Hopefully, this finds you still healthy, well, and maintaining good spirits. As the weeks wear on, I know it gets harder to stay positive. However, we will all come through this together. So, I thought I would take a few minutes to answer any questions you might have about cosmetic procedures and self-care during this time of isolation.
Is there any harm in suddenly stopping routine cosmetic procedures like fillers or neurotoxin (Botox®, Xeomin®)?
Fillers have the longevity of months and even years, so these are likely less an issue. Neurotoxin lasts typically about 3 months, but there is no harm in letting it wear off completely.
By not getting Neurotoxin injections on time, is it going to affect my previous Neurotoxin efforts?
Letting the neurotoxin wear off and missing an injection will not have any long-term effect. You just have to put up with those frown lines a little longer.
Since I can’t go for my usual Neurotoxin or filler touch-ups, how can I keep a look that is refreshed?
This is where really focusing on self-care with your skincare regimen is important. Ingredients like antioxidants and sunscreen protect the skin. Growth factors and peptides build collagen and improve the appearance of fine lines. Hyaluronic acids and moisturizers help plump the look of the skin.
If I routinely get cosmetic maintenance and this suddenly stops for a couple of months, how noticeable will it be and will it affect my results?
Routine cosmetic procedures to build collagen help slow the aging process and keep us looking more youthful. Having a break in treatments for a couple of months is not likely to have a significant effect, as you are still likely building collagen from your previous treatments. As to appearance, the difference would likely be less than what we see with and without makeup.
I have an upcoming procedure. Is there anything I can do to be getting ready?
Eating a healthy diet, limited alcohol intake, exercise, and getting plenty of sleep are all important for being our best for a procedure and its recovery. These all help with our mental and emotional health as well which is so important right now.
Are there any natural products or food you would recommend that are good for inflammation and the skin?
Foods with antioxidants like leafy, green vegetables and vitamins especially Vitamin C can be beneficial. Also, ingestible collagen such as SkinAde which is derived from marine sources of collagen with the highest bio-availability can help the overall quality of your skin.
If I am concerned about weight gain, the so-called “quarantine 15”, how will that weight gain affect recent cosmetic procedures?
Even if you were to gain a few pounds, while your face may look a little fuller, this is not likely to have a major effect on your face or your appearance or the procedure results. These are stressful times and we all may be snacking a little more than usual. Try to keep healthy snacks available for when you get the urge!
What resources do you recommend for patients stressing about not being able to see their doctor/doctors?
Most physicians of all specialties are now offering telemedicine for their patients. So you still have a way to reach out to your doctor for any concerns from the safety of your own home. Common platforms being used are Zoom, Skype, Facetime, and Doxy.me. Personally, I have found this way of continuing to interact with my patients really rewarding.
Current news reports indicate that we may be nearing the peak of this pandemic. In the interim, we remain available to you by phone and virtual visits to address any concerns that you may have. We currently plan to reopen in May and are excited at the prospect of seeing you again. We will continue to keep you informed of our plans. When this extraordinary time passes, we look forward to assisting you with all your personal aesthetic concerns. Until then, virtual visits and complementary virtual consultations will be available by Zoom, Doxy.me, and FaceTime. Please call the office to schedule yours at (678) 888-3223 or visit www.AtlantaFaceAndBody.com for more information. Stay safe and well!
All my best!
Dr. Elizabeth
