Facial harmonization

Facial harmonization is the term used to describe a combination of non-surgical and/or minimally invasive procedures to the face to achieve a better facial balance, facial rejuvenation and overall global facial beauty.

Facial harmonization procedures have both high impact and low downtime. They can be performed in the office under topical or local anesthesia and can be either permanent or temporary improvements of the face.

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Common combination of procedures used for facial harmonization are botulinum toxin (Botox, Dysport), fillers (Juvederm, Restylane), “double-chin” treatment, bichectomy, lip lift.

– Dr Gabriele C Miotto, MD, MEd, Aesthetic Plastic Surgeon in Atlanta.

Botox

Botulinum toxin is used for the treatment of dynamic wrinkles and lines that appear when we make certain facial expressions such as frowning (the “elevens” in the middle of the eyebrows) or the “crow’s feet” on the lateral face upon smiling. Forehead lines, chin dimpling, muscle (platysma) bands on the neck, downward turn of the corners of the mouth can be treated with botulinum toxin. The goal is to improve the facial balance and rejuvenate the face.

Dermal fillers

Dermal fillers are injectable products used to improve deep wrinkles and loss of volume in the face. There are different types of dermal fillers, and the most common and safe products are made of hyaluronic acids (HAs). Fillers reshape the face and “lift” the tissues, improve facial symmetry and highlight facial contours. They are commonly in the lips, jaw line, dark circles, tear troughs, nose, temples and cheeks. Results usually last for 6-12 months.

Lip lift

A lip lift is a procedure performed on patients who have a longer and flat upper lip. As we age, the upper lip tends to get longer and flatter, and is one of the main causes of perceived facial aging. A lip lift improves the lip shape permanently. It improves upper lip vermillion and teeth show when smiling, which makes the face look younger. The procedure is comfortably done under local anesthesia and involves a small cut under the base of the nose. The cut is hidden beneath the nostrils, leaving no obvious scarring.

Chin liposuction

Patients that are concerned about their “double chin” can be treated by local liposuction in the office. The area is numbed with local anesthetic and a small liposuction cannula is used to remove the excess fat and sculpt the neck. This improves the “double chin” bulge and defines the jaw line. The procedure usually takes 30-45 min and the result is immediate and permanent. There is some swelling and bruising in the area, and the patients can return to work the next day.

Upper blepharoplasty

Upper eyelid surgery or blepharoplasty is a procedure used to rejuvenate the upper lids by treating the excess skin and puffiness. It is easily done under local anesthesia (awake). The procedure takes about 45min. Small incisions are placed in the natural creases of the lid where the scar can be hidden. Bruising and swelling is expected for a few days after the procedure. It can be combined with fillers and Botox on the same day.

Chemical peels

Chemical peels are skin resurfacing procedures to improve skin texture, fine lines and discoloration. They work by removing several superficial layers of skin and by stimulating collagen production, resulting in a permanent improvement of skin texture and lessening of deep lines. There are different peels that penetrate the skin at different levels. Superficial peels require just a few days of recovery. They add the final touch to the overall facial treatment, leaving a healthy looking and glowing skin.

Buccal Fat Removal

Buccal fat pad removal or bichectomy is a facial contouring procedure designed to remove the excessive fatty tissue that appears in the lower cheeks. Removing this fat pad can create a slimmer lower face with a more defined cheek highlight and jawline countour. Buccal fat pad removal can be a standalone procedure or paired with other facial harmonization procedures. Individuality, patient’s race, facial shape, aging patterns they all count when deciding to proceed with bichectomy.

To discuss more about how you can benefit from facial harmonization procedures and which combinations will benefit your facial shape and anatomy, come to see us in the office for an in-person consultation and it will be a pleasure to define a great plan for you to achieve your goals.

GABRIELE C. MIOTTO MD, MEd., is a Brazilian-American plastic surgeon specialized in aesthetic surgery and minimally invasive aesthetic procedures such as facial harmonization. She is known and recognized for her beautiful and natural results. Call or email our office to schedule your appointment!

Bruising Prevention Tips

1. DO NOT take any aspirin for 7-10 days before your scheduled procedure. Please contact the office if you are prescribed aspirin by your cardiologist or Primary Care Provider (PCP). Do not take NSAIDS (Aleve, Motrin, Ibuprofen) for 5 days before injections. You may take Tylenol (Acetaminophen) if needed for aches or pains.
2. Discontinue Vitamin E 7 days before injections.
3. Avoid the following herbal supplements for7 days before your injections: Echinacea, Ephedra / Phentermine (used for weight loss), Feverfew, Fish Oils, Garlic, Ginkgo Biloba, Goldenseal, Kava-Kava, Licorice, Saw Palmetto, St. John’s Wort and Valerian.
4. Stop Smoking. The harmful effects of smoking cause a lot of wrinkles…and those are not well treated with botulinum toxin!
5. Alcohol can promote bleeding so it is best to avoid alcohol intake for at least a few days before the injections.
6. Start an oral anti-bruising supplement with Arnica Montana / Bromelain the day before your injections and continue it for 3-5 days after the injections.