Dr. Anthony Youn Answers Your Questions: Skincare, Plastic Surgery, and More

Addressing Smile Lines and Skincare

• 💡 For deep smile lines (nasolabial folds) at age 19, it's advised not to worry, as they are normal and can be a sign of being alive, not necessarily aging.
• 💉 The primary treatment for smile lines is injectable filler, though conservative use is recommended to avoid an unnatural, stiff appearance.
• 💰 When seeking affordable skincare, consider brands like Aurelia, Murad, and La Roche-Posay, or budget-friendly options like The Ordinary.
• ✨ Look for products without strong fragrances and from smaller, eco-conscious brands for better formulations.

Cosmetic Procedures and Treatments

• ⚠️ Rippling in breast implants after 12 years is often normal, usually due to changes in breast tissue from aging, breastfeeding, or weight loss, rather than implant issues.
• ✈️ Patients can travel for surgery, but typically need to stay in the area for 7-10 days post-operation to monitor healing and manage potential complications like bleeding.
• 🚫 Non-invasive options are generally ineffective for C-section scar overhangs; a mini tummy tuck is the least invasive surgical solution.
• 📉 For mild facial laxity, RF microneedling (Morpheus 8) is recommended for lighter skin tones, while ultrasound-based treatments (Sofwave, Ultherapy) are better for darker skin tones.

Skin Health and Aging

• ☀️ Brown spots (hyperpigmentation) are caused by UV radiation and require active treatment, such as brightening creams with ingredients like niacinamide or licorice root extract, or IPL treatments.
• 🚫 Tretinoin should not be applied directly under the eyes due to the delicate skin; opt for a specialized retinol eye cream instead.
• 🩺 A surgeon's true skill is tested by their ability to handle surgical complications, highlighting the importance of extensive training and board certification.
• 👁️ For loose skin under the eyes without bags, a lower blepharoplasty might involve a skin pinch rather than fat removal, leading to quicker recovery.

Body Contouring and Aging Concerns

• 🎯 Double chins (submental fullness) can be treated non-invasively with CoolSculpting or Kybella injections, or surgically with liposuction, which is considered the gold standard.
• ⚖️ Gastric bypass surgery is for severe obesity leading to health issues, while liposuction is for stubborn fat pockets in individuals at a healthy weight, not for general weight loss.
• 🍎 Maintaining good skin on a budget involves a healthy, anti-inflammatory diet and a basic skincare routine focusing on active ingredients like retinol and sun protection.
• 💡 Red light therapy masks can be a cost-effective intervention for promoting skin health at home.
• ⏳ Temple hollowing can be addressed with fillers like Sculptra or hyaluronic acid fillers, with Sculptra offering longer-lasting, gradual results.
• 🌸 Post-menopausal skin changes, including collagen loss, can be managed through skincare, supplements, diet, and potentially hormone replacement therapy, with a dedicated podcast episode available for more detail.
• ✨ Cellulite on the buttocks can be temporarily improved with deep heating and massage treatments, but minimally invasive procedures like Aveli show promise for more permanent results by cutting fibrous bands.