Surgical Facelift Procedures With Minimally Invasive
Techniques: Naso-Labial Fold
Today's world of Plastic cosmetic Surgery is dedicated to smaller changes that create desired improvements - not distortions. The concept of "maintenance & upkeep" begins when you "see things you don't like" and then proceeds with taking a risk to change.
In particular, let's examine current treatment for the deep line (naso-labial fold) between the nose and the corner of the mouth, which often continues down on to the chin (marionette line). In the past, these crevices (rhytidies) were treated as part of the surgical facelift procedure most often creating a pulled and distroted "operated upon" appearance. Today, a number of minimal procedures are available to fill in these lines, which usually can be done in the office with local anesthesia.
The old standard of Collagen (processed cow skin) is still appropriate and analogous to "putty" injected into these crevices. (Zyplast is the thickest Collagen that lasts about 3-6 months, and requires a skin test prior to use.) Also available is Dermalogen (processed cadaver skin) which is thinner than Zyplast and placed more superficially in the skin (this material may last longer than Collagen, but usually requires two initial treatment sessions several weeks apart - a skin test is not longer required.)
Fat injections are again becoming more popular, not only because of the unlimited supply of our own fat available for injection, but because newer techniques may improve the fat "survival" - although results still vary and may require periodic "touch-ups." A word of caution about the "re-emergence"of silicone injections, which had previously fallen from favor - this product can "migrate" to areas outside the treatment zone and usually is permanent without ability to remedy.
Most permanent filling products are both synthetic gortex derivatives. "Softform" (hollow gortex "tubes") and "SAM" implants (Gortex strands). Both products are inserted through small incisions and placed underneath the depth of the crease - creating a natural fullness that can be lessened or increased according to the number of tubes or strands that are placed. Because the gortex is soft and flexible, yet more sturdy and "permanent" (it can also be removed) it provides an ideal alternative for treatment. Gortex is FDA approved and has been used safely over many years for cardio-vascular procedures.
The above noted procedures are seen as complementary to the more involved surgeries of the face (they can be performed at the same time - but do not "replace" the larger procedures.) However, they are also independent procedures that can be done anytime the patient is ready for such improvement, and oftentimes are "just enough" to provide the desired changes.
Dr. Barr is certified by American Board of Plastic Surgery. President of the Palm Beach County Society of Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeons and is a member of the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery. He is a voluntary assistant of plastic surgery at the University of Miami. He has been performing cosmetic and reconstructive surgeries in the Palm Beach area for the past 15 years. Dr. Barr's office is located in the Victor W. Farris Building, 1411 North Flagler Dr., Suite 5800, West Palm Beach, FL 33401. For more information on these or other procedures, Dr. Barr can be reached at 561.833-4122 or by email at FMBARRMD@aol.com
