Episode #96
Episode 96: Start Here Before You Book Your First Aesthetic Appointment
f you have been curious about Botox, filler, or any aesthetic treatment but do not know where to start or who to trust, this is the episode to listen to first. In This Episode, We Answer: Is Botox safe and does it work long term? What is the difference between filler and Sculptra? What is PRF and how is it different from PRP? What should I look for when choosing an injector? What are the real risks of dermal filler I should know about? Key Takeaways: A good injector says no. If someone is giving you a laundry list of everything you need the moment you walk in, that is not the approach that produces the most natural results. Find someone who gives you the mirror first and asks what you love about your face. Vascular occlusion is rare but real, and every patient should know what to look for: severe pain that is getting worse not better, skin that turns white and does not refill with color. If your injector has not told you this, that is a red flag. Filler lasts longer than the product monograph says, especially high density fillers. Many people are adding to filler that is still present, which is how over-augmentation happens. Ask your injector to review your before photos before adding more. Quick Answers (FAQ): Q: Is Botox safe and does it work long term? A: Yes. The 2006 Botox twin study showed that one twin who received Botox consistently for 13 years looked significantly younger than the twin who had one or two treatments. The key is consistency and appropriate dosing. When Botox wears off, you return to where you were before, not worse. We go deeper into this at 38:30. Q: What is the difference between filler and Sculptra? A: Filler (hyaluronic acid) adds volume immediately and is dissolvable. Sculptra (polylactic acid) is a biostimulator that is reabsorbed after injection, then gradually stimulates your body to produce its own collagen over three to six months. Results from Sculptra can last up to two years. We go deeper into this at 27:00. Q: What is PRF and how is it different from PRP? A: Both are blood concentrates where your blood is spun in a centrifuge. PRF is spun slower and retains white blood cells including mesenchymal stem cells, creating a more concentrated healing response. Unlike filler, PRF cannot cause migration, allergic reaction, or lumps. Dr. Nicola uses it particularly for under-eye hollowing and brightness. We go deeper into this at 13:30. Q: What are the real risks of dermal filler? A: Common risks include bruising, swelling, and soreness. The more serious but rare risk is vascular occlusion, where filler blocks a blood vessel. If caught early and dissolved, it can be reversed. Signs include severe pain getting worse, and skin that turns white and stays white. In extremely rare cases, injections near the nose and glabella have caused blindness due to vascular anatomy in that area. We go deeper into this at 33:30. Resources Mentioned: Botox twin study (2006): search "Botox twin study" to find the photos Procedures discussed: Botox/Dysport/Xeomin, dermal filler, PRF, microneedling, Sculptra, HydraFacial, BBL, Moxie Laser Genesis, Morpheus8 Book with Dr. Dasha or Dr. Nicola: advancedwomenshealth.ca Related Episodes: Episode 83: Hidradenitis Suppurativa with Dr. Dasha — skin conditions from the inside out Connect With Us: Website: advancedwomenshealth.ca Instagram: @drsarah_nd | @advancedwomenshealth Book with Dr. Nicola (Squamish) or Dr. Dasha (Vancouver): advancedwomenshealth.ca Leave a review: wherever you're listening, it helps other women find this episode
