The information presented in this section is a general guide and is not meant to take the place of a consultation with a physician. If you have specific questions regarding your health and/or the proper treatments for you please call 212-675-4244 to schedule a consultation.
Questions and Answers: Products;Cosmetic and Corrective Services: Laser Hair Removal, Collagen Treatment, Botox, Sclerotherapy of Spider Veins, Laser Vein Treatment, Chemical Peels, Fat Transfer, Photo Facial Rejuvenation; Physician's Services.
Products Q&A
1 Do I need to use a cleanser if I don't wear makeup?
Yes. We feel a healthy complexion depends on effective daily cleansing.
2 What is the purpose of a toner?
A toner may serve several purposes. A toner will restore the pH balance of the skin thereby preparing it to receive treatment products with a minimum of irritation. A toner will also remove the last traces of dirt and makeup a cleanser has left behind. Toners can also be great hydrators adding another level of moisturization.
3 How is one moisturizer different from another?
Different skins have different needs. Our moisturizers are formulated to address those needs. We offer moisturizers to hydrate, protect, nourish and soften the skin; they are geared to treat all the different skin types.
4 What kind of mask should I use and how often?
The type of mask you use will depend on your skin type. Typically an oily skin will benefit from a clay mask, a dry skin from a hydrating mask etc. It is fine to use two different types of masks to treat a combination skin, say a hydrating mask on dry cheeks and a clay mask on an oily T-zone. Generally speaking a mask is used one to two times per week.
5 What are antioxidants and why are they important?
Antioxidants are a group of enzymes, minerals and vitamins like A, C, and E that neutralize oxidizing agents which destroy collagen and lead to premature aging. These oxidizing agents are referred to as free radicals and they can wreak havoc on your skin by attacking cell membranes and body tissues. A complex of various antioxidants can significantly retard the damage caused by free radicals and allow you to look younger longer.
6 How do fruit acids like Alpha Hydroxy Acid work?
Fruit acids gently exfoliate the skin by ungluing layers of dead darkened cells that can accumulate on the surface of the skin causing a dull uneven tone. By lifting these cells, AHA's will smooth out the surface of the skin and give the skin a more youthful appearance. This exfoliation can also facilitate the deeper penetration of skincare preparations into the skin.
7 Is it important that all the products I use on my face be from the same line?
It is perfectly fine to use products from different lines that you have found to be effective. Keep in mind however that very often products in one line are formulated to work synergistically, and using them together will yield the greatest benefits and results.
9 Why do I need sunscreen in the winter?
The sun never takes a vacation. We are exposed to harmful rays whenever we step outside or are near a window during daylight hours. In fact there are times during the winter when you are highly susceptible such as when the ground is covered with snow which reflects the sun's rays, giving you a double dose of exposure. So don't skimp on the sunscreen.
10 How important is sunscreen to a fading regimen?
No fading regimen is complete without a daily sunscreen no lower than SPF15. We recommend SPF 30 or higher with UVA and UVB protection. By stimulating melanin activity, the sun will darken all that you are trying to lighten; also, there may be components of a fading regimen which cause increased sensitivity to the sun therefore a protective barrier is imperative.
Cosmetic and Corrective Services Q & A
1. How much time will I have to take off from work if I have liposculpture?
Most patients in an office job will need one to three days off before resuming a full to half day back at work. This time is needed mostly to cope with the post-operative care; pain and discomfort is minimal. Patients having more physically demanding jobs may not be able to resume work for seven days. Limited exercise can be resumed by one week and full exercise by two weeks.
2. Will I need assistance at home during my recovery with tumescent liposculpture?
I recommend that for the first twenty-four hours following the procedure to have someone with you to help with dressing changes and chores.
3. How soon will I see results from my liposculpture?
Maximal results are seen at six months however, improvement is noticed at one month especially in one's clothing. A 60-70% visible improvement is obtained in most cases.
Laser Hair Removal Q & A
1. How many treatments will be needed to remove my unwanted hair?
The number of treatments needed will vary according to the density and coarseness of the hair however, three to six treatments may be required in succession..
2. Will my hair regrow?
In most cases hair will regrow over several months however the hair is often finer and less coarse. Re-treatment will be needed since the laser's reduction of hair growth may not be permanent.
3. What areas can hair be removed with the laser?
Common areas treated include chin, bikini, underarms, legs, ears, and beard.
4. Will my insurance company pay for my hair removal by laser?
No, insurance companies generally view laser hair removal as elective, not medically necessary or cosmetic.
Collagen Treatment Q & A
1. What type of scar and wrinkles will collagen help?
Depressed or dimpled scars from acne or chickenpox as well as facial laugh lines around the cheek, and chin. Lips can be made fuller to enhance appearance as well as to prevent lip stick from bleeding.
2. How long does my improvement last?
Generally maximum improvement remains for three months and by the sixth month collagen replacement will be needed again.
3. How is collagen administered and how does it work?
Collagen is found in all parts of the body and it works in the skin to add height, elasticity, and fullness. In scars, wrinkles, or hereditary conditions collagen is lost or inadequate. By placing small amounts of collagen with local anesthetic via injections uisng a tiny needle, scars and wrinkles will be diminished.
Botox Q & A
1. Which of my frown lines can Botox help?
Facial expression muscles around the eyes, brow and forehead are commonly treated. This helps to keep the skin relaxed and less wrinkled.
2. Can Botox reduce my sweating?
Botox can be used to reduce sweating under the arms, palms, and soles. Improvement can last up to six months.
3. Will my frown lines have to be retreated?
Re-treatment is necessary after three to four months.
4. Can I have an allergic reaction to Botox?
Thus far, no allergic reaction to Botox has occurred.
5. Will I be able to return to work immediately after Botox is given?
Yes, following injection of Botox with a tiny needle you can resume most activity immediately. There is slight risk of bruising.
6. Will my insurance pay for Botox?
No, insurances consider Botox use for wrinkles a cosmetic and medically unnecessary treatment.
Sclerotherapy of Spider Veins Q & A
1. How does slcerotherapy work?
Sclerotherapy works by injection of a solution of a detergent-like substance into the veins which leads to scarring and closure of the inside of the vein.
2. Does sclerotherapy require more than one treatment?
Treatment of small spider veins rarely requires more than two treatments; large spider and varicose veins may need up to three treatments.
3. Can I resume my normal activity after treatment?
Sclerotherapy requires wearing of compression stocking or dressing for at least twenty-four hours and avoidance of leg exercises for three days. You are encouraged to walk following treatment.
4. How can I avoid getting more spider veins?
By avoiding prolonged standing, pregnancy, estrogen hormones and wearing compression/support stockings you can reduce your risk of developing more spider veins.
Laser Vein Treatment Q & A
1. How can I tell if I am a candidate for laser vein treatment?
Spider veins on the face or body up to 2mm in diameter can be sucessfully treated with laser.
2. Does the laser hurt?
Numbing with a topical anesthetic and cooling with ice lead to minimal discomfort.
3. How many treatments are required?
One to two treatments are required for a given vein.
Chemical peels Q & A
1. What skin problems can superficial chemical peels help?
Chemical peels can aid in reducing fine lines/wrinkles due to aging, eliminate sun damaged, brown discolorations due to sun-exposure or poor healing, reduce blemishes/pimples and smooth rough dull skin.
2. Can I have a peel and go back to work the same day?
Yes, superficial peels have no down time but you must be out of the sun before and after the treatment and use a sunscreen.
3. How many peels will it take before I see results?
For pimple and wrinkle problems, three to six peels are necessary. For discoloartion, six to twelve treatments may be needed.
4. How long will my results last?
Chemical peel results require at home maintenance and periodic re-application of the peel in office to maintain the improvement.
Fat Transfer Q & A
1. How can fat transfer help my unwanted lines, scars, and aging?
Deeper lines/wrinkles, scars. and sagging skin from aging often results from loss of fat beneath the skin. Lines, scars and signs of aging are treated by removing unwanted fat from sites around the body such as the belly, hips, thighs or waist and transferring it to areas where needed. This is all done with local anesthesia and small injection devices.
2. How long will the improvement last?
In most instances, a significant amount of the transferred fat will survive for years. To obtain optimal improvement, additional corrective transfers may be needed three months following the initial treatment.
3. What areas can be treated with fat transfer?
Sagging cheeks, thin lips, backs of hands, cheek lines and depressed scars.
Photo-Facial Rejuvenation Q&A
1. Will I be able to go back to work after my treatment?
Yes, you will be able to return to work immediatley without visible signs of treatment.
2. How many treatments will be needed?
Depending on the severity of the problem, six treatments in succession and then periodic month or bimonthly treatment to maintain the improvement.
3. How does this treatment work?
By using laser or light energy, collagen production is stimulated and this can reduce the appearance of fine lines and scars. In addition, the laser can be used to destroy spider veins, redness and brownish discoloration. Any skin color and type can benefit from lalser rejuvenation.
Physician Services Q & A
1. What can be done for my pimples or blemishes?
Pimples result from hereditary and hormonal influences that lead to oil being trapped in the oil pore by dead skin cells. This build-up of oil allows overgrowth of acne promoting bacteria. The resulting blackheads, whiteheads, and red bumps can be alleviated by use of topical and oral antribiotics as well as gentle exfoliation.
2. What is the cause of my eczema and how can I control it?
Eczema appears to be an inherited disorder brought on by inflammation producing chemicals released from white cells in the skin. This produces redness, itching and premature death of skin cells. This response can be controlled by use of anti-hitsamines and topical anti-inflmammatory creams along with special attention to underlying dry and sensitive skin found in most eczema patients.
3. What treatments are available for my psoriasis?
Topical medications ranging from steroids to vitamin D and A derived drugs are helpful in many psoriasis patients. Other treatments used in patients who do not respond to topical treatment included ultraviolet light, oral vitamin A derived drugs, and immunosuppressive and immuno-modulating drugs. Laser is now available for localized psoriasis.
4. What causes warts and how are they treated?
Warts are due to a large family of infectious viruses known as human papilloma viruses (HPV). Different strains of this family a predilection for certain areas of the skin and mucous membranes. Treatments range from application of topical chemicals and creams to physical destruction with lasers or electrocautery.
5. What parts of the skin gets fungal infections and how are they treated?
Fungal infections are due to germs in the mold family and they commonly infect the warm moist folds of the skin as well as hair and nails. Fungi are commonly found in soil and water and can be directly passed person-to-person or indirectly via contaminated surfaces and inanimate objects. Fungal infections respond to oral and topical anti-fungal medications.
6. Why do I get boils?
Boils or abscesses are due to overgrowth of specific bacteria in cuts, wounds, scratches, bites or within the pores. The responsible germ is acquired from your own skin's normal bacteria or from other persons' skin or contaminated surfaces such as showers. In most instances, this infection as well as impetigo and folliculitis require antibiotics best obtained through the dermatologist.
7. Dry or ashy skin results from poor oil prodcution by your skin's oil producing glands. Alternatively, excessive removal of your skin's natural oil by prolonged and frequent use of drying soaps and water can lead to dry skin. Limiting showers to no more than five to seven minutes along with use of non-drying soaps followed by use of hydrating lotion, creams and water-attracting humectants will alleviate dry skin. In the wintertime this can mean showering every other day or moisturizing twice a day.
8. What can I do if my skin breaks out on contact with certian chemicals and metals?
Your skin has developed a contact allergy to the offending agent. When identified the treatment includes avoidance of the causative agent and treatment of the skin's irritation with anti-inflammatory creams and anti-histamines. Common allergens include nickel, fragrances, hair dyes, rubber/latex, and soaps. Occasionally, patch testing of the skin to various chemicals may be required to determine the cause however the history of recently introduced substances usually reveals the responsible chemical.
9. Why am I losing my hair?
Hair loss can occur in men and women. The leading causes are aging, poor hair grooming, heredity, hormonal factors and disease of the hair or general health issues. By examining the scalp and hair, dermatologists can often determine the cause without performing tests. Occasionally a blood test and taking a skin sample may be necessary. Hair loss is best treated by early diagnosis and treatment. Treatments are according to the underlying problem and in most instances the hair loss is reversible.