Dermatologist - Bakersfield, CA

Botox
Many are turning to Botox to reduce moderate to severe frown lines between their brows, forehead wrinkles and crow's feet. Simple and nonsurgical, the treatment is administered by a trained physician in patients ranging in age from 18 to 65. Botox decreases the movement of the muscles in these trouble areas, temporarily smoothing them for up to four months. Approved by the FDA in 2002, Botox consists of a few small injections of the purified protein into the muscles to temporarily reduce the lines. The procedure is minimally invasive, requires no recovery time and can be completed in about 10 minutes. Since results are temporary, many patients choose to begin a treatment schedule to maintain results. Although side effects are generally minimal, they can include temporary drooping of the eyelid, nausea, headache and respiratory infection.

Fillers
When the natural collagen in your skin's support structure starts to thin, wrinkles begin to form. Through collagen replacement therapy with Zyderm® or Zyplast® collagen implants, we can replenish the collagen in your skin, thus softening wrinkles and evening out your skin. Treatments usually last 3-6 months and every treatment program is specific to your individual needs. The treatments last less than an hour, and many patients will start seeing results immediately and with minimal recovery time. CosmoDerm and CosmoPlast are more revolutionary new treatments to replace natural collagen to help smooth fine lines and crow’s feet and eliminate unwanted wrinkles. These new treatments can also help define your lip border. Since it is composed of human collagen, there is no need to wait as no pre-treatment skin test is required! You will begin to see results immediately, and they will typically last three to six months. A hyaluronic acid dermal filler, Captique is another way to temporarily smooth facial lines and wrinkles. Through the use of this filler, which is naturally found in the skin, patients can see immediate results that are very predictable with little to no downtime.

Chemical Peels
There are various types of chemical facial peels that can aid in skin rejuvenation. We have licensed staff members who give facials and perform superficial peels (“weekend peels”). Superficial peels generally last 15-20 minutes after the chemical peeling agent (glycolic acid) is placed. The agent helps to resurface the upper layers of the skin to restore a more youthful, healthy look. We also perform medium depth peels (35% trichloracetic acid peel). A medium depth peel requires more healing days; however, it will also yield better results than with a superficial peel. Breaking through the deeper skin layers, medium depth peels are a popular option for skin rejuvenation. Our doctor can determine which chemical facial peel may be right for you.

TCA Skin Peels
Chemical facial peels can aid in skin rejuvenation. Our staff performs TCA skin peels (trichloracetic acid peel) at different concentrations at our office. The peel can improve your skin’s appearance and diminish wrinkles, improve acne scarring and correct pigmentation problems. Trichloracetic acid is generally used in medium depth peels.

When the TCA solution is applied, patients may feel a burning sensation, but this passes within a few minutes. Healing generally takes 5-7 days following treatment. While patients do not feel any pain, the skin will resemble having a serious sunburn. Often, patients will need more than one treatment to attain the results they are seeking. Patients who receive a TCA skin peel should avoid exposure to the sun for several weeks after being treated. A sunscreen of at least SPF 30 is recommended if the patient must be outdoors.

If you are looking to improve your skin’s appearance, ask us if our TCA skin peel is right for you.

Contour Threads
Now you can get natural-looking facelift results with a minimally invasive procedure with Contour Threads. Inserted with a long needle, these small, barbed sutures open up like an umbrella to support areas of the face that droop or sag. Once the thread is knotted, the threads retract into your skin’s deep tissue, where you can’t see or feel them. Patients are generally able to return to work and their daily activities 2-3 days following the procedure. Most patients will experience some bruising and swelling, but this will soon subside. Only local anesthesia is required for the procedure, and you may return home soon after completion. Ask your doctor if you’re a good candidate for a Contour ThreadLift with Contour Threads.

Cosmetic Procedures