Laser Hair Removal

Traditionally, hair removal techniques such as shaving, tweezing and waxing provide only temporary results and may actually stimulate hair growth. Electrolysis, while effective and ideal for white, grey and blonde hairs, often requires years of ongoing and frequently painful treatments. All of these methods often result in scarring, allergic reactions, and ingrown hairs.

Our patients are treated using the Candela GentleLASE system for hair removal to safely reduce unwanted body hair. Laser hair removal works by targeting the pigment inside the hair follicle without stimulating growth or damaging the delicate structures of the surrounding skin. Hair must have pigment to absorb the laser light. Therefore, gray, blonde and red hair colors are more difficult to treat. Because hair cycles through "growth" and "dormant" phases, we recommend a series of five treatments before long-term results are established. Maintenance treatments are often necessary.

What does the treatment involve?

You will be asked to wear eye protection to shield your eyes from the light of the laser. A small hand piece is placed against the skin and the laser is activated. After each laser pulse, a cooling spray is delivered to decrease any discomfort and to keep the skin from overheating. The hand piece is repositioned and the laser is activated again. The size or the area treated will determine the number of laser pulses required.

How many sessions are needed?

The number of sessions will vary for each individual. This is dependent on the color, size and location of the unwanted hair. During the initial visit, the laser light disables those follicles in the active phase of the growth cycle. Follicles in the dormant phase will not be permanently affected at that time. Since follicles cycle through active and "dormant" phases, additional sessions may be desired once the dormant follicles become active. For this reason, multiple treatments will be necessary. Regrowth is usually lighter and thinner. Once the decreased density is achieved, maintenance treatments are recommended approximately once a year.

Is the laser treatment painful?

While some areas of the body are more sensitive than others, most patients report manageable discomfort. The Dynamic Cooling Device (DCD) attached to the laser sprays liquid cryogen onto the skin simultaneously with each laser pulse to alleviate the slight sting of the laser pulse. This system minimizes the level of discomfort during treatment.

Are there any side effects?

Immediately after the treatment the skin will look pink and slightly swollen, similar to a sunburn. This will subside within an hour or two and the skin will return to normal.

Occasionally, a patient will have temporary pigment changes, blistering, or scabbing.
As with electrolysis, cases of scarring have been reported with laser hair removal, but these are extremely rare. A test spot is the best determinant of how each individual's skin will react.

Please feel free to contact our office at 703-560-8844 if you have any questions regarding laser hair removal or to schedule a complimentary consultation.

Botox

FAQ's about Botox


Q: What is Botox?
A: The cosmetic form of botulinum toxin administered in an injectible form.

Q: What does it do?
A: Temporarily reduces or eliminates frown lines, forehead creases, and crow's feet near the eyes.

Q: How does Botox work?
A: The toxin blocks the nerve impulses, temporarily paralyzing the muscles that cause wrinkles while giving the skin a smoother, more refreshed appearance.

Q: When will I see results?
A: Within days. Lines continue to improve for up to a month, and results can last for up to four months.

Q: Is treatment painful?
A: Discomfort is usually minimal and brief. The entire procedure takes about 10 minutes.

Q: Are there any side effects?
A: The most common side effects following injection include temporary eyelid droop and nausea. Localized pain, infection, inflammation, tenderness, swelling, redness, and/or bleeding/bruising may be associated with the injection.

Q: Will my facial expressions continue to look natural?
A: Although the results are visible, a treatment with Botox will not radically change your appearance or make it look like you "had work done". The muscle activity that causes frown lines is simply reduced.

For more information on Botox injections, please call our office at 703-560-8844 and ask to speak with Sheila.

Gynecomastia

Gynecomastia [greek for woman-like breasts] is a condition which affects up to 1/2 of the male population. It can result in terrible embarrassment, teasing, and social trauma. Potential causes include puberty, steroid use, obesity, marijuana use, and genetic disorders.

Breast growth is directed exclusively by female hormones--estrogens. Although men have some estrogen in their system, it is usually insufficient to cause much breast enlargement because it is counterbalanced by male hormones--androgens. Upsetting the balance, either by more of one or less of the other, results in the male developing female characteristics, breast growth being foremost. Failure of androgen productions can cause gynecomastia. Cirrhosis of the liver and lung cancer increase estrogen production as well.

Male breast reduction corrects over-developed male breast tissue, creating a flatter, firmer, and more masculine chest contour. Usually, the fat deposits are removed by liposuction through a small incision along the line of the nipple. Persistent excess glandular tissue, fat, and skin can be surgically removed from around the areola and from the bottom and sides of the breast.

Swelling and bruising are normal and will subside over the next few weeks. You will need to wear an elastic bandage or pressure garment as you heal. Scarring is usally minimal and will fade with time. You should avoid direct sun exposure for 6 months.

If you have any other questions about gynecomastia, and want to set up a complimentary consultation with Dr. Barlow, please give us a call at 703-560-8844.

Thanks,

Laura Dickinson
Patient Coordinator