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What They Don't Tell You About Eyelid Surgery

What They Don’t Tell You About Eyelid Surgery: Blepharoplasty, Ptosis, + Facial Aesthetics with Dr. Zhang-Nunes

Eyes: The Intersection of Functionality and Beauty The eyes are the most expressive and delicate part of the face. They convey emotion, enhance communication, and define facial aesthetics. But what happens when age, genetics, or medical conditions impact their appearance or function? That’s where oculoplastic surgery—a unique blend of medicine and artistry—steps in. Our latest podcast explores the fascinating world of oculoplastic surgery with one of the field’s most renowned experts, Dr. Sandy X. Zhang-Nunes. Whether you’re curious about eyelid surgery, facial fillers, or how to maintain youthful eyes, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss. Meet Dr. Sandy X. Zhang-Nunes Dr. Sandy X. Zhang-Nunes serves as the Director of Oculofacial Plastic Surgery at the USC Roski Eye Institute and holds a position as an Associate Professor of Clinical Ophthalmology. Her path to becoming a leader in the field is nothing short of extraordinary. Dr. Zhang-Nunes began her…

Why Do Fillers Cost So Much youtube thumbnail, image of a doctor injecting patient with fillers

Cost of Fillers Explained by Cosmetic Injectable Expert

If you’ve ever looked into getting dermal fillers, you’ve probably noticed the hefty price tag that often comes with them. But what justifies the cost of fillers? Dr. Stephen Bracci, from VERVE Medical Cosmetics, breaks down the hidden costs and science behind achieving those flawless, youthful results. The Hidden Costs of Fillers Many people approach fillers as a one-off treatment, purchasing individual syringes of filler at a time. This can lead to a “patchwork” approach, where people bounce from provider to provider, often choosing soft fillers like Juvéderm or Restylane. While these fillers are popular because they’re easy to inject and have minimal downtime, they can result in a puffy, unnatural look over time due to water retention. Dr. Bracci prefers a more strategic approach: using firmer fillers like Radiesse and Sculptra, which provide longer-lasting, more natural results. These types of fillers are more technically demanding to inject, but they…

Juvederm VS Versa: What is the best lip filler? Thumbnail

Which is the Best Lip Filler: Juvederm or Versa?

Lip fillers are one of the most popular non-surgical procedures and have come a long way. With so many different brands of filler, which is the best lip filler for you? Dr. Stephen Bracci has been treating patients for over 20 years and is here to discuss two of the most popular fillers: Juvederm and Versa. History of Juvederm and Versa Juvederm has been around for a while, and I’ve seen it transform over the years. In 2010, we had Juvederm Ultra, and I loved it for its softer feel. It was perfect for subtle enhancements. But times changed, and so did Juvederm. Around 2016 and 2017, we saw the introduction of newer fillers, Juvederm Volbella and Versa. Now, these two fillers were game-changers. They came with higher G’ values (that’s tech talk for firmness and lifting ) and less water affinity. In simple terms, there is less chance of…

cheek filler myths thumbnail, photo of doctor injecting cheek fillers

The Truth About Cheek Filler: Debunking Cheekbone Filler Myths

Worried about cheek fillers making you look overdone? Let Dr. Stephen Bracci from VERVE Medical Cosmetics guide you on achieving a sculpted look without puffiness. If you’re considering cheek fillers, schedule a consultation at VERVE Medical Cosmetics to look like the best version of yourself. Frequently Asked Questions about Cheek Fillers Q1: What should I look for when choosing a practitioner for cheek fillers? A1: When selecting a practitioner, prioritize their experience and training in aesthetic injectables. Look for reviews or before-and-after photos of their work, and ensure they take the time to discuss your goals and concerns during the consultation. Q2: How long do the results from cheek fillers typically last? A2: The longevity of cheek fillers can vary based on the type of filler used and individual factors like metabolism and skin condition. Generally, results can last from six months to two years, with firmer fillers like Radiesse…

Image of a woman receiving botox in her brow area with title text reading "Botox Brow Lift"

What is a Botox Brow Lift?

Explore how to achieve a more youthful look in just minutes-without surgery, makeup, or threads! Join Dr. Stephen Bracci as he dives into the transformative effects of the Botox Brow Lift. How Botox Brow Lift Works The Botox brow lift targets specific areas of the frontalis muscle, the primary muscle responsible for lifting the eyebrows. By injecting Botox strategically, we can relax certain parts of this muscle, reducing forehead wrinkles while still allowing for eyebrow elevation. Additionally, by relaxing the muscles that pull the eyebrows downward—such as the corrugator supercilii, procerus, and orbicularis oculi—we enhance the lifting effect. Understanding the Science The mechanics behind the Botox brow lift are straightforward: Aging and the Forehead As we age, repetitive movements such as raising our eyebrows contribute to the development of horizontal lines and drooping brows. These changes can make us appear tired or older than we are. Botox can effectively address…

Under-Eye Fillers Gone Wrong: Causes, Symptoms, and Solutions

Under-eye filler gone wrong can happen for several reasons. If you’ve had a bad experience with your treatment, it’s crucial to understand what went wrong, recognize the symptoms, and know how to fix it. This article covers the common issues, serious complications, and solutions for botched under-eye fillers.

Best Filler for Cheekbones: Top Choices Reviewed

Wondering which filler is the best filler for cheekbones? This article covers top options, their benefits, and longevity to help you decide. Key Takeaways Understanding Filler for Cheekbones Cheek fillers, a popular cosmetic procedure, are primarily used to enhance cheekbones and provide facial volume. The main purposes of cheek filler procedures include minimizing fine lines, restoring facial volume, and enhancing bone structure. These treatments are particularly beneficial for individuals experiencing age-related volume loss, acne scarring, or a perpetually tired appearance. Cheek fillers not only enhance aesthetics but also restore lost volume, improve cheekbone structure, and minimize signs of aging, resulting in a more youthful look. They address age-related volume loss, preventing a sunken appearance and enhancing overall facial features. Many prefer cheek fillers over invasive surgery due to minimal downtime and safety. These cheek filler injections can be customized during treatment sessions, accommodating unique facial structures and aesthetic goals. This…

a close up of a woman's face

Mastering the Art: Nasolabial Fold Filler | Smile Lines Treatment

Welcome to a deep discussion into the sophisticated world of facial fillers, particularly focusing on nasolabial folds—those lines and creases that frame our mouths and can deepen with age. This blog explores cutting-edge techniques that not only promise to smooth and soften these lines but also enhance facial contour subtly, effectively, and most importantly naturally.  Understanding What Causes Nasolabial Folds Nasolabial folds or smile lines are the lines and wrinkles that run from the sides of the nose to the corners of the mouth, often deepening with age due to changes in skin elasticity and more so from facial volume. We essentially lose the support system below our skin and the nasolabial folds are often the first place to show this loss. Their prominence can significantly affect facial expressions and aesthetics, making them a common concern for cosmetic treatment. Choosing the Right Type of Nasolabial Fold Filler Choosing the correct…

Botox for Under Eye Wrinkles | Is Botox Under Eyes Effective?

Botox for Under Eye Wrinkles | Is Botox Under Eyes Effective?

When rejuvenating the face, the eyes are often where people first notice signs of aging. Under-eye wrinkles can give the appearance of tiredness and age a person beyond their years. Botox, known for its ability to smooth lines and wrinkles, offers a solution. However, the under-eye area requires a delicate and expert approach to avoid complications and achieve the desired rejuvenation. Understanding Under-Eye Wrinkles + Eye Bags  Under-eye wrinkles arise from various factors including aging, genetics, lifestyle, and environmental exposures. The major factor contributing to wrinkling of the skin under the eyes is also related to what causes eye bags, namely the loss of supportive tissues under the skin, and the loss of bone, muscle, and fat.  These lines may be exacerbated by repeated facial expressions such as repetitive smiling or squinting. Before considering Botox, it’s important to understand that while it can reduce the appearance of wrinkles caused by…