How does it work?

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From a Western medical perspective, cosmetic acupuncture works by inducing microtraumas to the skin, which lead your body to increase blood flow and the production of collagen and elastin for wound healing. Acupuncture also causes the production and release of neurotransmitters. From an Eastern medicine perspective, Qi and blood are brought to the face and neck, Qi is lifted, and the body's energy systems are balanced.

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How does BOTOX® compare to the Mei Zen face and neck lift procedures?

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Mei Zen targets the entire face or the entire neck, including areas that BOTOX® cannot treat, and increases production of collagen and elastin in the skin. In addition, Mei Zen is a holistic beauty treatment that benefits the entire body. This treatment requires a time commitment of 10 treatments over 5 weeks, and the physical results can be subtle to dramatic, depending upon your health and habits. Mei Zen face and neck lift acupuncture will not yield the dramatic results seen with BOTOX®; however, in addition to cosmetic improvements, you will generally feel healthier while retaining full control of your facial expressions. 

 

BOTOX® temporarily weakens targeted muscles in the face, and the results are typically dramatic and fully evident within 2 weeks. This treatment does not improve your health in any way, but can certainly improve how you feel about your appearance. It can lessen the appearance of wrinkles on your forehead, between the eyes [the “W” wrinkle], and beside your eyes [crow's feet], but it cannot be used for wrinkling and sagging of the cheeks, jaw, and neck line.

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What are the risks to cosmetic acupuncture?

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Cosmetic acupuncture is very low risk, similar to other acupuncture treatments. Minor bruising may occur, and Dr. Orsburn will use arnica gel on your skin prior to each treatment. It is recommended that you use arnica [widely available at groceries, drug stores, and health food stores] during the weeks of your treatment to help prevent bruising. Otherwise, the post-treatment instructions are the same as for non-cosmetic acupuncture.

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How many treatments do I need to see results?

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Your skin's collagen and elastin matrix requires 4 to 5 weeks of regular treatment to show appreciable change.  Based upon this, the minimum number of treatments to the face or neck is 10 treatments over 5 weeks.  Thereafter, monthly maintenance treatments are recommended.

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What can I expect during my treatment?

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On your first visit, Dr. Orsburn will spend time reviewing your medical history and discussing the treatment. Please wear loose-fitting clothing that comfortably exposes the knees and elbows [or bring shorts and a tee shirt]. First, a full body-balancing treatment will be started. While those needles are in place, Dr. Orsburn will place the face or neck treatment needles. Expect your first visit to take around 90 minutes and subsequent visits around 60 min.

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Can I do other treatments to my face during my 5 weeks of facial acupuncture?

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No.  But your regular cleansing and moisturizing routine is encouraged!