Besides the frown lines (vertical lines between the eyebrows) the forehead lines (horizontal wrinkles in forehead) are also a very common area to treat with Botox injections.  What may seem like a simple, one size fits all procedure is actually a treatment that requires good technique to get great results.

As we age, our brows and upper eyelids rely on the forehead muscle to keep the area elevated and supported.  If the correct amount of Botox is not used in the forehead you can get too much lift or too little, which can result in a very unappealing look.  Too much Botox for the forehead and the patient experiences a heaviness of the eyelids and eyebrows and has little or no ability to animate (move their forehead muscles up).  Too little Botox or a lack of proper technique for injecting the right amount of Botox into each muscle can result in asymmetry (uneven looking brow or eyelid lift).

Read About All Celibre's Facial Shaping Techniques

NOT A CELIBRE PATIENT.  PATIENT WAS INJECTED BY ANOTHER PHYSICIAN WITH 50 UNITS OF BOTOX FOR THE FOREHEAD RESULTING IN BROW AND EYELID DROOP.

In the case above, the patient had 50 units of Botox injected by another physician before coming to Celibre.  This Botox for the forehead resulted in a heavy, tired look with the patient's eyelids and brow drooping and resting almost entirely on the bone above the eye orbit.  This certainly smoothed the horizontal forehead lines, but left her with much too much droop around the eyes.  Botox injections for a forehead usually do not require more than 20 units and most times require much less than that.  When using 50 units in the forehead, there is no way to simultaneously create a smoothing of the forehead wrinkles and at the same time create the chemical browlift discussed in our other blog article, http://www.celibre.com/Celibreblog/post/2008/11/botox-browlift.aspx.

Lori Haney, RN, MEP-C

Certified Medical Laser Safety Officer

Botox injections are not associated with any downtime.  In fact, many people return to work or their regular routine immediately following Botox injections.   As with any cosmetic injection, there is always a risk of bruising – some areas more so than others.  Even with meticulous technique, bruising is sometimes unavoidable during Botox injections.  For this reason, it is prudent to have treatments done one to two weeks before a special event.   Speak with your practitioner about simple measures to help minimize the risk of bruising prior to your scheduled treatment.  Overall, Botox injections are uneventful, but the outcomes are quite impressive!

Lori Haney, RN, MEP-C

Certified Medical Laser Safety Officer

The group of facial muscles between the eyes that contribute to the frown lines (also commonly referred to as the “11’s”) is the most common area treated with Botox injections.  By relaxing these strong, hyperactive muscles with Botox injections, we are able to achieve a natural, smoothing of this area.  This resultz in a more refreshed appearance as the medial (inner) eyebrows lift rather than pulling downward and in.

For wrinkles/folds that do not completely resolve with Botox injections, a small amount of filler (ex:  Juvederm, Restylane) enhances the results by adding volume to fill the fold and smooth the skin.  Botox relaxes the underlying problem whereas fillers like Restylane and Juvederm restore volume.  It is the perfect combination of the correct technique and appropriate product and volume that provides pleasing outcomes.

Read About All Celibre's Facial Shaping Techniques

Find out more about the Los Angeles Botox injections – www.celibre.com/botox.aspx. 

Schedule your FREE Botox Los Angeles consultation, www.celibre.com/contactlist.aspx.  

Lori Haney, RN, MEP-C

Certified Medical Laser Safety Officer

As we age, most of us experience a heaviness doopiness in the brow area and eyelids.  It may appear as if the eyebrows are lower on the face.  The upper eyelids become heavier and more hooded, and a sleepy or tired look is looking back at you in the mirror.   In many cases, a surgical brow lift or blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery) is ideal and offers long-term, if not, permanent results.

For many that do not want to consider surgery, a good option is a Botox brow lift.  Although Botox does not address the issue of sagging or loose skin, it is extremely beneficial in relaxing key facial muscles that pull the face down and in.  Relaxing these facial muscles with Botox has a lifting appearance on the upper eyelid and brow.

When using Botox Cosmetic, facial muscles are generally divided in two categories.  The first group is brow elevators and the second is brow depressors.  By targeting the brow depressors (those muscles pulling down on the brow) with Botox, the muscles become relaxed enough to provide a beautiful, natural lifting of the brow.  This is achieved by proper dosing and meticulous technique into the muscles between the brows and the strong muscle surrounding the eyes.  This Botox brow lift results in a nice natural arching of the brows, smoothing of the “crow’s feet”, and a more refreshed appearance for the eyes.

Most patients are concerned with a “done” or unnatural look when considering Botox treatments.  However, our goal is for you to look in the mirror and recognize a more youthful you. 

Lori Haney, RN, MEP-C

Certified Medical Laser Safety Officer

Botox Cosmetic is very effective in relaxing the muscles that cause fine lines and wrinkles.  Most patients benefit from Botox injections for approximately 3 to 4 months.  Our practitioners and patients agree that consistent use of Botox (every 3-4 months to start) generally leads to either less Botox required or a longer time between Botox injections.

Because some muscles are much stronger than others, certain areas of the face will break down Botox more quickly.  For example, Botox around the mouth to soften or resolve vertical lines (smoker’s lines) may only last 6 to 8 weeks.  However, the outcome is very pleasing to most patients, and this area only requires a very small amount of Botox.  Therefore, most will consider this a worthwhile procedure despite the short lifespan.  Other ares of the face last longer (months rather than weeks), including injections for the glabella area between the eyes.

Read About All Celibre's Facial Shaping Techniques

Botox Los Angeles, Celibre Medical, www.celibre.com/botox.aspx.  

Free consultations for Los Angeles Botox - www.celibre.com/contactlist.aspx.

Los Angeles Botox Injections for glabella (between eyes).  More Los Angeles Botox before and after pictures at www.celibre.com/botoxba.aspx.

Lori Haney, RN, MEP-C

Certified Medical Laser Safety Officer

A good faith exam is a brief meeting wherein the physician (or an advanced practice practitioner such as a Nurse Practitioner or Physician Assistant) assesses the patient, makes note of their history, and explains the procedure prior to the first treatment at that particular facility BEFORE a Botox, Restylane, etc. injection is undertaken.  Thereafter, no further exams are required and those that are properly licensed medical professionals may then administer all future treatments.  This exam is part of the intake and medical history required to provide a prescription for the patient (Botox, Restylane, etc. are all prescription pharmaceutical products).

Each state dictates its own legislation through their State Medical Board and/or Board of Registered Nursing to determine the scope of practice for those performing medical procedures.  Currently, California has determined that the administration of Botox Cosmetic must be carried out only by a Registered Nurse (RN), Physician Assistant (PA), Nurse Practitioner (NP), or Physician (MD).  In addition, if the physician is not the practitioner performing the first Botox, Restylane, etc. procedure, it is mandated that a “Good Faith Exam” must be performed by the physician overseeing the practice or by an individual with an advanced practice degree (Nurse Practitioner or Physician Assistant) before the first Botox, Restylane, etc. injection may take place.  For example, if the nurse is going to perform the injections, it is required that the good faith exam be completed by the advanced practitioner - MD, PA or NP - before the injections may commence.

Read About All Celibre's Facial Shaping Techniques

Celibre's Botox and Restylane Los Angeles injections program, www.celibre.com/wrinkles.aspx. 

Schedule a FREE Botox Los Angeles consultation, www.celibre.com/contactlist.aspx.

More Botox and Restylane Los Angeles before and after pictures at www.celibre.com/botoxba.aspx.

Although this requirement may seem uneventful and more of an inconvenience for patients and practitioners alike, we believe that it is a very necessary step in ensuring that current California legislation is respected and carried out as mandated.  For those practitioners who knowingly disregard current state requirements or plead ignorance, we would call into question their ethics and also mention that they are breaking the law. 

Patients, consumers, and all practitioners should be concerned with this "good faith exam" issue for Botox, Restylane and other injectables as state requirements continue to evolve to keep pace with this growing practice of medicine.

For insurance reasons, we are not allowed to provide any laser treatments or injection treatments like Botox and Restylane if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

This does not mean that any side effects would be seen from the Botox or Restylane injections, just that it is a precautionary measure that we take to ensure safety for patients and for the organization.

Read About All Celibre's Facial Shaping Techniques

Learn more about Los Angeles Botox, Restylane and Juvederm injections, www.celibre.com/wrinkles.aspx. 

Schedule a free Los Angeles Botox, Restylane or Juvederm consultation, www.celibre.com/contactlist.aspx.

Los Angeles Botox, Restylane and Juvederm before and after pictures visit www.celibre.com/botoxba.aspx, www.celibre.com/restylaneba.aspx, www.celibre.com/juvedermba.aspx.

Take a look a tthe photo below.  This well known actress appears to have had some injection work done, most likely Botox and fillers which have created some unintended consequences. 

First the Botox.  On the side fo the nose, she has what is commonly referred to in the industry as "bunny lines".  Bunny lines appear on the side of the nose most often in response to utilizing too much Botox Cosmetic to the forehead and brow area.  You're probably saying to yourself, How does Botox injected in the forehead cause lines around the nose?  Well, Botox relaxes the muscles it is injected into so that wrinkles smooth out and disappear.  But when the muscles injected are relaxed too much, it can cause other muscles to work harder to animate the face (smile, frown, etc.).  As these "unopposed muscles" strengthen in response to the overuse of Botox in other areas, they can create unintended consequences, such as the bunny lines. This wrinkling of the sides of the nose looks unnatural.

Read About All Celibre's Facial Shaping Techniques

Los Angeles Botox injections by Celibre Medical, learn more at www.celibre.com/botox.aspx.  

Schedule a free consultation for Botox Los Angeles - www.celibre.com/contactlist.aspx.

Los Angeles Botox Injections for frown lines around the mouth. 

Botox Los Angeles before and after photos, www.celibre.com/botoxba.aspx. 

Los Angeles Restylane Injections Before and After Photos, www.celibre.com/restylaneba.aspx.

Now bring your attention to her mouth. It would appear that her injector augmented (filled) the pink part of the mouth without also addressing the vermillion border which is the area wherein the pink of the lip is outlined by the white part of the mouth..  When the lips are injected in the body rather than the border, they tend to "roll" over the teeth, giving the appearance of a swollen or fattened lip.  This is what makes them look unnatural.

Whether injecting Botox Cosmetic or cosmetic dermal fillers, the concept is to enhance the appearance of the face and to bring interest to an area using the natural form and contour of the patient's face.  In this case, that concept has been ignored resulting in an overdone appearance that invites negative attention.  To the untrained eye, most will only notice that something isn't quite right.  To an experienced practitioner, we think of all that should have been done differently.       

Lori Haney, RN, MEP-C

Certified Medical Laser Safety Officer 

Take a look at the attached photo.  You may notice that something just doesn’t look quite right about the facial expression – specifically the eye area.   It appears as if the eyes are being pulled up from the sides and creating a very unnatural and unappealing look. 

Most practitioners would agree after viewing this photo that this may be a classic example of poor technique for Botox injections.  Currently, licensed medical professionals (Regitered Nurses, Physician Assistants, Nurse Practitioners and Physicians) are the only personnel permitted to inject Botox Cosmetic.  Current California legislation requires that those that aren’t the physician, practice under the direction of a physician with Standardized Procedures and Protocols.  So this addresses who is permitted to inject Botox Cosmetic.  However, the equally important question is who is qualified to do Botox injections?  We would like to suggest that legal qualification doesn’t equate to good Botox injection technique and safety.  For example, most consumers/patients believe that a physician administering Botox Cosmetic (or any injectable cosmetic products) provides a better outcome.   As the photo below shows, this may not always be the case.

Read About All Celibre's Facial Shaping Techniques

Celibre's Los Angeles Botox injections program, www.celibre.com/botox.aspx. 

Schedule a FREE Botox Los Angeles consultation, www.celibre.com/contactlist.aspx.

This is an example of what not to do with Botox and this person is NOT A CELIBRE MEDICAL BOTOX PATIENT. 

When deciding on  Botox injector, be an educated patient.  Ask lots of questions about your injectors experience and qualifications, and make sure that you feel involved in the education process.  To learn more about Los Angeles Botox injections at Celibre visit www.celibre.com/botox.aspx.  You can also view Botox Los Angeles before and after pictures (Celibre patients) at www.celibre.com/botoxba.aspx.

So what went wrong?   An experienced eye will notice that only the sides of the forehead are pulling up with very little movement to the middle of the forehead.  The lateral (outside borders) of the eyebrows are pulling the lateral parts of the eyes up but doing little to the medial portion (inside) of the eyes.  This then creates a very peculiar look.  When only portions of an area of the face are treated (ex: the middle of the forehead), opposing muscles then become more active to compensate for the lack of movement or animation elsewhere. 

An experienced Botox injector practitioner would be mindful of how to treat areas to minimize this effect but provide a very appealing look at the same time.  Besides the correct Botox dosing, placement of the product is crucial in determining a good final result.  This knowledge comes from knowledge of facial anatomy and skiilled technique that is learned through training and experience.  When injected with the correct technique and dosing, Botox can yield a very natural, appealing look.

So…to answer the question of who is qualified to administer Botox Cosmetic…our answer is training and technique, not just title.

Lori Haney, RN, MEP-C, CMLSO 

Women aren't the only ones concerned with their appearance and who also use Botox, Restylane, Juvederm and Perlane.  Many men are just as concerned and aware about their appearance as women, but usually aren't quite as certain about what to do.   It is a common misconception that men are accepting of their changing appearance or are not concerned.  In our experience, men welcome an opportunity to have a trusted Botox, Restylane, Juvederm or Perlane practitioner listen to their goals and explain how they may be reached.

Read About All Celibre's Facial Shaping Techniques

Los Angeles Restylane, Botox, Juvederm and Perlane injections by Celibre Medical, www.celibre.com/wrinkles.aspx. 

Schedule a free Restylane Los Angeles consultation - www.celibre.com/contactlist.aspx.

Botox for men Los Angeles.  Los Angeles Botox for men before and after photos, www.celibre.com/botoxba.aspx.

The most common service that men seek out is Botox Cosmetic injections to soften and/or resolve forehead lines.  It is also common to use Botox for the area between the eyebrows and around the eye area.  In addition to Botox Cosmetic, which is a muscle relaxer, men can also benefit from cosmetic dermal fillers (hyaluronic acid) such as Juvederm, Restylane, and Perlane.  These fillers provide a natural, appealing look by filling areas of the face that have lost volume with age.  The most common areas treated are the hollows of the lower eye area (tear trough), nasolabial folds (often referred to as laugh lines), the marionette lines (the lines or pockets of depressions around the corners of the mouth and chin area).  Fillers like Perlane, Restylane and Juvederm are a nice way to compliment Botox Cosmetic treatments if a man continues to have very deep grooves/folds to the forehead even with the muscle relaxed from Botox. 

Celibre Medical offers a private, individualized consultation for men and women alike to express their goals for their appearance.  Our nursing team will offer the appropriate feedback and education as well as providing photos of actual patients that have benefited from services.  Remember, being motivated to look one's best should not be gender biased.  The face is a a valuable asset for both men and women alike.  To learn more about Celibre injection treatments, please visit http://www.celibre.com/skinrejoverview.aspx or http://www.celibre.com/PhotoGallery.aspx to view our photo gallery of all types of treatments.

Lori Haney, RN, MEP-C

Certified Medical Laser Safety Officer 

We talk often of how women can benefit from treatments such as Botox injections and dermal fillers such as Juvederm and Restylane.  But, little is mentioned about how men can also benefit from these services.  Although men usually aren't eager to talk about cosmetic treatments with others, it is not uncommon for them to be consistent users of Botox Cosmetic because of the good, consistent outcomes and improved appearance.  For example, men frequently have the forehead as well as the frown lines (glabella area) injected with Botox.  A smoothing out or complete resolution of forehead lines and wrinkles can take years off one's appearance - male and female alike.

Read About All Celibre's Facial Shaping Techniques

More about Celibre Medical Botox Los Angeles injections at www.celibre.com/botox.aspx. 

Schedule a free Los Angeles Botox consultation - www.celibre.com/contactlist.aspx.

Botox Men Los Angeles.  Los Angeles Botox for men before and after photos.  More Los Angeles Botox patients before and after photos at www.celibre.com/botoxba.aspx.

Men tend to have a very strong, over-active forehead muscle (frontalis).  The muscle takes sometimes has a thickened and/or raised (hypertrophy) appearance, similar to a bulging muscle.   After consistent use of Botox Cosmetic to relax this large muscle - the muscle mass becomes smaller resulting in dramatic reduction of the muscle mass and the lines it causes.  Besides treating the forehead and the area between the brows, men also benefit greatly from using Botox injections around the eye area to soften and/or resolve crows feet lines.

To learn more about Celibre Medical Botox injections, search our blog here or visit http://www.celibre.com/botox.aspx.  A free, private consultation is the first step in learning more about the many benefits of Botox Cosmetic.

Lori Haney, RN, MEP-C

Certified Medical Laser Safety Officer 

Many consumers are aware that Botox Cosmetic treats the "eleven's" (referring to the two vertical lines that develop between the eyebrows), but most aren't quite sure how Botox works on other areas of the face.

Botox Cosmetic is derived from a purified protein from the Clostridium botulinum bacterium.  This FDA-approved purified protein is formulated in a laboratory setting and should not be confused with the toxin botulism.  Because Botox Cosmetic works by blocking the neurotransmitter (the chemical in our bodies that sends messages to muscles) acetylcholine, it inhibits muscle contraction temporarily.  By relaxing specific muscle groups, the lines, wrinkles, and folds respond naturally by softening if not completely resolving.

Read About All Celibre's Facial Shaping Techniques

Frown Lines

The most common Botox injection site is the FDA-approved area called the Glabella between the eyes.  This area involves small muscles that are responsible for frown lines.  Although Botox Cosmetic is not currently FDA-approved for other facial areas, it is considered a common, acceptable standard to perform Botox injections to other areas of the face.  For example, Botox Cosmetic is routinely used to relax the forehead muscles to soften the horizontal lines and wrinkles and around the eyes to soften "crow's feet".

Los Angeles Botox injections by Celibre Medical, learn more at www.celibre.com/botox.aspx.  

Schedule a free consultation for Botox Los Angeles - www.celibre.com/contactlist.aspx.

Los Angeles Botox Injections for frown lines around the mouth. 

More Botox Los Angeles before and after photos, www.celibre.com/botoxba.aspx.

The Chemical Brow Lift (droopy/heavy eyelids)

What is a brow lift using Botox Cosmetic? This refers to a natural lifting of the eyebrow by relaxing very specific muscle groups in the forehead.  The muscles that tend to pull down and inward are the glabella areas (between the eyebrows) as well as the strong muscle that encircles the eyes (orbicularis occuli).  By relaxing these areas, a beautiful, natural lifting of the brow occurs which "opens"  the upper part of the face and presents a more refreshed, younger appearance.  At Celibre, we utilize a technique referred to as a "lateral brow lift."  This involves a small injection of Botox at the outer edge of each eyebrow.  By targeting this area specifically, most will see a subtle but noticeable lifting of the upper lid and eyebrows.  A natural arching of the eyebrows compliments the outcome.  

Eye Rejuvenation with Botox Cosmetic (crow's feet)

Using Botox injections around the eyes provides a dramatic effect by softening the strong muscle that encircles the eyes.  This muscle (orbicularis occuli) tends to contract down which results in those pesky fine lines around the sides and bottom portion of the eyes often referred to as "crow's feet."  By utilizing the lateral brow lift as discussed above, the results are a softening or resolving of the lines as well as a lifting of the upper lid and brow.   This produces a natural more youthful look because it resembles your facial expressions and appearance before the aging process became noticeable.

Botox Cosmetic for the Nose (bunny lines)

Wrinkling of sides of the nose is often referred to as "bunny lines."  There is a small muscle (nasal radix) that contributes to this.  Although the term "bunny lines" sounds cute...most women prefer not to have this wrinkling effect when smiling or animating.  Botox injections relax this area as well as soften and resolve the horizontal line across the bridge of the nose.

Mouth Rejuvenation using Botox Cosmetic (smoker's lines)

Many consumers as well as practitioners do not realize the benefits of Botox around the mouth.  As we age, the space between the bottom of the nose and the upper lip begins to flatten and lengthen.  Thinning of the upper lip becomes more pronounced and vertical lines in this area appear ("smoker's lines").  These lines are the result of a downward contraction of this strong mouth muscle (orbicularis oris) that produces a purse string-like effect.  By using a very small amount of Botox Cosmetic to this area, it's possible to soften/resolve these fine lines and provide a gentle rolling out or eversion of the upper lip.  Using fillers such as Juvederm or Restylane to the body of the mouth (pink part) or the vermillion border (outer shape of the mouth) with or without the Botox creates a smoother more natural and younger looking effect.   Keep in mind that a youthful mouth does not necessarily mean large, unnatural, pouty lips.  What looks attractive on a twenty-something does not look appealing on a forty-something man or woman.  

What is a Mouth Frown and How is it Resolved?

A "mouth frown" refers to downward pointing outer corners of the mouth.  Using fillers (ex: Restylane, Juvederm) to resolve this issue may not offer much improvement or may lead to pouches of filler product.  A good understanding of facial anatomy and assessment skills will aid the injector in determining if the DAO muscle (depressor angular oris) muscle is hyperactive and leading to this downward turn of the mouth.  By using a small amount of Botox Cosmetic in this area, it is possible to have the corners of the mouth lifted and restored to the correct location.  (see before and after pictures below for this technique).

The "pebble chin".

A pebble chin is a commonly occurring facial formation that looks like a dimpled chin.  Because of the facial musculature in this area the skin looks mottled and uneven.  The mentalis muscle of the chin takes on a dimpled or orange peel texture because it is hyperactive (or constantly flexed).  By using Botox injections, it is possible to soften this area and resolve the uneven textural changes.

At Celibre, our nursing staff participates in seminars, workshops, round tables, and we have an extensive library of reference materials.  Not only are we practitioners passionate about the artistry of injectables, we are also the ones receiving and testing out our own treatments.  A good injector understands that a face that does not animate is not appealing or natural.  The goal is to relax and enhance the face while maintaining expression...freedom of expression. 

To learn more about Celibre Injections, please visit http://www.celibre.com/wrinkles.aspx.

 Lori Haney, RN, MEP-C, CMLSO   

This is not only a common question but a common misconception.  Botox Cosmetic works by relaxing the muscle by inhibiting the neurotransmitter needed for muscle contraction.  This effect is very specific and temporary.   The goal of Botox injections is to relax the particular facial muscles that cause fine lines, wrinkles, and creases.  At Celibre, our team believes in achieving a natural look wherein some muscle function is maintained for animation and expression while minimizing the strong contractions of the muscles that lead to unwanted outcomes. 

To learn more about Celibre, an experienced Orange County and Los Angeles Botox Cosmetic provider, visit www.celibre.com/botox.aspx.   

Schedule a free Botox Los Angeles consultation at www.celibre.com/contactlist.aspx.

Read About All Celibre's Facial Shaping Techniques

Always express your concerns and questions to the Los Angeles Botox practitioner so that they may provide you with the appropriate feedback and education.  If they are not willing to involve you in this process, look for another facility that does. 

Los Angeles Botox Injections.  

Injections of Restylane and Botox to fill and shape the droopy look at the corners of the mouth.

Before and after pictures of actual Celibre Botox patients, go to www.celibre.com/botoxba.aspx.

Millions of people in the United States and across the nation receive Botox injections on a regular basis not only because of its proven safety record, but also because of the desired, predictable outcomes.

What defines attractive lips?  Society would have us believe that a well-defined, full mouth is desirable.  If this conjures up disturbing images of the infamous Bevery Hills look of unnatural, pouty, fish lips - you are not alone.  What may look good on a particular actress that is well-known for this feature is usually not attractive for the average person.  At Celibre, our practitioners believe that each patient should be able to express what they are hoping to achieve by using fillers (Restylane/Juvederm) to augment the lips and mouth.  By listening to each person's goals and assessing the patient on an individual basis, a tailored treatment plan is developed.  We believe in involving the patient in the education process so that they may better understand all of the amazing ways that Botox, Restylane, Juvederm and other fillers may enhance not only the mouth but the entire face as well. 

Read About All Celibre's Facial Shaping Techniques

For more information on Celibre Los Angeles and Orange County Botox, Restylane, Juvederm and Perlane injections visit www.celibre.com/wrinkles.aspx.

Los Angeles Restylane and Botox around the lips and mouth.  More Orange County and Los Angeles Restylane before and after photos, www.celibre.com/restylaneba.aspx. 

Back to the concept of lip/mouth augmentation:  

Fillers (hyaluronic acid) such as Restylane & Juvederm are used to add form and definition to the shape of the mouth by defining the borders of the lips.  This also can shape the corners of the mouth if they are turned down a bit or have lost volume.  Fillers are also used to add fullness to the pink part of the lip (mucosa).  By using a very small amount of product, we are able to achieve a smoothing out of lip wrinkles by adding volume.

To schedule a free consultation regarding injections for Botox, Restylane, Juvederm and/or Perlane at our Orange County or Los Angeles locations, please visit www.celibre.com/contactlist.aspx.

Generally, a natural look is exhibited by having the bottom lip slightly larger by proportion than the top.  This provides a more balanced appearance.  As we age, the space between the base of the nose to the top lip becomes larger and flattened.  The top lip tends to become thinner and contracts inward.  Restylane and Juvederm Fillers and help increase volume and restore the lip area to a create a more youthful appearance.

Often, women come into the practice concerned with the fine lines above and below the lips.  These lines are commonly referred to as "smoker's lines."  Although smoking does promote negative changes to the skin and prediposes one to early signs of aging-one doesn't have to be a smoker to experience this condition.  A common misconception that we hear is that this condition is related to using straws to drink with or puckering too much when sipping from water bottles or cups.  Women often will change their drinking habits to combat this problem!  It should be understood that these lines are a result of a hyperactive muscle that surrounds the mouth referred to as the orbicularis oris.  It has a purse string effect which means that the muscle, when contracting, wants to bring the lips in a puckering position.  As we age, this muscle becomes more active and begins to cause fine lines and wrinkles in the lips and around the mouth.  When adding volume like Restylane and/or Juvederm to the vermillion borders of the lips, the fine lines will diminish and appear less noticeable.  However, very few patients or practitioners realize that adding a small amount of Botox Cosmetic to this muscle will dramatically relax this area and smooth out the fine lines.  The concept is to treat the underlying problem (the muscle) in addition to filling the lip lines around the mouth.    The beauty of this technique is that it creates a very subtle, natural turning out of the upper lip when the muscle relaxes.  Some women see such nice results that they don't see the need to use fillers as well.  Some use a combination of both modalities to achieve the full effect.

There are many options for creating a more youthful appearing mouth and lips.  Make certain that your Los Angeles Botox or Restylane injector/practitioner is well versed in updated techniques and involves you in the education process. 

To learn more about Celibre injections such as Botox, Restylane and Juvederm for lips, mouth and other areas, please visit http://www.celibre.com/wrinkles.aspx.

The term "facial rejuvenation" is becoming more popular because there are so many treatments being offered that claim to offer this.  Rejuvenation of the face invovles texture improvement, resolution of facial discoloration (brown/red), pore size reduction, skin tightening, and improvement of fine lines and wrinkles.  The practice of aesthetics allows for all of these concerns to be addressed without undergoing a traditional surgical procedure.  There is the concept of the Three R's that capture the goals of rejuvenation:  Relaxing, Refilling, and Resurfacing. 

The Celibre Medical Orange County Laser Resurfacing Program, www.celibre.com/micropeel.aspx.

Relaxing hyperactive muscles with the use of Botox Cosmetic will soften fine lines/wrinkles if not resolving them completely.   It is the repetitive contraction of facial muscles that create wrinkles to the eye area, around the mouth, the forehead, and between the eyebrows (frown lines).  Botox Cosmetic is also used to soften a "pebble chin" or to correct a mouth frown wherein the corners of the mouth are turned down.  Undergoing rejuvenation with other modalities is a step forward but unless the underlying problem that is leading to wrinkles is corrected (ex: muscle activity) one may not see long-term results.

Read About All Celibre's Facial Shaping Techniques

Contact celibre Medical in Los Angeles and Orange County for a free consultation regarding laser resurfacing procedures, www.celibre.com/contactlist.aspx.

Facial rejuvenation using laser and injection treatments.  Los Angeles Laser Resurfacing for facial rejuvenation.

Refilling deep wrinkles and folds of the face using hyaluronic acid fillers (ex: Juvederm, Restylane, Perlane) is an excellent way to resolve the deeper lines that cannot be resolved with Botox.  The most common area wherein fillers are used is the nasolabial folds which are referred to as laugh or smile lines.  Fillers work by adding volume in a very natural, appealing way.  Fillers are used to augment and define the mouth area, add support and smoothing to the lower mouth and chin area (marionette lines), and to add volume to the hallow areas of the cheeks.  The concept with fillers is to focus on shaping the face rather than just filling lines and wrinkles.  Oftentimes as we age, we see the mid-face area change.  The common complaint is "my face is falling!"   By restoring volume to the upper cheeks and filling the tear trough area (area below lower lid and orbital rim), the shape of the mid-face is improved to a more youthful appearance.  The outcome is subtle yet appealing.

More before and after photos of Los Angeles laser Resurfacing Patients, www.celibre.com/micropeelba.aspx.

Laser Resurfacing and facial rejuvenation refers to improving the texture and pigmentation (color) of the skin by using lasers, chemical peels, appropriate skin care products, etc.  In our practice, we utilize the Erbium MicroLaserPeel which works by removing the outermost layer of the skin while stimulating collagen remodeling in the dermis below the surface of the skin.   Although there are many, many modalities that are being offered that claim to achieve these goals, we have found that the Erbium MicroLaserPeel is "tried and true" with consistent, predictable outcomes.  We also utilize non-ablative lasers (no downtime involved) that are efficient in addressing pigmentation concerns as well as stimulating collagen remodeling.

There is no one particular treatment plan that is appropriate for all.  We believe that the best treatment plan is one that sets realistic expectations, attempts to over-deliver on those expectations, is mindful of the patient's goals, concerns, and lifestyle.  Not all patients are candidates for a traditional face lift when the issue is restoring volume.  For the same reason, the above modalities may not be effective if the patient presents with much laxity (sagging) of the skin and would be best served with surgical intervention.  However, it is always in one's best interest to know what their options are while doing their research.  http://www.celibre.com/wrinkles.aspx or http://www.celibre.com/sunspots.aspx.

Eye rejuventation has become a growing concern as female patients are starting to learn about the many treatment modalities that are available that do not involve traditional plastic surgery.  We've often heard the saying that "the eyes are the windows to the soul."  More appropriately, the eyes are the frame of the face.  As we age, the frame changes and these changes may be addressed in  a variety of ways. 

The term "crow's feet" refers to the fine lines that are found lateral to the eyes and may extend even below the lower lid.  These wrinkles are caused by repeated contraction of the strong muscle that encircles the orbital rim.  Using Botox Cosmetic for crow's feet to relax this muscle is an excellent, simple way to soften if not resolve these lines.  We also utilize a popular but often under-used technique referred to as the lateral brow lift.  This technqiue involves a small dose of Botox Cosmetic usually to the ends of the eyebrows.  With good/exact placement, we are able to provide a very natural, subtle lifting of the upper lid.  Although this will never replace surgical blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery), it is an excellent technique appreciated by most of our Botox patients. 

Read About All Celibre's Injection Techniques

To schedule a free consultation, call or e-mail us at www.celibre.com/contactlist.aspx.

In addition to the above modalities, laser (thermal) energy can be used to improve the texture and address laxity (loosening) of skin including crow's feet.  Laser resurfacing using the Erbium MicroLaserPeel laser resurfacing for crow's feet works by removing the outer most layer of the epidermis while stimulating collagen (the building block of skin/tissue) in the dermis.  This is considered an ablative procedure which involves 4-5 days of downtime away from work or social activities.  

Find out more about the Celibre Medical Los Angeles Botox injections program at www.celibre.com/botox.aspx.

Apart from laser resurfacing, we also have found good outcomes with the Aramis Quantel and Q-Switched technology.  These lasers are considered non-ablative.  This means that there is no downtime involved, treatments are safe for all skin types, with treatments usually being 20 minutes long.  This technology works by stimulating collagen by sending thermal energy down into the dermis.  There is minimal to no discomfort for this type of treatment for this condition.  

Using specific skin care products will always enhance treatment results.  For example, Glycolic Acid has great benefits by exfoliating and thinning out the stratum corneum.  This in turn causes an increase in skin cell turnover process while stimulating the production of collagen.  This allows for a thickening of the dermis which provides improved texture.

Research and our experience reveals that a combination of modalities usually renders the best outcomes.  However, the practitioner must taken into consideration what your goals and concerns are.  Tailoring a treatment plan to the individual is a must.  Knowing that there are options and treatments available is the first step.     For more information on how to improve the fine lines and wrinkles around the crow's feet of the eyes, please visit http://www.celibre.com/wrinkles.aspx.

Length of the Botox injections results will depend on the individual and the practitioner. Most of our patients see the benefits of Botox for approximately 3-4 months. If you are experiencing effects less than 3 months, you should discuss this with your Los Angeles Botox practitioner to determine if the proper dosing and appropriate technique were used.  The use of Botox Cosmetic is now being valued by younger men and women who see it as an excellent method to prevent future wrinkles by starting maintenance early. Regular Botox injections combined with appropriate dosing and injection techniques will ultimately lead to longer lasting results.

Read About All Celibre's Facial Shaping Techniques

Los Angeles Botox Injection facilities or review our website information at http://www.celibre.com/botox.aspx. 

Call to schedule a free consultation for Orange County Botox injections, www.celibre.com/contactlist.aspx.

Los Angeles Botox Injections.  Orange County Botox. 

Botox Los Angeles Before and After Pictures by Celibre Medical, www.celibre.com/botoxba.aspx.    

Lori Haney, RN MEPC