Anyone that has lived in Tampa for a while knows over exposure to the sun can cause skin damage and allow age spots to develop.  If you have age spots and want to remove them, laser skin resurfacing may be the best course of treatment for you.

What are Age Spots?

Age spots, also known as liver spots, are usually caused by age, too much exposure to the sun or other sources of ultraviolet light.  The name liver spots is misleading because their appearance has absolutely nothing to do with the liver.  Age spots can appear as flat brown or black spots that generally show on areas of skin that are frequently exposed to the sun.  They most often start to show in people over 40 years old although they can begin earlier in some cases.  The age spots are more common on the face, back of the hands, forearms, and shoulders.  They are not usually an indication of any serious medical condition but should be checked by a dermatologist if they appear irregular, are raised or grow quickly.

Age Spot Removal with Laser Skin Resurfacing

Once age spots have become apparent, there are a few different methods of treatment to remove them.  In the past, some people used skin lightening creams or bleach although this method has fallen out of fashion.  Most of the lightening creams use the medicine hydroquinone to bleach the skin but can cause blisters and skin reactions.

Freezing the Skin (Cryotherapy) is another way that has been tried to eliminate the age spots.  This treatment uses liquid nitrogen to destroy the extra pigment and is usually used only on very small spots.  This may irritate the skin and poses a slight risk of permanent scarring or discoloration.

Laser skin resurfacing is considered the safest and most effective way to remove the age spots.  Laser skin resurfacing is used to remove the top layers of skin to allow the healthy skin cells in underlying layers to rise to the surface.  This treatment destroys the melanin-producing cells without damaging the tissue.  This will remove the spots permanently and has few side effects other than a lightening of the skin temporarily.

Laser Skin Resurfacing for Age Spots in Tampa

In the Tampa area, there are many providers that offer laser skin resurfacing but be sure to choose a well-qualified practitioner that has experience removing age spots.  At the Jasin Facial Rejuvenation Institute, Dr. Michael Jasin prefers to use the Erbium YAG laser for laser skin resurfacing procedures.  Dr. Jasin is a board-certified facial plastic surgeon with many years of experience treating skin damage to remove wrinkles, age spots and to help improve the appearance of the skin.  He feels that the Erbium laser offers more versatility and he can target the damaged skin more effectively.  For patients, this means that there is less anesthesia needed for this outpatient procedure and the laser requires less healing time than other types of laser therapy.

If you are interested in learning more about how to remove age spots using laser skin resurfacing, please contact the Jasin Facial Rejuvenation Institute to schedule a complimentary consultation with Dr. Jasin.  The Jasin Facial Rejuvenation Institute is a fully accredited medical facility under the direction of Dr. Michael Jasin. Dr. Jasin is a highly respected, board-certified facial plastic surgeon with over 30 years of experience. The medical team is highly trained and specializes in facial cosmetic surgery and injectable procedures. Call (813) 975-3223 today to schedule your complimentary visit or go to our website for more information www.JasinFacial.com

A Simplicity Facelift is a cosmetic surgery procedure available in Tampa designed to help men and women to attain a more youthful facial appearance.  As we get older, our skin commonly loses elasticity and begins to sag.  Once the skin becomes lax, wrinkles will form, the cheeks become hollow and the underlying fat tissue will often gather along the jaw line forming jowls.  A Simplicity Facelift can address all these issues to help you look naturally younger.

What is a Simplicity Facelift?

A Simplicity Facelift is a procedure that was developed by facial plastic surgeon, Dr. Michael Jasin.  Dr. Jasin has been in practice for over 30 years in the Tampa region and was seeking a way to provide a less invasive type of face lift surgery.  Traditional facelift surgery can be very extensive requiring multiple incisions and a long period of recovery.  Dr. Jasin patented a special ‘pulley-stitch’ that allows him to lift the skin, underlying tissue and muscle to tighten up the skin and provide a younger, more natural appearance.

The Simplicity Lift offers many of the same benefits of traditional surgery but entails only two small incisions made above and behind the ears.  This allows Dr. Jasin to access the muscles in order to tauten up the facial muscles that have become too loose to hold the skin firmly in place.  Unlike some other ‘mini facelifts’ such as the Lifestyle Lift or laser lifts, this procedure addresses all the layers that have create the wrinkles and sagging.  The other procedures that advertise less invasive surgery often work only on the outer layers of skin to provide a temporary fix, whereas the Simplicity Lift is a long term solution.

The Benefits of the Simplicity Facelift

The Simplicity Facelift can help you to look younger by tightening and lifting the cheeks and firming up the neck.  It will help to minimize jowls and create a more defined jawline.  Because the procedure is less invasive than traditional facelift surgery, the downtime is significantly reduces and there is very minimal scarring.  The procedure is done on an outpatient basis and takes less than a couple of hours in the office to complete under local anesthesia.

The Simplicity Facelift is a proprietary procedure that is only available at the Jasin Facial Rejuvenation Institute in Tampa.  Dr. Jasin and his medical staff have perfected this signature surgery to provide the most natural results.  With some facelift operations, the patient can look overly stretched or “plastic” but the Simplicity Lift will tighten the skin and underlying muscle enough to reduce wrinkles and reduce jowls while not overdoing it to the point where it appears unnatural.  Dr. Jasin and his medical team are well known for their excellent work in helping patients to achieve their desired look with the least invasive methods possible.

Is a Simplicity Facelift Right for You?

If you are interested in learning more about the Simplicity Facelift procedure and want to determine if it is right for you, please call the Jasin Facial Rejuvenation Institute to schedule a complimentary consultation with Dr. Jasin.  The Jasin Facial Rejuvenation Institute is a fully accredited medical facility under the direction of Dr. Michael Jasin. Dr. Jasin is a highly respected, board-certified facial plastic surgeon with over 30 years of experience. The medical team is highly trained and specializes in facial cosmetic surgery and injectable procedures. Call (813) 975-3223 today to schedule your complimentary visit or go to our website for more information www.JasinFacial.com

Many women in Tampa find that at a certain age, they have excess facial tissue that neither diet nor exercise can fix.  This is because the fullness that creates jowls and turkey neck is not a result of too much food, but rather a consequence of age, skin damage and gravity.  Facial liposuction is a solution that many never consider as they assume that dieting will help to eliminate the pockets of fat in the lower face.  However, facial liposuction may be the only way to eliminate the extra tissue.  This procedure can help you appear both thinner and younger at the same time.

Why Consider Facial Liposuction?

When we are young, there is a beneficial layer of fat that lies under the surface layer of facial skin.  This is what gives us the beautiful plump cheeks of youth and presents the lovely smooth (wrinkle-free) skin that we have in our early 20’s.  This layer of fat is not considered a problem because it is usually well-distributed in people within a normal weight range.

As we get older, our connective tissue starts to break down and our skin no longer bounces back as quickly.  This can be a result of skin damage, such as that created by too much sun exposure, or a result of poor nutrition or any number of reasons that affect skin tone.  Once the collagen and elastin start to run down, the normal and healthy fat cells under the skin begin to slide.  Over time, this will allow pockets of fat to develop along the lower jaw, under the chin and in the neck.  This process is not due to overeating or lack of exercise, but both those factors can add more fat to the problem areas.

How Facial Liposuction Works

Once age and gravity have combined to create jowls, double chin or turkey neck, it is almost impossible to remove them without some outside help.  According to Dr. Michael Jasin of the Jasin Facial Rejuvenation Institute, facial liposuction is a way to eradicate these pockets of fat to slim down the face.  Facial liposuction can help both men and women in Tampa to remove this unwanted fat and create a more refined profile.  Once the fat pockets are gone, the angle between the neck and face is improved and the patient will generally look much younger than prior to the procedure.

Facial liposuction is much safer than ‘body’ liposuction because it involves a much smaller, finer cannula (or tube) that will remove fat without harming nearby tissue.  The incisions to allow access are extremely small and the areas that are treated are confined to a minute section of the lower face.  The cannula acts as a suction that removes fat cells. Once this is performed, the incisions are closed and the results are apparent within a week or so.   Once fat cells are removed, they never grow back, but they may enlarge with weight gain. Results are usually permanent so long as the patient’s weight remains stable.

Where to Get Facial Liposuction

While facial liposuction is considered a safe procedure, it should be done only by a qualified, experienced medical doctor working in an accredited medical facility.  In the Tampa area, Dr. Michael Jasin, a board-certified facial plastic surgeon, has been providing facial liposuction for patients for many years.   Facial liposuction can either be done as a “stand-alone” operation or as part of facelift or neck lift procedure.  The determination on whether facial liposuction alone will be the best course of treatment or if a face or neck lift is recommended can be decided after an examination to evaluate skin elasticity.

If you would like to learn more about facial liposuction and if it is right for you, please contact the Jasin Facial Rejuvenation Institute for a complimentary consultation.   The Jasin Facial Rejuvenation Institute is a fully accredited medical facility under the direction of Dr. Michael Jasin. Dr. Jasin is a highly respected, board-certified facial plastic surgeon with over 30 years of experience. The medical team is highly trained and specializes in facial cosmetic surgery and injectable procedures. Call (813) 975-3223 today to schedule your complimentary visit or go to our website for more information www.JasinFacial.com

People in Tampa seem to develop wrinkles more quickly than their friends up north because of our constant exposure to the sun.  However, there are solutions to help reduce wrinkles and eliminate deep furrows with the help of a qualified plastic surgeon.  One dermal filler that works well to reduce wrinkles is Radiesse, it is a unique compound that is both long lasting and effective on severe lines or creases.

How Does Radiesse Work to Reduce Wrinkles?

Radiesse is a dermal filler that is injected into the skin to fill in lines by adding volume beneath the dermal tissue.  There are many different types of fillers on the market today and each has its strengths and unique features.  Dermal fillers are made with a variety of substances such as collagen, hyaluronic acid or fat which will plump up the skin.   Radiesse, in particular, is made up of calcium-based microspheres suspended in a gel-like solution.

The tiny spheres that are in Radiesse are made of calcium hydroxylapatite, a chemical that is naturally found in the body.  Radiesse is a somewhat thicker filler than those made with hyaluronic acid so it is used on deeper furrows or to add volume across larger areas of the face.  What sets Radiesse apart is that it stimulates the growth of new collagen, the protein in your skin that gives it a smooth texture and the elasticity to ward off wrinkles in the first place.  Radiesse is also considered one of the longest lasting dermal fillers.  According to Dr. Michael Jasin, a facial plastic surgeon in Tampa, Radiesse can continue working up to a year or 18 months before another treatment is necessary, whereas some other fillers may last only a few months to a half year.

What Areas of the Face will Radiesse Help to Reduce Wrinkles?

Radiesse is more often used on deep wrinkles and to restore the contours in areas such as the cheeks or lower face.  This dermal filler is great for filling in the nasolabial folds (more commonly known as laugh lines or smile lines that appear as parenthesis around the mouth).  It is also used to add volume to reduce wrinkles around the nose, cheeks, and mouth.  For people with sunken cheeks, Radiesse is often the best treatment to add long lasting plumpness.  Sunken cheeks can be caused by age (and gravity) or can also be caused by medical issues such as HIV or cancer.  Radiesse can be used to create the contours that are associated with both health and youth.

Is Radiesse Right for You?

Dr. Jasin explains that while Radiesse is extremely effective at reducing wrinkles in some areas, it is not the best choice for the fine, thin facial lines.  Therefore it is important to meet with a well-qualified facial plastic surgeon for a consultation prior to any treatment.  Dermal fillers are occasionally being offered outside of traditional medical settings and often at a discounted rate.  Beware!  All injectable products to treat wrinkles should be administered by a medical doctor in an accredited medical facility.

According to Dr. Jasin, administering fillers is “as much an art, as a science.”  The fillers must be placed exactly in the right area and in the right dosages to be effective.  Too much and the results can be disastrous or just look unnatural.  Dr. Jasin has been in practice for over 30 years and has taught other physicians across the country as well as overseas on the proper methods for using dermal fillers to restore a naturally youthful appearance.   He recommends that you visit the office so he can determine if Radiesse is the right filler for you or if another product or treatment will be better to create the look you desire.

If you would like to learn more about reducing wrinkles and if Radiesse is right for you, please contact the Jasin Facial Rejuvenation Institute for a complimentary consultation.   The Jasin Facial Rejuvenation Institute is a fully accredited medical facility under the direction of Dr. Michael Jasin. Dr. Jasin is a highly respected, board-certified facial plastic surgeon with over 30 years of experience. The medical team is highly trained and specializes in facial cosmetic surgery and injectable procedures. Call (813) 975-3223 today to schedule your complimentary visit or go to our website for more information www.JasinFacial.com

If you live in Tampa and are often in the sun, then you have probably already noticed the wrinkles between the eyes.   The 11’s are one of the most common wrinkles that appear around the eyes and are caused by facial expressions, age and normal skin damage.  While these wrinkles are hard to avoid, they are relatively easy to erase with the help of a good plastic surgeon.

What causes the Wrinkles between the Eyes?

The skin around the eyes is the thinnest and most delicate area of the face.  It is also an area that receives the greatest workout in the form of facial expressions, squinting and ordinary eye movement.  As we get older, or are exposed to any of the common factors (over exposure to sun, smoking, pollution, etc) that cause skin damage, we will start to see fine lines and creases appear around the eyes.  The 11’s in particular are often created by the movement of the muscles that run from the bridge of the nose to the forehead.  These facial muscles will contract when we are annoyed and angry or when we squint in the sun or to focus on a difficult task.  Over time, the vertical wrinkles will develop between the eyes – these wrinkles are known as the 11’s.

How to Avoid Wrinkles between the Eyes

If you have not yet noticed vertical lines between your eyes, then it is possible to hold off their appearance with a skin care regimen that includes drinking a lot of water, eating a healthy diet and using moisturizer with sunscreen liberally.   Always be careful to stay out of the drying sun of Tampa and if you are out in the elements, a hat and sunglasses can help protect the delicate skin around the eyes from premature aging.

As to avoiding facial expressions, this is a far more difficult task but it is often the overuse of the procerus muscle that causes the advent of the 11’s.  One way to help stave off the wrinkles is to use eyeglasses or readers rather than strain your eyes to read or look at small items.  Even if you do not have to use glasses yet, then be sure that you have enough light to avoid having to squint to see.  Squinting is often a culprit in the formation of the 11′s as well as crow’s feet on the outer edge of the eyes.  Also, being conscious of your facial expressions can help but it is not easy to prevent making a face when annoyed.

How to Eliminate Wrinkles between the Eyes

Once the wrinkles have formed, then there is really no cream or over the counter potion that can eliminate them.   However, according to Dr. Michael Jasin, a board-certified plastic facial surgeon, there are injectable products that can lessen and reduce the appearance of the stubborn 11’s.  An injection of Botox is a great way to not only decrease the wrinkles but can also help prevent new ones from forming during the treatment period.  Botox is a safe and effective neuro-toxin that will paralyze the procerus muscles to erase the lines that are already established.  A Botox treatment can last up to 3 or 4 months following an injection and has few side-effects if administered properly by a qualified medical professional.

For deeper 11’s, a dermal filler may be necessary to reduce the appearance of the wrinkles.  A dermal filler can be used alone or in addition to a Botox treatment.  Dermal fillers add volume to the skin to erase wrinkles or to add contour to areas where fat tissue has shifted.  There are a wide variety of dermal fillers on the market and each has its unique benefits.  For the areas around the eyes, Juvederm or Restylane can fill in the smaller, finer lines and restore a youthful appearance.   Dr. Jasin emphasizes that each patient is different and so each treatment plan should be individualized to provide the maximum benefits.  If you have wrinkles that you wish to eliminate, it is best to seek out a well-qualified facial plastic surgeon that can make a recommendation based on your skin type and severity of the problem.

As with any medical treatment, make sure that you work with an experienced medical professional that is trained on the proper way to inject Botox and/or dermal fillers.  According to Dr. Jasin, “a provider that understands the musculature of the face, will provide the patient with the best treatment.”  Poorly qualified technicians often inject too much Botox or Dermal Fillers and often do not inject in the right location which means the results may look fake or unnatural.”  At the Jasin Facial Rejuvenation Institute, the medical personnel are well trained to administer the correct dosages in order to provide the most natural results.

If you are interested in determining how to erase your facial wrinkles, please call the Jasin Facial Rejuvenation Institute to schedule a complimentary consultation.   The Jasin Facial Rejuvenation Institute is a fully accredited medical facility located in Tampa Florida. Medical Director, Dr. Michael Jasin, is a highly respected, board-certified facial plastic surgeon with over 30 years of experience. The medical team is well trained and specializes in facial cosmetic surgery and injectable procedures. Call (813) 975-3223 today to schedule your complimentary visit or go to our website for more information www.JasinFacial.com

It may seem to be unfair that attractiveness is a factor when seeking employment in Tampa.   If a candidate has the right skill set and experience, what difference can looks make?   According to many studies, an attractive person is perceived as being more qualified, more intelligent and more successful than someone who is unattractive.  While it may seem a bit extreme to some, a facelift can help a candidate look younger and more appealing to a hiring manager.

What Makes a Person Attractive?

Many studies have been done on the correlation between attractiveness and success.  Over and over, these studies show that for those endowed with above average beauty or handsomeness, there is also a greater likelihood of above average achievement.   Pretty people are perceived to be smarter, funnier, more accomplished, more confident, and more personable than those who have average or below average features.  Part of this may be due to a greater degree of self-assurance – those confident in their looks do tend to have better social skills as a result.

Attractiveness is often measured without conscious thought but there are common denominators across all cultures.  Facial symmetry and balance are important contributors to the perception of beauty.   Youthfulness is also a factor that is universally accepted as a marker of superior health and genetic superiority.   Scientists say that a preference for symmetry and youth is a highly evolved trait that is seen in both humans and animals alike.

How can a Facelift Improve Appearance

In the competitive job market, it is difficult to stand out based on qualifications alone.  There are so many people seeking employment that are equally educated, that the ability to project a lasting impression is important.  Generally the more attractive people have an edge in making an imprint on the hiring manager.  With this in mind, some people are making an investment in their appearance with the help of plastic surgery.

A facelift is a procedure that can reduce wrinkles and restore youthfulness.  The procedure lifts and tightens the cheeks and neck to remove facial creases.  A facelift can reduce jowls and create a more defined jaw line.  This is a way to improve appearance not just for the interview process but over a long term.  Patients that have had a facelift often say that they are happier and more confident following the surgery so there is more at play than simply getting a better job.   While a facelift cannot specifically address symmetry, it can be a generate enough of an improvement to make a difference in the job market.

A Simplicity Facelift is Available in Tampa

In the Tampa area, Dr. Michael Jasin has patented a facelift procedure that is less invasive and requires significantly less downtime.  Dr. Jasin is a board-certified facial plastic surgeon that created the Simplicity Lift.  The Simplicity Lift is done using only two small incisions rather than the more extensive multi-incision procedure of the traditional facelift.  The surgery allows the doctor to access the facial muscles and underlying tissue to tighten the facial features of the mid-face, lower jaw and neck area.  Dr. Jasin developed a special “pulley-stitch” that will hold the tissue in place for far longer than a mini-facelift  or laser lift.  With some of the mini-facelift procedures, the outer layer of skin is stretched but the sagging muscles are not addressed.  The Simplicity Lift offers all of the benefits of full surgery, but takes less time to complete and less time to recover.  This proprietary lift is only available at the Jasin Facial Rejuvenation Institute.

If you are interested in learning more about whether a Simplicity Lift is right for you, or if you would like to make any other facial improvements, please contact the Jasin Facial Rejuvenation Institute for a complimentary consultation.  The Jasin Facial Rejuvenation Institute is a fully accredited medical facility located in Tampa Florida. Medical Director, Dr. Michael Jasin, is a highly respected, board-certified facial plastic surgeon with over 30 years of experience. The medical team is well trained and specializes in facial cosmetic surgery and injectable procedures. Call (813) 975-3223 today to schedule your complimentary visit or go to our website for more information www.JasinFacial.com

There are many different techniques that come under the heading of “facelift.” This can be confusing for the consumer as they research what facelift technique is best for them. Certainly not all facelifts are created equal. I have been performing facelift surgery for over 30 years. The following composition explains how our current technique of choice, the Simplicity Lift, evolved and the key components that set it apart from more traditional facelifts. 

For many years the term “facelift” conjured up images of large incisions and lengthy surgery with prolonged recovery and downtime. Over the years, the demand for less invasive methods with less downtime has increased. Patients are requesting (sometimes demanding) a simplified version of a traditional facelift, which makes for an easier recovery for the patient, in addition to less downtime and a natural, rejuvenated appearance, which does not look overdone or surgical.

What is a facelift? You can think of a facelift in terms of a cheek and neck lift as it really focuses on the lower face and neck. Many people have the misconception that a facelift includes an eyelid lift and a brow or forehead lift. This is not so. Blepharoplasty (eyelid lifts) and forehead lifts are distinctly different procedures from a facelift. Although not inherently part of a facelift, they can be performed at the same time as a facelift. A neck lift, clinically referred to as a submentoplasty, can be incorporated into a facelift to maximize improvement in the neck.

Let’s talk about the basic fundamentals that go into a facelift. First, there needs to be adequate exposure to be able to effectively complete the work. Older techniques entailed an incision extending from the temple to the front of the ear, behind the ear, and then into the scalp behind the ear. When incisions are that long, the skin flaps that result may not have enough blood supply which can lead to delayed healing or skin necrosis (a complication which results in the death of skin tissue).

Shorter incisions are less likely to have blood supply and scarring issues. However, the incisions need to be long enough to be able to perform the maneuvers that will elevate and suspend the lax, sagging tissues of the cheeks, jawline and neck. In my opinion, if the incision in front of the ear doesn’t extend to behind the ear then there isn’t enough exposure of the muscle in the neck, called the platysma muscle, to get adequate tightening of the platysma which will compromise the results seen in the neck. Extending the incision into the crease behind the ear (postauricular sulcus) also allows for better redraping of skin in the neck. I have tried to work with an incision that is in front of the ear only and the results are not as good.

The key to successful facelifting is how the surgeon deals with what is known as the SMAS (an abbreviation for superficial muscular aponeurotic system), which is a fibromuscular layer of tissue in the cheek and neck. It is important for this layer of tissue to be elevated sufficiently to obtain an adequate “release” from its underlying attachments, which will allow for more freedom of movement or mobility of the SMAS, which in turn will allow for better advancement or lifting of the SMAS. An inadequate release will limit the amount of movement of the SMAS and, therefore, will result in less lifting of the tissues.

The fixation or suspension of the SMAS is another fundamental of facelifting. Studies have shown (after evaluating five different fixation sites) that the most stable fixation point in facelifting is the tissue overlying an arch of bone in front of the ear called the zygomatic arch. That is why we use this as the suspension point for the Simplicity Lift.

The vector or direction of the lift should be vertical, not back. As we age, the tissues descend in a vertical direction, not forward. So if we want to reposition the facial and neck tissues more where they used to be, it would make sense for the lifting vector to be vertical. This, in turn, will usually provide some added support to the mid face, as well.

I have found that how the fixation is done is very important, as well. Experience with thousands of facelift cases has shown us that using a suture technique known as a “figure of eight” (which we refer to as a pulley stitch) allows for better tightening of the tissue with less tendency for the tissue to tear or give way than a single loop of suture with a knot.

For better contouring, it is very common for some degree of liposuction to be done in the areas of the jowls and/or the neck. This helps to produce a more angular jawline and better definition of the angle between the neck and chin.

If the aging of the neck is more advanced, then many patients will benefit from the simultaneous performance of a neck lift or submentoplasty. The neck lift entails the surgical removal of a fat pad below the platysma muscle and the suturing of the two muscles together known as a “plication.” This will produce a continuous muscle sling of support, which will result in a more defined angle between the neck and chin.

Finally, the skin closure should be done without tension of the suture line. This will result in a fine line scar, which will be very hard to see.

There are many nuances to facelifting that can make or break the outcome for the patient. With the Simplicity Lift, I have tried to incorporate all of the basic fundamentals of the procedure. This technique is designed to maximize the benefit to the patient while minimizing downtime and providing the patient with very natural appearing results.

(Authored by Dr. Michael Jasin)

The modern era of laser skin resurfacing began in the early 1990’s. At that time the primary laser being used was the carbon dioxide (CO2) laser. One of the problems that was encountered with the then available methods of delivery was excessive thermal (heat) energy. To compensate for this undesirable side effect, alternative delivery systems were produced. These included scanners, which would move the beam around a given area typically in a spiral shape. The theory behind this was that if the laser beam were kept moving the dwell time (the amount of time that the laser was kept in contact with the skin) would be reduced thus reducing the degree of thermal injury. Another technology that was utilized for the same purpose was delivering the laser energy in extremely short pulses. This did produce less heat damage to the skin and actually proved to be superior to the scanned technology. 

Prior to the advent of laser resurfacing the main modalities that were used for this purpose were dermabrasion and chemical peels. Dermabrasion has been used since the 1950’s and involved mechanically removing skin typically using a wire brush or a microstudded cylinder called a fraise, which would be set into rapid rotation using a power handpiece. Dermabrasion was used effectively for the treatment of lines, wrinkles, and acne scars for many years. The problem with dermabrasion was consistency as it was very user dependent. Dermabrasion was, also, very messy with significant blood splatter. With the increase in individuals with a diagnosis of HIV or hepatitis there were various reasons why dermabrasion lost popularity and laser resurfacing gained favor.

The other popular method that existed prior to laser skin resurfacing was chemical peeling. This typically entailed the application of an acidic compound such as TCA (trichloroacetic acid) or phenol acid (a stronger acid solution) based peels. These peels chemically remove layers of skin to make it smoother. The depth of the peel would be dictated by the strength of the solution applied. Ten to thirty percent TCA peels are typically lighter where phenol based peels produce a deeper wound that takes longer to heal. Other materials, such as Jessner’s solution, are sometimes added to TCA peels to boost their strength. Current thinking is that the croton oil added to phenol based peels may have more to do with the peeling process than the phenol itself.

The desire to achieve greater precision with skin resurfacing made resurfacing with lasers very attractive. Lasers resurface skin through a process of vaporization rather than mechanically or chemically as we did with dermabrasion and chemical peels.

In the mid 1990’s another wavelength (or color) of laser was introduced for skin resurfacing, known as the Erbium: YAG (Er: YAG) laser. The basis for laser resurfacing is a process of selective absorption of the laser energy by the water in our skin. Water makes up 70% of our skin. The difference between the CO2 and Erbium: YAG laser is that the Er: YAG is absorbed 13 times better by water or 70% better by our skin. This enhanced absorption of the Er: YAG laser means that the vaporization process is more efficient. Therefore, the amount of energy that just heats tissue but doesn’t vaporize it is greatly reduced. This, in turn, means a much smaller zone of thermal injury (heat damage) that is invisible. The Erbium laser has been described as more of a what you see is what you get because the visible injury that is produced more closely correlates with the actual depth of injury.

One of the drawbacks to CO2 laser resurfacing is trying to gauge the depth of the injury produced when you can’t see the extent of this heat injury. The physical characteristics of the Erbium laser are such that the surgeon can much more accurately assess the depth of treatment. The greater the depth of treatment the more prolonged the healing time and the greater the risk of side effects. To some degree, deeper lines, wrinkles and acne scars can be more successfully treated with a deeper treatment than a more superficial one. However, if the depth of treatment is too great then the incidence of scarring and/or hypopigmentation (loss of pigment) is increased. The greater control of the depth of the injury by the surgeon makes it a much more reliable and safer procedure for the patient.

Over the years, there have been two fallacies that have been propagated in laser resurfacing literature that I would like to address. One is the misconception that the Erbium laser is better for light lines or more superficial acne scares, and the CO2 laser is better for deeper problems. The truth is that for the last 15 years I have been able to treat superficial and deeper skin texture abnormalities as well as or better than the CO2 laser with less redness, less prolonged redness and less potential for hypopigmentation.

The other misconceived notion is that the heat injury associated with the CO2 laser equates to more remodeling and tightening of skin collagen. In my opinion, it is the depth of the injury that stimulates collagen more so than heat. Chemical peels and dermabrasion don’t produce heat, but we see collagen remodeling with them as much as we do with CO2 resurfacing. My feeling is that if I can provide my patients with a better outcome and lessen the potential for side effects I will do so. That is why I prefer the Erbium: YAG laser over the CO2.

Finally, let’s discuss the currently popular fractionated lasers. The idea here is to produce islands of treated vs. untreated skin allowing for rapid healing and less potential for side effects. Both the Er: YAG and CO2 wavelengths are used in fractionated laser resurfacing. The problem is that in order to produce little to no downtime the results that are seen are quite subtle. If the energy levels are turned up to maximize the improvement then the healing time is still in the range of 7-10 days. The same can be accomplished with the Erbium laser. With lower energy you can heal over a weekend, and with higher energy we can treat more advanced wrinkles and scars, or we can treat in between the two.

The Erbium: YAG laser allows us the latitude to match up the parameters to the patient’s needs in order to minimize their downtime and maximize their results. An advantage of the Er: YAG ablative laser resurfacing vs. fractionated lasers is the greater impact on the aging and sun damaged epidermis (top layer of skin) that is not treated as thoroughly by fractionated lasers.

(Authored by Dr. Michael Jasin)

Most people in Tampa start developing fine lines and small wrinkles as early as their late twenties or early thirties.  This is because of more frequent exposure to the drying rays of the sun, but there is a way to reduce wrinkles before they become more noticeable.  A new dermal filler called Belotero, is specially designed to reduce wrinkles and fill in small lines found in delicate areas of the face.

Why Try to Reduce Small Wrinkles?

Often people are not concerned with tiny wrinkles and do not seek treatment until the lines become more noticeable.  However, treating wrinkles when they are just starting can help you look younger for longer than those that do not take any action.   Once the evidence of aging appears, the damage is already done and no over the counter product can reverse the process.  The small creases mean that the skin has lost some of its moisture and elastin that keeps it supple.  Dermal fillers that contain hyaluronic acid, such as Belotero, can help to stimulate collagen growth that will allow the skin to keep moisture more easily.  This means that fewer wrinkles will form as a result.

How Belotero Works to Reduce Wrinkles

Belotero is a dermal filler that is made of hyaluronic gel.  It is less dense than other fillers so it works better to reduce very fine lines and can be used in areas where the skin is very thin.  For example, Belotero is an excellent choice to treat the perioral lines (otherwise known as smokers lines) around the mouth.  These small, but usually multiple, vertical lines are created by repeated puckering of the lips such as the action required by smoking.  Smoking also dries out the skin, so it is no surprise that it is a contributing factor in the formation of wrinkles.

This new filler is used to treat crow’s feet around the eyes, soften wrinkles around the bridge of the nose, and fix the creases that develop along the lips.  It is a subtle filler that mimics the feel of natural skin and can be injected in tiny amounts which is useful for those with thin or fine skin.  Belotero can be used alone or along with another dermal filler to reduce wrinkles in other areas of the face.  Because it is easy to layer, Belotero can be used as a perfect “top layer” over other products that address deeper creases.  A denser filler such as Radiesse or Juvederm can be used to add volume to the “valley” of the wrinkle with a topping of Belotero to provide a more natural look near the surface.

Reduce Wrinkles with Natural Results

Belotero is a subtle filler and so it can be used on younger patients and on those with thinner skin.  An injection can reduce wrinkles to make the patient look younger, but not noticeably different in appearance.  As with all dermal fillers, the injections should be done only by a well-qualified medical professional in an accredited medical facility.  Hyaluronic acid is a substance that is naturally present in the human body so dermal fillers made of HA are generally very safe to use.  However, it is important to work with a provider that has many years of experience using dermal fillers to get the best results.  According to Dr. Michael Jasin, a board-certified facial plastic surgeon in Tampa, there is as much of an art as a science to injecting dermal fillers.  Dr. Jasin states that “inexperienced providers often place too much filler or do not inject the filler into the right dermal layer.”  This means that the results may look unnatural or be dangerous if not done properly.

If you are interested in learning if Belotero or another dermal filler is the correct treatment to improve your appearance, please contact the Jasin Facial Rejuvenation Institute for a complimentary consultation.  The Jasin Facial Rejuvenation Institute is a fully accredited medical facility located in Tampa Florida. Medical Director, Dr. Michael Jasin, is a highly respected, board-certified facial plastic surgeon with over 30 years of experience. The medical team is well trained and specializes in facial cosmetic surgery and injectable procedures. Call (813) 975-3223 today to schedule your complimentary visit or go to our website for more information www.JasinFacial.com

Twenty years ago, doctors in Tampa were hesitant to recommend a facelift for anyone younger than 50 years old.  This was because the traditional facelift surgery at that time necessitated a high lateral pull and often caused an elevation of the hairline.  It was not uncommon for patients to experience a loss of hair that would cause them to look older, rather than younger.  Now, new facelift techniques make a world of difference and allow younger women to reduce wrinkles without the need for extensive surgery.

New Facelift Techniques

There have been many advances in facelift surgery that make the procedure safer and less invasive for women of all ages.  An accomplished surgeon can now perform a facelift that does not involve excessive stretching of the skin and will not negatively change anatomic features.  Dr. Michael Jasin, a facial plastic surgeon in Tampa, developed a new facelift technique called the Simplicity Lift that requires only two small incisions above and behind the ears to perform a complete facelift.  The Simplicity Lift offers many of the same benefits of traditional surgery but takes less time to perform and cuts the recovery time substantially.

The Simplicity Lift was a break-through in facelift surgery.  Dr. Jasin patented a special pulley stitch that helps to lift and hold the outer facial skin as well as the underlying muscle and tissue.  Unlike other “mini-facelift” procedures such as the Lifestyle Lift which only address the dermal layers, the Simplicity Lift provides a long-lasting reduction in facial wrinkles and looks entirely natural.

How a Simplicity FaceLift Improves Appearance

The Simplicity Facelift procedure will lift and tighten the cheeks and neck.  It will minimize jowls and create a defined jaw line.   It reduces wrinkles in the mid to lower facial region and can restore the appearance of youth.  The patient needs only local anesthesia and the recovery time is relatively quick compared to the more extensive traditional surgery.  Once completed, the Simplicity Lift leaves minimal scars that are usually well-hidden by the hairline.

According to Dr. Jasin, the procedure can be safely performed on women of all ages without fear of adverse effects.   However, a facelift may not be the only option for a woman who wishes to reduce wrinkles and improve appearance.  There are non-surgical facelift options available as well as treatment with injectable fillers that can mimic the results of surgery.  He recommends an initial consultation so that he can examine the patient and discuss all the available options before scheduling any procedure.

Choose Your Facelift Surgeon Wisely

As with any medical procedure, it is important to work with a well-qualified physician that has many years of experience performing the procedure.  Always be sure to seek a plastic surgeon that is willing to discuss the options in advance and gives time to answer any and all questions.  Look for a surgeon that works in an accredited medical facility and who specializes in the type of surgery you seek.  Ask for testimonials from prior patients and take a look at before and after photos to get a better feel for what you can expect from your surgery.

As to the optimal age for facelift surgery, that is up to you and the doctor to decide.   Whether to undergo a facelift depends not on the age, but rather on the condition of the skin and the degree of aging that has already taken place.  For those that have had a lot of exposure to the sun, or who are affected by premature aging, a facelift can greatly improve appearance and provide a naturally younger countenance.   The actual age of the patient is not as important as the condition of the facial skin and the extent of the wrinkling.

Dr. Jasin notes that he has seen some patients in their early 40’s with jowls, severe wrinkles and midfacial descent that could be helped by a Simplicity Facelift procedure.  Other patients in their 60’s may have better skin tone and not need a surgery to reduce wrinkles.  It simply depends on the degree of facial aging to determine what procedure is best for the patient and on the patient’s desires for improvement.

If you are interested in determining if facelift surgery is for you, please call the Jasin Facial Rejuvenation Institute to schedule a complimentary consultation with Dr. Jasin.  The Jasin Facial Rejuvenation Institute is a fully accredited medical facility located in Tampa Florida. Medical Director, Dr. Michael Jasin, is a highly respected, board-certified facial plastic surgeon with over 30 years of experience. The medical team is well trained and specializes in facial cosmetic surgery and injectable procedures. Call (813) 975-3223 today to schedule your complimentary visit or go to our website for more information www.JasinFacial.com