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Cataract surgery is a commonly performed procedure designed to treat cataracts. Cataracts are cloudy patches that develop on your eye lens, affecting vision significantly when left untreated. At ICT Eye in Wichita, KS, we understand how important clear vision is to your independence and quality of life. That’s why we proudly offer this safe, effective procedure for the treatment of cataracts. Read on to learn more about it, including how long it takes.

How Long Does Cataract Surgery Take? 

Generally, cataract surgery can be completed in just half an hour to 45 minutes. During this time, the pupil will be dilated with eye drops and a local anesthetic will numb the eye to ensure you don’t feel any pain during your surgery. If you’re feeling anxious, you can have a sedative administered to calm your nerves, but it may not put you to sleep.

Once you’re ready for surgery, the clouded lens will be removed. Generally, a replacement lens is implanted once the cataract has been removed. However, this is not always the case. Whether you need a replacement lens will be discussed during your initial consultation.

Am I a Good Candidate for This Procedure? 

The more your quality of life is impaired by your poor vision, the more likely it is that you will be considered a good candidate for this procedure. For example, if you have trouble watching TV or reading, now may be the right time for you to have your cataracts removed. Similarly, it is probably time for you to get your cataracts removed if you can’t see well enough to drive or do your job safely.

Another sign that you may be a good candidate for cataract removal is struggling to see when in bright light. Additionally, it may be appropriate for you to have your cataracts removed if your ability to take medications, cook, shop, go up and down stairs, or care for your yard is impaired. There is a very strong chance that you will qualify for cataract removal if your cataracts make the monitoring or treatment of other problems, like diabetic retinopathy or AMD hard.

How Should I Prepare for My Procedure? 

There are a number of preparation steps you must take prior to cataract surgery. One of the most important preparation steps is to attend an initial consultation to verify that this procedure will be both safe and effective for you. We will also advise you on all of the things you will need to do and avoid for a period of time before and after surgery.

One thing you will need to do before your surgery is to have an ultrasound test conducted on your eye. This lets us know the precise size and shape of your eye so we can determine what intraocular lens (IOL) is appropriate for you.

What Are the Benefits of Different Types of Lenses? 

Fixed-focus monofocal lenses are advantageous for people who struggle to see things far away. Thanks to the highly effective single focus strength of this lens type, you may not need to wear glasses when you drive once your eye has healed from the surgery. However, glasses may still be necessary when reading. A toric lens is advantageous for individuals who suffer from significant astigmatism.

Other lens types include multifocal and accommodating-focus monofocal. The former is similar to glasses with progressive or bifocal lenses. It can help you see things that are short, medium, and far distances away. The latter, like a fixed-focus monofocal, only has one focusing strength. However, you do have control over whether you are focusing on distant or near objects by moving your eye muscles.

What Can I Expect After My Surgery?

You can expect to notice an improvement in your vision just a few days after your cataract removal. Often, cataracts are brown- or yellow-tinted, so colors are muted. Therefore, it should come as no surprise to you if you feel like colors are a lot brighter once your cataracts are removed.

Will I Be Able To Drive After My Procedure? 

No, you will not be able to drive yourself home after your surgery. For your safety, and for the safety of others on the road, arrange from transportation home before you come in for your cataract removal. How soon after your procedure you can drive depends on several factors, including how long it takes your vision to improve and whether you are taking prescription medications that impair your cognitive function and reaction time.

How Long Will My Recovery Take? 

You can expect a full recovery to take approximately eight weeks to complete. During this time, especially during the first week of your recovery, it is highly advisable to have someone with you in your home to help you care for yourself. There will be restrictions on your activities, like bending over and lifting things. It is also important that vigorous exercise and other strenuous physical activity is avoided for several weeks during your recovery.

Will I Need To Wear Glasses After My Surgery? 

It is possible that you will need to wear glasses even after your cataracts are removed. However, you may not need to wear them all the time. Approximately one to three months after your surgery, your eyes should be healed enough that you can get an accurate final prescription for your glasses.

There is an exception to this general rule, though. If you have cataracts in both eyes, cataract removal is usually only performed on one eye at a time. Cataract removal for the second eye occurs after the first eye has healed. Therefore, it may be up to six months before you can get a final prescription for eyeglasses.

Do I Have Cataracts? 

It is incredibly rare to be able to feel cataracts or see them in the mirror. However, there are symptoms that indicate it may be time to schedule an eye exam and find out whether you have cataracts. One of the most common signs is seeing halos around lights. Other light-related symptoms include increasingly poor night vision, extreme glare and light sensitivity, and needing brighter light for such activities as reading or putting together a puzzle.

You also may have cataracts if you have double vision in one eye or if you need to change your contact lens or eyeglass prescription frequently. If you feel like colors are fading or yellow-tinted, you should strongly consider scheduling an eye exam. Similarly, you may have cataracts if your vision is dim, blurry, or cloudy.

What Causes This Condition? 

Most of the time, cataracts are caused by getting older or sustaining a significant injury that changes the tissue comprising the lens. However, your genes are a significant risk factor, and it is possible to develop cataracts because of other medical conditions. For example, diabetes increases the risk of cataract development. As another example, long-term steroid-use can lead to the development of cataracts.

What Are the Most Serious Risk Factors of Cataracts? 

Some of the most serious risk factors for cataracts are age, diabetes, previous eye surgery, and long-term corticosteroid drug use. Other serious risk factors include hypertension, tobacco consumption, excessive alcohol consumption, obesity, and previous eye inflammation or injury. Furthermore, your risk of developing cataracts increases significantly if you subject yourself to excessive sunlight exposure.

How Can I Mitigate My Risk of Developing Cataracts in the Future? 

Two of the most effective steps you can take to mitigate your risk of developing cataracts in the future are to stop smoking and lose weight if you are obese. You can also significantly reduce your risk of cataract development by moderating your alcohol intake and staying hydrated when you drink alcohol.

Obesity, tobacco consumption, and excessive alcohol consumption often go hand in hand with hypertension, another significant risk factor for developing cloudy lenses. You can also reduce your risk of developing cataracts by eating five servings of fruits and vegetables daily and wearing sunglasses that block UVB rays when you are outdoors.

Schedule Your Initial Consultation Today

You can generally expect your lens correction procedure to be completed in just 30 minutes. However, in some cases, it can take up to 45 minutes. After your procedure, you are free to go and focus on your recovery in the comfort of your own home. Contact us today at ICT Eye in Wichita, KS to schedule your initial consultation and find out if this procedure is right for you. 

Are you frustrated by the appearance of your neck, chest, or face? Do you wish that there was an effective solution to lift and tighten loose, sagging skin that didn’t involve invasive surgery? If so, you may be able to get Ultherapy at ICT Eye in Wichita, KS. We understand the signs of aging can seriously affect one’s self-esteem, and we also understand that surgery is right for everyone. That’s why we offer several non-surgical treatments to improve the health and appearance of the skin.

Who Can Get Ultherapy? 

Adults Who Can Follow Preparation Instructions

If you’re at least 21 years of age, there is a good chance that you can get Ultherapy safely. However, you need to be committed to following all preparation instructions to qualify. For example, it is vital that your skin is not irritated when you come in for your non-invasive, ultrasound-based skin tightening treatment. Therefore, you will need to avoid waxing the targeted area or getting any other aesthetic treatments that have the potential to irritate the skin.

It is also important that you wear sunscreen diligently in the weeks leading up to your treatment session. If you have a sunburn in the treatment area at the time of your scheduled appointment, it will have to be rescheduled. During your initial consultation, we will give you a complete list of things to avoid to qualify for your session. You also need to be able to maintain a healthy diet that includes plenty of hydrating fluids for you to get the most out of your session.

Adults Who Can Follow Aftercare Guidelines

You also must be able to follow all aftercare guidelines to qualify for this treatment. Even though this treatment isn’t invasive, there are steps you will need to take to care of your skin for a little while after treatment. For example, it is extremely important that you don’t sweat excessively. Therefore, you won’t be able to wind down in a steam room or dry sauna. Similarly, you should avoid taking a steaming hot shower after your treatment.

Another important thing to avoid after your treatment session is dehydration. The results of this treatment are derived from your skin ramping up its production of collagen in response to the heat emitted by the sound waves. To see your ideal results as quickly as possible, your skin needs several building blocks to produce extra collagen. Among the most important building blocks for the construction of this protein are water, vitamin C, and amino acids.

Adults Who Have Realistic Expectations About the Results

Additionally, you need to have realistic expectations about the results to qualify for this treatment. You should understand that this treatment can make you look years younger and much slimmer by tightening up loose skin. It will not make you look like a different person or someone who’s had work done. You will simply look like a younger, natural version of yourself.

You should also understand that it will take you several weeks to see your ideal results even if you only need one treatment session. Since this treatment’s results are derived from a boost in localized collagen production, you won’t be able to see your desired results until your skin has had enough time to produce an adequate amount of collagen in your areas of concern. Finally, you should understand that your results may last for years, but they will not last forever.

Other Frequently Asked Questions Answered

What Can I Do To Extend the Longevity of My Results? 

To ensure your results last for as long as possible, you need to do your best to keep your collagen healthy and strong. One of the most effective ways you can accomplish this is to wear sunscreen diligently and minimize your exposure to sunlight between the hours of 10 o’clock in the morning and 4 o’clock in the afternoon. Remember that you need to wear a sun protectant that provides a sun protection factor of at least 35 and blocks UVC rays.

You should also remember that your sunscreen should be stored in a cool, dry place, and it should be reapplied every four hours. Moisturizing your skin every day is another effective step you can take to keep your skin looking tight and smooth. For maximum efficacy, you should moisturize your skin twice per day if you have dry skin. You should also stay hydrated, eat nutritiously, support the efficiency of your circulatory system, and minimize alcohol consumption.

Will This Treatment Hurt? 

No, you will not feel any pain or discomfort during your ultrasound-based skin tightening treatment. When the special ultrasound gel is applied to your treatment area, it will feel cool. It will not feel painfully cold.

Then, the energy from the sound waves will warm the deepest layers of your skin, but the heat emitted by the sound energy will not be uncomfortably hot. You should not be surprised if you feel a slight tingling, but that’s the only sensation besides warmth you’ll feel.

How Long Will My Treatment Take? 

The length of your treatment depends on the severity of your concerns and the scope of your goals. If you are only concerned about one region of your body, like your chest or lower face, your treatment session may be completed in just half of an hour. On the other hand, if you have several areas of concern, you may need 90 minutes for an effective treatment session.

What Can I Expect After My Treatment? 

Once your non-surgical skin tightening session is complete, you are free to go back to work as long as certain conditions are met. While there is no downtime to speak of, there are a number of recovery guidelines you will need to adhere to for the best experience. Remember, you need to avoid excessive heat, sweating, and vigorous physical activity. Therefore, you will need to take off from work if your job is physically demanding.

What Other Cosmetic Treatments Can Improve My Appearance? 

During your initial consultation, we will go over all of your cosmetic concerns and goals. Depending on where your aesthetic is now and what you would like to achieve, you may benefit significantly from a chemical peel. The beauty of a chemical peel is that it is incredibly customizable. The strength of the peel can be tailored to the severity of your concerns, the type of concerns you have, and the sensitivity of your skin.

How To Care for Your Skin After a Chemical Peel

Like Ultherapy, a chemical peel requires no downtime. However, there are steps you will need to take to care for your skin once your treatment is over. For example, you will need to keep your hair out of your face for a week or two while your skin is peeling. It is important to ensure your hair remains out of your face so you are less likely to accidentally touch your face.

It is also vital that you do not pick at your peeling skin. This will only extend the amount of time it takes for your skin to finish peeling and potentially lead to acne outbreaks or other problems. To help you determine whether a chemical peel is appropriate for you, we will give you a complete list of aftercare instructions during your initial consultation. If you feel unsure about whether you can follow all of them, this treatment may not be right for you.

How To Prepare for a Chemical Peel

The most important chemical peel preparation step you must take is to attend an initial evaluation. Chemical peels are safe for all skin types and tones. However, an evaluation is required to verify that this type of treatment will be safe and effective for you and your goals. In addition to giving you a complete list of aftercare steps, we will also give you a complete list of preparation guidelines, like avoiding sunburn and certain skincare products.

Schedule Your Initial Consultation Today

Do you think your self-confidence would improve if your skin was lifted and tightened? Do you wish you could smooth unwanted wrinkles away effectively without surgery? If so, you may be able to get Ultherapy. To find out for sure whether this non-invasive treatment is right for you, contact us today at ICT Eye in Wichita, KS to schedule your initial consultation. If you can follow all preparation and aftercare guidelines, there’s a good chance you’ll qualify!

Are your eyes so dry that your vision is blurry? Do your eyes itch and water or look red? If so, iLux dry eye treatment at ICT Eye in Wichita, KS may be appropriate for you. However, iLux treatment is not the only solution for eye dryness. Keep reading to learn more about the safest and most effective ways to treat eye dryness if you are sick and tired of struggling with the symptoms.

How Can You Treat Dry Eye? 

iLux Treatment

iLux is an FDA-approved device developed by Tear Film Innovations as an alternative eye dryness solution to surgery. With this device, compression and heat are applied to the eyelids to treat meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) quickly, safely, and effectively. During this treatment, any blockages that may be present in your meibomian glands will be softened. This gives your body the opportunity to produce enough oil to keep your tears from evaporating rapidly.

Antibiotics

If your eye dryness is caused by eyelid inflammation, your oil glands may not be able to deposit oil into your tears. This can be treated with an oral antibiotic, an antibiotic ointment applied to the edges of your eyelids, or with eye drops. Eye drops may also be appropriate if cornea inflammation is causing eye dryness. During an initial evaluation, you may be advised that you need cyclosporine-based eye drops or a corticosteroid. Corticosteroids are not a long-term solution, though.

Do I Suffer From This Condition? 

Dry eye symptoms vary, but one of the most common symptoms of this condition is difficulty driving at night. Often, people who suffer from eye dryness have blurry vision, eye fatigue that worsens as the day wears on, and sensitivity to light. If you have trouble driving at night due to the contrast of the lights and darkness, wearing glasses with amber lenses may help you significantly. Eye redness and watery eyes can also indicate your eyes are dry.

Another common sign that you suffer from eye dryness is feeling like something is in your eyes. You may feel your eyes itch, burn, or sting, and you may notice stringy mucus on your washcloth when you wash your face. It is also not uncommon for mucus to be in your eyes, not just around them.

What Causes This Condition? 

Insufficient Tear Production

For the safest, most effective eye dryness solution, it is important to figure out why you are suffering from this condition. There are a number of potential causes, including insufficient tear production. If your eyes can’t produce enough aqueous fluid to keep themselves moist, you have a condition known as keratoconjunctivitis sicca. Some of the most common triggers of this condition are: 

• The natural aging process
• Sjorgen’s syndrome
• RA
• Scleroderma
• Vitamin A deficiency
• Regular antihistamine use
• Regular decongestant use
• Birth control use
• Corneal nerve desensitivity

Excessive Tear Evaporation

iLux will probably be the ideal dry eye treatment method for you if your eye dryness is caused by excessive tear evaporation. The rate at which your tears evaporate can increase significantly if your meibomian glands are clogged. However, clogged meibomian glands are not the only explanation for excessive tear evaporation. Excessive tear evaporation can also be caused by such factors as: 

• Eye allergies
• Parkinson’s disease
• Driving regularly
• Focusing on a monitor regularly
• Vitamin A deficiency
• Preservatives in topical eye drops
• Dry air

What Are the Risk Factors of Developing This Condition? 

Age and sex are the two most significant risk factors for developing eye dryness. Women are more likely than men to develop this condition, especially if they experience massive hormonal changes. For instance, you are more likely to suffer from eye dryness if you use hormonal birth control, become pregnant, or start menopause. Your risk of suffering from eye dryness increases significantly after the age of 50 due to a natural reduction in tear production.

A diet of mostly processed foods is another significant risk factor for the development of eye dryness. While some processed foods, like a lot of breakfast cereals, are fortified with vitamins and minerals, there is a good chance that you are not getting all of the nourishment you need every day if you don’t get a lot of whole foods in your diet. Since vitamin A deficiency can impede your ability to produce aqueous fluid and retain it, a healthy diet is vital.

How Can I Mitigate My Risk of Eye Dryness? 

Protect Your Eyes

Protect your eyes from blowing air to mitigate your risk of eye dryness. Close your eyes when using your hair dryer and never point your desk fan, car heater, or air conditioner towards your eyes. In the winter, protect your eyes from dry air by keeping a humidifier running in your room. Protect your eyes from wind and light damage by wearing such eye protection as a pair of wraparound sunglasses.

Prevent Fatigue

You can also mitigate your risk of eye dryness by taking steps to prevent fatigue. If you find yourself in situations where you may be blinking less than normal, such as when you are engrossed in your favorite book, you’re driving across the state for a family reunion, or you’re working in front of a computer monitor, make sure you take plenty of breaks.

If you’re on a long road trip, you may want to stop at every rest area you pass. While you’re taking your break, further rest your eyes by looking at something in the distance. Then, look at something a little closer to you. This technique also works if you’re looking at a computer monitor. You can also mitigate your risk of eye fatigue by lowering your monitors. The higher you are above your monitors, the less your eyes have to work for a wide field of view.

How Should I Prepare for My Appointment? 

One of the most important steps to take to prepare for your appointment is to keep a list of all of the symptoms you’re experiencing. You should also make a note of problems you’re having that you don’t think are related to your eye dryness. The more information you give us, the more likely it is that we can make an accurate diagnosis quickly and get you on the right path to relief. You should also write down any life changes you have experienced recently.

For instance, we need to know if you have recently adopted a pet or moved to a new home. You should also let us know what dietary supplements and medications you are currently taking, especially if you have recently started to take these pharmaceuticals. Furthermore, you may want to spend a few days writing down any questions you may have that come to mind. It is not uncommon for people to want information but then forget what they were curious about when it comes to appointment time.

What Questions To Ask During Your Appointment

One of the most common questions we get when people come in with eye dryness is what is the most likely cause of my condition. We are also frequently asked about the tests that will be run to diagnose the condition, and we often get questions about treatment options, including waiting for the condition to resolve itself.

What Questions To Expect During Your Appointment

During your evaluation, we will ask you to describe your symptoms and advise us on when, to the best of your recollection, your symptoms began. We also need to know whether your symptoms are occasional or continuous. We will also ask you about your family medical history. If you’re not familiar with your family medical history, ask your parents and siblings if they have been diagnosed with dry eye.

In addition to advising us on your symptoms, you should also advise us on what you do to treat your symptoms temporarily. You may want to make a note of the solutions you’ve tried, like over-the-counter eye drops, and  what relief, if any, they provided you. Also, take note of when your symptoms are most severe. Knowing whether you are most uncomfortable in the morning or evening can help us diagnose your condition accurately.

Schedule Your Initial Consultation Today

There are a number of ways to treat dry eye including iLux and using eye drops. To find out how you can best treat your eye dryness, you need to schedule an appointment with an eye expert. Reach out to us today at ICT Eye in Wichita, KS to schedule an appointment and find out the best way to address your eye concerns.

What if there was a quick and effective way to reduce wrinkles and folds? We recommend Belotero Balance at Beautiful Eyes LLC in Wichita, KS. Injectable treatments that use hyaluronic acid are effective at eliminating aging signs. You’ll notice that your face is more supple and looks younger in just a few minutes with this treatment.

 

How Long Does Belotero Last?

The results of Belotero Balance can last anywhere from six months to 18 months, on average. A number of factors can affect the results you achieve from your treatment, including your age, general health, and the amount of filler you receive.

It is impossible to change your genetic makeup, of course, which will do a lot to determine how long this lasts for you, and we will give you the amount of filler that’s right for giving you natural and beautiful results: but you can also take some steps to make sure the treatment lasts for as long as possible:

 

Stay Out of the Sun

You should minimize your UV exposure. Overexposure to sunlight can lead to skin damage. Compared to the skin elsewhere on the body, the skin on the face burns more quickly due to its thinness and delicate nature. Using regular sunscreen can make your skin healthier overall, in addition to helping you get the longest results from your injections. Wear a wide-brimmed hat and apply sunscreen every day, even in cloudy weather.

 

Minimize Stress

Stress can also lead to wrinkles and lines as well as speed up the aging process. The effects of stress cannot be completely eliminated, but they can be minimized. Yoga and meditation can help you manage the stress you can’t avoid. In addition, it is a good idea to remove unnecessary stress-inducing factors from your life whenever you can.

 

Eat Well

Eating well is the first step toward caring for your body. Sugar is found in a variety of foods, including some you wouldn’t expect, but it hinders collagen and elastin from retaining moisture and clearing the skin. Choose whole, antioxidant-rich foods rather than snacks full of sugar. Berry fruits, for example, may help reduce wrinkles and age spots by fighting free radicals.

Also, limit your consumption of caffeine and alcohol, which can dehydrate your cells. Reducing salty snacks will also help your cells stay hydrated.

Use the Right Skincare Products

The chemicals in many inexpensive skincare products can cause irritation to the skin, such as sodium lauryl sulfate, formaldehyde, and propylene glycol. A healthy lifestyle means using products that contain healthy ingredients that will keep your skin clean and moisturized. Drinking lots of water is also important, along with using quality skincare products. Stay hydrated after your treatment to maximize the effects of Belotero Balance: it’s good for your skin and helps your skincare products work better.

Get Maintenance Treatments

Regular touch-ups by our experienced staff will ensure the best results. After your initial treatment, we recommend scheduling these appointments right away. By getting regular treatments, you may be able to train your muscles to respond to injectables more effectively. You may eventually require fewer treatments and at alonger intervals if you keep up with maintenance treatments regularly.

 

Why This Treatment Works

The Problem

There is an intricate relationship between your body’s HA levels, skin volume, and genetic predisposition to wrinkles. When your skin is young, HA – which is produced proportionately with collagen and elastin – is present in large amounts, which helps it maintain its structure and prevent wrinkles. It works by binding to water molecules and regulating moisture levels in the skin.

For soft tissues to stay radiant, they need plenty of moisture that can reflect rather than absorb light. The skin looks dull and tired when it absorbs light instead of reflecting it. We begin to see a change in our skin in our 30s, when our bodies naturally start to produce less HA. Thus, fine lines and wrinkles develop as the skin thins and dries out.

The Solution

HA-based facial fillers hydrate the skin from within while also restoring volume. When HA-based facial fillers combine these two effects, they can rejuvenate your appearance. The fillers not only strengthen sagging skin but also nourish it, so it appears radiant and youthful once again.

The Belotero Balance treatment is ideal for those who prefer a more natural approach to their healthcare. In this filler, hyaluronic acid is present in a form that is similar to what our bodies produce naturally, so the body knows just what to do with it. Using molecules of stabilized HA, this treatment gently and effectively restores lost volume. It is possible for a single treatment to last up to 18 months without affecting muscle movement in any way. It’s an effective way to slow the aging process dramatically.

How Quickly Does Belotero Balance Start Working?

Skin responds to cosmetic treatments differently for each individual. In general, however, Belotero Balance delivers immediate results due to hyaluronic acid (HA). In addition to looking plumper and smoother, the skin appears plump after the treatment. Nonetheless, as the HA settles into your skin’s foundational layers, these results should continue to improve. Nasolabial folds, or folds to the sides of the nose that extend into the corners of the mouth, are the specific problem this product was created to address.

The two most important factors contributing to the formation of these folds are smoking and sun damage. The breakdown of collagen and elastin keeps skin supple and resilient, but each of these factors weakens collagen and elastin. Cumulative damage can make nasolabial folds more prominent. In contrast, some people, regardless of their lifestyle or sun exposure, have prominent folds simply because of genetics or aging.

 

What To Expect From Your Injection Treatment

You will have a chance to consult with a member of our professional staff privately about your treatment options. Your treatment session will be tailored to your specific cosmetic concerns, and we will discuss what to expect with you beforehand. In addition, we will consider whether or not you are healthy enough to have this treatment and whether it is an appropriate method of reaching your goals.

In the end, we will review your medical history, answer all your questions, and make sure that you feel completely comfortable and at ease throughout the entire process.

Preparing for Injections

There are no complex steps involved in preparing for treatment. It is as simple as coming in for a consultation with us! Providing you follow only a few simple steps, you might even be able to get treatment on the same day that you have your consultation.

It is important to protect your skin from UV damage and avoid invasive hair removal methods, such as laser resurfacing, tweezing, waxing, and microdermabrasion. Depending on your current medications, you might be recommended to temporarily stop taking blood thinners and other medications that may interfere with your treatment. You should also ensure that your skin has been moisturized and nourished well.

 

During a Treatment Session

During the actual treatment, you can expect the process to be completed quickly. In our experience, it should take less than a half-hour to administer the injections. Using extremely small needles and injecting the gel strategically underneath the skin, we use just the right amount of product to get you the results you’re looking for. Once this has been done, it is possible to return to work, run errands, and continue with your normal day.

After Your Treatment

Because you won’t have to worry about recovery time with this treatment, no downtime is required. The best results will be achieved if you follow a few guidelines. The volumizing qualities of this injectible are enhanced by drinking water. Although this has been mentioned previously, it is worth explaining again. Keep yourself hydrated, and you will be able to achieve your goals sooner. It is very important to get enough sleep and eat a healthy diet in order to rejuvenate your skin tissues.

The day following the session, you will be able to resume your regular activities, but you need to avoid a few things. A vigorous exercise routine raises your blood pressure and makes you flushed, but it is recommended that you keep your blood pressure within normal ranges for at least one or two days after treatment. Furthermore, it is also recommended that you stay away from hot showers, hot saunas, and steam rooms for a few days after your treatment. Be sure to ask us about the best ways to care for yourself.

Visit Us to Learn More!

Treatment with this injectible is painless, convenient, quick, and easy to manage. It can also be life-changing. Just a simple treatment can return your skin to a youthful, supple glow. Contact Beautiful Eyes LLC in Wichita, KS today to find out if this is the best way to achieve your goals.

A double chin can alter a person’s facial structure considerably and undermine their naturally beautiful features. Although up to 70% of adults suffer from this issue, it can be extremely distressing and cause a loss of self-confidence, especially if the patient is young or doesn’t suffer from weight-related issues in other areas of the body. Here at ICT Eye in Wichita, KS, we can help you regain your great profile with Kybella Wichita injections.

This minimally invasive treatment involves injecting deoxycholic acid, which dissolves fat tissue, into the chin. It is a great option for people who would like to get rid of their double chin permanently, are close to their target weight, and are looking for a nonsurgical method. Today, we’ll have a closer look at how long it takes for Kybella Wichita to work and what you can expect from your sessions at the clinic.

When Can You Expect Kybella Injections to Work?

The active ingredient in double chin treatment is called deoxycholic acid, and it is one of the body’s secondary bile acids. When injected in the chin, this substance melts away the fat cells. After your appointment, the acid begins working immediately, but it will take several weeks for the body to break down, absorb, and excrete the excess tissue in your chin.

Everyone’s results are slightly different, but most people can expect to notice visible changes within four to six weeks of their first Kybella Wichita session. As treatment continues, the results intensify. Around one to two months after the last session, the deoxycholic acid has completed its job. All in all, the average patient will be rid of their double chin approximately half a year after they get in touch with the clinic.

How to Get the Best Results

There are several ways you can make sure you get the most out of Kybella Wichita. Make sure to follow all your doctor’s orders and stop taking substances like alcohol and nicotine before your treatment, since they can negatively impact the healing process. Additionally, you should eat a healthy diet and do plenty of gentle exercise, drink a lot of water, and get at least eight hours of sleep to allow your body to replenish itself.

After your sessions, you’ll have significantly less fat in the area under your chin. This change is permanent, since fat cells don’t re-grow in adults. However, not all the tissue will have been removed, and if you gain a significant amount of weight, you can develop a small double chin again. To prevent this, your specialist will speak to you about your lifestyle habits and encourage you to maintain your weight for the foreseeable future.

What to Expect from Treatment

When you call or message your clinic, we’ll book you in for a consultation with one of our cosmetic experts. During the meeting, we can double check that you are a good candidate for this method and then come up with a treatment plan. Most people need four to six Kybella Wichita sessions, but the number and frequency depend on the extent of your double chin and your desired results.

During the initial meeting, your provider can let you know what to expect from your session and what you should and shouldn’t do beforehand. As mentioned, you won’t be able to consume nicotine or alcohol for one to two weeks before Kybella Wichita injections. Additionally, you should also pause blood-thinning medications and supplements, which can complicate and slow down healing.

The Session

Each double chin treatment session should only take a few minutes, and patients are in and out of the clinic within 30-60 minutes. At the beginning, your provider will make sure your chin is clean and free of makeup, then they will apply a local anesthetic or a numbing cream to the area. As this begins working, they will mark the injection sites.

Once you can’t feel your treatment site, your provider begins injecting the deoxycholic acid under your skin. At any one appointment, you might receive up to 50 individual injections, spaced around one centimeter apart. Because Kybella is technique sensitive, results depend on the practitioner. You should always book your session with a highly trained and qualified provider who has plenty of experience.

Recovery

One of the reasons why this treatment is so popular is that very little recovery time is necessary. After your first session, you might want to take the rest of the day off and rest at home since the treatment is new for you. However, you can resume your regular activities and even return to work immediately after subsequent appointments.

Because the treatment area is not on the face, you can easily hide the injection sites with a turtleneck sweater or a scarf. There are very few things you can’t do after Kybella, but you should keep in mind that your chin must be protected from direct sunlight. What’s more, excess heat is contraindicated for 24-48 hours, so you shouldn’t do strenuous exercise, use a hot tub, take a hot bath, or visit a sauna.

Who Is a Good Candidate?

Since the active ingredient in Kybella occurs naturally in the body and because the treatment is minimally invasive, most people who have struggled with a double chin for a while and are in good general health are suitable candidates. However, this method isn’t meant as a weight loss therapy, so candidates who are struggling with obesity should focus on shedding the extra pounds first.

You’ve Been Suffering from a Double Chin for a While

Children and teenagers can still produce fat cells, so we can only accept adult patients. At the consultation, we will ask you how long you have been suffering from a double chin. If the problem is very new, it might be temporary and settle down on its own, but if it’s been an issue for more than a year, it’s likely that you need some medical assistance. Anyone who has been feeling self-conscious about their chin for many months is a good candidate.

You’re at a Healthy Weight

Contrary to popular belief, many popular fat removal methods aren’t designed to be weight loss therapies. Kybella injections are no different, and they are not appropriate for anyone who struggles with a double chin due to excess weight. Patients who come to the clinic with a high BMI will be asked to lose weight through exercise and dietary changes first.

Unfortunately, natural weight loss measures aren’t always enough to address fat under the chin. Some people retain a stubborn pocket of tissue, no matter how many diets they go on. If you’ve already lost your excess weight and you still have your double chin, it’s likely that you’re eligible for Kybella.

You Want a Minimally Invasive Treatment

One of the best things about this treatment is that it is minimally invasive. Since your provider won’t have to cut open your skin or extract any tissue directly, you won’t need general anesthesia. After your session, you will recover very quickly, and you don’t have to take any time off work or spend many hours at the clinic for observation. Therefore, Kybella is a great option for busy people and those with significant personal or professional responsibilities.

You Have Minimal Health Risks

Because double chin treatment is considered safe, there are very few contraindications. However, we will check your medical record to make sure you are a good candidate. Patients with severe issues such as heart disease or cancer might need to wait until they have their condition under control. Similarly, anyone with an active infection in the treatment area won’t be eligible until their skin has healed completely.

Get Rid of Your Double Chin Quickly and Permanently

A double chin can be distressing for patients and lower their self-esteem. Although it is sometimes caused by weight issues, there are also other factors such as genetics and the natural aging process at play. If you’re worried about the look and feel of your chin, you should come to the clinic and ask about Kybella injections. This method is minimally invasive, so you won’t have to spend a lot of time preparing for and recovering from your session.

What’s more, the results begin to appear just weeks after your appointment, and they are considered permanent. Unless you gain a lot of weight, you won’t need to return to the clinic for another session. Call us today at ICT Eye in Wichita, KS to book your consultation. We will be more than happy to evaluate your cosmetic concern and help you decide whether Kybella is right for you.

Every year, the cosmetic industry releases dozens of lip products to help your lips look fuller, brighter, and younger – but is that the best way to plump up your pout? Dermal fillers for the lips can be an excellent option to reduce the visible signs of aging and also contour your appearance. At ICT Eye in Wichita, KS we know that Volbella is an excellent option for patients who want to enjoy long-lasting, natural-looking results.

Volbella is a dermal filler that is designed to contour the lips and soften lines around the mouth. This filler is most commonly used to increase lip volume to erase the appearance of lipstick lines and smokers lines on the lips and around the mouth. Many patients like to use this treatment to soften small wrinkles at the corner of the mouth. You can also use this filler to embolden the appearance of the lip border and Cupid’s bow.

How Long Does It Take for Volbella To Settle?

If you’ve never had a dermal filler before, then the concept of an injectable treatment settling into the skin may be foreign. Essentially, settling means that the gel-like filler is fully absorbed into the skin and is working to enhance the volume of the skin. Different fillers settle more quickly than others. For Volbella, it will usually take about two weeks for the filler to fully settle into the skin.

For your results, this can mean that the initial plump results you saw the first few days after your treatment may seem to deflect for about a week. This is a good sign because it means that the active ingredients in the filler are being absorbed by the body and are starting to work. As the filler starts working, you will notice that your lips will appear fuller and visible lines around the mouth will soften.

What Is Your Recovery Like?

Recovering from a lip filler is a little bit different than recovering from any other type of dermal filler. For the most part, some instructions will remain the same, such as directions to not touch, rub, or roughly massage the injection area, as this could disturb the settling of the filler product.

For a lip filler, you may have additional instructions, such as directions to not move your mouth very much during the first 12 to 24 hours. You may also need to stay away from spicy food, hot beverages, and other potential lip irritants.

How Soon Will You See Results?

Because it will take two weeks for the filler to settle into your skin, you will likely not notice your optimal results until at least 10 to 14 days after your appointment. Depending on the aesthetic goals you’re trying to achieve, the speed of your results may differ.

For example, if you are only using this treatment to contour your lips, then you may be satisfied with early results as soon as 10 days after your treatment. If you are using the treatment to combat the visible signs of aging around the mouth and on the lips, you may need 14 or more days to achieve optimal results.

How Long Will Results Last?

Many dermal fillers designed for the lips will usually only last six to nine months, but Volbella is different. You can expect this dermal filler to last for at least 12 months at a time. This is because of the Vycross technology that is built into the dermal filler. Vycross technology allows the filler to be flexible, yet fully present in lips, which gives the lips a fully rejuvenated and refreshed appearance.

Is There a Best Age for This Treatment?

This filler is approved for use by anyone who is 21 or older. Depending on how you wish to use the filler, using a lip filler this early in life may or may not be suitable for your needs.

For the most part, people who use this treatment between their 20s and 30s are usually trying to contour lips to achieve a specific aesthetic goal. If you’re using this treatment between the ages of 40 and 50, you’re likely trying to reduce visible signs of aging and restore the useful texture and volume of your lips.

Other Frequently Asked Questions

1. How Do Dermal Fillers Work?

Essentially, these treatments work by injecting a gel-like formula into the skin that will immediately increase the volume of the skin from the subdermal layers. But the true magic behind dermal fillers is the way the unique formulas work with the body.

For example, and other Juvederm fillers are all made with hyaluronic acid. Hyaluronic acid is a natural molecule in the skin that can hold several times its weight in water, so when artificial hyaluronic acid is injected into the skin, it naturally draws water into the skin to restore skin volume. Furthermore, these fillers are unique because research indicates that this special sugar molecule can also encourage the natural production of collagen.

2. What Is Your Treatment Like?

Your treatment appointments will usually take about 20 minutes to complete and are generally very comfortable. It’s up to you whether or not a topical numbing cream will be used on the lips to prepare you for the injections. Some dermal fillers are formulated with lidocaine to make injections more comfortable. Overall, you should be able to have your treatment and go right back to your normal daily activities.

3. What Are the Advantages of Dermal Fillers?

There are a few significant advantages to using dermal fillers. For example, the results of dermal fillers can last for a year or longer most of the time. As scientific discoveries are made, dermal filler technology is becoming more effective and new fillers are lasting longer than ever. A few other reasons you may want to consider a dermal filler treatment include:

Non-Surgical

The fact of the matter is that, for many people, surgical techniques to achieve aesthetic goals are falling out of style because plastic surgery is more painful and has a prolonged recovery time that is inconvenient. The fact that a dermal filler is non-surgical is a huge advantage, because this means there is a significantly lower risk of scarring and other negative side effects.

Many Products

If you are using a dermal filler like Volbella, then you get to benefit from using a product that comes from a long line of other products. The Juvederm family of dermal fillers are widely used and respected. The ability to have many products to choose from allows you to be more versatile in your treatment so that you can achieve all of your goals.

Customizable Treatment

Finally, dermal fillers are highly customizable. What this means is that your treatment will be personalized to your precise needs. Injectable treatments such as this one will be tailored to restore skin volume in each specific area you desire. If you only want to contour one area of the lips, for example, then the filler will focus on this one area.

4. Are There Any Factors That Will Affect How Long Results Last?

The ability to enjoy the results of your treatment for 12 months is already impressive, but you may be interested in helping your results last as long as possible. For example, the number one enemy of a dermal filler is sun exposure. When dermal fillers are exposed to unprotected sunlight, the UV rays in the sunlight will break down the filler formula more quickly. For this reason, you may want to invest in lip care that also includes SPF to help maintain the volume of your lips.

5. Are You a Good Candidate?

If you are over the age of 21, you are not allergic to any of the filler ingredients, you’re not currently pregnant or breastfeeding, and you do not have an active lip concern like a fever blister, you’re likely a good candidate for the treatment. You will need to attend a consultation and provide your medical information, including medication and supplements you are currently taking, to assess your eligibility.

Plump Up Your Pout

Having luscious, full lips is the goal for many people, but ordinary lip cosmetics may not be adequate to achieve this goal. A dermal filler like Volbella from the Juvederm family of products is an excellent option for most people. If you think this treatment is right for you, contact us at ICT Eye in Wichita, KS today to schedule your first appointment.

Are fine lines and wrinkles making you feel insecure about the way you’re aging? Do you want to find a way to turn back the clock and refresh and rejuvenate your skin, all while keeping your natural beauty? Then Voluma may be right for you. With just a few simple injections, you can enjoy younger-looking, gorgeous skin that will have you feeling more yourself again! To learn more about this incredible treatment, offered here at ICT Eye in Wichita, KS, read on.

Where Can You Inject Voluma?

This amazing injectable can be used to treat various cosmetic concerns all over the body. It’s primarily used on the face to treat fine lines, more severe wrinkles, and sagging skin; think frown lines, hollow cheeks, sunken temples, marionette lines, smile lines, and nasolabial folds. It’s commonly used to fill out thin lips that have either always been thin, or lost volume with age. Incredibly, it can even be used to smooth out and soften skin and diminish the appearance of protruding veins on the hands!

What Actually Is Voluma?

Voluma is a series of injections known as a “dermal filler”, which means it uses a key ingredient called hyaluronic acid, or HA, to add hydration and volume to the skin. This FDA-approved cosmetic treatment is a cost and time-effective alternative to surgical cosmetic solutions like a facelift. It also provides more natural-looking results that leave patients looking restored and stunning without ever looking “worked on”. And with over 3.4 million Americans undergoing treatment in 2020, you have to admit this hit treatment must be doing something right!

How Does Hyaluronic Acid Hydrate the Skin?

HA moisturizes the skin by binding to water molecules it finds in the body and then bringing them to the skin’s surface. Incredibly, HA can carry up to one thousand times its weight in water! Not only does it give the skin the moisture it needs to stay soft and smooth, but it helps stimulate the production of proteins like collagen and elastin. These keep the skin springy and full of volume, which is what gives people a more youthful, lifted appearance.

What’s amazing is that HA originally occurs in our bodies. But as we age, we produce less and less of it, and as such, less and less collagen and elastin too. So this treatment uses a synthetic version of HA as its key ingredient, injecting it straight into problematic areas on the skin. The HA does its work, settling into the face over the days after treatment and kickstarting the body’s production of new elastin and collagen. After about two weeks, patients will be able to see the incredible full effects of treatment.

What Exactly Will These Results Look Like?

It will depend on the areas you’re looking to treat, but many patients experience tighter skin that gives them a more sculpted-looking jawline, or perhaps fuller, apple-like cheeks. If you’re looking to fill out lines and wrinkles, you’ll likely be thrilled to see those areas soften and give you a more youthful glow. Whatever the treatment area, all our patients love how natural the results look; treatment leaves them looking refreshed and healthy while still totally themselves. Incredibly, these dazzling results can last for anywhere between six months and two years!

Why Do We Lose HA?

Aging is a key factor in why we lose HA, but other factors can speed up the process. Diet, alcohol and tobacco consumption, sun damage, and even air pollution can all contribute to a rapid loss of HA. And while we can limit our exposure to these things, things like genetics, which are out of our control, also play a part. So it’s very clear that wrinkles and sagging skin are a normal and common part of life, but that doesn’t mean you have to put up with them if you don’t want to!

What Is Treatment Like?

Before

The first step is to come in for a consultation with a member of our expert staff. This will be your chance to talk us through your cosmetic concerns, and we’ll evaluate your medical history to make sure you’re a suitable candidate. If everything is looking good, we’ll design a treatment plan for you, stating how many units of the product you’ll need and how many injections you’ll receive. We’ll carefully follow along with this on the day of your treatment.

On the Day

Treatment is performed in-house at our lovely Wichita office. We’ll ask that you come in with a clean face free of any makeup or sunscreen. We may first apply a topical numbing cream to ensure your maximum comfort, then we’ll perform the injections. Thanks to the cream and the fineness of the needle, many patients can hardly feel treatment! It will last for between five and twenty minutes, depending on how many injections are needed. then you’re free to go!

Recovery

Incredibly, there’s no downtime associated with this treatment. Patients can immediately carry on with their days afterward, heading back to work or errand running without feeling run down. This is in contrast to surgical procedures that ask that patients take time off work and life to heal. We may advise against a few activities that will help you avoid bruising, but we’ll go into more detail after your treatment.

Am I a Good Candidate for This Treatment?

Since there are so many factors that can lead to a loss of collagen and HA, we don’t prescribe one certain age as the “ideal patient”. If you’re over the age of 18 and you’re struggling with sagging, loose skin, we warmly invite you to come in for a consultation. There’s also no one correct skin tone or gender. Excitingly, as we normalize the idea that everyone deserves to look and feel fantastic, dermal fillers for men are becoming more and more common.

Some medical conditions may prohibit you from undergoing treatment, as will certain medications. Those who are pregnant or planning on becoming pregnant soon will also be ineligible. During your consultation, we also may find that your skin concerns would be better treated with a different cosmetic solution, or maybe you like the sound of another treatment better. Whatever the reason, we would be thrilled to talk you through other options offered here at ICT Eye.

What Are Some Alternatives to This Treatment?

Collagen Induction Therapy

Also known as microneedling, collagen induction therapy involves rolling tiny needles along the skin’s surface to create hundreds of “micro-injuries”. While that may sound scary, all it does is trigger the body’s healing processes, triggering the production of new collagen and turning over fresh skin cells. The result is gorgeous, healthy skin with a reduction of pores, scarring, discoloration, and fine lines. It’s an ideal treatment for those who want to utilize their body’s natural processes.

Botox

Perhaps, during your consultation, we’ll learn that your wrinkles aren’t caused by a loss of collagen and HA at all, but instead are “dynamic wrinkles”. These are the wrinkles formed by repeated facial movements such as smiling and frowning. If this is the case, we may instead suggest Botox, an injectable that targets the nerves under the skin and blocks their communication with nearby muscles. When this happens, the muscles no longer contract as you move your face, meaning the skin on top stays smooth and gorgeous!

Chemical Treatments

Want to stay away from needles altogether? You may be interested in one of our chemical peels, which are sort of like medical-strength facials. A series of potent, effective products are applied to the skin’s surface. These formulas can only be administered by professionals such as the members of our expert staff. They serve several functions: some can reduce the appearance of fine lines, while others work to brighten the skin. During your consultation, we’ll decide which peel will best treat your skin concerns.

Non-Surgical Ultherapy

Another great way to get your skin perky and supple is Ultherapy, which works similarly to collagen induction therapy in that it kickstarts your body’s natural processes to create more collagen. But this treatment uses microfocused ultrasound technology to heat the deeper layers of the skin. This thermal effect stimulates the body’s production of new collagen, without having to go anywhere near needles! The carefully focused imaging technology ensures the skin is heated at just the right temperature and just the right layers are targeted.

Are You Ready for Stunning, Younger-Looking Skin?

If you’re done feeling unhappy with the version of yourself looking at you in the mirror, why not change it? With just a few easy injections, you can look more youthful and bright, and feel you again. No matter where on your body you’re looking to treat, Voluma can help you achieve your cosmetic goals. To learn more, schedule a consultation with the team at ICT Eye in Wichita, KS, today.

Textural and pigmented skin concerns are hard to deal with by yourself. Fine Lines, wrinkles, sun damage, stretch marks, and enlarged pores can make anyone feel self-conscious about their appearance. Fortunately, the skin experts at ICT Eye in Wichita, KS understand that a treatment like collagen induction therapy can reverse some of these visible skin concerns.

But what is collagen induction therapy? Also known as micro-needling, this treatment has quickly grown popular over the last several years as being one of the best minimally invasive aesthetic options to address a wide variety of skin concerns. This treatment is an ideal option for most people with mild-to-moderate concerns and can be used on the face, neck, upper chest, hands, and as a spot treatment on other parts of the body, such as the stomach.

Does Collagen Induction Therapy Really Work?

Micro-needling seems like a very simple treatment, so it’s understandable that many patients may be wondering whether or not this therapy works. Luckily, many clinical studies can attest to the efficacy of this aesthetic treatment. This treatment can help many people restart and refresh the appearance of their skin by inducing collagen and elastin production. With only a few treatments, it’s easy to reverse many of the visible signs of aging.

Elastin

One of the reasons why this treatment is so effective is because it can stimulate elastin production in the skin. Elastin is a special protein is that is related to the connective tissue in your skin. This protein gives your skin the ability to bounce back after stretching, like a rubber band. However, as you age, your skin will produce less elastin, which will make your skin laxer. Increased skin laxity is the leading cause of the formation of fine lines, wrinkles, and loose or sagging skin.

Collagen

Collagen is the most abundant protein in the body and is responsible for providing the skin with structural integrity. This protein helps your skin maintain moisture, firmness, and also aids in wound healing. Again, as your age, you will produce less collagen in the skin, which will then cause the volume of skin to deplete and will allow issues such as fine lines, wrinkles, and scarring to appear more visible.

The reason this treatment is called collagen induction therapy is that it induces the production of collagen. As a professional service, this treatment can greatly improve the appearance of the skin by significantly increasing collagen production deep within the subdermal layers.

What To Expect From Treatment

So, what can you expect from this treatment? You should expect this treatment will only take about 30 to 60 minutes to finish based on how many areas of the face and body you are treating. During this treatment, sterile needles will be used to penetrate the dermal layers to create controlled micro-injuries. These injuries will then stimulate the body’s natural healing response, which will include the production of collagen and elastin fibers.

Most people find this treatment very comfortable, particularly because topical numbing creams will be used to ensure your comfort for the duration of your treatment. Many of the treatment steps resemble a normal facial, and it’s not uncommon to combine this treatment with other aesthetic treatments, such as a hydrafacial, to produce the best results.

How Many Treatment Will You Need?

Most people will need at least two to four treatments to achieve their desired results. Stimulating collagen in the skin takes several weeks, so the more treatments you have, the better your results will be. Once collagen production starts with this treatment, it may take two to four weeks for collagen to mature and have a visible impact on the appearance of your skin.

Of course, the number of treatments you need will be determined by the severity of your skin condition and your aesthetic goals. People who have minor concerns may only need two or three treatments, while people who have moderate scarring or pronounced skin laxity may need four or more treatments.

What Should You Do Before Treatment?

Before your treatment, you should do your best to prepare your skin for your appointment. This means temporarily discontinuing blood-thinning medications and supplements at least three to five days before your treatment, as this will prevent bruising during your recovery. It’s also important to limit your exposure to the sun and to avoid chemical exfoliants that can irritate or dry out skin, including salicylic acid and retinol.

If you have an active skin condition like eczema before your treatment, you will need to reschedule your appointment. You may also need to reschedule your treatment if you have recently had a sunburn.

What Should You Do After Treatment?

After your treatment, you will need to take good care of your skin so you can get the best results possible. One important rule to follow is to avoid direct contact with the sun to reduce your risk of hyperpigmentation during the recovery process. Please wear SPF for two weeks when you plan to be outside.

You should also do your best to keep your skin moist after your treatment, including using products like aloe vera gel or simple moisturizers with ceramides. You should not exfoliate your skin or use chemical exfoliants, including retinoids for at least three to five days after your treatment. And you should be sure to drink plenty of water to help with skin heal.

How Soon Will You See Results?

For most people, it will take several weeks to see any results from this treatment. Most people will see results while they’re still having their treatments, which are spaced about one month apart. This means you may start to see an improvement in your skin appearance four to six weeks after your first appointment.

Your results will continue to improve as more collagen is produced within your skin. Your final results may be visible about three to six months after your last treatment.

How Can You Maintain Your Results?

Ideally, the best way to maintain your results is to have regular treatment appointments. The results of this treatment can last for about six months to one year at a time for most people. You can maintain your results with an annual appointment one to two times a year.

You may also be able to maintain your results with good skincare habits, such as protecting your skin from the sun to prevent premature aging from sun exposure and sun damage. Using high-quality anti-aging skin care products, particularly ones that contain collagen and hyaluronic acid, can also be beneficial to keeping the appearance of your skin firm.

Is Professional Treatment Better Than At-Home Treatment?

If you have heard of collagen induction therapy or microneedling, then you’ve probably heard about derma rollers. Derma rollers are the at-home version of micro-needling, but are they as effective as professional treatments? The simple answer is that no, at-home derma rolling is not as effective as at reversing the visible signs of aging as professional collagen induction therapy. If you want to improve skin laxity, fine lines, wrinkles, and scarring, then you will need to use a treatment like micro-needling performed by a professional.

The truth is that most people use at-home derma rollers incorrectly and that can cause more skin damage. It’s unlikely that at-home derma rollers will have deep enough needles to create any significant results. Incorrectly using at-home derma rollers can also cause skin infections if the rollers are not properly cleaned.

Is This Treatment Right for You?

This treatment is a great option for people who have mild to moderate skin concerns related to texture or pigmentation. This treatment can easily be used to reduce the appearance of enlarged pores, fine lines, wrinkles, skin laxity, dark spots and sun damage, acne scarring, and stretch marks. Because this treatment does not use any chemicals, there’s a very low risk of allergic reaction or other negative side effects.

The best way to determine if this treatment is right for you is to attend a consultation appointment with one of our skin experts. During this appointment, we will examine the condition of your skin and discuss your concerns, as well as go over previous treatments to have tried.

Rejuvenate Your Collagen Production

If you want to make a significant improvement in the appearance of your skin, then you may want to try collagen induction therapy. Collagen is the most abundant protein in your skin, but it depletes as you age and that has a visible effect on your skin appearance. One of the most effective ways to reverse visible aging is to drastically increase collagen production. Contact us at ICT Eye in Wichita, KS today to schedule your consultation.

There are a variety of factors that can contribute to chronic eye dryness, but the root cause is chronic inflammation in the tear ducts and glands. This inflammation can upset the natural moisture balance in the eyes, resulting in irritation and discomfort. At ICT Eye in Wichita, KS, we offer several dry eye treatment options and also have some advice for people suffering from this uncomfortable condition.

Identifying the Causes of Chronic Eye Dryness

We know that inflammation in the tear ducts and glands causes a disruption in tear production, but is there anything we can do to slow down this inflammation in the first place? This depends on what is causing the inflammation. Sometimes it is simply part of the natural aging process, but other times it is caused by a specific health condition, by certain medications, or even by the environment that we live in. The most common causes of decreased tear production include:

• Medical conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, scleroderma, or a thyroid disorder
• Allergic eye disease or chronic environmental allergies 
• Gland blockages such as Meibomian Gland Dysfunction
• Vitamin A deficiency
• Certain medications such as birth control, antihistamines, decongestants, or blood pressure pills
• Recent laser eye surgery 
• Hormone imbalance or menopause
• Frequent use of contact lenses
• Too much computer/screen time

Dry Eye Caused by External Factors

People who live in an extremely dry climate, or who have certain types of central heating or air conditioning systems that significantly reduce humidity levels in the home, can be more prone to dry eye. Harsh winter conditions or high altitudes can also be contributing factors. Living in these types of environments will not necessarily cause dry eye in the first place, but it will certainly exacerbate the problem. Running a humidifier in your home or office can be helpful.

Contact lens use is another common external factor that can dry out the eyes. Not wearing contacts for more than 8 hours at a time, and wearing glasses at least a couple of days per week, can help to mitigate this effect. If you must wear contacts daily, using lubricating eye drops is a must. Be sure to get eye drops from a licensed ophthalmologist, because not all over-the-counter eye drops are effective for chronic dry eye.
 

Dry Eyes Caused by Computer Use

The reason our eyes often feel irritated after spending hours on a computer or smartphone is that this activity dries out the eyes. When staring at a screen, we tend to blink less frequently, leading to faster tear evaporation. Taking a few moments to close the eyes and allow the moisture barrier to rebuild can make a big difference.

The Natural Aging Process

Dry eye syndrome can happen to anyone at any age, but it does become more common after age 45. Women going through menopause are at an even higher risk, as hormone imbalance can be a contributing factor for eye dryness. If you are approaching middle age and noticing the early signs of eye discomfort, being proactive about finding an effective dry eye treatment is a good idea.

Lifestyle Factors

Smoking and overconsumption of alcohol can both contribute to eye dryness. Alcohol is of course very dehydrating, but it can also indirectly contribute to eye problems through setting the groundwork for a variety of diseases and chronic conditions. As for smoking, it not only dries out the eyes but is also linked to several eye diseases such as cataracts, macular degeneration, and uveitis.

Chronic Health Conditions

Dry eyes can be a side effect of serious chronic conditions such as lupus, diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, environmental allergies, Sjogren’s syndrome, scleroderma, and certain thyroid-related conditions. Dryness caused by these conditions can be more severe than that caused by (for example) computer use. If you have dry eyes caused by a health condition, you will likely need more than just eye drops to manage your symptoms.

Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD)

The meibomian glands produce oils that lubricate the eyes – when these glands are malfunctioning, these vital oils are not excreted and tears evaporate too quickly. The oils produced by the meibomian glands are essential to healthy eye function – without them, dryness, pain, and inflammation will soon follow. The most effective treatment for this condition is iLux®, which we will discuss further below.

Medication Side Effects

Many prescription and over-the-counter drugs increase the risk of dry eye. The most common offenders tend to be antihistamines, cold medications, antidepressants, birth control pills, and certain blood pressure prescriptions such as beta-blockers and diuretics. If you are taking any of these medications, speaking to an ophthalmologist about dry eye treatment options will be very helpful.

Eyelid Problems

This is a rarer cause of dry eyes, but eyelids that do not close all the way when a person is blinking or sleeping can cause severe eye dryness. Incomplete closure of the eyelids is a condition called Lagophthalmos, which can lead to a corneal ulcer if left untreated.

Laser Eye Surgery

The good news about dry eyes caused by laser eye surgery is that it is almost always temporary. While it can be quite bothersome for several weeks following the procedure, it will normally resolve itself with diligent eye drop use. Your ophthalmologist will recommend a dry eye treatment that can be used on a short-term basis.
 

Finding a Dry Eye Treatment That Works

Whatever the cause of your dry eyes might be, it can normally be managed with some simple treatments and lifestyle changes. Artificial teardrops and ointments prescribed by a licensed ophthalmologist are a good place to start, but there are also some medically supervised treatment options that can be helpful if your condition is chronic and particularly bothersome.

If you are experiencing pain, burning, itching, blurred vision, redness, or a gritty sensation in the eyes, it is important to seek medical help as soon as possible. Finding a dry eye treatment plan that works for you can keep your condition from getting progressively worse.

Using iLux® Treatment for Gland Problems

If you have a more complex dry eye problem such as Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD), eye drops will not be the solution. In this case, we recommend medically supervised treatment using iLux®, which is an FDA-approved device that removes blockages from these glands. Using carefully applied heat and compression to the eye area, this device treats MGD quickly and effectively without surgery.

Cliradex Wipes

Cliradex wipes are moist towelettes with moisturizing and anti-inflammatory properties. They are also anti-microbial and effective at treating a variety of eye health issues. Talk to your ophthalmologist to find out if these wipes would be helpful for your particular eye condition.

Using the Right Eye Drops

There are countless brands of eye drops on the market but not all of them are created equal. Some of them, in fact, might even make your condition worse. Before heading to the pharmacy, talk to a board certified Ophthalmologist who can examine your eyes and recommend the best type of drops or other topical product for your particular case.

Lifestyle Changes

We’ve already talked about limiting exposure to smoke and alcohol, but there are other small lifestyle changes you can make to improve your eye health. Drinking plenty of water and eating a healthy diet that includes omega 3 fatty acids (either in fish or supplement form) is a good place to start. Since dry eyes can also be caused by a vitamin A deficiency, making sure this important vitamin is included in your diet is a must.

Wearing sunglasses not just in the sun, but also when it’s windy, is a great lifelong practice to protect your eyes. We know that UV light is damaging to the eyes, but wind can also be dangerous. It can be extremely drying, and can have the added risk of blowing dust and debris into the eyes.

A Word About Makeup

Hypoallergenic eye makeup is usually not problematic, but we need to be aware that putting on too much mascara or eyeliner can actually block the glands that make tears. So, use a light touch when applying eye makeup.

Finding the Best Ophthalmologist in Kansas

If you are suffering from dryness and discomfort associated with dry eye syndrome, contact us today at ICT Eye in Wichita, KS. We would be pleased to set up an initial appointment to examine your eyes and determine what the best course of treatment would be.

As we grow older, the shape of the tissue around our eyes changes. We might start to experience some sagging skin, increased laxity in the muscle, and too much fat. Many people also struggle with bags under their eyes, which can appear due to genetic factors, because of excess stress, or after a long period of suboptimal sleep. Here at ICT Eye and Beautiful Eyes in Wichita, KS, we can perform eyelid surgery, or blepharoplasty Wichita KS, to solve these issues.

This procedure can help to rejuvenate your facial features, thereby not only making you appear years younger but also much more alert and awake. What’s more, it can prevent you from losing your eyesight if your upper eyelid is drooping into your eyes. Let’s have a closer look at how the procedure is performed and what you can expect both before and after treatment.

How Does Blepharoplasty Wichita KS Work?

When you begin to notice changes to the area around your eyelids, you should get in touch with a doctor sooner rather than later. Having surgery early could be easier because the intervention will be smaller and less invasive. You can start by booking your initial consultation here at the clinic with Dr. Burgoyne, who will analyze your cosmetic or medical concern and let you know whether eyelid surgery is the best option for you.

To make sure your outcome is satisfactory, we will discuss your desired results and plan which tissues will be removed or reshaped. Once a final decision has been made, we can book you in for your surgery. Your specialist will tell you what you need to do beforehand to ensure a smooth treatment and how you can optimize your recovery process and results.

Before the Procedure

Eyelid surgery is an invasive procedure, so we need to thoroughly check your medical record before approving you for this treatment. During your initial consultation, you should bring all information regarding past and current medications and interventions. If you take blood-thinning drugs or supplements, you will need to pause them temporarily because they could complicate the procedure.

We will also conduct a physical examination that might include measuring certain parts of your eyelids and testing your tear production. What’s more, a vision examination will be necessary, particularly if you are hoping to make an insurance claim. Prior to the operation, we will take photographs of your eyes from different angles, so you’ll be able to evaluate the success of your surgeon’s work.

During Surgery

On the day of your procedure, you will come to the clinic and have numbing agent applied to your face. In most cases, blepharoplasty in Wichita KS is performed on an outpatient basis, so you won’t need full anesthesia or an overnight stay at the hospital. However, we do anesthetize the area around your eyes to make the treatment pain-free for you. We may also administer some intravenous medication, which will help take the stress out of the treatment.

While some people have surgery on both the upper and lower eyelids, others only have one or the other. Your surgeon will carefully cut the tissue and redistribute and remove excess skin and fat. If there is also a problem with the muscle around your eyes, they will re-shape it. Then, they will carefully close the cut and allow you to go into a recovery room.

Recovering from Your Operation

Depending on the length of your operation and how comfortable you feel, you can go home within a few hours. However, you’ll be given certain instructions to follow as you recover. Always use the ointments we recommend because they are designed specifically for people who have had eyelid surgery. You can apply ice to the area and should clean it carefully on a daily basis to prevent infection.

For several days after the operation, you will need to avoid rubbing your eyes, smoking, and strenuous physical exercise that causes you to strain. During the night, you will most likely be asked to sleep with your head raised on a tall pillow. If you go outside, you have to wear tinted sunglasses that protect you from sunlight and wind. In some cases, you’ll need to come back to the clinic a few days after your operation to have the stitches removed.

Are the Results Permanent?

The vast majority of our patients are extremely pleased with the results of the surgery, and they can see a significant change to the way the area around their eyes looks. Those who had trouble seeing because their eyelid was droopy experience increased vision and therefore an augmented quality of life. Others notice that they appear younger and more awake.

In some cases, the results from eyelid surgery can last for the rest of the patient’s life, but in other cases, the droopy eyelids return. This could be because of the natural aging process or because of lifestyle factors. To maintain the best results possible, you should avoid excessive exposure to sunlight, stop smoking, and live healthily by getting plenty of exercise and eating nutritionally balanced meals.

Who Can Benefit from Eyelid Surgery?

Not everyone who suffers from cosmetic concerns is a good candidate for eyelid surgery, and you will need to speak to your surgeon before being approved for the procedure. At the clinic, we will accept you for an operation if you are concerned about the look and feel of your face or if you are experiencing vision problems as a result of your eyelid shape.

We will also make sure that you are in good general health because we want the surgery to be as safe as possible. By being honest with us and disclosing all medical information, you can make sure you aren’t putting yourself at risk.

Your Eyelids Changed Due to Aging

The primary reason why people would like to undergo Blepharoplasty in Wichita KS is because they are experiencing a cosmetic concern related to their eyes. They might look older than they actually are, or they may appear constantly tired. This can be extremely discouraging and affect a patient’s self-esteem, so we are happy to approve eyelid surgery in such cases. When you come to speak to us, we can assess whether the damage you’ve experienced warrants surgery.

You Have Trouble Seeing

Some of the most successful operations are on people who have trouble seeing because their upper eyelid covers their eyes. This can be extremely distressing and cause a number of issues. For instance, you can’t drive well when you aren’t able to see, so you might have to give up your license unless you can have the issue fixed.

Fortunately, eyelid surgery is a reasonably straightforward and quick procedure. For people with severe eyelid problems, it can improve their quality of life and allow them to participate in all the activities they loved before they developed the problem.

You Are in Good Health

As discussed, we will ask you for your medical records when you come to us for the first time. This is to ensure that the surgery will be safe for you and that we won’t be putting your health at risk. Because eyelid surgery doesn’t require a general anesthetic, most people will be eligible for it. However, if you are currently suffering from an illness like cancer or serious circulatory disease, you might need to look for an alternative.

Similarly, current or past problems with your eyes could preclude you from taking part. Issues like dry eyes or active infections are always a contraindication and need to be resolved before we can proceed. This is why you will be tested thoroughly prior to being booked in for surgery.

Restore Your Beautiful Eye Shape Now

If your eyelids have changed as a result of the natural aging process or due to an illness, you should come to the clinic and speak to us. Although blepharoplasty Wichita KS is often a cosmetic intervention, it can also prevent vision trouble by removing tissue that droops into your eyes. Our experts can discuss with you whether you are a good candidate and what to expect from surgery.

In most cases, the procedure is quite straightforward, and you can recover in your own home. Once you have had eyelid surgery, your results are permanent, so you can enjoy a bright, open look for the rest of your life. Get in touch with us now at ICT Eye and Beautiful Eyes in Wichita, KS to book your initial consultation with us. Dr. Burgoyne will be more than happy to welcome you to the clinic and help you figure out the best way forward.