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Top Reasons to Consider Mole Removal

Common skin growths that can form anywhere include moles or nevi. While the majority of moles are benign, some could raise questions because of their location, look, or chance of turning into skin cancer.

Mole removal is a relatively simple procedure that addresses these concerns and offers several benefits. Here are the top reasons to consider mole removal:

Cosmetic Concerns

For many individuals, the primary reason for mole removal is cosmetic. Moles can be unsightly, especially when large, raised, or located in visible areas such as the face, neck, or arms. Removal can improve appearance and boost self-confidence.

Potential for Malignancy

While most moles are benign, some can develop into melanoma, a severe form of skin cancer. Moles with irregular borders, varying colors, or changes in size, shape, or texture may be indicators of malignancy. Removing suspicious moles can help prevent the potential spread of cancerous cells and aid in early detection, which is crucial for successful treatment.

Risk Factors and Prevention

Certain risk factors, such as a family history of melanoma, multiple atypical moles, or excessive sun exposure, can increase the likelihood of moles becoming cancerous. Mole removal can be a proactive measure for individuals with these risk factors, reducing the chance of future complications and providing peace of mind.

Discomfort or Interference

Moles can sometimes cause discomfort or interfere with daily activities, mainly if they are located in areas that experience frequent friction or pressure. For example, moles on the soles of the feet or in areas prone to chafing from clothing may become irritated or bleed. Removing these troublesome moles can alleviate discomfort and prevent further complications.

Enhance Your Skin’s Health and Beauty in Westlake, OH

At The Laser & Skin Surgery Center, Dr Renuka Diwan, MD, FAAD, specializes in addressing your skin concerns, including mole removal. Whether you’re looking to improve your appearance or take preventative measures against skin cancer, we’re here to help.

Contact us today at 440-871-9832 or visit our website to schedule a consultation. We look forward to helping you achieve healthier, more beautiful skin.

Repair Options for Stretched or Gauged Earlobes

If you’ve been dealing with stretched earlobes, you’re not alone. Many people find themselves in a situation where heavy earrings or gauging practices have torn or lengthened their earlobes making it dificult to have a symmetrical appearance of earrings or wear an earring at all, and have a normal looking earlobe.

Fortunately, there are effective surgical repair options for torn, stretched or gauged earlobes to restore the natural appearance of your earlobes.

Surgical Repair

One of the most common and effective methods for repairing stretched or gauged earlobes is surgical repair. This procedure involves removing the stretched excess tissue and reshaping the earlobe to its natural form with different surgical techniques.

Here’s what you can expect from surgical repair:

The earlobe is anesthetized with local anesthesia to ensure you experience no discomfort during the procedure.
Dr Diwan carefully trims the stretched tissue, sculpting the earlobe to the desired shape.
She will then use fine sutures to close the incisions, promoting proper healing.
Sutures are removed in one week, and you can expect to see noticeable earlobe repair results soon after the procedure. The earlobe is repierced, if desired, 6 weeks later.

Non-surgical treatment

A mild to moderately stretched earlobe piercing hole can be minimized by injection of a hyaluronic acid filer, such as Juvederm, into the earlobe around the piercing. A gauged earlobe is best repaired surgically.

Consultation for Customized Treatment Plans

The first step is to book a consultation with Dr Diwan, an experienced dermatologic surgeon. Dr Diwan will evaluate your particular concerns, understand your goals, and suggest the best treatment plan tailored to your needs.

Schedule a Gauged or Torn Earlobe Consultation in Westlake, OH

Ready to restore the natural appearance of your earlobes? Schedule a consultation at Laser and Skin Surgery Center in Westlake, Ohio. Dr Renuka Diwan MD and her team dedicate themselves to assisting you in safely and effectively achieving your aesthetic earlobe goals.

Mini Facelifts Provide an Alternative to Significant Plastic Surgery

A mini facelift is similar to a traditional facelift in that it addresses sagging skin on the lower face and upper neck. However, unlike a full facelift procedure, the mini facelift is a more limited surgical procedure that is best suited for those with less advanced sagging of the lower third of the face, to tighten and remove sagging skin (jowls). It’s a corrective procedure with smaller adjustments at the hairline to restore a youthful and natural appearance to the face.

If you’re interested in less aggressive cosmetic surgery to enhance your jawline, keep reading to learn more about mini facelifts.

Targeting Concerns on the Lower Face

The results of a mini facelift are noticed mostly at the jaw and upper neck. Ideal patients for this procedure are those looking to correct early to moderate skin sagging at the jawline and upper neck.

The procedure utilizes a shorter incision and far less surgery. However, it is still a surgical procedure with the related post-surgical recovery and follow-up to ensure everything heals properly.

As with other types of surgery, there can be side effects. Dr Diwan and her skilled team at the Laser and Skin Surgery Center are aware of the risks associated with this procedure and take the proper precautions for the safety of our patients.

Credentials Matter and Influence Results

The expertise of the surgeon makes a big difference in the results. Generally, mini facelifts are performed by a dermatological surgeon. Dr Diwan is board certified and she is a fellowship trained dermatolgic surgeon. She has the requisite training and years of experience to perform the procedure skillfully and deliver great results. The procedure is performed in the office with local anesthesia. Patients typically need a week of downtime away from work and daily routines but improvement continues, usually, for a few weeks.

Schedule a Mini Facelift Consultation in Westlake, OH

If you’re considering a mini facelift, our Laser and Skin Surgery Center team can help. We can answer all your questions and explain the full process of a mini facelift – what’s involved for a patient, and what to expect. Call us today at 440-871-9832 or connect with our office online at our website.

Explore the Benefits of Upper Eyelid Blepharoplasty

Due to the skin around the eyes being thinner than other areas of the face, it can display signs of aging sooner than other regions. Some concerns may include sagging, crow’s feet, and “bags” forming around the eyes. An upper eyelid blepharoplasty can lift the skin above the eye and minimize sagging and signs of aging. This procedure can also help improve vision by addressing skin descending down over the eyes and obstructing your eyesight. If you’re interested in an upper eyelid blepharoplasty, keep reading to learn more about the benefits of the procedure.

Benefits of Upper Eyelid Blepharoplasty

Upper eyelid blepharoplasty is a simple and effective procedure that can be beneficial for various goals. Consider the following:

It Provides Long-Lasting Results

If you’re interested in a long-term solution, upper eyelid blepharoplasty provides long-lasting results. This means there is no need to return for future procedures or follow-up treatments. Many patients may prefer this over other treatments, which may require repeated appointments to maintain results.

It Can Improve Eyesight

With age, the forehead and upper eyelids can begin to sag and droop down over the eye, obstructing the vision. Not only is this frustrating, but it can also be dangerous. An upper eyelid blepharoplasty can remove this excess skin and open the eye area up. This improves eyesight and is also much more comfortable for the patient.

It Can Help the Eyes Appear More Youthful

An upper eyelid blepharoplasty can also tighten the skin around the upper eyelid, effectively lifting the eyelid and opening the area around the eye. When the eyes are open and “awake,” it gives the person a refreshed, rejuvenated look. This can make the eyes appear brighter and more youthful. It can also minimize any lines and sagging skin that may have been contributing to signs of aging.

It Improves Confidence

One of the biggest benefits of this procedure is that it can improve confidence. Many of the major concerns an upper eyelid blepharoplasty addresses, such as drooping eyelids and signs of aging, can lead to feelings of insecurity. By providing a long-term solution, patients can receive a long-lasting solution and a boost of confidence in their appearance moving forward.

Schedule a Blepharoplasty Consultation

If you’re interested in an upper eyelid blepharoplasty in Westlake, OH, schedule a consultation with Renuka Diwan, MD, FAAD, at the Laser & Skin Surgery Center. Dr. Diwan can discuss your concerns and help you decide if you are a candidate for the procedure. Contact the office today at 440-871-9832 or request an appointment online.

Mole Removal: What You Need to Know

Moles are common, usually benign growths on the skin that develop throughout a person’s childhood and teen years. In fact, many people develop between 10 and 45 moles throughout their childhood. They’re often pink, tan, or brown in color and may be flat or raised on the skin. Most moles are harmless; however, you may want to have a mole looked at by a doctor if its appearance changes or it begins to itch or bleed. Despite being relatively harmless, some patients may be interested in mole removal for cosmetic purposes.

Why Do Patients Opt for Mole Removal?

Most patients are likely familiar with mole removal in the form of a biopsy, which is when a mole is removed to test for cancerous or precancerous cells. If it is found to be cancerous, the mole will likely be removed to prevent it from spreading.

However, you can also have a mole removed for cosmetic reasons. In some cases, a person may be unhappy with the location or appearance of the mole. This may cause them to feel concerned about the attention that may be given to the mole. Removing the mole can help patients receive a boost of confidence. Furthermore, in some cases, the mole may be located in a region where it is easily irritated, causing discomfort. For example, if a mole is located on the shoulder, bra straps, tank top straps, and purse straps can rub against it.

No matter the reason, if you’re unhappy with a mole, then mole removal may be the solution for you.

How Is a Mole Removed?

At the Laser Skin and Surgery Center, we remove moles through a quick, simple procedure. We can apply a local anesthetic and carefully remove the mole while leaving the surrounding tissue intact. We can also use a laser to remove the mole. The procedure used depends on the location and size of the mole.

Does Mole Removal Leave a Scar?

Mole removal may leave a scar depending on the mole’s size. However, our team will do their best to remove the mole without harming surrounding tissues. This means it’s affecting as small of an area as possible. With the proper care, any scarring should fade and become minimally visible.

Schedule a Consultation

For patients interested in mole removal or the treatment of other skin growths, schedule a consultation with Renuka Diwan, MD, FAAD, today. You can contact our Westlake, OH, office at 440-871-9832 or request an appointment online.

Who Can Benefit From Earlobe Repair?

Earrings can provide beautiful decoration to the ears. However, in some cases, the earlobes can become damaged and elongated due to injury or years of wearing heavy earrings. Sometimes, the ears can even become split if an earring is tugged out of the ear. With earlobe repair, Dr. Renuka Diwan can correct split or elongated ears, restoring confidence and the ear’s natural shape. Keep reading to learn more about who can benefit from this procedure.

How Is the Earlobe Repaired?

Dr. Diwan approaches each earlobe repair based on the trauma it has experienced. During your initial consultation, she can examine your ears to evaluate the damage and determine how to repair it.

If the earlobe has split, we can apply a local anesthetic, ensuring you’re comfortable during the procedure. Then, both sides of the split are reopened and sewn together to help them heal as one again.

We take a different approach if the earlobe has stretched and become elongated. A local anesthetic will be used to improve comfort, and then Dr. Diwan will remove any excess skin and tissue to shorten the earlobe to fit the natural shape of the ear. The area is then sutured closed to heal.

Who Can Benefit From Earlobe Repair?

Earlobe repair can be beneficial for patients who have experienced many different types of ear trauma, including:

Earring holes that have stretched too much for earring studs
Earlobes that have become stretched due to gauges and other large jewelry
Earlobes that have become elongated or split due to an ear injury, such as ripped-out earrings.

Some patients may also experience earlobe elongation due to age, in which case earlobe repair can help the ears appear more youthful.

Can I Pierce My Ears After Earlobe Repair?

After the ears have fully healed, around six to eight weeks following your procedure, you can have your ears pierced again. However, you should speak with your doctor beforehand to ensure it is okay to proceed with piercings. If you opt to have your ears pierced, wear small earrings to prevent repeat damage and injury.

Schedule a Consultation Today

Earlobe repair is a simple, quick procedure to restore the natural shape of the ears and help patients increase confidence. To learn more about this procedure, schedule a consultation at the Laser Skin and Surgery Center in Westlake, OH, by calling 440-871-9832.

Effective Eye Rejuvenation Techniques for a Youthful Look

Eye rejuvenation involves various surgical and non-invasive treatments to improve the signs of aging around the eyes, making your overall facial appearance look brighter and younger. Here are some of the top techniques to try now.

Top Eye Rejuvenation Techniques

Upper Lid Blepharoplasty

As we age, our eyelids may stretch, and the muscles that support them can gradually weaken. Excess skin and fat then accumulate around the eyelids, leading to common concerns, such as sagging eyebrows, droopy upper lids, and the appearance of bags under the eyes.

Upper blepharoplasty is a transformative surgical procedure that delicately corrects skin, fat, and muscle on the upper eyelids, resulting in a refreshed, rested, and rejuvenated look.

Laser Resurfacing

Laser resurfacing is a non-surgical treatment that improves skin texture and appearance. By using precise laser technology, it can help reduce the appearance of wrinkles or scars, even out skin tone, and tighten skin.

Specifically, laser resurfacing helps with eye rejuvenation by targeting the deep layer of the skin (dermis) to stimulate collagen production. The increased collagen tightens and smoothens the skin under the eyes, which can help with wrinkles and under-eye bags.

Under-eye Filler

Under-eye fillers are cosmetic injectables that can help improve the appearance of dark circles, hollows, and eye bags. As they are injected into the under-eye area, the active ingredients in the fillers add volume to the skin while stimulating collagen and elastin production, helping to keep the area around the eyes crease and wrinkle-free.

Upneeq®

Upneeq is a brand of prescription eye drops that have been approved by the FDA for the treatment of drooping eyelids. It works by contracting the muscles in the upper eyelids, resulting in their slight elevation, which creates a more youthful and alert look. As a once-a-day treatment, it usually takes about 15 minutes to see the effects, and these effects can last for 6 to 8 hours.

Latisse®

Latisse is a prescription medication that offers a wonderful opportunity to enhance the natural beauty of your eyelashes. To achieve optimal results, it is recommended to use Latisse on a daily basis. Typically, it takes a minimum of two months for eyelashes to start thickening, and you can expect to see the full results within three to four months.

Explore Effective Eye Rejuvenation in Westlake, OH

For both time-tested techniques and the latest advancements in eye rejuvenation, visit The Laser & Skin Surgery Center in Westlake, OH. At our practice, we are dedicated to providing you with the safest and most effective treatments available, whether you’re seeking cosmetic enhancements or specific medical procedures.

Schedule an appointment with us today by calling (440) 871-9832.

Mini Facelift or Full Facelift: Which is Right for You?

Aging brings about many changes, including the natural loss of elasticity and collagen in the skin. This leads to fine lines, wrinkles, and sagging of the skin.

With a facelift, you can lift the sagging skin and give the face a younger appearance with smoother skin. There are different types of facelifts. But how do you know which option is right for you? Discover the differences between a mini facelift and a full facelift so you can make an educated decision.

What Does a Full Facelift Involve?

A full facelift will provide the most dramatic results and is ideal for those with more advanced signs of aging, especially on the neck. It targets the cheeks, jawline and the neck.

The procedure utilizes a longer incision to address more areas of the face. and neck The procedures do take a few hours to complete, and you will be under general anesthesia. A full facelift has more substantial results but this also means you will have a longer recovery time.

However, patients love that the results are long-lasting, leaving them feeling confident as they age.

How Does a Mini Facelift Differ?

A mini facelift is a more conservative solution with more limited surgery. It can be performed with local anesthetic while you’re awake for those with moderate signs of aging, like sagging of the cheeks and upper neck. It targets the jowls, upper neck, and marionette folds (from the corners of the mouth to the jawline).

A shorter incision is needed and is hidden around the ears and within the hairline. above the sideburns. The smaller incision is suitable for smaller adjustments with a less invasive procedure.

Recovery from a mini facelift is about one week, with the bandages being removed just 24 hours after the procedure. While the full facelift is longer lasting the benefits of a mini facelift can also last for 5-10 years, with preventive skin care.

Schedule a Consultation

Dr Diwan will perform a thorough assessment and recommend the most suitable type of facelift to achieve your goals. Patients with moderate to severe signs of aging may benefit from a full facelift and will achieve more dramatic results. However, if you have less severe signs of aging and prefer smaller natural looking improvement, that is less noticeable, to a dramatic change, a mini facelift will provide you with the results you’re looking for.

To get started, you can schedule a consultation with Dr. Renuka Diwan to discuss which option will help you meet your goals and learn more details about the procedures. Contact Laser & Skin Surgery Center in Cleveland, OH, at (440) 871-9832.

What Skin Conditions Can Benefit From Laser Resurfacing?

When it comes to acne, sunspots, fine lines, and wrinkles, there is only so much skincare products can do. While cosmetic surgeries to address these issues exist, invasive procedures can be difficult for some patients who cannot take extensive downtime.

That’s why you should consider laser resurfacing. It is a minimally invasive procedure for improving skin appearance and treating various skin conditions. Patients love that the downtime is minimal, and the results are phenomenal.

Learn more about what laser resurfacing is and the skin conditions that can benefit from this innovative treatment.

How Does Fractionated Laser Resurfacing Work?

The Laser & Skin Surgery Center utilizes the CO2RE Laser. This device improves upon the traditional CO2 laser by providing improved results, less downtime, and reduced side effects.

The CO2RE laser uses pulses of light, which penetrate the skin and are absorbed by water in the skin cells. The superficial layer of the skin is vaporized, and the middle layer is heated, stimulating collagen production. Over time, your body’s natural healing process will produce new, healthier layers of skin, causing the skin to appear brighter, smoother, and more youthful.

What Skin Conditions Can Laser Resurfacing Be Used For?

Acne Scars

CO2RE laser is great for treating acne scars because it helps to get rid of the top layer of skin and encourages the body’s natural healing, helping to reduce the appearance of scarring. However, laser resurfacing is not ideal for patients with active acne.

Fine Lines & Wrinkles

This treatment also effectively reduces fine lines and wrinkles by promoting collagen production and helping to create healthier, fuller-looking skin. As you age, collagen is a protein that begins to break down faster than it can be produced, which is why fine lines begin to form. By stimulating collagen production, you can achieve a more youthful appearance.

Skin Damage

Similar to acne scars, skin damage caused by the sun can be treated and reduced, creating a more even skin tone and removing sun spots.

Rosacea

It’s also effective for combating rosacea by treating the broken capillaries that cause the skin to redden and appear flushed.

Schedule a Consultation

If you’re ready to address your skin concerns, schedule a consultation for a CO2RE laser resurfacing treatment in Westlake, OH. Dr. Renuka Diwan, MD, FAAD, is a board-certified dermatologist with over 33 years of experience treating a range of skin conditions. Start your journey to healthier today by calling (440) 871-9832.

Types of Scars That Can Be Corrected by Scar Revision

Scar revision treatments offer many individuals a second chance at regaining the confidence they once had before acquiring their scars. Here are some of the most common types of scars that are treated at the Laser & Skin Surgery Center in Westlake, OH.

Common Types of Scars

Keloid Scars

A keloid scar is a thick, elevated scar that may be noticeably redder or darker than the normal skin around it and is larger than the injury that caused it. A keloid develops when cells and connective tissue in the skin are over-produced in response to an injury.

Injections of cortisone are the first line of treatment for keloid scars; however, keloids may also be surgically removed if injections don’t work.

Hypertrophic Scars

Hypertrophic scars resemble keloid scars but develop only inside the established borders of the injury. Redness, thickness, and elevation are all characteristics of these scars.

Hypertrophic scar revision treatment includes laser surgery and corticosteroid injections. These injections are also often used in combination with surgery to permanently heal the scar.

Acne Scars

Scarring from acne can be challenging, and no single method works for everyone. Boxcar, ice pick, and rolling scars are just a few examples of acne scars. Depending on your acne scar type, skin type, and the degree of the scarring, one or a combination of different methods may help enhance the look of your skin. For the best results, many individuals usually opt for laser resurfacing with other treatments.

Surgical Scars

Surgical scars can be improved by starting early ( in a month after surgery) with a series of three laser treatments to remodel the scar collagen fibres before they are mature.

Accident scars

Scars left by accidents such as cuts or other injuries that lead to a cut in the skin can be revised surgically to change the direction of a scar or break it up to make it less noticeable than a straight line scar. These techniques are called Z-plasty or W-plasty and are performed in the office with local anesthesia.

Explore Scar Revision Treatments in Westlake, OH

Scar revision procedures may be customized to meet the needs of patients of any age. It’s best if you’re in excellent health overall and can put in the time and effort to follow post-treatment care guidelines.

If you have a scar that you would like to correct, find out if you’re a good candidate for scar revision by scheduling a consultation with Dr. Renuka Diwan at The Laser & Skin Surgery Center. Contact (440) 871-9832 today.