Botox®
Dr. Michele Koo demonstrates her dedication to non-surgical solutions for facial rejuvenation by offering a number of facial fillers including Botox®, Restylane® and Juvederm®. She takes the time to personally inject facial fillers and never relies on a nurse or aesthetician to perform the procedure for her. With an extensive understanding of the facial structures and the individualized needs of each patient, Dr. Koo is confident in her abilities to deliver quality results safely and effectively. These facial fillers can help to eliminate unwanted lines, wrinkles, crow’s feet or creases. The type of filler used will depend on the amount of correction needed and the unique facial structure of each patient.
Botox® St. Louis
As one of the most popular and widely requested procedures in the United States, Botox® is a non-surgical solution that rejuvenates the face, restoring a more youthful and smooth appearance. Botox® is designed to treat the common signs of aging that appear on the face including crow’s feet, frown lines and fine lines. Unwanted lines and wrinkles can be caused by smiling, frowning, squinting or even chewing- essentially any facial movement or expression can cause unwanted lines or wrinkles to form. Botox® can temporarily relax the underlying muscles diminishing unwanted lines and wrinkles. When done correctly, Botox® should have no impact on natural facial expressions.
Botox® or Botulinum Toxin is a purified substance that is designed to block muscle nerve signals, weakening the underlying muscles of the face. Dr. Michele Koo carefully targets the muscles that are causing wrinkles and unwanted lines and injects Botox® to keep the muscles from contracting. Since there are 43 muscles in the face, it is important to have a plastic surgeon administer the injections to target just the wrinkle causing muscles. This is why Dr. Koo insists on performing all injections herself to ensure the best possible results. Trusting this procedure to someone who is not board certified and does not have the same experience can lead to results that appear frozen or expressionless.
Results from Botox® are not permanent and wrinkle-causing muscles will eventually begin to contract again. Additional procedures will be necessary to block nerve signals to the muscles. Results typically last 6-9 months depending on the individual anatomy of the patient.
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Juvederm® St. Louis
An injectable gel, Juvederm® is often used to gently reverse many signs of aging in the face. While commonly used to diminish fine lines and wrinkles, crow’s feet, and loosening skin, Juvederm® can also be used to “plump up” lips, sculpt cheeks and restore a more youthful appearance to the face. The injections are made from hyaluronic acid which is a natural substance found in the body that works with elastin and collagen to create a firm and plump facial appearance. Results typically last between 6-9 months but can last longer with follow-up treatments a few weeks after the first procedure.
To learn more about Juvederm®, click here.
Restylane® St Louis
Restylane® is the world’s most demanded cosmetic dermal filler, and has accordingly be vigorously studied. Restylane® has been found to treat moderate to severe facial wrinkles and folds and can have a profound effect on the nasolabial folds that stretch from the nose to the corner of the mouth. Restylane® is designed to replace lost volume in the face creating a much more full and youthful appearance. Results are immediately visible, adding volume to shallow areas of the face.
Restylane® is a clear, synthetic gel that is made from purified hyaluronic acid. Hyaluronic acid is a natural substance that is found throughout the body and works with collagen to create a plump and firm appearance. The hyaluronic acid found in Restylane® can be engineered to develop strong bonds with water molecules in the skin to ensure long-lasting results. The effects of Restylane® can generally last up to 6 months or longer depending on the individual facial anatomy of the patient.
Restylane® is a natural substance that contains no animal products. The most commonly reported side effects from Restylane® injections are swelling, redness, pain, bruising and tenderness in and around the injection areas. Any side effects that may present themselves following the procedure typically fade within a week of the initial procedure.