If there’s one piece of advice top Sacramento-based plastic surgeon Dr. Jeffrey Sweat wants you to remember: wear sunscreen daily, especially after a plastic surgery procedure. This one simple daily habit can play a pivotal role in maintaining aesthetic results and preventing complications such as discolouration or scarring.

Why Sunscreen is Important Post-Plastic Surgery

At J. Sweat Plastic Surgery, located in Sacramento, California, we always highlight to our patients the role of sunscreen in the healing and recovery process. Especially after undergoing procedures that involve the skin, such as laser resurfacing, rhinoplasty, or even non-surgical treatments like chemical peels.

Prevention of Discolouration and Scarring

Naked to the human eye, newly formed skin is more vulnerable to sun damage. Sun exposure without protection can prolong swelling, increase redness, or lead to discoloration, affecting the aesthetic outcome of your procedure. Regular application of a broad-spectrum sunscreen blocks harmful UVA and UVB rays, significantly reducing the risk of post-operative pigmentation and scarring.

Debunking Sunscreen Myths Post-Plastic Surgery

Despite clear instructions from physicians, myths surrounding sunscreen usage after plastic surgery continue to circulate. Let’s clarify these misconceptions:

Myth 1: Sunscreen is Not Required on a Cloudy Day

Regardless of the weather condition, harmful UV rays can penetrate clouds and reach your skin. Therefore, it’s crucial to apply sunscreen daily, whether it’s sunny or overcast, in Sacramento, CA.

Myth 2: You Can Skip Sunscreen If Indoors

Sunscreen is necessary even when indoors. UV rays, particularly UVA rays, can penetrate through window glass, causing skin damage. Whether at home or visiting the charming sights of Sacramento, remember to have your sunscreen on.

Myth 3: Darker Skin Tones Don’t Need Sunscreen

While darker skin tones have more natural protection against the sun’s UV rays than lighter skin tones, they are still susceptible to sun damage and skin cancer. Regardless of skin tone, everyone should use sunscreen to protect their skin from harmful UV radiation.

Myth 4: Waterproof Sunscreen Doesn’t Need Reapplication

Waterproof sunscreen may provide some resistance to water, but it still needs to be reapplied regularly, especially after swimming, sweating, or towel drying. Continuous exposure to water can diminish its effectiveness, so it’s essential to reapply as directed on the product label to maintain protection throughout the day.

Emphasizing Professional Advice

Recovery and the care needed post-procedure are as critical as the surgery itself. As Dr. Sweat points out, using sunscreen daily post-surgery is not just a recommendation but a significant part of the post-op care routine that helps ensure effective healing and lasting results. To learn more about how to maintain the aesthetic results of your plastic surgery procedure, schedule an appointment with J. Sweat Plastic Surgery, your trusted plastic surgery clinic in Sacramento, California.

HydraFacial treatments have emerged as a popular solution for rejuvenating and revitalizing the skin. But how do you know if you’re a good candidate for HydraFacial treatment? Let’s take a look at what exactly a HydraFacial is and what makes a good candidate for the treatment.

Understanding HydraFacial

HydraFacial treatment begins with a thorough cleansing of the skin, eliminating any traces of impurities. Next, light exfoliation is done to sweep away dead skin cells, unveiling a fresh and revitalized complexion. The magic truly begins with the extraction phase where clogged pores are effortlessly cleared, paving the way for clearer, smoother skin texture. Finally, a variety of hydrating serums are applied to the skin to moisturize, protect, and rejuvenate the skin.

Determining Your Candidacy

While HydraFacial is generally safe and effective for most individuals, there are a few considerations to keep in mind when assessing your candidacy:

Skin Type

HydraFacial is designed to benefit all skin types, including sensitive skin. Whether you have oily, dry, combination, or acne-prone skin, a HydraFacial treatment can be customized to address your specific concerns. The procedure can help balance oil production, hydrate dry areas, and reduce inflammation, making it suitable for a range of skin conditions.

Skin Concerns

HydraFacial can address several skin concerns, making it a versatile treatment option. If you’re looking to improve the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, acne, or congested pores, a HydraFacial can be an excellent choice. By exfoliating dead skin cells, extracting impurities, and infusing nourishing serums, the treatment promotes a more youthful and vibrant complexion.

Sensitivity and Allergies

If you have sensitive skin or known allergies, it’s important to communicate with your specialist. They can adjust the treatment to suit your needs and ensure that any potential irritants or allergens are avoided during the procedure. HydraFacial is generally well-tolerated, but it’s always advisable to discuss any concerns with your provider beforehand.

Medical Conditions

Individuals with certain medical conditions or skin disorders should consult with their healthcare professional before undergoing a HydraFacial treatment. Conditions such as rosacea, eczema, dermatitis, or active sunburns may require special attention or modifications to the treatment to prevent any adverse reactions.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, it is recommended to consult with your healthcare provider before undergoing any cosmetic procedures. While a HydraFacial is generally considered safe, it’s essential to prioritize the well-being of both you and your baby during this period.

Schedule A Consultation

HydraFacial treatments offer a convenient and effective way to revitalize and improve the health of your skin. With its versatility and ability to address various skin concerns,  the HydraFacial is suitable for most individuals. To determine if you’re a good candidate for the treatment, we recommend you schedule a consultation with Dr. Jeffrey Sweat and his team. He will assess your skin’s condition, listen to your concerns, and customize the treatment plan to meet your individual needs.

To schedule a consultation today, contact us at J. Sweat Plastic Surgery in Sacramento, CA today! You can either call us at (916) 400-0822 or use our online booking tool. We can’t wait to help you achieve your aesthetic goals.

Are you bothered by the appearance of your skin and are looking to make a change with a non invasive solution? Perhaps you are seeking a more even skin tone or skin texture, are dealing with oily skin, enlarged pores, sun damage or brown spots, or more. If this is the case, the HydraFacial may be for you!

There are plenty of reasons to consider a HydraFacial as a special treatment before a big event or even as a regular part of your skincare regimen. Here’s what to know about the HydraFacial and how it can transform your skin for a brighter, healthier look.

1. What is a HydraFacial?

The HydraFacial a medical-grade skin treatment that offers deep cleansing, exfoliation, extraction, and hydration for all skin types and tones. The result is radiant, healthy-looking skin. Our team can customize the HydraFacial to address your specific skin concerns. It only takes about 30 minutes, and no downtime is required afterward. You can immediately resume your normal activities afterward with instantly noticeable results.

2. How Does It Work?

The HydraFacial device uses a patented technology called the Vortex-Fusion delivery system to cleanse, exfoliate, and hydrate the skin all at the same time. The handpiece delivers a stream of cleansing solution to the face while the exfoliating tip helps remove dead skin cells and congestion from the pores. The hydrating solution is then applied to the skin, which helps lock in moisture, giving the skin a plumper, more youthful appearance and brightening the complexion. Special booster serums filled with active ingredients can then be applied to the face to address your unique skin concerns. Finally, a specialized mask is applied to help soothe and protect the skin, further improving the appearance of the skin.

3. What Are the Benefits?

HydraFacials offer several benefits for both the face and body. The deep cleansing action helps to unclog pores and prevent breakouts, while the exfoliation brightens the skin complexion and reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. And intense moisturizers help to improve dry skin and elasticity and gives the skin a dewy, radiant glow. In short, the HydraFacial is a great way to “reset” your skin and improve a variety of skin concerns.

4. Who is a Candidate?

Anyone who wishes to improve overall skin health, combat skin aging, and achieve a radiant skin tone can benefit from the HydraFacial treatment. This treatment is even great for sensitive skin. However, it is important to note that you should not receive a HydraFacial treatment if you have active rashes, open wounds in the treatment area, certain skin conditions, a history of severe allergies, or are pregnant or breastfeeding. If you are interested in learning if you are a good candidate, please contact us today to schedule a consultation.

5. Are There Any Side Effects?

While HydraFacials are relatively gentle, proven safe, and do not typically cause any major side effects, some people experience slight redness or irritation after their HydraFacial session. That is usually temporary and will resolve independently within a few hours. Those with extremely sensitive skin may notice more prominent redness than others. More serious side effects such as bruising, swelling, or infection can occur in rare cases. Most people can feel free to wear makeup one day after treatment. Your skincare specialist can ensure that your HydraFacial is tailored to your exact skin type and preferences.

6. How Often Should I Get a HydraFacial?

The answer to how many treatments you need depends on your skin type and concerns. For example, if you want to improve your skin’s overall appearance, we recommend getting a HydraFacial every 4 to 6 weeks to remove dead skin cells. If you have special concerns like acne, fine lines, and wrinkles, we may recommend getting a HydraFacial more frequently, such as every 2 to 4 weeks. Ultimately, your skincare specialist will work with you to create a treatment plan that meets your individual needs.

7. How Much Does a HydraFacial Cost?

The cost of a HydraFacial can vary depending on the practice and the location. You can, however, expect to pay around $175 for a single session. If you opt for a package, the price will be lower per session. For example, a package of three may cost anywhere between $500-$720. You can also purchase HydraFacial packages that include additional treatments, such as dermaplaning or microneedling. The price of these packages will be higher, but they offer a more comprehensive experience.

Schedule an Appointment

HydraFacials are a great option for virtually anyone of all skin tones; if you’re looking for ways to rejuvenate your skin, combat common skin problems, and maintain skin health, a HydraFacial may be right for you. Oftentimes, patients report seeing noticeable changes in their skin after just one treatment session!

Dr. Jeffrey Sweat at J. Sweat Plastic Surgery is a board-certified plastic surgeon specializing in HydraFacial treatments in Sacramento, CA. He has been providing industry-leading non-surgical treatments for over ten years and customizes each HydraFacial treatment to address the unique needs of his patients. Contact our Sacramento, CA office today by calling or filling out our online form to schedule a consultation or to learn more about our other skincare treatments such as chemical peels.

A facelift is a surgery performed to address visible signs of aging in the face and neck. When considering the procedure, the main concern for many patients is whether the surgery is worth the risk. However, when you look at the many benefits of traditional facelift surgery, they can far out way the risks.

Addresses Visible Signs of Aging

The surgical procedure addresses many visible signs of aging in one step. Most concerns on the face are due to aging, and the natural aging process leads to changes in the appearance of the face and the texture of the skin.

During your consultation, you will be able to discuss your concerns with Dr. Sweat. He will listen to your questions and concerns and build a facelift treatment plan for you. And whether you’re struggling with fine lines and wrinkles or sagging skin, a facelift can help you regain a more youthful facial appearance.

Gets Rid of a Double Chin

The double chin is caused by excess fat around the neck, which can cause a lot of frustration. While diet and exercise can change some things, they don’t always work on a double chin. Luckily, a facelift can help eliminate a double chin and give you the contoured look you desire. This is especially the case when a facelift is combined with a neck lift.

Say Goodbye to Jowls

The facelift procedure also helps in getting rid of jowls. Jowls refer to the excess skin around your face and chin, and they can be caused by a variety of factors. A facelift is a perfect procedure to address the excess skin and can provide you with a tighter and slimmer jawline.

Eliminates Excess Skin

Due to old age, sagging or loose skin begins to develop. This is because the collagen levels in the body decrease. And at a certain point, you may reach a time when prescription creams no longer help. A facelift will eliminate the excess skin and help to tighten the neck and facial muscles, thus restoring a  more youthful appearance.

Reduces Wrinkles

A facelift can also reduce deep wrinkles. Most of the time, these deep wrinkles form between the mouth and nose and between mouth and chin. A decrease in collagen is often what causes this, but by tightening the skin and facial muscles and redraping the skin, a facelift can reduce the appearance of these deep wrinkles.

For Men and Women

A facelift is also beneficial among aging men who wish to regain their youthful appearance. A lot of focus has been put on aging women’s skin issues; however, a facelift can also address aging signs such as sagging skin in men too.

For Any Age

Anyone can undergo facelift surgery. There exists a popular belief that a facelift is a procedure for old people. However, if you are not satisfied with your facial appearance, you can undergo this procedure at any time.

Pairs Well with Other Surgeries

A facelift also pairs well with other cosmetic procedures. For example, eyelid surgery or a neck lift can be done simultaneously with a facelift. Having two surgeries at the same time can be very convenient for those with busy schedules or those who want to see results all at once.

Barely Visible Scars

If you are worried about scars after the surgery, you can rest assured that the procedure is designed to ensure your scars are practically invisible. Dr. Sweat will place the incisions in an inconspicuous place. He will also provide you with aftercare instructions to make sure your incisions heal properly.

Natural-Looking Results

Lastly, a facelift can also help you regain a smooth, youthful, and completely rejuvenated facial appearance. When Dr. Sweat skillfully tightens your skin during a facelift, you don’t have to worry about ending up with that pulled or stretched look. Your results will be completely natural-looking. People will know something is different about you, but they won’t know what. They’ll just know that you look great!

Schedule A Consultation

When considering having a facelift, it is important to seek consultation from a skilled plastic surgeon like Dr. Jeffrey Sweat at J. Sweat Plastic Surgery. He is a well-trained plastic surgeon who can help you achieve your desired results. By scheduling a consultation, he will help you understand what the procedure entails and how it can help you meet your desired appearance.

One of the best and most important ways to avoid skin damage, dark circles, and signs of aging over time is to make sure you have a daily, effective skincare regimen that’s as habitual as brushing your teeth.  Your regimen should include a variety of skincare products to ensure your skin is hydrated, glowing, and healthy. But it can be hard to know which products are best. That’s why we created this guide.

If you already have the skin care basics, this guide can help you guarantee you’ve got everything you need. If you don’t have a skincare routine at all, here’s some information to get you started.

Use Sunscreen Daily

It might seem pointless, but using a broad-spectrum sunscreen daily is one of the best ways to prevent things like sun damage and general wear on your skin over time. Why? Because even if it isn’t sunny out, UV rays can damage your skin. It doesn’t matter whether you have a lighter or darker skin tone, sensitive or dry skin, oily or dull skin, or combination skin, sun protection is vital.

There are a variety of sunscreen formulas; choose the one you like best. Wearing sunscreen daily ensures you’re protecting yourself from sun damage and decreasing your risk of skin cancer.

Hyaluronic Acid

You’ve likely heard of hyaluronic acid. It’s in many different skin care products and in the dermal fillers you can find at J. Sweat Plastic Surgery. One of the best ways to replenish dehydrated skin is to add products containing hyaluronic acid to your skin care routine.

Your body contains this substance naturally, but by adding more, you ensure your skin will retain moisture since hyaluronic acid is considered a humectant. This means it draws moisture from the environment into the skin for increased hydration.

Include Growth Factors

Growth factors do a lot of good things for your skin. They essentially jumpstart your skin’s natural process of rejuvenation, which includes replicating skin cells, reducing swelling and inflammation, and boosting collagen production.

Growth factors can be a natural treatment for multiple concerns like wrinkles, dark spots, and laxity. And since they are already found in your skin factors,  they generally work great with any skin type.

Treat and Prevent Acne with Retin-A

You might have heard of tretinoin, which is an effective acne treatment many individuals add to their skincare routine. It’s a type of Retin-A, a substance that affects the growth of skin cells. Retin-A regulates the skin cycle so you don’t have dead skin cells on your skin that often end up clogging pores and leading to acne. Retin-A can be effective at decreasing inflammation as well.

Sometimes prescribed by aestheticians to patients planning to undergo skin treatments like chemical peels, Retin-A can help quickly produce new, healthy skin cells. If you struggle with troublesome acne, be sure to include this in your skincare regimen.

Use Hydroquinone to Fight Keratosis

Hydroquinone can have some great benefits for your skin when it comes to keratosis or a build-up of keratin. Keratin is generally found in the hair and nails and can cause unfavorable issues on the skin, like bumps, scales, or lesions. Hydroquinone can be highly effective at removing keratin and fighting off keratosis caused by sun damage or exposure to certain chemicals.

Avoid Damage to Your Skin

This is one of the most important steps and can come in many forms. Avoiding sun exposure by covering up and wearing sunscreen can do wonders for keeping your skin healthy and functioning. Quitting smoking can also do a lot to benefit your skin. Smoking works against your skin in many ways, including reducing the blood flow to your skin cells and depleting important nutrients that help your skin rejuvenate itself. This is why many smokers tend to appear to age faster than those who don’t. It’s also why many plastic surgeons recommend patients don’t smoke before or after their procedure.

If you’re looking to take your skincare regimen to the next level, we offer proven SkinMedica® products to help your skin thrive. Contact our office with any questions.