At Carmel Valley Facial Plastic Surgery, every patient has a unique story. Today, we’re sharing the inspiring journey of Dawn, a cherished patient who has been part of my practice for nearly 15 years. As a double-board-certified facial plastic surgeon, my passion lies in helping individuals look as youthful and vibrant as they feel inside. Dawn’s journey is a testament to the transformative power of personalized facial rejuvenation in looking as young as you feel.
The Beginning: Fat Transfer and Lower Eyelid Rejuvenation.
Dawn first came to me in her mid-40s, seeking solutions for hollowing around her eyes and midface. During our consultation, we identified two key areas: volume loss and eyelid transitions.
To achieve natural, refreshed results, we performed the following:
- Fat Transfer: This restored youthful volume to her under-eyes, temples, and midface, creating a softer, more rejuvenated appearance.
- Lower Eyelid Skin Pinch: This minor procedure improved the contour between her lower eyelids and cheeks, providing a seamless transition.
For the next decade, Dawn enjoyed the lasting benefits of these procedures. The fat transfer also slowed the visible aging process—a common outcome I’ve observed in patients who undergo this procedure early.
A Decade Later: Vertical Restore® and Lip Lift.
By her mid-50s, Dawn began noticing subtle but significant changes: laxity in her lower face, an elongated upper lip, and mild sagging in her cheeks. Together, we developed a treatment plan to address these concerns while preserving her natural beauty.
This included the following:
- Vertical Restore®: My proprietary approach to facial rejuvenation, Vertical Restore, addresses laxity in the face, jawline, and neck by repositioning tissues to their youthful position. This technique ensures a refreshed, natural look without a “worked-on” appearance.
- Lip Lift: Aging often elongates the upper lip, concealing the upper teeth and diminishing the smile. Shortening the philtrum and enhancing the red lip added balance and vibrancy to Dawn’s facial features.
Dawn’s Recovery Process
Recovery is highly personal, and Dawn was kind enough to document her experience. Here are some highlights:
Week 1
Initial swelling and bruising are expected, but by Day 5, Dawn’s healing process was already underway. With the help of cold compresses and proper care, she managed discomfort effectively.
Week 2
Bruising and tightness continued to subside. By Day 12, Dawn noticed significant improvements and began seeing glimpses of her results.
1.5 Months Post-Op
Dawn’s swelling had nearly resolved, and the refined contours of her face and enhanced lip shape were clearly visible. Her scars, meticulously placed, were barely noticeable.
Two Years Later
Dawn remains thrilled with her results. Her scars are virtually invisible, and her face exudes a timeless, natural beauty. She describes the transformation as life-changing, often reflecting on how much younger and more confident she feels.
The Key to Lasting Results
Dawn’s success speaks to the importance of a holistic approach to aging gracefully. Beyond surgery, here are some methods for maintaining a youthful glow:
- The KaramMD Trifecta™ System: This simplified skincare regimen combines anti-aging essentials for radiant, healthy skin.
- Sun Protection: A daily commitment to sunscreen helps preserve surgical results.
- In-Office Treatments: Occasional non-surgical treatments keep the skin refreshed and vibrant.
Ready to Begin Your Own Journey?
Dawn’s story showcases the power of proactive, personalized care. By addressing signs of aging as they arise and committing to long-term maintenance, she has achieved a naturally youthful appearance that matches how she feels inside.
If you’re considering facial rejuvenation, my team and I are here to guide you every step of the way. Schedule a consultation today and take the first step toward your transformative journey.
