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

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

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

When to Consider a Chemical Peel If you’re bothered by wrinkles or discolored skin, you may want to consider a chemical peel . This nonsurgical treatment takes about an hour and brings visible results in about a week. While the procedure is only minimally invasive, it’s not ideal for everyone. And if you’re a good candidate, you’ll want to time yours well. Board-certified oculofacial plastic surgeon Robert M. Schwarcz, MD , and his team offer chemical peels for clients seeking a more vibrant complexion. Here, we explain more about this procedure, including reasons to consider it. How chemical peels work Chemical peels remove the top layers of your skin to minimize common complaints, such as fine lines and pigmentation problems like scars and spots from sun damage. In many cases, they’re performed with topical anesthetics to ensure your comfort. During the procedure, the top skin cells are removed with a combination of acids, such as trichloroacetic or glycolic acid. The intensity of this process varies from light to deep, depending on which type of peel you choose. Afterward, as new skin is revealed, you can also benefit from boosted collagen and elastin production from natural healing processes triggered within your skin. This is important from an aging perspective, as you naturally produce less of these skin-enhancing substances over time. Are you a good candidate for a chemical peel? If you’re bothered by an uneven skin tone, signs of aging, or scarring on your skin, you may be a good candidate for a chemical peel. Ideal candidates also do NOT have: A history of abnormal or highly pigmented scarring Especially sensitive skin, due to a condition or skin medication Naturally dark skin In addition, if you’ve had certain acne treatments within the last year, your provider may recommend waiting before scheduling a chemical peel. If you’re pregnant, you’ll need to wait as well. Timing your chemical peel After your chemical peel, it may take a while for your skin to fully heal. If you have a medium or deep peel, your skin may show some redness for up to a few months . While you’ll still be able to go about your daily life normally, you may want to avoid scheduling your treatment shortly before a major event, such as a wedding. You should also time any deeper chemical peel in a way that allows you to take good care of your skin. You’ll need to avoid sun exposure while your complexion heals, so shortly before a beach vacation isn’t wise. For that reason, some people prefer to schedule chemical peels during winter months. You’ll also need to avoid makeup initially, until your provider gives you the go-ahead. To learn more about chemical peels or to inquire about giving one a try, call one of our offices — in the Upper East Side of Manhattan and in Scarsdale, New York — to book an appointment with Dr. Schwarcz. You can also request a consultation using our online scheduling tool. REQUEST AN APPOINTMENT

Here's What to Expect During Your Mohs Procedure Your skin is your largest organ and the one most likely to be affected by cancer . While skin cancer can be a daunting diagnosis, cure rates are high with early detection. If you’ve selected a Mohs procedure for your skin cancer treatment , you’ve already upped your odds of a positive outcome. Our team can help ensure that you’re pleased with the cosmetic results, too. Board-certified cosmetic and oculofacial plastic surgeon Robert Schwarcz, MD , and his team close Mohs surgery incisions after a dermatologist completes the surgery in one of our offices in the Upper East Side of Manhattan, and Rye, New York. If you’re slated for a Mohs procedure, here’s what to expect during and after your treatment. How Mohs procedures treat skin cancer Mohs surgery removes thin layers of your skin one at a time for examination with a microscope. This process continues until no cancerous cells remain. Because it’s so meticulous, Mohs procedures don’t damage surrounding healthy tissue. They’re also linked with a success rate of up to 99% . For these reasons, Mohs is considered the gold standard treatment for especially risky skin cancers, such as those with aggressive growth patterns or those located on the head or neck. What to expect during your Mohs procedure Mohs surgery is an outpatient procedure, performed by a dermatologist in our office. While you remain awake, a local anesthetic numbs the area to prevent pain and discomfort. You’ll simply sit comfortably while the skin layers are removed and relax during the sample analysis, which may take several hours. Immediately after your Mohs procedure is complete, Dr. Schwarcz reconstructs the area to create the most aesthetically pleasing results. This is particularly helpful if your cancerous mole is large or is located on your face. Dr. Schwarcz can also address Mohs surgery scarring from a procedure performed elsewhere. Mohs surgery aftercare Once your Mohs procedure and closure are complete, our team goes over your aftercare instructions. Steps may include using a topical ointment to guard against infection and temporarily avoiding heavy lifting and intense exercise. You may experience bruising and swelling after your surgery, especially if a mole was removed near your eyes. Applying an ice pack for 10-15 minutes at a time during the first 24-48 hours can minimize these effects. Regardless, bruising and swelling tend to ease up within a week. To learn more about Mohs surgery closure or get a cosmetic assessment, book a consultation with Dr. Schwarcz today. Call the office nearest to you, or request an appointment online. REQUEST AN APPOINTMENT

You Don’t Have to Live With Excessive Sweating: Find Out How Dysport® Treats Hyperhidrosis Sweating plays an important role in your wellness, allowing you to cool down and maintain a normal body temperature. When you sweat excessively, a condition known as hyperhidrosis, you perspire well beyond your body’s needs — and it fuels a range of problems, such as anxiety, embarrassment, dehydration, and skin infections. At our offices in the Upper East Side of Manhattan, and Rye, New York, Robert Schwarcz, MD , and his team offer Dysport® injections as a treatment for excessive sweating. If you’re among the 3% of the population who lives with hyperhidrosis, here’s what you need to know about it and how Dysport can help. What causes hyperhidrosis For normal perspiration, your nervous system prompts your sweat glands to release fluid as your body temperature increases. When you have primary hyperhidrosis, the nerve meant to trigger that release is faulty. This type can be hereditary. When you have secondary hyperhidrosis, an underlying condition or medication you take causes excessive sweating. Conditions linked with secondary hyperhidrosis include diabetes, thyroid disease, infections, nervous system disorders, and certain kinds of cancer. Menopausal hot flashes may also spur your symptoms. Hyperhidrosis treatments If you have secondary hyperhidrosis, managing the underlying condition may be enough to alleviate your symptoms. If a medication is to blame, for example, your doctor may be able to prescribe an alternate drug. Lifestyle changes can help reduce mild hyperhidrosis symptoms, regardless of the cause. Such changes may include wearing breathable clothing, avoiding hot temperatures, and showering more often. For moderate to severe hyperhidrosis and mild symptoms that don’t improve through altered habits, treatment may involve a prescription antiperspirant, cream, or wipes. An antidepressant or nerve-blocking medication may help as well. At our office, Dr. Schwarcz provides Dysport injections for good candidates. Many excessive sweaters prefer this option, as it doesn’t require much effort on your part, doesn’t cause side effects related to oral medications, and brings results that can last for 4-12 months . What to expect from Dysport for hyperhidrosis Like Botox®, which also treats hyperhidrosis, Dysport contains a purified protein that can temporarily stop the secretion of a chemical your body releases to trigger your sweat glands. For excessive sweating treatment, the injections are placed just below your skin’s surface. While many people tolerate the brief pinching sensation during the injections, you can request a topical numbing ointment or ice beforehand for added comfort. Afterward, you can go about your day as usual. Individual results vary, but many patients notice improved hyperhidrosis symptoms within four days of the Dysport treatment and up to 87% decreased underarm sweating within two weeks. You don’t have to live with hyperhidrosis. To learn more about Dysport for excessive sweating and get started toward relief, call the office near you or request an appointment online with Dr. Schwarcz today. REQUEST AN APPOINTMENT