Minimally Invasive Procedures Salt Lake City
“Looking Great on Short Notice”
Click on the highlighted section for further information about each procedure
- Rejuvenation of the lower face and lips – JUVEDERM
- Rejuvenation of the cheeks and temples – SCULPTRA
Botox
What is it? Botox is a toxin that works by temporarily paralyzing muscles
Where is it used? Mostly in the upper part of the face, between the eyes, in the “crow’s feet”, forehead, and conservatively in the lower part of the face.
How long does it last? 3-4 months
Are there risks? Overall the medication is very safe. The main risk is a temporary paralaysis of a muscle that one does not want to be weak. There is a published risk of an allergic reaction to the toxin, but this is very rare. Generally, use of this medication is well tolerated and very safe to use.
Does the injection hurt? Very little. The medication is mixed in saline that does not hurt to inject. The needle used to inject is very small and thin (30 gauge, 1/2 inch needle). While usually not necessary, if the patient has a particular aversion to needles, a numbing cream can be applied that helps improve tolerance.
How much does Botox cost? While most doctors charge by the unit, Dr. Bitner charges by the area to be treated. The charge is $175 for each area treated. Typically areas include the glabella (between the eyebrows), forehead and the “crow’s feet” on the sides of the eyes. Typically 15-20 units are used for each area treated. In charging by the area, Dr. Bitner insures that you get enough Botox in the area to be maximally effective. If you are not fully satisfied, additional “touch ups” are done at no charged. First-time patients are eligible for discounts. Feel free to email Dr. Bitner with questions about your eligibility.
Are there other uses for Botox besides cosmetic? Blepharospasm, hyperhydrosis (sweaty palms and armpits), migraine headaches, muscle spasms such as tortocolis and others. Dr. Bitner is an expert at Botox and it’s many uses. This includes both cosmetic and non-cosmetic (insurance covered) situations.
Radiesse
What is it made of? Calcium Hydroxylapetite
How does it work? There is a two fold mechanism by which it works. First, the filling material itself is made up of a bone-type material which physically fills the space, plumping up the fold itself. After this initial effect, the material stimulates the surrounding connective tissue cells called fibroblasts. The fibroblasts respond by depositing new collagen, further plumping and tightening the area.
Where can it be used? Radiesse can only be injected deep. It is an excellent filler for the folds that form on the sides of the mouth. These folds are called nasolabial folds and melolabial folds. The material can also be used deep along the bone of the jaw or cheeks. It can not be used in the lips as it will inevitably leave lumps.
How long does it last? 18 months or more.
How much does Radiesse cost? $600 per syringe. One syringe is 1.5 cc but typically overfilled to 1.6 cc. Ask Dr. Bitner about first-time patient discounts and other specials that may be available.
Restylane- Click Here for more information about Restylane
What is Restylane made of? It is a clear gelatinous substance called hyaluronic acid. This is a normal component of normal human skin.
How much does Restylane cost?- $550/1 cc injected. Please ask about first-time patient specials and other promotions offered.
How long will it last? The original FDA filing demonstrated that the product was present for six months or more. Further studies have shown that the product may last for up to a year, especially when a touch up is done at three months. Ask Dr. Bitner for details of this approach.
Where is Restylane most effective? No question, Restalyne is amazing when used around the mouth, both in the lips and the smile lines. Patient selection is key. Ask Dr. Bitner what option is best for your individual needs.
Can Restylane be mixed with other products? Absolutely. It is common for patients to come in for Botox in the upper face and filler around the mouth. Further, different fillers can be used around the mouth in a mix-and-match fashion. A common combination is Radiesse as a deep filler in the nasolabial and melolabial folds with Restalyne in the lips.
Juvederm- Click Here for more information about Juvederm
What is Juvederm made of? Much like Restylane, Juvederm is also a clear gelatinous substance called hyaluronic acid. Although both products are made of hyaluronic acid, modifications in the molecular structure and crosslinking give the products slightly different properties. Juvederm tends to be a little more viscous.
How much does Juvederm cost?- The cost is $550/1 cc injected. We also offer first-time patient specials and other promotions for Juvederm.
How long will it last? 6-12 months, sometimes longer.
Where is Juvederm most effective? I feel that the added viscosity of Juvederm make it an excellent plumper of the lips. I typically use Restylane to give added definition to the border of the lip (i.e. where the red lip joins white lip). This helps to not only define the lip, but works to eliminate some of the fine lines (whistle lines) around the lips. Juvederm, on the other hand, is used directly into the lip to give increased fullness and plumpness. Juvederm can also be used in nasolabial and melolabial fold, especially if the fold is somewhat shallow.
Can Juvederm be mixed with other products? Also, absolutely Yes. Dr. Bitner is an expert at dermal injections and can let you know which product or combination of products will suit your needs the best.
