Sourced directly from Dr. Brian S. Glatt's social posts and replies.
Is it true that only surgery can fix wrinkles once they form?
No, this is a common misconception. Surgery itself does not fix wrinkles; it primarily improves contour but doesn't directly address the skin surface.
How does Dr. Glatt approach wrinkle treatment?
Dr. Glatt explains that surgery primarily improves contour and does not directly fix wrinkles on the skin surface. Dynamic wrinkles, caused by motion (e.g., smiling around eyes), are effectively treated with Botox or other neuromodulators. Static wrinkles, such as smoker's lines or those from aging/sun damage, require skin resurfacing treatments like laser treatments, chemical peels, or dermabrasion. The choice of resurfacing modality depends on provider preference, patient exam, and patient preferences.
Do breast implants need to be replaced every 10 years?
No, this is a common misconception. While implants are designed to last forever, most individuals will likely need a replacement at some point, though the exact timing and reason are unpredictable. Implants are designed to last longer than 10 years, but can rupture sooner. Routine replacement every 10 years is not necessary. Saline implants will visibly deflate if ruptured, making it obvious. Silicone implants, however, do not lose their shape upon rupture, so regular monitoring with proper imaging (MRI, or high-resolution ultrasound) is crucial, typically every three to five years depending on the individual situation.
What is Dr. Glatt's approach to facial filler treatments?
Dr. Glatt's approach to facial fillers is rooted in a deep understanding of facial anatomy. He explains that natural facial volume comes from fat pads held by ligaments. As we age, these ligaments lose collagen and elastin, causing fat pads to stretch and descend, leading to visible signs like separations between eyes/cheeks, nasolabial folds, and jowls. Filler treatments aim to restore the volume of these fat pads. The choice of filler product (which vary in thickness and properties) is carefully selected based on the specific facial area and whether the fat pads are superficial or deep, ensuring optimal and natural-looking results.
What is the Cool Peel Fusion treatment with Helix CO2 Laser, and what is the recovery like?
The Cool Peel Fusion treatment using the Helix CO2 Laser addresses concerns such as skin texture, pore size, tone, dullness, and early onset skin laxity. It uses both ablative wavelengths for superficial concerns (fine lines, texture) and non-ablative wavelengths that penetrate deeper to stimulate collagen and improve skin laxity, all in a single pass. A series of three treatments, spaced four to six weeks apart, is typically recommended. Immediately after treatment, patients can expect all-over redness (lasting about three days) and a rough, sandpaper-like texture with small white dots (lasting about a week until peeling). A Cortessa Post Care Kit with all necessary products and instructions is provided for recovery, after which skin will appear glowing.
What happens if a breast implant ruptures, and what is the replacement process?
If a saline implant ruptures, it will deflate as the body absorbs the IV fluid, making the rupture obvious. For silicone gel implants, a rupture is not visibly or palpably detectable because the modern 'super cohesive' gel retains its shape and is contained by the natural scar tissue capsule formed around the implant. Detection of silicone rupture requires imaging, such as MRI or high-resolution ultrasound. If a rupture is detected, implants are warrantied: the practice replaces them, and the implant company covers the cost of new implants and contributes towards the replacement surgery.
Can injectable fillers be dissolved, and how does the process work?
Most injectable fillers, specifically hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers (the most common type), can be dissolved using a safe protein called hyaluronidase. The ease of dissolution depends on the filler's thickness; thinner fillers like Volbella are easier to dissolve than stiffer ones like Voluma, which may require multiple treatments. Accurate knowledge of the original filler placement is crucial for effective dissolution. Non-HA or permanent fillers will not be dissolved by hyaluronidase, which is a common reason for non-response when dissolution is attempted elsewhere.
Who performs Radiofrequency Microneedling at Dr. Glatt's practice?
Radiofrequency Microneedling treatments are performed by the estheticians at Dr. Glatt's practice.
What treatments does Dr. Glatt offer for perioral lines (lines around the mouth)?
For perioral lines, Dr. Glatt's practice offers several treatments: Botox can be applied to the upper lip to relax it and prevent lines from forming. Fillers or skin boosters injected superficially can smooth the appearance of existing lines. Radiofrequency microneedling, performed by estheticians, lightly resurfaces the skin to help with fine lines and texture. For those seeking more significant results and able to accommodate more downtime, laser resurfacing is offered as the most invasive but ultimate treatment.
Should I get fillers before or after a facelift, and are they still needed post-surgery?
Fillers are perfectly safe to administer before a facelift and can even enhance volume and benefit the overall facelift plan. Dr. Glatt has no issue with patients receiving fillers pre-facelift. It's a misconception that fillers are no longer needed after a facelift; facelifts primarily move and lift existing volume, but don't produce new volume. Since aging and volume loss are ongoing processes, continued filler treatments are very important post-facelift to maintain results, volume, and a fresh appearance, often significantly enhancing the surgical outcome.