Dr. Karsan’s Blog

Mirror, Mirror: Matching My Inner Vitality with My Outer Image

Question:   My face is beginning to show some signs of aging.  The image in the mirror just doesn’t reflect to me how young and vital I feel inside.  I’m considering a facelift.  Can you tell me about it?

Answer:  A cosmetic facelift reverses the effects of gravity and aging. The folds, creases, and wrinkles that age our faces are eliminated or substantially reduced. This gives the face a more youthful, refreshed appearance.

A facelift is a plastic surgery procedure used to remove excess skin and localized collections of fat. Underlying support is reinforced and tightened. The skin and tissues of the face and neck are repositioned. A cosmetic facelift repositions fallen cheek mounds, softens nasolabial grooves, and creates a smooth jaw line and more defined neck.

Over time the effects of gravity, a loss of volume, relaxation of the supportive tissues and loss of collagen negatively impact facial features and create the formation of:

  • Jowls - The slack tissue at or above the jawlins
  • Neck bands - A combination of saggy, excess skin, and a platysma muscle that becomes thick and cord-like can create the appearance of bands or deep creases that run from the jaw to the chest
  • Double chin - Loose skin and subcutaneous fat underneath the chin create the appearance of a second chin.
  • Flabby cheeks.
  • Nasolabial grooves - Folds around the nose.
  • Marionette grooves - Folds or a depression around the mouth.

These visible signs of aging can make us look considerably older. A surgical facelift can rejuvenate the overall appearance of your face, noticeably reduce the signs of aging, and leave you looking as vital on the outside as you feel on the inside.

What Results Should I Expect?

The procedure can make you look five to fifteen years younger depending on your age, facial structure, and level of skin elasticity. As a facial plastic surgeon I focus on giving patients a natural, balanced, appearance that makes them look refreshed and rejuvenated rather than "done."

Beautiful, natural results from plastic facial surgery begin with a comprehensive pre-operative consultation. An assessment of your unique facial structure, elasticity of skin, and extent of facial wrinkles and folds is made during the physical examination. A surgical plan is then customized to your individual needs. This includes details like the surgical technique that will be used; the location, design, and extent of the incision; and the direction of the lift.

Are you currently considering facial plastic surgery or a non-surgical anti-aging technique? Contact Dr. Karsan, an ethical facial plastic surgeon today to schedule a one-on-one consultation. Together we will select a technique that will make you look more youthful, refreshed and radiant — and completely natural. And we'll match the vitality of your insides with the image in the mirror.

Surgical Procedures Can Help You Regain Confidence

Some people age well; others aren't as lucky - they look older than they feel. Sometimes it's genetics; sometimes it's lifestyle or stress. Fortunately, there are several procedures that can take years off your appearance and help you regain confidence.

An ethical Facial Plastic Surgeon will help you explore both surgical and non-surgical options.  Common surgical options can include a facelift, a forehead lift, upper eyelid surgery and/or lower eyelid surgery.

A facelift is a plastic surgery procedure used to remove excess skin and localized collections of fat. Underlying support is reinforced and tightened. The skin and tissues of the face and neck are repositioned. A cosmetic facelift repositions fallen cheek mounds, softens nasolabial grooves, and creates a smooth jaw line and more defined neck.

A forehead lift is a plastic surgery procedure used to reverse the effects of aging and gravity. An incision is made in the scalp, hairline, or temple. Excess skin and/or muscle are removed through the incision. The deeper tissues of the forehead are then 'lifted' to a level that is aesthetically pleasing and reattached. The skin and underlying tissues of the forehead are tightened giving the patient a more youthful appearance.

Upper blepharoplasty (upper eyelid surgery) addresses the excess skin and removes unneeded fat. Upper eyelid surgery can greatly improve the appearance of your eyelids resulting in an overall rejuvenated, refreshed look. Your eyes will look larger and brighter. Your eyelids will look smoother.  If you are struggling with eyelid issues that age the face upper eyelid surgery can offer you a more rejuvenated and refreshed look.

During lower eyelid surgery the fat herniation which creates unwanted puffiness underneath the eye is removed. Lower eyelid surgery (lower blepharoplasty) can greatly improve persistent puffiness underneath the eyes that results can often result from aging.  A small amount of skin may also be removed.

Learn how these surgical options can help you regain your confidence and turn back the clock.  Call Dr. Karsan, an ethical plastic surgeon, at 214-646-8777 to schedule your personal consultation today.

Tips for Choosing a Facial Plastic Surgeon

Question:  I’m considering a surgical procedure to refresh my looks this year.   Can you share some tips on choosing a facial plastic surgeon?

Answer: Do you want to achieve an outer appearance that truly reflects your inner beauty? If so, you are likely considering plastic surgery to help you look and feel your best.   Research is required to find an ethical, experienced facial plastic surgeon whose esthetic ideal matches yours. 

Select an Ethical Plastic Surgeon

Have you ever been to a mechanic that tries to replace everything from your windshield wiper blades to your transmission when all you needed was an oil change? An unethical plastic surgeon operates in a similar fashion. They try to talk you into additional surgeries or they are willing to compromise function in order to achieve a particular look. Your reaction should be similar to the one you have when you encounter a shady mechanic. Run for the door!

Instead look for a doctor who is honest and ethical. They will not recommend unnecessary procedures or agree to perform a procedure that isn’t right for you – no matter how badly you want it.  Remain open to suggestions. Don’t focus on a particular procedure; focus on what it is you want to enhance or correct. Not every procedure is right for every patient. An ethical plastic surgeon will weigh all options and advise you accordingly. An ethical plastic surgeon with an understanding of the esthetic ideal will help you achieve a look that is beautiful but also takes into account your specific bone structure and other factors. The result is a balanced, refreshed look that is both beautiful and natural.

Interview More Than One Plastic Surgeon

Select a handful of possible candidates and make an appointment for a personal consultation. Be observant when you arrive at the plastic surgeon's office. You want beautiful, natural results that will not make you look "done." Look for a plastic surgeon with the same esthetic ideal. Do the plastic surgeon and staff look natural and refreshed or do they look "done"? If the potential doctor and his or her staff have an overdone Hollywood look this is direct reflection of the doctor's esthetic ideal.

Get a realistic view of the operation during your personal consultation. Ask the potential plastic surgeon:

  • What the procedure will and will not accomplish?
  • What is the expected recovery time?
  • What are the total costs for the procedure?
  • What risks are associated with the procedure and how would he or she handle them?

A good facial plastic surgeon will patiently and confidently answer these questions for you. A doctor that does not welcome your questions should raise a red flag.

Request to see before and after pictures of other patients who have received the same surgery. Confirm that these are pictures of actual patients and not stock photos or promotional photos provided by the product manufacturer. Make sure you are happy with the results and comfortable with the doctor.

Look for a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon

Board Certification is a process that takes several years of education, specialized training, rigorous testing, and valid experience. Board certification demonstrates that a facial plastic surgeon has a commitment to excellence – something you should demand from a surgeon you are entrusting with your face, head, and neck – a highly complex area of the human body.

Choosing the right facial plastic surgeon takes time, but it is well worth the effort. Don't be intimidated by the interviewing process. You are in control. Do not allow yourself to be rushed into getting a procedure or working with a doctor that makes you uncomfortable.

As an accredited plastic surgeon, my approach is to restore natural looking beauty. To schedule your personal consultation call Dr. Karsan an ethical plastic surgeon at 214-646-8777.

Achieve Beautiful and Natural Results

When we look our best we feel our best. An improved self-image and greater self-esteem impacts every facet of our lives - both personal and professional.

Have you wondered what it would feel like if you could change a feature that bothered you for most of your life?  Perhaps it is a small chin, a bump on the nose or acne scarring. Maybe you would like to turn back the clock and reverse the signs of aging.

What if you could eliminate sagging skin, frown lines, or bags underneath the eyes that make us look older, tired, sad or even angry? Perhaps you are bothered by skin discoloration, large pores, or a double chin. These signs of aging, overexposure to the sun, and other issues can be greatly improved through facial plastic surgery (facelifts, rhinoplasty, chin lift, brow lift, etc.) and non-surgical anti-aging techniques (liquid lift, Botox®, Dysport®, Juvéderm®, Restylane®, etc.)

A facial plastic surgeon can help you choose the technique that will rejuvenate the skin and make you look more refreshed.

Each face has its own unique beauty resulting from a unique combination of bone structure, muscle tone and skin texture. As an ethical Facial Plastic Surgeon I take an honest approach to enhancing your beauty. I am committed to helping you achieve a look that harmonizes with the esthetic ideal (proper proportions, facial symmetry, etc.) as opposed to an overdone look, preferred by some plastic surgeons.

My ultimate goal is help you achieve an optimal outer appearance while looking like you have not had plastic surgery at all.

That is my commitment to helping you achieve beautiful, natural results.  To schedule your personal consultation call Dr. Karsan an ethical plastic surgeon at 214-646-8777.

Fillers Are A Way to Correct "Runner's Face"

Question:  2011 was a great year for me.  I lost 50 pounds and completed my first marathon.  I am in the best shape of my life except for one thing: my face looks so gaunt and tired all the time.  I want my face to look as great as the rest of me.  What do you advise?

Answer: Running has the ability to favorably transform the body—who among us doesn’t yearn to lose a few pounds?—but sometimes, there’s an unwanted change that occurs along the cheeks, temple, and the space between the edge of the nose and the lips. Some folks call it "Runner's Face".

Loss of volume around the eyes, mouth and hollows leave the face looking gaunt and tired – even when we’ve had a full night’s rest. There are several non-surgical, anti-aging treatments that restore facial volume. One option is injectable fillers.  Fillers such as Juvéderm®, Restylane®, and Radiesse® have been used for many years with proven, consistent results.

Fillers are a quick, non-surgical option to give cheeks a fuller, more youthful appearance as well as reduce hollowness around the eyes. Fillers can also raise depressed scars, define and plump lips, and reduce lines around the lips. 

A variety of injectable fillers are available:

  • Juvéderm® is made of hyaluronic acid - a naturally occurring sugar found in all mammals. It hydrates skin, smoothes out wrinkles, and restores volume. You get smooth, natural-looking results that last up to a year.
  • Restylane® is made from hyaluronic acid of non-animal origin. It reduces the look of fine lines and wrinkles by adding volume to the skin. Results can be seen instantly and last six to twelve months. Downtime is minimal.
  • Radiesse® is made of calcium hydroxylapatite. Its unique formulation stimulates the production of new collagen – an essential component to youthful, healthy skin. The result is natural-looking wrinkle correction that lasts six to twelve months.

Which filler is right for you? A qualified facial plastic surgeon will help you choose the filler that will give you the best results. Contact Dr. Karsan at 214-646-8777 to learn how non-surgical, injectable fillers can make your face look as youthful and vibrant as your body.   

A More Confident You in 2012?

Self-consciousness about our personal appearance results in a lack of confidence. A lack of confidence can have a debilitating effect on our ability to function successfully in the workplace and within social spheres.

It’s human nature to be unhappy with some aspects of our outer appearance.  The feature we find displeasing may not be altered as easily as hair color. Perhaps it’s the effects of too much sun during oru youth or the laugh lines on our face.  Dissatisfaction with outer appearance can greatly impact self-image and self-esteem. A negative self-image - the perception or mental image we have of ourselves - has a profound effect on our approach to life

When we have a positive self-image our self-esteem increases. We are more confident. This confidence makes us more effective in our personal and professional lives.

Increased self-confidence extends to every area of our lives - our work and relationships. When we are confident about our self-image others can sense this. They are drawn to it. Self-confidence is a trait companies seek in potential employees. Both men and women find self-confidence to be attractive in a potential mate.

Cosmetic surgery is not a panacea for all of life's problems.   If you are considering facial plastic surgery or non-surgical anti-aging treatments (Botox®, Juvéderm®, liquid lift) give careful thought to what you hope to achieve. Work with an ethical facial plastic surgeon to set realistic expectations for your final results.   

Facial plastic surgery and non-surgical anti-aging procedures bring a patient's inner beauty to the surface. Even the smallest changes - tighter, firmer skin or a decrease in the appearance of laugh lines - can boost self-image immeasurably. Facial plastic surgery and non-surgical procedures can have a dramatic effect.

A more youthful, rejuvenated look can improve self-image and boost self-esteem by bringing our outer appearance into closer alignment with the inner beauty we possess.   As a facial plastic surgeon I have been privileged to help my clients transform their outer appearance in a way that allows their inner beauty to shine through. It is thrilling to see the improvement in their self-confidence and quality of life.

Contact Dr. Karsan, a qualified facial plastic surgeon, at 214-646-8777 to request a personal consultation to discuss how plastic facial surgery and non-surgical anti-aging procedures can do the same for you. 

A Liquid Lift for a Fresh New Year's Look

Question:  In looking to what I want in the New Year, I know that I want a fresher appearance, but I don't believe I'm ready for a surgical facelift.  What do you suggest?

Answer:  With the New  Year fast approaching, many of my patients come to me because they want to look more rejuvenated. They want to eliminate the signs of aging that make them look tired, sad, or gaunt. These patients aren't quite ready for a surgical facelift - nor do they need one. Fortunately the non-surgical liquid lift is a good option for such patients. If you want to look your best in the coming year, a liquid lift may be the solution for you, too.

The Benefits of the Liquid Lift

The liquid lift is a minimally invasive, non-surgical anti-aging technique. Patients can achieve significant results with minimal downtime and minimal risk. That makes the liquid lift a convenient, cost-effective solution for many patients. You can get a liquid lift in your facial plastic surgeon's office in as little as 30 minutes for a fraction of the cost of traditional plastic surgery. With the proper maintenance, your results can last up to two years.

Noticeable results, less inhibitive cost, and minimal downtime make the liquid lift an excellent option for patients who want to look their very best without surgery. That’s why minimally invasive procedures like the liquid lift are growing in popularity with both doctors and patients.

What  is a Liquid Lift?

A liquid lift is a non-surgical facelift achieved by using Botox® or Dysport® and facial fillers (a combination of Radiesse®, Juvéderm®, Restylane®). Traditional face lifts tighten the support layer of the face or SMAS and removes excess skin, a surgical procedure.  A liquid lift restores volume by filling in deep lines and grooves below the skin using dermal fillers.

Botox® or Dysport® can produce a brow lift, reverse the down-turned mouth, diminish the appearance of crow’s feet, frown lines, forehead wrinkles, and neck bands. The filler is used to redefine the lips, restore volume, and diminish wrinkles on lips and around the mouth.  Laugh lines and marionette lines are filled. Jowls are diminished. Volume is restored to the midface and cheeks. The result is a non-surgical facelift.

 

What You Should Know About the “Liquid Lift”

The liquid lift is an excellent tool for restoring natural facial contours and volume. However, like any cosmetic procedure, it isn’t right for everyone. For instance, a patient with sagging skin and a loss of elasticity may be a candidate for a traditional surgical facelift. The duration of the results achieved with a liquid facelift can last from a few months to two years depending on a variety of factors. In some cases, touch-up procedures may be required periodically to maintain optimal results. In contrast, a traditional facelift can offer more dramatic, longer lasting results.

 

Is the liquid lift the right option for you? Contact our office to learn more about the liquid lift and to discuss whether this minimally invasive, non-surgical anti-aging technique is the right one for you.

Reduce the Look of Acne Scars with DOT Laser Skin Resurfacing

Question:  I've seen some recent magazine articles about something called DOT Laser Skin Resurfacing to minimize the looks of acne scars.  What exactly is it and how does it work?

Answer: DOT Therapy laser skin rejuvenation is an exciting cosmetic treatment that can noticeably reduce the appearance of acne and other scars.  It also can improve the appearance of aged or sun-damaged skin and smooth wrinkles.

What is DOT Therapy Laser Skin Rejuvenation and How Does It Work?

Dermal Optical Thermolysis is performed using the SmartXide DOT™ laser system - one of the most sophisticated laser systems on the market. Your doctor will apply a grid of tiny scanned pulses of laser energy to your skin during the DOT Therapy procedure.

The laser creates thousands of microscopic holes in your skin. This causes immediate tightening of the skin and stimulates the growth of new collagen – essential to younger, fresher-looking skin. DOT Therapy improves the skin’s tone and texture and fights fine lines, deep wrinkles, and discoloration caused by the sun and acne scars. Excellent results can usually be achieved in a single 30-minute session.

The DOT CO2 laser is superior to older laser skin resurfacing techniques because the microscopic treated areas are surrounded by healthy skin, causing the treated skin to heal more quickly. 

The Benefits of DOT Therapy

DOT Therapy laser skin rejuvenation decreases pigmentation and fine lines, lifts and tightens skin, and reduces pores. You can get beautiful, natural results with DOT laser therapy in a single 30-minute treatment. DOT Therapy has minimal downtime compared to traditional CO2 laser which is the gold standard for skin resurfacing.

What to Expect with DOT Therapy

Your doctor may use a topical anesthetic during the procedure for increased comfort. After the DOT Therapy procedure your skin will be red. A cold compress will be applied to alleviate discomfort. Over the next three or four days you may experience some peeling, similar to sunburn. Your doctor will give you a hydrating lotion to apply to the treated area. This will keep your skin moist and promote healing. Typically the skin returns to its normal appearance in seven to ten days. The results of your DOT Therapy procedure can last for years. In cases of severe wrinkling or deep acne scars a series of treatments may be required.

 

If your skin has been damaged by overexposure to the sun, acne scars, or environmental factors, DOT Therapy may be the non-surgical anti-aging solution for you. Contact Dr. Karsan, a qualified facial  plastic surgeon, at 214-646-8777 to request a personal consultation to discuss how DOT Therapy laser skin resurfacing can improve the look and feel of your skin.

Boost Your Confidence by Ironing Out Lines and Wrinkles

Question:  “Our company is planning a big corporate retreat in mid-January.  I have to make a speech to all of our employees, including the CEO! I’m only 42, but the lines between my brows make me look much older than I am.  It's shaking my confidence.  Is there anything I can do without surgery?”

Answer:  While your boss obviously thinks you are a wonderful representation of your company, it is important that you feel good about how you look when you are in the corporate spotlight.

If stubborn lines and wrinkles are threatening to put a damper your confidence, there is a non-surgical, minimally-invasive treatment that will put a smile on your face again.

Iron Out Lines and Wrinkles with Botox®

Celebrities have relied on Botox® to make them red-carpet-ready for nearly a decade. But they’re not the only people who use Botox® to get amazing results. Nearly 12 million Botox® Cosmetic procedures have been administered in the United States since its introduction to the market in 2002.

Fine lines and wrinkles around the eyes, nose and mouth prematurely age the face. They occur as a natural part of the aging process. As we age the collagen in our skin breaks down. Production of new collagen slows. Environmental factors like cigarette smoke and sun exposure exacerbate the natural aging process. In this compromised state our skin is loses its ability to bounce back quickly. Over time repeated actions like frowning, squinting and smiling etch permanent lines in our faces.

What is Botox® and how does it work?

Botox® is a purified protein that is injected directly into facial muscles to improve the look of moderate-to-severe frown lines. It blocks nerve signals that prompt muscles to contract. This relaxes the muscles and reduces activity that causes lines to form between the brows.

You’ll see marked improvement in moderate-to-severe frown lines within days of your Botox® injection. Over time the depth of the wrinkle decreases and the progression of lines is curtailed. The results last three to four months.

Many patients favor Botox® because this non-surgical, minimally-invasive treatment is quick, convenient and affordable. Your facial plastic surgeon can administer treatment in her office during your lunch break. Botox® offers noticeable results and minimal downtime.

To get the best results, Botox® should be administered four weeks before your big speech.

Want to boost your confidence in time for your corporate event? Contact Dr. Karsan – a qualified facial plastic surgeon - at 214-646-8777 to discuss whether Botox® can help you look and feel your best.

Fillers Can Help You Feel and Look Your Best for the Holidays

Do you want to look your very best this holiday season? This is a request I often get from patients who want to look vibrant and well-rested this holiday season. As we age a loss of volume can cause wrinkles and hollowing of skin. This makes the face look drawn, and gaunt. We begin to look tired, sad, or angry - no matter how we really feel.  

A patient came to me recently because her skin had lost is youthful, supple appearance. She had some wrinkling and hollowing of the skin that is a typical effect of aging. She wanted to improve the look and feel of her skin, but felt she was too young for a facelift. Fortunately there are several proven, non-surgical anti-aging treatments currently available to those who want to rejuvenate the look of their skin.

Juvederm Before and AfterJuvéderm®

Juvéderm® is an injectable gel filler made of hyaluronic acid - a naturally occurring sugar found in all mammals. Made by the creators of Botox® and approved by the FDA in June 2006, Juvéderm® helps to hydrate skin, smooth out wrinkles, and restore volume. A facial plastic surgeon injects Juvéderm® under the skin to smooth away wrinkles around the mouth and nose (smile lines, marionette lines, and vertical lines). Patients get smooth, natural-looking results that last for up to one year. Juvéderm® XC, now infused with lidocaine, offers patients a minimally-invasive procedure and improved comfort.

Restylane®

Restylane® is made from hyaluronic acid of non-animal origin. Hyaluronic acid is found throughout the body as well as in most other living organisms. It has many functions, from giving the skin elasticity to lubricating joints. Restylane® is well accepted by patients since it is a genetically engineered substance already found in the body.

Restylane® adds fullness to the skin to reduce the look of fine lines and wrinkles. The results of Restylane can be seen instantly. Downtime is minimal with this non-surgical dermal filler.  Your doctor can use Restylane® to restore facial contour, rejuvenate the skin and improve the look of frown lines, worry lines, crow’s feet, tired eyes and smoker’s lines. The results last six to twelve months, depending on the individual and the area treated.

Radiesse®

Youthful, healthy skin contains collagen. Collagen gives the skin volume and flexibility. As your skin ages the collagen in skin breaks down. The diminished volume of collagen in your skin results in wrinkles, facial lines and a loss of elasticity.

Radiesse® is an injectable filler made of calcium hydroxylapatite. It is used to replenish lost volume and fill moderate to severe facial wrinkles, folds and depressions around the eyes, nose and mouth. Its unique formulation stimulates the production of new collagen. The result is natural looking wrinkle correction that can last from six to twelve months, depending on the area treated.

 

What Fillers Can Do for You This Holiday Season

I used fillers to help the patient mentioned earlier to achieve beautiful, natural results. Why? Because I have used these products for many years with proven, consistent results. Fillers such as Juvéderm®, Restylane®, and Radiesse® can be used by a qualified plastic surgeon to:

  • Elevate depressed scars
  • Define and plump the lips
  • Reduce lines on and around the lips
  • Augment cheeks to give them a more youthful appearance
  • Reduce the appearance of jowls and restore the jaw line
  • Reduce hollowness around the eyes
  • Reshape the nose (non-surgical nose job)

Are you experiencing loss of volume or hollowing that is causing you to look older, tired, sad, or angry? Contact Dr. Karsan, a qualified Facial plastic surgeon, at 214-646-8777 to learn how non-surgical, injectable fillers can turn back the clock and make you look more youthful, vibrant, and refreshed in this year’s holiday photos.