Ask the Plastic Surgeons

By Wendell Smoot, MD, Reza Sadrian, MD, Carol Hollan, MD and John Smoot, MD

Q. I’m looking for an alternative to plastic surgery that will rejuvenate my facial appearance without a surgical procedure. What are my options?

A. New advancements in laser technology and injectibles are changing the way both men and women approach the anti-aging process. We have a variety of options that are less invasive and popular with an increasing number of patients that are searching for a more realistic way to fend off aging without the downtime of surgical procedures.

These options resonate with our clientele who are seeking a more realistic, affordable and accessible alternative to plastic surgery. This time of year is particular advantageous to conduct laser treatments, when the facial skin is not as vulnerable to the harsher rays of the summer sun. Additionally, laser treatments stimulate the body to repair itself gradually, which creates a more subtle and natural-looking result. We use injectibles and fillers to replace volume and slow down or postpone the effects of the aging process, not reverse it.

It’s critical to discuss with your physician the results you are seeking with one of these treatments, particularly when it comes to injectibles. If you prefer a natural look that allows for flexible facial expression and movement, relay this in your initial consultation. Less is always more; if you find that you need to return for additional treatments, it’s easier to add and virtually possible to take away what has already been injected.

In our practice, we utilize s a state-of-the-art laser machine called the Sciton XC laser to perform a Micro Laser “Fresh Peel”. This technologically advanced treatment removes a minute layer of damaged skin to improve texture and provide a more youthful appearance. It provides superior results because it can be administered with great precision of depth.

During the Micro Laser “Fresh Peel”, a beam is scanned over a treatment area to remove a very thin layer of skin, which takes with it damaged cells. As the skin heals, fresh cells grow to reveal healthier looking skin, reduced wrinkles, minimized scars and improved color evenness. The result is skin that looks vibrant and glowing. Although there is minimal down time of one to two days, the results are extraordinary. Other non-invasive options include microdermabrasion and chemical or enzyme peels, which we conduct out of our Laser and Skin Care Center. As always, we recommend you discuss your options with your dermatologist and plastic surgeon.

John Smoot, MD, is Chief of Plastic Surgery at Scripps Memorial Hospital-La Jolla and Wendell Smoot, MD, has been voted by his peers as Top Doctor in San Diego for five consecutive years. Carol Hollan, MD, is San Diego’s first female board-certified plastic surgeon while Reza Sadrian, MD, is one of very few plastic surgeons dually certified in plastic and reconstructive surgery as well as oral and maxillofacial surgery. The practice has over 20 years of tenure in the industry and each is individually board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. Any of the physicians can provide consultations on plastic surgery procedures and/or laser and skincare treatments