The 5 Fingers of Aging:

Non Surgical Skin Care Treatments – Anti-Aging Skin Rejuvenation Care

In many ways, the greatest advancements in cosmetic medicine have been made in the area of non-surgical anti-aging skin rejuvenation of the face and enhancement treatments. At Finger & Associates we can provide a comprehensive array of non-surgical skin care treatments, injectable wrinkle fillers and lasers, each designed to compliment and enhance the other. Our featured non-surgical facelift treatments include Sculptra®, Restylane®, Artefill™, BOTOX® Cosmetic, the Fraxel™ Laser, Titan Laser System and the exclusive New Youth Skin Treatment System, and Perfect Peels (a series of professional skin care products).

The Symbiosis between Sculptra®, BOTOX® Cosmetic, Restylane®, Artefill™, Fraxel™ Laser, Titan™ Laser System, and New Youth Professional Skin Care Products – Results in Non-Surgical Facelifts

The benefits of non-surgical facelift and skin rejuvenation techniques are greatly enhanced when the symbiosis between Sculptra®, Restylane® or Artefill™, the Titan™ or Fraxel™ laser, and our New Youth Skin Care Products are utilized. All three skin care treatments compliment one another and literally fill-in where the other left off. Both Sculptra® and Restylane® and/or Artefill™ are highly effective in re-inflating creases and wrinkles that form when age, sun, and other extraneous factors cause the soft tissues of the face to lose elasticity and to deflate. The Fraxel™ or Titan™ laser then works to further tighten and tone the skin while promoting the growth of new collagen below the surface.

The final stage in the non-surgical facelift is our anti-aging skin care system, New Youth Skin Care Products. Ingredients for this skin care line were collected from remote parts of the Orient as well as from Russia and Brazil resulting in the perfect blend of anti-inflammatory anti-glycation agents, nutrients, minerals, and anti-oxidants. New Youth Skin Care Professional Products work to enhance the beauty, health and skin rejuvenation of the surface, as well as below in the deeper layers of tissue. Healthy skin is always beautiful.

Injection Treatments – Facelifts Without Surgery - BOTOX® Cosmetic, Sculptra®, Restylane®, Artefill™ and Lipodissolve (Injection Lipolysis) and Artefill

Lipodissolve (Injection Lipolysis) Everyone is familiar with the routine methods of surgically removing excess fat. The most common procedure performed by plastic surgeons is liposuction. If excess skin is also present, a surgical procedure called dermatolipectomy can be done, which is surgically removing skin and underlying fat. When there is only an excess of fat, with minimal excess skin, liposuction is the by far the most usual method of fat reduction. The most common areas for liposuction are the abdomen, thighs, sides, back, arms and neck. The most common excision of skin plus fat is the abdomen, as in the tummy tuck. Of course, any body part up to total body lifts are also performed when indicated. These procedures usually require general anesthesia and some recovery time.

Lipodissolve, a new technique, has entered the arena for fat removal. Lipodissolve is not indicated for overweight or for those with excessive loose skin or people simply wanting to lose weight. But for those people with areas of fat that they wish reduced, Lipodissolve may be ideal. Simply melting superfluous fat away with injections is a fascinating idea that has thus far been quite effective in most cases. Mostly performed by European plastic surgeons, their experience is with tens of thousands of patients. Lipodissolve, also called Injection Lipolysis, is injecting a product into the fat just under the skin to dissolve the fat. We expect to see some shrinkage of skin also. The product injected is called phosphatidylcholine (PPC) and is from soybeans. Lipodissolve is not indicated for those allergic to soybeans.

Technically, a Lipodissolve treatment is a 30 minute or so session requiring numerous injections of PPC. The injections are with a very small needle every one half inch or so into the area of the unwanted fat. Although this would thus require multiple injections, no anesthesia is needed, except a topical anesthetic cream. Some people do request a mild tranquilizer. Following the Lipodissolve injections, one can expect swelling for a week or so. The area will be sore, tender and pink. Immediately after the injections, we use a very powerful ultrasound machine over the area to aid in product distribution and suggest using it two or three times over the next week. Most people who undergo Lipodissolve go right back to work, although they may be somewhat uncomfortable.

It is necessary to drink lots of water before and after each Lipodissolve treatment. In addition, a post-Lipodissolve patient should not get hot for a few days, and that includes working out or taking a steaming hot shower. For the benefit, this is a minor inconvenience compared to surgery.

The total Lipodissolve treatment may take 2-4 sessions spaced at intervals of 6 –8 weeks for optimum results. Basically, each injection will remove a certain amount of fat, and if more reduction is desired, another treatment session will be needed. My impression is that it can be very effective providing there is not too much fat present. Although it is not for generalized weight loss, some weight lose may occur in addition to reduction of the area injected. The best areas to inject are the abdomen, sides (such as love-handles), the back, arms, neck and jowls. However, it can also be effective in the “saddlebags” and other fatty bulges, such as inner thighs.

The FDA has not approved the use of PPC for injection, and this may be regarded as a general risk. Studies are and have been ongoing for several years for the use Lipodissolve, and it is rapidly becoming more commonly used because it is non-surgical and requires no downtime.

For many years PPC has been used for liver protection and to reduce fat embolism in the blood. This information can be found on the Internet under lecithin, phosphatidylcholine or Lipodissolve.

Much research and many studies are being done by NETWORK-Lipolysis and others, which are available on the Internet to anyone interested in the procedure. Against the background of thousands of treatments across the world no serious side effects have been reported up to now. However, I feel strongly that it should be performed by a physician with knowledge of sterile technique, such as a plastic surgeon or under a plastic surgeon’s supervision. This will also assure being treated by one with experience in aesthetic surgery and with an aesthetic sense. It occurs to me that the most dangerous complication would be an infection at the injection sites, which should be avoided by a proper sterile technique.

Although surgical procedures such as liposuction have very few complications, it is my opinion that, as with many non-surgical procedures, we will see much more use of this procedure in the very near future.

Artefill. Artefill is an FDA approved injectable filler for treatment of wrinkles of the face. Artefill is nonabsorbable, which means it is relatively permanent.

How is Artefill used? Artefill is injected into various wrinkles, such at the nasolabial creases, which go from the corner of the nose to the corner of the mouth or the Marionette lines from the corner of the mouth downward. Artefill can also be used in other areas.

How many Artefill injections does it take? Usually two. A third for touch-up may be desired. Like any other procedure, Artefill does not stop the aging process.

Is a skin test required? Yes. Artefill is 25% particles (PMMA microspheres) mixed with 75% bovine collagen, to which one may be allergic. PMMA has been used by surgeons for implants for almost 50 years.

What is the recovery? Post-injection one may experience some swelling or a bruise much like any of the other injectable wrinkle fillers. Basically, there is minimal, if any, recovery needed.

What does Artefill treatment cost? The first Artefill treatment will start at an introductory price of $1,400 per 0.8 ml syringe. Typically one syringe is used for each session. A smaller syringe may be used for additional treatments or in someone with minimal problems, and the price would be accordingly less.

Who may inject Artefill? A limited number of plastic surgeons and dermatologists will be allowed to use Artefill initially.

Fraxel Laser. See Laser Therapy, Paragraph #2.

BOTOX® Cosmetic, Sculptra®, Restylane® and Artefill™ are injection treatment products excellent for rejuvenating your face or filling in imperfections, including acne scars. All have their unique advantages.

BOTOX® Cosmetic is an injection treatment solution for reducing facial wrinkles and creases, including frown lines, forehead creases, crows’ feet, and even wrinkles around the mouth. This product can also erase thick bands in the neck. BOTOX® Cosmetic is a purified form of a botulinum toxin which works by blocking the nerve impulses that cause your facial muscles to contract, causing wrinkles and creases. It gives skin a smooth, rejuvenated appearance, and lasts three to six months. It is often used in combination with other injectables.

Sculptra® is a synthetic injectable called Poly-L-Lactic acid. It has been used in Europe since 1999. It has primarily been used in the USA for lipoatrophy seen in HIV patients. Its use for cosmetic purposes is “off-label.” However, in the last two years it has been used extensively for cosmetic enhancement of the face and hands. Faces deflate as we age. Deflation is one of the primary causes of sagging in the face. An analogy would be a tire tube filled with air and being held by one end. If the tube is deflated by a small amount, the tube sags and wrinkles. Fill it with air again and the sagging disappears. The face acts similarly. Sculptra® acts as a filler to re-inflate, which in turn elevates the face. Treatment usually takes 3 to 4 sessions, one every 4-6 weeks, and about 30 minutes per session. Sculptra® stimulates your tissues to form collagen and become thicker, and this effect usually lasts about two years. We have been very happy with this product and often use it with other injectables.

Restylane® is a natural cosmetic dermal filler injection treatment. It restores volume and fullness to the skin and is particularly suited to fill in nasolabial folds (the creases between the nose, mouth and lips) and fine wrinkles. Like BOTOX® Cosmetic, it is quickly and relatively painlessly injected in your physician’s office, and results last up to six months. Restylane® is free of animal proteins, so allergic reactions are unlikely and no pre-testing is required.

Radiesse™ is a product that can enlarge lips and fill in folds and wrinkles on the face. It consists of calcium hydroxylapetite, a normal constituent of bones, suspended in gel. Like Restylane®, it requires no pre-testing for allergies. Radiesse™ is a dermal filler that lasts up to two years. It can treat lines and wrinkles as well as acne scars, and it can lend volume to sunken cheeks or thin lips.

New Youth Skin Care Treatment System Kit – Skin Rejuvenation

The New Youth Skin Care Treatment System has been an ongoing process of improvement in anti-aging since 1996 resulting from intensive research and development with leading biochemists. Dr. Finger designed the skin care treatment professional products line with the notion that symbiosis, the mutually beneficial relationship between ingredients, treatments and overall health, is the key to achieving the finest in facial and skin rejuvenation. The entire New Youth Skin Care Treatment products catalog is available at www.newyouthskincare.com.

Initially, the plan was to develop the New Youth System by simply including only the beneficial ingredients of other products, eliminating those that might cause irritation and inflammation.

Time, experience, and surveys of medical literature caused Dr. Finger to shift his focus to skin beauty and health through tissue repair, protection and skin rejuvenation. The secret to the effectiveness of New Youth Skin Care Products lies in the blending of anti-glycation, antioxidants, nutrients, pigment stabilizers, and anti-inflammatories. The ingredients that were chosen work synergistically, enhancing their individual effects while working individually to provide the building blocks of cell repair. In addition, the careful blends of ingredients are delivered through a revolutionary transport system that allow for fast and effective absorption into the deeper layers of the skin. Several of the ingredients are close to prescription strength; however, few prescriptions can address as many problems as the New Youth Skin Treatment System.

New Youth Skin Care Treatment professional products surpass other skin care products, including those sold in physician's offices. By using carefully measured concentrations of ingredients, New Youth products can be sold in non-medical facilities such as salons and spas, making this the most effective anti aging skin care treatment system ever offered through these venues.

The New Youth System was designed for anti-aging results, and many of the ingredients we use have been linked to the reduction of skin cancers and other cutaneous lesions. The New Youth focus continues to be the rejuvenation of the skin’s composite parts, such as the actual skin cells, elastic and collagen fibers, blood supply, and thickness.

New Youth Skin Care Treatment System Professional Products

Cleanser – This mild, non-drying cleanser is an excellent make-up remover as well as a deep skin cleanser. This will leave your skin feeling refreshed.

Activator – This is effective in retarding acne while acting as a pigment stabilizer and exfoliator. The activator will allow other products to penetrate the skin, increasing overall effectiveness. It is also excellent for the treatment of acne.

Fade Serum – This is comprised of four synergistic pigment stabilizers to reduce age spots, pregnancy marks, and other skin discoloration. This is less irritating and yet stronger than most prescription bleachers.

Retinol Silk Cream – Retinol cream is applied through microsponges for timed released penetration. This results in less irritation and no skin flaking. The retinol procedure helps with fine wrinkles and large pores

Anti-inflammatory Cream – This cream is a true anti-aging skin care complex, containing numerous anti-oxidants, anti-inflammatories, nutrients, vitamins, and ingredients for cell repair and restoration. Ingredients include Cat's claw, Russian black tea, and marine algae extract.

Age Control Serum – This is effective for all day protection against oxidation and environmental damage. The serum is comprised of highly concentrated vitamin B for cell repair, along with many ingredients found in the Anti-inflammatory cream, including marine algae extract, MAPP, and other nutrients.

Additional Products:

Acne Spot Control – This soothes and dries out inflamed acne lesions without leaving marks. It works as an alternative to injections.

Perfect Eyes – This is an exclusive blend of anti-inflammatories, anti-oxidants, nutrients and other ingredients. It helps to diminish the appearance of crow's feet and fine lines, increases skin elasticity, tone and texture, and reduces dark circles and puffiness.

Microderm Scrub – This is an effective at-home buffing cream with the same alumina crystals that are used for professional microderm abrasion. It helps resurface the skin to decrease the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, sun damage, discoloration, and large pores. Microderm Scrub can be used on the face or body.

Glycolic Acid Personal Peel – This is the strongest personal glycolic acid peel available to the public. It is used as an exfoliator to remove damaged skin and rejuvenate skin. It is to be used every 3 days, working up to more often. Some use it every day.

Peptide Anti-aging Body Lotion – This is a soothing moisturizing cream with peptides as well as nutrients from rice bran and other nutrients for overall rejuvenation. This is a true anti-aging body lotion.

Fraxel Laser Treatment

The Fraxel laser, in our opinion, is the leading edge in non-ablative lasers. This unique laser offers the same benefits as more aggressive invasive lasers, but with no downtime. It is approved for the treatment of scars, age spots, melasma (pigmentation mask from pregnancy), wrinkles, photo aging, and skin resurfacing. The Fraxel is very effective for acne scars as well. It can be used for rejuvenation of the face, neck, arms, hands, chest, and even knees. The recovery is typically minimal, if at all, and it requires no sedation or anesthesia. A full treatment usually takes 3 to 4 sessions, one every 3-4 weeks, and each lasting about 30 minutes. The Fraxel is the ultimate photo facial.

Titan™ Laser System

The Titan™ is an infrared laser designed to tighten and tone skin. It is effective for the face, neck, abdomen, arms, and thighs. Brows can also be elevated with the Titan™. Treatment usually requires three to four sessions depending on the individuals skin type. There is no recovery time following this procedure.

What is Titan™ Laser tissue tightening?

The Titan™ is the first light-based answer to sagging, aging or otherwise damaged skin. The procedure is a completely safe, non-surgical tool that utilizes infrared light to cause collagen in the skin’s dermis to contract and tighten. The outer-most layers of skin, the epidermis, is unaffected and unharmed by the heating system of the laser because it is continually cooled. The Titan™ is effective on all areas of the body where tighter skin is desired.

Who can be treated with the Titan™ Laser?

Since infrared light is used to heat the deep layers of skin, all patients seeking to tone and tighten sagging, worn, or otherwise damaged skin, can benefit from the Titan™ tissue tightening laser. There is absolutely no chance of allergic reaction from the Titan™.

The Titan™ Laser Procedure

This non-surgical treatment is performed in our office and usually takes around 45 minutes to complete. Most patients do not require any anesthetic; however, some prefer to take a mild pain reliever prior to undergoing treatment.

During the procedure, the technician glides the Titan™ computer controlled hand piece over the treatment area. Patients will feel a warming sensation as the infrared energy is delivered to the deeper layers of the skin. The collagen support tissues contract and tighten as they are heated, while at the same time the outer most layers of skin are protected by the constant cooling of the hand piece.

Benefits of the Titan™ Laser

Treats sagging and wrinkled skin
Stimulates long-term collagen growth
Provides continuous cooling to maintain comfort and enhance results
Treats all areas of the body
Is safe, comfortable, and non-surgical
Requires no injections and no recovery time

What Results Can I Expect?

Some patients will see immediate results. While some may achieve their desired results after only one treatment some may need additional follow up treatments. With the Titan™ laser, loose and sagging skin will be tightened, fine lines and wrinkles will be filled in, and deep creases will be softened.