Hi, I’m Dr. Qazi, and every day, I dive into the intricate world of skin restoration right here in Newport Beach, California. My focus? Acne scars, pigmentation issues, facial balancing, and collagen stimulation. These are not just procedures; they're transformations that impact lives. Today, I want to share insights from my recent experiences and address some common questions about Anti-Aging Treatments.
A Day in the Life
Today was particularly fascinating. I had a complex case involving forehead filler and subcision on the lower part of the face. This patient, an astrophysicist, struggled with scarring around her smile area, which made her self-conscious. Her story resonated deeply because she shared how societal barriers once told her women couldn’t be scientists—a narrative I’ve heard before. It’s inspiring to help someone who is breaking barriers professionally while also seeking personal confidence through skin restoration.
In cases like hers, using blunt cannula subcision rather than blades is crucial. Especially in sensitive areas such as the forehead and lower face, manual techniques ensure smoother results without causing further damage.
Achieving Optimal Results
One of my recent patients showcased remarkable progress six months post-treatment. We combined lasers, Bellafill, and TCA cross treatments to achieve a polished look. His journey underscores the importance of customizing each treatment plan based on individual needs—whether it involves addressing volume loss, texture irregularities, or pigmentation concerns.
Anti-Aging Treatments , too, play a significant role in maintaining youthful skin. Here’s what I recommend:
- Dynamic Wrinkle Management: Dysport, Botox, and Xeomin work wonders for preventing excessive wrinkle formation.
- Topical Retinoids: Low-dose tretinoin enhances cellular turnover and improves skin quality over time.
- Sun Protection: Consistent use of sunblock protects against premature aging.
- Lasers: Low-energy erbium lasers offer quick renewal with minimal downtime, significantly improving skin texture within three to six months.
Understanding Scars and Their Treatment
Scars can deeply affect one’s confidence, especially when they result from cystic acne lesions. Patients often wonder if their acne will lead to scars. Cystic lesions have a higher potential to scar, so calming down inflammation at home with silicone tape or hydrocolloid patches can help. For firm and angry-looking lesions, consult a professional for mild steroid injections.
The healing process for scars typically takes about seven to twelve months. Sometimes, it can extend up to a year and a half for optimal results. Each scar type requires a tailored approach, whether it's rolling scars, boxcar scars, or icepick scars. For example, TCA peels benefit mild superficial scarring in Fitzpatrick types one through three, but lasers often provide better results overall.
Navigating Complex Cases
Every patient presents unique challenges. Recently, I worked on a case where previous treatments had caused more harm than good. The patient underwent multiple microneedling sessions, which led to severe scarring. Such cases highlight the importance of accurate diagnosis and careful treatment planning. Adjunctive therapies like stamping devices (e.g., Banish) can be beneficial after primary treatments. They continue to stimulate collagen production without causing further damage.
For those with darker skin tones, low-energy Erbium lasers and careful prep work minimize risks. Even for Asian skin, localized CO2 laser treatments around the edges can yield excellent results without running into pigmentation issues.
Questions Answered
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Question: Will the permanent volume provided by biostimulators for contouring look weird in a few years or as you age?
Dr. Qazi: It depends on how it's done. Following natural anatomy and ensuring balanced distribution prevents disproportionate outcomes. For instance, building out the lower part of the face might be necessary if there's fat destruction due to scarring. -
Question: Do you have any acne scars?
Dr. Qazi: I still have a couple remaining, but they're really improved. It’s something I’ll address when I have time this year. -
Question: How do you know if your acne is going to lead to scars?
Dr. Qazi: If it's a cystic lesion, it could potentially lead to a scar. Calm down inflammation at home with silicone tape or hydrocolloid patches. For firm and angry-looking lesions, consult a professional for mild steroid injections. -
Question: How long does it take for scars to heal?
Dr. Qazi: Typically, it takes about seven to twelve months for scars to improve. Sometimes, it can take up to a year and a half for optimal results. -
Question: Dr. Qazi, can you go over anti-aging options please?
Dr. Qazi: Prevent dynamic wrinkles with Dysport, Botox, or Xeomin. Use low-dose tretinoin and ensure consistent sun protection. Lasers, especially low-energy erbium lasers, provide excellent results with minimal downtime. -
Question: Hi, I have scars on my face. I've tried micro subcision, but none of them seem to be working well.
Dr. Qazi: It’s possible you need volume replacement or subcision by someone else. Each case is unique, and we must tailor treatments accordingly. -
Question: Are chemical peels okay?
Dr. Qazi: Chemical peels are okay, but their effectiveness varies based on skin type and scar depth. For Fitzpatrick types one through three, 30% TCA peels can be beneficial. -
Question: Can Persian skin have TCA peel?
Dr. Qazi: Iranian skin is typically Fitzpatrick four and above. Lighter peels are preferable, and lasers or energy devices might be more suitable. -
Question: Do results vary on people's age? I am in my mid-40s.
Dr. Qazi: Age may affect the speed of results, and sometimes more treatments are needed, but the ultimate goal remains achievable. -
Question: What is microneedling good for?
Dr. Qazi: Microneedling is good for light anti-aging processes and improving skin texture. -
Question: Hi Dr. Qazi, do you treat PIE that is left after TCA cross or lasers with vascular lasers in between sessions or after finishing the whole treatment?
Dr. Qazi: Typically, I don’t see much PIH or PIE due to prepping the skin and post-treatment care. However, vascular lasers can be used if necessary. -
Question: Is ablative laser only beneficial for scars with sharp edges? Will narrow icepick scars not benefit much from it?
Dr. Qazi: Ablative lasers can benefit various scar types, including narrow icepick scars, by contracting tissue appropriately. -
Question: Hey Dr. Qazi, generally for scars, in your opinion, is what is better, the ultra pulse or fractional CO2 laser?
Dr. Qazi: Honestly, it doesn’t matter much. High heat and energy are unnecessary for scar tissue. I use settings way lower than recommended for safety, especially for darker skin types. -
Question: Average power output for ultra pulse?
Dr. Qazi: 60 watts is extremely powerful and often unnecessary for scar treatment. Lower settings are safer and effective. -
Question: Hi doctor, my face has about 8 to five shades darker than my neck and body. I am Indian with Pico laser on average. How many sessions before they can both be the same color?
Dr. Qazi: It usually takes about six to nine months with monthly Pico laser sessions to achieve a more even skin tone.
Final Thoughts
Every patient’s journey is unique, and personalized care is paramount. By focusing on tailored solutions and leveraging advanced Anti-Aging Treatments, we can achieve transformative results. Whether it’s tackling acne scars, pigmentation issues, or simply enhancing natural beauty, the possibilities are endless.
If you have any specific concerns or would like to explore treatment options, feel free to schedule a consultation at doctorqazi.com . Together, we can make strides toward achieving your best skin yet.
