There are 3 common name brands for neuromodulators in esthetics: Botox, Xeomin, and Dysport. The differences between the three are much like the difference between other name brands of drugs (the same active ingredient, with otherwise subtle differences). For example, about half of patients using Dysport usually start to see results within 2-3 days, and results can last as long as 5 months. On the other hand, Xeomin and Botox take about 5-7 days to start to see the effects, and the results may last up to 3 months. In my practice, I see all patients for a recheck in 2 weeks to ensure results are as expected, and to make any adjustments free of charge.

Hyaluronic fillers are charged by the syringe. Usually, it takes an entire syringe (about 1cc) or more to see desired results in areas that are being filled or “plumped” (such as lips, laugh lines, and deeper wrinkles in the face). On the other hand, neuromodulators for frown lines on the forehead and between the brows or crow’s feet around the eyes, are usually injected and billed per “unit” of the medication. Some facilities charge for neuromodulators by the area (i.e. lip flip, crow’s feet, “elevens”, or forehead). If this is the way your facility charges, be sure to ask how many units are included for each area treated and what is the charge if you need more.

Emsculpt is a noninvasive body sculpting procedure that is completely painless and offers fat reduction and muscle building in the abdominal muscles, buttocks, triceps, biceps and calves. This service is perfect for those who are already working on their fitness, but have trouble spots, such as a “tummy pooch” or “bat wings” under the arms. Emsculpt takes 30 minutes, and with four sessions, you will be seeing results in about 1-2 months. You can maintain the results with one “touch-up” session per year.

Vanquish ME is a non-invasive, radiofrequency fat “burner”; ME means “maximal energy”.  It causes permanent fat cell destruction on problem areas on the body that are resistant to diet and exercise (thighs or abdomen, including love handles).  Patients can lose 2-4 inches in their waistline and have a smoother, firmer appearance with four, 30-minute treatments once weekly.  It is painless and feels like a warming sensation (heating pad) applied to the skin. After fat cell death, the body naturally disposes of the fat cells through normal regulatory processes.  Fat cells do not return to the treated areas.

The RF in RF microneedling stands for “radiofrequency.” This procedure utilizes the state-of-the-art Lutronic Infini to make small, controlled punctures to the skin. It also delivers safe radiofrequency waves that are designed to amplify the benefits of the procedure.  This prompts your body to naturally heal itself by creating more collagen and elastin.  The procedure helps to reduce pore size, correct fine lines and wrinkles, and improve acne scarring.  With RF microneedling, the use of radiofrequency waves allows us to reach deeper layers of the skin safely, thus producing superior results to microneedling alone.