As we age through the years, things will begin to change that create issues that are more annoying than critical. Clients are often thrilled to find that we have simple fixes for some of these nuisances.
Do you notice you are constantly wiping the corners of your mouth when you talk because they are always wet? Do you even notice the skin gets pink because it is constantly damp? Do you guys notice that you can never quite shave the corners of the mouth because the skin is folded in this area? These may be unusual questions for a Cosmetic Nurse to ask. However, there are dozens of clients who have sought our services when they learn there is a very simple cure for this problem.
First, we have to understand the aging face. Before we even realize there are changes to our face, the changes have been happening. Faces will lose not only fat, but also muscle tone and bone over the years. The combination of these losses will cause a shift downward of the cheek area causing a fold at the corner of the mouth. Once the end of the lip area has lost its support, saliva may accumulate and even exit the mouth. Think of playing in a kiddie pool. If you step on the side of the inflatable pool, water will escape.
The cure is simple and can be performed in about ten minutes. Juvederm is an injectable filler that is designed to repair lost volume in the face. When clients are having issues with this type of drooling, some volume will need to be added to the area where the crease is noticed. This will be very conservative and not look like the face has been altered. Think of it as taking the foot off the side of the kiddie pool.
When a client is interested in this treatment, we will make a no charge consultation appointment to discuss health history, allergies, etc. Once cleared for treatment, a numbing cream will be topically applied to the area for about 15 minutes to make the procedure comfortable. Once numb, the area will be cleansed and prepped. A small amount of Juvederm will be placed beneath the skin at the corner of the mouth and massaged to make sure it is smooth. An ice pack will be applied to help prevent any bruising. Clients are asked to avoid exercise and alcohol for 24 hours and are asked to visit again in two weeks to make sure the drooling issue has been resolved.
Clients who are concerned with this issue have been referred to us from medical doctors and dentists. Surprisingly, many are told that the only way to correct this issue is with a full facelift. Imagine their surprise and delight to discover that there is such a simple solution.
Another issue that many encounter is difficulty seeing because the eyebrows are heavier. At some point, this problem may get severe enough for insurance to cover a surgical intervention, but what about the years that you are waiting for the problem to get to that degree of severity. We have great news!
Botox is a medication that is used for treating migraine headaches, underarm sweating, crossed eyes, neck spasms, and has even proved to be helpful in treating bladder cancers. Cosmetically, we have used it for over 20 years to help with frown lines and crow’s feet. Clients who are not seeking “beauty” treatments, but rather quality of life treatments have started finding us to use a small dose of Botox to lift the eyes to improve their vision. Placing a bit of Botox in the eyebrow section of the forehead can open the eyes a few millimeters, but it can feel like the “weight of the world” has been lifted off the eyelids.
When seeing a client for this treatment, we will, again, take a thorough health history and ensure that you are a good candidate for treatment. A tiny needle is used to place the Botox beneath the skin in the eyebrow area. You will be asked not to apply direct pressure in the area for a couple of days. In the next three to seven days, the Botox will make the muscles in the area relax upward very slightly and you will notice “the shades” have been lifted a bit. My husband will actually ask me to do this for him every few months. He isn’t concerned about the appearance of his eyes, but he loves that he can see better when reading.
If you are troubled by either of these issues, please give us a call. We are happy to offer a free consultation and evaluate your needs. We are located behind Lowes on Scenic Highway at 1569 Janmar Road, Suite B, Snellville, 30078.
You may schedule your appointment at 770-935-FACE (3223) or online at www.aboutfaceskin.com. We look forward to meeting you!
