Peak Dermatology, Aesthetics, and Wellness: Dr. Christopher Rex MD

Products And Services

• Mohs Surgery

  Skin cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in the United States, and it deserves serious treatment. At Arizona Institute of Dermatology, our provider offer Mohs surgery to help effectively treat skin cancer. What is Mohs surgery? Considered to be the most effective technique for treating skin cancer, Mohs surgery is a procedure in which layers of skin are removed one at a time and then examined underneath a microscope until the cancer is gone. This is why it is also known as “Mohs microscopic surgery”. It is done in stages, and is regarded for its ability to spare as much healthy tissue as possible. We pride ourselves, because we are able to remove the skin cancer one layer at a time until we can no longer find it under a microscope Preparing for Mohs surgery at our practice When arriving to for Mohs surgery, patients should clear their entire day for it, because it can take a long time due to the analysis involved. The average time is four hours, but it’s smart to be prepared. Local anesthetic is used, so you are also welcome (and encouraged) to bring reading material, your iPad, water, snacks, or even a friend to keep you occupied, since you will be awake the entire time. Be sure to follow all the guidelines that we provide you with prior to your surgery, including taking any medication that is required. We recommend Tylenol if you need pain medication, because Tylenol does not thin your blood. Please shower before the surgery, and don’t apply any type of cosmetics including lotion, makeup, or perfume. It’s also important that you wear comfortable clothing — particularly clothing that can be easily removed if it’s near the cancer. Mohs surgery details Mohs surgery is done in an operating room or office with a nearby lab so that the Mohs surgeon can conveniently examine the tissue once it has been removed. Layer of layer of tissue will be checked until the tests no longer detect any cancer. The area to be treated will be cleansed, and a numbing agent will be administered via injection to help with any discomfort. Your Mohs surgeon will remove the visible tumor along with a thin layer of surrounding tissue with a scalpel, and will place a temporary bandage. The excised tissue will be taken to the lab, where it will be prepared and put on slides by a technician and examined under a microscope. If there is evidence of cancer, another layer of tissue will be taken from the area. This process ensures that only cancerous tissue is removed during the procedure, minimizing the loss of healthy tissue. These steps are repeated until all tissue is free of cancer. While there are always exceptions to the rule, most tumors require 1 to 3 stages for complete removal. Come see our skin cancer specialist to learn more about Moh’s surgery. Can the cancer return? Although Mohs surgery has an extremely high cure rate, we will want to see you for regular follow-ups to ensure you’re remaining cancer-free. These follow-ups are typically scheduled for twice a year, but you may require more depending on how aggressive your cancer was. If you have further questions about the cancer returning, our skin cancer specialist will be more than happy to speak with you. After the Surgery Although Mohs surgery has an extremely high cure rate, we will want to see you for regular follow-ups to ensure you’re remaining cancer-free. These follow-ups are typically scheduled for twice a year, but you may require more depending on how aggressive your cancer was. If you have further questions about the cancer returning, our skin cancer specialist will be more than happy to speak with you. Recovery You may have discomfort, bleeding, redness, or swelling after the procedure, but these issues should go away on their own before long. You may also experience a sensation of tightness across the area of your surgery site. Your Mohs surgeon will give you instructions on how to clean the wound and will inform you about any medication you will need to take. You’ll need to avoid strenuous physical activity for 48 hours, and in some cases, 1 to 2 weeks. Complete healing of the scar takes place over 3 to 12 months. During the first few months, you may notice that the treated site feels swollen or lumpy, and may appear red. Candidates for Mohs surgery If you’ve been diagnosed with skin cancer, Mohs surgery may be the right treatment for you. The best candidates for Mohs surgery are those who: Have skin cancer that came back after another treatment Have skin cancer that is located on a part of your body where it’s important to keep as much healthy tissue as possible Have skin cancer that is big, or grows fast Has skin cancer with uneven edges Are a non-smoker, or are willing to quit before surgery

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• Medical Dermatology

  Providing a remarkable patient experience requires a combination of training, skill, knowledge and compassion, and that’s what our team at Arizona Institute of Dermatology. We specialize in comprehensive care for some of the more common conditions of the skin, hair and nails including eczema, psoriasis, acne, benign skin growths, hair loss, and autoimmune disorders which impact the skin. We provide diagnostic testing including skin biopsies and patch testing, and perform surgical procedures to remove non-malignant and malignant skin growths. We coordinate care when needed with our physician leadership team, and with other Arizona Institute of Dermatology specialists, and have made a huge commitment to staying at the forefront of clinical research into new technologies and medical treatments for both common and complex conditions. Acne Alopecia Dermatitis Eczema Melasma Rashes Psoriasis Rosacea Nail Disorders Lesion Removal Skin Infections

  Link: Medical Dermatology

• Acne

  About Acne Acne is one of the most common skin conditions in the U.S., affecting roughly 60 million people each year. While many cases are mild and can be controlled with medication and a consistent at-home cleansing program, many individuals have it so severely that scarring may occur. Acne generally is a combo of pimples, whiteheads, blackheads, small cysts, and other red, itchy, and inflamed areas on the skin. Caused by a blend of dead skin cells, bacteria, and clogged pores, it is most frequently seen in teenagers but can affect adults well into their 40s. Acne most often appears on the face, chest, and back. To return the skin to a healthy, glowing appearance, Christopher Rex, MD and his team of practitioners can offer numerous treatment choices, ranging from custom at-home cleansing systems to medications and laser treatments. Causes A flare-up of acne can occur for a number of different reasons, including hormonal fluctuations associated with puberty, pregnancy, and menopause. Additionally, certain medications and drugs (such as birth control pills) can cause acne, as well as stress and a poor diet. Once the precise cause of acne is diagnosed, a proper treatment plan can be established. Symptoms Acne symptoms can vary in conjunction with the kind of acne you have and its severity. Blemishes are a common, obvious symptom of acne and present in many diverse forms, such as blackheads, whiteheads, cysts, pustules, papules, and nodules. Each form of blemish ranges from mild to severe and will need to be treated accordingly. Studies have shown that acne can also create emotional symptoms, like low self-esteem and depression. Other symptoms associated with acne are dark spots on the skin and permanent scars. Treatment Options Research indicates that over-the-counter medications don’t treat acne effectively. Arizona Institute of Dermatology offers numerous treatment alternatives to control and manage acne and clear its symptoms. For milder cases of acne, prescription medications, such as topical solutions and creams that contain salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, sulfur, and retinoids, might help. There are also oral antibiotics, such as minocycline, doxycycline, or tetracycline, that are effective to use. Along with topical and oral prescriptions, laser treatments have also proven effective. Not only can a laser treatment help deep clean and attack dead skin cells under the dermal layer, but it can also help reduce redness and other pigmentation issues linked with acne. Chemical peels and extractions may also help, depending on the sort of acne you are experiencing. Clear Your Complexion If you are sick of covering your acne with makeup or enduring the physical pain, embarrassment, and emotional affliction that may develop from this condition, we encourage you to contact Arizona Institute of Dermatology to schedule an appointment today. We will provide a thorough skin analysis and create a tailored treatment plan to help clear up your complexion as swiftly as possible.

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• Alopecia

  About Alopecia Alopecia areata is identified by the rapid loss of hair on one’s scalp, resulting in patchy and random bald spots. It is an inherited condition with a more gradual process of hair loss, but it can begin to show up as early as puberty in both men and women and is sometimes referred to as male or female pattern baldness. Alopecia is highly common and will most likely affect you or someone you love at some point, which is why Christopher Rex, M.D. and his team of practitioners offer some of the most advanced hair restoration treatments to patients of all ages. This allows them to attain their cosmetic goals and return to a more enriched life as quickly as a few days after the treatment. Schedule a consultation at Arizona Institute of Dermatology if you think you have alopecia or another hair disorder. Causes Alopecia areata occurs when the immune system attacks the hair follicles, resulting in rapid loss of hair. Similarly, androgenetic alopecia results from inheriting hair follicles that are sensitive to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a derivative of the testosterone hormone. The hair follicles come under attack and react negatively with the DHT, leading to damaged or scarred follicles. In both circumstances, the hair regrowth cycle is ceased and hair loss occurs. Symptoms The most obvious symptom of alopecia is hair loss. Hair usually falls out in small round patches on the scalp. These areas are usually several centimeters or less in size. Hair loss might also occur on other parts of the body. You may first notice clumps of hair on your pillow or in the shower. However, other types of diseases can also cause hair to fall out in a similar pattern. Hair loss alone shouldn’t be used to diagnose alopecia. The hair loss associated with alopecia is unpredictable and random. The hair may grow back at any time, and it could fall out again. The magnitude of hair loss and regrowth varies greatly from one individual to the next. Treatment Options Depending on the extent and severity of hair loss, different options are available. For mild alopecia cases, nonsurgical PRP therapy uses your extracted growth factors to promote the regrowth of damaged hair follicles. However, in case a nonsurgical treatment is not effective, a follicle unit extraction (FUE) can be performed. Dr. Rex offers a minimally invasive FUE treatment with a robotic hair restoration system that effectively extracts usable hair follicles and carefully puts them to where the damaged or dormant ones were, covering the balding areas and offering a quick recovery time of only a few days. Diagnose, Then Treat At Arizona Institute of Dermatology, we understand the confusion, frustration, and embarrassment that may accompany unexpected hair loss. We have made it our mission to not only restore your aesthetic appearance but to help you realize why you are losing your hair and what can be done to potentially halt further loss. If you are ready to receive answers and head down the road toward a full head of hair, call us now to schedule your appointment. We look forward to meeting you!

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• Eczema

  About Eczema Eczema represents a series of skin conditions that are caused by several allergic reactions or occasionally from the body’s response to an immune system deficiency. The result is inflammation of the skin, redness, and itchy patches similar to dermatitis. In many cases, the inflammation itself is dermatitis. This can occur anywhere on your body, including the hands, face, neck, or other regions. Atopic dermatitis is the most common type and is normally the result of an allergic reaction. This condition normally starts in childhood. At Arizona Institute of Dermatology, Dr. Rex and his team of providers will try to diagnose just what is causing the aggravation so that a true treatment plan can be produced and carried out. Causes Doctors aren’t entirely sure what causes eczema, but it’s believed to be brought on by numerous elements. Genetics, the environment, immune system issues, skin irritants, and skin barrier defects are the most common causes. Genetics play a role because specific genes can cause you to have very sensitive skin. A patient with relatives who suffer from asthma or allergies is at greater risk of developing eczema. Symptoms Eczema is frequently characterized by red, dry, or itchy skin, as well as persistent rashes. Normally, your skin will begin to itch before a rash shows up. Many patients experience patches of skin that are chronically itchy, dry, or thickened. These patches can appear anywhere but mostly occur on the face, neck, hands, or legs. With children, patches can appear on the inner creases of the knees and elbows. Once the skin is scratched, dry patches and open sores with crust could develop and may become infected. Severe symptoms could include pus-filled blisters or a yellowish to light brown crust developing over existing eczema patches, which might be a sign of a bacterial infection. Treatment Options Eczema can be treated with a selection of over-the-counter or prescribed medication and ointments. Hydrocortisone creams and ointments can be bought, as well as antihistamines, such as Benadryl, to help relieve symptoms. Prescription medications, such as steroid creams or immunomodulators, may help people who have severe eczema. An oral or corticosteroid may also be prescribed. In extreme instances, ultraviolet light therapy or laser treatment may also be applied to the affected areas. When other therapies have failed, immunosuppressants may be prescribed since these drugs suppress the immune system. Seek Relief Today Whether you have dealt with eczema for years with little to no relief or have just recently noticed an itchy rash and a difference in your skin, there are a lot of treatment solutions available. Employing a multilevel treatment technique that includes prevention, detection, and treatment allows you to not only manage your eczema but also notice a significant decline in symptoms. Seek relief from your eczema-related symptoms today at Arizona Institute of Dermatology.

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• Psoriasis

  About Psoriasis Our providers at Arizona Institute of Dermatology assist adults, teens, and children with the treatment and ongoing control of psoriasis. This is a persistent skin condition that occurs when skin cells grow too rapidly. Psoriasis causes flaky, red, silvery patches of skin that can become inflamed, itchy, scaly, and can crust. Normal skin cells turn over and flake off about once a month or every four weeks. Those suffering from psoriasis have skin cells that build up quickly and form what are called plaques. They can range in size and location on the body, forming on the elbows, hands, knees, scalp, and lower back. There are numerous different forms of psoriasis. One kind, called plaque psoriasis, is the most commonly experienced. Although most cases of psoriasis are deemed mild, many are difficult to cure and can require a number of treatments throughout a patient’s life. It is also important to note that psoriasis isn’t contagious and can’t be spread from person to person. Once it is diagnosed, it is a matter of managing the symptoms so that flare-ups can be minimized. Causes A specific cause of psoriasis hasn’t been discovered by doctors. The basic idea is the immune system overreacts, which causes inflammation, as well as flaking of the skin. Additionally, it is believed that psoriasis can be inherited. Approximately 1/3 of people who have psoriasis have one or more family members with the condition. Scientists feel that certain genes interact with each other, which leads to psoriasis. However, you must inherit the ideal blend of genes and then get exposed to a trigger. Symptoms can appear after triggers, such as a stressful event, taking certain drugs, dry weather, or a bad sunburn. Symptoms Typical symptoms associated with psoriasis include raised, bright, red patches of skin that are covered with loose and silvery scales. Plaques can also arise in precisely the same place on either side of your body, such as on both knees and/or both elbows. Your scalp can experience anything from mild scaling to areas of thick, crusted plaques. Itching is common before flare-ups, especially when psoriatic patches arise in body folds under the buttocks or breasts. Tiny areas of skin bleeding can occur when scales are picked or scraped off. This is known as Auspitz’s sign. Treatment Options Though there is no cure for psoriasis, there are a variety of treatments available to improve the condition, depending on the severity and type of psoriasis that you have. Mild cases can be treated with prescription creams, ointments, and lotions. When your scalp is affected, shampoos, sprays, and oils can be used. Systemic medications are prescription drugs that are taken orally or by injection and work throughout the body. They are normally used on patients with moderate to severe psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. In addition, advancements in laser therapy have provided huge improvements for many psoriasis cases. Employing phototherapy to expose a patient’s skin to a special ultraviolet light helps reduce symptoms. Improve Your Psoriasis Psoriasis can be painful and embarrassing, making it difficult for you to carry out simple tasks in your everyday life. If this is the case in your situation, we encourage you to contact Arizona Institute of Dermatology at your earliest convenience.

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• Lesion Removal

  Mole, Wart, and Skin Tags About Lesion Removal There are various types of lesions, including warts, skin tags, keratosis, and moles. Skin lesions can be raised and create a bump or can lie beneath the skin’s surface and cause a dark spot. While skin lesions are typically harmless and can be left alone, patients often choose to have them removed for cosmetic reasons or to avoid potential health risks, such as skin irritation or cancer. At Arizona Institute of Dermatology, Dr. Rex and his team of providers offer lesion removal to adults, teens, and children. A variety of techniques can be used for lesion removal, including laser, excision, and shaving. During your consultation, Dr. Rex will examine the condition of your skin to decide which technique best fits your situation. Ideal Candidates Lesion removal is ideal for patients of all ages who have one or more moles, warts, skin tags, or keratoses. It can be performed for cosmetic or medical reasons. The best candidates typically meet the following criteria: Are suffering from chronic skin irritation Desire the removal of one or more skin lesion Are embarrassed by their lesions Are concerned that their lesions could pose health risks Have a skin lesion in a prominent area on the body, such as the chin, cheeks, hands, or nose Procedure Technique Lesion removal is a simple procedure performed with a local anesthetic in our minor procedure room. The method used will be dependent on the location, depth, and size of the lesion. Some lesions can be easily removed with a simple shaving technique or laser treatment, but others may require excision. The method that is most ideal for your skin condition will be discussed during your initial consult. What To Expect After your lesion removal, the treatment area may feel sensitive and uncomfortable. These symptoms usually begin to fade within a few days. Over-the-counter pain medication may be used to minimize discomfort. If your procedure required stitches, you should avoid washing or rubbing the area and follow all post-treatment instructions provided. In most situations, the skin will scab over and heal within 2 – 3 weeks with proper aftercare and application of topical medication. Remove Skin Lesions Lesions of the skin can cause insecurities and irritation. We can help restore your appearance with a fast and simple skin lesion removal. Call our office now to schedule a consult with Dr. Rex for more information about lesion removal. At your consultation, Dr. Rex will discuss all your options and determine if you are an ideal candidate for this process.

  Link: Lesion Removal

• Face

  What Is FaceTite? Also Known As a EmbraceRF or Radio-Frequency Assisted Lipolysis (RFAL) FaceTite is the most advance facial contouring and refinement procedure available. FaceTite can provide surgical-like and results with dramatically less downtime and when coupled with the Morpheus8 Microneedle you get even better results. The combination of these two technologies is known as the EmbraceRF. FaceTite provides a dramatic improvement in skin laxity on the face and neck, which was previously only attainable through a surgical procedure like a lower neck and facelift. FaceTite utilizes minimally invasive radio-frequency energy to melt fat and tighten skin. Morpheus8 Microneedle is a fractional treatment that stimulates collagen production of the underlying layers o f the skin resulting in enhanced skin tightening and texture . When To Consider FaceTite or EmbraceRF As we age, skin begins to lose elasticity, and facial tissues lose volume. Eventually, this results in “jowls” on the lower face, deep wrinkles, and loose skin on the neck. While this is a natural part of growing older, patients who are bothered by these signs of aging may find that non-surgical options like fillers aren’t enough, but a face lift is quite necessary yet, then FaceTite or the EmbraceRF procedure may be an excellent option to consider You feel self-conscious about the way your face & neck look due to sagging skin When you see your reflection, you feel that your face makes you look much older than you feel You feel that an aging appearance is negatively affecting your career or personal relationships You’re not quite ready for a surgical facelift, but need something more than fillers can offer Combining FaceTite or Embrace with Other Facial Cosmetic Procedures As the face, eyes and neck work together to create a person’s facial appearance, it is common to combine face and neck procedures to achieve a patient’s goals. Doing so helps to ensure a smooth, refined lines and naturally balanced appearance. Below are some of the common procedures that patients choose to accompany FaceTite or EmbraceRF: Neck and jowl liposuction Chin augmentation Rhinoplasty Upper or Lower Blepharoplasty Brow Lift Some of these procedures can be done non-surgically, like a blepharoplasty or brow lift, with the newest modality from InMode called the AccuTite. This device uses the same technology as the FaceTite, but in a smaller, more precise, handpiece to address delicate areas like the upper or lower lids, the brow, nasolabial folds, submental fat (double chin) and more.

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• Bodytite

  What Is BodyTite? Also Known As RFAL (Radio-Frequency Assisted Lipolysis) BodyTite PRO is a safe, gentle and effective minimally invasive procedure for body contouring. BodyTite gently treats fat in stubborn areas while tightening the skin, helping you sculpt your body into its ultimate shape. BodyTite PRO is a great solution for individuals who are looking to reduce fat without the saggy, wrinkly skin. It also helps improve skin laxity after weight loss or due to aging. When To Consider BodyTite If any of the following describe you, BodyTite PRO may be an option to consider: You feel self-conscious about the way your tummy, thighs, knees or arms due to sagging skin You’re looking for a minimally invasive option You aren’t ready for extended downtime and a long recovery process You don’t want the large scar from a tummy tuck, arm lift or thigh lift You have realistic expectations about your results with this type of procedure compared to the surgical option Combining BodyTite PRO with Cosmetic Surgery Procedures BodyTite PRO can be done on its own or in conjunction with another procedure. It can also be combined with the Morpheus8 microneedle treatment for enhanced skin tightening. Typically, BodyTite PRO procedures are done as an in-office procedure under combination of oral and IV sedation with local numbing shots and tumescent for extra patient comfort.

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• Liposuction

  What Is Lipsuction? Also Known As Lipoplasty or Lipectomy Liposuction surgery sculpts your body, eliminating unwanted pockets of exercise and diet- resistant fat from the buttocks, hips, love handles, saddlebags, thighs, calves, ankles, breasts (including male breasts), back, arms and neck. Liposuction is often combined with other procedures to create a desired shape and is one of the safest and most popular cosmetic procedures. Liposuction removes fat cells from your body, and these fat cells will not grow back. However, it is important to maintain a stable weight to ensure that your new look remains optimal. If you gain a significant amount of weight in the future, your overall appearance is likely to change as your body stores excess fat in other locations and the remaining fat cells in the liposuctioned area can grow larger. When To Consider Liposuction Both men and women undergo liposuction every year to achieve a variety of different goals. Some patients want to look better in a swimsuit, while others want to find jeans that fit more comfortably. For men, liposuction can often successfully treat gynecomastia. Dr. Rex will often use liposuction to enhance the results of other procedures. If one or more of the following apply to you, liposuction is an option to consider: If you have excess fat deposits on your hips, belly, thighs, neck or chest that won’t respond to diet or exercise. Liposuction is excellent for reducing fatty bulges and sculpting a beautifully natural contour to the body You feel like certain areas are out of proportion with the rest of my figure. Reducing excess fat on one area of the body can bring it into better balance with your natural features You have good skin elasticity – sagging skin is not a problem for me. For optimal results, the skin should have good enough tone to contract to the body’s new contours You are at or near my desired body weight. Liposuction is best for reducing localized fat deposits, and the most satisfied patients are typically happy with their overall weight before surgery Recovery & Downtime Today’s advanced liposuction techniques are designed to minimize swelling, trauma and discomfort, and recovery from liposuction can be remarkably quick. Many patients return to work 5-7 days after their procedures, depending on the physical requirements of their jobs and the extent of their procedures. Most liposuction patients will have a lifting restrictions for 1 week. You will be given your stage one compression garment to wear for the first week following surgery. Your stage two garment will be in your patient care bag and should be worn from post-op day 7 and up to 3 months post-op for optimal results. The more you wear your garments, the better your outcome. These help minimize swelling and encourage optimal skin contraction. With proper care, scars should fade significantly over the months following surgery; in many cases, scars are barely visible after a year or so.

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• Botox

  What is Botox? Also Known As a Neurotoxin or Botulinum Toxin Botox, simply put, is a prescription medicine that is injected into muscles and used to temporarily improve the look of moderate to severe forehead lines, crow’s feet lines, and frown lines between the eyebrows in adults. At Arizona Institute of Dermatology, we offer a variety of injectables, including Botox® (onabotulinumtoxinA) and Dysport® (abobotulinumtoxinA). Our providers are expertly-trained to listen to your concerns, evaluate your aesthetic needs, and recommend a custom treatment plan that is unique to you because we do not believe that one Botox treatment plan or product fits all. Is Botox right for me? Botox injections are a great fit for adult patients of any age that want to improve their appearance, not only imparting a more youthful look, but also alleviating an overly concerned look, helping you look better refreshed or even more pleasant. If you’ve been wanting to address fine lines or wrinkles, talk with our providers to learn more about which of these services is best for you and your skin. What can Botox do for me and my skin? Botox is commonly used to treat areas where muscle activity influences facial features, such as: glabellar lines (a.k.a. “elevens” or frown lines), wrinkles around the eyes (such as crow’s feet), forehead creases, wrinkles at the corners of the mouth, or a “cobblestoned” appearance to the chin. There are also many other “off-label” areas where Botox can be used. If you suffer from any of the following, Botox may be a treatment option to consider: hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating) in the armpits, hands or feet, migraines, TMJ, or grinding or clenching teeth. Will Botox get rid of wrinkles? Botox is a safe and effective way to treat wrinkles. As a neurotoxin, Botox works by targeting the facial muscles responsible for causing the lines and wrinkles visible when your face is at rest. It safely and temporarily paralyzes these muscles, greatly reducing the appearance of wrinkles. By working with a qualified cosmetic injector, like ours, to create a treatment plan, over time you can see continued improvement of wrinkles. Types of Neurotoxins: The Difference Between Botox, Botox Cosmetic and Dysport Each of these products contains the same active ingredient, botulinum toxin type A, and are designed to address the same types of wrinkles and other cosmetic concerns. So how are these neurotoxins different? The main distinction lies in their formulation, which influences the dosage used, how much the product spreads, and how quickly a patient might see the results. For example, Botox Cosmetic is formulated with an accompanying protein. Dysport contains a smaller version of a similar protein, while Xeomin doesn’t contain an accompanying protein at all. All three products are FDA approved and have been used safely and effectively for years. Which of these products is best for you will depend on your unique anatomy, your goals, and your cosmetic surgeon or nurse injector’s recommendations. Botox For Men We know that women aren’t the only ones who desire to revitalize their face as they age. Botox is a common treatment used by men to improve wrinkles, smooth the neck and reduce excessive wrinkles.

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• IPL

  IPL Photofacial Intense Pulsed Light (IPL), a.k.a. “photofacial,” treatment rejuvenates tired and damaged skin and can remove unwanted facial and body hair. IPL is similar to laser resurfacing treatments but the light is spread out into several wavelengths, making it gentler on skin for a quicker, more comfortable procedure and recovery. IPL treatment can be performed on any area of the skin that has sun damage and/or unwanted hair to improve your complexion and take years off your appearance. At Peak Aesthetics and Wellness Center, we use the Lumecca laser from inMode because it is the most powerful IPL device on the market, meaning fewer treatments are needed. What are the Benefits of IPL Treatment? The benefits of IPL treatment include: Improves skin’s complexion Turns back the hands of time on aged and damaged skin Removes unwanted facial and body hair When To Consider IPL Treatments If you have any of the following skin conditions you would like to address, it may be time to consider IPL treatment: Age spots Discoloration caused by acne Vascular lesions, including spider veins and broken blood vessels Birthmarks Rosacea Freckles Sun damage Facial and/or body hair you want to remove Where Can IPL Be Performed? IPL treatments are typically applied to the face but are also effective on any areas of the body regularly exposed to the sun, including the neck, décolletage, legs, hands, and arms. It’s important to note that skin may seem to darken within the first 24-48 hours after treatment but will lighten when your pigmented lesions flake off (about 1-2 weeks). Do IPL Treatments Work on Darker Skin Tones? Since IPL is attracted to brown pigment, there is a higher risk of hyper/hypopigmentation from IPL treatments with darker skin tones. However, Nurse Beth is highly skilled at administering IPL treatments and will let you know if this procedure is right for your skin tone during a consultation. How Many IPL Treatments Will I Need? While you’ll begin to see improvements to your skin after your first IPL treatment, we recommend 3-6 treatments spaced one month apart for best results. Ready to learn more about IPL photofacial treatment? Contact our office to schedule a consultation with our aesthetic team.

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• Hormone Therapy: Men

  What is testosterone replacement for men? Restore testosterone levels & feel like yourself again If you are feeling a lack of drive, motivation, energy, or if you are gaining weight and feel sleepy and sluggish, these may all be signs that you have low testosterone. Andropause, a.k.a. “male menopause,” is the gradual decline in testosterone levels in middle-aged men. If you have symptoms of low testosterone, you may benefit from bio-identical hormone replacement therapy for men. What is male hormone therapy like? Labs will be ordered to ensure proper dosing and optimal outcomes. Once labs are reviewed, you will come back to the office for either your first pellet place or your first injection, with instructions for continued treatment. There are different ways to administer testosterone replacement therapy, though the most popular and well-tolerated method is injections. During your consultation, we will go over your concerns and health history in order to determine which method best fits your needs. How many treatments are required? Depending on which method you choose, treatment frequency will vary. Pellets are placed every 6 months, while injections are performed weekly—either at home or in the office. Creams are applied multiple times a day. Does the treatment hurt? A local numbing shot is performed prior to the pellet placement, which normally causes some stinging. You may feel pressure during pellet placement, as well. Injections, on the other hand, may cause some slight stinging and tenderness at the injection site. What is included in the cost of treatment? A local numbing shot is performed prior to the pellet placement, which normally causes some stinging. You may feel pressure during pellet placement, as well. Injections, on the other hand, may cause some slight stinging and tenderness at the injection site. VIP BHRT Pellet Program – 12 Months $850 down payment (includes your first set full lab panel and your first pellet treatment) and then $150 / month (11 monthly auto debit payments) At-Home Testosterone Injection Program $2000 one-time fee for the full year OR $250 down payment (includes your first set full lab panel and first round of Testosterone Vials) and then $175 / month (11 monthly auto debit payments) Injection pricing includes initial consult, all labs for the year, your first injection and instructions on how to perform them at home. Testosterone Options 1. Direct Ship (Includes Vials, Syringes & Needles) Subcutaneous Bi-Weekly Injections OR Intramuscular Weekly Injections 2. Electronic Scripts to Your Pharmacy (Vials Only)** 6 month supply of syringes and needles available to purchase in-office for $20 **Patients opting to have electronic scripts sent to their pharmacy are responsible for paying for those vials separately as they are not included in the program fee. Creams and any other oral supplements or medication(s) are not included since they are customized to each patient.

• Hormone Therapy: Women

  Female Hormone Replacement Therapy Balance your natural hormone levels for improved energy, mood, & more Are you feeling a lack of drive, motivation, and energy, as well as experiencing mental fog, mood swings, feelings of sluggishness, and weight gain? These may all be signs that you have low testosterone, estrogen, and/or progesterone. Hormone replacement therapy (or HRT) can effectively control these symptoms of hormone imbalances and menopause in women. What is hormone therapy treatment like? Labs will be ordered to ensure proper dosing and optimal outcomes. Once labs are reviewed, you will come back to the office and have your first pellet placed, which takes 10-15 minutes. There are different ways to administer testosterone replacement therapy. The most popular and well-tolerated method for women is pellets. During your consultation, we will go over your concerns and health history in order to determine which method best fits your needs. How many treatments are required? Depending on which method you choose, treatment frequency will vary. Pellets are placed every 3 months. Creams are applied multiple times a day. Does the treatment hurt? A local numbing shot is administered prior to the pellet placement, which normally causes some stinging. You may feel pressure during pellet placement, as well. The site may be a little sore or tender for up to 2-3 weeks, but overall is very well tolerated by our patients. What is included in the cost of treatment? VIP BHRT Pellet Program – 12 Months $750 down payment (includes your first set full lab panel and your first pellet treatment) and then $195 / month (11 monthly auto debit payments)

  Link: Hormone Therapy: Women

• PRP Injections

  What are PRP Injections? Also Known As a Platelet Rich Plasma Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections give a boost to the healing process for wounds and soft tissue. It involves withdrawing blood, processing it so only the enriched cells (PRP) remain, and injecting it back into the person. The injections can be used for hair loss, smoothing wrinkles or restoring volume. PRP can also be applied topically and combined with other procedures like laser resurfacing, microneedling and fat transfer for enhanced results and quicker healing. When To Consider PRP Injections If any of the following describe you, PRP Injections are an option to consider: You prefer a natural alternative to treatments like Botox and Dermal Fillers You are experience hair loss or thinning Desire adding natural, anti-aging and healing properties to your laser resurfacing or microneedling treatments for acne scars, stretch marks, fine lines and wrinkles Recovery and Downtime When done as a stand along treatment or combined with another, PRP injections themselves do not have any downtime or long recovery process. It’s common to experience some sensitivity during the treatment or after at injections. Minimal bruising and swelling may occur. We proved topical numbing and pro-nox for added patient comfort during treatment if needed.

  Link: PRP Injections

• Laser Resurfacing

  What Is a CO2 Laser Resurfacing? Also Known As a Fractional Laser Skin resurfacing treatments help to restore a more youthful, beautiful complexion by removing the most damaged outer layers of skin to reveal the healthier-looking skin beneath and encouraging new, healthy skin cell growth. As the largest organ we have, our skin serves as the first line of defense, protecting us from wind, sun and debris as well as keeping out would-be microbial invaders. While it’s excellent at its job, over time the outer layers of our skin start to show wear and tear from aging, injury, and environmental factors in the form or wrinkles, scars, age spots and discoloration. Skin resurfacing treatments help to reverse these signs of aging and stress, helping you look younger, and even healthier, in the process. When To Consider CO2 Laser Resurfacing If any of the following describe you, CO2 laser resurfacing could be an option to consider: Wrinkled or sun-damaged facial skin Vertical wrinkles around your mouth, such as those that cause lipstick “bleed” “Crow’s feet” lines around your eyes and perhaps some skin laxity in your lower eyelid area Fine wrinkling of your upper eyelids Brown spots or blotchy skin coloring Certain precancerous skin growths Acne or chicken pox scars Superficial facial scars from a past injury Types of Laser Resurfacing Treaments Lasers use highly concentrated beams of light energy to improve the skin’s tone, texture and appearance. There are two types of lasers to consider to resurface the skin: ablative and non-ablative. Ablative Lasers Ablative lasers remove outer layers of skin and encourage new skin to heal in its place. How deep the laser penetrates depends on the wavelength of the light; your cosmetic surgeon will determine the best laser application for you depending on your skin type, your goals, and the nature of the problem you wish to address. Today, more cosmetic surgeons are using fractionated lasers, which only remove a fraction of the skin in the treatment area. This allows the laser to safely penetrate into the deeper layers of skin to achieve more dramatic results with minimal downtime. Minimize fine lines or wrinkles Treat brown spots, redness or discoloration for more balanced skin tone Tighten skin and encourage collagen production Remove acne or surgical scars Remove unwanted facial or body hair Non-Ablative Lasers Some lasers do not break the skin’s surface; these are called non-ablative. They work instead by heating up the skin below the surface to encourage new collagen growth and help restore the skin’s natural firmness and tone. While they work more gradually than ablative lasers, these treatments typically require no downtime and can have lasting results for rejuvenating the appearance. The improvements possible with laser resurfacing are long-lasting and can be dramatic, but they will not appear overnight. It takes several months for the full effects of new skin cell and collagen growth to take shape, and residual after-effects of treatment, such as skin that appears pink at the treatment site, can take a few weeks to subside. However, every patient is a little different. Dr. Rex and his experienced aesthetic staff will help you learn what type of results you might expect from different laser resurfacing treatment options during your consultation.

  Link: Laser Resurfacing

• Laser Hair Remover

  Diolaze Laser Hair Removal Remove unwanted hair & get lasting smooth, soft skin! Do you have unwanted hair bringing down your confidence? If you’re tired of dealing with the cost, time, and burn of shaving, level up your skincare routine with a hair removal treatment that can permanently reduce unwanted body hair and facial hair. Diolaze from inMode uses a high-energy diode laser to damage active hair follicles at the root and prevent treated hair from growing back. The Diolaze laser is FDA-approved for the safe and permanent removal of unwanted hair, revealing smooth skin with lasting results. Why Choose Diolaze? Laser hair reduction using the Diolaze laser has many benefits, including: The diode laser has one of the largest treatment spot sizes, meaning treatments are quick, easy, and effective. The diode laser has one of the largest treatment spot sizes, meaning treatments are quick, easy, and effective. Diolaze laser technology is safe and effective for reducing unwanted hair on all skin tones and types* Diolaze may not be ideal for darker skin tones, as the technology works best when there is a significant contrast in hair and skin color. However, our laser specialist is highly skilled at administering Diolaze for hair removal and will let you know if this procedure is right for your skin tone during a consultation. When to Consider Laser Technology for Hair Removal If you have unwanted hair on your face and body that you’d like to permanently reduce, you may be a good candiate for hair removal. Diolaze laser treatment can help treat any area of the body. Common areas include: Bikini area and bikini line Legs Arms, underarms and armpits Face and upper lip Chest Back & shoulders Stomach Neck & chin Sideburns How Many Treatments Do I Need to See Results? Most of our patients begin to notice significantly less hair growth and smoother skin after just a few Diolaze sessions. However, because laser hair removal works best when hair follicles are in their mature stage (which your hair is not always in), multiple treatments are required to achieve maximum hair reduction. We recommend 6-8 sessions spaced 4-6 weeks apart, depending on your hair color & type, body area, and skin tone. Sessions average 20-30 minutes or less, depending on the size of the treatment area. If hair does grow back following treatment, it tends to be lighter, finer, and, less noticeable. Pairing Hair Removal with Other Spa Services If you have another skin concern that needs attention, like sun damage, fine lines, spider veins, or scarring, on the areas where you are having hair removed, we offer a range of other spa services to improve your skin and get you the results you desire. While it is not common to pair hair removal with other treatments in the same appointment, we can create a personalized treatment plan to help you reach your aesthetic goals that may combine skin care procedures for the best results. Schedule a Consultation for your Laser Hair Removal Ready to learn more about hair removal and see if it’s a right fit for aesthetic goals? Contact our office online or call 9289510395 to schedule your consultation with our highly-trained, friendly aesthetics staff today.

  Link: Laser Hair Remover