FAQ
Dr. Shah and our team here at Gruene House Med Spa want to help you feel comfortable and confident when coming into our office for treatment. For your convenience, we have provided some frequently asked questions to inform you about our services and the benefits they offer.
What is the best way to get rid of fine lines and wrinkles?
At Gruene House Med Spa, we offer a variety of services to help treat the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Some of our most popular treatments include injectables, lasers, and skin treatments. During your consultation, we will discuss which treatment option will best suit your needs and customize a patient plan for the best results.
Which non-surgical facelift is most effective?
We know that each patient is unique, so we customize our non-surgical facelift treatments to your specific needs so that they are most effective for you. Treatment usually consists of a combination of Botox and fillers.
How do you treat aging skin?
Treatment for aging skin will vary from patient to patient, but we typically recommend beginning with a healthy skincare regimen. Some of our services that are specifically designed to reverse signs of aging include hydrafacials, microneedling, laser treatments, and injectables. Our customized treatment plans will be catered to your unique needs and goals.
What is cheek filler?
As we age our skin naturally loses volume. Cheek fillers are used to help replenish volume back into the cheeks to help you look younger and improve the appearance of your under-eye area, smile lines, and jowls.
How long does the treatment take for cheek fillers?
Cheek filler treatments usually last anywhere between 45 minutes to 1 hour.
How long does it take to recover from cheek filler treatment?
Most patients can go right back to work after treatment, but may experience minor redness and/or swelling. Bruising may occur following treatment and is usually resolved within a week to 10 days. You will need to wait 24 hours after the procedure before applying any form of makeup.
What do I need to do to prepare for treatment?
Prior to your procedure, you will need to avoid taking any NSAIDs, aspirin, and fish oil 2 weeks before your scheduled procedure. It is important to avoid consuming alcohol 48 hours before your scheduled appointment. You may use Arnica Montana, a homeopathic supplement, commonly used to reduce bruising and swelling, 5 days before the procedure.
What will my at-home care consist of after treatment?
You will need to avoid touching the treatment area for the rest of the day following your procedure. You can apply ice to help reduce swelling and take Tylenol as needed should you experience any soreness. You should avoid exercise, strenuous activity, and applying any makeup for the first 24 hours. Any dental procedures should wait and be scheduled 2 to 4 weeks after the procedure.
How many sessions will I need and how often?
The number of treatment sessions needed to reach the desired result will vary from patient to patient. You may need 1 to 2 syringes per treatment depending on your condition, and depending on the type of filler being used, results can last up to two years. After that, we typically recommend coming in for touch-up treatments on an annual basis.
Am I a candidate for cheek filler?
During your consultation, we will discuss your medical history to help determine if you are a candidate for cheek filler. We will ask questions about any allergies, past surgeries, and medical conditions you may have as these are important factors in determining whether this treatment will be safe and effective for your individual needs.
What is lip filler?
Lip filler is used to help plump the lips by using a synthetic form of Hyaluronic acid that pulls water towards itself.
How long is the treatment?
Your lip filler appointment will take about 45 minutes, but the injection itself only takes about 15 minutes. During the appointment, we will take photos, conduct a consultation, numb the treatment area, and perform the injection.
Will there be any significant downtime after the procedure?
There is a small amount of downtime with this procedure as swelling usually persists for 48 hours and minor bruising can persist up to 5-7 days.
What do I need to do to prepare for treatment?
You will need to avoid taking any NSAIDS, aspirin, and fish oil starting 2 weeks before your scheduled appointment. You should avoid consuming alcohol 48 hours before your scheduled appointment. You may use Arnica Montana, a homeopathic supplement, commonly used to reduce bruising and swelling, 5 days before the procedure.
What will my at-home care consist of after treatment?
You will need to avoid touching the treatment area for the remainder of the day following your procedure. You can apply ice to help reduce swelling and take Tylenol as needed should you experience any soreness. You should avoid exercise, strenuous activity, and applying any form of makeup for at least 24 hours. Any dental procedures should be scheduled 2 to 4 weeks after the procedure. To keep your lips hydrated, we recommend applying Aquaphor as needed.
How many sessions will I need and how long do they last?
The frequency and number of sessions will be dependent on the product used and your individual goals. Sessions are typically spaced 2-4 weeks apart, but most patients only need 1 to 2 sessions to reach their desired result. The effects can last anywhere from 6-12 months.
Am I a candidate for lip filler?
If you have an allergy to hyaluronic acid or if you have silicone placed within your lips, you are not a candidate for lip filler treatment.
What is Microtox?
Microtox is a technique used to reduce fine lines, pore size, crepiness, redness, and oil/sweat production. During microtox treatment Botox, Dysport, or Jeuveau is injected into the face, neck, or chest to provide a “shrink-wrap” effect on the skin. When injected into the neck, microtox can help provide a lifted, smoother, and more defined profile.
Unlike traditional Botox, microtox does not affect muscle movement or expression. This treatment is a great option for those who want a smoother, more natural-looking result.
How long is the treatment?
Treatment time is largely dependent upon the area being treated. Injections done around the eyes usually take only a few minutes, but treatments performed on the neck or chest can take up to 30 minutes.
Will there be any downtime?
Downtime with microtox is minimal. You will have some small raised bumps around the treated area, but they should diminish after 30-45 minutes. You may experience some minor bruising, but will be able to cover any bruising with makeup after waiting 24 hours following treatment.
What do I need to do to prepare for treatment?
It is important that you stop any NSAIDs, aspirin, and fish oil 2 weeks prior to your appointment and avoid consuming alcohol 48 hours before the scheduled time. You may use Arnica Montana, a homeopathic supplement, commonly used to reduce bruising and swelling, 5 days before the procedure.
What will my at-home care consist of after treatment?
You will need to avoid touching the treated area for the rest of the day following your procedure. You should avoid exercise, strenuous activity, and applying any makeup for the first 24 hours.
How long will results last?
Results for microtox can last anywhere from two to four months.
Am I a candidate for Microtox?
We will discuss whether microtox is the right treatment for you during your consultation.
If you have an allergy to any type of botulinum toxin, a skin infection around the targeted area, if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, you will not be considered a candidate for this treatment. Additionally, patients with excessive skin laxity or festoons are not candidates for treatment in the under-eye area.
How do I know which treatment to get?
The laser treatment we will recommend for you will be largely dependent on your specific goals. Different lasers offer different benefits and downtimes, so we will take your time frame, desired result, and skin type into consideration before making any recommendations. We will discuss all of this during your initial consultation to help find the right treatment for you.
How can I get rid of my sunspots?
We offer a variety of treatments to reduce the appearance of sunspots and sun damage. Depending on your skin type and condition, we may recommend topical treatments, laser treatments, and/or light therapy. We will discuss which option or combination is best suited for your goals and condition during your consultation.
How can I reduce the appearance of spider veins?
Some of our most popular treatments to reduce spider vein visibility include BBL, or Broad Band Light Therapy, and GentleMax Pro Laser. The number of treatments needed can vary, and we will discuss a treatment plan and timeline with you during your consultation.
How does BBL laser therapy work?
BBL, or Broad Band Light therapy, stimulates the production of new collagen through a Sciton Laser device. The device gently heats the skin and has cooling capabilities for minimal patient discomfort.
Can BBL laser therapy be used to treat wrinkles?
BBL laser therapy can also be used to treat wrinkles. This technique allows for healthier and younger-looking skin by correcting sun damage and improving skin texture.
How many treatments will I need?
The number of treatments needed to reach the desired result will vary from patient to patient depending on your individual needs and goals. We typically recommend having treatments done 2-4 times a year to achieve optimal results.
How does the Halo laser treatment work?
Halo laser treatment is used to help reduce the appearance of pore size and fine lines, skin tone and texture, and even correct sun damage and brown spots. This technique uses a fractional laser that combines both ablative and non-ablative technology in order to achieve optimal results with minimal downtime.
How long will it take to see results?
Most patients will be able to see results of treatment 1-2 weeks after the procedure. We typically recommend having touch up treatments done on a yearly basis.
What is vaginal rejuvenation?
Vaginal rejuvenation refers to the restoration of elasticity to the vagina and surrounding tissue through laser therapy. The treatment is quick and painless and can not only improve vaginal elasticity, but reduce discomfort with sexual intercourse, increase lubrication within the vagina, and decrease stress urinary incontinence.
Am I a candidate for vaginal rejuvenation?
Most women who have never had any complicated gynecologic or urogynecologist surgeries will be candidates for vaginal rejuvenation treatment. We will discuss your patient and surgical history with you during your consultation to help determine if this treatment is a good fit for you.
What is Forever Young BBL?
Forever Young BBL is a light therapy technology used to reduce the signs of aging, sun damage, and redness. Through this treatment, patients can achieve a younger, rejuvenated appearance, more even skin tone and texture, and radiant skin.
How long is the treatment?
Treatment time will vary depending on the area being treated. If you wish to have a full face Forever Young BBL treatment, your treatment will be approximately 20-30 minutes.
Will there be any downtime after treatment?
There is a small amount of downtime with this treatment. Pinkness after treatment is common for the first few hours following treatment but may last up to a few days for those with more sensitive skin. Pigmentation will darken, become more prominent, and then gently flake off during the recovery process over the course of 14 days.
If needed, you will be able to safely apply makeup after the treatment if you wish to conceal any pinkness.
What do I need to do to prepare for treatment?
You will want to avoid being in direct sunlight for at least two weeks prior to your appointment and will also need to avoid direct sunlight for 2 weeks following your treatment.
If you are using any products with retinol, discontinue using them 5 days before your treatment. You will be able to resume usage of those products after your skin has recovered from treatment and is no longer sensitive.
What will my aftercare look like?
Following your treatment, you should use a calming cleanser and moisturize daily until your skin is no longer sensitive. Be sure to apply sunscreen with an appropriate SPF and wear a hat if you are going to be outside.
How many treatment sessions will I need?
Treatments are spaced 4 weeks apart and the number of treatments needed will vary from patient to patient. Most patients need at least 3 treatments, and we encourage treatment even after pigmentation and redness subside to help stimulate collagen production and improve long term anti-aging results.
Am I a candidate for Forever Young BBL?
If you are pregnant, have metal implants, or have melasma, you will not be considered a viable candidate for Forever Young BBL treatment.
What is CO2 laser treatment?
CO2 fractional laser resurfacing is effective in stimulating the growth of new healthy skin while removing several outer layers of damaged skin. By using a carbon dioxide laser, the CO2 laser is able to treat the following skin imperfections: fine to moderately deep wrinkles, scarring, sun damage, skin tone, texture, crepiness, and laxity.
How long is the treatment?
The length of treatment is dependent upon the area that is being treated. Most treatments take no more than 2 hours to complete, which includes the 30 minutes needed for topical numbing.
Will there be any downtime with this treatment?
Yes. It will take an average of 7-10 days after treatment for your skin to heal and recover before you can return to your normal activities and go out in public. Peeling and scabbing will occur between 2-7 days after treatment, and your skin may remain pink for 3-4 weeks. The total healing time will vary from patient to patient.
What can I expect after treatment?
Your skin will feel warm immediately after treatment and may experience minor redness and swelling. Most patients will be able to return to their normal activities within 7 days, and we will provide you with a full daily skincare routine to help guide you in the healing process.
When will I notice the results and how long do they last?
One of the benefits of CO2 laser treatment is the results are immediately visible after your first treatment. You will be able to notice an improvement in wrinkles, fine lines, tone, and texture over time as your skin heals and recovers from treatment. Improvement should continue for up to 18 months post-procedure.
How many sessions will I need?
The number of treatments needed to reach the desired result will vary from patient to patient and will largely depend on the depth of the imperfections being treated. Most patients need only one treatment, but those with deeper scarring and wrinkles may require multiple treatments.
Am I a candidate for CO2 laser treatment?
Not every patient will be a candidate for CO2 laser treatment, especially those with underlying health conditions or those who tend to have difficulty healing or scarring. Those who are pregnant or breastfeeding and those with bleeding disorders should not undergo CO2 laser treatment.
What is RF Microneedling?
Radio Frequency (RF) Microneedling is a treatment that promotes the production of collagen and elastin to treat texture irregularities such as acne scars, wrinkles, and sagging skin using a tripolar, radio-frequency device.
How long is the treatment?
Depending on the area being treated, treatment can last anywhere between 45-75 minutes.
Is there any downtime associated with this treatment?
You may experience minimal downtime with “cat-like” scratches that can persist up to 6 days. Your skin may be red and tender for the first 24-48 hours following treatment. You will be able to apply makeup 24 hours after treatment if you wish.
What do I need to do to prepare for treatment?
You will need to have a skincare consultation prior to scheduling RF Microneedling treatment as not everyone is a candidate for this treatment option. We generally recommend pretreating with Alastin Nectar, and depending on your skin type we may recommend additional preparations. Avoid using any exfoliation treatments or products 3-5 days before your scheduled treatment.
What will my post-treatment care look like?
For most treatments, we recommend using an Epionce aftercare kit and Alastin Nectar. If you had a resurfacing treatment for acne scarring, we will recommend an Avene aftercare kit in conjunction with Alastin Nectar.
How many sessions will I need?
We typically recommend weekly treatments for 6 weeks, then on a quarterly basis in order to maintain the results.
Am I a candidate for RF Microneedling?
If you are pregnant, have a pacemaker, or have metal implants in the treatment area you will not be considered for this treatment. Additionally, if you have cancer, an autoimmune disease, uncontrolled diabetes, seizures, vascular disorders, skin that forms keloids, or if you have taken Accutane in the last 6 months, you will not be a candidate for treatment.
What is non-surgical body contouring?
This treatment option uses radio frequency (RF) to damage and kill fat cells in a non-invasive way. This alternative offers zero downtime and provides a smoother and slimmer appearance over time.
What type of body sculpting should I choose?
We offer a few options for body sculpting and can discuss which treatment is best for you during your consultation.
NuEra smoothes the skin using a temperature controlled radio frequency system that is minimally invasive and offers zero downtime. Most patients report that the treatment process is quite comfortable and describe the experience comparable to a warm massage. This technology heats the surface of the skin and penetrates to deeper tissue to treat small pockets of fat on the buttocks, inner and outer thighs, abdomen, and back.
EmSculpt offers similar benefits, but also works to tone muscle while burning fat. This treatment is ideal for those looking to help define muscles.
Is laser hair removal covered by insurance?
Laser Hair Removal along with all other med spa services are considered elective and cosmetic. For this reason, they are not covered by insurance.
What will my treatment include?
We will begin with a consultation to discuss your treatment goals and options and will address any questions or concerns you may have. We use the GentleMax Pro machine for laser hair removal treatments, which provides maximum patient comfort by delivering cryogen air to the area throughout the treatment.
How does it work?
Light pulses emitted by our laser will target melanin in order to destroy hair follicles. The melanin will absorb this light pulse and the laser will damage the follicle just enough to prohibit the growth of new hair follicles, but will not damage the surrounding skin. After several treatments, we will be able to prevent the growth of new hairs in over 80% of the follicles.
How many sessions will I need?
Most patients need approximately 6 treatments in order to achieve their desired results. Those who require more sessions to reach their goals typically have between 8 and 12 sessions. Sessions will be spaced anywhere from 4-8 weeks apart depending on the area being treated.
It is important to note that laser hair removal is considered a permanent hair reduction, but often maintenance treatments may be needed on an annual basis in order to maintain their results after their initial treatment.
Am I a candidate for laser hair removal?
Those who have areas of light hair (either blonde or gray) are the best candidates for laser hair removal. If you are pregnant or nursing you will not be considered a viable candidate at this time. Also, if you have any active infections or if you are currently taking Accutane and photosensitizing antibiotics or medications, you will not be considered a candidate for this treatment.
How should I prepare for treatment?
To prepare for treatment, please shave 24 hours before your scheduled appointment, but do not wax or pluck hairs. Avoid direct sunlight to the treatment area for at least 2-4 weeks before and after your treatment. Additionally, abstain from using self-tanners for 2 weeks prior to your appointment and products containing Glycolic Acid or Retin-A at least 7 days before your treatment.
What can I expect after treatment?
After your treatment, you will need to avoid hot showers and baths, swimming pools and hot tubs, saunas and steam rooms, and working out. These activities can irritate the area. You may experience some swelling around the hair follicles in the treated area and may remain for 2 hours following treatment and minor redness may persist for up to 3 days. You may experience minor discomfort in the treated area that is similar to the feeling of a sunburn, but it should subside after a few hours.
What is a HydraFacial?
Hydrafacial treatments work to improve congested and enlarged pores by combining cleansing, exfoliation, extraction, hydration, and antioxidant protection all in one easy step. Hydrafacials are considered a hydradermabrasion treatment and are able to be performed on all skin types.
Does the HydraFacial help with wrinkles?
Yes! This treatment option can help to improve the appearance of wrinkles in combination with a healthy home skincare regimen. For best results, we recommend maintaining touch up treatments.
How long do results last for peels?
Results will vary depending on the depth of the peel. You may have some flaking for 2 weeks after your treatment revealing the new, glowing skin underneath. While each patient will have their own unique experience, the peel will usually help brighten your skin for a few months following treatment. When done correctly, chemical peels are very healthy for your skin!
What is microblading?
Microblading is an ideal treatment option for those looking to improve the appearance of their brows. This technique is semi-permanent and gives the illusion of having fuller brows.
How long do results last?
Results of microblading treatment can last anywhere from 12-18 months. The longevity of your results will be largely dependent on your skin type and lifestyle.
Is this treatment painful?
Typically, no. We will apply a topical numbing cream 25 minutes prior to your procedure so that you are as comfortable as possible. For this reason, most patients have minimal pain, swelling, and bleeding, if they experience any at all.
How long does the treatment take?
Treatment will take only about an hour and a half from start to finish.
How does it work?
Treatment is broken up into two parts: your initial appointment followed by an additional session 4-6 weeks after.
Results usually last anywhere from 12-18 months, but most patients elect to have a touch-up treatment around the 9 month mark for optimal results and maintenance. If your skin is particularly oily, if you are very active, or if you spend quite a bit of time outdoors you may consider getting a touch-up treatment sooner. For those with dry skin and those who don’t spend a lot of time in the sun, you may not need a touch-up treatment until the 12 month mark.
Please note that the cost of your touch-up treatment will be dependent upon how long it has been since your initial appointment.
What if I have had previous eyebrow tattooing or microblading done in the past?
In these cases, we will need to see a photo of your eyebrows without any makeup prior to scheduling an appointment so that we can assess the situation and plan treatment accordingly.
What do I need to do to prepare for my appointment and follow up care?
It is important that you refrain from consuming any blood thinners such as alcohol or Advil at least 24 hours before your scheduled treatment. We also recommend shampooing your hair before coming in for your appointment as you will not be able to submerge your brows in water or sweat for a few days after treatment.
We will send you home with an ointment that you will need to apply to the area for a few nights following treatment along with aftercare instructions that will be specific to your skin type.
While your brows may look different as they go through the stages of healing, it is important to note that these changes are not as noticeable to others.
Am I a candidate for this treatment?
Microblading is typically not recommended for women who are pregnant or nursing and for those undergoing chemotherapy treatments. If you still wish to seek treatment, you will need to consult with your doctor and provide a note saying you are cleared for treatment before scheduling an appointment with us. Additionally, those who are taking blood thinners are not candidates for this treatment.
Will Microblading affect my ability to grow hair?
No, Microblading does not affect your body’s ability to grow hair.
When will I be able to wear makeup again?
Regular face makeup can be worn right after treatment, but you will need to wait at least one week before applying any makeup to your brows
