One of the most common questions I’m asked as a double board‑certified facial plastic surgeon is: “Should I have a facelift, or is there something else I can do to lift and tighten my face, jowls, and neck?”

The answer is always individualized.

Patients at the far ends of the aging spectrum are usually the easiest to guide. Younger patients are typically excellent candidates for non‑surgical treatments. Older patients with significant skin laxity are generally best served by surgery—unless they have medical contraindications or simply prefer not to undergo an operation.

It’s the patients in between—those with moderate aging changes—where my forty years of facial plastic surgery experience becomes especially valuable. Today, we have outstanding non‑surgical options for individuals who are not yet ready for a face or neck lift, for whom surgery would be premature, or who cannot have surgery for medical or personal reasons.

I use a wide range of advanced modalities to help patients look refreshed and naturally rejuvenated. Like the rich oils on a painter’s palette, these treatments can be blended and layered to create the most harmonious aesthetic result.

During your initial consultation, we discuss your goals—what you love about your appearance and what you’d like to improve. The key question becomes: “Are you ready for a surgical face/neck lift, or do you prefer a non‑surgical rejuvenation plan?”

Your treatment plan is then customized and may be completed gradually over time or all at once, depending on your preferences.

Bioregenerative therapies such as platelet‑rich plasma (PRP), platelet‑rich fibrin (PRF), exosomes, and collagen/elastin stimulators like Sculptra and hyperdilute Radiesse can be combined with injectables and energy‑based devices—including Sofwave, Profound RF, Ultherapy, Fraxel Restore/Dual (non‑ablative), and Fraxel Repair fractionated CO₂ laser—to create a tailored approach for each patient.

My philosophy of beauty can be summarized in four words: “No one should know.”

No one should know you’ve had anything done—except you and me.

Please feel free to contact me with any questions about the latest non‑surgical rejuvenation options or whether facial surgery may be right for you.

Be well!

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The internet has opinions about mixing Sculptra® with future facelift plans, and they can be confusing to navigate. You’ll find surgeons who swear it causes complications and injectors who insist it’s perfectly fine. Both camps share partial truths while missing the complete picture.

Here’s what you need to know: the relationship between Sculptra® and future surgery isn’t black and white. Your outcome depends on who does your injections, how they do them, and who performs your eventual surgery. Let’s sort through the noise together.

Table of Contents

• What Is Sculptra®?
• Don’t Use Sculptra® Before a Facelift: Fact or Myth?
• Is It Safe to Get Sculptra® Before a Facelift?
• Can I Get Sculptra® After a Facelift?
• Are There Other Treatments That May Affect a Future Facelift?
• Learn More About Sculptra® in Encino

What Is Sculptra®?

Sculptra® isn’t your standard filler. Unlike traditional fillers that simply add volume, Sculptra® stimulates your body’s collagen production over several months in a bio-regenerative fashion. The poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) particles are natural sugar molecules that work beneath the surface, prompting your body to rebuild its own support structure. It is the same material that has been used for decades in absorbable sutures.

It was first FDA-approved in 2004 for cosmetic use, and since then, it’s become a go-to treatment for patients who want something long-lasting without jumping into surgery too soon.

Sculptra® is for you if:

• Your face has lost volume, but you want gradual, subtle results
• You prefer looking naturally refreshed rather than “done”
• You’re between 30 and 65 with good skin elasticity
• You want results that build over time and last two years or more
• You’d rather stimulate your body’s own collagen than rely solely on synthetic fillers

Don’t Use Sculptra® Before a Facelift: Fact or Myth?

While opinions are divided on the matter, this is ultimately a myth. It’s true, injectables can make the underlying facial tissues more challenging to work with in some cases, but it all depends on the skill of your provider. Responsibly administered Sculptra® by an expert physician can actually improve your facelift results when timed correctly. The collagen stimulation creates thicker, healthier skin that surgeons often find easier to work with. The problem arises when inexperienced injectors treat Sculptra® like any other filler, placing it too superficially or using excessive amounts in areas where surgeons need clean tissue planes.

Dr. Michael Persky is an expert surgeon injector who knows facial anatomy inside and out. As a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon, he understands and respects both the art and science of facial aesthetics. He is able to place Sculptra® deep enough to avoid interference while still achieving beautiful results. Dr. Persky has performed numerous facelifts on his own patients whom he injected previously. The surgeries all went well, though in some cases the surgery may have taken 10 to 15 minutes longer to complete.

Is It Safe to Get Sculptra® Before a Facelift?

Absolutely, when you follow smart protocols. The magic lies in choosing an injector who views your face as a long-term project, not a quick fix. During your Sculptra® consultation, Dr. Persky will ask about your future surgical plans and adjust his technique accordingly. Depth of injection becomes paramount. So does moderation and restraint. The temptation to overcorrect with any injectable can create issues later, but Dr. Persky is a skilled provider who resists this urge.

It’s recommended to wait at least six months between your last Sculptra® treatment and your facelift. This interval allows the collagen remodeling process to stabilize. Some patients may prefer longer gaps, up to a year, though this conservative approach isn’t always necessary.

Can I Get Sculptra® After a Facelift?

Yes, and many patients find this combination particularly powerful. Once you’re fully healed from surgery, usually after three to six months, Sculptra® can accentuate and optimize your new contours. Your facelift addresses sagging and repositions tissues, while Sculptra® continues to support skin quality and subtle volume restoration. Using Sculptra® after facelift surgery complements the results and often eliminates the need for revision secondary surgeries.

This partnership between surgery and injectables represents modern facial rejuvenation at its finest. You’re not choosing between options anymore. The facelift provides structural correction while Sculptra® maintains and refines those improvements over time.

Are There Other Treatments That May Affect a Future Facelift?

Dr. Persky is often asked about other “collagen” stimulating procedures and whether they will affect future facelifts.

Hyperdilute RADIESSE® with platelet-rich plasma is used to stimulate collagen in the face and neck. Ultherapy® is used to lift and tighten the skin and muscles of the face and neck. Like Sculptra®, both of these treatments, when performed properly by an expert physician, do not preclude future facelift and/or neck lift surgery.

Learn More About Sculptra® in Encino

Double board-certified facial plastic surgeon Dr. Michael Persky offers guidance that addresses both your immediate goals and your long-term vision for facial rejuvenation. Our practice specializes in creating natural results through both non-surgical treatments like Sculptra® and surgical procedures, viewing them as complementary tools in your aesthetic toolkit.

If you’re considering Sculptra® or planning for a future facelift, we’d love to guide you through the process. Call us today at (818) 501-3223 or fill out our online contact form to schedule your consultation in Encino, CA.

The post Is Sculptra® Going to Affect My Future Facelift? appeared first on Michael A. Persky, M.D., F.A.C.S..

Lip augmentation can be a simple, non-surgical way to enhance your appearance and give your lips a plump yet natural-looking shape. But one of the first questions most people ask is, “How much does lip augmentation cost?” The answer depends on a few key factors, which we’ll break down below.

Table of Contents

• What Are My Lip Augmentation Options?
  • Restylane® Kysse
  • JUVÉDERM® Ultra Plus XC
  • JUVÉDERM VOLBELLA® XC
• What Influences the Cost of Lip Augmentation?
• The Best Way to Find Out Lip Augmentation Cost
• Interested in Lip Augmentation in Encino, CA?

What Are My Lip Augmentation Options?

Lip fillers are the most popular choice for adding volume and definition to the lips. The number of people undergoing lip augmentation has steadily increased over the years. Dr. Michael Persky, an expert facial plastic surgeon, offers some of the most trusted FDA-approved fillers available today. Each product has slightly different benefits and costs, depending on your goals.

Restylane® Kysse

Restylane® Kysse is designed to give your lips a natural look and feel. It’s flexible, soft, and helps enhance both volume and color. This filler also allows for smooth movement when speaking or smiling.

The procedure itself typically takes 15 to 20 minutes. Many patients love Restylane® Kysse because it lasts up to one year and in many cases much longer, sometimes years. There is long-lasting definition with minimal swelling after treatment.

JUVÉDERM® Ultra Plus XC

JUVÉDERM® Ultra Plus XC is a great option if you’re looking for fuller, more dramatic lips. It’s a thicker gel, which makes it perfect for increased volume correction.

Like Restylane, treatment time is usually 15 to 20 minutes, but the results appear immediately. Because of its rich consistency, it may last slightly longer than other options. This filler is a good match for people who want noticeable enhancement in just one session.

JUVÉDERM VOLBELLA® XC

JUVÉDERM VOLBELLA® XC is known for its subtle, natural-looking results. It’s ideal for smoothing vertical lip lines and adding soft volume.

It also takes around 15 to 20 minutes per session, with immediate results and minimal downtime. This filler is especially helpful for first-timers or those wanting slight lip shaping. All of these lip fillers contain the local anesthetic lidocaine for a more comfortable treatment. Dr. Persky offers local anesthesia “dental blocks” for those patients desiring the most comfortable treatment experience.

What Influences the Cost of Lip Augmentation?

The total cost of lip augmentation can vary from person to person. Here are some of the main factors that affect pricing:

• Amount of Correction Needed: If you’re starting with naturally thin lips or uneven shape, you may need more filler than someone looking for a slight enhancement.
• Number of Sessions: While one treatment can provide great results, some patients return for a follow-up session to fine-tune their look.
• Type and Amount of Filler Used: Some fillers are more expensive than others. Longer-lasting fillers may cost more, but they may require fewer touch-ups over time.
• Maintenance Sessions: Most fillers are not permanent. To maintain your results year-round, schedule regular maintenance appointments every 6 to 12 months.

On average, lip augmentation with fillers ranges from $600 to $1000 (or more) per syringe. Some people may need only one syringe, while others may benefit from more. It all depends on your personal goals and facial structure.

The Best Way to Find Out Lip Augmentation Cost

Because lip augmentation is highly personalized, the best way to know your specific cost is by scheduling a consultation. This is best done in person, but Dr. Persky offers virtual FaceTime consults as well.

During your consultation with Dr. Persky, you’ll talk about your aesthetic goals and the look you hope to achieve. He’ll also review your facial features, talk through filler options, and recommend the best treatment plan just for you.

You’ll receive a custom price estimate based on:

• Your treatment plan
• The number of syringes needed
• Whether you’re interested in maintaining results long-term

Dr. Persky has years of experience in facial aesthetics and takes a conservative, natural-looking approach. His goal is always to enhance your beauty without overdoing it. His skill and artistry ensure that every dollar you spend goes toward achieving stunning, natural results you’ll love.

Interested in Lip Augmentation in Encino, CA?

If you’ve been thinking about enhancing your lips, now is the perfect time to explore your options. A consultation with Dr. Persky is the best first step to receiving a customized plan and an accurate price estimate tailored to your unique needs.

Call us today at (818) 501-3223 or contact us online to book your consultation.

The post How Much Is Lip Augmentation? appeared first on Michael A. Persky, M.D., F.A.C.S..

Many people are excited by the skin rejuvenating benefits that Fraxel® laser treatments can create. Before choosing to get this treatment, it is important to understand the factors that influence the total cost so you can financially prepare. This blog discusses what affects the cost, whether the results are worthwhile, and financing options.

Choosing Fraxel® Laser Treatments

Fraxel® laser treatments can provide transformative facial rejuvenation results for patients struggling with aging signs, lines, wrinkles, brown spots, actinic keratosis, pre-cancers, and other skin imperfections. This treatment allows people to restore smooth, youthful-looking skin with a minimally invasive laser procedure. There are a variety of Fraxel® lasers available, each with its own unique benefits to target specific concerns.

When considering Fraxel® laser treatment, many patients may look to cost as a significant deciding factor. It is important to understand what factors go into the total price, financing options, and what results to expect post-treatment.

What Affects Fraxel® Laser Treatment Cost?

On average, the cost of Fraxel® laser treatment ranges from $500 to $6,500. This large range is due to factors like the size of the treatment area, the location of the treatment area, the extent of correction needed, etc. Since each treatment is customized to fit the patient’s unique needs, you can expect prices to fluctuate from person to person. In general, the cost of the Fraxel® re:pair laser is more than the Fraxel® re:store or Dual because Fraxel® re:pair usually requires extensive local anesthesia with or without sedation.

Keep in mind the following factors that impact cost:

• Location of the provider’s office, physicians’ experience, knowledge, skill, training, and artistry
• Number of treatments needed to achieve skin goals
• Skin concerns being addressed (wrinkles, fine lines, age spots, scars, hyperpigmentation, uneven skin tone, acne scars, etc.)
• Type of Fraxel® laser used (Fraxel® re:store, Fraxel® Dual, or Fraxel® re:pair)
• Dr. Persky recommends that patients use ALASTIN Skincare® post-laser kit products to ensure the best results

Are Fraxel® Laser Treatments Worth the Cost?

Many patients want to know if their Fraxel® laser results will be worth the cost of the treatment. Our patient satisfaction rate with Fraxel® laser is very high. Over 95% of our patients love their Fraxel® laser results and would recommend the treatment to a friend. While results will vary, patients can generally expect the following benefits:

• Refreshed, smooth, healthy, and youthful-looking skin
• Reduced aging signs
• A more even skin tone
• Boosted confidence in your appearance

Can I Finance Fraxel® Laser Treatments?

When planning how you’ll pay for your treatments, it’s important to know that financing can be an option. Some patients may choose to take money out of their savings to cover a partial amount or the total cost. However, financing options are often used by many patients so they can choose to get their Fraxel® laser treatments according to a timeline that works for them.

Dr. Michael A. Persky’s office offers financing through CareCredit®, which operates as a credit card for health and wellness purchases. CareCredit® allows patients to pay for the costs of their treatment upfront and provides flexible repayment plans. Depending on the plan you select, you may have zero interest for a certain promotional period. During your consultation, our team will be more than happy to discuss financing options with you further to help you prepare for your procedure.

Schedule Your Fraxel® Laser Treatment Consultation in Encino, CA

Are you ready to say goodbye to wrinkled, sun-damaged, and blemished skin? If so, it may be time to start seriously considering Fraxel® laser treatment. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Persky in Encino, CA, to learn if your skin concerns and goals can be addressed with this treatment. In-person and virtual consultations are available for your convenience.

To learn more about Fraxel® laser treatment and what costs to expect, call Dr. Persky’s office at (818) 501-3223 or complete our online contact form today.

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Are you looking to refresh your appearance or boost your confidence with lip fillers? You’re not alone. Lip augmentation with fillers continues to grow in popularity, and one of the most exciting parts of the treatment is choosing a shape that suits your face and style. Whether you want a subtle enhancement or a bold new look, there’s a perfect lip filler shape for you. Below, we’ll guide you through the most popular lip filler shapes and which products can help achieve them.

Table of Contents

• Which Lip Filler Is Right for Me?
  • Restylane® Kysse
  • JUVÉDERM® Ultra Plus XC
  • JUVÉDERM VOLBELLA® XC
  • RHA® 3 and RHA Redensity®
• Different Popular Lip Shapes
  • Classic Lips
  • Cupid’s Bow
  • Full Pout
  • Pillow Lips
• How to Choose Your Lip Filler Shape
• Interested in Lip Fillers in Encino, CA?

Which Lip Filler Is Right for Me?

The results you get from your lip filler largely depend on who you choose to perform the injections. It is essential to choose your injecting physician most carefully based on their training, board certification, experience, skill, knowledge, and, most importantly, their natural artistic vision. The product used will also determine your result. Different lip fillers have unique textures, densities, and purposes. Let’s explore four of the most popular options. All of the fillers contain the local anesthetic lidocaine for added comfort during your treatment.

Restylane® Kysse

Restylane Kysse is designed specifically for the lips. It provides natural-looking volume, smooths out wrinkles around the mouth, and enhances lip color and texture. It’s perfect for those who want a subtle, kissable look.

Best for:

• First-time lip filler users
• Patients wanting a natural, soft result
• Enhancing lip definition and texture

JUVÉDERM® Ultra Plus XC

This filler is thicker than others, which makes it ideal for creating fuller, more dramatic lips. JUVÉDERM® is “hydrophilic,” which means that once injected, it attracts more water molecules, which gives more of a swelling effect.

Best for:

• Patients looking for a bold transformation
• Adding volume to thin lips
• Long-lasting results

JUVÉDERM VOLBELLA® XC

This filler is smoother and softer, offering subtle enhancement with a silky finish. It’s great for refining shape and contour rather than adding dramatic volume. It feels very soft and natural.

Best for:

• Smoothing fine lines around the lips
• Defining the lip border
• A soft, natural look

RHA® 3 and RHA Redensity®

These Revance Aesthetics products are reliable and combine the traits of a robust filler as well as a corrective, smooth, soft effect, especially good for the fine “smokers” lines around the lips.

Best for:

• Mid to large volume augmentation
• Correction of fine lines

Different Popular Lip Shapes

Lip filler isn’t one-size-fits-all. The shape you choose can bring out your best features and harmonize with your face. Dr. Persky prefers to enhance the naturally endowed lip shape in the majority of his patients. In appropriate patients, here are some popular lip shapes to consider:

Classic Lips

The classic lip shape is all about balance and symmetry. The upper and lower lips are proportionate, with gentle volume and a soft curve. The upper lip should be 70% the size of the lower lip in Caucasian patients. The ratio is 1:1 in patients of color. This shape enhances your lips in a natural way without appearing overdone.

Great for:

• Everyday wear
• A timeless, effortless appearance
• Natural-looking results

Cupid’s Bow

This shape emphasizes the natural “V” at the center of the upper lip. It’s a romantic, defined look that draws attention to the middle of the mouth. Adding a little fullness in the upper lip just below the Cupid’s Bow is youthful and a sign of fertility.

Ideal for:

• Accentuating facial symmetry
• Adding youthful structure and attractiveness

Full Pout

Full pout lips are all about maximum volume. The upper and lower lips are plumped evenly, giving a bold, noticeable look.

Perfect for:

• Glamorous styles
• Those who love a statement lip
• Those who wish to draw attention to themselves by having their lips enter the room before the rest of their body
• Adult video performers

Pillow Lips

This shape creates a plush, soft effect with rounded edges and more volume toward the center of the lips. Think of this look as dreamy and luxurious.

Best for:

• A sultry, high-fashion appearance
• People who want plump but not sharp edges

How to Choose Your Lip Filler Shape

Not sure which shape is right for you? Don’t worry—Dr. Michael Persky will help guide you. Here are a few tips to help you start thinking about it:

• Consider your face shape: Some lip shapes complement certain face types better.
• Think about your goals: Are you going for a subtle boost or a dramatic transformation?
• Review your natural lips: Enhancing your natural shape usually gives the best results.
• Look at photos: Bring inspiration photos to your appointment for reference.

Working with a skilled provider is key. Dr. Persky is a top facial plastic surgeon, highly experienced with surgical and non-surgical rejuvenation treatments. During a consultation, Dr. Persky will assess your features and help you choose a filler and shape that complements your natural beauty.

Interested in Lip Fillers in Encino, CA?

If you’re thinking about enhancing your smile with lip fillers, you’re in great hands with Dr. Persky. With years of experience and an eye for aesthetic balance, he’ll help you choose the best filler and shape for your lips.

Call us today at (818) 501-3223 or write to us through our online contact form to schedule your consultation.

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Blepharoplasty is one of the best “bang for the buck” facial rejuvenation surgeries turning back the hands of time.

Current trends in blepharoplasty revolve around skin removal, preservation and repositioning of fat, and creating rejuvenation at the cellular level with bioregenerative stimulation. Today’s blepharoplasty patient deserves a natural result. My personal aesthetic philosophy is “less is more”, and four words, “no one should know.”

Whereas lower blepharoplasty in the past involved removal of lower eyelid fat “bags”, today’s most refined lower eyelid blepharoplasty surgeons reposition lower eyelid fat from the eyelid bulge to fill the hollow circle below it , restoring a smooth transition between the lower eyelid and the cheek. Lower eyelid fat transposition blepharoplasty is approached through a small incision through the inside of the lower eyelid.

In the past, upper eyelid blepharoplasty involved removal of fat pads, muscle, and skin. This often resulted in a hollow sunken upper eyelid. Similar to lower blepharoplasty, fat is preserved and can be translocated if need be. Minimal or no muscle is removed, and an appropriate strip of upper eyelid skin is removed to ensure closure of the eyelids without excessive “hooding” skin. Many patients only need skin removal without fat removal, in these cases the septum which supports the fat compartment is tighted by heating it causing contraction of any minimal bulging.

Lower eyelid skin may be removed using a “skin pinch” technique. Both upper and lower eyelid skin may be tightened with ablative fractional CO2 laser.

Bioregenerative rejuvenation at the cellular level with platelet rich plasma or fibrin (prp,prf). Topical exosomes, and/or salmon sperm (pdrn) may also be used. EZ-Gel (prf) may be used in appropriately selected patients to fill lower eye hollows in patient who do not want surgery, and who wish to have a 100% natural injectable gel from their own blood.

Most patients are motivated to have blepharoplasty by their “tired” appearance, while some seek functional improvement of their visual fields. A 75 year old pilot with excessive skin hanging from his upper eyelids told me that he was tired of flying his plane with one hand on the controls, and the other holding up his eyelids so that he could avoid other planes. Patients share that before their blepharoplasty they could sleep for twelve hours and still look tired in the morning, and that after the surgery they could stay up all night and still look rested the next day.

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