Why You Shouldn't Trust Just Anyone to Administer Your Cosmetic Injectables If you long for a younger-looking appearance, cosmetic injectables have a lot to offer. They smooth wrinkles and fine lines, fill in shallows, and add desired plumpness without the need for anesthesia, incisions, or downtime. Treatments like Botox ® and dermal fillers top the cosmetic treatment charts in popularity, with millions performed each year in the United States. And while they’re very effective and safe in the right hands, you don’t want to trust your face to just anyone. At our offices in the Upper East Side of Manhattan, and Rye, New York, Robert Schwarcz, MD , and his team offer a range of nonsurgical procedures , including injectables, to help you look your best. How cosmetic injectables work Neuromodulators like Botox and Dysport® contain a toxin that temporarily paralyzes muscles in the treatment area to do away with common aging-related complaints like crow’s feet and frown lines caused by making facial expressions. Results appear gradually, typically starting within a week, and you can expect your results to last for up to 3-4 months . Dermal fillers — such as Restylane-L ®, Eyelight ®, and Lyft ® — instantly add plumpness to shallow or thin areas of skin, like your temples, cheeks, and lips. Your filler results can last for 6-12 months . Don’t take chances with your cosmetic injectables It can be tempting to choose the cheapest available option for your cosmetic injectable treatment, but trusting just anyone can have dire consequences. Poor technique and questionable products can harm your health and appearance, bringing complications like: Allergic reactions from non-sterile substances Unnatural looking results Excessive swelling Embolism, which can lead to blindness Filler migration, where they move out of place Lumps and bumps Skin cell death In particular, you should avoid black market and “do it yourself” injectables, which are especially likely to contain risky ingredients and cause harm. What to expect with cosmetic injectables in our office Dr. Schwarcz is a board-certified plastic surgeon with extensive training and experience. He and his expert team are known for providing natural-looking results, based on his belief that cosmetic care should help you look rejuvenated versus looking as though you had work done. He prizes your health and well-being and honestly discusses any risks involved. Our team can also recommend your ideal cosmetic treatment based on your health needs and preferences. For example, you don’t have to choose between Botox and fillers; a combination treatment can deliver amazing results. Each treatment begins with an exam and thorough consultation where you can ask questions and discuss your medical history and goals. Before your injections, you can request a topical anesthetic or ice pack to minimize discomfort. Any side effects, such as redness near the injection site, tend to be mild and temporary. Dr. Schwarcz maintains a safe, sterile, and comfortable environment, where you can feel confident in your care. We may recommend a subtle injectable treatment the first time around so you can see how it affects you and whether you’d like to do more. To learn more about safe cosmetic injectables or to get started on your nonsurgical rejuvenated look, book an appointment online with Dr. Schwarcz today or call the office convenient to you. REQUEST AN APPOINTMENT

My Drooping Eyelids Are Affecting My Eyesight: Can You Help? Some 11.5% of people experience eyelid drooping at some point. And for many, it’s more than a cosmetic concern. When your eyelids sag below an ideal place, they can limit your field of vision. And when you can’t see fully or comfortably, your quality of life can suffer, too. Thankfully, there’s a solution. At our offices in Scarsdale and the Upper East Side of Manhattan, New York, board-certified oculofacial plastic surgeon Robert M. Schwarcz, MD , provides eyelid blepharoplasty to restore a more youthful look and reduce related complications such as affected eyesight. What causes drooping eyelids A range of factors can lead to or worsen eyelid drooping, which often involves weakness in the muscles that control your eyelids or nerves that aren’t functioning quite right. Potential contributors to sagging eyelids include: Aging Eye surgery complications Injury to your eyelid Poorly placed neurotoxin injections Over-stretching your eyelid ligaments or muscles You can also experience a drop in your eyelids due to a medical condition, such as third nerve palsy, muscular dystrophy, Horner syndrome, or myasthenia gravis. How blepharoplasty can help Blepharoplasty, also known as an eyelid lift, is a surgical procedure that restores a healthier, more natural-looking appearance in your eyelids. The two types include: Upper eyelid blepharoplasty, which involves an incision in the crease of your upper eyelid to remove excess fat and skin and reshape surrounding muscle Lower eyelid blepharoplasty, in which an incision inside or on the outside of your lower eyelid allows for the removal of excess skin and fat In both cases, Dr. Schwarcz takes special care to place the surgical cuts strategically to minimize any visible scarring. Recovery tends to take about 1-3 weeks , after which you can enjoy fuller vision. To keep you comfortable as you heal, our team may recommend gently applying cold compresses, lubricating your eyes with a provided ointment, and taking approved over-the-counter pain medication, such as acetaminophen. Ideal candidates for blepharoplasty You may be a strong candidate for an eyelid lift surgery if you’ve noticed puffy eyelids, you have tired-looking eyes, or have experienced vision problems because of the droopiness. You should be at least 18 years old, in generally good health, and have realistic expectations of the surgery’s results. To learn more about treatment for drooping eyelids or to find out if blepharoplasty is right for you, call one of our offices to book an appointment with Dr. Schwarcz today. You can also request an appointment through this website using our online scheduling tool. REQUEST AN APPOINTMENT

Treat Your Excessive Sweating with Botox An estimated 2.8 percent of the American population, or about 8 million people, suffer from a condition called hyperhidrosis. These people sweat heavily from their armpits, soles of the feet, or palms of their hands. This sweating occurs regardless of the weather or the person’s emotional state. Hyperhidrosis or excessive sweating can be embarrassing by producing visible dampness and sweat odors through clothing. It can also damage clothes, and when present in the feet it can produce an environment conducive to athlete’s foot and other infections. Treatment for hyperhidrosis usually involves antiperspirants and medication, with surgery as a last resort. However, there’s a non-surgical treatment your cosmetic surgeon can help you with. Botox has recently been approved by the FDA as a treatment for hyperhidrosis in the armpits, and many doctors use it to treat Blepharospasm and any involuntary twitching as well. In addition, Botox is commonly used on the neck and face. How Botox Controls Hyperhidrosis Botox is primarily known as an anti-wrinkle treatment . It works by temporarily paralyzing the nerves in the affected area. In the case of hyperhidrosis, Botox is injected to block the nerves that send signals to the sweat glands. Botox injections in areas commonly affected by hyperhidrosis, such as the hands, armpits, and groin, is a relatively simple procedure that should not be painful. The injections do not need to penetrate deeply, so a small needle is all that is needed, minimizing discomfort. Using Botox on the feet is somewhat more difficult because the skin of the feet is thicker than the armpits or hands. A larger needle and some form of anesthesia, such as a nerve block, may be required. Effects of Botox Injections for Hyperhidrosis You should see immediate results from your Botox injections. There should be no recovery or downtime necessary. The effects of the injection should last approximately eight months. However, that may vary depending on your own body chemistry and the area to be treated. Your cosmetic plastic surgeon will help you assess how well the injections are working for you and create a schedule of injections to keep you sweat-free. REQUEST AN APPOINTMENT

Understanding the Different Types of Skin Cancer Your skin is your largest organ and the organ most vulnerable to cancer, especially if you spend time in the sun without protection, if you have light skin and eyes, or if skin cancer runs in your family. Every day in the United States alone, 9,500 people are diagnosed with a type of skin cancer , meaning that if you have it, you’re far from alone. Thankfully, even the most aggressive form is typically curable with early detection and treatment. Board-certified cosmetic surgeon Robert M. Schwarcz, MD , is pleased to provide such treatment, including Mohs surgery . Read on to learn about the three most common skin cancer types and how Dr. Schwarcz and his team can help. Basal cell carcinoma More people are diagnosed with basal cell carcinoma than any other form of skin cancer. In fact, 3.6 million people in the U.S. learn they have it each year. It derives from uncontrolled, abnormal growth of basal cells within your skin and tends to grow slowly without spreading to other tissues in your body. During this growth, it destroys skin tissue in its path, leading to raised red or pink bumps that are often flaky. These symptoms typically appear on areas of your skin that have been repeatedly exposed to UV rays, such as your arms, ears, face, and legs. Squamous cell carcinoma Rays from the sun also play a role in squamous cell carcinoma, but typically only in people who have a compromised immune system. Unlike basal cell skin cancer, this form is highly aggressive and more likely to spread to your lymph nodes or organs without treatment. The most common sign is a rough growth on your skin, known as actinic keratosis, which progresses into a crusty-edged, inflamed ulcer. Melanoma Melanoma only accounts for about 1% of skin cancer cases , but it results in the most skin cancer-related deaths. Highly invasive and aggressive, melanoma starts out as a mole caused by sun exposure and can rapidly spread to your blood and lymphatic system. Genetics may also play a role in whether you develop it. The melanoma mole may appear asymmetrical, have an irregular border, and change colors. It can also appear anywhere on your body, even under your fingernails or in your eye. Treatment for skin cancer Early diagnosis is important when you have skin cancer, particularly when you have melanoma. The sooner you receive needed treatment, the better your outcome will be. Treatment usually involves removal of cancerous cells. Dr. Schwarcz can also remove precancerous lesions , preventing the disease on that area of skin. Dr. Schwarcz has extensive experience in Mohs surgery. This specialized way of removing skin cancer cells — guided with detailed mapping and a microscopic exam of your skin — best protects surrounding tissue and leads to minimal scarring. Mohs surgery is considered the most effective and precise skin cancer treatment, resulting in a 99% success rate . For more advanced and serious skin cancers, such as later stage melanoma, you may also need radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, or immunotherapy. If you’re concerned about skin cancer or precancer, call our office or request a consultation using our online scheduling tool to book an appointment with Dr. Schwarcz. REQUEST AN APPOINTMENT

Treatment Options for Under Eye Dark Circles Dark circles under the eyes are increasingly common. Both men and women alike seek cosmetic treatments for their dark circles with a cosmetic plastic surgeon. Dr. Robert Schwarcz is a New York oculoplastic facial surgeon and board-certified cosmetic surgeon who regularly treats patients without the need for surgery for dark circles under the eyes. Of course, with surgery, results are more permanent. Click here to learn about cosmetic surgical procedures available to you . While without surgery, there is no recovery or downtime. How To Choose the Right Treatment Option For Your Dark Circles Facial Dermal Fillers Facial fillers can eliminate the darkness of under eye circles while filling in lost volume. Restylane is a specific and popular facial dermal filler used to eliminate and treat under eye dark circles and can fill in the hollow crevices beneath the eyes. Chemical Peels When the discoloration and darkness under the eyes are caused by sun exposure or genetics, the treatment may include a chemical peel . The peel can vary in intensity and strength but because of the delicate nature of the skin beneath the eyes, your plastic surgeon may recommend a mild chemical peel. The World of Laser Treatment Our practice offers cosmetic procedures utilizing the following lasers: The Clear and Brilliant Laser, Intense Pulsed Light Laser, the ClearLift Laser Skin Resurfacing Laser, and the Total FX C02 Laser. The benefits of the Intense Pulsed Light laser include lightening dark spots on the skin, broken blood vessels and Rosacea. The Total FX C02 Laser is a skin resurfacing procedure similar to a chemical peel , with different levels of intensity requiring anesthetics. The ClearLift laser treats fine lines, wrinkles, redness, age spots and unwanted veins . The Clear and Brilliant laser works to treat the early signs of aging. REQUEST AN APPOINTMENT

Tear Duct Reconstruction Tear duct surgery may be warranted when the tear ducts are blocked causing peripheral vision or issues with the eye such as excessive tearing. Tear duct reconstuction surgery may be required at that point to remove the blockage in the ducts. Various techniques exist to allow for alternative drainage. Oculoplastic facial surgeon Dr. Schwarcz performs dacryocystorhinostomy or DCR via surgical incisions to create a new route for drainage to occur. If you or a loved one is struggling with tear duct issues and want to explore your options and solutions, contact our offices to schedule your consultation. Tear duct repair can bring the necessary comfort back to your eyes. REQUEST AN APPOINTMENT

Droopy Eyelids and Revisional Eyelid Ptosis Surgery When droopy eyelids are caused by unsatisfactory results from a previous surgery, the patient can opt to undergo revisional ptosis reconstructive surgery . To tighten or move the levator muscle of the orbit, an oculoplastic surgeon can lift the upper eyelid. Depending on the condition’s severity and patient’s surgical history, the success rate of this procedure varies. However, if an experienced oculofacial plastic surgeon conducts a revisional ptosis surgery, the surgeon’s extensive background can improve the patient’s chances of a favorable outcome even with the presence of scar tissue. Dr. Robert Schwarcz is a board-certified oculoplastic surgeon who has performed numerous eyelid surgeries. He is a facial surgeon who has the ability to correct droopy eyelids caused by a brow lift, previous blepharoplasty , or canthoplasty. During the consultation, Dr. Schwarcz will recommend the best treatment option depending on the patient’s facial structure, concerns and goals. Revisional Eyelid Ptosis Candidates Scar tissue or other complications from a prior eyelid surgery can contribute to the complexity of a revisional ptosis procedure. However, patients with these issues may still be candidates for corrective surgery. Additionally, the surgical area after an eyelid surgery often takes 3 months to 6 months. As the healing progresses, some problems may resolve themselves. Therefore, patients should wait until they have fully recovered before consulting with an oculoplastic surgeon. Revisional Ptosis Surgery In order to repair the flaws created by a previous procedure, cosmetic surgeons utilizes a specialized revisional technique for the eyelids. This type of surgery is performed as an outpatient procedure in Dr. Schwarcz’s New York offices. Before starting the surgery, the patient is given local anesthesia. When the operation is finished, the patient can look forward to symmetrical, youthful eyelids. Revisional Ptosis Recovery Period After the procedure is completed, the patient may experience bruising, mild discomfort and swelling. The patient must keep the incision site clean at all times per the surgeon’s instructions. For the first few weeks, superficial healing will occur. However, the total recovery time takes up to several months. An Eyelid Specialist The results of a cosmetic eyelid surgery should look natural and preserve the eyelids’ function. Individuals who have an eyelid procedure performed by an inexperienced surgeon are at a higher risk of experiencing unwanted results such as an unnatural appearance, dry eyes. eyelid damage, visual problems and other issues. As a board-certified oculoplastic surgeon with a strong background in ophthalmology, reconstructive facial surgery and revisional eyelid surgery, Dr. Schwarcz has the experience to produce optimal results for his patients who suffer from droopy eyelids . REQUEST AN APPOINTMENT

Can Moles Cause a Health Risk? By age 20, it’s completely normal to have 10-40 moles on your skin. And in most cases, moles are harmless. Some moles, however, stem from skin cancer, the most common form of cancer in the United States. At our offices in Scarsdale and the Upper East Side of Manhattan, New York, board-certified cosmetic surgeon Robert M. Schwarcz, MD , performs mole removal surgery to help ensure the health of your skin and body. In this blog, we delve into moles, including related health issues and options for removal. Health risks related to moles If you have more than 50 moles or several large ones , you may hold a heightened risk of melanoma. While melanoma is the rarest form of skin cancer, it’s also the most lethal. Having more than 50 moles might also be linked with your likelihood of breast cancer. And while it’s not very common , a lesion that mimics a mole can crop up as an early sign of breast cancer or an indication that breast cancer you’re already aware of has worsened. When a mole points to skin cancer Anytime you have an unusual mole, getting checked out by a professional is wise. Thankfully, all skin cancers, including melanoma, are quite treatable when detected early on. Signs that your mole might indicate melanoma include: Bleeding or oozing Jagged edges Rapid changes, such growing larger Swelling, itchiness, or pain A change in texture, such as scales Signs that your mole is linked with other types of skin cancer include: Flat, firm, pale, or yellow areas Raised itchy or reddish patches Pink, red, or translucent shiny bumps While the most common skin cancers — basal cell and squamous cell carcinoma — aren’t as serious or life-threatening as melanoma, early diagnosis and treatment are still important for your health and well-being. Routine skin exams with your dermatologist are important if you’re showing signs of skin cancer or have heightened risk due to factors like history of sun tanning or sunburns or you have light hair and eyes. Mole removal procedures If you have a bothersome mole, whether it’s benign, cancerous, or precancerous , numerous removal techniques can help. Dr. Schwarcz surgically removes moles in the office, taking special care to protect surrounding skin. We offer both laser and traditional surgical approaches. The mole is sent to a lab for biopsy to confirm whether or not it is cancerous. If you have skin cancer, you may benefit from Mohs surgery, a highly effective procedure that removes cancerous cells, layer by layer. Dr. Schwarcz will refer you to a dermatologist who will perform the procedure. Depending on the location and size of the Mohs, you may want a plastic surgeon to perform the closure. Dr. Schwarcz performs the Mohs closure procedure to create the most visually appealing results after your dermatologist has removed the harmful cells, so you’ll have the least possible scarring to worry about. To learn more about moles and related health risks or to get started with your desired treatment, call the office convenient to you to book a consultation today. You can also request an appointment online . REQUEST AN APPOINTMENT

Cosmetic Treatments for a Sagging Neck & Face Sagging skin around the face and neck is typically one of the first signs of aging. Over time, the skin becomes less elastic, and the underlying fat that supports the skin of the face and neck can shift or disappear. Heredity, stress, sun exposure, and smoking can also affect the skin and contour of the face and neck. A trained and experienced oculoplastic facial surgeon like Dr. Robert Schwarcz can use a variety of cosmetic surgery techniques to tighten the skin of the face and neck to create a more youthful and aesthetically pleasing profile. Facelift A rhytidectomy, commonly referred to as a facelift , is typically used to reverse signs of aging involving the face and neck. Facelifts can be used to remove excess fat and tighten the skin of the neck to eliminate a “turkey neck” or double chin. The procedure can also reduce the appearance of jowls and nasolabial fold lines between the nose and mouth. Neck Lift A neck lift is often used in combination with a facelift to improve the contour of the neck. The procedure involves removing excess fat in the neck through excision or liposuction and tightening the muscles of the neck. In some cases, excess skin may also be excised. Since a neck lift requires a detailed restoration of the musculature, patients considering the procedure should consult Dr. Schwarcz, a board-certified cosmetic and reconstructive surgeon to achieve the best possible results. Mini Facelift A mini facelift is a more conservative cosmetic surgery than a traditional facelift. The procedure is focused on reversing signs of aging around the eyes, mouth, and forehead without altering the rest of the face. Although the results are subtle, a mini facelift is often enough to correct minor sagging along the cheeks, neck, and jaw. This procedure is ideal for men and women who want a more refreshed look with less visible scarring and downtime. REQUEST AN APPOINTMENT

What Does a Neck Lift Involve? If you’re feeling self-conscious about your neck as years go by, you may want to consider a neck lift . This cosmetic surgery can reduce common signs of an aging neck, such as sagging skin, turning the clock back on your appearance. Board-certified oculofacial plastic surgeon Robert M. Schwarcz, MD , and his team are pleased to offer this procedure to patients in Manhattan and Scarsdale, New York. Here’s a look at the ins and outs of neck lifts, including what happens during the procedure and your recovery. Reasons to consider a neck lift Aging affects people’s appearances differently, including around your neck. Genetics, environmental factors, and stress also can play a role in how your neck looks and ages. No matter the cause, a neck lift procedure can address numerous common complaints, including: Excess fatty deposits under the chin Loose or sagging neck skin Jowls caused by excess fat or loose skin in your lower face Abnormal contours, caused by muscles banding in your neck You may also opt for a neck lift if your face and neck don’t seem to match up. If you’re not interested in or ready for a facelift , a neck lift may be all you need to revitalize your appearance. Or if you’ve already had a facelift and your neck no longer looks youthful by comparison, a neck lift creates consistency. What occurs during a neck lift procedure Dr. Schwarcz creates incisions in the crease under your chin or behind your ears. Through those cuts, he removes excess skin and tissue and alters your muscles to form a tighter neckline and eliminate fleshiness or jowls. The careful placement of the incisions help prevent visible scars after your surgery. Dr. Schwarcz and his team perform neck lifts on an outpatient basis, and you stay comfortable throughout, thanks to local and/or heavy sedation. In all, the procedure usually takes 1-3 hours. Recovering from your neck lift After your neck lift surgery, you need someone else to drive you home. Once you’re settled there, be sure to follow your aftercare instructions. You also need to keep your head elevated above your heart for a designated amount of time, to keep swelling down. Meanwhile, avoid bending or twisting your neck. You must wear a special elastic “face bra” while you sleep for two weeks. During your recovery, do not apply ice to the treatment area. While the numbness may be tempting, ice can compromise blood flow and lead to skin death. Instead, we may recommend pain medication. To learn more about what neck lifts involve or to schedule your procedure, call one of our offices to book an appointment with Dr. Schwarcz today. You can also request an appointment through this website using our online scheduling tool. REQUEST AN APPOINTMENT