Help for Your Facial Paralysis When it comes to problems with muscles, movement, and paralysis, it’s easy to think of issues with your arms or legs — but virtually any part of your body can lose the ability to move, including all parts of your face. While facial paralysis isn't as common as other types of paralysis, it can be just as bothersome or debilitating. Board-certified cosmetic surgeon Robert M. Schwarcz, MD , is pleased to offer surgery to correct the effects of facial paralysis of all severities. Here, we explain more about this condition, including ways we can help. Causes and symptoms of facial paralysis Facial paralysis results from damage to the facial nerves that allow your muscles to function normally. This can unfold for a variety of reasons, such as: Infection or inflammation of the facial nerve Acoustic neuroma Bell’s palsy Head trauma Parotid cancer Tumors in your head or neck Stroke The facial nerve contains thousands of nerve fibers, and each one carries impulses to a particular muscle within your face. When the nerve fibers are healthy, they allow you to laugh, frown, smile, chew, and speak with ease. Facial paralysis can also cause your face to droop and lead you to drool, making it easy to feel self-conscious about your appearance. Treating facial paralysis If your face is paralyzed due to Bell’s palsy, your symptoms may diminish on their own over time. Many people with Bell’s palsy find that their symptoms improve within about six months , with or without treatment. If you’ve had a stroke, stroke treatment that aims to do away with a problematic blood clot may resolve your symptoms. If your paralysis symptoms linger or stem from other causes, you may benefit from facial paralysis surgery. During this procedure, Dr. Schwarcz uses special techniques to re-suspend the drooped area of your face. He can also pair reconstructive techniques with cosmetic techniques to make sure your face reverts to your desired appearance. You may benefit from facial paralysis surgery paired with Botox® injections, for example, to correct asymmetry or a related concern. In some cases of partial facial paralysis, no surgery is needed. A treatment such as Botox injections combined with physical therapy may suffice. You could also try such a method first, resorting to surgery only if you aren’t fully satisfied with the results. To learn more about facial paralysis or to discuss a treatment plan with Dr. Schwarcz, call the office convenient to you or request a consultation using our online scheduling tool. REQUEST AN APPOINTMENT

Neck Lift Surgery: Your Complete Guide to an Optimal Recovery Each year in the United States, more than 160,000 people opt for a neck lift , a cosmetic surgery that addresses signs of aging on your neck and jawline. And as with most surgeries, a recovery period follows the procedure. At our offices in the Upper East Side of Manhattan, and Rye, New York, board-certified cosmetic and oculofacial plastic surgeon Robert Schwarcz, MD , and his team offer neck lift surgeries to help you feel more confident about your appearance. Here’s a look at this popular procedure, including how to make the most of your recovery. How a neck lift works During neck lift surgery, Dr. Schwarcz makes incisions in the crease under your chin or, potentially, behind your ears. Through those cuts, he removes excess and unwanted fat or skin and contours the muscles to diminish jowls and create a firmer and sleeker neckline. The specifics of your procedure depend on the state of your neck, your overall health, and your desired results. If you’re bothered by a particularly fatty neck, he may recommend liposuction . If you have saggy areas, folds, or deep wrinkles, he can surgically tighten the area using specialized techniques. Regardless of what’s needed, Dr. Schwarcz places incisions strategically to keep them well hidden and avoid any prominent scars. From start to finish, this outpatient procedure takes about 3 hours, during which you’re under sedation anesthesia. What to expect after your neck lift surgery After your procedure, a loved one can drive you home to rest and recover. If you’ve had stitches, you can expect to return to our office for removal in 7-10 days. For about two weeks, you wear an elastic head wrap at night. To make the most of your neck lift recovery, consider these steps as well: Don’t use alcohol and aspirin Avoid fully turning your neck Don’t use an ice pack on your neck, which could compromise blood flow Avoid heavy lifting for several weeks Keep your head elevated, including while you sleep Follow all provided aftercare instructions Alert our office if unusual symptoms, such as a fever, arise Many people can return to work within 1-2 weeks of a neck lift procedure. Any bruising, pain, or swelling should fade within that time as well. And your results should last for years. To learn more about neck lift surgery or find out if you’re a good candidate for the procedure, book a consultation with Dr. Schwarcz today. Call the office nearest to you or request an appointment online anytime. REQUEST AN APPOINTMENT

The Best Techniques to Shape and Plump Your Lips For individuals looking for a simple enhancement treatment for the size and shape of your lips, hyaluronic acid fillers such as Juvederm®, Restylane®, and Restylane Silk® are effective methods to achieve full, natural-looking lips. Hyaluronic acid is a protein that occurs naturally in the skin. When injected into the lips, these fillers add volume and definition while not altering the soft, natural feel of the lips. Non-Surgical Lip Plumping and Shaping If the lips are over injected with filler, it can result in overly plump “duck lips.” When considering a non-surgical procedure to add shape and definition to the lips, it is important to consult a cosmetic plastic surgeon with a specialty in lip augmentation. To achieve the most natural-looking results, the doctor must take the proportions of the entire face into consideration to determine the most aesthetically pleasing lip volume and shape. This is something Dr. Robert Schwarcz is keen on doing before performing even the simplest of cosmetic procedures. Hyaluronic acid fillers can be used to lift the mouth at the corners to reduce the appearance of frowning and create a more defined “cupid’s bow” in the center of the top lip. Restylane Silk is increasingly popular for lip augmentation and is especially effective, with patients reporting noticeable improvement within two weeks of treatment. To determine the amount of filler to be used and the placement of the injections, Dr. Schwarcz, a board-certified cosmetic surgeon , will consider the current shape and size of the lips as well as other facial features, including the angle of the tip of the nose, the space between the nose and upper lip, the size and shape of the philtrum, and the angles of the corners of the mouth. The injections are performed on an out-patient basis. It is natural to expect some swelling and bruising immediately after the procedure, but this typically subsides quickly. The effects of the injections normally last up to a year. It is recommended that patients begin with a small amount of filler since additional injections can always be performed once the swelling subsides if the desired fullness is not achieved. Contact our practices in New York, both in NYC and Scarsdale to learn more or schedule your first consultation! REQUEST AN APPOINTMENT

Neck & Chin Liposuction To Remove Unwanted Sagging Skin Liposuction is a time-tested method for removing unwanted fat from the neck which is connected to the chin. It is traditionally recommended for more severe double-chin cases and those accompanied by sagging neck skin or loose jowls. The treatment is performed under local anesthesia and is virtually pain free. A thin laser is used to liquefy fat and tighten the skin and then a small cannula is inserted to drain away the fluid. The procedure takes three to five hours and patients must recover for one to three days before resuming normal activities. Patients will need to wear a chin strap for three days following surgery to ensure proper healing. The most common side effect is minor swelling. There is also a small chance of bleeding, infections, and uneven fat removal. Choosing the best procedure depends mostly on the severity of the double chin and whether loose skin is a concern. This procedure is considered to be minimally invasive and will produce permanent fat removal. REQUEST AN APPOINTMENT

Why You Shouldn't Ignore an Unusual Mole An estimated one in every 10 adults in the United States has at least one atypical mole. And while some are completely harmless, others contain precancerous or cancerous cells. Rather than risk it, hoping you can ignore your usual mole without consequence, it’s important to seek professional care sooner than later. Board-certified oculofacial plastic surgeon Robert M. Schwarcz, MD , and his team diagnose and treat various forms of skin cancer, as well as precancerous moles . Here, we explore the basics of unusual moles and explain why it’s smart to come into our office to have them checked out. Signs that your mole is unusual A mole can be considered atypical for a range of reasons. You may have one or multiple signs, all of which are important to note. A mole is considered unusual if it: Bleeds Is asymmetrical Is darker than other moles you have Is larger than a pencil eraser Has an uneven or notched border Has multiple colors, such as different shades of brown A mole is also considered unusual if it’s evolving, meaning you’ve noticed changes in its shape, elevation, color, or size. Rapid changes are especially important to notice. Cancers linked with unusual moles If you have atypical moles, even if they’re hereditary, you have a heightened risk for the most dangerous form of skin cancer, known as melanoma. And a new or suddenly changing mole anytime could be a sign of skin cancer. Other types of skin cancer that can appear as an unusual mole include basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. Basal cell is the most common and least harmful type of skin cancer. Your mole could also contain precancerous cells that could become cancerous over time. Treatment for an unusual mole After an evaluation, Dr. Schwarcz will determine whether additional tests are needed. A team member may take a sample of your mole to send it to a lab for further testing. If it turns out that you have precancerous cells, you may need additional tissue removed and routine skin monitoring to watch for any recurrences. If you’re diagnosed with a form of skin cancer, treatment typically involves removal. At our office, we are trained to perform the Mohs surgical technique, a specialized and precise means of removing cancerous tissue in thin layers in order to preserve the most healthy surrounding tissue. With a success rate of nearly 100% , it also helps prevent recurrence. For severe cancers, you may need additional treatments, such as radiation. Early detection and treatment is best Regardless, your treatment will be the most successful if you seek it early. This is especially the case with melanoma, which is very aggressive and, in later stages, often fatal. When melanoma is detected and treated in its early stages , your prognosis will likely be quite good. To learn more about unusual moles or to have our team check your skin for trouble, call one of our offices — in the Upper East Side of Manhattan and in Scarsdale, New York — to book an appointment. You can also request an appointment using our online scheduling tool. REQUEST AN APPOINTMENT

5 Reasons to Consider a Facelift If you’re bothered by changes to the look of your face as years go by, you may want to consider a facelift . During this popular procedure, the skin on your face is pulled back and tissues beneath the skin are surgically altered to restore a younger-looking facial shape. In many cases, you can pair it with a neck lift as well. Board-certified oculofacial plastic surgeon Robert M. Schwarcz, MD , and his team offer facelifts and neck lifts to give you the more youthful look you desire. Take a few minutes to learn about five common reasons people consider having a facelift done. 1. You’re bothered by cheek sagging Cheeks begin to sag as you age because of lost elastin and collagen, skin-enhancing substances your body produces in lesser quantities once you’re over 30. A facelift can effectively tighten your sagging cheeks, giving you a more contoured and toned look. 2. You want to get rid of sagging jowls Excess skin around your jawline, also known as jowls, is another common reason people opt for a facelift. Virtually everyone develops jowls over time, as your skin becomes thinner and less elastic. A facelift can literally lift that skin, creating a jawline you’re pleased with. 3. You’d like a firmer, slimmer look from the neck up Aging, as well as weight fluctuations over the years, often create sagginess around the lower face and neck, which makes many people feel self-conscious. Studies have found that even modest changes in this area can negatively impact your self-perception. A facelift — possibly combined with a neck lift — can help you regain a firmer, slimmer look. 4. You want to feel more confident about your look For some people, emotional benefits are the biggest draw when considering a facelift. In a study published in Clinical Psychological Science, researchers analyzed the emotional well-being of about 550 first-time cosmetic surgery patients and more than 260 people who had considered but then opted against such a procedure. People who’d had plastic surgery were more likely to report having higher self-esteem and less anxiety. They also reported being grateful that they had the surgery. 5. You prefer a long-lasting solution If you’re tired of attempting to conceal signs of aging in your face or neck and aren’t interested in treatments that require multiple sessions per year, a facelift may be a smart choice. Unlike most injectable anti-aging treatments, facelift results tend to last around 10 years . While some people continue to receive shorter term, nonsurgical procedures such as Botox® after a facelift, you may find that you need fewer treatments than you did before facelift surgery. Those less invasive treatments still do a wonderful job enhancing the look of your skin versus the shape of your face. To learn more about facelifts or to find out if you’re a good candidate, 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

Injectable Treatments Who Is a Candidate for Facial Injectables? There are numerous surgical and non-surgical methods available to those living in the New York area to reverse the signs of facial aging. Injectable fillers accounted for approximately 56 percent of all facial rejuvenation procedures performed in 2016. Injectables are a minimally invasive treatment option to achieve a more youthful appearance and are suitable for most patients. Individuals considering injectable cosmetic treatments should consult a board certified cosmetic surgeon to determine if injectables are the right choice to help them achieve their aesthetic and cosmetic goals and treat certain concerns such as fine lines and wrinkles. How Do the Various Cosmetic Injectables Work? Facial injectables fall into two basic categories. Dysport and Botox are known as neuromodulators. They work by blocking nerve impulses to the targeted muscles, which temporarily stops the muscle movement that causes the wrinkles to form. Restylane, Juvederm, and Perlane are facial fillers that restore volume to selected areas of the face to plump and smooth the skin. They create a fuller, more rounded appearance by using a natural substance called hyaluronic acid, which is present in young skin. Are the Results of Injectable Facial Rejuvenation Treatments Permanent? Surgical and non-surgical cosmetic procedures temporarily reverse the tell-tale signs of aging; however, they do not stop the aging process. As a general rule, the benefits of Botox injections last anywhere from three to six months. Hyaluronic acid fillers can last as long as two years. Most patients choose to undergo periodic maintenance treatments to preserve their enhanced appearance. Is There Downtime Associated with Cosmetic Injectable Treatments? The injection procedure itself is performed on an outpatient basis and does not require anesthesia. Depending on the number of injections, the procedure can be completed in under half an hour. It is possible to go back to your normal activities immediately following the procedure; however, there may be some bruising, redness, or swelling at the injection site. It can also take a couple of days for the full results of the procedure to become apparent, so patients should plan accordingly if they have an upcoming special event. Can Anyone Perform Cosmetic Injectable Treatments? Although injectables are less invasive and risky than surgery, there is still the possibility of side effects. To ensure the best possible results, patients should look to New York cosmetic surgeon Dr. Robert Schwarcz, who has the qualifications and experience to perform the procedure safely and who will take the time to develop a personalized treatment plan to achieve the desired results. REQUEST AN APPOINTMENT

Combining Botox and Dermal Fillers for a Subtle “Liquid Facelift” If you long for a more youthful face without going through surgery, a liquid facelift may be your best bet. This less invasive treatment provides subtle and especially natural-looking results, making it ideal for people who wish to age gracefully. At our offices in the Upper East Side of Manhattan, and Rye, New York, Robert Schwarcz, MD , and his team offer liquid facelifts using cosmetic injectables to create a complexion you feel more confident about. How Botox and dermal fillers work Treatments with neuromodulators such as Botox® and with dermal fillers , such as Restylane, Eyelight, and Lyft, involve injections using a fine needle. Both types of injectable address common signs of aging. Botox contains neurotoxins that temporarily paralyze muscles in the treatment area. As a result, you’ll have fewer fine lines and wrinkles, such as crow’s feet, frown lines, and forehead lines. Dermal fillers are gels that add instant plumpness or volume to targeted areas, such as your cheeks, lips, and temples. Many contain hyaluronic acid, a hydrating substance that your skin produces. What to expect during your liquid facelift Your liquid facelift involves combining the two types of injectables to target different kinds of facial lines and wrinkles. The process typically takes about 15-30 minutes . Once you’ve discussed your treatment goals with your provider, they inject Botox and fillers in choice regions using a specialized technique. While many people tolerate the brief pinching sensation during the injections, you can opt for ice or a topical numbing solution beforehand. Some fillers contain a small amount of lidocaine for added comfort. After your procedure is complete, your skin may show some redness and swelling around the injection sites. These effects tend to diminish quickly on their own. You’ll need to avoid certain activities — like intense exercise and lying down — immediately afterward. Otherwise, you can go about your day as usual. Liquid facelift results You may choose to primarily focus on one or two areas, for example, or you might want some amount of treatment throughout your face. Regardless, you can expect a fresher, natural-looking appearance. Results vary, but you should notice more fullness or smoothness from your dermal fillers straight away. Within 10-14 days , Botox takes full effect. Fillers last from several months or as long as a year . Botox results typically last for up to 3-4 months. At that point, or if you wish to increase the intensity of your results sooner, you’re welcome to schedule additional injections. Not ready for the dramatic change and the long recovery that come with surgery? To learn more about subtle, beautiful liquid facelifts using Botox and dermal fillers, contact Robert Schwarcz, MD , today. We can also recommend other nonsurgical treatments to rejuvenate your appearance. REQUEST AN APPOINTMENT

Treat Your Lips With Restylane Silk Restylane Silk is a simple, easy-to-administer facial filler that can be used for targeted treatment of fine wrinkles and deeper facial lines. It is especially popular for lip enhancement because it produces a light, soft filling augmentation where other fillers can make lips look hard or unnatural. Restylane Silk is a non-surgical cosmetic procedure that can be performed in Dr. Schwarcz’s New York City or Scarsdale office and produces fast results that can last up to 6-9 months. What Is Restylane Silk? Restylane Silk is composed mostly of hyaluronic acid, a naturally occurring compound in the body. As such, it should have no major side effects when injected into the body and is reabsorbed normally as it breaks down over time. Restylane Silk also contains lidocaine, a pain-killing compound that allows the injections to be done quickly and with minimal discomfort. How Do Treatments Work? Restylane Silk is applied by a trained cosmetic surgeon during one or two visits over the course of two weeks. The injections are tailored to each specific patient’s skin type and color and areas of need. Your doctor will consult with you before the treatments to explain what will be involved and what sort of results you will be able to expect. A single treatment usually takes a few minutes. The doctor uses a very thin needle to inject the facial filler beneath the epidermis into the connective tissue, which is where lines and wrinkles form. The filler absorbs excess water and provides extra padding beneath the skin to stretch out the wrinkles. It will take 2-3 days after the injections for the Restylane Silk to achieve maximum fullness so you can see the best skin augmentation. Little or no recovery time is necessary, although there maybe some slight bruising or swelling that should heal quickly. REQUEST AN APPOINTMENT

5 Signs You Need Revision Eyelid Surgery Most patients undergoing eyelid surgery, also known as blepharoplasty, do so for aesthetic or medical reasons. Blepharoplasty surgery is an effective way to remove loose skin and excess fat around the eyes that can add years to the overall appearance and even interfere with the proper function of the eyelid. If the cosmetic surgeon is not skilled in the procedure, the patient may experience complications and require a revision surgery to correct the issue. Reasons to Undergo a Revisional Eyelid Blepharoplasty Eyelid surgery is not a forgiving procedure. Even the slightest mistake can create undesirable results. The following are a few of the most common reasons why a patient may opt for corrective surgery. Drooping Eyelids The most common reasons that the eyelids may continue to droop following the original surgery are that too little skin was removed or that the levator muscle responsible for lifting the eyelid was not tightened. This can be corrected with a revisional surgery that tightens the muscle to create a more refreshed and vibrant appearance. Distorted Eye Shape or Contour An example of this type of issue is a sagging lower eyelid that reveals more of the white than normal. The problem typically occurs when too little or too much skin is removed. A revision blepharoplasty can help restore the natural shape of the eye. Inability to Blink or Shut the Eyes This issue can occur if too much skin is removed during an upper eyelid surgery. The skin is then so tight that the eyes cannot completely close, which is referred to as lagophthalmos. This is not only uncomfortable, but it also increases the risk of injury to the eye by dust and other debris. A revision blepharoplasty that uses skin grafts can make it possible to blink and close the eyes properly. Undereye Hollowness This issue can occur if the surgeon removed too much fat from the lower eyelids. The result is that the eyes appear sunken, which makes the individual look ill or tired. Revision blepharoplasty surgery can be used to add volume to the hollow areas to create a younger, rested, and alert appearance. Asymmetry While no one has perfectly symmetrical eyes, a poorly executed eyelid surgery can make the eyes appear noticeably unbalanced. This can occur if too much fat is removed from around one eye, if more skin is removed from one side than the other, or if the levator muscle of one eye is tightened too much. Revisional surgery can restore the normal symmetry of the eyes. When considering eyelid revision surgery, it is best to seek out a board-certified oculoplastic surgeon like Dr. Robert Schwarcz with specific expertise in performing these types of procedures. Click here to learn about what is involved in an eyelid blepharoplasty procedure . REQUEST AN APPOINTMENT