Frequently Asked Questions
What is Botox?
Botox is a purified protein which is injected with tiny needles just under the skin surface into the muscles of the face to cause them to relax their tug on the skin creating a smoother, fresher, younger look.
What are Fillers?
Fillers such as Surgiderm are made of a naturally occurring substance in the skin called Hyaluronic Acid which normally hydrates the skin and gives it volume. Over time the face loses Hyaluronic Acid and the skin starts to sag and form wrinkles and folds. Fillers are injected with tiny needles just under the superficial layer of skin into the dermis to replace the lost Hyaluronic Acid and restore volume and shape.
What is a Chemical Peel?
A Chemical Peel such as Easy TCA uses a nontoxic chemical Trichloroacetic Acid (TCA) to penetrate the superficial to medium layers of skin causing them to separate and peel off. The new regenerated skin underneath appears smoother, less wrinkled and more even in both colour and tone than the old skin.
What is the difference between Botox, Fillers and Chemical Peels?
Botox is a purified protein which is injected into certain muscles of the face to cause them to relax. Fillers such as Surgiderm are made of Hyaluronic Acid which is injected into the dermal skin layer to restore lost volume and shape. Chemical Peels use a nontoxic chemical Trichloroacetic Acid which is applied to the skin surface in order to regenerate new skin which is smoother and more even in both tone and colour.
Can the different products be used together?
As each of the products is applied to a different layer of skin, the products may be used in combination (in the same session) to create an optimal result.
Are the procedures painful?
A topical anaesthetic Emla cream is usually applied before Botox and Filler injections. Dental block injections are used for lip treatment. Both Botox and Filler injections use tiny needles which may produce a slight stinging sensation. A Chemical Peel is gently applied to the surface of the skin and may produce a warm tingling sensation. However, the procedures are not usually described as painful.
How quickly will I see results?
Results with fillers such as Surgiderm are instantaneous. Results with Botox are noticed 2-3 days after the procedure and reach their maximum effect by 2 weeks. Results with Chemical Peels are usually noticed after one week.
How long do the results last?
Fillers such as Surgiderm last between 9-12 months, Botox lasts around 4 months and the effects of a Chemical Peel may last well over a year.
How often will I need to repeat the procedures?
It is important to remember that these procedures help prevent further deterioration related to age. I typically invite clients for a free consultation every 4-6 months to assess the need for new treatment and to maintain a youthful look.
How long do the procedures take?
The procedures usually take only minutes to perform.
May I go back to work on the same day?
Yes, you may typically return to work immediately following a procedure. In fact, many clients have a procedure performed during their lunch break!
Are there any common complications?
Side effects and allergic-type reactions are extremely rare.
Is it expensive?
The cost of procedures at The Harris Clinic are very reasonable. Please refer to the Price List on this site