One of my patients in her early thirties recently asked me what I considered to be the most potent weapon in our arsenal against aging. The answer is simple. Sunscreen. Of course sunscreen alone is not enough. Peels, facials and other procedures are necessary to keep skin hydrated and in optimal condition, however in the battle against photo aging, sunscreen is a frontline combat soldier.
Consider Gena O'Neill, Contemporary Cosmetic Sugery's aesthetician, as your partner in the battle against aging. Gena's broad knowledge of the skin and the elements around us that impact our skin can help you get the glow you want.
Bryan J. Michelow, MD., FACS
Wednesday, October 3, 2007
Lips: Plumped or too Pumped?
It seems like everyone is talking about lips these days. Many women are turning to dermal fillers to achieve the lush lips of Angelina Jolie. Other women are looking to restore the pillowy appeal of youthful lips.
Lately, the tabloids are having field day featuring celebrities with overstuffed lips and "bad" plastic surgery in general. My patients have been asking me if there is any aesthetic formula used to create full lips that enhance rather than overtake the face.
The answer is yes. In most circumstances the width of the lower lip should be two-thirds wider than the upper lip. I keep this in mind when appraising all patients regardless of their age. There should be a pleasing upward curve to the lips, giving the impression of a smile rather than a scowl. I work with the natural architecture of the lip to accent the cupids bow.
Patients who are concerned about aging should keep in mind that as gravity takes over, the face and it features begin to sag. That is why we use fillers to lift in addition to filling in lines. As time goes by the vertical lines between the nose and the upper lip begin to flatten. I use fillers to rebuild these lines (the philtrum) for a more youthful appearance.
Lately, the tabloids are having field day featuring celebrities with overstuffed lips and "bad" plastic surgery in general. My patients have been asking me if there is any aesthetic formula used to create full lips that enhance rather than overtake the face.
The answer is yes. In most circumstances the width of the lower lip should be two-thirds wider than the upper lip. I keep this in mind when appraising all patients regardless of their age. There should be a pleasing upward curve to the lips, giving the impression of a smile rather than a scowl. I work with the natural architecture of the lip to accent the cupids bow.
Patients who are concerned about aging should keep in mind that as gravity takes over, the face and it features begin to sag. That is why we use fillers to lift in addition to filling in lines. As time goes by the vertical lines between the nose and the upper lip begin to flatten. I use fillers to rebuild these lines (the philtrum) for a more youthful appearance.
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