Click on a service to find the answers to Frequently Asked Questions:

BOTOX®

Where do you put the BOTOX®?

The frown line between the eyebrows is caused by the action of a muscled called the corrugator. You can feel this muscle as a thickening just below the inside of your eyebrows, when you purposefully make yourself frown. Injecting BOTOX® directly into the corrugator muscle stops your ability to draw your eyebrows together when you frown, resulting in the gradual fading of the frown line.

When does BOTOX® start to work, and how long does it last?

The results of BOTOX® start to appear in three to ten days. The treated muscles will gradually regain their action over three to five months. When the frown line starts to reappear, a simple repeat treatment is all that is necessary to maintain the desired results.

Who can perform BOTOX® treatment?

BOTOX® must be performed under the direction of a physician. Dr. Jaffer is trained, certified, and experienced.

Is treatment effective for men and women?

Yes.

How much time does a BOTOX® treatment take?

BOTOX® treatments take only a few minutes to complete.

Is the treatment painful?

There is very little discomfort. Often, patients do not feel the tiny injection at all.

Who injects the BOTOX®?

All BOTOX® injections are done at our medical centre by Dr. Perhez Jaffer himself. We do not allow nurses or other “injectors” to perform the procedure, simply because we want to ensure you have the safest and most effective treatment available.

Chemical Peels

Will a chemical peel help my skin?

A chemical peel is a procedure that rejuvenates skin. Most individuals find benefit from the application of glycolic acid. In almost all cases, patients will notice an improved vitality of skin.

How long does it take to have a chemical peel?

About thirty minutes in total, hence it has often been referred to as “the lunch time peel”.

Can I go right back to work?

In most cases, work or other normal activities may be resumed immediately.

Is a chemical peel painful?

No. There is a mild degree of “tingling” or a slightly itchy sensation while the glycolic acid is in contact with the skin. Upon neutralizing the peel, the skin feels fresh and smooth without discomfort.

Can I go out into the sun after having a chemical peel?

You may go outside, but sunscreen must be worn for at least a few days after the peel as your skin will likely be a little more sensitive to sun exposure.

How many chemical peels should I have and how often is it recommended?

Many individuals find that a peel performed every four to six weeks gives optimal results. Glycolic acid peels complement the regular use of other products such as glycolic acid containing preparations that can be used on a regular basis at home. The short term exposure of a higher concentration of glycolic acid on a periodic basis helps maintain skin health and appearance.

Will a chemical peel remove deep lines or wrinkles?

A glycolic acid peel will not remove deep lines. Laser resurfacing is recommended in most cases where wrinkles are advanced. However, a peel will often improve the tone, texture, smoothness and appearance of skin.

Cosmetic Fillers (JUVEDERM®)

What is JUVÉDERM®?

JUVÉDERM® is a facial filler made from hyaluronic acid (HA) – a naturally occurring sugar found in your skin. It combines with water in your skin to instantly restore lost volume, smooth out lines and wrinkles and enhance lips. The smooth gel provides instant results that are long lasting and natural looking.

What areas can I treat with JUVÉDERM®?

JUVÉDERM® smoothes unwanted lines, restores natural contours and lost fullness in your cheeks, and enhances your lips to give you a youthful, natural and refreshed-looking appearance. JUVÉDERM® is used for facial rejuvenation and enhancement. It can:

  • Soften smile lines
  • Accentuate and restore lost fullness in your cheeks
  • Enhance the size and shape of your lips
  • Restore the contour of your jaw line

The most appropriate lines to treat with JUVÉDERM® are those that are described as static – the lines you can see when your face is still. JUVÉDERM® can also be used to enhance your lips or accentuate cheeks for soft, subtle results that leave you looking your best.

What makes JUVÉDERM® different from other facial fillers?

JUVÉDERM® employs a patented technology to create a smooth consistency gel that gives you a smooth natural look and feel unlike other hyaluronic acid facial fillers (that have a granular consistency). In addition, JUVÉDERM® XC (extra comfort) is a hyaluronic acid wrinkle filler containing lidocaine, a pain reliever that allows you to be more comfortable during and after treatment. JUVÉDERM® is also the first hyaluronic acid facial filler that has demonstrated effectiveness in persons of colour. Another main advantage of JUVÉDERM® versus semi-permanent fillers is that it is reversible. With JUVÉDERM® you can return to your pre-filler appearance if you don’t like the results.

What is hyaluronic acid?

Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a complex sugar naturally found in many tissues of the body such as skin and cartilage. It binds to water to create more volume and elasticity in the skin to correct the appearance of wrinkles and facial folds.

Do I need an allergy test?

No allergy test is required with JUVÉDERM®.

What’s the difference between JUVÉDERM® and collagen injections?

JUVÉDERM® is made of a substance called hyaluronic acid (HA) which with collagen, is found naturally in the skin. These two components, along with some others, tend to break down over time, causing the skin to become thinner and begin to show the signs of aging. Collagen injections have been used for some time as facial fillers to fill out the loss of skin volume, removing wrinkles and restoring fullness to the face. HA fillers, such as the JUVÉDERM® ULTRA™ range of products, have now become more popular because they can last longer – in the case of the JUVÉDERM® family, up to one year – whereas most collagen injections tend to wear off after approximately four months.
Another key benefit of hyaluronic acid treatments like JUVÉDERM® is that they bind and absorb water, helping to create volume in the face. JUVÉDERM® will replenish hyaluronic acid to refresh your appearance by smoothing away unwanted lines, restoring lost volume, and keeping your skin hydrated.

What will a treatment with JUVÉDERM® accomplish?

JUVÉDERM® smoothes away unwanted lines, restores natural contours and enhances lips to give you a smooth, natural and refreshed appearance. Most patients need only one JUVÉDERM® treatment to achieve optimal wrinkle smoothing or volume enhancement with results that last up to one year. Actual treatment results may vary from one person to another.

How long does the treatment usually take?

The injection process is quick and easy and takes only about 15-60 minutes, depending on the areas treated. You’ll also need to allow time to consult with your cosmetic doctor prior to treatment.

Is a treatment with JUVÉDERM® painful?

JUVÉDERM® is injected directly into the skin using a fine needle to reduce injection discomfort. Because JUVÉDERM® is also available with pain-reducing lidocaine, the whole injection process is a more comfortable experience.

How is JUVÉDERM® facial filler used in treatment?

Your cosmetic doctor will inject JUVÉDERM® under your skin using a fine needle. The smooth gel flows easily into the skin, providing a soft, natural look and feel. You will see an immediate improvement in the treatment areas.

How long before I see results?

Results are instant. You will see an immediate improvement in the treatment area. Most people need only one treatment to achieve an optimal outcome. Supplemental “touch-up” treatments may be required to achieve and maintain the desired look.

How long does JUVÉDERM® last?

The unique formulation of JUVÉDERM® is clinically proven to last up to one year3 with one treatment.

What is the recovery time following a treatment?

Treatment requires minimal downtime and most people return to their normal routine immediately.

What are the possible side effects?

JUVÉDERM® is generally well tolerated. Possible side effects are mild to moderate in nature and generally last less than 7 days. They may include temporary skin reactions such as redness, tenderness and bruising which may be covered by makeup.

Can people with different skin tones/colours be treated with JUVÉDERM®?

Yes. In fact, JUVÉDERM® is the first hyaluronic acid facial filler with proven effectiveness in persons of colour. Studies with JUVÉDERM® showed no increased risk of hyperpigmentation or hypertrophic scarring in patients of colour.

IPL (Intense Pulsed Light)

What is IPL?

IPL is a minimally invasive cosmetic procedure that uses high-intensity pulses of light (not laser light) to diminish the appearance of or remove a variety of skin lesions and imperfections.

At what age can IPL be performed?

There is no minimum or maximum age for IPL treatment.

What does a typical IPL consultation entail?

You will meet with the certified laser technician and doctor and they will determine if you are a good candidate for IPL treatment. The doctor will want to know about your medical history, examine your skin, and discuss why you are considering IPL. Then, the doctor will explain to you what can and cannot be treated with IPL. You may be asked to have a spot test done to see if your skin reacts well to IPL. They will also advise you on about how many treatments will be needed to achieve your goal. You should also ask about the risks associated with IPL, as well as the cost.

How is IPL performed?

The technician or doctor will determine if you need a topical anesthetic on the area to be treated. After the treatment area is numb, a gel will be applied and a glass prism will then be placed over the gel and treatment area. An intense flash of light, or pulse, is beamed through the prism to the treatment area.

What should I expect after my IPL treatment?

Unlike laser resurfacing or other skin resurfacing procedures, there is minimal downtime with IPL. Your skin may be slightly pink or red right after your treatment, and you may experience mild swelling that should subside in a few days. You can also experience some temporary pigmentation darkening which will flake off after 7 to 10 days.

Does IPL hurt?

The sensation during IPL treatment ranges from warmth to something like the sting of a rubber band snapping against your skin.

When will I be able to see the results of IPL?

You should see results after one or two treatments. Your doctor will be able to predict how many treatments you’ll need for best results.

What are the risks of IPL?

Although rare, blistering and/or slight bleeding is possible, as are hypopigmentation or hyperpigmentation (lightened or darkened areas of skin, respectively). Scarring is also possible, but rare.

Are the IPL results permanent?

Depending on your habits (sun exposure, skin care, use of sunblock, etc.), hyperpigmentation problems may be permanently eradicated with IPL. The most common result is a significant reduction of the pigmentation. Your skin will continue to age, but IPL treatment resets the clock so you look younger longer. Your physician should be able to estimate how long the effects of IPL will last in your individual case.

Laser Hair Removal

Is hair reduction with the LightSheer laser permanent?

The LightSheer laser is the only laser of its kind FDA approved for permanent hair reduction.

How many treatments are required?

The number of treatments required depends on the type of hair and the region being treated. This is due to the variation of the hair growth cycle in various regions the body. A precise cost and treatment estimate would be given at the initial consultation.

Does it hurt?

Although topical anaesthetic cream is available, most patients do not request its use.

How long does a treatment take?

The length of a laser session may range from a few minutes to two hours, depending on the size of the area being treated.

How will my skin look after treatment?

The appearance of the treated area immediately after a laser session will vary from patient to patient depending on the extent of treatment. Immediate after-effects, if any, are minor. Most people return to normal activity right away.

Is treatment effective for men and women?

Yes.

Microdermabrasion

What is microdermabrasion?

Microdermabrasion (also known as a power peel) is a non-invasive skin-freshening technique that uses mild abrasives to remove the top layer of your facial skin, revealing a newer layer that will be smoother, younger looking and virtually blemish-free.

Am I a candidate for microdermabrasion?

If you have acne and other superficial skin conditions such as discolorations, lines and wrinkles, uneven texture or sun damage, you may be a good candidate for microdermabrasion. However, microdermabrasion cannot remove deep scars or wrinkles, birthmarks or tattoos. You should not have a microdermabrasion treatment on the affected area if you have any of the following: undiagnosed skin lesions, recent herpes outbreaks, warts, active weeping acne, active rosacea, uncontrolled diabetes or autoimmune disorders.

At what age is microdermabrasion usually performed?

Microdermabrasion can be performed at almost age when there is appropriate skin damage to treat.

How is microdermabrasion performed?

The technician uses a device that sprays tiny crystals across the surface of your skin to lightly abrade it. Dead skin cells and remaining crystals are then suctioned off. The treatment lasts about a half-hour, and you may need four to eight treatments to complete the process.

Does microdermabrasion hurt?

Microdermabrasion may sting a little around the delicate area surrounding the eye, but it is not painful.

What should I expect after microdermabrasion?

After a microdermabrasion session, expect some redness in the treated area, similar to a sunburn or windburn. Results are practically immediate. You will notice that your skin is more evenly toned and textured. You can return to work immediately, but you may need to apply some loose face powder to cover any pink areas.

What are the risks of microdermabrasion?

Risks associated with microdermabrasion are few but include: hyperpigmentation, petechiae (pinpoint spots that are the result of bleeding under the skin) and infection. Microdermabrasion should be performed in a sanitary environment like a doctor’s office.

Sublative Rejuvenation (eMatrix™)

How does Sublative Rejuvenation work?

The eMatrix™ system’s ergonomic applicator delivers bipolar radio frequency energy via a matrix of 64 electrodes in the disposable applicator tip. The RF energy generates fractional deep dermal heating in the region of the electrode matrix to induce skin injury, thus eliciting a wound healing response. Mild to moderate wrinkles and superficial skin discoloration are reduced, and skin texture becomes more smooth and elastic.

Who should be treated with Sublative Rejuvenation?

Treatment is a safe and effective solution for all skin types.

When can patients expect to see results?

Post treatment, they may notice tone and texture improvements as a result of increased levels of beneficial collagen and new healthy skin cells which are produced. With the treatment’s dermal impact, mild to moderate wrinkles and superficial skin discolorations are reduced. Typical treatment protocol is 3 treatments, 4 – 6 weeks apart. The total number of required treatment sessions depends on the skin condition of the patient.

How is the Sublative Rejuvenation treatment tolerated by patients?

During treatment, many patients feel a warm, prickly sensation as energy enters their skin. After treatment a pink or red “sunburn” appearance and feeling is also common. Topical anesthetic ointments and cooling are often used to reduce discomfort during treatment.

VelaShape II™

What is cellulite?

Cellulite occurs primarily in women but sometimes in men as well. Cellulite is caused by uneven tension within the hypodermal layer of fat, creating an uneven skin surface and dimpling. Hypertrophied adipocytes, trapped lymph and poor circulation all contribute to the cellulite phenomenon.

How does the VelaShape II™ improve the appearance of cellulite?

The VelaShape II™ combines gentle light and radio frequency energies (elos™) with mechanical rollers and vacuum suction to manipulate the superficial fat tissue layer that contributes to cellulite. The heat from the light and RF energies increases metabolism of this fatty layer and shrinks the size of fat cells. The mechanical rollers and vacuum suction act on the blood vessels to increase circulation to the local area, as well as massaging the skin to achieve a smoother, less dimpled surface appearance.

How many inches can I reduce from my circumference?

In clinical studies, patients report an average reduction of 1 inch post treatment. In clinical trials, the average range of circumferential reduction was 0.5 – 3 inches.

What results can one expect from VelaShape II™ treatment?

Gradual improvement of cellulite in treated areas. Most patients notice re-contouring of areas such as saddlebags, love handles which are measurable by a reduction in circumference or girth. Added benefits of treatment include improved circulation and relief from muscles aches in the treated areas. In clinical studies, patients report an average reduction of 1 inch post treatment. In clinical trials, the average range of circumferential reduction was 0.5 – 3 inches.

How often are treatments performed?

The initial treatment series consists of 4-6 treatment sessions- treatments are performed once a week. Some patients see the improvements as soon as 2- sessions, while others may need the full 4-6 sessions. Maintenance treatments are typically done once a month after the initial series in order to keep up the results achieved. Each treatment session is between 20-30 minutes long, but the time varies depending on a patient’s size and how many treatment sites are indicated.

What happens after each treatment?
The treated area may appear flushed or pink from the heat for a short while, and may feel warm for several hours after treatment. One can resume normal activities immediately.

How does the patient tolerate VelaShape II™ treatments?
Most patients find VelaShape II™ treatments comfortable – like a warm deep tissue massage. The skin may feel warm and look pink for a short period of time after a completed treatment session. Normal activities may be resumed the same day.

Is treatment with the VelaShape II™ safe?

Treatment is safe and effective for all skin colors and can be performed even on tanned skin. There are no long-term health hazards from light or RF energies. Excessive tanning from the sun, sun-beds, or tanning creams should be avoided two weeks prior to treatment.

Who should get VelaShape II™ treatment for cellulite?

VelaShape II™ treats anyone who wants improvement of the appearance of cellulite in the thighs, hips, buttocks, and abdomen. Contouring of unwanted bulges and disproportionate fatty areas is also a benefit of VelaShape II™ treatments. The effects of body contouring and reduction of girth for some patients may be enhanced by compliance to healthy lifestyle.