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

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

Tips for a Successful Blepharoplasty Recovery Cosmetic surgery requires the patient to adhere closely to certain guidelines in order to recover quickly and healthily from the procedure. Blepharoplasty, or eyelid surgery , calls for the same guidelines as any other surgery, but due to the nature of the surgery, the patient will need to take additional precautions. The procedure itself is relatively simple and if both eyes and all four eyelids are operated on, the procedure lasts approximately an hour and a half without complications. Immediately After Surgery The first task that a surgeon will perform after the procedure, is applying a protective ointment and dressing to the eye of the patient. This will cause blurred vision that will last for approximately a day. Some pain and discomfort may be present as the anesthesia wears off. As your full use of your eyes will be temporarily weak during the healing process, patients who undergo blepharoplasty are advised not to drive and are actually prevented from doing so. Therefore, make sure to arrange for a designated driver ahead of time. Seven to Ten Days After the Procedure The first week or so after recovery is the most important period of recovery time. In order to prevent infection, the doctor will prescribe antibiotics to the patient. The patient must also monitor their temperature to detect any rise or fever, which may indicate infection. The patient must be sure to take the pain medication that the doctor has prescribed in case of discomfort. Many common painkillers like aspirin, naproxen and ibuprofen will worsen any bleeding, and should be avoided. Dr. Schwarcz will prescribe you appropriate pain medications that minimize bleeding. The patient should get lots of rest and not engage in excessive activity during this period of recovery. Keep the head elevated to prevent swelling. Dr. Schwarcz will advise you how to clean around the eyes while the incisions heal. Later Stage Recovery Vision will continue to be blurred during the healing process. Eyeglasses may be worn immediately, but contact lenses must wait until two weeks after surgery. Eye makeup can start being worn at this time as well. Any swelling or bruising should clear up as well. The patient may start to engage in heavier activity after the first 10 days, but strenuous activity or sports with risk of physical impact, especially to the face, must wait until the doctor gives their approval. Schedule an appointment to receive a consultation with oculoplastic cosmetic surgeon Dr. Robert Schwarcz who is also a board-certified ophthalmologist. REQUEST AN APPOINTMENT

How to Remove Unsightly Scars and Keloids Part of the aftermath of having an invasive surgical procedure is the resulting scar. Scar tissue is made of myofibroblasts and collagen fibers, which are the same tissues of the skin it has replaced, but with a different fiber composition. The new alignment of collagen scar tissue is typically inferior, making it appear worse. The body may over-produce collagen to try to repair the damage of an injury, which may result in a scar that is raised above the normal skin level. These adverse scar conditions can happen at any time following an incision during a reconstructive surgical procedure. The most undesirable scars are keloids and hypertrophic scars . Keloids occur less often than hypertrophic scars and are more difficult to treat. Knowing what kind of scar has occurred is vital in its proper treatment. Keloids These irregular looking scars grow to be larger than their original borders, becoming raised and bubbling up outside the original incision. This makes them harder to remove than hypertrophic scars. Sometimes having a cauliflower-like appearance, keloids can either form right after a procedure or take several months to form. Dark-skinned people are more susceptible to this type of scar, and the probability of getting this type of scar is hereditary. Hypertrophic Scars These scars develop in wound closures that are tightly stretched. This happens in places that have a lot of movement, expanding the wound. These scars typically form within 4-8 weeks. The scar is raised, but its borders are not extended. These scars are typically linear and can be removed with surgery. There are varying degrees of this type of scar, but it occurs in 40%-70% of people. Commonalities Either type of scar can develop after an incision in the skin. Two two types of scars have an equal distribution between sexes and are most common when one is in their teens or 20s. Prevention and Treatment It is important to reduce the tension of an incision while it is being closed. To reduce tension at an incision, a surgeon can distribute the tension by closing the wound deeper in the skin. Wearing compression garments following a procedure also helps reduce post-operative swelling. Additionally, steroid injections, radiotherapy, silicon gel sheeting, laser therapy, and Madera can relieve scars. Hypertrophic scars are more prone to success from these treatments than keloids. Scarring is a common concern following a cosmetic procedure. Look at your family history to determine if you may be at risk. If scarring complications do occur, there are treatment options available. Contact our office today to learn more about scar and keloid removal techniques. REQUEST AN APPOINTMENT

Treatment Options for Facial Volume Loss Facial Implants: The Surgical Treatment Option for Lost Facial Volume Facial implants are designed to augment and enhance the contours and cosmetic appearance of the face. The type of implants varies and include chin implants, cheek, malar and jaw implants . For instance, a chin implant can add lost facial volume while enhancing the proportionality and symmetry of the face. The size and location site of each implant really depends on the individual qualities of the patient’s face. A cheek implant, for example, can create fuller, plumper cheeks and allow for greater visibility of the cheekbones which become well-defined as a result of this procedure. Cheek implants are commonly composed of silicone. Since an implant is a foreign device to the body, it is critical that a facial implant surgery is performed by a qualified cosmetic and plastic surgeon. Each implant can be professionally inserted during an out-patient procedure with Dr. Robert Schwarcz, a cosmetic and reconstructive plastic surgeon in New York City. Facial Fillers: The Non-Surgical Procedure for Lack of Volume in the Face Facial fillers like Sculptra and Radiesse are commonly used injectables that enhance facial volume . In addition, to creating volume and definition where it is absent, these fillers can also improve skin elasticity, sagging skin, and firmness . Other facial fillers exist for particular areas of concern and targeted areas of the face. In addition to treating under eye wrinkles and thinned out lips, Juvederm also fills in sunken cheeks . Facial fillers are a non-surgical procedure usually performed at the same time as Botox on other areas of the face. New York plastic and oculoplastic surgeon Dr. Schwarcz has two offices conveniently located in New York City and Scarsdale. REQUEST AN APPOINTMENT

Facial Filler Injection with Oculoplastic Surgeon Anyone who is looking to undergo a non-surgical procedure that fills out hollowed areas of the face and improves the appearance of the fine lines, creases, lack of volume and wrinkles may benefit from facial filler injections. Facial filler treatment can produce natural-looking results and is often a better alternative to more invasive cosmetic procedures. What Facial Filler Injections Can Treat Hollow upper eyelids that create the appearance of having sunken eyes can often be treated with these injections. The loose upper eyelid skin that sometimes comes with aging can be tightened with a facial filler. Bags, dark circles and tear trough deformity around the eyes can be eliminated with treatment. Injectables also work great for filling out areas around the cheeks, brows and temples that are drooping due to fat loss. Patients in NYC can receive a consultation in advance so that Dr. Schwarcz, a prestigious oculoplastic surgeon, can perform a thorough examination and perform the best treatment. Facial Filler Options Some of the best synthetic injectable filler products that can also be used include: Restylane RHA Radiesse Sculptra Hyaluronic acid is a type of facial filler that maximizes moisture and collagen levels. For example, Restylane and Juvederm are comprised of hyaluronic acid. Ideal Candidates Facial fillers can be given to men and women of different ages who are not allergic to these injectables. This treatment is especially beneficial for premenopausal women and men under the age of 50. Excess and stretched facial skin normally do not develop in abundance before these ages. A patient who has droopy eyelids or severe lower eyelid bags caused by fat prolapse should consider having lower blepharoplasty with fat removal and repositioning for the best results. The Procedure Dr. Robert Schwarcz is a facial surgeon in New York who routinely performs facial fillers for his patients. The targeted area and the skin concern influence the type of filler that is selected. Each area can take around 10 to 15 minutes to treat while the patient is comfortably seated. Once the procedure is complete, the patient can resume his or her normal activities. After Treatment Some bruising and/or swelling without much additional pain or discomfort should be expected for the first week after treatment. Results after the initial treatment may last up to two years, but subsequent treatments are known to maintain the results for longer periods of time. REQUEST AN APPOINTMENT

What to Expect From Tear Duct Repair Your tear ducts do more than let you cry. The tiny tunnels are part of a drainage system between your eyes and throat that make it possible for tears to keep your eyes clean and moist. If your ducts have become blocked, tear duct repair can bring a great deal of relief while improving your eye health. Board-certified oculofacial plastic surgeon Robert M. Schwarcz, MD , with locations in Manhattan and in Scarsdale, New York, is pleased to offer tear duct repair. Here, we explain the procedure, including signs that you might benefit from the surgery and what to expect. Are you a candidate for tear duct repair? If you’re showing signs of a blocked tear duct, such as discharge from your eye, excessive tearing, or pain in the area, you may be a strong candidate for tear duct repair. Factors that can lead to a blocked tear duct include: Anatomical issues Chronic nasal or sinus inflammation Conjunctivitis Obstruction from a tumor Trauma to your nose Once you have a blocked tear duct, you don’t want to delay treatment. The duct can become infected, leading to tenderness, more irritation, and more discharge. What to expect from tear duct repair Tear duct repair surgery commonly entails dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR), which creates a new drainage pathway. During this procedure, Dr. Schwarcz makes an incision between your nose and the affected eye or may go in endoscopically, creating an incision inside your nose. Another, less common, tear duct repair surgery involves implanting a small glass tube that allows tears to drain directly from the eye to your nose. Dr. Schwarcz recommends your best option after a thorough exam. Recovering from tear duct repair For a few hours after your surgery, you might notice slight bleeding from your nose. The area surrounding the affected eye will likely appear bruised and swollen for a week or so. For up to two months following your tear duct repair, you’ll likely have a silicone tube in place to keep the passage from the tear duct to your nose open as you heal. While small, the tube might be a bit noticeable when you look in the mirror. Once Dr. Schwarcz removes the silicone tube, your eye should stop watering. To learn more about tear duct repair or get started with your desired treatment, 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

Understanding Your Treatment Options for Actinic Keratosis Actinic keratosis is a very common skin condition, affecting 10%-26% of people in the United States . While any diagnosis can seem daunting, this one could protect you from skin cancer . The rough, scaly bumps or patches on the skin, also known as solar keratosis, stem from ultraviolet (UV) damage. And while these lesions aren’t dangerous on their own, actinic keratoses can turn into squamous cell carcinoma if you ignore them. May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month, making it an especially good time to learn about conditions that affect the skin. At our offices in the Upper East Side of Manhattan, and Rye, New York, Robert Schwarcz, MD , and his team treat or help you avoid cosmetic issues related to actinic keratosis treatment, such as scarring. You should always take any precancerous symptoms seriously. Here, we describe treatment options for actinic keratosis and how we can help ensure that your skin looks its healthy best. Actinic keratosis basics Actinic keratosis can appear most anywhere the sun’s rays reach your skin. Particularly common affected areas include the ears, face, and arms. The precancerous lesions are usually small and flat, with a texture similar to sandpaper. In addition to spending plentiful time in the sun or tanning beds, risk factors for actinic keratosis include: Having pale skin and blond or red hair Having green, gray, or blue eyes Poor immune function Conditions that cause UV sensitivity, such as albinism and xeroderma pigmentosum Because sun exposure is cumulative, your risk for actinic keratosis increases with your age. It’s pretty unlikely to be diagnosed before your 30s or 40s , but your chances increase significantly the older you get. Actinic keratosis treatments While some actinic keratosis lesions diminish on their own, it’s better to be safe than sorry because there’s no way to determine which ones will turn into skin cancer. Actinic keratosis treatment often involves removing the lesion through freezing (cryotherapy) or a topical chemotherapeutic agent such as Aldara or Efudex. Other common treatments include scraping (curettage) and laser therapy. Freezing, scraping, and laser therapy can cause scarring, and Dr. Schwarcz and his team have years of experience ensuring the best outcomes. All of our skin cancer-related treatments are performed with the best possible aesthetic results in mind. Moving forward from your treatment, it’s best to schedule routine skin cancer surveillance. These noninvasive exams check your skin from head to toe, including areas that are difficult to see on your own, for questionable lesions. With early detection and treatment , the prognosis for most precancerous or cancerous conditions are quite good. To learn more about actinic keratosis treatments or get started with any skin cancer care that you need, book an appointment online with Dr. Schwarcz today or call the office closest to you. REQUEST AN APPOINTMENT

Eyelid Surgery Recovery: How Long Does It Take, and What Should I Expect? If bulging, sagging, or wrinkled eyelids interfere with your confidence or your ability to see fully, blepharoplasty has a lot to offer. Close to 90% of patients who’ve chosen this cosmetic eyelid surgery report post-procedure satisfaction. At our offices in the Upper East Side of Manhattan, and Rye, New York, oculoplastic surgeon Robert Schwarcz, MD , specializes in blepharoplasty. Knowing what to expect as far as recovery can help you prepare and give you peace of mind. It might even help ensure the best potential results. Causes of eyelid complaints Eyelids often change with the passage of time. With increasing years, your skin naturally loses elasticity due to reduced collagen and elastin production. If you’ve spent a good deal of time in the sun without protection from ultraviolet (UV) rays, your skin is likely to age much faster. Smoking also accelerates skin aging. All of these factors can bring on bulging, drooping, and wrinkled eyelids. You may also be prone to sagging eyelids, from early on or as you age, for genetic reasons. Blepharoplasty basics Blepharoplasty improves the appearance of your upper or lower eyelids so you can see better or feel more confident about your appearance. During the procedure, Dr. Scwarcz makes tiny incisions in or around your eyelids. He then moves or removes excess fat and tightens muscles around your eyes for a sleeker look or better function. Eyelid surgery is typically performed under local or light sedation anesthesia so you remain comfortable. And any scarring is both minimal and hidden, thanks to Dr. Scwarcz’s careful technique. Eyelid surgery recovery After your sedation wears off, you can expect to have some amount of bruising and swelling. In general, while the initial healing phase can last 2-4 weeks, people feel comfortable going out within 10-14 days of eyelid surgery. Full healing, however, can take several months. To ease any discomfort during your recovery, you can gently apply a cold compress. You may also receive an antibiotic ointment to stave off infection along with specific aftercare instructions from our team. Following those care steps closely helps ensure a positive overall experience. Eyelid surgery results While individual results vary, blepharoplasty results may last for 5-7 years or even indefinitely. Still, your eyelids will continue to age with the rest of your body. To minimize those effects, wear a hat or sunglasses when you spend time outdoors – especially when the sun is highest in the sky, from about 10am to 4pm . We offer additional treatments to enhance your eye region as well, such as Dysport ® for crow’s feet and brow lifts to address drooping. To learn more about eyelid surgery and its recovery or to find out if you’re a good candidate for the procedure, contact Robert Schwarcz, MD , today. REQUEST AN APPOINTMENT