Looking and feeling your best is an important part of boosting mood, increasing confidence and impacting mental health. In a time when a global pandemic can shift priorities, many of these areas may get neglected. When it comes to putting your best face forward, Carle offers the latest in skin care and cosmetic services through our certified plastic surgery nurse practitioner and esthetician.
Understanding the benefits and simplicity of these treatments can make choosing the right option easier. For Jenni Austin of Sidney, attending an open house with Carle Plastic Surgery and sampling products was the gateway to a refreshed look.
“My work as a Carle buyer for the Plastic Surgery department is what first piqued my interest,” Austin said. “I came across a procedure for eyelash lifting and thought I’d give it a try.”
Having already planned for a day off, she took advantage of the free time to show herself some self-care with an eyelash lift and tinting.
“The entire process, including check in, was very simple, quick and easy,” she said. “The staff explained every step and I felt no pain. It took about an hour, and my aesthetician Allison was so gentle and soothing – I almost fell asleep.”
But comfort isn’t the only important part of the treatment process. Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, safety is another top priority at the forefront of patient care.
“All of the COVID precautions were in place,” she said. “The team wore face masks and face shields, and I was screened for symptoms, including a temperature check.”
For many, it can be overwhelming knowing where to start or if these cosmetic procedures are right for them. Television, film and advertising can make it challenging for some to understand what their expectations are for treatment. Jennifer Lieb, FNP, Plastic Surgery, said balancing this expectation can be a challenge when planning treatment.
“Too often, people think of cosmetic surgery and visualize the ‘overdone’ look often seen on TV. When I mention fillers, most people’s eyes get bigger than saucers,” Lieb said. “Soft and natural results are the goal for me when treating patients, and I work to establish reasonable expectations to achieve these goals”
Carle offers a wide variety of options for cosmetic treatment, including:
- Injectables and fillers
- Microneedling
- Chemical and non-chemical peels and facials
- Dermaplaning
- Laser skin treatment
- Hair reduction therapy
- Eyelash and eyebrow tinting
During a consultation, your provider will assess your face, show you previews that mimic results of fillers or laser treatments and walk through different treatment options.
“I like to give my recommendations based on my patient’s concerns,” she said. “You aren’t required to make any decisions at that point, because I don’t want you to feel rushed. However, I do recommend a proactive approach, because it’s better to prevent signs of aging earlier rather than dealing with them later when more treatment is needed for results.”
Lieb said Botox® is another commonly requested treatment. Known for its minimal downtime and competitive pricing, it has many uses in cosmetic medicine that can be a great starting place.
“It’s important to know that aging is not a one-size-fits-all process. This is something we dive into in the consultation process,” she said. “My goal is for you to look like yourself with an overall refreshed and natural appearance.”
Lieb also said that seeing a patient’s progress and watching their reaction to shedding years off their face is why she is so passionate about cosmetic procedures.
“I’ll definitely return,” Austin said. “As I get older, I notice those fine lines and wrinkles. I’m currently learning more about facial peels and the ways it can repair and remove sun damage.”
To schedule a consultation with our team of cosmetic experts, call (217) 902-7527. Carle Plastic Surgery is located at Carle Outpatient Services at The Fields and is available Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
To learn more about the comprehensive services offered by Carle Plastic Surgery, visit www.carle.org/services/plastic-surgery.
Categories: Culture of Quality
Tags: “Cosmetics”, “esthetician”, “Plastic, “reconstruction”, Champaign-Urbana, surgery”