Skin Procedures

BOTOX®

BOTOX® Cosmetic is used to treated wrinkles caused by overactive muscles of expression. BOTOX® Cosmetic is a protein derivative of botulinum toxin, a neurotoxin agent produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. In small doses, BOTOX® Cosmetic is used to temporarily relax the hyperactive facial muscles that produce deep or noticeable wrinkles. In many patients, its effect can last from three to six months. The injections are relatively painless and can be given during a short office visit. Within three to five days, most people notice a disappearance or reduction of troublesome frown lines or wrinkles.

BOTOX® Cosmetic is also being used to treat the condition of axillary hyperhidrosis, or excessive sweating under the arms. Again, it must be reinjected every six to nine months to maintain its beneficial effect. Occasionally, this type of use of botulinum toxin is covered by insurance.

BOTOX® Cosmetic is also used to treat chronic blepharospasm (twitching of the eyes). By relaxing the muscles with BOTOX® Cosmetic, patients with blepharospasm can get relief from the chronic annoyance of muscle twitching. Insurance usually will cover the treatment if approval is obtained prior to treatment. In the case of Medicare patients, documentation of chronic blepharospasm must meet defined criteria set by Medicare.

JUVÉDERM® Injectable Gel

JUVÉDERM® injectable gel is one of the newer and long-lasting facial fillers. The active ingredient is hyaluronic gel, which hydrates the skin and maintains both skin volume and shape. When skillfully injected, JUVÉDERM® injectable gel can minimize lines and add to facial volume, creating a more youthful appearance. JUVÉDERM® injectable gel treatment can be effective for up to six months. An ongoing treatment plan of one to two injections per year will be required to maintain the results.

Fat Injections, Fat Transfers and Fat Grafts

A common method for improving depressions or deep wrinkles and furrows is the injection of fat taken from somewhere else on your body. This requires a minor surgical procedure in which fat is removed from one part of your body such as the lower abdomen, concentrated and reinjected into another area of your body to improve a visible skin depression or hollow area. 
Fat injections have been shown to be more permanent with less likelihood of reabsorption. All filler materials, however, whether collagen or your own fat, can be absorbed to some extent.

An exciting recent development has been to use your fat to augment your breast size. The best candidates for this procedure are women whose breasts have shrunk in size after having children, who desire to have their breasts more full. The breast augmentation procedure is done under conscious sedation (you are awake, but sleepy). Depending on your size goal, more than one treatment session may be required. Each session is spaced a minimum of three months apart, although if you wish to wait longer, you are certainly welcome to do so.

To learn more about our skin procedures, please call 641.494.5200 today or use our online form to schedule an appointment. Our skin procedure patients come to us from Albert Lea, Algona, Belmond, Britt, Buffalo Center, Charles City, Clarion, Cresco, Emmetsburg, Forest City, Garner, Greene, Hampton, Iowa Falls, Lake Mills, Mason City, New Hampton, Northwood, Osage, Waverly and surrounding locations.