.
When will I see results?
Typically, the effects of Botox are visible within 4 days. Maximum results are reached between 10-14 days.
How long does a Botox treatment last?
Results usually last 3-4 months, after which lines gradually revert to their pretreated appearance. The results following several treatments may last 6-8 months or more.
Are there any side effects?
The side effects, if any, are usually mild and temporary. You may notice slight bruising where Botox Cosmetic was injected. This is temporary and can be covered by makeup. In other rare cases you can experience headaches, nausea, and temporary eyelid droop.
Will my facial expressions look natural?
Yes. You can still form a smile or look surprised… without the creases and wrinkles between the brows. You’ll have a more relaxed and youthful appearance.
For more information, visit www.botoxcosmetic.com.
Frequently Asked Questions About CoolSculpting
What happens during the treatment?
To initiate the treatment we will position the device on your body. The device will then draw the bulge up between two cooling panels. The sensation is a firm pull and pressure – enough of a pull to ensure the selected tissue will be cooled most efficiently. An hour or so later, depending on your needs, you’re done.
Can I return to normal activities after the procedure?
CoolSculpting is completely non-surgical, so typically you can return to normal activities immediately. Some patients experience redness, minor bruising, tingling, numbness or discomfort in the treated area, but this is temporary and will resolve completely. Often times, patients return to work after the session is over.
When will I see results?
You may start to see changes as quickly as three weeks after your treatment, and will experience the most dramatic results after two months. But your body is still flushing fat cells and will continue doing so for up to four to six months after treatment.
Are the results permanent?
During CoolSculpting, the treated fat cells are eliminated. As long as you maintain a healthy lifestyle, long-term results should remain stable.
How do I get started?
Call us today to set up your free consultation. We’ll see if you’re a good candidate for CoolSculpting and work with you to develop a treatment plan.
Frequently Asked Questions About Exilis Ultra
Who is the procedure right for?
The Exilis treatment is safe for patients of all ages who are showing signs of aging and who are 20-30 lbs. overweight or who want to improve those problem areas where exercise and diet have plateaued. It’s an option for those who desire aesthetic improvement without the cost and recovery time of surgery. It is effective for face, eyes, neck, arms, abdomen, thighs and buttocks.
What can I expect during the procedure?
The treatment requires no preparation or medication. The appointment will begin with taking pictures of the area/s to be treated. Our clinician will then prep the area to be treated. Most patients describe the process as a warm massage. Treatment time varies based on your customized plan and area to be treated. Immediately after your treatment you may return to your normal activities with absolutely no downtime, no pain, swelling or any discomfort.
How many treatments are needed?
Usually four to six sessions over the course of a few weeks, but that can vary. Our clinicians can give you a better idea of what customized treatment plan would be best for you.
What kind of results may I expect? How long do the results last?
While results vary, patients report one to four inches lost after the recommended treatment sessions. Patients have shown results to last while maintaining a healthy lifestyle which should include light to moderate exercise, a healthy diet and drinking plenty of water.
Frequently Asked Questions about Varicose Veins
Varicose veins are twisted, enlarged veins, often dark blue in color, which are near or raised above the surface of the skin. Varicose veins are often a symptom of an underlying condition called venous insufficiency.
In healthy veins, one way valves direct the flow of the venous blood is upward and inward. Blood is collected in the superficial small veins and flows into the larger veins. The blood eventually passes through valves into the deep veins and then centrally to the heart and lungs. When one or more of these valves fails to function correctly or leaks, some blood flows down the leg, in the reverse direction. The blood tends to overfill and distend the branches of the superficial veins under the skin.
Over time the veins stretch, bulge and become visible. These engorged or rope-like veins, are called varicose veins. The valves inside these veins no longer close, allowing blood to leak back down the leg causing more distension of the vein.
How do I know if I have varicose veins?
Early symptoms of varicose veins include:
- Pain in legs with a feeling of tiredness and heaviness in the lower legs
- Swelling of the ankle and lower leg
- Discolored, brownish skin near the ankle
- A rash or skin ulceration at the ankle or lower leg
- Visible enlarged veins
- Knotted, twisted veins tending to be deep bluish in color
- Skin surrounding the varicose vein may itch or burn
What factors can lead to varicose veins?
- Heredity – Varicose veins tend to run in families.
- Age – As we age, elastic fibers in all tissues deteriorate leading to dilated and tortuous blood vessels.
- Obesity – Excess weight increases the pressure on the vein valves and can lead to weakening.
- Hormones – Changes in hormone levels brought on by puberty, pregnancy, menopause, hormone replacement therapy and birth control pills.
- Pregnancy – Increased volume of blood in the body and increased pressures on the pelvic veins are all contributors.
- Gender – Primarily due to the production of progesterone, a female hormone.
- Occupation – Prolonged sitting during the job can lead to venous insufficiency.
- Lifestyle – Body building or heavy weight lifting may contribute due to strain on the groin and pelvis.
What happens if varicose veins are left untreated?
Left untreated, varicose veins can lead to swelling, increased pain, skin discoloration, and ulcerations of the lower legs. These ulcerations are difficult to treat and can become easily infected and painful.
Frequently Asked Questions about Spider Veins
Spider veins are red and purple blood vessels that occur in patches on the legs and face. Spider veins and varicose veins are not the same and one does not lead to the other. Whereas varicose veins are large, swollen and occur singularly on the legs, spider veins are delicate and tend to develop in clusters. Although spider veins do not produce symptoms, the feeder veins deeper in the skin may cause discomfort.
Spider veins do not pose a health threat. Though they can cause aching and discomfort, spider veins are primarily a cosmetic problem.
How do I know if I have spider veins?
Common symptoms associated with spider veins may include:
- Dull generalized aching
- Throbbing pain
- Night cramps
- Tiredness
- Burning tingling
- Heaviness in legs
- Complaints may worsen with menstruation and warmer weather
Relief of these symptoms may come with walking or elevating the legs. It’s important to remember that many people complain of no symptoms at all.
What factors contribute to spider veins?
- Heredity
- Occupations that involve prolonged standing
- Obesity
- Hormonal influences during pregnancy
- Use of oral contraceptives
- Post-menopausal hormone replacement
- Prolonged sitting with legs crossed
- History of blood clots
Other minor factors are: topical steroids, trauma or injury to the skin, and exposure to ultraviolet rays.
Insurance companies consider spider veins cosmetic, even if they are associated with pain. Spider Vein Therapy is not a benefit provided by insurance company contracts.
Frequently Asked Questions about Sclerotherapy
Sclerotherapy is a technique which involves the use of a very fine needle to inject a solution directly into the veins. The solution causes the lining of the vein to swell, eventually sealing off the blood vessel and preventing blood flow. Prior to treatment a medical history is taken.
Larger veins are usually treated first. After the skin is thoroughly cleansed with alcohol, a syringe with a tiny needle is used to inject a small amount of sclerosing (hardening agent) into the vein. The solution displaces the blood within the vein, causing it to blanch or turn white. The solution then causes the vessel to become irritated and swell shut, prohibiting the blood from re-entering the vein. When the needle is withdrawn, pressure is immediately applied to the area. The skin may be kneaded to help disperse the solution and reduce bruising. Each vein may require 1-5 injections and most disappear in two weeks to several months.
Am I a candidate for sclerotherapy?
As long as someone is not on any blood thinners and does not have an allergy to the sclerosing agent, she is a candidate who has spider veins or varicose veins.
How many treatments will I need?
The number of treatments depends on the size of the area to be treated. It is unrealistic to expect 100% clearance of spider veins or reticular veins. Usually after 1-3 treatments you will see a visible improvement – but this varies from patient to patient.
Is treatment covered by insurance?
Insurance companies consider spider veins cosmetic, even if they are associated with pain. Spider vein therapy is not a benefit provided by insurance company contracts.
Is sclerotherapy painful?
A very tiny needle is used to inject the solution into the vein. You may feel some mild stinging, burning, and/or an itching sensation after the sclerosing agent is injected into the vein.
How long will the treatment take?
Depending on the area to be treated, the procedure can take anywhere from 15-30 minutes. Generally a treatment does not last longer than 30 minutes.
When can I resume my normal activity?
You will be required to wear medical grade compression hose for 3-5 days. With the exception of weight lifting and jogging, you may resume your normal activities. You should avoid these types of activities for 5-7 days.
Will I need to take any pain medication?
You may experience an itching and burning sensation which should diminish by the next morning. Tylenol is usually sufficient to ease the pain.
Are there any complications?
You may experience bruising which can range from mild to large dark purple areas which may take several days to weeks to disappear. You may also notice a red streak or redness at the injection site- this is called phlebitis and can be treated with Tylenol and an ice pack. You may, after the procedure, get hemosiderin staining, a brownish discoloration of the skin along the vein that was injected. If you experience this, please avoid direct sunlight and use an SPF of 20. Hemosiderin staining can be treated with Intense Pulse Light (IPL) treatments which will lighten the discoloration. You may experience trapped blood which is old blood that is retained in the veins after the injection of the sclerosing agent. The area may feel hard and lumpy and may be tender to touch, and is usually associated with mild bruising. If this condition persists, it can easily be treated at the follow-up visit by removal of the old blood by needle prick.
What can I expect after the procedure?
Patients are usually advised to resume normal activity immediately, although vigorous activity is discouraged for 24 hours. You will be required to wear compression hose for 3-5 days.
Most patients experience no adverse effects; however some minor side effects have been reported. These might include slight blistering which occurs when small amounts of the solution seep into the surrounding area. Some patients experience staining which is a discoloration of the skin where the veins were injected. This may resolve in time or respond to bleaching agents or treated with Intense Pulsed Light treatments. Occasionally there are allergic reactions to the solution which are treated immediately with antihistamines and other medications.
In some cases, spider veins recur and new spider veins present themselves. When large veins are treated, wearing support hose is recommended to prevent their recurrence.
Frequently Asked Questions about Endovenous Laser Therapy (ELT)
ELT stands for Endovenous Laser Therapy, usually performed on the Great Saphenous Vein. A 940 diode laser system is used to deliver laser energy and heat to the Saphenous Vein, causing damage to and immediate closure of the vein.
What are the benefits of ELT?
- A simple procedure performed under local anesthetic
- Minimally invasive
- Very small risk of scarring and postoperative infection
- Less than one hour examination and treatment time
- Rapid recovery with reduced postoperative pain.
- Normal activities can be resumed immediately
- Excellent clinical and aesthetic results
What do I need to do prior to the procedure?
You will receive a prescription for an antibiotic and, if needed, a mild relaxant to be taken one hour before the procedure.
What can I expect during the procedure?
The procedure can last 45 minutes to 2 hours. You may find it relaxing to bring a book to read or music to listen to.
A limited ultrasound evaluation will be done to locate the vein on the leg. Your leg will then be washed with an antiseptic soap and covered with sterile drapes. It will be important for you not to touch the drapes once applied.
The physician will use a tiny needle to inject a numbing solution just below your knee. Once numb, a needle will be inserted to access the vein. A tiny catheter will be placed in the vein. The position of the catheter will be verified with ultrasound and then the laser fiber will be inserted through the catheter. The area surrounding the laser fiber will then be anesthetized. This involves multiple injections of a saline solution which contains an anesthetic.
The laser procedure will begin when the area is sufficiently anesthetized. You will be required to wear special glasses to protect your eyes although you will not see the laser light. As the laser is fired you will hear a series of beeps. If you feel a hot or burning sensation, let the physician know and more anesthetic will be given in the area that is painful. The actual laser treatment only takes several minutes. After the laser fiber is removed, a small amount of pressure will be applied, the drapes will be removed and your leg will be cleaned.
The treated leg will have absorbent pads, compression stockings and ace bandages applied. This dressing will need to remain on for 72 hours. Once the dressing is removed, you may shower and apply the compression hose. These need to be worn daily until your follow-up appointment; they may be taken off to shower and at bedtime.
What can I expect after the procedure?
Most patients describe a dull ache or tugging sensation in the thigh of the treated leg. You may also experience some bruising in the thigh. You may receive an anti-inflammatory. A follow-up appointment is required in one week. You may resume light walking immediately; however, strenuous activity such as jogging and weight lifting cannot be resumed for at least two weeks.
Frequently Asked Questions about Ambulatory Phlebectomy
What is the Ambulatory Phlebectomy procedure?
Ambulatory phlebectomy micro-extraction is a procedure which allows for the removal of large surface varicosities through very small incisions that frequently need no stitches. Skin incisions or needle punctures as small as one millimeter are used to extract veins with a phlebectomy hook. A section of the vein is inserted into a micro-incision in the leg. A section of the vein is hooked and then removed through the incision.
With this procedure an ace bandage needs to be worn for 24 hours. Then a medical grade compression stocking should be worn for 1 week.
What are the benefits of Ambulatory Phlebectomy?
- Walk in – walk out
- Office procedure
- Minimally invasive – pinholes only
- Local anesthesia
- No stitches and scars
- No down-time
- Excellent cosmetic results
What can I expect after the procedure?
Most patients are not at all uncomfortable and need no pain medication. Patients may stand, walk and return to work on the day following surgery. For any discomfort, take the prescribed medication. You may also take Tylenol for discomfort. Strenuous activity is limited for two weeks.
Gift Card Information
Frequently Asked Questions About Regular and Promotional Holiday Gift Cards!
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