ClearLift: A Breakthrough in Cosmetic Laser Treatment ClearLift is a non-invasive skin resurfacing procedure that can lift and tighten sagging skin , reduce the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines, vascular redness, and small spider veins. The procedure is gentle enough that it can be used on the neck and chest as well as around the eyes and mouth. This form of laser cosmetic treatment is gaining popularity because it produces dramatic results with no discomfort, pain, or downtime. Uses for ClearLift Treatment ClearLift is gentle and appropriate for all types of skin. Most patients opting for the procedure want to improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles around the mouth and eyes. Others want to tighten sagging skin on their neck, chest, or face. The ClearLift laser uses Q-Switched technology that is also effective in eliminating pigmented skin imperfections, vascular lesions and even tattoos. How Do the Treatments Work? The energy from the ClearLift laser strengthens the collagen structure that supports the skin. The laser heats the underlying layers of skin while leaving the outer epidermis untouched. This stimulates the development of new collagen, which helps to lift and tighten the skin and plump out lines and wrinkles. When the dermal layer of the skin is heated, the body’s natural healing reaction is stimulated. The body treats the heating as a wound and builds collagen in the area as a way of “repairing” the damage. The heating occurs several millimeters under the surface of the skin, so there is no visible damage to the skin. Since the upper layer of skin is not affected, a local anesthetic is not required. The procedure does not cause the swelling or redness associated with other laser therapies. The fact that the surface of the skin is not damaged also reduces the risk of infection. New York board-certified cosmetic oculoplastic surgeon Dr. Schwarcz can perform the ClearLift procedure in approximately 20 minutes. Some patients achieve visible results after just one treatment. The appearance of the skin continues to improve as the body builds new skin cells and collagen. In most cases, three to five treatments are performed several weeks apart. The ClearLift Difference While ablative laser treatments that vaporize the outer-most layer of skin produce results, they can be uncomfortable and require several weeks of downtime. ClearLift skin resurfacing works under the surface of the skin, which makes it possible to return to normal activities right away. REQUEST AN APPOINTMENT

Lip Augmentation: The Path to Plumper Lips with Dermal Fillers Lip augmentation using dermal fillers is a non-surgical treatment for creating full, voluminous lips . In the past, lip augmentation typically involved collagen injections. Today, the most popular dermal fillers contain hyaluronic acid, which is safer than collagen and produces longer-lasting results. Hyaluronic acid occurs in the body naturally and adds volume to the area where it is injected. Other cosmetic procedures to increase lip volume, including implants or fat injections, are rarely used today because of the risk of inconsistent results and side effects. Common Hyaluronic Acid Fillers The most frequently used dermal fillers for plumping of the lips include Juvederm , Restylane , and Restylane Silk . They work by adding structure, shape, and volume to the lips. Each of these fillers involves a similar procedure and produces comparable results. Some fillers also contain the local anesthetic lidocaine to help make the injections more comfortable. The effects of the injection typically start to lessen after approximately six months. Repeat injections are required to keep the lips plump. Benefits of Non-Surgical Lip Augmentation Hyaluronic fillers immediately start to support and reshape the lips. Fillers offer a number of benefits over other methods of lip augmentation. The doctor can control the amount of lip volume that is created by adjusting the amount of filler used. The treatments can be spread over multiple appointments in order to achieve the desired results. Bumps or lumps created by normal lip movement dissolve easily. Hyaluronic acid fillers tend to create less swelling and bruising than other types of fillers. Hyaluronic acid is a natural substance that is unlikely to result in an allergic reaction. What to Expect During Lip Augmentation A cosmetic surgeon can perform injectable lip augmentation using dermal fillers during a quick in-office procedure. The doctor will numb the area with a topical numbing agent or by injecting a local anesthetic. Dr. Schwarcz, a cosmetic and oculofacial reconstructive surgeon, will mark the areas to be treated before injecting the filler using a fine needle. The results of the cosmetic procedure should be noticeable right away. Potential Risks and Side Effects Complications following lip augmentation injections are rare and typically include: tenderness and redness at the injection site, bleeding at the injection site, and minor bruising and swelling It is normal to experience some minor discomfort and swelling, but these symptoms can usually be alleviated with ice. REQUEST AN APPOINTMENT

The Difference Eyelid Ptosis Repair Can Make When one or both of your eyelids droop, a condition known as ptosis, numerous bothersome symptoms can unfold. By partially or fully blocking your vision, sagging eyelids can interfere with your ability to go about your daily life, spurring frustration. The area around your eyes might also feel tired and achy. And it’s easy to feel self-conscious about your appearance when your eyelids sag over your eyes. If you’re bothered by eyelid drooping, board-certified cosmetic surgeon Robert M. Schwarcz, MD , can help. At our offices in Scarsdale and the Upper East Side of Manhattan, New York, he offers eyelid ptosis repair to improve your vision and quality of life. In this blog, we delve into eyelid ptosis, including the positive difference reparative surgery can make. What causes eyelid ptosis This condition can stem from a range of causes, including genetic factors, injuries, the aging process, and disease. The most common causes include: Congenital (present at birth) Acquired (occurring naturally with age) Trauma to the eye/face area Damage to the nerves that control the eyelid muscle Eyelid muscle weakness Illnesses and diseases that may contribute to developing eyelid ptosis include diabetes, Horner syndrome, myasthenia gravis, and stroke. Swelling from a stye or a tumor around your eye can also play a role. How eyelid ptosis repair helps If an underlying disease is fueling your eyelid ptosis, treatment for that condition should improve your symptoms. In most cases, however, disease isn’t involved with ptosis and surgical repair is the most effective treatment. Ptosis can affect anyone at any age, and because ptosis tends to worsen over time, it is wise to consider having the procedure sooner than later. Eyelid ptosis repair involves tightening the muscles that open your eyes, allowing the eye to open wider. This can improve visual function as well as offer a more symmetrical appearance. Because of the nature of the procedure, there are no visible scars.. He also may detach the affected muscle, reattaching it further down to allow for broader eye opening. In all cases, eyelid ptosis aims to improve vision through better eyelid function or placement. You may have ptosis repair alone or along with blepharoplasty , also known as an eyelid lift. What to expect after eyelid ptosis repair Dr. Schwarcz performs your ptosis surgery with sedation anesthesia. You may feel a little groggy for the rest of the day after your procedure, but that should wear off by the next day. Dr. Schwarcz goes over your aftercare instructions, which include things like icing the area frequently and avoiding strenuous activity and heavy lifting for the first few weeks. Follow these directions carefully for the best outcome. Some amount of swelling is normal following ptosis repair and full improvements may take 2-3 months to unfold. Dr. Schwarcz will follow up with you periodically to ensure the best possible recovery. To learn more about what a difference eyelid ptosis repair can make or to get started with your desired treatment, call the office convenient to you to book a consultation with Dr. Schwarcz today. You can also request an appointment online . REQUEST AN APPOINTMENT

Lip Enhancement via Facial Fillers Many people opt for lip enhancements non-surgically via facial fillers. Restylane Silk is the facial filler of choice for the lips. To create more voluptuous, juicier, fuller lips , this non-surgical non-invasive treatment is done by injection by a cosmetic plastic surgeon. The amount of filler will be discussed prior to the treatment and your particular goals and preferences will be considered and taken into account. Facial fillers are also used to improve and enhance the texture and volume of other areas of the face. During lip augmentation, a topical anesthetic is applied before the injection. Some slight swelling or bruising may occur after but will subside. REQUEST AN APPOINTMENT

Risks of Skin Cancer & Pre-Cancerous Lesions Skin cancer is dangerous and presents real health issues for an individual diagnosed with one of the many forms of skin cancer or a pre-cancerous skin lesion that has not yet developed into cancer. Both must be treated and removed in a timely manner to eliminate any health risk. Many people can develop skin tumors from excessive sun exposure, lack of sun protection, and inadequate care of the skin. This is why such cancers must be detected and screened by a doctor. Skin cancer can develop on the body as well as the face. When present on the face, the tumor can leave behind scars if left to grow very large. Various removal and surgery techniques exist to eliminate pre-cancerous lesions and skin cancer tumors. Mohs surgery is one surgical method of skin cancer treatment and removal which extracts each layer of tumors present in the skin. Curettage and electrodessication is another method used to treat basal cell and squamous cell cancers. This procedure can be performed by a general surgeon or dermatologist. Dr. Schwarcz is a cosmetic plastic and reconstructive surgeon who routinely performs skin cancer surgery removal and treatments. REQUEST AN APPOINTMENT

How Rhinoplasty is Performed Rhinoplasty is a type of cosmetic procedure used to reshape the nose to improve its structure . Patients often have this procedure done to correct a deformity. For example, a person can have a nose job done to eliminate a bump on his or her nose, alter the size or shape, or to correct a birth defect. During a rhinoplasty procedure, a board-certified cosmetic surgeon can also alter a patient’s nasal shape so that he or she can breathe easier. Who are the Best Candidates for Nose Surgery? Those who are under the age of 16 should wait until their nose becomes more fully developed. In addition, this cosmetic surgery option is not ideal for those who smoke or drink. Both smoking and drinking reduces blood flow, which means that less oxygen reaches the skin. Necrosis can occur if the skin does not get enough oxygen during the wound-healing process. Open Rhinoplasty Technique vs. Closed Technique Board-certified cosmetic surgeons can choose from two different procedures. If the patient’s nose only needs minor alterations, then the surgeon can make incisions within the nose to reshape it. Patients who need more drastic reshaping will undergo open rhinoplasty. During this procedure, the surgeon must create a vertical strip between the nostrils so that he or she can see the entire nasal structure. During a Rhinoplasty Procedure The surgeon will start by placing incisions around the nose based on the alterations requested before the procedure. The surgeon will dissect the nasal skin, create a new structure and then drape the skin back over the area. During most rhinoplasties, the surgeon must use a nasal splint to help stabilize the nose’s anatomy. The purpose of rhinoplasty is to change facial features in a subtle way that blends in with the rest of the face both symmetrically and proportionally. After the procedure, patients must take care of their nose so that it can heal properly. The healing process occurs gradually, so patients may experience inflammation and minor bleeding after surgery. It can take up to one year for the healing process to finish. Those who plan to undergo additional facial procedures should ask their surgeon about having them done all at once. For example, a board-certified cosmetic surgeon can conduct a chin augmentation in conjunction with a nose procedure. Having multiple cosmetic surgeries done at once can help the surgeon maintain facial balance. 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

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

Eyelid Blepharoplasty to Renew the Skin Around Your Eyes Everyone knows that skin begins to loosen and sag as we age. This is true for all skin, even the delicate skin surrounding the eyes. Sagging eyelids can typically make a person’s face look older. If you have drooping eyelids, you might consider elective blepharoplasty, eyelid surgery to restore and replenish your youthful appearance . As with other areas of the body, the skin around the eyes changes as you age. Skin begins visibly losing elasticity after age 30 and continues to loosen as one ages. The delicate skin of the eyelids will also thin with age and the muscles around the eye become weaker. Weak muscles and loose, thin skin will result in visible sagging near the eyes causing you to look older or even sad. Severely drooping lids will fold over into the peripheral field of view and can cause problems with vision. The solution is simple: eyelid blepharoplasty. Symptoms that Can Benefit from Eyelid Surgery The following are some of the conditions that can be treated with blepharoplasty: Puffiness caused by fat deposits in the upper lids Droopy skin causing folds which disturb the usual shape of the top lid or result in reduced vision Stretched or extra skin and lines of the bottom eyelid Baggy skin under the eye Droopy lower eyelid skin You’ll need to consult with your doctor to determine the root cause of your droopy lids and to see if you’re a viable candidate for a blepharoplasty. Eyelid surgery can be performed by Dr. Schwarcz, a renowned cosmetic plastic surgeon, in his office in New York City or Scarsdale. Dr. Schwarcz’s expertise as an oculofacial cosmetic plastic surgeon makes him extremely qualified in dealing with the delicacy and sensitive nature of surgical correction of the eyes. Some issues cannot be corrected with a blepharoplasty. If the underlying issue is a problem with the function of the lid, then your cosmetic surgeon will likely recommend a procedure known as ptosis repair. Another cause could be a downward displacement of the eyebrow. In this case, the brow would need to be elevated to retract the extra skin from around the eyes. While each patient is different, most patients achieve excellent results following blepharoplasty. Normal activities can be resumed approximately two weeks’ post-surgery. Following a blepharoplasty, many people experience bruising near the eyes, puffiness, or dry eyes. All these symptoms can be alleviated with a cold compress and medications provided as part of your aftercare. REQUEST AN APPOINTMENT

What is Thyroid Eye Disease (TED) or Thyroid Orbitopathy Thyroid eye disease, also known as TED, is an orbital disease closely linked to Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, Graves’ disease, and other immune disorders affecting the thyroid. Although the condition affects all races and ages, it most often occurs in individuals in their 20s to 60s. Women are far more likely to develop TED than men. TED affects approximately 14 out of every 100,000 females. The incidence among males is roughly one-fifth that of females. Approximately 25 to 50 percent of individuals with an immune disease of the thyroid develop TED that involves the orbit of the eye. This thyroid orbitopathy can lead to optic neuropathy, impaired motility, congestion, and severe inflammation. Although an estimated 90 percent of patients with orbitopathy have a history of thyroid hormone abnormalities, the condition is not caused by the abnormal hormone levels, and the orbital disease does not automatically resolve once hormone levels are normalized. Patients with thyroid eye disease typically experience an active disease phase in which the inflammatory symptoms are progressive. This is followed by a post-inflammatory phase in which the symptoms stabilize and become inactive. The active phase of the disease can last up to 18 months. During this time, the patient may experience symptoms that include: orbital pain and discomfort, swelling and redness around the eye and conjunctiva, abnormal protrusion of the eye, strabismus, and optic neuropathy A small number of patients with thyroid dysfunction and severe orbitopathy go on to develop a skin condition known as Graves’ dermopathy in which the skin of the lower limbs becomes red and swollen and develops an orange peel-like texture. Some of these patients also go on to develop a thickening or clubbing of the nail beds and fingertips. Treatment for Thyroid Eye Disease: Once the condition becomes dormant, the patient can consult an oculoplastic surgeon like Dr. Robert Schwarcz to correct the damage caused by the active phase of the disease. This typically involves surgery to realign the eye muscles, reduce pockets of fat in the eyelids, narrow the opening of the eyelid, and lessen the protrusion of the eye. Click here to learn more about thyroid orbitopathy . REQUEST AN APPOINTMENT