The eyes are the natural focus point of a person’s face and convey a wide range of expressions. Naturally, we want our faces to communicate the same enthusiasm and energy that we are conveying verbally. Additionally, we all want to look and feel our best every day. Non-surgical procedures offer a less invasive method of eyelid and facial rejuvenation and are among the most popular cosmetic procedures worldwide. For diabetic patients who may be hesitant to undergo surgery, non-surgical options may be a great alternative.

Before and after photos of Botox injections for crow’s feet

Eyelid and facial skin is among the thinnest and most delicate on our body. With time, this skin can become less smooth as a result of age, heredity and sun damage. Traditionally, surgery has been a mainstay of treatment to improve eyelid and facial appearance. However, surgery is invasive and requires longer recovery time.

A variety of non-surgical options are now available which provide pleasing results with minimal down time. Two excellent non-surgical options include botulinum toxin and dermal fillers. These products can be administered in an outpatient setting in the privacy of your physician’s office. They are often used in conjunction with each other to achieve the optimal outcome for the patient.

Botulinum toxins are used to reduce and soften the dynamic lines around the eyes or forehead. The procedure is performed easily and safely with a few injections of Botox® or Dysport® to relax the muscles that cause the lines to form. The injection is a purified, diluted form of botulinum toxin type A, which is a protein produced by the Clostridium botulinum bacterium. Normally, the brain sends electrochemical messages to the body’s muscles to make them move. Botulinum toxin works by blocking neurochemical transmission to the facial muscles responsible for the development of dynamic lines (wrinkles). Following an injection, the muscles gradually relax and contract less, allowing the overlying skin to appear smoother and less wrinkled. The results of the injection are usually apparent within 3 to 5 days, with a maximum effect around 7 days, and generally last an average of four months.

Fine lines and wrinkles of the face may be further reduced through the use of dermal fillers. These treatments reduce and soften the static lines and are performed easily and safely with a few injections of various fillers, such as Restylane®. Results of the treatment generally last four to twelve months. With time and repeated treatment, some patients are able to achieve longer lasting results.

Before and after photos of Botox injections for crow’s feet

Many options, both surgical and non-surgical, are available to patients interested in eyelid and facial rejuvenation. When deciding on a cosmetic procedure, it is important to know the facts so you are better able to make an informed decision. Your cosmetic surgeon should take the time to meet with you personally to discuss your goals, review your medical history and answer all of your questions.

If you are a candidate for non-surgical treatment, he or she will help you to determine which products to use and where to administer the injections to achieve the best results. No sedation or anesthesia is required, and there is no special recovery period. The entire procedure is usually completed by the doctor in a normal office visit. Discomfort is minimal and brief and mild bruising and swelling may occur at injection sites, but this may be covered with makeup.

Dr. Hui is the founder of The Eyelid Institute in Palm Desert. She is an ‘Oculoplastic surgeon’ which is a physician with combined training in Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (Oculoplastics) and Ophthalmology who has unique abilities to perform a variety of delicate procedures around the eyes. She has trained and been on faculty at the world renowned Bascom Palmer Eye Institute in Miami, FL (consistently ranked the #1 eye hospital in U.S. News and World Report) and is returning to practice in her native Southern California. Dr. Hui will meet with you personally to discuss your concerns and desires. Call 760.610.2677 or visit www.TheEyeLidInstitute.com