Deep TreatmentTo make a significant and permanent improvement in the appearance of the skin, a deep treatment into the dermis is preferable. In the past, the only way to effectively address the deeper layers of the skin (the dermis), was to first remove the surface of the skin (the epidermis) and then continue lasering deeper into the dermis. This is called resurfacing because it removes the entire surface of the skin in order to then penetrate to the level of the dermis. As you might imagine, this treatment has the potential for serious scarring, permanent discoloration of the skin, an extended downtime and lots of discomfort.
Fraxel Provides Significant ResultsThough an admittedly crude analogy, the way fraxel laser works is somewhat similar to the method for aerating a lawn. Instead of stripping away the entire epidermis like the older resurfacing lasers, the fraxel creates a series of fractionated (hence the name, fraxel), microscopic laser "holes" in the epidermis that penetrate to the level of the dermis. A treatment with the fraxel leaves much of the epidermis intact. This facilitates much faster healing, dramatically diminishes risks and complications, but still addresses the need to treat the dermis to achieve significant results. These "holes" are technically known as microthermal zones (mtzs). These mtzs are essentially tiny vertical columns of epidermis and underlying dermis that have been treated with the laser. The depth and density of the mtzs can be adjusted by the physician according to the condition being treated, the degree of skin pigmentation, and the duration of downtime that the patient can accept.
Topical AnestheticThe treatment is mildly painful. To minimize patient discomfort, rio grande dermatology uses a very powerful topical numbing cream that is applied an hour before the treatment. We also offer the option of an oral prescription medication to help the patient relax during the procedure.
What to ExpectAfter the treatment, the patient can expect a moderate degree of swelling and redness of the treated areas for 3-4 days. There is an additional 3-day period with a moderate degree of skin scaling and flaking. About a week after a fraxel laser treatment, the affected area is usually a bit pink for a week or two before returning to normal skin color. Depending on the condition being treated, rio grande dermatologists usually advise 3 to 4 treatments each, separated by 3 to 4 weeks.
Minimal Side EffectsComplications are rare, but include mild to moderate discomfort during the treatment. Some patients have mild soreness of the treated area for up to 24 hours. There is a slight chance of developing an acne-like rash during the healing phase, but we ordinarily prescribe a short course of an oral acne medication to prevent this occurrence. Unwanted pigmentation change of the treated area is a very rare complication.
Fraxel AftercareAt rio grande dermatology, prices are dependent on the size of the region being treated. Please contact us with any questions about fraxel laser treatments.
V-Beam Laser
V-Beam Laser Selectively TargetsThe principle by which the v-beam laser works is quite simple. The wavelength of the v-beam's laser energy is only absorbed by red blood cells flowing inside of capillaries and veins. The laser, therefore, is not absorbed by other structures in the skin, such as the epidermis, the dermis, hair follicles or the pigment melanin. This means the laser selectively targets the unwanted veins and/or capillaries, without influencing or damaging other components of the skin.
15 to 20 Minute TreatmentOne treatment is often all that's necessary to eradicate unwanted veins, but in some cases 2, or even 3, treatments may be necessary depending on the extent of the problem being treated. Varicose veins cannot be treated effectively with the v-beam laser. At rio grande dermatolgy, the v-beam treatment is very quick, typically requiring only about 15 to 20 minutes. Discomfort is mild to moderate.
What to ExpectAfter a v-beam treatment, the patient can expect to experience some bruising of the treated areas. Depending upon how aggressively the patient desires the treatment to be administered, the bruising can last up to 2 weeks. With gentle treatments, the bruising can be very mild and resolve over a weekend. There is a direct relationship between the degree of results and the degree of bruising. The more aggressive the treatment, the more severe the bruising, but the better the results. Outside of bruising that should be expected, other complications are quite rare. Discoloration of the treated region, particularly excessive brown pigmentation can sometimes occur when treating leg veins of individuals with darker skin.
Laser Hair Removal
Minimal Risk of Infection
Increased Speed and Accuracy
Reduced Skin Irritation
Non-Invasive
Larger Areas Can Be Treated
Highly Precise to Focus on the Hair Follicle While Minimally Affecting the Surrounding Skin
Lightsheer Duet Is a Revolutionary Vacuum-Assist Technology with Dramatically Increased Spot Size to 22 X 35 Mm. It Includes Two Optimal Wavelength 800 Nm Diode Hair Removal Systems on One Versatile Platform. The Lightsheer Duet Enables Treatment for Backs and Legs Comfortably in Only 15 Minutes, Making Hair Removal Comfortable, Without Anesthetics and Gels. Larger Spot Size Enables Greater Depth of Penetration, for Improved Absorption of Energy at the Target Follicle.
No Topical Anesthetic Required
Eliminates Prep Time
Reduces Treatment Times Up to 75%
Energy Delivery Is More Efficient
Lower Fluence Levels Required
Ensures Comfortable Procedure
Facial Veins
V-Beam Laser Selectively TargetsThe principle by which the v-beam laser works is quite simple. The wavelength of the v-beam's laser energy is only absorbed by red blood cells flowing inside of capillaries and veins. The laser, therefore, is not absorbed by other structures in the skin, such as the epidermis, the dermis, hair follicles or the pigment melanin. This means the laser selectively targets the unwanted veins and/or capillaries, without influencing or damaging other components of the skin.
15 to 20 Minute TreatmentOne treatment is often all that's necessary to eradicate unwanted veins, but in some cases 2, or even 3, treatments may be necessary depending on the extent of the problem being treated. Varicose veins cannot be treated effectively with the v-beam laser. At rio grande dermatolgy, the v-beam treatment is very quick, typically requiring only about 15 to 20 minutes. Discomfort is mild to moderate.
What to ExpectAfter a v-beam treatment, the patient can expect to experience some bruising of the treated areas. Depending upon how aggressively the patient desires the treatment to be administered, the bruising can last up to 2 weeks. With gentle treatments, the bruising can be very mild and resolve over a weekend. There is a direct relationship between the degree of results and the degree of bruising. The more aggressive the treatment, the more severe the bruising, but the better the results. Outside of bruising that should be expected, other complications are quite rare. Discoloration of the treated region, particularly excessive brown pigmentation can sometimes occur when treating leg veins of individuals with darker skin.
Cosmetic
Latisse
Lash Solution Is Easy to ApplyPatients apply latisse solution themselves in the comfort of their own homes. Every night, after washing your face, simply apply latisse to one of the supplied disposable applicators and draw it across the skin at the base of your upper eyelashes. Blot any excess, throw out the applicator, and repeat for the other eye. That's it! It's like applying liquid eyeliner. Enhanced eyelash growth after 4 weeks; dramatic results after 16 weekseffects start at 4 weeks with dramatic results apparent after 16 weeks. If you continue to apply the solution each night and follow all directions, your eyelashes will show real measurable growth. As the treatment progresses, you'll begin to see changes in length, thickness and darkness gradually. After week 16, the full effects will be visible to you – and others! Results continue with continued use.
Eyelash Solution Has Minimal Side EffectsThe most common side effects after using latisse solution an itching sensation in the eyes and or eye redness were reported in only approximately 4% of patients. Some users then found that these irritations went away once they became accustomed to the product or began applying it properly. Latisse solution may cause other less common side effects, typically occuring either on the skin close to the application location or in the eyes. These include skin darkening (may be reversible with discontinuation of use), eye irritation, eye dryness, and redness of eyelids. Latisse is manufactured by allergan, whose ophthalmic pharmaceuticals division has a long history as a global leader in the eyecare industry.
Lash Growth Treatment Requires a Doctor's PrescriptionLatisse is available by prescription only. Patients with some pre-existing conditions may require closer supervision to ensure safety. Rio grande dermatology's longstanding familiarity with this and other allergan products make our doctors a good choice for prescribing and monitoring the use of this treatment. If you would like to be examined for a latisse prescription, please contact us. Rio grande dermatology is a leading board certified dermatologist and cosmetic service practice in rio rancho, new mexico, just at the edge of albuquerque and serving the albuquerque area.
Restylane
Hyaluronic Acid Provides VolumeRestylane and perlane are medications composed of hyaluronic acid (ha). Ha is a substance that is naturally present in high quantities in human skin. Ha and collagen are the two substances that provide the most volume and substance to the dermal layer of the skin. There are a number of other ha filler products that we offer at rio grande dermatology. During your consultation with the physician, we will mutually determine which product is best for your specific needs and tailor the treatment to you. In our experience, rio grande dermatology feels that restylane is a bit "bigger" and "stiffer" than juvederm, which is desirable in cases of particularly deep lines or patients desiring full lips.
Quick ProcedureThe 10 to 20 minute procedure requires a series of injections of the filler into the desired treatment areas. Prior to the injections, a topical anesthetic cream (numbing cream) is applied to the skin to diminish the discomfort of the injections. In some instances, particularly for injection of the lips, anesthetic injections similar to those a dentist would use are administered to completely numb the treated areas, rendering the filler injections painless.
Minimal Side EffectsPotential side effects, in addition to the moderate degree of discomfort at the time of the injection, include some additional dull pain at the treated areas after the treatment for 1 to 4 days. Bruising can sometimes occur, though this is unusual, and can last from 2 to 7 days. Swelling of the treated area is very common for a few days after the treatment. The lips, in particular, are an area in which the swelling can be most severe, sometimes resulting in an overly puffy appearance of the lips that can last for a few days.
Last for 6 to 12 MonthsOrdinarily, once the filler has "settled-in," which takes about a week, the product can be expected to last for a minimum of 6 months, but in many instances will last 9 to 12 months.
Botox
How It WorksThe mechanism by which botox diminishes unwanted facial lines is very simple. Botox weakens, or if desired, can completely paralyze unnecessary facial muscles. For example, the main reason that people have lines between their eyebrows is that the muscles in the region, when contracted, squeeze the skin into deep creases. Contracting these muscles is often done unconsciously or during intense concentration, but over time, can result in deeply ingrained lines that can create an outward appearance of anger. A few botox injections into this area can cause a weakening of the muscles so that when a person concentrates, there is much less, if any, squeezing of the brow muscles. The result is a more approachable, friendly and relaxed appearance.
Botox for the ForeheadIn addition to the muscles that squeeze the brows together, there are a number of other regions on the face that can be treated with botox. For instance, the forehead is an area that is particularly responsive to botox. The horizontal lines that many people develop over time can be reduced or completely eradicated. If desired, rio grande dermatology can create a slight arching and lifting of the brows when treating the forehead with botox.
Botox and Crow's FeetCrow's feet are also very successfully treated with botox. These lines often develop over time from squinting or smiling. Small amounts of botox injected into the muscles in this area allows an individual to continue to smile fully, but minimizes squinting and creasing of the skin adjacent to eyes. There are a few other very specialized areas on the face that can be injected with botox, including down-turned corners of the mouth to create an elevation in this region, and lower eyelids for excessively puffy skin.
Lasts 4 to 6 MonthsOn average, the effects of a botox treatment last 4 months. Some patients who receive lower doses or have more powerful facial muscles may only experience 3 months of improvement. On the other hand, rio grande dermatology has many patients who experience the effects of their botox treatments for up to 6 months. Botox takes up to a week to take effect after the treatment session, but most people start to see results as early as 2 or 3 days afterward.
Side Effects Extremely RareSide effects of botox are very, very rare. The most common complication is bruising at the site of the injection, though this is very uncommon. Rio grande dermatology is exceptionally careful when injecting the botox to minimize the potential for bruising. We are almost always able to see and/or feel any small veins beneath the skin so that we do not inadvertently injure these small blood vessels when performing the injections. Other very rare complications include brow drooping or lid drooping. Both of these conditions are usually quickly reversible with prescription medications. Headache is also a very rare side effect, but has been shown not to be due to the botox, but rather to the stress of being poked with a needle.
Botox at Rio Grande DermatologyRio grande dermatology uses ultra-fine needles speaking of needles, rio grande dermatology's technique places great emphasis on patient comfort. We use the smallest needle available (31 gauge). Additionally, though most facilities will utilize the same needle for many injections on a given patient, rio grande dermatology prefers to use each needle for only one injection. These ultra-fine needles become dull after only one or two uses so we therefore use a fresh needle for each and every injection to minimize patient discomfort. Our needles are in fact so small and sharp that some patients don't even realize that an injection has taken place.
Botox Pricing at Rio Grande DermatologyIn terms of price, we charge by the unit. And, at a mere 13 per unit, rio grande dermatology is among the least expensive in the albuquerque area. We do not charge "by the region," because everyone's face is created differently, patients have different goals, and therefore require dramatically different quantities of botox. We tailor each patient's treatment to accommodate their specific aesthetic desires and their discretionary finances.
Platinum Plus ProviderRio grande dermatology is able to offer such low rates because we are recognized as a platinum plus provider for botox. This prestigious classification is due to the fact that we administer much more botox than other providers in the region and are recognized for our proficiency by allergan, the manufacturer of botox.
Patient SatisfactionWe are supremely committed to patient satisfaction. Rio grande dermatology knows that our patients are knowledgeable consumers and have many options in terms of where they obtain their cosmetic services. We are honored to be the choice of so many patients and we appreciate the favorable word of mouth referrals that have made us so successful. If a patient is ever less than fully satisfied with his or her treatment, every effort will be made to amend the situation. Touch-ups are almost always free.
Juvederm Ultra and Juvederm Ultra Plus
Hyaluronic Acid Naturally Present in SkinJuvederm is a medication composed of hyaluronic acid (ha). Ha is a substance that is naturally present in high quantities in human skin. Ha and collagen are the two substances that provide the most volume and substance to the dermal layer of the skin. There are a number of other ha filler products that we offer at rio grande dermatology, including restylane and perlane. During your consultation with the dermatologist, we will mutually determine which product is best for your specific needs and tailor the treatment to you. In our experience, we feel that juvederm is a softer and more "natural looking" filler than restylane or perlane.
Quick ProcedureAt rio grande dermatology, the 10 to 20 minute procedure requires a series of injections of the filler into the desired treatment areas. Prior to the injections, a topical anesthetic lotion (numbing cream) is applied to the skin to diminish the discomfort of the injections. In some instances, particularly for the lips, rio grande dermatologists will use anesthetic injections similar to those that a dentist would use. They are administered to completely numb the areas to be treated, rendering the filler injections painless.
Minimal Side EffectsPotential side effects, in addition to the moderate degree of discomfort at the time of the injection, include some additional dull pain at the treated areas after the procedure for 1 to 4 days. Bruising can sometimes occur, though this is unusual, and can last from 2 to 7 days. Swelling of the treated area is very common for a few days after the treatment. The lips, in particular, are an area in which the swelling is likely to be most severe, sometimes resulting in an overly puffy appearance of the lips that can last for a few days. Ordinarily, once the filler has "settled-in," which takes about a week, the product can be expected to last for a minimum of 6 months, but in many instances the treatment lasts up to 9 to 12 months.
Rio Grande DermatologyIs one of the few clinics, certified by allergan - the manufacturer of juvederm and botox.
Laser Dermatology
Rio Grande Dermatology has the two best laser treatments on the marketThere are literally hundreds of lasers on the market these days. We offer what we feel are the two best lasers on the market today based upon medical evidence. These systems, Fraxel and V-Beam, have been clearly shown to provide safe and effective results.
Fraxel Laser at Rio Grande DermatologyFraxel laser is effective for a host of skin care treatments including, sun-damaged skin, scars, stretch marks, acne scarring and unwanted brown spots. Fraxel laser has FDA approval and is very safe, particularly when administered by a trained doctor, as is always the case at Rio Grande Dermatology.
V-Beam Laser at Rio Grande DermatologyThe V-Beam Laser is by far the best treatment for unwanted facial and leg veins, with the exception of varicose veins. It's also used to treat red spots, certain types of scars, red stretch marks, the facial veins of rosacea and, in some cases, warts. V-Beam treatments are quick, usually requiring only 15 to 20 minutes.
The Latest in Laser Hair Removal: LightSheer XC and LightSheer DuetThe LightSheer XC and LightSheer Duet are the only FDA approved laser products on the market proven to permanently remove hair on all skin types. They offer superior results by safely and effectively treating all skin types including tanned skin and any range of hair colors, diameters and depths. The length of the appointment will vary depending on the area and amount of hair being removed: a small area such as the upper lip may require a few minutes, however, more than one treatment may be required to treat larger areas of the body. All of our laser technicians are certified by the manufacturer to provide the best and safest treatments possible.
Medical
AcneAcne is chronic inflammation of the hair follicles and oil glands. It usually starts during adolescence due to hormone fluctuations and increased oil production. Acne consists of plugged pores (comedones), papules, pustules, nodules and cysts. Intense inflammation or picking at acne lesions can lead to scarring. At Rio Grande Dermatology, we have Fraxel laser treatments (Fraxel), which can reduce acne scarring in all skin types.
RosaceaRosacea, which causes redness in the face, is also known as adult acne. It can start insidiously as flushing or blushing. The redness of the face then becomes persistent and broken blood vessels can be seen on the surface of the skin. Red bumps and pustules are often a part of rosacea. Some people who suffer from it complain of sensitive skin and dry, itchy, red eyes. If left untreated, the red-faced, acne-like condition can potentially be a life-disruptive disorder, causing serious psychological, professional and social problems. The negative impact on self-esteem can be significant. At Rio Grande Dermatology, our professionals can tailor a skin care regimen to help with all of the symptoms and signs of rosacea.
PsoriasisPsoriasis is a chronic, inflammatory disorder affecting the skin, nails and joints. Approximately 2% of people have psoriasis and any age group can be affected by it. Psoriasis typically manifests as red, thick plaques with silvery, white scales. Elbows, knees, lower back and scalp are most often affected. Psoriasis can be asymptomatic or itchy. If the psoriasis is present on the hands or feet it can be disabling. The exact cause of psoriasis is unknown, but it's thought to be an abnormal immune response causing the skin to grow more quickly than usual.
EczemaEczema is a common type of dermatitis (inflamed skin), which causes intense itching and appears on the skin as scaly, red patches with oozing crust, redness and swelling. Dry, scaly patches may be found anywhere on the body. There are many different causes of eczema, all of which lead to inflammation of the skin.
Skin Cancer
Presence of molesMalignant melanoma is the most serious form of skin cancer. Melanoma develops from a cell type called a melanocyte. Melanocytes are pigment-producing cells normally present in the top layer of skin, called the epidermis. Melanocytes give us our skin color and cause us to tan in response to sun exposure. Clusters of melanocytes are normally present in the skin and are called moles or nevi.
Skin Cancer Cases IncreasingMalignant melanoma can be triggered by overexposure to the sun or by inherited genes. Melanoma, unfortunately, is becoming more prevalent in the population. People most at risk for developing melanoma have one or more of the following; light skin and light eyes, a history of severe sunburns, more than 100 moles and a family history of melanoma. However, people of any skin color or ethnic background can develop melanoma.
Skin BiopsyTo find out if a mole is melanoma, your dermatologist will need to examine you. If the mole appears suspicious, a small sample, called a biopsy, will be taken. The sample will be examined under the microscope to determine if it is a melanoma. The good news is that melanoma can be cured if discovered early. Once melanoma has spread, there is little chance of a cure. Please see a dermatologist now if you have moles that have never been checked or about which you have questions.
Hyperhidrosis
Excessive Sweating or Hyperhidrosis
Treatments for hyperhidrosisThere are many treatments for hyperhidrosis, including prescription antiperspirants, a particular surgical procedure (endoscopic thoracic sympathectomy) and Botox injections.
Botox effective and long-lastingUsually covered by insurance as a medical (not cosmetic) condition, Botox injections can dramatically decrease unwanted sweating for up to 6 months, and in some cases, even longer.
Minimal side effectsComplications are extremely rare. In the armpits, the only realistic complication is the potential for tiny bruising. On the hands, there is a very small chance the Botox will slightly weaken some of the small muscles of the fingers. In rare instances, this can result in temporary problems such as difficulty fastening the buttons on a shirt and other fine but forceful movements of the fingers.
Actinic Keratoses
Sun Exposure and Actinic Keratoses
Actinic Keratoses Can Lead to Skin CancerActinic keratoses can lead to to skin cancer if left long enough without treatment and the type of cancer they most often precede is squamous cell carcinoma. Actinic keratoses are treated in a variety of ways. The most common treatment at Rio Grande Dermatology and elsewhere is cryotherapy, in which the actinic keratosis is destroyed with a spray of liquid nitrogen. If many actinic keratoses are present, your Rio Grande dermatologist may recommend a topical cream that you apply at home for several weeks. Chemical peels in the doctor's office are another way to treat multiple actinic keratoses.
Protect Yourself from the SunAvoiding exposure to the sun can prevent actinic keratoses. Wearing a sunscreen with SPF 30 everyday on face, ears, neck, chest and arms is recommended by Rio Grande physicians. A hat that effectively shields the sun is also a good tool for protection. The best hats should have wide brims, and when held up to the sun, will not let sunlight through. Long sleeves are a good way to protect arms from too much sun exposure and there is special UV protective fabric incorporated into garments specifically made for outdoor activities. These clothes can be found at sporting goods stores.
Skin Infections
WartsWarts are common infections of the skin caused by a virus called human papilloma virus. The most common sites affected are hands, feet and genitals, but a wart can appear anywhere. People usually get warts treated because they're unsightly and can spread. Occasionally, warts become painful or itchy. It is extremely important to have genital warts treated because they can lead to cancer. Common treatments include topical medication or destruction by cryotherapy (freezing), laser, or scraping and burning (ED&C). Rio Grande dermatologists believe the best treatment for warts combines in office destruction with at home medication.
RingwormTinea infection, also called ringworm, is a common fungal infection of the skin, hair and nails. When the skin is affected, tinea is easy to treat with topical and systemic medications. When the hair or nails are infected, an oral medication taken for a few months will cure the infection.
Cold SoresCold sores, also called fever blisters, are caused by infection from the herpes simplex virus. The infection can appear anywhere on the skin and is common on the genitals. After the first outbreak, the virus goes into a dormant state under the skin. Clusters of sores or blisters may then appear later at various intervals, which may be painful. Oral medication taken at the first sign of an outbreak can prevent or reduce the duration of a herpes episode. People who have frequent outbreaks can take the medication regularly and prevent lesions from arising.
ShinglesHerpes zoster, also called shingles, is another viral infection of the skin. Shingles is more commonly seen in older individuals. It appears as a trail of painful blisters on the skin on only one side of the body. The blisters are usually painful and sometimes the pain is present before the blisters appear. Pain can also linger after the blisters have healed, which takes about 2 weeks. The best treatment is an antiviral medication taken within 72 hours of onset. If you think you may have shingles, call your Rio Grande dermatologist immediately.
Surgical
Skin BiopsyDetermination of whether you have skin cancer will begin with a skin biopsy. Usually a small sample is taken from an area of abnormal skin tissue. Sometimes the sample is a small wedge of skin called a shave biopsy. This technique is safe and easy. You will receive a shot of local anesthesia prior to the biopsy and the rest of the procedure will be pain free.
Surgical ExcisionTo remove the cancerous skin, your Rio Grande physician will begin by outlining the area with a skin-marking pen. A margin of normal appearing skin will be included because there is no way to determine with the naked eye how far the cancer cells have spread. The excision outline is drawn in the shape of a football so that the skin can be sewn back together to lay flat. After your dermatologist administers a local anesthetic, he or she will remove the cancerous skin. The entire procedure takes approximately 30 minutes.
Cyst ExcisionMany benign lesions are removed with a skin biopsy and excision. Many patients request the removal of benign moles for cosmetic reasons or because the mole becomes sore and itchy when rubbed by clothing. The most common method of removal is to shave the mole flush with the surrounding skin. This technique leaves a flat, skin-colored to light scar the size of the original lesion. Other types of removal are also available and your Rio Grande physician will choose the technique that will leave you with the most cosmetically acceptable scar.
Mohs Micrographic SurgeryYour Rio Grande physician may determine that Mohs surgery is the best procedure based on the location and type of skin cancer. Mohs surgery is often recommended on areas of the face where it would be difficult or disfiguring to take extra skin. Some aggressive forms of skin cancer or very large tumors may require Mohs surgery.
