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FDA-approved in 2004, Botox© for underarm sweating (hyperhidrosis) can be an effective treatment for those experiencing severe and persistent underarm sweating. Please seek a skilled and experienced injector in Cincinnati to help determine whether this is an appropriate treatment for you. It is important to seek not only a fellowship-trained but also a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon if you have aesthetic concerns about your face and/or neck. The Neurotransmitter Blocked by Botox© in Muscles is the Same as Sweat Glands Acetylcholine, the neurotransmitter molecule that causes muscle contraction, also causes sweat glands to secrete sweat. Botox© acts at the site of injection to inhibit the release of acetylcholine. Therefore, Botox© can function to inhibit the release of sweat from the underarms. The Effects of Botox© for Hyperhidrosis Can Be Long-Lasting Approximately 50 units of Botox© are heavily diluted and injected on either underarm. The effects of Botox© on underarm sweating can last six months to one year, longer than the effects when placed in the face for cosmetic purposes. Achieving a Proper Depth of Botox© Injection is Essential The injection of Botox© for underarm sweating is more shallow than cosmetic injections of the face because the sweat glands reside closer to the surface of the skin than muscle. A proper depth of injection is essential to achieving ideal results. Why Choose Dr. Harmon The mission of Harmon Facial Plastic Surgery is to help people along their journey towards self-confidence, to feel good about feeling good. Dr. Harmon is a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon. Dr. Harmon values making patients feel welcomed, listened to, and respected. Dr. Harmon graduated with honors from Cornell University with a Bachelor of Science degree in molecular biology. Dr. Harmon earned his medical degree from the University of Cincinnati. Dr. Harmon underwent five years of extensive training in head at neck surgery at the prestigious residency program at the University of Cincinnati. Dr. Harmon then underwent focused fellowship training in cosmetic facial plastic surgery through the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (AAFPRS) with the world-renowned surgeon, Dr. Andrew Jacono, on Park Avenue in New York City. Request a Consultation Request a consultation with Dr. Harmon at Harmon Facial Plastic Surgery in Cincinnati. Visit our clinic. You will learn more about Dr. Harmon's credentials, style, and approach. Build a relationship with our dedicated team. Do not stop at searching "plastic surgery near me." Get in touch with us to learn more! Contact Us

The treatment of scars is complex and often requires multiple modalities of treatment, including lasers, chemical peels, topical medications, injected medications, and even surgery. For more information on the treatment of scars, please visit the linked blog post. One proposed treatment for scars is Botox© and similar medications which are also referred to as Botulinum Toxin-A. A recent study sought to answer the question of whether Botulinum Toxin-A is an effective treatment for scars by combining the data from multiple previous studies to perform something called a systematic review and meta-analysis, which is a qualitative and quantitative study of the effects of an intervention. For more information on how physicians review the literature, please visit the linked blog post. It is important to seek not only a fellowship-trained but also a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon if you have aesthetic concerns about your face and/or neck. A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Demonstrated the Effectiveness of Botox© and Similar Medications in Treating Scars A systematic review and meta-analysis published in medical literature reviewed approximately 20 studies to evaluate the effects of Botulinum Toxin-A on scar formation. This study demonstrated an improvement in the appearance of scars with treatment with Botulinum Toxin-A when compared with incisions that were not treated, also known as the control (1). A more recent systematic review and meta-analysis confirmed these findings, especially for the use of Botulinum Toxin-A in the forehead and upper lip (2). Typically, the best method to assess scar formation is with what is called a split-scar study. A split-scar study involves the treatment of half the scar with the other half of the scar serving as the control. Many of these papers included split-scar studies and utilized methods of assessing the appearance of scars that have been approved as being objective enough to be included in medical studies. The Mechanism of Action by Which Botox© Can Improve Scar Appearance is Not Known The mechanism by which Botox© and other similar products can improve the appearance of scars is not yet clear. It may be that the medication affects the cascade of signaling molecules that affect the healing process. It may also be that, by reducing the contraction of muscles around the incision, there is less tension on that incision, thereby improving the appearance of the scar. More research is required to determine the mechanism of action of Botulinum Toxin-A on scar formation. Botox© and Similar Products are a Promising Treatment for Scars but Remain FDA Off-Label While the potential benefits of the treatment of scars with Botulinum Toxin-A is promising, It is important to note that the FDA has not yet reviewed and approved the use of Botox© and similar products for the treatment of scars. However, as with many other interventions, the road to FDA approval starts with research demonstrating the effectiveness of the treatment, as evidenced by the above study. Trust Your Face to a Facial Plastic Surgeon It is important to seek a fellowship-trained specialist in plastic surgery of the face and neck when you have concerns about your face or neck. Why Choose Dr. Harmon The mission of Harmon Facial Plastic Surgery is to help people along their journey towards self-confidence, to feel good about feeling good. Dr. Harmon is a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon Dr. Harmon values making patients feel welcomed, listened to, and respected. Dr. Harmon graduated with honors from Cornell University with a Bachelor of Science degree in molecular biology. Dr. Harmon earned his medical degree from the University of Cincinnati. Dr. Harmon underwent five years of extensive training in head at neck surgery at the prestigious residency program at the University of Cincinnati. Dr. Harmon then underwent focused fellowship training in cosmetic facial plastic surgery through the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (AAFPRS) with the world-renowned surgeon, Dr. Andrew Jacono, on Park Avenue in New York City. Request a Consultation Request a consultation with Dr. Harmon at Harmon Facial Plastic Surgery in Cincinnati. Visit our clinic. You will learn more about Dr. Harmon's credentials, style, and approach. Build a relationship with our dedicated team. Do not stop searching "plastic surgery near me." Get in touch with us to learn more. Contact Us References Rammal A, Mogharbel A. Effectiveness of Botulinum Toxin-A on Face, Head, and Neck Scars: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Facial Plast Surg Aesthet Med. 2023 Nov 7. Rammal A, Mogharbel A. Effectiveness of Botulinum Toxin-A on Face, Head, and Neck Scars: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Facial Plast Surg Aesthet Med. 2024 Jul-Aug;26(4):379-385.

This blog post is adapted from a presentation we have given for interested groups who wanted more information about the use of Botox© in Cincinnati. We at Harmon Facial Plastic Surgery recognize the intelligence and sophistication of our clients. They want to understand the treatments they receive at a deeper level. It is important to seek not only a fellowship-trained but also a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon if you have aesthetic concerns about your face and/or neck. A Brief History of Botox© Research on the use of botulinum toxin (e.g. Botox©) for therapeutic purposes began in the 1960s for patients with strabismus, or "cross eyes." It was first FDA-approved for therapeutic use on strabismus in 1989. It was not until 2002 – thirteen years later - that the FDA approved Botox© for cosmetic use. It was first approved for cosmetic use between the eyebrows, also known as the glabella or "eleven lines." Botox© was then approved for additional areas (underarms, crow's feet, and forehead) over the next 15 years. Other botulinum toxin products (Xeomin©, Dysport©, Jeuveau©) gained approval for cosmetic use in that period as well. How Botox© Works Botox© is delivered at much lower doses for therapeutic and cosmetic purposes than exists naturally. However, its mechanism-of-action is the same. It works at the junction between the muscle and nerve that signals the muscle to contract. Botulinum toxin binds to a terminal at the end of the nerve and prevents the release of molecules that would otherwise signal the muscle to contract. Its effects wear off as the body gradually breaks down and replaces these proteins. The treatment is effective for dynamic rhytids, or coarse wrinkles that develop when we move our faces. When evaluating the effectiveness of any treatment it is best to find the highest quality studies, which are generally randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Even better are studies that combined the data from multiple RCTs. The Cochrane Library is the gold-standard source of medical research. However, it is not always possible to find research on any subject you desire in this database because of the immense work involved studying each question. Fortunately, The Cochrane Library has published on the effectiveness of botulinum toxin in a paper entitled "Botulinum Toxin Type A for Facial Wrinkles." They evaluated 65 RCTs that included a total of 14,919 patients. Injection of botulinum toxin in the glabella was compared with placebo. Results ranged from 4 weeks to 2 years after treatment. They concluded that botulinum toxin is likely effective at week 4 after treatment, which is an important finding. Its effectiveness is reflected in its ubiquity. Botulinum toxin was the most popular non-surgical cosmetic procedure worldwide in 2020 according to statistics compiled by the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ISAPS), with approximately 6.2 million injections performed. The most common age range to receive injections was 35 – 50 years. Common Questions About Botox© A common question is whether Botox© administration is painful. A 31-gauge insulin needle is used, the smallest needle size available in clinic. As a result, treatment is generally associated with little-to-no pain. Another common question is whether Botox© administration is safe. The answer is yes in a significant majority of cases. Its approval by the FDA is an endorsement of its overall safety profile. The best way to evaluate the safety of Botox© treatment is to review both the highest quality data (i.e. RCTs) but also the Adverse Event (AE) reporting to the FDA that occurs whenever a medication is approved for use by the FDA. A 2005 study of FDA-reported AEs associated with botulinum toxin type A used for both therapeutic and cosmetic purposes demonstrated the vast majority of reported AEs at the time were labelled "non-serious," with 63% of those AEs being a "lack of effect," 19% involving an injection site reaction (e.g. pain, bruising, swelling, allergic reaction), and 11% involving eyelid ptosis, or a drooping eyelid, which is a temporary possible risk that can be decreased with appropriate technique. A significantly smaller percentage of AEs were labelled as "serious," the most common of which was swallowing difficulties. It is important to note, however, that reported AEs included injection of botulinum toxin for neck banding, which is in an area very close to muscles that contribute to swallowing. That could explain the above reporting. Moreover, a large majority of AEs reported with botulinum toxin administration were for therapeutic use (e.g. strabismus), not cosmetic use. It is suspected that serious AEs are likely related to both the amount used and the location it is used. Therapeutic uses involve much higher doses than cosmetic uses and are placed in areas with a higher risk of functional problems. Assessing individuals for possible contraindications and appropriate counseling and informed consent is essential. It is very important to evaluate patients who may not be good candidates for the medication. One example is patients with a history of neuromuscular disorders, including Myasthenia Gravis (MG) and Lambert-Eaton Syndrome (LES). Pregnant and/or nursing mothers should not receive it. Patients actively taking aminoglycoside antibiotics or streptomycin should not receive it because the antibiotics could potentiate the effects of the medication. Dr. Harmon has a detailed discussion of the potential benefits and risks of injecting Botox© with every client who is interested in treatment. As a fellowship-trained facial plastic surgeon, he has the detailed understanding of facial anatomy necessary to provide these treatments safely and effectively. Trust Your Face to a Facial Plastic Surgeon It is important to seek a double board-certified, fellowship-trained specialist in plastic surgery of the face and neck when you have concerns about your face or neck. Why Choose Dr. Harmon The mission of Harmon Facial Plastic Surgery is to help people along their journey towards self-confidence, to feel good about feeling good. Dr. Harmon is a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon. Dr. Harmon values making patients feel welcomed, listened to, and respected. Dr. Harmon graduated with honors from Cornell University with a Bachelor of Science degree in molecular biology. Dr. Harmon earned his medical degree from the University of Cincinnati. Dr. Harmon underwent five years of extensive training in head at neck surgery at the prestigious residency program at the University of Cincinnati. Dr. Harmon then underwent focused fellowship training in cosmetic facial plastic surgery through the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (AAFPRS) with the world-renowned surgeon, Dr. Andrew Jacono, on Park Avenue in New York City. Request a Consultation Request a consultation with Dr. Harmon at Harmon Facial Plastic Surgery in Cincinnati. Visit our clinic. You will learn more about Dr. Harmon's credentials, style and approach. Build a relationship with our dedicated team. Do not stop at searching "plastic surgery near me." Get in touch with us today to learn more! Contact Us References Brin MF, Boodhoo TI, Pogoda JM, James LM, Demos G, Terashima Y, Gu J, Eadie N, Bowen BL. Safety and tolerability of onabotulinumtoxinA in the treatment of facial lines: a meta-analysis of individual patient data from global clinical registration studies in 1678 participants. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2009 Dec;61(6):961-70.e1-11. Camargo CP, Xia J, Costa CS, Gemperli R, Tatini MD, Bulsara MK, Riera R. Botulinum toxin type A for facial wrinkles. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2021 Jul 5;7(7):CD011301. Cohen JL, Scuderi N. Safety and Patient Satisfaction of AbobotulinumtoxinA for Aesthetic Use: A Systematic Review. Aesthet Surg J. 2017 May 1;37(suppl_1):S32-S44. Coté TR, Mohan AK, Polder JA, Walton MK, Braun MM. Botulinum toxin type A injections: adverse events reported to the US Food and Drug Administration in therapeutic and cosmetic cases. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2005 Sep;53(3):407-15. Guo Y, Lu Y, Liu T, Zhou Y, Yang P, Zhu J, Chen L, Yang Q. Efficacy and Safety of Botulinum Toxin Type A in the Treatment of Glabellar Lines: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized, Placebo-Controlled, Double-Blind Trials. Plast Reconstr Surg. 2015 Sep;136(3):310e-318e. Jia Z, Lu H, Yang X, Jin X, Wu R, Zhao J, Chen L, Qi Z. Adverse Events of Botulinum Toxin Type A in Facial Rejuvenation: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Aesthetic Plast Surg. 2016 Oct;40(5):769-77. Sundaram H, Signorini M, Liew S, Trindade de Almeida AR, Wu Y, Vieira Braz A, Fagien S, Goodman GJ, Monheit G, Raspaldo H; Global Aesthetics Consensus Group. Global Aesthetics Consensus: Botulinum Toxin Type A--Evidence-Based Review, Emerging Concepts, and Consensus Recommendations for Aesthetic Use, Including Updates on Complications. Plast Reconstr Surg. 2016 Mar;137(3):518e-529e.

A non-surgical brow lift can be achieved using medications such as Botox©. While not as effective or long-lasting as a surgical brow lift, a non-surgical brow lift can open the eyes up in a beautiful, natural-appearing way. Treatment of the brow with Botox© requires an understanding of the facial muscle anatomy. Moreover, the mechanism of achieving a brow lift non-surgically is commonly misunderstood by patients. This blog post seeks to help patients understand how a non-surgical brow lift with medications such as Botox© works. Seek a fellowship-trained facial plastic surgeon if you have concerns about your face or neck. A consultation with a well-trained, experienced injector is essential to determine whether a non-surgical brow lift is appropriate for you. Furthermore, it is important to seek not only a fellowship-trained but also a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon if you have aesthetic concerns about your face and/or neck. Only One Muscle Lifts the Eyebrows Only one muscle in the face lifts the brows. Called the frontalis muscle, it extends in a ribbon across the forehead. The frontalis muscle contributes to the horizontal wrinkles treated by placing medications such as Botox© in them and/or with skin resurfacing procedures. Multiple Muscles Pull the Eyebrows Down In contrast, multiple muscles depress, or pull down, the brows. The orbicularis oculi muscle surrounds the eye and contributes to eye closure in addition to depressing the brows. It is a portion of the muscle located off to the side of the eyes that is treated with medications such as Botox© for crow's feet. The paired corrugator supercilii muscles and the procedure muscle are strong muscles that create eleven lines between the eyebrows. They also depress the medial eyebrows. These muscles are also frequently treated with medications such as Botox©. A Non-Surgical Brow Lift Temporarily Weakens the Muscle(s) that Pull the Eyebrows Down Many believe that treatment of the forehead with Botox© will help lift the eyebrows, likely because the muscle is located above the eyebrows. This is a common misconception. In fact, it is treatment of the muscles that pull the eyebrows down, including the orbicularis oculi (crow's feet) and the corrugator muscles and procerus muscle (eleven lines) that can contribute to a non-surgical brow lift. This is because the muscle that lifts the brows will be stronger during the dynamic push-and-pull between muscles that lift the eyebrows and muscles and pull the eyebrows down. Trust Your Face to a Facial Plastic Surgeon It is important to seek a fellowship-trained specialist in plastic surgery of the face and neck when you have concerns about your face or neck. Why Choose Dr. Harmon The mission of Harmon Facial Plastic Surgery is to help people along their journey towards self-confidence, to feel good about feeling good. Dr. Harmon is a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon Dr. Harmon values making patients feel welcomed, listened to, and respected. Dr. Harmon graduated with honors from Cornell University with a Bachelor of Science degree in molecular biology. Dr. Harmon earned his medical degree from the University of Cincinnati. Dr. Harmon underwent five years of extensive training in head at neck surgery at the prestigious residency program at the University of Cincinnati. Dr. Harmon then underwent focused fellowship training in cosmetic facial plastic surgery through the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (AAFPRS) with the world-renowned surgeon, Dr. Andrew Jacono, on Park Avenue in New York City. Request a Consultation Request a consultation with Dr. Harmon at Harmon Facial Plastic Surgery in Cincinnati. Visit our clinic. You will learn more about Dr. Harmon's credentials, style, and approach. Build a relationship with our dedicated team. Do not stop searching "plastic surgery near me." Get in touch with us to learn more. Contact Us

One of the most common questions I receive when discussing an individual's desire for hyaluronic acid filler is whether the procedure is painful. That is a very reasonable question. After all, I am using needles and micro-cannulas to place this product in specific areas of the face. These areas can be sensitive. It is important to seek not only a fellowship-trained but also a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon if you have aesthetic concerns about your face and/or neck. Topical Anesthesia is Not Sufficiently Effective Many injectors utilize a suite of topical approaches to anesthesia, including topical creams or gels and vibratory devices. I have found that these approaches are helpful but inadequate to making placement of filler a comfortable experience. Regional Blocks Transform the Experience In addition to the above topical techniques, I take advantage of predictable facial anatomy to selectively anesthetize nerves that supply sensation to specific regions of the face. I use a tiny amount of local anesthesia injected within the vicinity of these nerves to generate broad numbness in the treatment area for the duration I need to place the filler. Performing these regional blocks also prevents the distortion of the treatment area with local anesthesia, which would make it difficult to achieve good aesthetic results. For example, I perform regional anesthesia prior to placement of hyaluronic acid filler in the lips. The lips are a very sensitive area of the body. However, injection of filler here need not be painful. There are two (2) pairs of nerves that supply most sensation to the lips. The first, the infra-orbital nerves, exit from the cheeks to the side of the nose and supply sensation to the upper lip. The second, the mental nerves, exit the jaw above and on either side of the chin and supply the sensation to the lower lip. Careful placement of local anesthesia to these locations can anesthetize the upper and lower lip in the areas where hyaluronic acid filler needs to be placed. Trust Your Face to a Facial Plastic Surgeon It is important to seek a double board-certified, fellowship-trained specialist in plastic surgery of the face and neck when you have concerns about your face or neck. Why Choose Dr. Harmon The mission of Harmon Facial Plastic Surgery is to help people along their journey towards self-confidence, to feel good about feeling good. Dr. Harmon is a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon. Dr. Harmon values making patients feel welcomed, listened to, and respected. Dr. Harmon graduated with honors from Cornell University with a Bachelor of Science degree in molecular biology. Dr. Harmon earned his medical degree from the University of Cincinnati. Dr. Harmon underwent five years of extensive training in head at neck surgery at the prestigious residency program at the University of Cincinnati. Dr. Harmon then underwent focused fellowship training in cosmetic facial plastic surgery through the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (AAFPRS) with the world-renowned surgeon, Dr. Andrew Jacono, on Park Avenue in New York City. Request a Consultation Request a consultation with Dr. Harmon at Harmon Facial Plastic Surgery in Cincinnati. Visit our clinic. You will learn more about Dr. Harmon's credentials, style and approach. Build a relationship with our dedicated team. Do not stop at searching "plastic surgery near me." Get in touch with us today to learn more! Contact Us

Botox© and other similar products can be placed in the upper lip to produce the effects of a non-surgical lip lift. The problem with this technique is that the effects tend to be minimal. There are also risks associated with asymmetry and temporary functional problems with the mouth. A surgical lip lift with or without filler (e.g., hyaluronic acid, fat) is usually a superior approach to addressing concerns about the upper lip. It is important to seek not only a fellowship-trained but also a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon if you have aesthetic concerns about your face and/or neck. The Use of Botox© or Similar Products Around the Mouth is Considered Off-Label The use of Botox© or similar products around the mouth is considered an off-label use because it is not an FDA-approved location. This is not necessarily the reason to not undergo treatment here. For example, the FDA did not approve Botox© for use in the forehead until 2017 though it had been used safely and off-label in this location for many years prior. The Effects of a Lip Flip Tend to Be Minimal Only 1 – 2 units of Botox© are placed at this location. Like a non-surgical brow lift, the effects of placing such a small number of units – by necessity for reasons that will be discussed below – usually demonstrates minimal results. Visible Asymmetry is Possible When only 1 – 2 units of Botox© are injected in a site there is a risk of an asymmetry in effectiveness, either due to random effects of the medication or due to asymmetric placement of the medication. This can be visible though it can be corrected with the placement of additional units of Botox© at follow up. Functional Problems of the Mouth are Possible Patients are generally counseled that they may have trouble using straws or pursing their lips for a few days after the medication begins to work. However, these functional problems can last for the entirety of the effect of the treatment, which usually ranges from three to four months in most individuals. A Non-Surgical Lip Flip is a Poor Reflection of the Benefits of a Surgical Lip Lift A surgical lip lift can not only elevate the red portion of the lip but also reduce the length of the lip between the base of the nose and the red lip, working above to the muscle. In contrast, Botox© is placed directly in the ring-shaped muscle around the mouth, which is the reason why the potential problems described above can occur. The surgical lip lift can simultaneously improve the height of the red lip and correct the length of the lip between the base of the nose and red lip but also increase lip pout without over-projecting the lip. Trust Your Face to a Facial Plastic Surgeon It is important to seek a fellowship-trained specialist in plastic surgery of the face and neck when you have concerns about your face or neck. Why Choose Dr. Harmon The mission of Harmon Facial Plastic Surgery is to help people along their journey towards self-confidence, to feel good about feeling good. Dr. Harmon is a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon. Dr. Harmon values making patients feel welcomed, listened to, and respected. Dr. Harmon graduated with honors from Cornell University with a Bachelor of Science degree in molecular biology. Dr. Harmon earned his medical degree from the University of Cincinnati. Dr. Harmon underwent five years of extensive training in head at neck surgery at the prestigious residency program at the University of Cincinnati. Dr. Harmon then underwent focused fellowship training in cosmetic facial plastic surgery through the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (AAFPRS) with the world-renowned surgeon, Dr. Andrew Jacono, on Park Avenue in New York City. Request a Consultation Request a consultation with Dr. Harmon at Harmon Facial Plastic Surgery in Cincinnati. Visit our clinic. You will learn more about Dr. Harmon's credentials, style, and approach. Build a relationship with our dedicated team. Do not stop at searching "plastic surgery near me." Get in touch with us to learn more! Contact Us

The treatment of the lower eyelid with Botox© or similar medications has become a trending topic on social media, including Tik Tok. Commonly referred to as "jelly roll" Botox©, this Food and Drug Administration (FDA) off-label treatment has aesthetic goals. But does its apparent increasing popularity mean it is a safe and effective treatment? See a similar discussion on the placement of Botox© or similar medications in a neck and back muscle called the trapezius. It is important to seek not only a fellowship-trained but also a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon if you have aesthetic concerns about your face and/or neck. "Jelly Roll" Botox Targets the Lower Eyelid This treatment targets the lower eyelid with Botox© or similar medications. The target muscle is the orbicularis oculi, which is a muscle that wraps around the eye and is composed of multiple parts delineated by how close the muscle fibers are to the upper and lower eyelid margins. The most lateral portion of the orbicularis oculi is targeted by Botox© or similar medications when the crow's feet are treated. In contrast, "jelly roll" Botox© targets the muscle at the lower eyelid near the margin of the lower eyelid. The Purpose of the Procedure is to Treat Bunching of the Lower Eyelid The purpose of this procedure is to reduce bunching of the orbicularis oculi muscle that can be exaggerated in certain individuals who demonstrate hyperactive muscle movement in the lower eyelid. This can be bothersome to some patients, especially when they smile. It can appear as if the muscle and skin are folded on themselves like an accordion and protruding beyond the eyelashes. Placement of Botox© or Similar Medications in the Orbicularis Oculi at the Lower Eyelid Has Important Safety Considerations There are important safety considerations with placement of Botox© or similar medications in the lower eyelid. First, the treatment is FDA off-label. As a result, its safety and effectiveness has not yet been official established by the United States (US) government. Second, the orbicularis oculi muscle has an important function in the lower eyelid in that its function is essential to maintain lower eyelid shape and in eye closure. Weakening of the muscle in this location can make the lower eyelid look saggy and overly rounded. It can also limit eye closure, which can lead to or exacerbate dry eye symptoms. Persistently dry eyes can then lead to vision problems. The above risks may not make treatment of this location Botox© or similar medications worthwhile at this time. Trust Your Face to a Facial Plastic Surgeon It is important to seek a fellowship-trained specialist in plastic surgery of the face and neck when you have concerns about your face or neck. Why Choose Dr. Harmon The mission of Harmon Facial Plastic Surgery is to help people along their journey towards self-confidence, to feel good about feeling good. Dr. Harmon is a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon Dr. Harmon values making patients feel welcomed, listened to, and respected. Dr. Harmon graduated with honors from Cornell University with a Bachelor of Science degree in molecular biology. Dr. Harmon earned his medical degree from the University of Cincinnati. Dr. Harmon underwent five years of extensive training in head at neck surgery at the prestigious residency program at the University of Cincinnati. Dr. Harmon then underwent focused fellowship training in cosmetic facial plastic surgery through the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (AAFPRS) with the world-renowned surgeon, Dr. Andrew Jacono, on Park Avenue in New York City. Request a Consultation Request a consultation with Dr. Harmon at Harmon Facial Plastic Surgery in Cincinnati. Visit our clinic. You will learn more about Dr. Harmon's credentials, style, and approach. Build a relationship with our dedicated team. Do not stop searching "plastic surgery near me." Get in touch with us to learn more. Contact Us

We at Harmon Facial Plastic Surgery in Cincinnati, Ohio are excited to announce that we are now offering Juvederm® Skinvive™, the first FDA-approved treatment for the improvement of skin smoothness and hydration in the cheeks using hyaluronic acid. Long popular worldwide, including Western Europe and Asia, this treatment is likely to become a beautiful complement to many other procedures, both surgical and non-surgical. Please read an earlier blog post for more information on the different depths hyaluronic acid filler can be placed. It is important to seek not only a fellowship-trained but also a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon if you have aesthetic concerns about your face and/or neck. Juvederm® Skinvive™ Has a Different Purpose Than All Other Hyaluronic Acid Fillers Whereas other hyaluronic acid filler products are used to increase volume in specific areas of the face, the purpose of Juvederm® Skinvive™ is to increase skin smoothness and hydration. The product is injected in microdroplets just below the top layer of skin, in the dermis. In contrast with hyaluronic acid filler placed on the skin, the hyaluronic acid placed deep to the skin retains water within the skin as opposed to drawing it out and away from the skin, an effect which is more pronounced in hot, dry climates. The Effects of Juvederm® Skinvive™ are Reported to be Longer-Lasting Than Topical Hyaluronic Acid According to the manufacturer, the effects can last as long as 6 months, much longer than the effects of applying hyaluronic acid filler to the skin daily. And, like the injection of other hyaluronic acid filler products in other locations and for different purposes, there is little-to-no downtime. Juvederm® Skinvive™ Can Compliment Other Non-Surgical and Surgical Procedures We are excited to explore how this new product can enhance your skincare regimen and complement the procedures we perform at Harmon Facial Plastic Surgery, including the extended deep plane facelift. Trust Your Face to a Facial Plastic Surgeon It is important to seek a fellowship-trained specialist in plastic surgery of the face and neck when you have concerns about your face or neck. Why Choose Dr. Harmon The mission of Harmon Facial Plastic Surgery is to help people along their journey towards self-confidence, to feel good about feeling good. Dr. Harmon is a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon Dr. Harmon values making patients feel welcomed, listened to, and respected. Dr. Harmon graduated with honors from Cornell University with a Bachelor of Science degree in molecular biology. Dr. Harmon earned his medical degree from the University of Cincinnati. Dr. Harmon underwent five years of extensive training in head at neck surgery at the prestigious residency program at the University of Cincinnati. Dr. Harmon then underwent focused fellowship training in cosmetic facial plastic surgery through the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (AAFPRS) with the world-renowned surgeon, Dr. Andrew Jacono, on Park Avenue in New York City. Request a Consultation Request a consultation with Dr. Harmon at Harmon Facial Plastic Surgery in Cincinnati. Visit our clinic. You will learn more about Dr. Harmon's credentials, style, and approach. Build a relationship with our dedicated team. Do not stop searching "plastic surgery near me." Get in touch with us to learn more. Contact Us

We at Harmon Facial Plastic Surgery are excited to announce that we are now offering Restylane® Eyelight™ hyaluronic acid filler at our practice! This Galderma product is FDA-approved for the tear troughs in patients with deep undereye hollows. Read an earlier blog post, Tear Trough Filler: An Explainer, for more information. Contact our office in Cincinnati, OH and schedule a consultation to determine whether you are a candidate for Restylane® Eyelight™! It is important to seek not only a fellowship-trained but also a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon if you have aesthetic concerns about your face and/or neck. Restylane® Eyelight™ Has a Long Record of Safety and Effectiveness Restylane® Eyelight™ is effectively Restylane-L, one of Galderma's earliest hyaluronic acid filler products. As a result, it has a long record of safety and effectiveness in the face and has been widely used FDA off-label in the tear troughs for many years prior to the recent approval by the FDA. Restylane® Eyelight™ is Effectively Restylane-L in a More Economical Form Restylane® Eyelight™ is effectively Restylane-L in a smaller vial. It is common for patients to require less than the 1 ml that is provided in a vial of Restylane-L. As a result, an effective treatment for undereye hollows is now available in a more economical form. Trust Your Face to a Facial Plastic Surgeon It is important to seek a fellowship-trained specialist in plastic surgery of the face and neck when you have concerns about your face or neck. Why Choose Dr. Harmon The mission of Harmon Facial Plastic Surgery is to help people along their journey towards self-confidence, to feel good about feeling good. Dr. Harmon is a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon Dr. Harmon values making patients feel welcomed, listened to, and respected. Dr. Harmon graduated with honors from Cornell University with a Bachelor of Science degree in molecular biology. Dr. Harmon earned his medical degree from the University of Cincinnati. Dr. Harmon underwent five years of extensive training in head at neck surgery at the prestigious residency program at the University of Cincinnati. Dr. Harmon then underwent focused fellowship training in cosmetic facial plastic surgery through the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (AAFPRS) with the world-renowned surgeon, Dr. Andrew Jacono, on Park Avenue in New York City. Request a Consultation Request a consultation with Dr. Harmon at Harmon Facial Plastic Surgery in Cincinnati. Visit our clinic. You will learn more about Dr. Harmon's credentials, style, and approach. Build a relationship with our dedicated team. Do not stop searching "plastic surgery near me." Get in touch with us to learn more. Contact Us

The treatment of the trapezius muscle with Botox© or similar medications has become a trending topic on social media, including Tik Tok. Commonly referred to as "Trap Tox" or "Barbie Tox," this FDA off-label treatment has primarily aesthetic goals with reported potential secondary functional benefits. In fact, treatment of the trapezius muscle with Botox® or similar medications has been popular in Soth Korea for many years. Please see an earlier blog post The Right to Beauty and the Development of Plastic Surgery in Brazil and South Korea for more information. It is important to seek not only a fellowship-trained but also a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon if you have aesthetic concerns about your face and/or neck. The Trapezius Muscle Extends Over the Neck, Shoulders, and Back The trapezius muscle is a pair of triangular muscles that fan over the neck, back, and shoulders. The muscle contributes to balance of the head and stability of the shoulder girdle. This muscle commonly tenses up, leading to neck and shoulder discomfort. It tapers from the neck to the shoulder, the height of which can make the neck appear shorter or longer, depending on its size. The Purpose of the Procedure is to Relieve Shoulder Stress and Make the Neck Appear Longer Botox© or similar medications is injected into the trapezius muscle on either side of the neck with the goal of weakening this limited area of the muscle around the neck. The purpose of this treatment is to reduce the fullness of this muscle around the neck, thereby making the neck appear longer. This purported effect is the reason the procedure is among the most popular aesthetic procedures performed in South Korea. Another reported benefit of this procedure is a reduction of muscle tension around the neck. Placement of Botox© or Similar Medications in the Trapezius Muscle Has Important Safety Considerations There are important safety considerations with placement of Botox© or similar medications in the trapezius muscle. First, the treatment is FDA off-label. As a result, its safety and effectiveness has not yet been officially established. Second, the trapezius muscle has important functions in stabilizing the neck and shoulders that could be affected by treatment of this muscle. Facial plastic surgeons encounter the trapezius muscle frequently in our head and neck surgery residency training when treating cancer. There is a nerve called the accessory nerve that supplies the signals for the trapezius muscle to move. This nerve and the trapezius muscle can sometimes be involved with head and neck cancer. The nerve and parts of the muscle near the neck need to be removed in these instances. A resultant non-functional trapezius muscle can lead to debilitating neck and shoulder dysfunction as well as shoulder pain. While the goal is to weaken only a small portion of the trapezius muscle near the neck to limit the potential functional sequelae of treatment, placement of Botox® or similar medications in the trapezius muscle does carry the above risk. Trust Your Face to a Facial Plastic Surgeon It is important to seek a fellowship-trained specialist in plastic surgery of the face and neck when you have concerns about your face or neck. Why Choose Dr. Harmon The mission of Harmon Facial Plastic Surgery is to help people along their journey towards self-confidence, to feel good about feeling good. Dr. Harmon is a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon Dr. Harmon values making patients feel welcomed, listened to, and respected. Dr. Harmon graduated with honors from Cornell University with a Bachelor of Science degree in molecular biology. Dr. Harmon earned his medical degree from the University of Cincinnati. Dr. Harmon underwent five years of extensive training in head at neck surgery at the prestigious residency program at the University of Cincinnati. Dr. Harmon then underwent focused fellowship training in cosmetic facial plastic surgery through the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (AAFPRS) with the world-renowned surgeon, Dr. Andrew Jacono, on Park Avenue in New York City. Request a Consultation Request a consultation with Dr. Harmon at Harmon Facial Plastic Surgery in Cincinnati. Visit our clinic. You will learn more about Dr. Harmon's credentials, style, and approach. Build a relationship with our dedicated team. Do not stop searching "plastic surgery near me." Get in touch with us to learn more. Contact Us