Posted on

Stockton residents benefit from safe, effective types of dermal fillers to restore youthful volume

Dr Gerald N. Bock, MD California Skin & Laser Center Partition of a Woman's Face

A major use for dermal fillers is to replace volume lost as we age. Intrinsic or “natural” aging usually begins in our mid-20s. This process is exacerbated by extrinsic factors, such as unprotected exposure to the sun’s rays. These external exposures contribute to premature aging. In the succeeding decades the loss of underlying fat makes our cheeks and eye sockets look hollow. Face shape changes.

There are many types of fillers or materials that may be injected into the face to restore a youthful shape. These injectables are versatile and may fill in sunken cheeks, chin, forehead, temples and other areas.

The fillers administered by Dr. Gerald Bock are effective and FDA approved. Since these fillers are either made up of naturally occurring substances or have been used in the body safely for decades, adverse reactions are minimized. These solutions are biocompatible. When injected they aren’t toxic or damaging to living tissues.

Additionally, Dr. Bock injects these solutions in a comfortable and safe manner with flexible cannulas. While these bendable tubes are as effective as needles, they are associated with less pain, and less risk of either bruising or necrosis when skin cells are irreversibly damaged. Generally, these tubes have a better safety profile than their more “traditional” counterparts.

You can assure whatever type of the many fillers with different characteristics available to address different goals is administered safely, with minimal side effects and minimal likelihood of experiencing unwanted effects.

Hyaluronic acid fillers are among the most common. If you’ve heard of Restylane or Perlane then you know this type of filler. HA is natural lubricant found in high concentrations in our joints and eyes. This gel-like substance may be injected to add volume to the cheeks and lips. It may also be used to correct signs of aging around the nose and mouth.

More recently the Juvederm family of HA-based dermal fillers released the FDA-approved Juvederm Voluma XC. It temporarily restores fullness to the mid-face, including the cheeks. The majority of those studied, in a clinical report submitted by Allergan to the FDA, saw improved cheek fullness that lasted for up to two years.

Poly-L-lactic acid fillers are increasingly popular. The California Skin & Laser Center uses Sculptra. You may know PLLA and not realize it. The material has been used for years in dissolvable stitches. Unlike permanent fillers, the body absorbs Sculptra. While absorbable, it is a long-lasting injectable. Sculptra Aesthetic reports, on average, three injection sessions over a period of a few months result in sculpting effects that last for more than two years. It replaces lost collagen in the mid- to lower-face and chin, adding volume to deep folds between and around the mouth and nose, and in the chin. Results are gradual and Dr. Bock has seen another benefit in addition to plumping up shallow areas: Sculptra improves the appearance of the skin’s surface, too.

There are many different types of dermal fillers for Stockton area residents. As new solutions are approved and become available on the market, experienced and knowledgeable specialists are nearby to select a safe and effective treatment plan built around you. Call Dr. Bock and his team at the California Skin & Laser Center on 209-751-4292 to schedule a consultation.

 

[back-to-link link=”types-of-dermal-fillers” text=”Types of Dermal Fillers”]

Posted on

Discover wrinkle-smoothing benefits of Dysport injection in Stockton

Dr Gerald N. Bock, MD California Skin & Laser Center Side Look Of her Woman's Face

The American Society of Plastic Surgeons reports botulinum toxin type A injections were the most sought-after minimally-invasive cosmetic procedure in the country in 2013. At 6.3 million injections, other top procedures such as soft tissue fillers, chemical peels and laser hair removal didn’t come close at 2.2 million, 1.2 million and 1.1 million procedures respectively in 2013.

You may know botulinum toxin by the trade name Botox. This solution to smooth wrinkles is, however, just one of a group of medications that use the same active ingredient to affect muscle activity. Other brands of this drug include Myobloc, Xeomin, and Dysport.

While all of these products use botulinum toxin type A, each one is different particularly as it relates to dosing. That’s why you can’t use these solutions in conjunction with each other.

Dysport has been used in the United Kingdom since 1991. It was initially developed and approved as a treatment for involuntary blinking and various forms of muscle spasms, including hemifacial spasm and post-stroke arm spasticity.

In 2009 the Food and Drug Administration approved Dysport for the treatment of cervical dystonia, a chronic condition characterized by involuntary contractions of the neck muscles. Dysport was also approved to temporarily reduce the appearance of moderate to severe glabellar lines. The glabella is the skin between the eyebrows and above the nose. Each time you make a facial expression you are working a facial muscle. When you frown, smile or squint a groove forms beneath the skin’s surface. Aging skin loses its flexibility and the lines that normally only appeared when an expression was made are now permanent features of your face. This explains why glabellar lines are better known as “frown lines.”

According to the company’s USA site, Dysport goes to work on the muscles that repeatedly contract, tighten and cause wrinkles with one injection into each of five points above and between the brows. When Dr. Bock administers this solution, it blocks the signal sent by the nerve to the muscles that normally cause the activity responsible for lines. Since the signal needed to produce the contraction is blocked, the muscles can’t cause lines when we frown or make other expressions.

While this treated area will look smooth and youthful again, you don’t have to worry about areas of your face appearing unnatural and frozen. Dysport only works at the site of the injection. Your face will still be able to express how you feel, and the professionals at California Skin & Laser Center certainly hope you feel better about how you look with this treatment.

We’ll want to discuss if you have had any allergic reactions to botulinum toxin products, such as Botox, and any medical conditions that affect the muscles and nerves. Call 209-751-4292 so we can walk through these and other considerations associated with getting a Dysport injection in Stockton.

 

[back-to-link link=”types-of-dermal-fillers” text=”Types of Dermal Fillers”]

Posted on

Dermatologist near Stockton provides facelift solutions with Sculptra

Dr Gerald N. Bock, MD California Skin & Laser Center Woman Touching Her Ears

Dr. Gerald Bock of the California Skin and Laser Center is a dermatologist near the Stockton area who believes in offering his patients a wide selection of cosmetic services to help them improve their appearance. From laser hair removal to injectables, his practice is well-suited for both men and women who want to address specific concerns with their skin and body. While offering a wide selection of injectables for patients, he believes that one of the best and most cost effective methods of treating widespread loss of facial volume is through the use of Sculptra.

Sculptra is a poly-l-lactic acid injectable which stimulates the production collagen within the skin. Collagen is what gives the skin a plump, youthful appearance, and after the age of 25, patients begin to naturally lose collagen. This results in hollowness and skin laxity which encourages the formation of fine lines, folds and wrinkles in the skin. The signs of aging are often unwanted and many patients want to consider methods of turning back the hands of time in a non-invasive way. This is where Sculptra comes into play.

Sculptra works differently than injectable counterparts such as dermal fillers made of hyaluronic acid and neuromodulators such as Botox and Dysport. Sculptra does not provide immediately results, but rather offers patients a way of gradually improving the appearance of their skin over time. Collagen takes time to regenerate, though patients can use Sculptra in conjunction with neuromodulators and dermal fillers for an overall face lift without the need for plastic surgery.

Sculptra does require several injections for optimum results, but these results can withstand the test of time and many patients continue to see improvements over several years. Many patients can rest easy knowing that they are receiving the best in care at the California Skin and Laser Center because Dr. Gerald Bock is a very experienced and skilled dermatologist ready to help new and existing patients.

If you’re ready to educate yourself on Sculptra or any combination of injectables used to achieve a “liquid facelift,” now is the time to contact Dr. Gerald Bock at his cutting-edge practice to find out if they are appropriate for your specific needs and desires.

 

[back-to-link link=”types-of-dermal-fillers” text=”Types of Dermal Fillers”]

Posted on

A better understanding of cosmetic fillers for patients in Stockton CA

Dr Gerald N. Bock, MD California Skin & Laser Center Woman putting her hand on her face

Soft tissue fillers have become an extremely popular procedure in this country, and for good reason. In the hands of a trained and experienced Board Certified dermatologist, fillers restore youthful volume, soft contours, and lip definition to the face (and in some cases, other areas of the body). Dr. Gerald Bock helps California Skin & Laser Center patients throughout CA turn back the years through the skillful use of dermal fillers for facial sculpting.

Cosmetic fillers 101

Today’s dermatology patient is lucky to have a range of filler options available. Basically, they fall into these categories:

  • Hyaluronic acid (HA) based. HA is a compound of complex sugars that occurs naturally in the body. It has the unique capacity to attract and retain many times its own weight in water to plump skin from the inside out. Some familiar names in HA fillers are Juvéderm, Perlane, and Restylane. HA fillers work well to smooth laugh lines and to augment lips. Each patient and treatment area is different, but results typically last about six months. Voluma is a new HA filler in the Juvéderm family, specifically designed to add volume to the cheek area.
  • Poly-L-Lactic acid based. This amazing formulation is found naturally in eyes and joints, and used in dissolving sutures. You know it as the cosmetic filler called Sculptra. With a series of treatments, Sculptra gradually rebuilds collagen to smooth deep folds around the mouth. Results last up to two years.
  • Calcium microspheres. Radiesse contains calcium hydroxylapatite. These tiny beads of calcium are suspended in a smooth clear gel. It is injected around the mouth and chin to add immediate volume, and to stimulate the body’s natural production of collagen. Results usually last a year or more.

When cosmetic fillers are a good choice

Fillers are a great option for the male or female patient whose skin needs more rejuvenation than a topical treatment can deliver, but who is not ready for the risks and recovery time of cosmetic surgery. Cosmetic fillers are very safe, minimally invasive, and require little or no downtime. Facial sculpting with dermal fillers is also discreet – co-workers, friends, and family members won’t ask if you’ve had work done. They’ll just know you look terrific!

Call California Skin & Laser Center today at 209-751-4292 for more information on cosmetic fillers.

 

[back-to-link link=”types-of-dermal-fillers” text=”Types of Dermal Fillers”]

Posted on

Finding the most effective Restylane treatment in Stockton

Dr Gerald N. Bock, MD California Skin & Laser Center Woman wears Ice cap

Collagen is protein that supports soft tissues, one of the components that keep your skin firm and smooth, and your lips pleasingly plump. Over time, though, your body begins to produce less collagen. Skin becomes thinner and drier, contributing to wrinkles, and lips lose definition. For most people, that adds up to looking older and sterner than they feel. A dermal filler called Restylane can resolve those signs of aging. The following information will help residents in the Stockton area locate the most effective Restylane treatment.

Understanding Restylane

Your body naturally produces hyaluronic acid. It is found in skin and other tissues, where it draws and holds moisture. Restylane is a dermal filler approved by the FDA that contains hyaluronic acid. It is injected into nasolabial folds (lines from the nose to corners of the mouth), forehead wrinkles, and crow’s feet to restore lost volume, softening those areas into more youthful facial contours. The smooth gel formulation is also ideal for augmenting and defining lips. In addition, Restylane revitalizes skin by stimulating natural collagen production.

Choosing a doctor for treatment

While the results of Restylane are temporary, typically lasting 6 to 12 months, injectable treatment is a big decision. It is important to trust your appearance, your skin, and your health to a qualified clinician.

Dr. Gerald Bock has earned certification by the American Board of Dermatology and fellowship in the American Academy of Dermatology. Those distinctions are your assurance of commitment and education that extends well beyond a medical degree. At the California Skin & Laser Center facility, Dr. Bock maintains the highest safety standards combined with discreet, compassionate care.

What else matters in your choice of a doctor for Restylane treatment? Artistry and experience are vitally important for youthful, natural outcomes, but an eye for organic symmetry and design cannot be taught. Dr. Bock understands the nuances of male and female features, and knows how they may be enhanced with cosmetic treatment. He designs customized protocols combining Restylane with other dermal fillers, neuromodulators like Botox and Dysport, and skin resurfacing techniques to accomplish each patient’s skin rejuvenation goals.

At California Skin & Laser Center, you don’t get a brief consultation with the Doctor and injectable treatment from an aesthetician. Dr. Bock administers all injectables personally.

Call 209-751-4292 to schedule a consultation with the dermatologist patients in the Stockton area trust for effective Restylane treatment – Dr. Gerald Bock.

 

[back-to-link link=”california-restylane-perlane-and-juvederm” text=”California Restylane, Perlane, and Juvéderm”]

Posted on

Voluma specialist in Stockton describes facial sculpting with dermal fillers

Dr Gerald N. Bock, MD California Skin & Laser Center Half Face of a Woman

It has been believed that the primary sign of aging is the formation of fine lines and wrinkles on the face due to skin laxity. However, this is not the only effect that may occur and make patients look and feel old. Dr. Gerald Bock of California Skin & Laser Center in the Stockton area may suggest patients consider the loss of volume which may also occur due to the loss of collagen. After patients turn 30, they begin to lose a small amount of collagen naturally every year. This reduces the volume of the skin especially in areas of the cheeks where definition is extremely important to maintain a youthful look.

The FDA approved a treatment called Voluma in 2013. Juvederm Voluma is a dermal filler made of hyaluronic acid and the Vycross™ system that ensure instant filling and lifting of the cheeks. Patients who are struggling with the appearance of sunken cheeks may find this particular treatment to be extremely desirable when seeking anti-aging solutions. Juvederm Voluma is performed by a specialist such as Dr. Gerald Bock to reverse the signs of aging due to volume loss. Many patients find that it can improve a tired, gaunt look that often plagues those who are dealing with volume loss in the cheeks. All this is done with a specialized injection that is inserted precisely into the face for an improved appearance and enhancement of the natural definition.

While there are many hyaluronic acid fillers on the market, none other can compare to the effectiveness of Juvederm Voluma when it comes to replacing the lost collagen in the face. Lifting and contouring of the cheeks and cheekbones is done with the assistance of a Voluma specialist who is well aware of the ways in which this treatment can enhance one’s appearance. Patients in their 30’s and older are great candidates for Juvederm Voluma injections and are encouraged to contact our team to learn more. At California Skin & Laser Center, we believe everyone is eligible for a treatment for their aging skin. Contact Dr. Gerald Bock today to schedule an evaluation.

 

[back-to-link link=”voluma” text=”Voluma”]

Posted on

Get rid of the signs of aging using dermal fillers in the Stockton community

Dr Gerald N. Bock, MD California Skin & Laser Center Treatment For Dermal Fillers

Doctor in the Stockton area is proud to offer his patients solutions when it comes to getting rid of the signs of aging using dermal fillers for facial sculpting

Dr. Gerald Bock and the team at the California Skin and Laser Center work closely with Stockton area residents to help them maintain a youthful appearance with non-invasive options. Men and women who want to get rid of the signs of aging are encouraged to book an appointment at his practice and educate themselves further on the advantages of fast, effective dermal fillers.

Dermal fillers continue to become more popular as patients realize how much they can turn back the hands of time with simple aesthetic injections. Dr. Gerald Bock administers all injections himself instead of having staff complete the treatment like many other dermatological practices in the area. He has a wide range of dermal fillers that can restore volume including:

  • Juvéderm
  • Restylane
  • Voluma
  • Radiesse
  • Sculptra

Many of these injectable solutions are used for enhancing the lips, lifting the brows, adding volume to the cheek and upper face, and providing lower face restoration. Several types of injections may be combined, even with neuromodulators such as Botox® and Dysport™, to provide the ultimate facelift results. In many cases, the injections can last from nine months to two years before reinjection is required to maintain the new look and slow the signs of aging.

Injections are done quickly and easily in our dermatological practice within minutes. Patients can book a consultation appointment before they decide if dermal fillers are right for them. We may make suggestions regarding other treatment options based on the needs of our patients. We can also discuss the results and explain how long they will last before further injections are necessary. Many patients are able to slow the signs of aging with periodic injections.

If you reside in or around the community of Stockton and are ready to speak with a dermatological professional about the advantages of cosmetic injections for getting rid of the signs of aging, contact Dr. Gerald Bock of the California Skin and Laser Center today. We can make recommendations regarding the best possible way of achieving a youthful look without using traditional plastic surgery.

 

[back-to-link link=”facial-sculpting-with-dermal-fillers” text=”Facial Sculpting with Dermal Fillers”]

Posted on

Expert in Stockton provides facial sculpting results with dermal fillers

Dr Gerald N. Bock, MD California Skin & Laser Center Injections

Dermal fillers are a great way for patients in the Stockton area to achieve a more youthful look without the need for extensive plastic surgery procedures.

Facial sculpting has become a highly requested treatment at the California Skin and Laser Center. Dr. Gerald Bock and his professional team work closely with men and women to help them find solutions suitable for their specific desires. As an expert in the Stockton area, Dr. Gerald Bock encourages patients to take the time to learn about dermal fillers as an alternative to plastic surgery.

Dermal fillers are a great way to add volume almost anywhere on the face. They are often used to provide a non-surgical facelift, reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and erase folds and reduce acne scars from the surface of the skin. Below is a small sampling of the brands of dermal fillers available through our facility:

  • Juvéderm
  • Restylane
  • Voluma
  • Radiesse
  • Sculptra

All of these dermal fillers available in our practice are tested and approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for aesthetic purposes. Each one has its own advantages and disadvantages, and there may be times in which Dr. Gerald Bock may combine several of them for the ultimate liquid facelift. Dermal fillers may be paired with neuromodulators including Botox® and Dysport™ for optimum results.

A consultation appointment is the best way to find out if dermal fillers are right for you. Dr. Gerald Bock performs all injections in his practice instead of having his trained staff perform them. This ensures safety and precision results. Dr. Gerald Bock can determine which particular brands are best, based on the needs of his patients.

Dr. Gerald Bock and the team of the California Skin and Laser Center want patients to know that they have the solutions available to provide non-invasive facial sculpting using dermal fillers. Book an appointment today and consult with our team to learn about the advantages of quality dermatological services for men and women of the Stockton community. We welcome new patients who are ready to take charge of their youthfulness once again!

 

[back-to-link link=”facial-sculpting-with-dermal-fillers” text=”Facial Sculpting with Dermal Fillers”]

Posted on

Stockton dermatology practice offers dermal fillers for anti-aging benefits

Dr Gerald N. Bock, MD California Skin & Laser Center Woman's Hands On Her Head

Men and women who visit their Stockton area dermatology practice are often interested in learning about ways to turn back the hands of time without invasive surgery. Facelifts are one way of reducing skin laxity and improving some fine lines and wrinkles caused from the volume loss of aging, they do not deal with the underlying volume loss. Frequently facelift patients also need filler placement to look their best. However, facelifts can be the treatment of choice when there is such large volume loss that the use of fillers becomes uneconomical.

For many patients, dermal fillers are safe, effective, and affordable alternatives to plastic surgery. They can help patients enhance their appearance in a way that turns back the hands of time and provides beautiful anti-aging benefits for months or years. Dermal fillers are different from Botox® and Dysport™, which are medications that inhibit muscle contractions. Many dermal fillers are formulated from hyaluronic acid and are used to provide volume in specific areas, with immediate results.

There are several types of dermal fillers available. The most common are the hyaluronic acid fillers including Juvéderm, Voluma, Restylane, and Restylane Lift. These products can help with replace missing volume and give the face a youthful contour. Doctor Bock at California Skin and Laser Center can help determine the best injectable based on your needs and desires.

Some patients may be better suited for Sculptra™, which restores youthfulness by helping the skin produce more collagen over time. It is best for larger areas of lost volume such as the cheeks, temples and chin and can provide results for many years when injected regularly. Another option is Radiesse, made from calcium hydroxylapatite microspheres, which not only adds volume like hyaluronic acid, but stimulates collagen production at the same time.

The team at California Skin and Laser Center believes that patients should have access to anti-aging solutions through a dermatologist they know and trust. Dr. Gerald Bock administers injections such as these himself, allowing patients to be at ease about a professional providing services. If you want to seek treatment from dedicated dermatologist, Dr. Gerald Bock, contact the team at California Skin and Laser Center to learn more about dermal fillers and other injectable services available for restoring youth.

 

[back-to-link link=”facial-sculpting-with-dermal-fillers” text=”Facial Sculpting with Dermal Fillers”]

Posted on

Dermatologic team in Stockton, CA explains how the chemical peel can be the best solution for various skin concerns

Dr Gerald N. Bock, MD California Skin & Laser Center Woman's Hands On Her Eyes

Excessive sun exposure, tanning beds, smoking, and the natural process of aging can lead to damaged skin, wrinkles and lines, and a variety of other complexion concerns. Many men and women in Stockton, CA and beyond seek treatments to restore a youthful appearance. A chemical peel may be the best solution to rejuvenate the skin and renew the confidence. The team at California Skin & Laser Center provides chemical peel treatments to meet the individual needs of patients. We offer chemical peels and a broad range of other services at our offices in Stockton and Lodi.

Our highly respected Board-certified dermatologist, Dr. Gerald Bock, determines which chemical treatment is best-suited to a patient’s skin type. He carefully examines the patient’s skin and reviews his or her medical history to establish the right type and strength of peel.

One of the chemical peels we offer is the Vitalize Peel, a mild or superficial treatment used for improving the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, as well as skin tone and texture. The Vitalize Peel is suitable for patients of all skin types. Chemical peel treatment can be completed during a lunch break. There is no downtime afterward, allowing patients to immediately return to work or resume other normal activities.

In addition to chemical peels, we offer a skin resurfacing treatment called the Arctic Peel. We use a cooling device, known as the Zimmer Cooler, to ensure patient comfort. A laser is utilized to effectively remove superficial layers of skin. The result is a smoother and softer complexion. Again, there is no downtime required after treatment.

The Obagi Nu-Derm System is another effective anti-aging option. This system works below the skin’s surface to correct damage within deeper skin layers. The result can be more youthful looking skin.

We utilize MicroLaserPeel to remove a thin layer of damaged surface skin, to improve texture. It can be ideal for treating wrinkles, sun-damaged skin, scars, and skin pigmentation concerns. There is minimal downtime and treatment typically results in a healthier-looking complexion.

To explore any of our skin rejuvenation treatments, we recommend scheduling a consultation with Dr. Bock by calling 209-751-4292. Dr. Bock and the California Skin & Laser Center team love to help patients achieve their goals for a more refreshed and youthful appearance.

 

[back-to-link link=”chemical-peels” text=”Chemical Peels”]