Timeline for Bridal Cosmetic Surgery: Part Two

In Part One of our Wedding Timeline, we discussed popular cosmetic surgery procedures and other treatments for the bride-to-be with some time on her hands. Even if the clock is ticking, however, there are still plenty of options available to make sure your face and skin are looking their best on the big day. Here are the top choices that involve minimal recovery time and nearly instant results:

Three Months to Two Weeks Until the Wedding

Fractora (Skin Rejuvenation): Whether you’re having a beachside bash or winter wonderland themed wedding, a smooth, glowing complexion is in style year-round. This revolutionary skin treatment uses radiofrequency to reduce wrinkles, improve complexion, and tighten skin with minimal downtime. It effectively improves the skin’s complexion, reduces wrinkles, and tightens the skin.

What to expect?

The treatment involves very little downtime, and patients begin to notice improved skin smoothness and tightness in just 2 weeks. Clients report experiencing redness for 1 to 3 days following the procedure, which can be soothed by applying healing ointment and a simple moisturizer. Results last for up to 3 months.

Botox: A popular option among MOTBs as well, Botox is a quick procedure that treats frown lines, horizontal forehead lines, crow’s feet, neck bands, and dimpling of the chin. It is the perfect choice for the mature bride looking to smooth fine lines.

What to expect?

Affectionately called our “lunchtime” procedure, Botox can take as little as 10 minutes, depending on the number of areas being treated. Using an ultrafine needle, patients will feel a small pinch. The area will look no different immediately after, as the Botox effect takes several days to start working. Once the muscle is relaxed, the skin begins to smooth itself out, and results last about 3 months.

One Month to Two Weeks Until the Wedding

Fraxel Dual/Restore Laser: Restore aging and sun-damaged skin to its original youthful glow with this advanced laser technology that can treat multiple areas during a single session. Often paired with other treatments such as a facelift or mini lift (which involve longer recovery times), results from a single Fraxel Laser treatment occur in about 1 week.

What to expect?

While most patients find a topical numbing cream sufficient, some would prefer not to feel any sensation at all. For these individuals, we have tailored a “Friendly” Fraxel Laser treatment that provides full comfort throughout the procedure.

Immediately after the Fraxel Laser treatment, the skin will feel slightly warm, become a little swollen, and appear browner, as if you’ve been out in the sun. Makeup can be worn immediately, and patients should expect a variable degree of swelling and peeling for at least 4 to 5 days. Because of this, we encourage clients to schedules appointments at least 1 to 2 weeks in advance of an important event.

Juvéderm: If you’re wishing you could hit the “refresh” button on your face, look no further. Juvéderm is made of Hyaluronic Acid, a naturally occurring substance that is present in human skin, soft tissue, and joints. It is often referred to as the “ground substance” and provides lubrication to joints and helps to maintain skin hydration. FDA Approved for correction of moderate to severe facial wrinkles and folds (such as nasolabial folds), it is also frequently used to add volume to areas such as:

 

• Skin creases: to smooth the skin
• Cheeks: to add volume to the “apples” and cheek bones
• Lips: to shape lips and fill lip lines
• Corners of the mouth: to correct a downturned or “sad mouth”
• Lower eyelids (tear trough groove): to fill hollow areas and correct a tired look
• Jawline: to minimize the appearance of jowls
• Chin creases: to improve the “witch’s chin”
• Upper eyelids: to correct hollow eyelids from previous surgery
• Nose: to add height to the bridge and smooth out a bump

What to expect?

Juvéderm causes the skin to stretch, which stimulates certain cells (fibroblasts) to make new collagen, thus improving appearance. The procedure takes about 10 to 30 minutes, and depending on personal preference, patients can choose to simply ice the area in advance or use topical or local anesthesia.

Redness and some bruising are common following the procedure; redness typically resolves within 1 to 2 days, whereas bruising can last for a few more days. With the use of cannulas (new needle technology), however, there is often no bruising at all. We encourage patients to schedule appointments at least 1 week in advance of an important event so as to allow any potential swelling and/or bruising to reduce.

Because it is naturally occurring, Juvéderm feels natural, looks natural, and lasts a long time as compared to other fillers. There are many areas you can use Juvederm fillers, so you should consult with your provider to determine your best treatment options.  Depending on your desired results, treatment area, and preference, there are a few forms to consider:

Lips:

• Juvéderm Ultra: typically lasts about 1 year
• Juvederm Volbella: typically lasts up to 1 year

Lines & Wrinkles

• Juvéderm Ultra Plus: typically lasts 1 to 1 ½ years
• Juvederm Vollure: typically lasts up to 18 months

Cheeks

• Juvederm Voluma: typically lasts up to 2 years

Just like your wedding, your facial cosmetic needs are unique. Set up a personalized consultation to discuss the best treatment options for you. We’d be honored to be part of your big day!