Stephen Carroll Aesthetics

Products And Services

• BOTOX® Cosmetic

  BOTOX® Cosmetic is a prescription drug that, when injected, temporarily paralyzes muscles. It contains a purified and safe form of botulinum toxin A, which is produced by the microbe that causes botulism. Manufactured by Allergan, Inc., it is used to treat permanent furrows and deep wrinkles in the skin that are formed by the continual contraction of facial muscles. In addition to its cosmetic applications, it is used to treat a number of medical problems, including excessive sweating, overactive bladder, neck spasms, crossed eyes, chronic back and jaw pain, and migraines. Applications for BOTOX Cosmetic Although originally approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of eye and muscle spasms, BOTOX Cosmetic was quickly recognized for its cosmetic value. Properly placed injections of BOTOX Cosmetic block nerve impulses sent to muscles, weakening them to the point where they cannot contract, and temporarily eliminating moderately severe furrows and lines. BOTOX Cosmetic is used to treat the following: Forehead furrows Frown lines Crow's feet Skin bands on the neck According to Allergan, BOTOX Cosmetic has been "extensively researched, with approximately 2500 studies." BOTOX Cosmetic Procedure and Results Using a very fine needle, BOTOX Cosmetic is injected directly into facial muscles that are causing furrows and lines. Receiving the injections requires no anesthetic, but some doctors choose to numb the area to be injected with ice packs or a topical anesthetic cream. Results can usually be seen within a few days of treatment, and typically last up to four months, although areas that are treated on a regular basis may retain results longer. Injections should be given only by qualified medical professionals. Side Effects of BOTOX Cosmetic Injection-site side effects of BOTOX Cosmetic are usually mild and temporary, and include the following: Pain Infection Inflammation Tenderness Swelling Redness Bleeding Bruising Normal activities may be resumed immediately after receiving injections.

  Link: BOTOX® Cosmetic

• Kybella®

  One of the most flattering things of a person’s profile is having a chiseled, defined chin. If you have excess fat under your chin or a double chin, then you may feel a bit self-conscious about your profile and overall appearance. But, unless you want to undergo surgery, you may think that you are stuck with your double chin. One thing that you may not realize is that you have another option to choose from including an injection called Kybella. What Is Kybella? Kybella is an FDA approved injectable that is designed to help destroy fat cells under the chin. Once Kybella is injected into the fat under the chin it works to dissolve the fat and leave you with a more defined profile. How Many Kybella Treatments Will I need? During your initial consultation with our staff, we will better be able to determine just how many treatments you will need. You may receive a total of six treatments, but on average, patients see visible results in just two to four treatments spaced one month apart. Is Kybella Right for Me? Typically, Kybella is good for patients who are otherwise healthy and who: • Are bothered by the fat under their chin • Feel like their double chin makes them look older or heavier set than they actually are • Don’t want to go through surgery • Eat well and exercise a lot but can’t get rid of their double chin How Does Kybella Work? The main ingredient in Kybella is synthetic deoxycholic acid which works to naturally breakdown and absorb dietary fat. When injected into the fat beneath the chin, Kybella works to destroy the fat cells and give patients a noticeably thinner profile. How Many People Have Been Treated With Kybella? Kybella has been the central focus in over 20 clinical studies in which more than 1600 people were treated. How Long Does Kybella Last For? One of the many benefits of Kybella, is that because it works to actually destroy existing fat cells, results should be permanent and no further treatment may be necessary for maintenance. Is Kybella Expensive? The cost of Kybella varies from provider to provider but if you want to save money on the overall cost of Kybella then enroll in the Brilliant Distinctions Rewards Program which will allow you to earn points on each treatment and redeem them for savings on future treatments. What Are The Side Effects of Kybella? The most common side effects of Kybella are swelling, pain, numbness, bruising, redness, and hardness around the treatment site. Additionally, some patients experience problems such as ulcers, hair loss, bruising, trouble swallowing, injury to the jaw that can cause an uneven smile or facial weakness, and necrosis around the injection site. Does Kybella sound like something that you are interested in learning a little more about? Schedule your Kybella consultation and call our office today!

  Link: Kybella®

• Dysport®

  Prescription Dysport® injectable is a U.S. Food and Drug Administration-approved treatment for temporarily lessening or eliminating moderate-to-severe frown lines between the eyebrows. Like BOTOX® Cosmetic, Dysport injectable is placed directly into the muscle underneath a furrow, weakening the muscle to the point where it cannot contract. Dysport, also known as Reloxin, is made from a neurotoxin produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum; it is the same neurotoxin used in BOTOX Cosmetic. Applications for Dysport Injectable Medically, Dysport injectable is used to treat excessive underarm sweating; symptoms of cervical dystonia, which include neck pain and abnormal head position; and muscle spasms. Cosmetically, Dysport injections are used to treat the following: Forehead furrows Frown lines Crow's feet Skin bands on the neck Dysport Injectable Procedure and Results Using a very fine needle, Dysport injectable is placed directly into facial muscles that are causing furrows and lines. No anesthetic is required, but some doctors choose to numb the area to be injected with ice packs or a topical anesthetic cream. Results can usually be seen within a few days of treatment, and typically last up to 4 months, although areas that are treated on a regular basis may retain results longer. Injections should be given only by qualified medical professionals. Candidates for Dysport Injectable According to the manufacturer's website, candidates for Dysport injectable are "adults less than 65 years of age" who want "temporary improvement in the look of moderate-to-severe frown lines between the eyebrows (glabellar lines)." It may not be suitable for those with the following: Allergies to Dysport injectable or its ingredients An allergy to cow's milk protein Surgical facial changes Very weak muscles in the treatment area A face that looks very different on each side Inflammation or infection in the area to be injected Droopy eyelids or sagging eyelid folds Deep facial scars Thick, oily skin Wrinkles that cannot be smoothed when spread apart Anyone who is pregnant or breastfeeding, or has a neuromuscular disease, should not receive Dysport injectable. Differences Between Dysport Injectable and BOTOX Cosmetic Although made from the same bacterium, there is anecdotal evidence that Dysport injectable may last longer, spread farther and take effect more quickly than BOTOX Cosmetic. Side Effects of Dysport Injectable Side effects of Dysport injectable are usually mild and temporary, and normal activities may be resumed immediately after receiving injections. Injection-site side effects include the following: Pain Infection Inflammation Tenderness Swelling Redness Bleeding Bruising Eyelids can droop when Dysport injections are made in the glabellar region; they usually return to normal within 3 weeks. Side effects of Dysport injectable are the same as those of BOTOX Cosmetic.

  Link: Dysport®

• Body and Facial Hair Transplants

  Body and facial hair transplants are the most permanent solution to problems of body and facial hair loss. Such procedures can provide relief from the distress caused when hair is lost from places on the face or body where it normally grows. For some individuals, disguising hair loss with wigs or hairpieces may be a good solution, but many patients desire a more permanent solution. There are a number of treatments available to help promote hair growth or hide hair loss, but the most effective treatment, with the most lasting results, is often hair transplantation surgery. Hair loss can occur as a result of aging, heredity, medications or underlying medical conditions, and can affect men and women of all ages. Aside from affecting the hair on the head, hair loss may leave bald areas, patchy spots or thinned hair on the face or body. Depending on the gender of the patient, hair loss may be more or less troublesome when it occurs in the beard area, chest, armpits, eyebrows, eyelashes or pubic region. Any noticeable hair loss may cause embarrassment, self-consciousness and even serious emotional distress to patients who suffer from it. Since most insurance companies consider hair transplantation a cosmetic procedure, however, though expensive, hair transplantation is rarely covered by insurance. Reasons for Body and Facial Hair Transplants The loss of hair on the face or body can be caused by a number of different factors, including: Disorders of the thyroid or pituitary glands Hormone deficiencies Certain medications Cancer treatments Nutritional deficiencies Some skin or immune disorders Traumatic stress Hair loss may be the result of alopecia areata, a condition of unknown origin believed to be an immune disorder, in which a problem with the follicles causes hair to stop growing and fall out, or a disorder known as telogen effluvium, in which a large section of hair goes into a resting phase, stops growing, falling out all at once, or trichotillomania, a psychiatric disorder in which a patient compulsively pulls out facial or body hair. The Transplant Procedure Beginning in the 1950s, doctors began experimenting with the transplantation of hair. In the early procedures, strips of the scalp were removed and transplanted to balding areas. In modern, perfected procedures, the strips of hair removed are carefully divided into individual follicles, usually between one and four follicles, and inserted individually into tiny surgical openings on the bare patches of the targeted area. During hair transplant, the donor and the recipient are the same individual. Donor hair to be used for transplantation is harvested from a discreet area of the scalp. It is removed from portions of the head, typically at the back and sides, that are considered permanent safe zones because they are unaffected by hair loss. Once the hair is removed and divided into follicular portions, the transplants are made individually. The precise amount of hair that needs to be taken from the head will be determined by the location to which it is being transplanted and the size of the area that needs coverage. Accuracy is essential, as these hairs will be transplanted one by one and positioned in a natural direction of growth. The hair grafts will continue to grow normally in their new location. A hair transplantation procedure takes between four and ten hours to perform, depending on the extent of the coverage required. Usually one session is sufficient, though sometimes additional sessions may be required. Recovery from Body and Facial Hair Transplants Patients who have undergone body or facial hair transplantation should expect some soreness, swelling, itching, crusting, and possible numbness at both the donor and recipient sites. Pain medication, either over-the-counter or prescribed, may be administered to lessen discomfort. Normal activities can usually be resumed after 24 hours, though symptoms may not completely subside for a week to 10 days. The results of this procedure appear gradually as the transplanted hair falls out and then regrows to restore a natural appearance. The incisions will fade over time to become less noticeable as well. Desired results are usually achieved after approximately 6 months, although this varies from patient to patient. The number of procedures needed depends on the extent of hair loss, as well as the patient's physical characteristics and goals for treatment. For some patients, a single session may be all that's needed, while others will require more. The doctor will determine how many treatments are needed to suit individual needs. Within 2 to 3 weeks after surgery, the transplanted hair will fall out, but within the next few months new hair growth will appear. Within a period of 6 to 9 months, most patients will have attained 60 percent of their new hair growth.

  Link: Body and Facial Hair Transplants

• Microdermabrasion

  Microdermabrasion is a minimally invasive skin-exfoliation procedure designed to treat sun damage, scars, wrinkles and hyperpigmentation. In addition to its cosmetic benefits, microdermabrasion helps to enhance circulation and lymph flow. Results are immediately visible, and there is no downtime for the patient, who can immediately resume regular activities. Performed in-office, microdermabrasion does not require anesthesia, and can be combined with other procedures such as chemical peels or laser treatment. Microdermabrasion is a much less invasive procedure than dermabrasion, which is used to treat more serious skin problems. Dermabrasion, in which several layers of skin are removed, is considered a surgical treatment. The Microdermabrasion Procedure During the microdermabrasion procedure, which is usually performed by an aesthetician, a handheld device is used to transmit tiny crystals of aluminum oxide across the targeted treatment area. The crystals and dead skin are then suctioned away with a vacuum tool, revealing fresh underlying skin. A treatment session can last from five to 60 minutes. The results of a single microdermabrasion treatment are temporary. For continued improvement, treatment should be repeated every 2 to 4 weeks. Risks of Microdermabrasion Microdermabrasion is considered safe for all skin types, and is appropriate for Asian and dark-skinned patients who may be at risk for skin discoloration with other types of treatment. There are no serious risks associated with microdermabrasion, although some patients experience mild redness and irritation, and patients older than 70 may have a slightly escalated risk of bruising and skin abrasions. Avoiding sun exposure after microdermabrasion is important because it may have removed some of the skin's natural protection. In patients who have a history of cold sores, undergoing microdermabrasion may reactivate the virus that causes them. In those cases, avoiding treatment around the lip area and/or taking preventative antiviral medication prior to treatment may be recommended.

  Link: Microdermabrasion

• Permanent Makeup

  Permanent makeup, also known as micropigmentation or cosmetic tattooing, is a cosmetic technique that uses dye or pigment that is permanently injected into the skin to resemble makeup or conceal imperfections. Permanent makeup can improve a person's appearance in a variety of ways, that may include: Enhancing features such as the eyebrow, eyelashes and lip Concealing scars or blemishes Camouflaging areas of uneven pigmentation All of these enhancements can be accomplished without the need for daily makeup applications. This procedure is FDA-approved and produces successful results for a wide range of cosmetic goals. Permanent makeup is quickly becoming a popular, convenient treatment for patients with minor cosmetic concerns. In some cases, permanent makeup is used to improve the appearance of a nipple after breast reconstruction. The results of this procedure are long-lasting and any fading can be addressed with with minor touch-up treatments. Candidates for Permanent Makeup Micropigmentation can be used for all skin types, and can be used to enhance the patient's natural appearance or improve the appearance of scars and other skin imperfections. For most patients, permanent makeup serves as a way to save time in their daily schedule. It may also be used on individuals whose ability to wear regular makeup is hindered by an allergy or other medical condition. This may include patients whose skin is easily irritated by most forms of traditional makeup, patients with arthritis and other painful conditions who have difficulty applying makeup, and those who have suffered hair loss on the eyebrows, sideburns or hair line. Permanent Makeup Procedure FDA-approved, allergy-tested dyes are made of mineral extracts and can be tinted to match the patient's skin tone as closely as possible. Individuals can choose the specific color, shade and intensity of dye for a completely customized procedure. After the application of a topical anesthesia, the dyes are injected into the skin using micro-needles. The procedure may last as little as 30 minutes, depending on the size of the area being treated. Patients can return home shortly after the procedure. The application of permanent makeup may cause mild discomfort. Ice packs can be used after treatment to reduce any pain or swelling, and antibiotic ointment may be applied to help prevent infection. Complications are rare but may include infection or allergic reactions to the dye. Permanent Makeup Results The results of the permanent makeup application are visible immediately, although more than one session may be required for larger areas or touch-ups. Most patients can achieve their desired results after two treatment sessions spaced one to two weeks apart. Aging and long-term sun exposure may lead to a reduction in color strength that may require touch-up treatments in order to maintain the original results. If removal of permanent makeup is desired, a laser procedure similar to tattoo removal may be performed, in order to remove pigmentation from the skin and restore the patient's original appearance.

  Link: Permanent Makeup

• Cellulite

  Cellulite is a cosmetic skin condition involving the accumulation of fatty deposits under the skin. It presents as areas of dimpled or puckered skin, most often appearing on the thighs, hips, buttocks and abdomen. This condition affects nearly 8 out of 10 women over the age of 20, as well as some men. Women more commonly develop cellulite because of the way fat is distributed in the lower half of the female body. Cellulite appears to have a genetic component since individuals who have family members with cellulite are more prone to develop the problem. Causes of Cellulite Cellulite, may develop for several reasons, including such factors as: Loss of skin elasticity due to aging Weight gain, as during pregnancy Poor diet Fad dieting Slow metabolism Lack of physical activity Hormonal changes Dehydration Excessive body fat Type and tone an individual's skin Treatment of Cellulite While not of medical concern, cellulite is bothersome to many people who may feel self-conscious about wearing shorts or a bathing suit. Fortunately, there are treatments available to reduce the appearance of cellulite and to help patients restore their skin to its original smooth texture. In some cases, home remedies may be all that is required. Since cellulite tends to be less noticeable on darker skin, applying a self-tanner may make the bumps and dimples on fair skin less noticeable. There are many over-the-counter treatments advertised to treat cellulite, but research has shown that most do not live up to their advertised claims. Fortunately, there are lifestyle changes that can help the appearance of the skin and improve the self-confidence of those affected with this condition. The simplest approach to reducing cellulite is to lose weight through a healthy diet and regular exercise. Other treatments are provided by physicians and may include: Laser or light therapy Massage Herbal wraps Mesotherapy, treatment of the middle layer of the skin Dietary supplements Liposuction Risks and Benefits of Cellulite Treatments Some cellulite treatments involve risks as well as visible benefits. Certain individuals with circulatory problems cannot use cellulite creams. Others may be allergic to such products. The positive aesthetic effects of some treatments, such as massage and body wrapping, may be short-lived. While the results of certain procedures, such as laser treatments or liposuction, may be highly successful, they also may occasionally cause problems such as indentations or fluid accumulation in skin tissues, or the long-lasting appearance of bruises.

  Link: Cellulite

• IV Therapy

  Your body uses vitamins, minerals and amino acids to provide you with energy, health and wellness. IV therapy is a good way to get these nutrients into your body while bypassing the digestive system; IV therapy provides a direct route for nutrients to reach your bloodstream. This area of regenerative medicine is beneficial as a form of maintenance and rejuvenation, or as a way to mitigate the side effects of chemotherapy, radiation and other treatments for chronic illness. What is IV Therapy? So what does IV therapy do, anyway? In short, it delivers vitamins and minerals into your body. While the food you eat and supplements you take must first be processed by the digestive system, intravenous delivery has an unfiltered route to your cells. IV therapy provides 100 percent absorption of the minerals and vitamins in the solution, whereas supplements taken by mouth can never be absorbed this completely. Hydration, Vitamins and Minerals Depending on the specific ingredients you want to infuse in the solution, your IV therapy can deliver hydration as well as nutrition. The benefits are many: Replenishes nutrients Supports healthy immune system Boosts energy Promotes healthy aging Boosts physical stamina and performance Prevents dehydration Detoxes the system Soothes gut problems Eases chronic pain Reduces fatigue Prevents muscle aches The IV solution may help you sleep better and prevent mood swings. It may be the right way to sharpen your focus and concentration. IV solutions can help treat and prevent the common cold and the flu. What’s Included? Common IV ingredients include: B vitamins Multi-vitamin Vitamin C Vitamin D Calcium Iron Potassium Folate Magnesium Zinc Folic Acid Selenium Glutathione Alpha Lipoic Acid The solution is customized and certain add-ins can be incorporated into an existing IV offering. You may also have the option of choosing the Myers’ Cocktail, named after Dr. John Myers, who developed the IV solution in the 60s. This IV cocktail contains vitamins B and C, magnesium and calcium. It is linked to an array of beneficial outcomes, including anti-aging. It has been used to address problematic digestion, fatigue, low energy and chronic disease symptoms. Whether you are an athlete wanting to boost recovery, a person wanting to cure a hangover, or someone who is dealing with the serious symptoms of chronic illness, a Myers’ Cocktail IV may be helpful to you. What is IV Treatment Like? The treatment itself is quite comfortable. You’ll be able to relax with an audio book, listen to a podcast or check your inbox while the solution is administered. It can take anywhere from 30 minutes to a couple of hours. You will get the appointment estimate ahead of time so you can plan accordingly. Schedule an IV Treatment Arrange an appointment today. First, you will choose the right IV solution for the symptoms or chronic illness you are experiencing. Afterward, you should feel more energetic and rejuvenated. Although scientific evidence is limited, IV therapy may boost your immune system functioning and help stave off colds, the flu, fatigue and other problems.

  Link: IV Therapy

• Vitamin B12 Injections

  Vitamin B12 is an important component of a healthy diet, contributing to the functioning of the brain, nerves and blood cells. While everyone requires this vitamin for healthy functioning, pregnant women and nursing mothers require somewhat more than average. Vitamin B12 is found naturally in many foods, including fish, seafood, liver, beef and dairy products and is added as a supplement to foods like cereals, to help ensure proper nutrition. The vitamin, which may also be produced in the laboratory, is usually injected into the muscle of the thigh, upper arm or hip when necessary. Dosage and frequency of injections varies depending on the patient's condition. Reasons for Vitamin B12 Injections There are many reasons vitamin B12 injections may be prescribed or recommended. In some cases, patients may be deficient in the vitamin and suffering symptoms, while in others, B12 may be considered potentially helpful in preventing or treating certain conditions. Vitamin B12 Deficiencies Vitamin B12 is necessary for patients with a low serum level of vitamin B12 because they take particular medications or because they suffer from: Pernicious anemia Gastrointestinal or autoimmune disorders Alcoholism Patients may also have low levels of vitamin B12 if they have had bariatric surgery, are strict vegetarians, or have used antacids or proton pump inhibitors for a prolonged period. Vitamin B12 deficiency is also more frequently found in individuals of advanced age. Conditions Vitamin B12 Prevents or Improves Vitamin B12 is believed to be helpful in preventing or improving the following conditions: Memory loss, Alzheimer's disease, or other dementia Fatigue or lack of concentration Weakened immune system Heart, kidney and liver disease Infertility Osteoporosis Allergies or asthma Tinnitus Skin disorders Lyme disease As an alternative to being injected with vitamin B12 for these conditions, patients are sometimes offered B12 supplements to be taken orally or applied as nasal gels. In many cases, though, patients' disorders prevent them from absorbing the B12 unless it is administered by injection. Symptoms of Vitamin B12 Deficiency Vitamin B12 deficiency results in symptoms common to a variety of disorders, so blood work and other diagnostic testing may be necessary to rule out other problems. Symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency include: Anemia Intestinal disorders and weight loss Fatigue, weakness, lightheadedness Memory loss or confusion Depression or dementia Rapid heartbeat and respiration Mouth or tongue soreness or bleeding Excessive bruising Injections are the most effective means of administration of vitamin B12 since they do not depend on the body's ability to absorb the substance through the gastrointestinal tract. Although vitamin B12 injections can increase energy and improve quality of life for individuals with a deficiency, patients whose vitamin B12 levels are normal will not have improved health from this treatment.

  Link: Vitamin B12 Injections

• Semaglutide

  If you’ve ever tried to lose a significant amount of weight, you know it’s never quite as simple as the antiquated “calories in, calories out” advice. In reality, your energy level, appetite, stressors, hormones, metabolism, and other factors influence how easy or difficult it is to lose excess body fat. When diet and exercise alone aren’t enough, semaglutide injections overseen by a medical professional could help you achieve a healthy weight. What Is Semaglutide? Sold under the brand names Ozempic®, Wegovy®, and Rybelsus®, semaglutide is a prescription medication for type 2 diabetes and long-term weight management. Available in injectable and tablet form, this drug works by mimicking a hormone called glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) which the body naturally produces to regulate hunger and blood sugar levels. Semaglutide helps your body produce more insulin when your blood sugar levels are too high. It also works in the GI tract by slowing gastric motility, which means food stays in your stomach longer and prolongs the feeling of fullness. For that reason, it can be a great weight loss aid. Can I Take Semaglutide if I Am Not Diabetic? Semaglutide was developed as an antidiabetic medication, but you don’t need to have type 2 diabetes to experience the benefits. A randomized controlled trial from 2021 found semaglutide was an effective weight loss drug for overweight and obese non-diabetic adults. It may also lower your risk of obesity-related conditions like heart attack and stroke. How Do I Use Semaglutide for Weight Loss? Semaglutide can be administered subcutaneously or orally. The dose will vary depending on the brand and the individual. Typically, adults taking Wegovy for chronic weight management inject 2.4 mg once weekly. However, adjustments can be made as needed under medical guidance. What Should I Do if I Forget a Dose of Semaglutide? While the following recommendations may be helpful, you should ask your provider for specific instructions. If you miss an Ozempic injection, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, you should skip the dose if it’s been more than five days since you missed the injection. If you’re using Wegovy, you can take the missed dose as soon as possible as long as your next dose is more than two days away. Otherwise, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. You shouldn’t double your injections to make up for a missed one. Missing a dose of Rybelsus works differently. Rather than taking the missed dose as soon as possible, you should skip it and take the next tablet when you usually would. If you’re consistently missing oral doses of semaglutide, it could help to switch to an injectable form. What Side Effects Can This Medication Cause? Semaglutide is a safe and effective medication for many people struggling with weight loss or type 2 diabetes management. However, potential side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, heartburn, constipation, or burping. In rare cases, semaglutide can cause serious side effects, some of which may require medical attention. That said, adverse reactions are usually limited to mild gastrointestinal upset. Contact Us About Semaglutide If you’re interested in semaglutide to help with weight loss, contact our office. Our provider can determine if it’s a good match for you.

  Link: Semaglutide