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When I received an email invite from a publicist friend about trying a medical-grade chemical peel in the comfort of my own home, I don’t even think I blinked before writing back that I was in. From [Fraxel](https://aedit.com/procedure/nonablative-fractional-lasers) to [tattoo removal](https://aedit.com/procedure/laser-tattoo-removal), I’ve been a guinea pig for all sorts of skincare treatments over the course of my career — but this was different. 

[Medical-grade chemical peels](https://aedit.com/aedition/difference-between-medical-grade-chemical-peels-at-home-exfoliators) are usually only enjoyed in a professional setting, yet I was being offered the opportunity to mix and apply the peel myself under the close watch of an aesthetician via FaceTime. I’m not sure if I was more excited to play skincare mixologist or to see the results. While there have been plenty of COVID-19 quarantine horror stories about [dangerous DIY dermatology treatments](https://aedit.com/aedition/dangers-of-diy-at-home-dermatology-beauty-treatments), this felt like a unique opportunity to enjoy in-office results at home in a safe and effective way.

Here’s everything you need to know about my experience from the first consultation through recovery and results (spoiler alert: they lived up to my expectations).

## **Step 1: The Consultation**
The plastic surgeon offering this treatment is [Kevin Tehrani, MD](https://aedit.com/provider/kevin-tehrani-md-91), a board certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon and founder of [Aristocrat Plastic Surgery & MedAesthetics](https://www.aristocratps.com/) in New York City. I worked closely with his medical aesthetician, Louisa Agate, who was very empathetic and cared about my results just as much as I did. The process included a [virtual consultation](https://aedit.com/aedition/virtual-consultations-telemedicine-plastic-surgery-dermatology-cosmetic-dentistry), where we spoke about my skin and the concerns I have. My biggest skincare concern has always been [hyperpigmentation](https://aedit.com/aedition/what-its-like-to-treat-hyperpigmentation-with-skincare-cosmetic-treatments), but lately it’s acne (hi, [maskne](https://aedit.com/aedition/how-to-treat-prevent-acne-caused-by-covid-19-masks-face-coverings)) and texture as well.  

## **Step 2: The Prep**
Once I received the products and tools for my customized peel, Louisa and I got back on the phone to discuss the ingredients, pre- and post-peel care, and what I could expect in regards to peeling. I learned the peel would have three layers consisting of:

1. A [vitamin A](https://aedit.com/aedition/guide-to-vitamin-a-retinol-retinoids-in-skincare) solution
2. A kojic acid and [vitamin C](https://aedit.com/aedition/guide-to-topical-vitamin-c-in-skincare) lightening oil
3. A mask made up of hydroquinone, vitamin C, kojic acid, and arbutin  

After application, she told me I would leave the concoction on for six hours.  

## **Step 3: The Treatment**
On our third and final FaceTime, Louisa walked me through applying the peel. Before getting started, she instructed me to wipe my cleansed face with alcohol and apply a bit of Aquaphor to the inner and outer corners of my eyes, corners of my mouth, rim of my nose, and lash line to protect them from any solution that may drip or spread. If the peel were to settle in those areas, it could burn the skin or cause a rash. Together, we mixed and applied the three steps — layer by layer. After 20 minutes of application, it was time to wait. Six hours later, as instructed, I washed it all off.

## **Step 4: The Results**
I expected to start seeing flakes around my mouth on day three and peel for up to 10 days.  However, Louisa mentioned that, since my skin was used to retinol, I may not peel all that much. As a matter of fact, I didn’t peel at all. Instead, I experienced a breakout around my chin, which cleared up in about a week. Overall, I’m really happy with the results. My skin looks brighter and healthier. The tone is more even and my pores appear smaller.

<CaptionImg url={https://images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/2k25y7OiOgAUbV9Z5PlY9a/9e0dbb52d82cc843f911df04b8363f25/AEDIT-Tehrani-Peel.png}>
  The writer's skin before (*left*) and one week after treatment (*right*).
</CaptionImg>

Dr. Tehrani is offering this at-home service to remote patients. If you’re interested in learning more about his medical grade chemical peels and booking your own, [request a virtual consultation](https://aedit.com/provider/kevin-tehrani-md-91).

Patient Perspective

Typically performed in a doctor’s office, one New York City-based plastic surgeon created a socially distant way to treat his patients virtually.

What It's Like To Try A Medical-Grade Chemical Peel At Home

What Happened When I Tried A Medical-Grade Chemical Peel At Home

ariel-pilotto-wmnxo5 jYXM-unsplash

Despite the fact that I have heard from many friends and colleagues that they felt perfectly safe [going to a nail salon](https://aedit.com/aedition/what-its-like-to-visit-a-nail-salon-during-covid-19) for a manicure and/or pedicure during the COVID-19 pandemic, I haven’t made it in for a service. In fact, I haven’t had a professional pedicure since the summer of 2019. Yes, I am a beauty editor who loves to paint her [fingernails](https://aedit.com/aedition/how-to-treat-damaged-dry-brittle-finger-nails-cuticles) on a weekly basis and methodically layers creams and balms on her hands every night while pretty much neglecting everything that happens below the ankles.

For context, I live in New York City (which means I walk just about everywhere) and my go-to form of exercise during the pandemic has been socially distanced runs around my neighborhood. Needless to say, my [feet](https://aedit.com/aedition/cosmetic-treatments-procedures-for-feet-nails-toes) have seen better days. So, you can imagine my delight when I was invited to [Medi Pedi](https://medipedinyc.com/) — the midtown Manhattan mecca for medical-grade pedicures — to try the signature “medicure” service that is customized for every client depending on their needs.

## **What Is a Medical Pedicure?**
For starters, you might be wondering what differentiates a medical-grade pedicure from one you would get at your local nail salon. Perhaps the most obvious distinctions are the lack of water and nail polish, though there is plenty more that make medical pedicures unique. “Medical nail technicians are trained to detect and treat harder to deal with ailments like athlete’s foot, fungus, corns, and more,” explains [Marcela Correa](https://medipedinyc.com/about-1), a licensed professional medical pedicurist and founder of Medi Pedi. “Even when it comes to basic nail cutting, knowing the proper technique will prevent the nail from getting ingrown and causing the client more trouble in the end.” 

Whether you take great care in tending to your feet or treat them more as an afterthought, little issues can turn into bigger problems if they are not addressed properly. “More often than not, the reason why small ailments turn into more dangerous ones is due to lack of knowledge,” Correa says. “When getting a medical pedicure, not only do your feet get the makeover they need, you leave with the knowledge of how to maintain them healthy for a longer period of time.” 

A medical pedicure also has both immediate and long-term effects. “The treatment has many amazing benefits, with the main one being the prevention of serious infections,” Correa shares. The hygienic standards are — surprise, surprise — medical-grade, which assures the treatment is safe and effective for everyone (including those with underlying medical conditions like diabetes, she says). “Not worrying about if your tools are clean or if your nail tech knows about that weird thing on your nail gives you room to relax and enjoy the experience,” Correa adds.

## **The Treatment**
When I arrived at Medi Pedi, I was greeted by the masked office manager who immediately took my temperature and offered me hand sanitizer. I was then whisked away to my treatment room as to avoid unnecessary interaction with other clients. While Correa and her team have made some adjustments during the COVID-19 pandemic, hygiene and privacy have always been a priority.

<CaptionImg url={https://images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/5WMx2Li4jlZNhQJIzig8Oc/b43d674cabd8a47b7adee6c3f989590d/AEDIT-office-3.png}>
  A look inside a Medi Pedi treatment room
</CaptionImg>

Correa describes her signature service as “a facial for your feet.” I would liken it to a no-frills facial —  you know, the kind that is all about results — in the best way. The non-invasive, dry treatment lasts about an hour and focuses on the hygiene and aesthetics of the toenails and soles of the feet. It can target and treat athlete’s foot, corns, calluses, dry and cracked heels, ingrown and overgrown toenails, [nail fungus](https://aedit.com/aedition/what-your-nails-say-about-overall-health), nail discoloration, and more.

### **Step 1**: Cutting & Filing the Nails
Correa’s long-time associate Alejandra began my treatment by asking me if I was experiencing any pain, as she creamed my heels and placed (ingenious) silicone slings on top. I was not, and she quickly got to work manually cutting and filing my nails and cuticles. When she noticed pesky corns on each of my pinky toes, she cut them out with ease.

### **Step 2**: Buffing the Nails & Cuticles 
Next up? The electric nail file to buff my nails and remove the buildup of dry, dead skin. There were different attachments used for different toes, and she asked me to tell her if I experienced any pain or discomfort along the way (I didn’t). I had a small crack in my right big toenail that she was able to smooth, and the file removed all traces of surface stains from the nail plate. A dollop of cuticle oil on each toe started to rehydrate the freshly filed skin around my nail beds, and she finished up this part of the process by removing the silicone slings from my heels.

### **Step 3**: The Diagnosis 
At this point, Correa came into the room and immediately detected the very early stages of athlete’s foot on my soles. She recommended I pick up an over-the-counter antifungal cream on the way home to nip it in the bud (needless to say, I took her advice). She also asked if I walk around barefoot at home. I sheepishly told her I do. She thanked me for my honesty and told me she could tell. Even so, she said my feet were in good shape. I thought she might be trying to make me feel better, but Alejandra confirmed the damage was mostly cosmetic.

### **Step 4**: Buffing the Bottoms
Now it was time to focus on the bottoms of my feet. Correa applied moisturizer (a must before buffing, as not to damage healthy skin) and got to work on my heels with a single-use foot file. She recommends her clients do this once a week at home, filing in the same direction as the cracks. Her one rule? Skip the pumice stone because it harbors bacteria. She buffed my soles as well, and it’s safe to say they’ve never been smoother. All the while, she placed my shoes under a UV lamp for 15 minutes to kill any bacteria that was causing them to be, in her words, “sick.” 

### **Step 5**: Finishing Touches
As I mentioned, there is no polish with this pedicure, but that doesn’t mean your feet don’t look fabulous when you leave. Alejandra finished my treatment by giving my nails one last buff and shine that made them gleam more than any high-shine top coat ever has. 

## **The Verdict**
Nearly two months later, all traces of athlete’s foot are gone, my cuticles remain crisp, and my toenails are still shining bright like diamonds. Correa says she sees clients with painful ingrown nails and corns every four to six weeks — but every three months will do for most. I, for one, can’t wait to go back.

“To maintain an independent and pain-free lifestyle, our feet must be in tip-top shape,” Correa insists. What may seem like a mild concern (think: discoloration or peeling) can worsen into time-consuming conditions that were easily preventable. “Things like ingrown nails, thick nails, and cracked heels can cause pain that eventually affects every aspect of your life,” she explains. “Unbeknownst to many, most back problems start with the way we walk. You can think about that next time you shift your weight to avoid that painful nail that's been bothering you.” 

Her main advice? Wear comfortable shoes and don’t neglect your feet. “Caring for your feet is as vital as caring for your teeth, skin, or any other part of your body,” she says. Noted.

After 18 months without a pedicure, one writer tried a medical-grade treatment to transform her tired feet.

The Benefits Of A Medical Pedicure For Feet, Toes, And Nails

How A Medical Pedicure Revitalized My Neglected Feet

Priori2

The gadget you are about to see is not a time-traveling device from the future but is, in fact, the [Priori Skincare UnveiLED Mask](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.skinstore.com%2Fpriori-skincare-unveiled-mask%2F12708864.html) featuring light emitting diode (LED) technology. Priced at $395, this silicone mask is meant to use the power of red LED light to reduce facial lines and wrinkles, brighten skin, and improve texture in 10 minutes a day. Since that all sounds fairly amazing and I had some time on my hands during lockdown, I figured I’d offer up my face as a guinea pig for the mask that the brand sent over to try. Here’s what happened after a few weeks of use.

## **The Potential Magic of LED**
First, a bit of background on [LED light therapy](https://aedit.com/aedition/everything-you-need-to-know-about-the-benefits-of-light-therapy). I knew that, in theory, it really could make a difference in my skin. [Studies have shown](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5843358/) LED light to have various benefits ranging from lessening acne and rejuvenating aging skin to assisting in wound healing after surgical and resurfacing procedures. I reached out to New York-based board certified dermatologist [Dendy Engelman, MD](https://aedit.com/provider/dendy-engelman-md-312), (who I’ve seen as a patient myself over the years) to find out a bit more about it. She explains that LED light works by “emitting infrared lights — causing heat — in different wavelengths and spectrums, which have different skincare benefits.” 

If you’ve seen other LED devices, you might have noticed an array of colors ranging from yellow and green to red and [blue](https://aedit.com/aedition/how-your-phone-might-be-aging-you). The [Priori](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fprioriskincare.com%2F) mask employs red light, which she says is most commonly used to promote circulation as well as “building, strengthening, and maximizing cellular structure.” 

As is the case with most at-home offerings of in-office treatments, the [DIY versions](https://aedit.com/aedition/maintaining-skin-with-devices-skincare-products-between-cosmetic-procedures) tend to be less effective, though she insists at-home masks will get you noticeable results with continued use. And, most importantly, she assured me that it’s safe. “The light doesn’t cause any burns or skin damage,” Dr. Engelman explains. “It’s virtually painless, and, for some, the colors are very relaxing.” But, as always, tell your doctor about any and all your conditions (like photosensitivity) just in case.

## **Going for Silicone**
There are several LED masks on the market these days, but the Priori model caught my attention because it’s made of a flexible silicone. That means it can mold more effectively to the face than the hard-shell styles out there. I’ve got a small mug and a Roman nose, so I need something that bends to hug my contours. It also claims to help super-charge skincare ingredients, which is why I smeared the [Priori Skincare DNA fx221 Recovery Serum](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.skinstore.com%2Fpriori-skincare-dna-fx221-recovery-serum-50ml%2F12515023.html) on before every session.

<CaptionImg url={https://images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/3BtwLq67osQGtse2CPjbiZ/a24b23e379e02bb3fc3161d6a630b507/AEDIT-PrioriMask.png}>
  A look at the outside and inside of the Priori Skincare UnveiLED Mask 
</CaptionImg>

As for the experience of using the mask itself, well, there’s not much to report — and I mean that in a good way. It stays on via a Velcro strap around your head and isn’t hot to the touch or uncomfortable to wear. It has a built-in timer, so it shuts itself off after 10 minutes. The lights don’t hurt my eyes at all. The most I can say about them is that they’re distracting, so I gave up quickly on trying to get anything done while wearing it. It’s for the best, since the Priori folks had suggested I relax with my eyes closed while wearing it to get the most benefit on my eyelid lines anyway. Sometimes I combined it with a guided meditation session because who doesn’t love multitasking? 

## **The Results** 
Before we get into the before and after, I want to be upfront with the fact that I got a fresh round of [Botox®](https://aedit.com/aedition/comparing-neurotoxin-botulinum-type-a-injections-botox-dysport-jeuveau-xeomin) about half-way into my trial, which softened the lines on my forehead. All the rest of my skin changes, however, were thanks to the mask. In fact, the only thing I’ve got on my skin in the before-and-after pictures below is moisturizer ([Crème de la Mer Moisturizing Cream](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sephora.com%2Fproduct%2Fcreme-de-la-mer-moisturizing-cream-P416341), if you’re curious).

<CaptionImg url={https://images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/3Y1x67KAi7WIYf8AFuluhz/7c863f132ae3ddc9e5dde05b1617da9d/BeforeAfter.jpg}>
  A before-and-after look at the writer's skin after four weeks of use
</CaptionImg>

The first benefit I noticed? About two weeks into my month-long trial, my skin looked glowier. Like, a lot glowier. But it wasn’t until I did a side-by-side comparison at four weeks that I realized how much it’s improved my skin tone. The ruddiness on and around my nose has softened significantly, and my pores are less noticeable.  

<CaptionImg url={https://images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/4EyLGCRJUZsylnxHE1Ke7c/72a781a9951ac166de922945c956fd50/After.jpg}>
  The writer's complexion after using the LED mask for a month
</CaptionImg>

I can’t say that I’ve noticed any line softening yet. But, with having to discount my forehead because of the Botox®, I’m obviously not the best example of what it can do in that category. I plan to continue using it to see if it eventually helps my marionette lines. Even if it doesn’t, the glow and skin tone changes are enough to keep me going. 

So, beam me up, Priori. I’m now an LED believer. 

*All products featured are independently selected by our editors, however, AEDIT may receive a commission on items purchased through our links.*

One writer test drives the $395 at-home LED light therapy mask for a month to see if she'd have smoother and more even skin.

What It's Like To Use The Priori Skincare UnveiLED Mask For At-Home LED Light Therapy

What Does A $400 LED Face Mask Actually Do?

sincerely-media-lQ3go6MNPzo-unsplash

New Year’s resolution season is upon us. Here at AEDIT, we are dreaming up ways to improve our skincare routines and try new aesthetic procedures. From resuming in-office procedures (with the [proper COVID-19 protocols](https://aedit.com/aedition/how-plastic-surgeons-and-cosmetic-surgery-patients-are-coping-with-covid-19), of course) to trying out an [at-home beauty tool](https://aedit.com/aedition/beauty-massage-for-face-body) (or two!), the AEDIT team has an array of aesthetic plans for the New Year and beyond. Keep scrolling to see the skincare habits #TeamAEDIT is planning to adopt and the cosmetic treatments we’d like to try in 2021.

### **1. Kristin, Sr. Growth Marketing Manager** 
I'm planning to get more consistent with my in-office skincare treatments (with all the necessary COVID-19 precautions), which means more regular facials (I particularly like the [HydraFacial®](https://aedit.com/procedure/hydrafacial)) and potentially starting a [superficial chemical peel](https://aedit.com/procedure/superficial-chemical-peels) regimen to combat aging and boost collagen production.

### **2. Matthew, CTO**
I have lost weight during the pandemic, but I still am not happy with my chin. I tried [Kybella®](https://aedit.com/procedure/kybella) a few times, but it didn't work. I am looking at alternatives like [CoolSculpting® CoolMini](https://aedit.com/procedure/cool-sculpting).

### **3. Cynthia, Account Manager**
In addition to my existing skincare routine, I plan on using a rose quartz [gua sha](https://aedit.com/aedition/everything-you-need-to-know-about-gua-sha) tool (like [this one](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sephora.com%2Fproduct%2Fgua-sha-facial-lifting-tool-P432823%3FskuId%3D2113561) from Mount Lai) to massage serums and [face oils](https://aedit.com/aedition/benefits-of-face-oil-for-all-skin-types) into my skin to improve circulation and promote lymphatic drainage. I start with cleanser, use toner, and then apply eye cream, serum, and face oil. I will use the gua sha to thoroughly massage my skin in upward motions, especially on the neck, and then will follow with moisturizer and mineral sunblock to seal it in. One in-office treatment I am seriously considering is [lip augmentation and filler](https://aedit.com/procedure/temporary-lip-fillers). I believe it will make my overall smile and mouth area more symmetrical and boost my confidence. 

### **4. Vivien, Editor**
This year, I want to be more diligent with at-home products that aren't skincare related. The first is to be consistent with my [NuFACE](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sephora.com%2Fproduct%2Ftrinity-facial-toning-device-P383183) microcurrent device on a daily basis because saggy jowls are something I've noticed in my family; the second is to integrate more [haircare](https://aedit.com/aedition/at-home-hair-care-tips) products to help with hair loss and thinning hair. I am turning 30 this year, so my plan is to try more in-office treatments like Botox® (it will be [my first time](https://aedit.com/aedition/everything-you-need-to-know-before-getting-botox-for-the-first-time)) and to get a light chemical peel. Quarantine has made me feel as though I've aged five years, so it's time to put my skin into the hands of a board certified professional.

### **5. Austin, Provider Solutions**
I am considering [jawline fillers](https://aedit.com/aedition/8-ways-to-get-a-more-defined-jawline) going into 2021. My main motivation is my upcoming wedding. One issue I've found is that I am never happy with my side profile or chin in candid pictures — engagement photos being an example. I don't want to be over-analyzing pictures that I will have for the rest of my life, so I'm considering fillers as an option in March or April.

### **6. Jenny, Senior Director of Product** 
I have a three-year-old son, so not falling asleep with my makeup on is an aspirational goal for 2021! I want to keep up the habit of using [my Paula's Choice retinol cream](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.paulaschoice.com%2Fclinical-1pct-retinol-treatment%2F801.html) at night because of the [scientific evidence](https://aedit.com/aedition/guide-to-vitamin-a-retinol-retinoids-in-skincare) of its effectiveness for skin rejuvenation. Also, I'm trying to be obsessive about applying [sunscreen](https://aedit.com/aedition/how-to-apply-sunscreen-and-not-miss-a-spot) every day. I'm data and research obsessed, so now that I'm working at AEDIT, it's my goal to up my knowledge on the most science-backed treatments to invest in. 

### **7. Chris, Sr. Software Engineer**
With the significant increase to the frequency and intensity of [handwashing](https://aedit.com/aedition/how-to-wash-hands-best-creams-tips-to-prevent-dry-skin) due to the pandemic, my hands have been taking a beating that's been amplified by my seasonal dry skin. As such, I'm going to make hand moisturizing ([this is the good stuff](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.kiehls.com%2Fbody%2Fhand-creams-hand-salves-and-soaps%2Fultimate-strength-hand-salve%2F3700194708399.html)) part of a daily routine to try to get ahead of it instead of just using it reactively when my hands get bad. 

### **8. Témi, Assistant Editor**
In 2021, I want to try [laser hair removal](https://aedit.com/aedition/laser-hair-removal-vs-electrolysis-whats-the-difference)! I’m tired of razors and depilatory creams, but I know I’ll need to search extensively to find a place that can safely remove dark hair from dark skin.

### **9. Rebecca, Brand Marketing Manager**
I would love to learn how to incorporate more ‘good acids’ into my skincare routine, as well as making sure I wear an [eye cream](https://aedit.com/aedition/eye-creams-serums-to-treat-crows-feet-dark-circles-puffiness) and [SPF](https://aedit.com/aedition/best-lightweight-non-greasy-sunscreens-to-wear-indoors) everyday. I started using [hyaluronic acid](https://aedit.com/aedition/guide-to-hyaluronic-acid-in-skincare-dermal-filler) and [glycolic acid](https://aedit.com/aedition/guide-to-topical-alpha-hydroxy-acids-in-skincare) to slow down small signs of aging [in my thirties](https://aedit.com/aedition/best-skincare-routine-products-ingredients-for-30s). I really miss getting facials, so I would love to give myself at least one facial a week to help address any seasonal skin needs.

### **10. Harlan, Talent Acquisition Partner**
I want to add some sort of moisturizer to my regimen. I know I need to get a good moisturizer to use every day, and I just haven't done it yet. 2021 will be the year I do it!

### **11. Revati, Front End Developer**
In 2021, I want to try nutritional supplements to improve my skin from the inside out. My skin started looking really pale and dull during quarantine, so I've been eying the [HUM Glow Sweet Glow Gummies](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.humnutrition.com%2Fproduct%2F42%2Fglow-sweet-glow). I've had good luck with their other supplements in the past, so I hope this makes a difference!

### **12. Anne, User Researcher**
A weekly bath and face mask sounds nice and achievable. I used to do it religiously in NYC, but I’m now remote from my family home in central Pennsylvania, and I've lost track of that good habit. Maybe a ‘blocker’ is sourcing a good face mask. I used to pick up random sheet masks while on lunch breaks in the city, but I'll ask our editorial director Meg (sorry, Meg!) or my older sister — those are my two beauty resources — for recommendations. Now that I think about it, the real ‘blocker’ is the lack of ambiance in my childhood bathroom. Just putting those words together sounds so unappealing, and the tub shape doesn't allow for me to use my little [wooden bath tray](https://aedit.com/aedition/best-bubble-bath-products-for-adults) or set a candle nicely on the bathtub edge. Now I have a new project! I'd also like to become a woman who gets a facial every season. The last one I got was before I started my job at AEDIT. It was a treat from my older sister (the beauty resource mentioned earlier). This goal may be slightly delayed until I can [safely enter a spa](https://aedit.com/aedition/what-its-like-to-get-a-facial-during-covid-19) and feel relaxed in the world.

### **13. Chris, Engineer**
I've found the water I use to be rather hard and it dries out my skin much quicker than I expected, so I am going to try using a night cream to help soothe my face and keep it from drying out and cracking after cleansing. I would also be interested in trying a facial to see what it can do for my skin. Depending on how that goes, I would potentially try a chemical peel as well. The benefits seem quite rewarding, and I think it's worth it for the new year. 

### **14. Yan, Product Designer**
I’m adding some anti-aging and acne treatment products to my skincare routine. I've tried retinoids before, but it caused a little bit of purging with redness, peeling, and even more acne. Then I found that bakuchiol products — like the [Ole Henriksen Glow Cycle Retin-ALT Power Serum](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sephora.com%2Fproduct%2Fglow-cycle-retin-alt-power-serum-P434545) or [REN Clean Skincare Bio Retinoid Anti-Ageing Cream](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sephora.com%2Fproduct%2Fbio-retinoid-anti-ageing-cream-P380810) — can be good substitutes for retinoids. They’ve worked well so far, and I’ve also experienced less breakouts since I started to use them. I'm planning on adding the [REN Bio Retinoid Anti-Wrinkle Concentrate Oil](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sephora.com%2Fproduct%2Fbio-retinoid-anti-wrinkle-concentrate-oil-P311126), which is more hydrating than cream, to my 2021 routine, as my skin gets drier in winter.

### **15. Nikan, Computer Vision Engineer**
I’m not a big fan of supplements and am hardly able to stick to a regular plan! Per a friend’s suggestion, I used to take [these gummies](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.walgreens.com%2Fstore%2Fc%2Fvitafusion-gorgeous-hair%2C-skin-%2526-nails-multivitamin%2C-gummies-natural-raspberry-flavor%2FID%3Dprod6310367-product) to maintain healthy hair and skin. I could see the difference in a few weeks of taking them before losing track. I recently decided to use a plant-based [vitamin C](https://aedit.com/aedition/guide-to-topical-vitamin-c-in-skincare) serum, [TruSkin Vitamin C Serum](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Ftruskin.com%2Fproducts%2Fbest-vitamin-c-serum-for-face), a few times a week after getting out of the shower. This helps me have hydrated and fresher skin, and I’ll hopefully continue using it next year!

### **16. Alyssa, Lead Product Designer**
I've never been to a dermatologist before, and I think it's high time I do! I'm interested in exploring anti-aging options such as [Botox®](https://aedit.com/aedition/comparing-neurotoxin-botulinum-type-a-injections-botox-dysport-jeuveau-xeomin) or laser treatments as I look toward my thirties — once I [find the right provider](https://aedit.com/aedition/finding-the-right-plastic-surgeon-dermatologist-or-cosmetic-dentist) for me, of course.

### **17. Marie, Product Designer**
Next year, I would like to get a facial every few months. I also recently started taking vitamins for hair, skin, and nails — plus taking [collagen](https://aedit.com/aedition/guide-to-collagen-in-skincare-supplements-aesthetic-medicine) — so I will continue that through 2021. Hoping for great results!

### **18. Meg, Editorial Director**
In 2021, I am going to continue to get Botox® every four to six months. Not only does it smooth my horizontal forehead lines, soften my glebellars, and provide a [subtle brow lift](https://aedit.com/procedure/chemical-brow-lift), but it also relieves my tension headaches. I am turning 30 in January, and I anticipate my skin starting to change. To combat any early signs of laxity, I resolve to start using my [ZIIP Beauty](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.violetgrey.com%2Fproduct%2Fziip-device-with-80-ml-gel-bottle%2FZIP-Z003) microcurrent device more regularly — if not daily, then at least a couple times a week.

*All products featured are independently selected by our editors, however, AEDIT may receive a commission on items purchased through our links.*

From supplements to superficial chemical peels, check out the skincare habits #TeamAEDIT is planning to adopt and the cosmetic procedures they’d like to try in the New Year.

2021 Skincare And Cosmetic Procedures To Try

18 Skincare Resolutions The AEDIT Team Is Making For 2021

matheus-ferrero-TkrRvwxjb 8-unsplash

While it may not be as readily discussed as [Botox® or gynecomastia](https://aedit.com/aedition/top-surgical-non-surgical-cosmetic-procedures-for-men), the rise in men seeking cosmetic treatments extends below the belt. When it comes to getting surgery ‘down there,’ [scrotal lift surgery](https://aedit.com/procedure/scrotal-lift) (a.k.a. scrotoplasty), a procedure that removes excess scrotal tissue to leave the area tighter and more lifted, is increasingly popular. Aside from the aesthetic appeal, the procedure can also resolve functional concerns such as discomfort while exercising and during sex. Here, we answer the most common questions about scrotoplasty and speak to two patients who have undergone the procedure. 

## **What Is Scrotoplasty?**
A scrotoplasty, also known as scrotal lift surgery, is a procedure designed to reduce the size of and reposition the scrotum. Due to genetics, aging, or trauma, the scrotum can become elongated. An elongated scrotum can impact both aesthetics and function. 

Depending on the patient, the surgery, which is generally performed under local anesthesia on an outpatient basis, may involve removing excess tissue, tightening the cremaster muscle, and/or tissue grafting for structural support. There is usually minimal scarring, and it will fade with time. 

### **Candidates for Scrotoplasty**
Men who are experiencing a loss in elasticity in their scrotal tissue that is leading to discomfort, pain, or loss of confidence may all be candidates for the procedure. Not all men will experience this pain or discomfort as they age. It’s thought that both genetics and lifestyle play a role in determining whether or not an elongated scrotum will develop. 

The procedure can also be prescribed for men who have certain medical conditions. Varicocele, for example, causes blood to pool in the testicles, which, in turn, leads to sagging. The combination of stretched scrotal tissue and a short spermatic cord can cause painful ejaculation. For those with these types of medical concerns, a urologist may need to provide treatment before plastic surgery is an option. 

### **Scrotoplasty Recovery & Results** 
You will generally be advised to rest up for three days following a scrotal lift. Pain and swelling are common, but it should be mild and manageable with the medication. During the initial downtime, physical activity should be limited. Some swelling may persist for about three months post-op. Around this time, you should be able to see the final results of the surgery. Any scarring will continue to fade for about a year. 

The results of a scrotal lift are permanent, though the natural aging process will continue. As long as aftercare instructions are followed carefully, there should be no need for revision surgery.

## **Patient Perspective**
Like many penile enhancement and genital rejuvenation procedures, scrotoplasty is gaining popularity for men seeking both functional and aesthetic benefits. We spoke to two patients about their experience with the procedure. Their names have been changed.

### **Jon, New York City**
*Jon opted for scrotal lift surgery after a medical condition led to his scrotum losing elasticity at a young age.*

<Dialogue>
  <Question party={The AEDITION}>
    How was your scrotal lift surgery?
  </Question>
  <Response party={Jon}>
    The main thing I would like to flag to anyone reading this and considering having the procedure is that it doesn’t hurt all that much. When my doctors first mentioned the prospect of potential scrotal surgery my first thought was: *This is really going to hurt.* The procedure is very quick. I believe my surgery took around an hour. I was sedated but did not have general anesthesia, and I went home as soon as the RN was okay with me leaving.
  </Response>
  <Question party={The AEDITION}>
    What did the recovery process entail?
  </Question>
  <Response party={Jon}>
    The first two days were uncomfortable. I was also sleepy. I just took it easy, kept putting ice packs on my crotch area that was sore, and took pain meds. After those first two days, it got a lot easier. I had occasional discomfort for a couple of weeks or so and then it settled down pretty much completely. I had the surgery six months ago, and I’m seeing the final result of it now. There is a small scar, but it’s not obvious.
  </Response>
  <Question party={The AEDITION}>
    Are you happy with the results?
  </Question>
  <Response party={Jon}>
    My expectations were somewhat different because I had the surgery as a result of another medical condition, not to simply change the appearance of my genitals. I’m really happy with the ‘functionality’ that has been restored. I’m in very little to no pain whatsoever now. Before the surgery, I would struggle with working out, sex was painful, and I was generally self-conscious of how I looked. It’s been a success when it comes to resolving those issues for me.
  </Response>
</Dialogue>

### **Sydney, Atlanta, GA**
*Sydney was undergoing a series of rejuvenation procedures as part of a birthday gift to himself when he turned 60. He chose a scrotal lift because he wasn’t happy with the appearance of the area as he aged.*

<Dialogue>
  <Question party={The AEDITION}>
    How was your scrotal lift surgery?
  </Question>
  <Response party={Sydney}>
    I had the procedure as part of a couple of others, so I had general anesthesia and stayed in the hospital for a couple of days afterward. I believe this isn’t necessary for everyone, particularly if you have it as a standalone surgery. I was generally in a fair bit of pain after the surgery, but I can’t remember that area particularly standing out. For me, the main piece of advice I would share is to be sure you have clear notes from the hospital with aftercare instructions and be clear on who will be there to help you with that.
  </Response>
  <Question party={The AEDITION}>
    What did the recovery process entail?
  </Question>
  <Response party={Sydney}>
    I was fortunate to have loved ones around to look after my wellbeing while I got back on my feet. There was general pain and discomfort but nothing too bad. The scar is small and healed quickly. It has now faded well.
  </Response>
  <Question party={The AEDITION}>
    Are you happy with the results?
  </Question>
  <Response party={Sydney}>
    I am. I had the procedure as part of a few other surgeries and the whole process has given me back confidence and made me feel much less depressed at the prospect of aging. My genital area does not look like I’m young again, but it’s now not part of my body that I’m ashamed of. I think that’s something people deserve at any age.
  </Response>
</Dialogue>

## **The Takeaway**
Whether it’s performed to restore function or to improve the aesthetic of the area, a scrotoplasty is a genital rejuvenation procedure that lifts and tightens the scrotum. Consulting with a board certified urologist or plastic surgeon will determine if you are a candidate for the surgery.

We're answering the most common questions about scrotoplasty and speak to two patients about their experience with the procedure. 

Scrotal Lift Surgery, Scrotoplasty To Correct An Elongated Scrotum

What It’s Really Like To Get A Scrotal Lift

shutterstock 743659255

One writer seeks to revive her ‘lackluster lashes’ with an array of at-home lengthening and volumizing options. From mascara to falsies, here’s her honest take.

How To Use False Lashes, Mascara, Lash Growth Serum For Thicker, Fuller Eyelashes

8 DIY Eyelash Techniques For Length And Volume

romina-farias-B5LZDN t fc-unsplash

Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition that is believed to impact two to three percent of the population. It causes patches of inflamed, red, and flaky skin on the face and body that tend to have a silvery appearance. These symptoms are caused by the overproduction of skin cells, and, for those who suffer from psoriatic arthritis, it can also lead to joint pain and stiffness. What causes someone to develop psoriasis remains somewhat of a mystery, and there is currently no cure. Treatments are highly personalized in nature and often require quite a bit of trial and error to determine what works best.

In honor of World Psoriasis Day, we spoke to New York City-based board certified dermatologist [Morgan Rabach, MD](https://lmmedicalnyc.com/dr-morgan-rabach/), and two psoriasis patients to better understand the skin condition and how to manage it.

## **What Is Psoriasis?**
Not to be confused with [eczema](https://aedit.com/aedition/best-skincare-products-to-treat-eczema-flare-ups-in-the-winter) or [rosacea](https://aedit.com/aedition/what-its-like-to-live-with-and-treat-rosacea), psoriasis is a chronic skin condition that causes patches of red, dry, flaky skin. It most commonly appears on the elbows, knees, lower back, and scalp, but the patches can show up anywhere on the body. No two psoriasis cases are the same, and the condition usually manifests in unpredictable cycles that alternate between periods of no (or minor) symptoms and more intense flare-ups. During these relapses, the patches of irritated skin can be large, itchy, burning, and even painful.

The severity of the condition varies by patient. For many, psoriasis patches are more of a cosmetic concern than anything else. But, for others, the discomfort and appearance of large areas of irritation can affect their quality of life — causing physical pain and discomfort.

## **Who Does Psoriasis Affect?**
According to the World Health Organization’s [2016 Global Report on Psoriasis](https://apps.who.int/iris/handle/10665/204417), the condition affects men and women equally. It is thought that some 100 million people worldwide have been diagnosed with the condition, and it would appear that it is gradually becoming more common.

There are slightly higher numbers of cases of recorded cases in Caucasian patients compared to other ethnicities, but this disparity may be due to differences in the number of people seeking treatment in different demographics. There are no clear factors that make one group more susceptible to the condition than others, though there is often a misconception that psoriasis is a contagious skin condition. Psoriasis is not contagious, and it is thought to be triggered by certain infections, genetics, and injuries to the skin.

## **What Causes Psoriasis Flare-Ups?**
Psoriasis flare-ups can be caused by a variety of triggers, Dr. Rabach says. She lists medications, stress, illness, changes in weather, alcohol consumption, and smoking as some potential culprits. There are no specific irritants (such as ingredients in foods, cosmetics, or detergents) that are known to trigger psoriasis relapses. As a result, treatment plans for patients with psoriasis may include lifestyle changes that help manage and prevent future relapses. Dr. Rabach advises that people eat a [well-balanced diet](https://aedit.com/aedition/best-diet-for-healthy-beautiful-skin), [maintain a healthy body weight](https://aedit.com/aedition/best-fitness-classes-workouts-exercises-to-try-at-home), and [destress](https://aedit.com/aedition/impact-of-stress-on-skin-acne-wrinkles-dryness) whenever possible to stay on top of symptoms. 

### **The Relationship Between Psoriasis & Arthritis**
Around a third of people who have psoriasis will develop psoriatic arthritis. The condition can develop up to 10 years after a person first experiences skin complaints linked to psoriasis, and experts believe it happens because the immune system begins to attack healthy tissue by mistake. Not everyone who has dermatological symptoms will go on to develop arthritis, but it’s not clear why some people do while others don’t.

To treat psoriatic arthritis, patients are advised to first consult with their primary care physician before being referred to an internist or rheumatologist to manage the condition moving forward. Treatment usually includes the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen and disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs), which can be particularly effective when taken early on in the degenerative process.  

## **How Is Psoriasis Treated?**
Courses of treatment for psoriasis often involve a combination of topical creams, [light therapy](https://aedit.com/aedition/everything-you-need-to-know-about-the-benefits-of-light-therapy), and lifestyle modifications. “The standard of care for patients with psoriasis are topicals consisting of different strengths of steroids and vitamin D cream,” Dr. Rabach explains. “Depending on how much of the body’s surface area is affected, we use light therapy — usually narrowband UVB.” For smaller areas, she uses an excimer laser. 

There is more recent research into whether biological medications, which alter the immune system, can help treat psoriasis, but Dr. Rabach cautions that there is a lack of long-term data to support such options.

## **Patient Perspective**
We spoke to two people who have different experiences of living with psoriasis. Joey is managing an increasing number of relapses, while Sue is experiencing the onset of psoriatic arthritis. 

### **Joey, 32, New York City**
*Joey was diagnosed with psoriasis three years ago. Her first flare-up occurred during a stressful period when she was completing her PhD. Relapses have become increasingly frequent, but she is able to keep symptoms under control working closely with a dermatologist.*

<Dialogue>
  <Question party={The AEDITION}>
    What does psoriasis look like for you?
  </Question>
  <Response party={Joey}>
    My psoriasis symptoms are mostly patchy red rashes that tend to be pretty flakey and sore. I usually get them on my hands, forearms, and back. The ones on my knuckles, in particular, get very painful. It’s something I have lived with for a little while now, so I can spot the very first signs that a relapse is on its way. Because we still haven’t found a treatment that works well for me, I have to see my dermatologist regularly. It also has an impact on me emotionally. It’s a condition that’s not really severe enough for me to consider myself ‘ill,’ but I don’t feel like a completely healthy 30-something anymore, which can be tough at times.
  </Response>
  <Question party={The AEDITION}>
    What treatments have you tried?
  </Question>
  <Response party={Joey}>
    So far, we’ve managed to find some creams that make me more comfortable, but they do not seem to shorten the length of time my flare-ups last. Each time I have a flare-up, we decide whether to stick with what kept me comfortable last time or if we should try something new. It’s quite experimental, but I’m pleased I’m able to manage the discomfort now. On the other hand, the fact that my particular case affects my hands and forearms means that I am self-conscious a lot of the time. It’s something I am working on with a therapist as well as with my dermatologist to approach things from both perspectives.
  </Response>
  <Question party={The AEDITION}>
    How does psoriasis impact your daily life?
  </Question>
  <Response party={Joey}>
    Initially, the impact showed through in my confidence levels. I went from wearing sleeveless tops and dresses to wanting to wear long sleeves all the time. I would dread hot summer days when I’d have to show my skin. These days, it means I spend a lot of time taking care of myself. I have overhauled my diet to eat clean and unprocessed foods. I practice yoga and meditation to manage stress. It isn’t always easy, but I’m finding it easier the longer I live with it. It’s like anything: It’s a shock and quite strenuous to begin with, but, over time, you adapt.
  </Response>
</Dialogue>

### **Sue, 45, Denver, CO**
*Sue was dealing with dermatological symptoms of psoriasis for close to a decade before she began experiencing joint pain. She received a diagnosis of psoriatic arthritis after a series of tests and has been adapting her lifestyle and adjusting medication ever since.*

<Dialogue>
  <Question party={The AEDITION}>
    What does psoriasis look like for you?
  </Question>
  <Response party={Sue}>
    Psoriasis has been a part of my life for quite some time, and it’s something I knew I may be at risk of developing because I have a family history of the condition. In the beginning, it was mostly just a few flakey patches of skin from time to time. Gradually, it developed into a more significant problem for me, with the patches getting larger during flare-ups. More recently, joint pain is something I have to live with.
  </Response>
  <Question party={The AEDITION}>
    What treatments have you tried?
  </Question>
  <Response party={Sue}>
    The treatment is two-fold. I see a dermatologist who has found great solutions for the dermatological side of the issue. I have light therapy and also apply a couple of steroid creams that appear to work very well. The joint pain is managed with some relatively mild anti-inflammatory drugs for now, but I have a treatment plan set out in case things get worse.
  </Response>
  <Question party={The AEDITION}>
    How does psoriasis impact your daily life?
  </Question>
  <Response party={Sue}>
    It’s quite a variable thing. I can be fine on some days and in a lot of pain on others. That’s probably the most difficult aspect — not knowing when I’m going to feel alright or not. I have already adapted my lifestyle significantly to prepare for the bad days to become more frequent. I now work for myself so I can set my own pace. When I recently moved, I opted for a single-story house as opposed to one with stairs. On good days, there is no difference between my abilities and anyone else’s, but it’s something that is there in the background that I have to be aware of.
  </Response>
</Dialogue> 

## **The Takeaway**
Like so many skin conditions, living with and treating psoriasis is a very personal experience. Some patients only experience mild dermatological symptoms, while others have more severe flare ups and develop psoriatic arthritis. If you think you might be experiencing skin concerns related to psoriasis, it is important to consult with a board certified dermatologist to create the best treatment plan for your needs.

In honor of World Psoriasis Day, The AEDITION speaks with a board certified dermatologist and patients about their experiences living with and treating the chronic skin condition.

How To Treat And Manage Psoriasis

What It’s Really Like To Live With And Treat Psoriasis

shutterstock 1753885364

A few months ago, I finally took the plunge and decided to get braces again. Yes, *again*. I had ‘train track’ (i.e. metal) braces when I was a teen, but they were removed early because I needed them off for scheduled surgery. Because I didn’t finish the protocol, I ended up with a gap between my front teeth. To make matters worse, I left my retainer on a seat in a Parisian departures lounge, and, despite my desperate emails to the lost and found department, my retainer (along with a makeup bag full of brand new [French pharmacy skincare](https://aedit.com/aedition/best-french-pharmacy-skincare-hair-care-products)!) was lost forever. 

After that episode, I never got around to getting a new retainer, and my teeth began to relapse into their pre-brace positions. Earlier this year, I decided to sort out my teeth nightmare once and for all with the help of [Invisalign®](https://aedit.com/procedure/invisalign). For the uninitiated, the system is an alternative to [traditional fixed braces](https://aedit.com/procedure/traditional-metal-braces) and is made up of a series of clear, removable aligners that gradually work to realign teeth. 

I’m now a few months into wearing the trays, and my experience has been largely positive so far. I have, however, learned a few things that would have been useful to know from the get go. Here are the things I wish I’d known before I started Invisalign®:

### **1. You May Not Need Molds**
Getting molds taken for my braces the first time around is one of the main things that put me off getting braces again. But, thankfully, my orthodontist now uses 3D scanning technology instead of molds, so you may not need to go through it at all. It should be noted that some practitioners still do use classic molds. If that’s a particular sticking point for you, it’s worth finding a practice that uses alternative methods.

### **2. The Discomfort Is Different Than Fixed Brace**
When I put my first tray in, the overwhelming sensation was tightness as opposed to pain or aching. I can distinctly remember my first few days with braces as a teenager being tinged with a constant ache — one that was only made worse when trying to eat. With Invisalign®, there wasn’t any pain at all. Instead, the tightness lasted a few hours, and I was able to eat as usual after taking the trays out. My teeth are a little sensitive when I take a new set of trays on and off, but it’s not enough to make me rethink what I’m planning to eat. Unlike traditional braces that would ache, prevent me from eating normally, and stab me in the cheek regularly, Invisalign® is a walk in the park.

### **3. If There Is Any Tightness, It Doesn’t Last Long** 
When changing trays, the tightening sensation usually lasts half a day at most. I was told by friends who had Invisalign® in the past to change my trays [before bed](https://aedit.com/aedition/sleeping-better-after-cosmetic-surgery-aesthetic-procedures), so you sleep through the worst of the tightness, and that’s a piece of advice that has been super helpful to me.  

### **4. Attachments May Be Needed**
Little ceramic ‘buttons’ are placed on teeth to add extra pressure points for your orthodontist to be able to move your teeth in the right direction as needed. The attachments stay in place throughout the period of your treatment. Once you get used to them, they’re barely noticeable, but they did feel a bit strange for the first week or so.

### **5. Your Mouth Can Get Really Dry...** 
...Or you might have a lot more saliva than usual. This is particularly the case during the first few days, but I do still find it’s an issue on occasion. It’s not a huge problem to have to deal with, but [dry mouth](https://aedit.com/aedition/treat-prevent-mask-mouth-bad-breath-tooth-decay) did make working out with my aligners a bit uncomfortable for the first week.

### **6. It’s a Commitment**
I’d forgotten how much of a commitment having braces was, and Invisalign® somehow feels more time consuming than fixed braces. Some days, I feel like all I’m doing is brushing my teeth (it’s usually around four to six times a day). Add in the visits to the dentist and hygienist and it does take up a decent chunk of time. At this stage of my life, I can accommodate it, but it’s something that needs to be considered if you have a hectic lifestyle or travel often. 

### **7. You’ll Become Really Aware of Your Coffee Intake** 
As you may know, you’re only supposed to drink water and clear liquid with your trays in. This doesn’t always mix well with a coffee habit. That being said, having Invisalign® is absolutely helping with cutting my caffeine intake. I’m snacking less, too, which is a welcome bonus — especially while working from home.

### **8. The Lisp Is Real** 
I read somewhere before deciding to go ahead that the system should actually be called *Invithalign* because the lisp is so bad when you first start out. They kind of had a point. The lisp is something I dealt with for about a month, it was particularly noticeable when I got tired. It didn’t necessarily interfere with my daily life, but I did have a couple of important phone calls during that I took them out for. In my case, it was really about adapting to the braces, and, after a while, the lisp pretty much disappeared.

### **9. Discipline May Be Fleeting**
Invisalign® takes more discipline than fixed braces. I thought I’d have no trouble keeping my trays in for 22 hours a day. But, a couple of weeks in, there I was leaving them out after eating breakfast because it wouldn’t be long before I had another coffee or taking them out in the evening because I was tired of trying not to have a lisp. Whenever I was particularly frustrated, I took a look at my predicted results and got back on track. 

### **10. The Attachments Can Get Stained**
Remember those little ceramic buttons I mentioned? They can get discolored by things such as — you guessed it — coffee, red wine, and other foods and drinks that are known to stain the enamel on your teeth. This means that, if you aren’t careful, the invisible effect of Invisalign® could be reduced because the ceramic gets stained. Cutting out the stain-inducing food and drink is the best solution. But, if you must drink coffee or wine, do so through a straw (with your aligners out, of course).

### **11. My Lips Look Fuller**
I’ve been putting off getting [lip fillers](https://aedit.com/procedure/temporary-lip-fillers) for years because I hate needles, but my lips look nice and plump when I’m wearing my clear aligners. I like them so much that, when I’m finished with Invisalign®, I will finally take the plunge and get my lips done. For now, though, it’s a nice bonus to have a fuller pout, even if they’re hidden under a mask most of the time!

### **12. Long Nails Are A Burden**
Getting the trays in and out can be tricky, especially when you switch to a new set. I found having [long nails](https://aedit.com/aedition/how-to-treat-damaged-dry-brittle-finger-nails-cuticles) made it even more difficult to maneuver. There are little plastic hooks you can buy to help with that, but I decided to keep my nails short for the next few months. I also found that regular nail polish gets chipped easily when you’re removing trays, so gel polish has become my go-to.

### **13. Lipstick Can Be Annoying**
Lipstick wearers be warned, Invisalign® and bold lipstick don’t mix too well. Matte formulas tend to wear okay, but others make my mouth look like a crime scene. There are, however, tons of blog posts on the topic with lists of [battle-tested lipsticks](https://aedit.com/aedition/how-to-apply-lipstick) that are compatible with clear aligners. This being said, lip gloss is having a moment so you may just want to give that trend a try.

### **14. Your Teeth Feel Tiny When Your Trays Are Out**
It doesn’t take long to get used to having the Invisalign® trays in. In fact, when I don’t have them in, my teeth feel really small by comparison. For those of you who have had fixed braces in the past, it’s a similar feeling to that first day after you get your braces removed. Your teeth feel quite far back in your mouth. 

### **15. Results Come Quick**
I don’t remember noticing results very quickly with metal braces. I wore them for around three years and only started to see cosmetic improvements at the end of my treatment plan. This time around, I’m already seeing results. The gap between my front teeth is closing up and my bottom teeth are better aligned, too. Seeing those results makes the minor inconveniences all the more worthwhile.

After an unsatisfactory experience with metal braces in her teen years, one writer decided to give clear aligners a try. Here’s what she wishes she knew before starting her treatment.

Invisalign And Clear Aligners: What To Know Before Starting Treatment

15 Things I Wish I Knew Before Getting Invisalign

shutterstock 244228729

When invited into the Sperling Dermatology’s new [Sperling Spectacular Spa](https://www.sperlingdermatology.com/body/) in Red Bank, NJ, I jumped at the chance to check it out, meet the staff, and try a non-invasive treatment. As a beauty editor who focuses on skincare and aesthetics, this place can easily become my new home ‘office.’ I met with board certified physician assistant [Christinna Del Genio, MS, PA-C](https://www.sperlingdermatology.com/about/about-office-staff/), who gave me a tour space before recommending I try [InMode’s Evoke](https://inmodemd.com/workstation/evoke/), one of their newest treatment offerings. The device uses radiofrequency (RF) heat technology to stimulate collagen and lift and tighten the skin around the cheeks, jawline, and jowls.  

Once I saw the before and after pictures, I was sold. The Evoke “workspace” comes with two offerings — Evoke Face and Evoke Neck. Both applicators are hands-free and employ RF energy to reshape facial tissue, but the former is specifically designed to treat [cheeks and jowls](https://aedit.com/aedition/cosmetic-procedures-to-define-cheekbones) while the latter addresses the [neck and submental areas](https://aedit.com/aedition/8-ways-to-get-a-younger-looking-neck). We decided to focus on my [jawline](https://aedit.com/aedition/8-ways-to-get-a-more-defined-jawline) since I’d love for that skin to be a bit tighter (I’m in my late thirties, after all), and I wasn’t a candidate for the neck portion. As Del Genio and her team set me up in a comfy chair for my first 30-minute treatment, I began taking notes and interviewing her about the technology.  

## **Evoke Technology**
“The goal of radiofrequency skin remodeling is to heat collagen at deep and superficial levels to 40 to 43 degrees Celsius,” Del Genio explains. “In doing so, the formation of new collagen begins and the skin tightening effect takes place.” Unlike other tightening devices that promise similar benefits, Evoke is hands-free and contains temperature monitoring and control. As a result, it has the ability to deliver uniform, controlled heat energy without being dependent on the technician. If the skin reaches a threshold level the radiofrequency energy, it’s temporarily suspended to protect the skin from discomfort and possible burn. Other devices have a hand-held applicator, which requires the person giving the treatment to continually move it around at a fast speed to prevent that from happening.  

### **Evoke Treatment & Protocol**
Thirty minutes flew by, and, as promised, it didn’t hurt at all. It was as if I was wearing warm Bose headphones that were positioned tightly on my cheeks. After each treatment my face *felt* tighter. I didn’t even have to touch it to feel the difference. I saw results after my first treatment, but I followed the protocol and continued to do a series of four sessions spaced about one week apart for the best results. While I noticed incremental changes throughout, final results will be visible eight weeks after my fourth treatment. Skin tightening results are supposed to last one year, with one yearly maintenance session encouraged thereafter.  

<CaptionImg url={https://images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/4fmqyCx0dCYvafTtH93Is2/94bbaef19d6a6dd816c74d86180c2756/evoke-b_as-oct-15-800x300.png}>
  The writer's jawline before Evoke (left), immediately after her first treatment (middle), and immediately after her fourth treatment (right). The red marks on her cheeks are from the device and faded quickly. Her final result will be visible eight weeks after her last session.
</CaptionImg>

### **The Ideal Candidate for Evoke**
Anyone who experiences skin laxity in the lower face and neck can benefit from Evoke, but the treatment isn’t for everyone. Skip it if you…

- Have a pacemaker or defibrillator
- Have a history of cancer
- Are [pregnant or nursing](https://aedit.com/aedition/safety-of-cosmetic-procedures-during-pregnancy-breastfeeding)
- Have cardiac disorders, sensory disturbances, epilepsy, uncontrolled hypertension, and liver or kidney disease
- Have an impaired immune system due to AIDS or HIV

### **The Cost of Evoke**
I feel very fortunate that I have the opportunity to try these treatments for work at no cost because they are pricey. A series of four in one area (jawline or neck) will run you about $2,000. If you want to treat both areas, a series costs about $3,000. Pricing depends on the practitioner and where you get it done, but these prices are average.  

## **The Takeaway**
The lift is real! I am beyond impressed with my results week after week and am excited to have a more sculpted jawline — I never had one before! I’m anxious to see my full results eight weeks from now and am optimistically curious as to whether this is really going to last 12 months like it claims. Time will tell.

Skeptical but excited to try Evoke, one writer can honestly say her jawline has never been tighter.

Evoke Radiofrequency For Jawline And Neck Skin Tightening

This Skin Tightening Device Really Firmed My Jawline

eli-defaria-vCzh1jOyre8-unsplash

For many, orthodontic treatments that shift the teeth are enough to correct our bite. But, when orthodontia isn’t enough, corrective jaw surgery may be required. Formally known as [orthognathic surgery](https://aedit.com/procedure/orthognathic-surgery), the procedure is used to correct pronounced underbites and overbites and improve facial symmetry. “Orthognathic surgery is necessary when the teeth and jaws do not align properly,” explains [Douglas Monasebian, MD, DMD](https://aedit.com/provider/douglas-monasebian-md-200), a New York City-based board certified plastic and maxillofacial surgeon and assistant professor at the Mount Sinai School of Medicine. “Very often, when this surgery is performed, the facial features will also come more into harmony adding to a more aesthetic appearance.”

Here, we break down everything you need to know about the surgery and talk to patients about their experience. 

## **What Does Jaw Surgery Involve?**
Jaw surgery is often part of a larger treatment plan that includes fixed-bracket braces, wisdom teeth removal, and more to correct an underbite or overbite. Surgery tends to be part of that teeth alignment process. “Orthodontic treatment (braces) is performed both before and after the surgery,” Dr. Monasebian says. “The length of time in braces can be between one to two years, with the surgery occurring usually at the halfway point.”

Depending on the patient's needs, orthognathic surgery can be performed on the upper jaw (maxilla), the lower jaw (mandible), or both. “The surgeries may be performed together or separately,” he explains. “The decision for this is determined by both the surgeon and the orthodontist. The evaluation includes clinical photographs, x-rays, and dental models.”

Needless to say, there are surgical and anatomic differences between upper (maxillary) and lower (mandibular) jaw surgery, but both procedures are, as Dr. Monasebian shares, “quite involved” (think: four to six hours of operating) and performed under general anesthesia in the hospital. Another similarity? “All incisions are placed inside the mouth, so, after the swelling resolves, there is no visible scarring on the face,” he says.

During the surgery, the surgeon will cut into the bone and realign the bone, teeth, and soft tissue into their correct position. The bone is fixed in place using a combination of metal plates and screws, which are usually permanent. The screws should fuse into your jaw bone over time. In some cases, bone may be collected from another part of your body (i.e. the hips or ribs) to aid in that fusion process or to alter the shape of the jaw bone. In this case, patients have a small incision where that bone tissue is collected.

## **Recovering From Jaw Surgery**
Today, jaws are stabilized with small metal plates and screws, which means they do not have to be wired together for six weeks like they used to be. But recovery from jaw surgery still takes time, with patients generally needing to take several weeks off of work or school. While patients usually return home the day after surgery, it is recommended that they have a caretaker for the first couple of weeks. Pain, swelling, and discomfort are common — especially in the first seven to 10 days — and are treated with pain medication and antibiotics. 

Patients receive specific post-operative instructions that encompass the first couple of months  after surgery. They will vary depending on the provider and procedure, but your surgeon should provide specific information on what you can and can’t eat, oral hygiene, when to resume regular activity levels, and when to return to work or school.

“The surgical results are immediate in that the jaws are placed in their new and correct position at the time of surgery,” Dr. Monasebian says. “The final surgical result will become apparent when all the swelling resolves, which is mostly gone after several weeks.” The bones heal in approximately six weeks, at which point braces are applied. “There will be another year or more of braces to have the teeth align,” he adds.

## **Patient Perspective**
Recovery from jaw surgery takes time, but knowing what to expect can make the process much more manageable. We asked two patients to share their experience healing from orthognathic surgery.

### **Noah, 27, Chicago**
*Noah had jaw surgery to correct an underbite and improve his side profile. He spoke to us about what it’s  like to have the procedure and shared some of his tips to make recovery more comfortable.*

<Dialogue>
  <Question party={The AEDITION}>
    What was the first week after surgery like?
  </Question>
  <Response party={Noah}>
    The first day after surgery, I was pretty out of it. My brother drove me home and made sure I was comfortable. My mom brushed my teeth for me and made sure I’d taken the medication and eaten as scheduled. The following two days were intense. It’s pretty unpleasant being in pain and not being able to open your mouth or breathe properly through your nose because of all the swelling, but it really was only like that for around four days at the most. Once I’d made it through that point, things got a little better each day.
  </Response>
  <Question party={The AEDITION}>
    How did the recovery process compare to your expectations?
  </Question>
  <Response party={Noah}>
    I’d done a whole lot of research beforehand, and the one thing that I hadn’t truly realized is that everyone’s recovery is different. It was similar to many of the experiences I had read about before the surgery, but it was not the same as any of them. I used a lot of the tips that I’d learned from other people, and they were absolutely valuable (definitely buy yourself a cat toothbrush, they’re smaller than regular toothbrushes and so much easier to use right after surgery!), but I do wish I hadn’t created such a fixed timeline in my mind from what I’d seen online. It’s difficult to cut yourself some slack and rest when you think that you should be able to do such and such a task by whichever day post-surgery it is.
  </Response>
  <Question party={The AEDITION}>
    Are you pleased with the results of the procedure?
  </Question>
  <Response party={Noah}>
    I am. During the first two weeks after surgery, I wondered if the results could possibly be worth all the pain and swelling, but they totally were. I was fortunate that surgery was pretty much the last step in my treatment plan after long years of braces and wisdom teeth being removed, so it’s been amazing to finally get to see my face in the shape my doctors had planned for me all along. The shift in my confidence has shocked me. Pre-COVID, I had found myself having a better social life than I’d ever had before because I’m so much more confident in how I look.
  </Response>
</Dialogue>

### **Jeanie, 30, Los Angeles**
*Jeanie chose to undergo jaw surgery to change the look of her side profile, which was affected by a severe underbite. She had the surgery two years ago after undergoing orthodontic treatment for a year beforehand.*

<Dialogue>
  <Question party={The AEDITION}>
    Do you have any tips on how to prepare for recovery from jaw surgery?
  </Question>
  <Response party={Jeanie}>
    First and foremost, get yourself a good network of people to help look after you in the first week after the procedure and to just be there when needed for the weeks following that. I would also advise printing out your recovery ‘schedule’ (i.e. when you should be starting to eat soft foods, do more activity, etc.), so you and the people taking care of you know what’s what. Having a pill organizer with days of the week and times was very useful to help me to keep track of when I had taken my painkillers also.
  </Response>
  <Question party={The AEDITION}>
    Did you buy anything to make recovery more comfortable?
  </Question>
  <Response party={Jeanie}>
    I got this laptop desk that sat on my bed so I could watch Netflix without having to move, it was amazing (I may or may not still use it now!). I also got some nice new pillows and some cozy bedding, which I really appreciated — especially in those first few days. My surgeon also advised me that those squeezy sauce bottles are good to help you eat liquids, and they were useful too.
  </Response>
  <Question party={The AEDITION}>
    What advice do you have for people considering jaw surgery?
  </Question>
  <Response party={Jeanie}>
    Get a good schedule set up for your recovery. Having ‘scheduled rest’ helped me so much. I know for sure I would have felt so bad about just laying around letting my body heal itself if it hadn’t been part of my care plan. Beyond that, it helped me to make sure I was getting enough fluids, taking all the drugs I needed to, keep on track with my eating. All those things just felt easier with them being planned out, instead of having to think about them on a daily basis.
  </Response>
</Dialogue>

## **The Takeaway**
Performed by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon (OMS) or plastic and reconstructive surgeon, orthognathic surgery can be a life-changing procedure to align the mouth, optimize facial proportion, and improve quality of life.


When orthodontia isn’t enough to correct bite and jaw concerns, orthognathic surgery may be needed. Here’s what you need to know.

What It's Like To Get And Recover From Jaw Surgery For Underbite, Overbite

What It’s Really Like To Get Jaw Surgery

mariya-georgieva-0O6Fv3Ff XI-unsplash

[Platelet-rich plasma (PRP)](https://aedit.com/aedition/prp-and-stem-cells-are-changing-the-face-of-the-cosmetics-industry) is a buzzword in the beauty and aesthetics industries these days, with its restorative and regenerative properties being used to treat everything from [hair loss](https://aedit.com/procedure/plateletrich-plasma-prp-for-hair-loss) and [fine lines and wrinkles](https://aedit.com/procedure/microneedling-with-prp) to muscle and joint injuries. One of the more discreet uses for PRP? The so-called P-Shot, which involves injecting PRP into the penis to improve function for patients with or without erectile dysfunction (ED).

## **What Is P-Shot?**
The P-Shot is an injection of platelet-rich plasma into the penis. “P-Shot works for stimulation, vitality, and making people have harder erections,” says [Jason Emer, MD](https://aedit.com/provider/jason-emer-md-722), a board certified cosmetic dermatologist in West Hollywood. “PRP is used for rejuvenation, for healing purposes, for stimulating growth factors that help in the repair process, for collagen production. You want the erectile tissue to be healthier — that’s why you are feeding it the PRP nutrients.”

While the P-Shot rose to fame as an experimental treatment for erectile dysfunction, Dr. Emer says it appeals to men in general. “The majority of my patients are younger and want to have a better sex life,” he explains. “Just like they work the muscles of their body, they want to work the penis by providing nutrients to it to keep it healthy.”

One of the most well known versions of the treatment is the [Priapus Shot®](https://priapusshot.com/), which was coined by Charles Runels, MD — the same doctor that popularized the [vampire facial](https://aedit.com/procedure/vampire-facelift) with Kim Kardashian and the [O-Shot](https://aedit.com/procedure/oshot) (i.e. PRP injections into the clitoris and vaginal walls). Although it’s an increasingly common treatment option, there remains a lack of research into the use of PRP for men’s sexual health.

## **How Does P-Shot Work?**
Like a PRP treatment used for other aesthetic and therapeutic treatments, the procedure involves taking a blood sample from the body (usually the arm or some other non-invasive locale) and putting it into a centrifuge to isolate the platelet-rich plasma. While the PRP solution can be applied topically, this treatment requires it be injected into the penile shaft.

When it comes time for the injections, Dr. Emer says the area is numbed for about 15 minutes with a topical anesthetic. The PRP is then injected into multiple areas of the penis, including the head and specific parts of the shaft. “There is very minimal pain,” he says. “They almost don’t feel it at all.” Since patients are already in the office, Dr. Emer will often recommend pairing P-Shot with [PRP for hair loss](https://aedit.com/aedition/what-its-like-to-get-prp-injections-for-male-hair-loss). If a patient is in for a laser treatment, he’ll use any leftover solution on the affected area. “I’ll do their P-Shot at the same time I’ll do a laser, and I’ll apply some of the PRP topically to help it heal,” he notes.

Side effects of P-Shot include bruising and swelling at the injection sites, which should subside in a few days. Dr. Emer recommends patients wait 24 hours before having sex or masturbating because of the swelling.

### **Best Candidates for P-Shot**
“I haven’t really seen anyone who is not a candidate,” Dr. Emer says of P-Shot, though it may need to be combined with other treatments to be effective. “If people have prostate issues, psychological erectile dysfunction, or other things that are not related to functional use of, it may be that the underlying cause needs to be treated more than the actual tissue,” he shares. 

## **P-Shot Treatment Plans**
At one point, PRP injections were performed as a solo procedure. Patients started with three treatments in a three-month span, before returning for every two to three months for maintenance. Today, P-Shot is rarely done alone. “Now we use [ACell®](https://www.acell.com/) to help stimulate more,” Dr. Emer says. “It makes the cells revive, whereas the PRP feeds them nutrients.” 

Combining P-Shot and shockwave therapy is another popular duo. Devices like [GAINSWave®](https://gainswave.com/) utilize vibratory stimulation to cause microtrauma to the penis that leads to increased blood flow and tissue viability in the area. “It’s mainly for people who have erectile dysfunction, true non-functioning problems,” Dr. Emer says. “Although, I do have guys that just love it.” Shockwave therapy usually involves six to eight weekly treatments, followed by once or twice a month maintenance. 

Other “down under” rejuvenation procedures at Dr. Emer’s practice include chemical peels to treat hyperpigmentation, [filler](https://aedit.com/procedure/penis-enlargement-dermal-fillers) and [fat injections](https://aedit.com/procedure/penis-enlargement-fat-transfer) to increase size, and Botox® to combat sweating and relax the muscles. “I created a peel called [Aerify](https://emeragecosmetics.com/products/aerify), which is being used right now by guys on their penis, their scrotum, their groin area, and their buttock and anus area for pigmentation and brightening,” he explains. “I am also seeing a lot of guys wanting filler and Botox® in this area.”

## **Patient Perspective**
*We spoke to one patient who underwent P-Shot and GAINSWave® as a treatment for ED, which he experienced as a side effect of another long-term medical condition. The procedures have had a big impact on his quality of life.*

<Dialogue>
  <Question party={The AEDITION}>
    How did you find out about the procedures?
  </Question>
  <Response party={John}>
    I spoke to my primary care physician about concerns I was having relating to ED. After being referred to a urologist, I ended up finding out about P-Shot initially. I did a whole bunch of research — it felt easier to ask Dr. Google embarrassing questions when I first began looking into treatment options. Once I figured out that it was something I definitely wanted to do, I found a registered practitioner who’d gone through the full training program, not only with regards to the actual procedure itself but also with the aftercare. He also knew about options regarding combining treatments. That’s when he explained the results achieved with a combination of P-Shot and GAINSWave® were promising for people with my symptoms. We agreed on a treatment plan and got started as soon as he had availability.
  </Response>
  <Question party={The AEDITION}>
    How did the results from the procedures compare to your expectations?
  </Question>
  <Response party={John}>
    To be honest, it was quite difficult to find out exactly what to expect by researching online. I got a clearer idea from my doctor who specializes in the two treatments. He explained to me which parts of my expectations, or hopes, were achievable and which would not be. We were able to increase both length and girth, which wasn’t my primary aim. I was more concerned about the loss of sensation. That improved so much too, which I was so relieved about. It’s life-altering. It sounds like an exaggeration, but it is.
  </Response>
  <Question party={The AEDITION}>
    Do you have any advice for other men who are considering the procedures?
  </Question>
  <Response party={John}>
    Don’t be ashamed of needing to seek help. It’s extremely common — way more so than I ever imagined. Don’t be afraid of talking to doctors about it. You can use the language you want to, if you don’t want to be very direct or if it makes you uncomfortable. They’ll understand. I would also strongly recommend finding a doctor who is informed not only about the procedure, but also about the aftercare. P-Shot comes with a whole set of aftercare recommendations that are super important, so make sure your doctor works with that and you have a good understanding of what is involved.
  </Response>
</Dialogue>

## **The Takeaway**
Performed alone or in tandem with procedures, P-Shot can improve penile function for those with erectile dysfunction or those simply looking to improve their sexual health. Due to a lack of research into the experimental therapies, consulting with a board certified provider who has experience treating the genital area is of the utmost importance.

*Patient name has been changed

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is a buzzword in the beauty and aesthetics industries these days. One of the more discreet uses for PRP? Injecting it into the penis to improve function.

P-Shot PRP Penis Injections For Erectile Dysfunction And Men's Sexual Health

What It’s Really Like To Get P-Shot

shutterstock 1401887156

At this point, you’re likely familiar with the idea of dermal fillers. Not to be confused with [neurotoxins like Botox®](https://aedit.com/aedition/comparing-neurotoxin-botulinum-type-a-injections-botox-dysport-jeuveau-xeomin) that temporarily reduce the appearance of lines and wrinkles by paralyzing the muscle responsible for movement, fillers are used to contour the face by restoring volume to areas that show signs of aging or reshaping certain features (think: nose and lips). 

Depending on the type of filler used, touch ups may be needed as frequently as every six months. For patients seeking a longer lasting solution that doesn’t involve a foreign substance, fat grafting offers similar facial rejuvenation without the risk of rejection.

So, what are the pros and cons of each procedure? And which one might be best for you? A board certified dermatologist and two patients weigh in on how dermal fillers and facial fat grafting work.

## **What Are Dermal Fillers?**
[Dermal fillers](https://aedit.com/aedition/everything-you-need-to-know-about-dermal-fillers) or ‘fillers’ as they’re commonly known, are substances that are injected into the skin to restore volume or reshape a particular area. “Fillers require no surgical procedures, and you can just come in and do the injection,” says [Samer Jaber, MD](https://aedit.com/provider/samer-jaber-md-3882), a board certified dermatologist in New York City. “Most fillers can be dissolved. So, if you don't like the results or have an unusual reaction, it can be removed.”

Made of hyaluronic acid (HA), calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA), and poly-l-lactic acid (PLLA) to name a few, fillers have varying degrees of permanence. While HA fillers like Juvederm® and Restylane® need to be touched up every six to 12 months, semi-permanent options like Sculptra® (a PLLA filler) Radiesse® (a CaHA alternative) can deliver results for upwards of two years or more.  

### **What Are Fillers Used For?**
Fillers are used to rejuvenate areas of the face that have lost volume due to the natural aging process. Commonly used to [plump the lips](https://aedit.com/procedure/temporary-lip-fillers), volumize the cheeks, and minimize the appearance of [under eye bags](https://aedit.com/procedure/under-eye-filler), filler can also be used to alter refine the shape of the nose (a.k.a. [liquid rhinoplasty](https://aedit.com/aedition/what-you-need-to-know-about-liquid-rhinoplasty)) and define the jawline. For patients with atrophic (read: depressed) scarring, a small amount of filler may be injected to smooth the skin. 

### **What Is the Procedure and Recovery Process?**
Downtime after fillers is minimal. Normal activity can be resumed immediately (though you may be told to refrain from working out for 24 hours). Patients are often able to schedule the procedure during their lunch break, but it should be noted that swelling and bruising at the injection site is possible and usually resolves over the course of five to seven days. Unlike neurotoxin injections that take a week or more to kick in, filler results are immediate. 

### **How Much Do Dermal Fillers Cost?**
The cost for fillers varies greatly depending on which product is used and how many units is required. Generally speaking, cost varies between $250 and $1,500 per syringe. 

## **What Is Facial Fat Grafting?**
Also known as lipoinjection and autologous fat transfer, [facial fat grafting](https://aedit.com/aedition/what-its-really-like-to-get-facial-fat-grafting) offers an alternative to dermal filler. Rather than having a forgeign substance injected into the face (like the ones described above), fat grafting involves the injection of a patient’s own fat cells to plump areas of the face that show signs of aging. As such, there is no risk of your body rejecting the graft. 

Unlike the immediacy of fillers, the final results of fat grafting can take three to six months to reveal themselves. This is the length of time it takes for the graft to become established in its new location. During that time, the body re-absorbs a percentage of the fat (30 to 50 percent) that was injected, which is why providers often ‘overfill’ the area to start. Once the process is over, the graft is permanent, though revision procedures may be considered down the line. 

### **What Is It Used For?**
Fat grafting is used for facial rejuvenation, including volumizing the cheeks, plumping the lips, filling in the under eye area, reshaping the nose, defining the jaw, and even [augmenting the breasts](https://aedit.com/aedition/hybrid-breast-augmentation-with-implants-fat-transfer). 

### **What Is the Procedure and Recovery Process?**
Lipoinjection is a two-part process. First, fat cells must be surgically harvested from one part of the body, so they can then be purified and then injected into the face. Fat is generally collected from the hips, thighs, or stomach. Both of these procedures can be carried out as outpatient surgery under local anesthesia (some providers and patients may prefer general anesthesia to control pain).

Bruising and swelling can be expected at both the donor *and* recipient sites, and advice on how to manage this will be explained during preoperative consultations. “Both [filler and fat grafting] have minimal pain and discomfort during the injection, which can be easily managed with topical numbing gel,” Dr. Jaber says. “You may be slightly more swollen for a few days with fat transfer, and both procedures can result in mild bruising.”

### **How Much Does Fat Grafting Cost?**
The average cost of a facial fat transfer is $5,000, though this varies depending on the area being treated.

## **Patient Perspective**
Here, two patients share their experience with facial fat grafting. In one case, the treatment replaced a high-maintenance filler habit. In the other, it delayed the need for a more invasive facelift.

### **Mila, 35, New York, NY**
*Mila started her facial contouring journey with HA-based Juvederm® fillers. As time went on, she decided she would like a longer term solution and opted for facial fat grafting about a year ago.*

<Dialogue>
  <Question party={The AEDITION}>
    How did your filler experience differ from fat grafting?
  </Question>
  <Response party={Mila}>
    I started getting fillers when I was 25, so I spent close to 10 years getting injections topped off every eight months or so. The procedure for getting fillers is very straightforward. I used to have them during my lunch hour at work! With fat grafting, the process is somewhat more involved. They have to collect the cells, which is a procedure in itself, and then inject them. The collection procedure was new to me, but it was straightforward and painless. I would say the fat injections were a little more painful than fillers, but still absolutely manageable.
  </Response>
  <Question party={The AEDITION}>
    How did you find the fat grafting process, from the procedure to recovery?
  </Question>
  <Response party={Mila}>
    Both parts of the procedure went very smoothly for me. I had local anesthesia for both parts. There was some discomfort, but I didn’t feel any pain whatsoever. In terms of recovery, I found that I felt quite tired for the first couple of days. It could have been stress from the lead up to the procedure or the actual surgery. I’m not sure. I had a fair amount of bruising but not too much pain. I followed my surgeon’s directions regarding pain management, and it worked very well for me.
  </Response>
  <Question party={The AEDITION}>
    In terms of results, how were they different for each treatment?
  </Question>
  <Response party={Mila}>
    I have found the results from the graft to be softer than the results achieved from fillers. It could simply be because I went to a different practitioner though. The main drawback for me was the length of time between the procedure and being able to see the final results. I had to wait a good few months for the area to completely settle, which is a contrast to quick-fix fillers.
  </Response>
</Dialogue>

### **Sonia, 43, Long Island, NY**
*Sonia opted for fat grafting after discussing rejuvenation options with a plastic surgeon. As she noticed her face beginning to lose volume as she aged, she thought it was time for a [facelift](https://aedit.com/aedition/popularity-of-facelift-cosmetic-surgery-for-aging-sagging-neck), but the injections have so far offered the results she was looking for.*

<Dialogue>
  <Question party={The AEDITION}>
    What led you to consider facial fat grafting?
  </Question>
  <Response party={Sonia}>
    I found myself becoming increasingly bothered when I looked at my face in the mirror. I was seeing deeper and deeper wrinkles, my skin had lost its youthful appearance, and I was generally looking for a do-over. My cheeks had previously been very plump and were a real trademark for me when I was younger. Not seeing them when I looked in the mirror anymore was pretty disheartening.
  </Response>
  <Question party={The AEDITION}>
    How did you find the experience of having the procedure?
  </Question>
  <Response party={Sonia}>
    I had initially been considering having a facelift, so, by comparison, this was a real walk in the park! Both parts of the procedure were straightforward, and I was taken care of very well by my surgeon and his team. I opted for local anesthesia, which allowed me to have a somewhat quicker recovery than I would have had with general anesthetic involved. The process is painless, and I can’t even say I was uncomfortable at any point. I was asked continuously if I was in any pain, so the team was very careful to take care of that.
  </Response>
  <Question party={The AEDITION}>
    Are you pleased with the results?
  </Question>
  <Response party={Sonia}>
    I really am. For me, it was the perfect solution for what I was looking for. It’s a treatment that will tide me over until I have a facelift when the time is right. The results make me look better than I could have imagined — better than I did in my younger days even! The fact that they will stay like this for some time is a relief and having my next procedure in mind for whenever I am no longer satisfied with the results from this one is very reassuring.
  </Response>
</Dialogue>

## **The Takeaway**
Dermal fillers and fat grafting both offer facial rejuvenation and contouring results in an injectable form. While filler provides an immediate result, it requires regular maintenance. Fat grafting is a slightly more involved procedure because it is a two-step process and results take three to six months to take effect. Once the graft becomes established, it is permanent (though touch ups may be needed down the line). Consulting with a board certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon will ensure you receive the best treatment for your aesthetic goals. 

Facial rejuvenation and contouring is possible with both dermal fillers and autologous fat transfer. So, which injectable solution is best for you?

Comparing Dermal Fillers And Fat Grafting For Facial Rejuvenation And Contouring

Dermal Fillers vs. Fat Grafting: What’s Best For You?

AEDITION expert perspective-min

Patient Perspective Collection | The AEDITION

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_Finding the right plastic surgeon is a lot like dating. You’ll likely have to consult with a few doctors — and maybe meet a frog or two along the way — before you find the best one for your cosmetic surgery._

_So, how do you know when you've found The One? There are a few important factors. For starters, he or she must be board certified by the [American Board of Plastic Surgery](https://www.abplasticsurgery.org/), must have attended an accredited medical school, and must perform all procedures in an accredited or state-licensed surgical facility and operating room. What makes them the right doctor for you beyond professional accreditation is a bit more subjective. In this series, we ask real patients to share their surgeon-selection stories to help guide — and safeguard — your own cosmetic surgeon search._

_The below interview has been edited for length and clarity._


## **Elizabeth, 52**


My two aesthetic plastic surgery experiences were at two extremes: the worst and the best.

The first time I had surgery was more than 12 years ago. I wanted my [nose reshaped](https://aedit.com/procedure/rhinoplasty-nose-job) and, during the consultation, was convinced by the doctor that I should also have a [chin implant](https://aedit.com/procedure/alloplastic-chin-implant) and some [liposuction](https://aedit.com/procedure/liposuction). The surgeon I chose was older — probably in his sixties at the time — and I figured he’d had lots of experience. He’d also appeared on _Oprah!_, which, in 2005, was a big deal. The first time I went to the surgeon's office, I took a friend from the beauty industry with me, and we were both impressed. Maybe less by him and more by his art-filled Upper East Side office and name-dropping, but I felt that if he’d had a successful practice for years, I’d be safe in his hands. Now, more than a decade later, I can see the red flags I missed.

### **The Immediate Warning Signs**

For starters, he smoked a cigar throughout our consultation. Seriously. He also talked at me the entire visit, bragging about his accomplishments and not really taking any time to get to know me or understand my concerns. He (successfully) upsold me on more surgery procedures — that chin implant and lipo — when I’d only come in about my nose. He never showed me his operating room, which was in the same building as his office. I also dismissed negative reviews I’d read online. At the time, chat rooms and community boards were relatively new and, while I did look at them, I didn't take them seriously. They were littered with negative comments about him, mostly referring to the fact that he had a terrible bedside manner. I should have paid closer attention. 

I could write a book about my negative plastic surgery story, but one detail sums up the experience: I woke up in the middle of my surgery to the doctor banging on my nose. That was emblematic of everything that followed. He botched my nose job, taking too much off the end and making my nostrils look over-exposed. He also left stitches inside my nose that caused an infection. He put in a chin implant that was too large and he overdid the liposuction, causing the skin in my stomach to permanently tighten and twist. In the end, he accepted no responsibility for anything and, while I did try to pursue legal action, my lawyer told me to save my money and put it toward reconstructive surgery. 

### **Second Time Around**

It was during the pursuit of corrective surgery for my nose that I found the [best surgeon](https://aedit.com/aedition/finding-the-right-plastic-surgeon-dermatologist-or-cosmetic-dentist). I first met him when I developed the infection in my nose. I’d been treated so poorly by the first doctor that, when the pain started, I didn’t trust him to take care of it. So, I searched online for the type of procedure I wanted and board certified plastic surgeons who had rave reviews when it came to nose jobs. I called the one whose name came up most often. I was desperate and scared. I explained my story to the nurse on the phone, which she communicated to him, and told me that even though he was done seeing patients for the day, he would wait at the office for me until I could get there. I was so thankful. He immediately put me on antibiotics and followed up with me until the infection was gone. 

He also helped outline the surgical procedures he thought would help me and explained that I would have to allow my nose to fully heal and wait a year before I could go under the knife again. In our follow-up meetings, he took the time to understand what I wanted and even asked me to draw a picture of what I wanted my nose to look like. He was an excellent communicator and clearly explained the kind of result I could realistically expect from these new plastic surgery procedures. He seemed to both understand what I wanted and be capable of creating it for me. I trusted his artistic skill as much as his medical acumen. I did wait a year until the second surgeon could do my corrective surgery. He restored my nose and removed the oversized chin implant. 

### **Lessons Learned**

I learned a lot during those two years of surgery and recovery. First, don’t dismiss what you read online. The negative reviews are good cautionary tales, but the positive ones are also important. People are more apt to pound out angry comments, but when someone takes the time to write about exemplary work, that’s just as telling. I also believe you should trust your gut. There were warning signs with the first doctor — the smoking, the over-talking, the disinterest in me — that made me wary, but I repressed that anxiety because of this doctor’s fancy office and television appearance. Always listen to your inner voice. Beware of any doctor who goes overboard telling you everything they think is "wrong" about you and all the additional cosmetic procedures they think you "need." If you go in for a nose job, that’s what you should be discussing. Finally, consider a surgeon with a specialty in the specific procedure you want. The second surgeon I chose is known for nose jobs — it’s what he does the most often. That turned out to be one of the most important things for me.

Finding the right plastic surgeon is a lot like dating. You’ll likely have to consult with a few doctors — and maybe meet a frog or two along the way — before you find the best one for your cosmetic surgery.

How I Found My Plastic Surgeon: Trust Your Gut

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When I started noticing some early signs of aging around my eyes, I didn’t dash to the doctor right away. I was a little apprehensive about cosmetic treatments, even non-surgical options. I had mixed feelings about modifying myself in the name of beauty. I wanted to still look like myself and not like I'd had "work done." I wondered if I was being vain or succumbing to some perceived pressure from society's standards. After a bit of soul searching, I realized that I’d been letting fear of possible judgment interfere with my own desires. As long as a treatment is safe, both physically and psychologically, I believe people are entitled to self-improvement in all forms, cosmetic procedures included.

Armed with self-confidence, I took the plunge. I did extensive research and met with a board certified plastic surgeon who treated my wrinkles with [Botox®️](https://aedit.com/procedure/botox-facial) and my volume loss with a hyaluronic acid-based filler. I was pleased with the results, but not with the idea of periodic upkeep. I eventually opted to undergo surgical fat grafting, a procedure designed to provide more permanent facial volume. I was excited to talk about the surgical procedure with my family and friends. After all, my trusted inner circle would be accepting of anything that made me happy, right?

Not so much. While a few of my friends were genuinely interested and supportive, some others, particularly people related to me, were not as enthusiastic. Most of them didn't say it outright, but their body language, skeptical tone, and relative silence said it all. They didn’t really approve, but they didn’t want to hurt my feelings by admitting it. 

While their judgment didn’t lead me to regret my choice, it did make me question being so vocal about it. Should I have kept my cosmetic procedures a secret? I’d made subtle changes, so presumably keeping it under wraps would have been a possibility, but it didn’t feel right to me. I wanted to share my experience, rather than keep it from my loved ones for fear of a negative reaction. Was there a way to educate people about my cosmetic surgery in a way that wouldn’t prompt pessimism? Where was that unfavorable reaction coming from? In search of answers, I sought out plastic surgery professionals and other patients to learn more. 

“Good plastic surgery is invisible,” says [Jason Roostaeian, MD](https://aedit.com/provider/jason-roostaeian-md-449), Associate Professor of Plastic Surgery at UCLA and board certified plastic surgeon. “My goal is always to produce a result that looks as though my patient might've been born with it. Of course, depending upon the area and the extent of what we change, patients may or may not be able to keep their surgery to themselves.” 

As cosmetic surgery procedures become less detectable, it surely impacts people's decisions to disclose them. “As technical advances allow for increasingly natural-looking results, patients are actually having to face that dilemma more and more frequently," says Dr. Roostaeian. "Fortunately, the popularity of plastic surgery procedures, combined with increased exposure via social media, continues to significantly reduce the stigma associated with aesthetic surgery.”

Understanding that our society is becoming more accepting of cosmetic surgery made me feel less self-conscious, but I was curious how other patients had navigated talking to family and friends about their procedures.

Dr. Sean Saadat, MD is a plastic surgery resident at UCLA who has had two [rhinoplasties](https://aedit.com/procedure/closed-rhinoplasty). The first was at age 19, followed by a revision which he chronicled on social media. Dr. Saadat told me that he didn’t initially disclose his desire to change his nose because he felt admitting his insecurities about his appearance would make his parents nervous. He also worried that he’d be judged as a male seeking cosmetic surgery, which is stereotypically for females. “When I did bring it up, I said I was having trouble breathing, and that when the surgeon suggested fixing the prominent hump on my nose at the same time, I just kinda went along with it," he says.

Dr. Saadat's family turned out to be supportive. “Once I’d made the decision, my family stood behind me," he says. "Having your nose done is quite common in Iranian culture. Many women in my family had undergone rhinoplasties, so I felt like I was surrounded by a rhinoplasty support group.” He wasn’t so confident about his friends, however, so he lied and said he was having his wisdom teeth removed. “In my first couple of days post-operation, with my splint intact and eyes still bruised, I invited them over one by one for a big 'ta-da' moment," he says. "Surprising my friends felt satisfying and prevented them from saying anything negative beforehand. Ultimately, they were happy for me because they knew how insecure I’d been about my nose.”

Aubrey Nolan, co-founder of CrushFit, also felt apprehensive about revealing her cosmetic treatments. “I feel like there’s a huge stigma against getting any kind of work done, especially on your face," she says. "I got my [lips](https://aedit.com/procedure/permanent-lip-fillers) done and I was scared to even talk about it on social media. I feared what people would think of me and I considered not telling anyone.” But after giving it some thought, Nolan reconsidered. “I’ve been as transparent as possible with everything that I do.  I guess I just don’t see what the big deal is.” When a few followers responded negatively to her choices, she initially felt defensive, but now realizes that “getting work done doesn’t change the heart I have and I no longer feel the need to defend my actions.”

YouTube beauty blogger Elwa Saleh had a different concern surrounding her decision to have plastic surgery to correct her partial nasal collapse. Her family and friends were very supportive from the beginning, so Saleh says she “was not concerned about any judgment or scrutiny. But I was worried about the swelling lasting a long time since I make my living blogging about beauty and fashion. Most of my work is on camera and my face is a big part of my job.” After the procedure, “I did get a lot of questions about why I did it from my social media community," she says. "Some jumped to conclusions and thought I had major cosmetic surgery but once I spoke up about what I had done, the judgments dissipated.” 

One thing is clear: everyone has an opinion about cosmetic surgery and the more obvious the change, the stronger people tend to feel. But the degree to which people notice a person’s cosmetic surgery depends on more than just the procedure and the surgeon’s skill. It’s directly linked to the level of familiarity involved. The better we know someone, the more likely they are to notice a change. 

This connection was the key to understanding my family’s lackluster response to my own cosmetic surgery. They felt comfortable enough with me to express their uncensored emotions. Strangers risk this behavior, but social media has reframed what we consider familiar. All people are prone to pass judgment. “When you decide to go under the knife, that decision should be made with the understanding that people will judge because of their own insecurities and they may try to hurt your feelings," says Dr. Saadat. "If you do your homework and find a surgeon who will do a very good job, people will be pleasantly surprised to realize that you actually look like an improved version of yourself, and they’ll come to terms with it.”

Here are some tips for talking to your family and friends about cosmetic surgery: 

### **Choose Wisely**
“You need to be careful about who you tell beforehand," says Dr. Saadat. "They need to be open-minded people who aren’t going to be thinking about their own insecurities.” Although it’s impossible to really predict how a person will react to your decision to seek cosmetic surgery, confide only in those friends or family members who have your best interest and self-esteem at heart. 

### **Keep Calm and Confident**
If you’ve thoroughly considered every aspect of choosing cosmetic surgery, from examining your own psychological motivation to researching your procedure and cosmetic surgeon, someone else's snarky comments become insignificant. Relay your reasoning without defensiveness or excessive emotion. If you communicate your seriousness about improving your quality of life, your friends and family may be less likely to find fault in your choice.

### **Look Deeper**
Fear or insecurity could be behind someone's negative reaction. The topic of cosmetic surgery is so charged because it can tap into our deep insecurities and can sometimes bring up feelings of inadequacy in someone. Keep in mind, your loved one’s negative response may have very little to do with you.

### **Don’t Try To Win**
Stay focused on your purpose. You're having this conversation to inform your loved one about a decision that you’ve made for yourself, not to try to change their mind about cosmetic surgery. If things start getting heated, agree to disagree before feelings get hurt. 

### **Be Patient**
Sometimes time is all it takes for people to accept their loved one’s decision to undergo a cosmetic procedure. “At the end of the day, it’s the patient who truly has to live with their transformation," says Dr. Roostaeian. "If an aesthetic surgeon does their job well, the results will blend so seamlessly with their existing features that eventually, even their closest friends and family may forget there was ever a change.” 

### **Be Yourself**
While there’s no magic formula for talking to your friends and family about cosmetic surgery, keep these pointers in mind and be prepared for the onslaught of opinions. People who truly care about you will appreciate your honesty, so be as forthcoming as you feel comfortable being. Remember, how we present ourselves is up to us, but how we are perceived by others is beyond our control. Staying true to yourself will keep you feeling beautiful, inside and out.


Talking about your cosmetic procedures with people close to you can be tricky. You never quite know how they'll react. We spoke to plastic surgeon Dr. Jason Roostaeian, as well as actual patients, for tips on how to make the conversation work for you.  

How To Talk To Your Friends and Family About Cosmetic Surgery

How To Talk To Your Friends And Family About Cosmetic Surgery

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Sitting in front of her closest family and friends, Melissa* made a wish and blew out the 26 candles on her birthday cake. All around the table, her friends snapped away to document the special occasion. The next day, when Melissa looked at the photos of her blowing out the candles, she did not see herself.

“I saw a photo of my profile and I was shocked! I did not think the photo looked like me, yet it was,” Melissa said. “I realized I did not look the way I thought I looked which was a strange feeling.” 

While a cosmetic procedure certainly can enhance someone’s appearance, it can do so much more than just that. Reconstructing a feature or [enhancing body shape](https://aedit.com/procedure/velashape) can not only make someone look better but it can also boost their confidence and make them feel more like themselves. However, it’s not an easy process and needs to be planned out. Here is how some patients went about finding themselves through cosmetic surgery. 

## **They Took Time Researching and Deciding On the Procedure** 

Choosing to undergo a cosmetic procedure is not an overnight decision for most. While some procedures are reversible (e.g. [dermal filler](https://aedit.com/procedure/under-eye-filler)), others are permanent (e.g. [facelift](https://aedit.com/procedure/minifacelift) or nose job). Because of that, the research process can be quite lengthy as patients look to gain a holistic understanding of the different options and what each procedure entails. 

Like Melissa, many patients undergo a considerable process of pre-contemplation, consideration, and research before following through. All of Melissa’s life she had joked about pursuing a nose job ([rhinoplasty](https://aedit.com/procedure/open-rhinoplasty)) before giving plastic surgery serious thought. For as long as she could remember, she never liked her nose and felt “it better suited a man and was not feminine.” It was not until she moved to Manhattan that she realized, it was now or never. She was surrounded by some of the best plastic surgeons. In Melissa’s mind, there was no excuse not to.

As a first step, Melissa, like most prospective cosmetic procedure patients, turned to the internet to research options. She focused on people who were happy with their results but also sought out less successful stories to better understand the potential risks. Similarly, Anne*, a [tummy tuck](https://aedit.com/procedure/abdominoplasty) (also known as abdominoplasty) patient, shared how she watched a video of an actual abdominoplasty procedure on YouTube when contemplating surgery. From that, she learned that an abdominoplasty is not a light decision, but a “major procedure.” Regardless, to Anne, it was worth it to rebuild her confidence by removing the extra skin she had from weight loss and tightening the loosened stomach muscles that were stretched out from pregnancy. 

After identifying which procedure and type of doctor, the natural next step is to schedule office visits for consultations. Anne had a friend who had a tummy tuck and was happy with the results, so Anne knew that if she were to follow through with a tummy tuck, she would see her friend’s board certified plastic surgeon. On the other hand, Melissa did not know anyone who has had a rhinoplasty before so she consulted with two rhinoplasty specialists and one general plastic surgeon. In addition to reviewing potential cosmetic surgeons’ credentials, like medical school, residency program, and plastic surgery training, Melissa made sure to discuss surgical techniques as well as request examples of each plastic surgeon’s past rhinoplasty work. Using a platform like AEDIT is also a great way to find a top-rated doctor. With a curation of only board certified doctors, users can easily find and be confident in their selection. 

While Melissa and Anne knew exactly which procedures they wanted to pursue, sometimes it can be less clear for others. For instance, when targeting unwanted fat, there can be several methods available, like [CoolSculpting](https://aedit.com/procedure/cool-sculpting), [liposuction](https://aedit.com/procedure/laser-assisted-liposuction), or [Kybella®](https://aedit.com/procedure/kybella), just to name a few. As Matt, a Kybella® patient shared “after doing the research it still was hard for me to find a procedure that was right for me and I kinda gambled.” Before learning about The AEDITION which is a one-stop-shop for information about cosmetic procedures, Matt found the research process time consuming and difficult. He explained that “the information is sprawled all over the internet, and I had to cobble it together from different sources.” Like Melissa, Matt did not like the way he looked in pictures and never felt comfortable taking photos with family or friends. In his case, he knew that weight loss alone was not going to solve his issue. Even at his skinniest, he still was unsatisfied and uncomfortable with his appearance in photos. Kybella® was a non-invasive way to treat the excess fat under the chin (also known as submental fullness) with injections administered by a Kybella® trained specialist.

##**They Planned for the Surgical Post-Op**

Recovery is just as important as the surgery so patients must also plan for recuperation as well. Depending on the procedure type, patients can be out of commission for days or even weeks. With Anne’s general surgery, she had to stay in bed and lay flat on her back for a week. Prior to her surgery, Anne had arranged for her daughter to care for her. With less invasive treatments like Kybella®, recovery time is much shorter when compared to a procedure like a tummy tuck or facelift. However, with less invasive treatments like Kybella® or [dermal filler](https://aedit.com/procedure/temporary-lip-fillers), patients may have to have several treatments before seeing its effects and a noticeable difference. 

Possibly even more difficult than the physical stress of procedures is the trust patients must have in their doctors. Patients must trust that their plastic surgeons or certified injectors understand their vision of what they would like to look like coming out of the procedure. They also must find the right balance of change so they still look like themselves but are not a completely different looking person. Fortunately, there are simulators, like the AEDITOR app, which is a precise facial morphing tool where people can adjust their nose, brows, and lips in order to ensure they are comfortable with the changes before following through with surgery.

“Looking back, I was nervous and told the doctor I wanted a nose job but I still wanted to look like ME,” Melissa said. “And thinking back now, that was the wrong thing to say because the fact was, I was seeking plastic surgery because I did not want to look like me.”

## **What You Should Know If You’re Considering an Aesthetic Procedure**  

Feature-focused plastic surgeries, like Melissa’s rhinoplasty, can feel risky for the person undergoing the surgery because they are reconstructing a feature in an entirely new way. The outcome is not as easy to visualize compared to procedures, such as facelifts or tummy tucks, which have clear objectives to leave the patient looking naturally younger or thinner. When possible, it is important to use a facial simulator, like the AEDITOR app, especially when trying to communicate objectively with the doctor. When pursuing weight loss or rejuvenation procedures, most patients have already seen themselves in that younger or thinner state and know exactly what to expect. On the other hand, when changing specific features, such as the nose, cheeks, or lips, or undergoing reconstructive surgery, like fixing a cleft lip, patients are hoping to uncover a new external identity. The goal is for them to look in the mirror and see their true selves for the first time. 

With major advances in aesthetic surgery over the years, people can be the best physical versions of themselves through the endless options of cosmetic procedures. Dreams of having the perfect curves, toned abs, or plump lips are made a reality through surgery and/or injections. Even more impactful are the advances that benefit those seeking reconstructive or preventative surgery. Breast cancer survivors can mask their wounds through breast reconstruction surgeries and citizens of third world countries can regain confidence through plastic and reconstructive surgeries offered by mission trips. 

For larger surgeries, such as a tummy tuck or breast surgery (e.g. [breast augmentation](https://aedit.com/procedure/breast-augmentation-with-fat-transfer) or [breast reduction](https://aedit.com/procedure/breast-reduction)), changes can be immediately noticeable. Even so, patients can still keep their procedures private if they wish to. “I didn’t tell many people about the surgery and just told them I had lost weight, which was pretty obvious,” Anne explained. To this day, only Anne’s closest family and friends know about her recent surgery.

So, can cosmetic procedure patients find the inner confidence they were hoping for? The short answer: absolutely.

With treatments like Xeomin®, Kybella®, or CoolSculpting, improvements can be delayed because of the multiple sessions needed, but can still be highly transformative. Matt shared that he required three sessions of Kybella® but “once there was a noticeable difference it made me much more confident on a daily basis.”

Melissa felt her confidence boosted immediately after healing from her rhinoplasty. Prior to surgery, she was self-conscious that the first thing people noticed about her was her nose. After surgery, Melissa was relieved that her nose would no longer be the focal point of her face. Even though Melissa is so happy she took action and control of this pain point of hers, she admits she would have approached the surgery differently by working with a rhinoplasty specialist rather than a board certified plastic surgeon. “I still do not love the way it looks, which is a little disappointing, but it is better than it was, and I have accepted that as being better than nothing,” Melissa said.

It can be hard to achieve perfect results and complete satisfaction, but it is not impossible! Anne shared how happy she is with her tummy tuck, even several years later. Anne opted for a tummy tuck to regain her confidence for her daughter’s wedding. “When I went to try on the dress for my daughter's wedding and looked in the mirror, I was incredibly overwhelmed,” Anne shared. “Besides having lost weight, the surgery made my torso look incredible. I never thought I could look that good!”

With open expectations and willingness to change, aesthetic procedures have the potential to not only enhance appearance but also transform someone’s confidence! 

*The patient’s name has been changed.

Finding The Real Me: How Cosmetic Procedures Can Reveal Your Inner Beauty Plastic Surgery Injectables