The Risks of Unapproved Fat-Dissolving Injections: Ethical Solutions from Bruno | Brown Plastic Surgery

Understanding the dangers of fat-dissolving injections

In the quest for achieving the ideal physique, many individuals are turning to cosmetic procedures such as fat-dissolving injections to sculpt and contour specific areas. However, the recent warning issued by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) sheds light on the potential hazards associated with unauthorized fat-dissolving injections. The FDA has received reports of severe side effects, including scarring, infections, and skin deformities, from individuals using unapproved injections. We aim to explore the risks posed by these non-FDA-approved treatments and emphasize the safe and ethical methods employed by Bruno|Brown Plastic Surgery to ensure clients’ well-being and desired results.

Understanding Fat-Dissolving Injections

According to the Food and Drug Administration, fat-dissolving injections, also known as lipolysis injections, are nonsurgical procedures designed to break down fat cells beneath the skin. While FDA-approved injections, such as KYBELLA®, have undergone rigorous evaluation for safety and effectiveness, unauthorized products with names like Aqualyx, Lipodissolve, Lipo Lab, and Kabelline pose significant risks. Common ingredients found in the non-FDA-approved fat-dissolving injectables including phosphatidylcholine (PPC) and sodium deoxycholate (DC) have been linked to adverse reactions.

Here at Bruno | Brown Plastic Surgery, we emphasize safe and ethical procedures with our valued patients. Our patient’s well-being and safety is our main priority, while also delivering the highest quality results.

Risks and Adverse Reactions:

Reports to the FDA have detailed adverse reactions from consumers, including permanent scars, serious infections, skin deformities, cysts, and painful knots. Some individuals received injectionsfrom unlicensed personnel at clinics or med spas, while others purchased the unapproved products online, attempting self-administration. The potential dangers escalate when considering improper injection techniques, which can lead to scarring, skin infections, and severe complications.

When it comes to injectables, prioritizing your safety and well-being is paramount – it’s crucial to go to licensed professionals, like those at Bruno|Brown Plastic Surgery in Washington, DC, for expert care and optimal results.

FDA-Approved Alternatives

According to NBC News, KYBELLA®, a prescription drug approved by the FDA, stands as the sole fat-dissolving injectable authorized for reducing chin fat in adults. The FDA stresses that this  should only be administered by healthcare professionals. Bruno|Brown Plastic Surgery aligns with FDA recommendations, emphasizing the importance of FDA-approved injections administered by trained and licensed professionals.

KYBELLA® stands out as the inaugural FDA-approved injectable crafted for addressing localized fat deposits, notably fullness beneath the chin. Our skilled practitioners at Bruno | Brown Plastic Surgery also recommend this innovative treatment as it offers a more meticulous and precise approach compared to alternative techniques. Prior to initiating the treatment, our experienced doctors conduct a thorough examination of the targeted areas to assess suitability, ensuring a tailored cosmetic approach that aligns with your specific aesthetic objectives.

We also administer PRP therapy which can be combined with collagen inducing treatments like micro-needlinglaser skin resurfacing, and/or other injectables such as Juvederm and Botox to best target a patient’s unique issues and thus achieve the final goal of younger looking skin. PRP can also be used to help improve thinning hair through a series of injections in the scalp.

Dermal fillers can restore your facial volume and create smoother skin. Fillers are a non-invasive alternative to surgical procedures, such as a facelift. Dermal fillers are available in many different formulas, and the exact approach we will use depends on your facial rejuvenation goals.

We use a range of Juvederm products, including:

  • SKINVIVE™
  • Volbella®
  • Vollure™
  • Voluma™
  • Volux™
  • Volux™ XC

For injectable procedures, it is imperative to consult with a certified and licensed professional to ensure the utmost care and the highest quality result.

Safe Practices at Bruno | Brown Plastic Surgery

At Bruno | Brown Plastic Surgery, client safety and ethical practices are our top priority. Our expert surgeons prioritize comprehensive consultations to understand clients’ desires and tailor procedures accordingly. Unlike the risks associated with unapproved injections, our team ensures the correct number and location of injections, proper needle placement, and a safe administration technique.

As the FDA warns against the dangers of unauthorized fat-dissolving injections, it is crucial to prioritize safety and choose reputable practices. Bruno | Brown Plastic Surgery remains committed to providing clients with FDA-approved procedures, ensuring optimal results without compromising health. In the pursuit of aesthetic enhancements, let’s prioritize well-being, choosing the path of safety, and ethical practices.

Looking to learn more about Bruno | Brown Plastic Surgery’s injectable procedures? Contact us today!

Rewind the Clock with Botox in Washington, DC

Fight the Signs of Aging with Botox in DC at Bruno | Brown Plastic Surgery

As we age, our faces develop wrinkles and lines from the various facial expressions we make over our lifetime. Botox is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures in the United States to reduce the appearance of these age marks.

Botox works by injecting botulinum toxin into the muscle to block its nerve signals. By blocking this signal, the muscle is not able to contract. This relaxed muscle diminishes unwanted facial wrinkles by preventing movement so that your face remains smoother.

Welcome to our blog! If you’re looking for Botox before and after photos from our plastic surgeons, please click here.

What is preventative Botox?

Botox is most effective when used as a preventative treatment. If a patient starts to get Botox before developing deep lines or wrinkles, they are less likely to develop them in the future because the skin will be protected by low muscle movement. The less movement of the skin and muscle, the less wrinkle.

If a patient waits to start Botox once deep lines and wrinkles have already settled in, the Botox is not only working to prevent future wrinkles, it is also working to lessen the appearance of current wrinkles. Listen to what Dr. Brown has to say about preventative Botox in Washington, DC:

What are the benefits of Botox?

Botox can help your aesthetic goals in a number of ways. Here are a few:

  • Botox is a minimally invasive, quick procedure. Botox injections typically take around 5 to 15 minutes, depending on how much your doctor is injecting. The procedure consists of multiple small injections, which most patients say they don’t feel. No downtime is required for this procedure.
  • Quick results. You should start to notice your Botox kicking in within the first few days. By the end of the first week, you should both feel and see a difference in your skin. By the end of the first month, you should see full results.
  • Botox enhances your natural beauty. Botox helps bring back a smoother, more youthful appearance to help highlight and enhance your natural beauty!
  • Lasting Results. Botox can be a great investment and prevent the need for more invasive cosmetic procedures further down the line.

What does the process of getting DC Botox look like?

You and your doctor will discuss your areas of concern and what will work best for you specific anatomy and facial structure. From there, the doctor will define the injection points and begin injecting using a fine needle. Following the injection, the doctor or nurse may use an ice pack to relieve any irritation.

Swelling, redness, or bruising surrounding the injection points is normal and will likely resolve within a week. Depending on the patient, it can take anywhere from one week to up to one month to see full effectiveness of the Botox. Over this period, you will start to feel the product slowly start to work and settle in.

Botox can last anywhere from 3 to 6 months. Depending on your goals, you may want to consider a maintenance schedule to stay on top of wrinkle prevention. Most of our Washington, DC Botox maintenance patients return every 3-4 months.

If you’re interested in finding the best Botox in Washington, DC, Bruno | Brown can help. Schedule your consultation today!

Most Frequently Asked Questions About Botox: DC Edition

What You Need to Know About Botox: DC Edition

Botox is a minimally invasive cosmetic procedure that uses Botulinum Toxin to smooth out the skin and help prevent wrinkles and lines on your face.

Want to see what a Botox procedure looks like? Watch our very own Dr. Brown perform Botox on a patient.

How does Botox work?

Injections of the botulinum toxin block the nerve signals to the muscle in which it is injected. Without a signal, the muscle is not able to contract. The end result is diminished unwanted facial wrinkles. In simpler terms, Botox is injected into your skin and helps prevent movement so that your face remains smoother.

What are the benefits of Botox in DC?

The benefits of Botox are many; here are just a few!Dr. Brown doing botox on a patient

  • A minimally invasive, quick procedure. Botox injections typically take about 5 to 15 minutes, depending on how much Botox you are having injected. The procedure is a small injection, which most patients say they don’t feel. This procedure doesn’t have any downtime afterward and will have extremely fast results.
  • Quick results. Within the first 3 days, you should start to see results from your Botox. By the end of the first week, you should see smoother skin.
  • Enhances your natural beauty. Botox helps bring back a smoother, more youthful appearance to help highlight and enhance your natural beauty!
  • Lasting Results. Botox can be a great investment, lasting up to 8 months for some patients!

Does Botox hurt?

The botox injection is like a small prick, and many patients say they don’t really feel the injection. One of Bruno | Brown Plastic Surgery’s DC Botox patients was asked this question, and they replied:

“BOTOX doesn’t hurt, I really didn’t feel it.”

Another Botox DC reviewer said:

“I’ve been getting Botox from Bruno | Brown Plastic Surgery for several years. I love that they ask me so many questions and really have me move my face/forehead before injecting. I’ve gone to places that clearly do the same thing for everyone, but I feel like it comes out perfectly every time here.”

How often should you get Botox?Before and After Botox

This really depends on each person! On average, Botox results last about 4-6 months in certain areas; some people burn it off quicker. Most of our Washington, DC BOTOX patients return every 3-4 months. However, some people prefer to go often to keep their face as smooth as possible. If you are unsure, we recommend having a consultation with Dr. Bruno or Dr. Brown so that they can help you figure out how often you should be getting injections.

Interested in learning more about Botox in Washington DC? Click HERE to schedule a consultation at Bruno | Brown Plastic Surgery today!

Your Washington DC Botox Guide

Botox is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures to have done in the United States. If you are thinking about getting plastic surgery done to look younger or have smoother skin, Botox may be right for you!

Plus, this coming Wednesday is Botox Day! Make sure you take part in the buy one get one gift certificates happening on alle.com!

What is Botox?

Botox is the cosmetic form of botulinum toxin and is an injectable that temporarily reduces or eliminates fine lines and wrinkles on the face. Botox is a minimally invasive procedure and requires no downtime following treatment. This procedure is extremely popular and suits a wide array of patients’ needs.

What Happens During a Botox Appointment in Washington DC?

During the treatment, small injections of Botox are inserted into the skin to smooth out lines and wrinkles.Botox in DC

Botox can target a number of areas on the face and can benefit them all greatly. This includes but is not limited to improving the look of forehead wrinkles, smoothing out crow’s feet, restoring the elasticity of the vertical lines between your eyebrows, and reducing the lines in the folds between your nose and lips. Overall, the Botox procedure is quick and only lasts about 15 minutes.

What to Expect From Botox in Washington DC

It’s important to set reasonable expectations for your botox procedure, as is the same will all plastic surgery. Botox can provide amazing results, but it’s important to remember that it will not completely change your look. Setting these realistic goals should be discussed with your doctor beforehand, to ensure you will get the results you wish to see out of your treatment.

Why You Should Use Bruno | Brown Plastic Surgery for Botox in Washington DCTop DC Plastic Surgeons and Botox

While Botox is a quick procedure, it is vital that you consult with an experienced medical professional before undergoing treatment. The doctors at Bruno | Brown Plastic Surgery have been advising and assisting patients with achieving their facial goals for years and would be happy to welcome you into their office for treatment. Below are some reviews from our amazing patients.

“I am so happy with the results. I couldn’t have asked for a better outcome. Everyone who sees me is amazed at the fantastic job you did.”— Diane

“From the moment I walked in the door I had such a great experience! Everyone I spoke with was super friendly and very knowledgeable. I felt like I was heard and all the services I’ve had so far (2 visits in now) have been top notch! Zara has been wonderful! I highly recommend this place! I did a ton of research before choosing Bruno Brown Plastic Surgery and I’m so glad I finally went!”— Jessica S.

“Your professionalism and caring nature for your patients is a gift. I’m grateful you’re helping me “regain” myself. Your staff is class ‘A’!” — Anonymous

If you’re considering getting Botox done in DC, schedule a consultation with Bruno | Brown Plastic Surgery here or call us at 301-215-5955.

Springtime Rejuvenation: 20% OFF Injectables!

Treat yourself to 20% off* injectables for first time patients!

It’s that time of the year: spring cleaning! Make treating yourself to 20% off injectables part of your to-do list this season by indulging in Botox, filler, or SkinVive.

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*This special must be redeemed by May 31st, 2024. Special only applicable for first-time patients. Form must be filled out to receive the discount.*

Are you considering Botox in DC?

Getting botox in DCBotox is the cosmetic form of botulinum toxin that is a minimally invasive procedure that requires no downtime and helps improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. In fact, it was one of the most popular minimally invasive procedures in 2018 according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.

While this procedure is relatively simple, it’s important to understand what to expect before having this procedure done.

What to expect from a Botox procedure in DC and some of the benefits

It’s important to set your expectations for this procedure. Botox can provide fantastic results that offer a more youthful look, but it’s important to note that it will not completely change your overall appearance. This can be discussed with your doctor beforehand so that the two of you can discuss your goals and what can be achieved from this procedure.

During the appointment, small injections of Botox are made into the skin smooth out lines and restore elasticity. The results can last up to four months with a single treatment or for longer-lasting results follow-up treatments can be scheduled.

Botox can target a number of areas and improve the look of forehead wrinkles, restore the elasticity of the vertical lines between your eyebrows, smooth out crow’s feet, and reduce the lines in the folds between your nose and lips. The procedure is quick, only lasting about 10-15 minutes, so you can stop by on a lunch break without missing much of your day.

Why you should turn to an experienced physician for Botox in DC

While Botox may seem quick and easy, you will want to consult with an experienced and well-trained medical professional. The doctors at Bruno | Brown Plastic Surgery have been advising patients on how to achieve their goals and performing this procedure for years with impressive results. If you’re considering Botox in DC, reach out to our doctors and we can come up with a plan for you.

Schedule your Botox appointment, by contacting Bruno | Brown Plastic Surgery today.

 

If you’re sick of fine lines and wrinkles, consider Botox in the Washington, DC area

Botox in DC: your solution for fine lines

Washington DC BotoxOne of the most popular cosmetic procedures in the United States, Botox can smooth crow’s feet and the appearance of forehead wrinkles, and reduce the lines in the folds between the nose and lips.

What are the benefits of Botox?

  • Restored elasticity of vertical lines between the eyebrows
  • Reduction of lines in the folds between the nose and lips
  • Smoothing of crow’s feet (lines around the corners of the eyes)
  • Reduced appearance of forehead wrinkles

One Washington, DC resident’s experience with Botox

Botox, the cosmetic form of botulinum toxin, is used to help slow down the signs of aging as well as smooth existing skin wrinkles. We spoke with one Bruno | Brown patient about her experience with Botox:

What was your experience like at Bruno | Brown compared to other places?
The med spa put a lot of injections in a few places, when Bruno | Brown used a little in a lot of places. Dr. Bruno kept asking me to move my face to really target the lines. By doing it this way the look is much more natural; you don’t get this weird one eyebrow higher than the other.

I’ve also never gotten a headache from them when at the med spa I would always get a headache.

I got a droopy eyelid at the med spa once, I had to actually change how I do my eyebrow makeup to make them even because the placement changed so much. Bruno | Brown also said I could go back if there was a problem, and I probably would do that if there was an issue. There’s a lot of security in that.

The results were just so natural, everything just smoothed out.

Read the full interview here >

Botox procedure and recovery in DC

Botox treatment usually only takes between 10-15 minutes, and there is no recovery time. You’ll see results that can last between 4-6 months in certain areas. You may have some minor swelling or pain at the injection site, but this subsides almost immediately after the initial injection.

Botox should be administered by a trained and experienced medical professional, such as the doctors at Bruno | Brown Plastic Surgery. Someone with limited experience giving Botox could possibly make the injections too deep, too low, or in the wrong spot. This could cause negative side effects, like droopy eyelids or a “frozen look”.

Contact Bruno | Brown Plastic Surgery today to schedule your Botox appointment.