Most think of Botox as the go-go solution to minimize or even get rid of existing wrinkles. But a growing demographic of skincare clients are opting for the procedure long before wrinkles are due to appear. According to research from the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, there has been a 41 per cent increase in Botox treatments in the 19-to-34 age group from 2011 to 2015.

Figures from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, a similar organization, back that claim. ASPS statistics show that last year, 6.7 million Botox procedures were performed. Among them, some 100,000 were performed on patients in their 20s. Yet another organization, the America Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, confirms that 64 percent of plastic surgeons nationwide report an increase in patients younger than 30 requesting Botox and other aesthetic procedures last year.

“We are seeing a younger demographic than ever before seeking consultations and treatments with facial plastic surgeons all over the country,” AAFPRS President Dr. Edwin Williams, II said in a press release. “The prevalence of non-invasive procedures like lasers, peels and injections are making it even more appealing for young people to dip their toe in to aesthetic enhancements before aging is even a concern.”

Botox works by relaxing the muscles used in making facial expressions, smoothing out the lines that form over years of repetitive muscle contraction. Recent research suggests that over time, Botox can help the body not only heal existing wrinkles, but also help prevent the formation of future wrinkles. One study followed a pair of twin sisters over a period of 13 years, one of whom underwent Botox treatment three times a year while the other received injections just once a year. As you might suspect, the sister who received more injections had noticeably fewer and less defined facial lines and crow’s feet at the end of the study.

Why wait until the signs of aging already mark your face? You can easily and affordably battle aging head-on with smaller injections earlier or on, assuring that your look will always be smooth, healthy and youthful. Call Jacksonville’s Parkway Plastic Surgery today to find out if Botox is right for you. Reach us at 904-396-1186.

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, an annual campaign designed to help spread awareness and education about the disease that strikes one in eight women US women sometime over the course of their lives. This year alone, experts estimated 246,660 new cases of invasive breast cancer will be diagnosed, along with 61,000 new cases of non-invasive breast cancer.

For many, a partial or full mastectomy will be part of the treatment plan. While effective, this procedure comes has physical, emotional and self-esteem impacts. So, breast reconstruction surgery often is included in the full plan to help a woman heal and feel whole again. In fact, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, 106,300 breast reconstruction procedures were performed last year – a 35-percent increase since 2000.

If you’re planning to undergo breast reconstruction, know that you’ll likely feel tired and sore for a few weeks following implant surgery, but you should be back to your normal daily routine within six to eight months. Keep in mind that reconstruction does not restore normal feeling to your breasts, but that doesn’t mean you’ll be left without sensation. Plus, feeling may improve over time. Expect swelling and bruising to fade in about eight weeks and while scars won’t ever fully disappear, they’ll fade with time.

It’s critical that you follow your surgeon’s instructions on the proper types of bras to wear throughout your healing period. And, know that you’ll need to take it easy for a while. As a basic rule, you’ll want to avoid overhead lifting, strenuous sports and some sexual activities for four to six weeks after reconstruction. Some women report going through a period of emotional adjustment following reconstruction surgery. Talking with peers who have undergone reconstructive surgery can be helpful.

If you’re considering breast reconstruction, Jacksonville’s Parkway Plastic Surgery can answer all your questions and develop a plan tailored just for you. Call 904-396-1186 to schedule a consultation today.

Treat your skin…………

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Purchase an Obagi Nu-Derm System and receive a travel size cleanser, toner & sunblock free!

Trick your wrinkles………

Purchase a full syringe of any facial filler & treat yourself to 12 units of Botox free!

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Purchase a Clarisonic Smart Profile unit & receive  a free pedicure kit to use with the Clarisonic unit.