Regardless of the degree of wrinkling or scarring, Dr. Lewis has tremendous
expertise in all forms of correction, to produce a smoother, more youthful
appearance. The "tightening effect" of dermabrasion and chemical peels
eliminates the need for facelifts in many patients.
Dermabrasion
Throughout history, people who have been distressed and
embarrassed by disfigurement of their facial skin have searched for ways to improve these
imperfections. Today, because of modern technology, there are several excellent
procedures available to improve facial scarring, one of which is dermabrasion. This
technique, first introduced in the 1940's, has been perfected over the last few
decades. Used on both men and women, facial dermabrasion is a surgical procedure in
which skin, scarred from acne, the sun, pox, or other causes, is "sanded" with a
rotary abrasive instrument.
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The abrasive or planning action evens out the skin to give it a
smoother, more pleasing contour. When the technique of dermabrasion was
first developed, it was used primarily to improve acne, pox marks and scars
resulting from accidents or disease. Today, it is used to treat other conditions as
well. These include tattoos, age (liver) spots, sun damage, wrinkles and certain
kinds of skin lesions. Dermabrasion can be done successfully on patients with
active acne. It is better, of course, to obtain the greatest amount of acne control
prior to the surgery, but more extensive damage can occur if the procedure is delayed. |
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Dermabrasion can be performed in the doctor's
office, and outpatient surgical facility or a hospital, depending upon the doctor's
and physicians preference. Medication to relax the patient may be
administered prior to surgery. The face is thoroughly cleansed with an
antiseptic cleansing agent. Eyes and hair are covered, and the area to be treated is
sprayed with a spray that freezes the skin. Cold packs to numb the area may be
applied before it is sprayed.
Superficial skin is then "sanded" with an
abrasive sire brush or other appliance attached to a high speed rotary instrument.
Some patients require bandaging after treatment, others do not. The procedure lasts
for thirty to sixty minutes, depending upon the condition of the skin and extent of the
area involved.
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For a few days, the skin feels as though it has been
severely sunburned. Medication alleviates any discomfort the patient may
have. Antibiotics may be prescribed to prevent infection. If bandages are
used, they are removed within a few days. Some swelling is to be expected 24 to 48
hours after surgery. Swelling can be reduced by keeping the head in a slightly
elevated position when reclining.
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| Chemical
Peel |
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Glycolic acid is an alphahydroxy acid naturally occurring
in sugar cane. It penetrates skin cells and loosens thickened surface layers that
appear as dry, rough, scaling skin. As the uppermost layers are sloughed away, skin
with a smoother texture and healthier appearance is revealed. At home care includes
daily skin cleansing and moisturizing that maintain the beautifying effects.
Your improved skin appearance will continue with monthly freshening peels and daily
at-home care.
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Another
remarkable, new dermatological procedure is redefining the traditional superficial peel.
This advanced skin renewal treatment is offered by Dr. Lewis. It takes just
five minutes, but its visible results appear to lift years off you face.
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Fine lines become less apparent
Enlarged pores appear smaller
Skin tone evens out
Texture becomes more refined
Superficial scars appear reduced
Your skin will look healthier and actually glow
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The process is easy. First, you will wash your
face. PreCleanse pads may then be used to complete the cleansing process and prepare
your skin for the procedure.
Next, B-LIFTx is applied to your skin, beginning the
renewal process. In about one minute, you will feel a slight stinging. A
translucent mask will begin to appear. Within two to three minutes, any discomfort
will peak, then rapidly diminish to nearly zero. With this procedure there is no
"downtime." Your skin immediately looks and feels smoother and
tighter. Your face may temporarily appear a bit rosy. In a day or two your
face may begin peeling. The degree of peeling can vary from invisible, to mild, to
noticeable peeling and flaking, depending on your skin and other factors that Dr. Lewis
can discuss with you.
| BOTOX
Botox is a sensational addition to our treatments for wrinkles,
especially over the forehead, between the eyes and around the eyes.
Botox has been used medically for over 10 years and over the last
few years “perfected” for wrinkles.
It temporarily paralyzes the muscles which cause the wrinkles and
folds. With continued use,
the treatments usually can be spaced out between 6 and 8 months and can
thin (atrophy) the involved muscles minimizing the folds.
Dr. Lewis uses a machine called EMG (electromyogram) to precisely
locate the “belly” of the involved muscle to maximize the chances of
a perfect result.
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Consultation:
If you think one of these procedures might be right for
you, Dr. Lewis will be happy to meet with you, conduct a full medical evaluation, and
discuss his different techniques for your desired procedure. Patient education is
essential whether you have the procedure done by Dr. Lewis or someone else.
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