Many of our patients are concerned about the appearance and health of the skin around their eyes. The eyes are the first thing that others often notice about us, and can influence how people perceive us. As we age, our skin begins to lose its elasticity, and facial features begin to change. Dark circles often appear around the eyes. It is common to develop fine lines and wrinkles on the skin and a decrease in the number of eyelashes. The See Clearly Vision doctors in Arlington and Tyson’s Corner can offer a variety of non-surgical treatment options to give you a more youthful, energetic appearance!
What Causes Wrinkles?
Most people don’t realize that wrinkles occur because of two basic but very different reasons:
Dynamic wrinkles form over time when muscles contract, usually with smiling or frowning. Some examples are wrinkles between the eyelids or “crow’s feet” at the outer corners of the eyes. Dynamic wrinkles are best treated with BOTOX® Cosmetic.
Static wrinkles are lines or depressions that exist even when there is no muscle action or pull on the skin. They are generally caused by the effects of aging and sun exposure on the skin. Static wrinkles are best treated with substances that fill out the problem lines. These substances, such as JUVÉDERM®, are known as “dermal fillers” or “gel fillers”.
Cosmetic products and lash enhancers may also help to reduce the effects of aging and enhance your appearance. Our doctors use Latisse® as a medicated lash enhancer.
BOTOX
BOTOX® Cosmetic can have a dramatic effect on dynamic wrinkles associated with your facial expressions. These include frown lines between the eyebrows, horizontal lines on the forehead, and “crow’s feet” around the eyes. Patients usually see a remarkable improvement in these wrinkle lines shortly after treatment with BOTOX® Cosmetic.
What is Botox?
BOTOX® is a purified protein isolated from a microorganism, in a similar process to many antibiotics. It has been a great option used to treat migraine headaches for many years. BOTOX® Cosmetic is a popular injectable drug that became FDA approved nearly twenty years ago. It has been used safely on millions of patients. BOTOX® Cosmetic can reduce or get rid of facial fine lines and wrinkles, or crow’s feet lines near the eyes.
How Does Botox Work?
Dynamic facial wrinkles develop over time from the constant contraction of facial muscles. BOTOX® relaxes those muscles by blocking the nerve impulses that cause them to contract. Unlike fillers, BOTOX® doesn’t fill in facial lines.
How Long Does Botox® Treatment Last?
The first time you have injections, they last about 3-4 months. If you get them on a regular basis, the frequency that you need to get injections decreases.
How Can I Find Out if BOTOX® Cosmetic Will Help Me?
The best way to find out if you are a good candidate for BOTOX® treatment is to schedule an evaluation at one of our See Clearly Vision offices. Our doctors will discuss your goals with you and determine whether BOTOX® Cosmetic is a good fit for you.
DERMAL FILLERS
With the passage of time, our facial skin tends to lose volume and elasticity. The skin doesn’t look as tight, and static lines and wrinkles appear. While dynamic wrinkles are best treated with BOTOX®, static lines and wrinkles are best treated with substances called fillers.
What is a Filler?
Dermal fillers are synthetic materials that are injected into the face to increase lip, cheek, or chin volume. Products such as JUVÉDERM® XC work by “plumping up” the skin and filling in wrinkles. In some cases, a filler is used to treat dark circles beneath the eyes.
What is JUVÉDERM?
JUVÉDERM® XC is a dermal gel filler. JUVEDERM ® XC is manufactured from a proprietary type of hyaluronic acid known to be both biocompatible and biodegradable. Hyaluronic acid is a natural substance in the skin that keeps moisture and increases fullness. As we age, we lose hyaluronic acid from the skin, resulting in deflation. Injecting Juvederm can increase fullness and inflate the skin with a very low risk of an allergic reaction. Also, it may stimulate the body’s natural production of hyaluronic acid. JUVÉDERM® XC may be used to rejuvenate many problem areas. These include “smile lines” and vertical lip lines that convey the unwanted look of frowning, sadness, or aging. Results can last up to a year.
LATISSE
Most people interested in their appearance want to have big, bright beautiful eyes. Your eyelashes play a big part in making your eyes more visible. Your doctors at See Clearly Vision are excited to offer LATISSE®! LATISSE® is an FDA approved treatment that can help you grow fuller, longer lashes! LATISSE® is a solution used on the upper eyelid margins or the base of the eyelashes. Our doctors at See Clearly Vision are trained in the examination and treatment of the delicate areas around your eyes. They will ensure that your LATISSE® treatments around your eyelids and lashes are safe and do not harm your eyes.
Looking for a cosmetic or aesthetic treatment to rejuvenate your appearance? Schedule an appointment at See Clearly Vision in Arlington or Tyson’s Corner to explore our cosmetic services today!
