Mommy Makeover: Info, Photos, Rewiews, Q&A

Can limited sun exposure cause significant skin damage after IPL Hair Removal? (Photo0

Remote sun exposure and age are implicated here….
Feb 23, 2015

IPL would not be expected to cause this issue. The wrinkles noted are a result of chronic, low grade sun exposure as well as aging. Zinc oxide based sunscreens help perpetuate the benefits of IPL and also minimize the tendency for the wrinkles to worsen. Be aware the this process is mediated by ultraviolet-A wavelengths (not UV-B). UV-A goes through glass as well as clouds; hence, always be wearing a zinc oxide sunscreen. The sunscreen ingredients are every bit as important as the SPF number…

Ice pick scar between eyes. What are my options for treatment?

Punch excision is ideal
Feb 23, 2015

This scar should be significantly improved by punch excision – I would use a 2 mm punch biopsy and close with fine 6-0 non dissolving suture; Sutures should be removed in 5 or 6 days and then I would use a silicone scar gel (e.g. Revoderm scar gel). The cosmetic result should be excellent.* The statements above are not intended as a replacement for authentic medical advice; an in-person medical visit with a formally trained dermatologist is recommended.*Kenneth W. Alanen MD,Dermatology FRCPC

Is more hyperpigmentation after IPL normal, or is my Dr trying to cover up the fact his staff bur

Post-IPL hyperpigmentation – this is usually temporary …..
Feb 23, 2015

Post-IPL hyperpigmentation is a common phenomenon. The risks are greater if you have a recent sun tan or significant recent sun exposure history. Typically, I recommend zinc oxide based sunscreens for several weeks before the procedure as well as 2% hydroquinone. I recommend this routine for you now – ideally, however, there would be a picture to see your skin……Post-IPL hyperpigmentation should be mostly resolved before you embark on more IPL, in my opinion. I would ensure that the…

It seems as if my lips are asymmetrical. What can be done to make my lips symmetrical without sur

Fillers are easily the best choice here….
Feb 22, 2015

Typically, I inject Volbella for lips. This hyaluronic acid-based formulation is smooth, pliable, long lasting and gives natural results. One should expect transient swelling that subsides over several days. It is prudent to anticipate this and plan your social calendar accordingly. Some patients have a prescription for several days of low dose prednisone (although it is usually not needed). Lip injections are technically challenging and should only be done by a formally trained…

What are realistic options for revision of a 22 y/o diagonal indented scar between eyebrows? (Pho

Help for your scar……
Feb 22, 2015

This scar should be improved with a combination of subscision, fractional laser and possibly filler. Post-traumatic scars are treated with an approach that is similar to acne scars, chicken pox scars and post-surgical scars. My starting point is typically subscision, performed under local anesthesia, whereby a very thin needle with a scalpel-type end is inserted into the indented scar and this tissue is “loosened” through a gentle back and forth motion. New collagen is laid down in…

IPL damaged my skin barrier. What can I do to heal and protect my skin?

Inert silicone is best……
Feb 21, 2015

“Skin sensitivity” is a commonly cited problem. It has many causes but an intrinsic defect in the skin barrier function is usually an important component. The “stinging” is likely due to preservatives / chemicals. I use topical silicone scar gel (Revoderm) for up to three weeks after IPL as it has no preservatives, irritants or allergens. Topical silicone is a time honoured approach for healing damaged skin (especially after surgery and burns) as it assists with barrier repair, helps to…

I have an approximate 3cm annular,scaly,eroded plaque BCC on bridge of nose. 1cm BCC above lip. N

Mohs’ Surgery is required
Feb 21, 2015

The tumor above a large basal cell carcinoma in an anatomically sensitive location. As such the therapy of choice is Mohs’ surgery. Radiotherapy and vismodegib are options if the tumor cannot be completely resected surgically.* The statements above are not intended as a replacement for authentic medical advice; an in-person medical visit with a formally trained dermatologist is recommended.*Kenneth W. Alanen MD,Dermatology FRCPC Fellow, American Society of Dermatologic Surgery, Mohs’…