Category Archives: ANTI-AGING + PROCEDURES + MEDICAL AESTHETICS

Undoing the Damage: Under-Eye Filler Migration and Why Savvy Women Are Turning to Dr. Taban

December 2, 2024

Under-eye filler was once hailed as the holy grail of subtle rejuvenation—a quick, relatively painless fix to mask tired eyes and hollows. But as years roll by, the story changes. Seasoned aesthetics aficionados are seeing a less flattering side of those beloved syringes: filler migration, lumps, and that dreaded “puffy” look that seems to defy their initial goals.

This isn’t a matter of if—it’s a matter of when. And when it happens, the question becomes: How do you correct it? For many, the answer is lower blepharoplasty. And for those in the know, the name at the top of their list is Dr. Mehryar (Ray) Taban.

The Migration Problem: Why Fillers Fail You Long-Term

Let’s be clear—under-eye filler isn’t bad. When done well, by the right injector, it’s a fantastic option. But filler isn’t static. Over time, it can migrate, attract water, and lose its initial shape, leaving many with puffiness or uneven contours.

Dr. Taban sees countless patients seeking to correct what years of filler have left behind. His approach? A surgical precision that only a board-certified oculoplastic surgeon can offer. During our consultation, he explained his method of addressing filler migration with lower blepharoplasty. Unlike the outdated “fat removal” approach, he repositions the fat pads under the lid to restore harmony and balance.

For long-term results, repositioning the fat is key. Simply removing it can lead to a hollow look, and fat transfers often don’t last or behave predictably over time. His goal is to rejuvenate the eyes while keeping everything as natural and timeless as possible.

The Subtle Art of Under-the-Lid Surgery

What sets Dr. Taban apart is not just his technique, but his artistry. Lower blepharoplasty, particularly when correcting filler migration, isn’t about big, obvious changes. It’s about subtle, almost imperceptible adjustments that make people say, “You look so well-rested,” not “What did you have done?”

Dr. Taban’s approach under the lid to reposition the existing fat pad ensures a smooth, youthful transition from lower lid to cheek—one of the trickiest areas to get right. It’s also why his patients rave about their results, often saying it’s the best decision they’ve made for their appearance.

Why He Skips Fat Transfer (Or at least for me!)

Here’s where Dr. Taban deviates from many other surgeons: he avoids fat transfer. For those well-versed in aesthetic procedures, you’ve likely heard mixed reviews about transferring fat to the under-eye area. Dr. Taban is upfront about his stance.

Basically – fat transfer is unpredictable and can dissipate over time. It’s not a technique that can stand the test of time, and fat transfer simply doesn’t offer the consistency my patients expect.”

It’s refreshing to hear this honesty from a surgeon who prioritizes results over trends, especially in a field where every new technique promises the next best thing.

The Upper Lid Conversation

Of course, no consultation about the eyes is complete without touching on the upper lid. For many women, addressing the lower lid highlights issues with the upper. Dr. Taban excels at upper blepharoplasty, expertly removing excess skin and redefining the eyelid’s contours to complement the overall aesthetic. He said we would remove just a touch – and it was up to me if I wanted to add a temporal brow lift.  I really do, but for now, I am still not ready for any scars in my hairline. He thinks I do not really need it now…so I think I have my answer for now. (But I really do would love my brows to not drop on the ends – hmmm…I will think this one over)

The result? Balanced, rejuvenated eyes that enhance your natural beauty without ever tipping into “done” territory.

Credentials That Matter

Dr. Taban isn’t just any surgeon; he’s an oculoplastic surgeon—an elite subspecialty dedicated solely to the delicate structures of the eyes. With a background in ophthalmology and advanced training in plastic surgery, he brings a rare level of expertise to the table. His meticulous techniques and patient-first philosophy have made him a sought-after name in Los Angeles and beyond.

He’s also a prolific contributor to medical literature, with articles on filler migration, eyelid surgery, and innovative techniques to address aging in the eye area. Dr. Taban’s expertise doesn’t stop in the operating room. He’s also a prolific contributor to the field, having published extensively on under-eye rejuvenation, filler migration, and advanced techniques in blepharoplasty. His articles delve into how filler interacts with surrounding tissue over time, the limitations of non-surgical solutions, and why surgery remains the gold standard for addressing long-term concerns.

Why He’s on Our Top Docs List

Dr. Taban is the kind of surgeon savvy patients (and celebs – wow, his wall of photos! I am not naming names!)  trust—not because of flashy marketing or the latest gimmick, but because he gets it. He understands the subtle art of rejuvenation and the science behind lasting results.

If you’re dealing with filler migration, puffiness, or simply want to address aging around the eyes, Dr. Taban’s expertise in lower and upper blepharoplasty is unmatched.

Quick Links to Dr. Taban

  • Location: Los Angeles, CA
  • Website: tabanmd.com
  • Specialty: Oculoplastic and reconstructive surgery

Consider this your sign to graduate from fillers and embrace a more lasting solution with Dr. Taban. Because when it comes to your eyes, there’s no room for second best.

More about Dr. Taban

Dr. Mehryar (Ray) Taban grew up in the Los Angeles area. After graduating Summa Cum Laude from UCLA and medical school at the University of California, Irvine, he moved to the world-renowned Cleveland Clinic for ophthalmology residency, where he was selected as Chief Resident. Dr. Taban then moved back to Los Angeles for a two-year oculofacial cosmetic and reconstructive plastic surgery fellowship at the prestigious Jules Stein Eye Institute at UCLA. He then pursued further fellowship training in cosmetic facial surgery under Dr. Ronald Strahan in Santa Monica, CA.

Dr. Mehryar (Ray) Taban is one of the few surgeons who is board certified by the American Board of Ophthalmology (AAO or ABO) and American Society of Oculofacial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (ASOPRS)  and diplomat of the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery (ABCS). Dr. Taban specializes in eyelid and facial plastic (cosmetic and reconstructive) surgery. He uses the latest technology in surgery, including minimal incision techniques, to provide quicker recovery times and natural outcomes.

Dr. Taban has authored numerous scientific articles and textbook chapters. He has been invited to speak at many national and international meetings. He has also received numerous awards and honors, including the prestigious Alpha Omega Honor (AΩA), the 2009 American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery Webster Paper Award, and the American Academy of Ophthalmology Achievement Award. He practices oculoplastic surgery in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, and Santa Barbara.

Dr. Taban is a course instructor at the annual UCLA Eyelid Aesthetic Rejuvenation Course, held every summer, where physicians/surgeons from around the country came to learn advanced oculoplastic techniques, including various eyelid and orbital plastic surgery techniques. The course includes both cadaver dissection portion and lecture/didactic day.

 

 

 

My V Shot Experience at R3 Anti Aging in Beverly Hills

October 13, 2024

In my quest to optimize and bio-hack sexual wellness—especially for midlife women—I’ve explored a lot of treatments and therapies. But nothing has intrigued me as much as the V Shot, a treatment designed to rejuvenate vaginal and clitoral function using platelet-rich plasma (PRP). So, when I heard that R3 Anti Aging in Beverly Hills offered this cutting-edge procedure, I decided it was time to give it a try. Spoiler alert: it was painless, quick, and I’m already thrilled with the results.

Now, let’s dive into what makes the V Shot so innovative. The treatment involves drawing a small sample of your blood, isolating the PRP in a centrifuge, and then injecting it into targeted areas of the vagina and clitoris. PRP is packed with growth factors, which work to stimulate tissue regeneration, increase blood flow, and regenerate nerves. Essentially, the V Shot leverages your body’s own healing abilities to improve sensitivity, arousal, and pleasure. It’s non-surgical, minimally invasive, and has no downtime—yes, you read that right!

When I arrived at R3 Anti-Aging, I was greeted by a serene, modern clinic, and my doctor, Dr. Sabrina Solt, —a fantastic and empathetic professional—walked me through every step. After applying a numbing cream to ensure maximum comfort, they drew a small sample of my blood. That was the most “invasive” part of the whole thing. From there, the blood was spun in a centrifuge to extract the PRP, which was then injected with a fine needle into the key areas. The entire process took less than 30 minutes, and aside from a slight pressure sensation, it was completely painless. I was able to walk out of the clinic and get right back to my day.

So, why opt for the V Shot? For me, it wasn’t just about enhancing pleasure—though that’s a major bonus—but also addressing issues that many women face in midlife. The V Shot can help with low libido, vaginal dryness, pain during intercourse, and even urinary incontinence. It also offers benefits for those dealing with vaginal atrophy or a loss of tightness. While I’m lucky enough not to have experienced all of these issues, I’ve had clients and friends who have, and they rave about the improvement in their quality of life after the V Shot.

Here are of the questions that I had for Dr. Solt!

Is there pain or discomfort after, once numbing wears off?

There should be no lingering pain or discomfort after the procedure, except a possible feeling of fullness.

How long does it last?

In general, the results are a person gets are usually theirs to keep long term! Of course we have our natural state of aging and degeneration, so some people might benefit from repeating the procedure every 1-3 years.

When can patients experience noticeable changes – and what can they expect?

One healing cycle takes approximately 6-12 weeks, but many patients report a change within the first 30 days. Usually these changes represent improvement in the areas of sensitivity and orgasm intensity.

How often should patients do this?

One treatment is where we like to start, and the discussion of whether or not to add additional ones should be between you and your doctor based on your results and goals.

Who is not a good candidate?

Examples of people who are not good candidates include but are not limited to: Smokers, people with a BMI of over 30, people on certain medications like NSAIDs or opiates, women with active vaginal or vulvar lesions (such as in lichen sclerosus or certain STIs), pregnant women, or those with stage 3 or greater uterine prolapse.

The science behind it is fascinating. Studies show that PRP injections can significantly enhance female sexual function, with improvements in desire, arousal, orgasm, and overall satisfaction. The treatment works by encouraging the growth of new tissue and blood vessels in the treated areas, and the effects continue to build over the next few months. While some women report immediate changes, for most—including me—the full benefits take time to unfold. That’s exciting because it means things will only get better from here.

The post-procedure recovery was almost non-existent. The clinic advises patients to abstain from intercourse for three days afterward, but I can tell you it’s totally optional. I didn’t abstain and felt completely comfortable resuming normal activities. Minor side effects like slight swelling or tenderness can occur, but they typically subside within a day or two.

As someone who writes frequently about sexual health and wellness, especially for midlife women, I think the V Shot is a groundbreaking tool. It’s more than just a quick fix—it’s a way to reclaim your sexual health, connect with your body, and enhance pleasure naturally. This procedure isn’t about treating dysfunction alone, it’s about optimizing sexual wellness, boosting confidence, and owning your pleasure in a way that feels empowering. For women navigating midlife changes, that sense of control over one’s body is invaluable.

So, would I do it again? Absolutely. The V Shot has already started to make me feel more attuned to my body, and I’m excited to see how the benefits continue to evolve over the next few months. The idea of having more intense orgasms, heightened sensitivity, and improved arousal on the horizon is thrilling. Plus, knowing that it’s a natural, PRP-based procedure makes it even better.

For those curious about taking the leap into the world of sexual wellness optimization, I highly recommend exploring the V Shot. It’s a simple, safe, and effective way to embrace a healthier, more connected version of yourself. And if you’re in the Beverly Hills area, R3 Anti-Aging is hands-down the place to go.

Here’s to a future of more fulfilling, empowered sexual wellness. Ladies, it’s time to own it.

 

R3 Anti Aging

9301 Wilshire Boulevard
Penthouse
Beverly Hills, California 90210

Revive Med Spa: Beauty and Innovation Arrives In Laguna Niguel

August 25, 2024

Laguna Niguel, renowned for its breathtaking coastline and artistic flair, is about to welcome a new beacon of beauty and sophistication: Revive Med Spa. While the grand opening is slated for the (very) near future, you can – and should – book in for a signature service as soon as August 27th, 2024. This expansion marks a significant milestone as the 11th location for the brand, with a continued commitment to elevating the standards of aesthetic care with its impeccable blend of cutting-edge technology, expert practitioners, and unparalleled service. In short: if a five star hotel and a med spa had a baby it would look very much like Revive; elegance, luxury and sophistication is at the core of what helps to make this med spa stand out from the rest.

Having experienced the magic of Revive Med Spa firsthand at their Woodland Hills location where I fell head over heels for Michelle’s transformative touch, I can’t help but be thrilled about this new addition. Her magic with injectables and treatments has always been a revelation, and knowing the Laguna Niguel locale will uphold that same standard is beyond exciting for the community.

Revive Med Spa: A Legacy of Excellence

Revive Med Spa has earned its reputation as a top-tier destination for aesthetic treatments across California. They are the leading provider of Botox® Cosmetic, Juvederm® Injectable Gel, Voluma™, and other premier treatments. This prestigious status is underscored by their Allergan Black Diamond award, a testament to their unmatched expertise and dedication to excellence.

As they expand into Laguna Niguel they bring with them a wealth of advanced services designed to meet every beauty need:

  • Botox® Cosmetic: Smooths fine lines and wrinkles for a youthful, refreshed appearance.
  • Juvederm® Injectable Gel: Restores volume and enhances facial contours with natural-looking results.
  • Halo Hybrid Fractional Laser: Combines deep dermal rejuvenation with superficial skin resurfacing for a glowing complexion.
  • Kybella®: Targets and reduces unwanted fat beneath the chin for a more sculpted profile.
  • CoolSculpting®: Non-surgical fat reduction that freezes away stubborn fat with minimal downtime.
  • Sculptra®: Stimulates collagen production to restore facial volume and reduce wrinkles.

A Membership Program That Shines

Revive Med Spa offers the Revive Radiance Membership, which is an exclusive membership that grants access to significant savings on a range of injectables and treatments throughout the year. With the Radiance Membership, you not only enjoy reduced prices but also benefit from the personalized care that Revive is known for. It’s a perfect way to maintain your beauty regimen while enjoying continuous savings.

Led by Expertise: Dr. Leif Rogers

Adding to the allure of Revive Med Spa is the presence of Dr. Leif Rogers as the medical director. An Ivy League graduate and board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon, Dr. Rogers is a leader in the field of aesthetic medicine. His expertise in microsurgical reconstruction and the latest techniques in facial rejuvenation and body contouring ensures that every treatment is performed with the highest level of precision and care. Dr. Rogers’s involvement at Revive Med Spa promises an extraordinary level of skill and innovation that sets the spa apart. Dr. Rogers has been my personal surgeon and I cannot rave enough about his work and integrity.

With multiple locations across California, Revive Med Spa continues to expand its reach, bringing their world-class services closer to those who seek the best in beauty and wellness. The Laguna Beach location is set to be a sanctuary of sophistication and innovation, where each visit promises a transformative experience.

For those eager to embark on a journey of radiant skin and enhanced beauty, Revive Med Spa offers complimentary consultations to explore treatment options and pricing. As they open their doors in Laguna Niguel, they invite you to discover the pinnacle of aesthetic care and experience firsthand why Revive Med Spa is a leader in the industry.

Prepare to indulge in the ultimate beauty experience with Revive Med Spa, where every treatment is a step towards achieving the best version of yourself.

24022 Aliso Creek Road
Laguna Niguel, CA 92677
[email protected]
Sun 9a-5p, Mon-Sat 8a-8p
P: 424.610.9695

Medical spa patients can book services online  or call  or text 949.996.0510  for assistance!

Revive Med Spa in Topanga Village: Elevating Aesthetic Excellence

May 17, 2024

I am thrilled to report on this gem in Topanga Village, as this marks our first feature on an aesthetics destination in this area.  Nestled in the tranquil ambiance of Topanga Village, Revive Med Spa stands as a beacon of advanced aesthetics and rejuvenation. From the moment you step inside, you are enveloped by a serene environment that promises an experience far beyond typical spa treatments. Revive Med Spa combines cutting-edge techniques with a retreat-like atmosphere, making it the ultimate destination for anyone seeking to enhance their natural beauty.

Revive Med Spa has been the premier medical spa in San Diego since 2006, proudly voted “Best Place to Get Botox” in the region. As a top 10 provider of MORPHEUS8, BOTOX®, JUVÉDERM®, and LATISSE in the nation, and the #1 provider of CoolSculpting® in California, they offer the most advanced and innovative treatments. The med spa also features leading brands in medical-grade skincare, including SkinMedica, Alastin, and SkinCeuticals.

As an aesthetics enthusiast, I am always on the lookout for the best treatments and practitioners. During my recent visit to Revive Med Spa in Topanga Village, I booked an appointment with Michele, one of the highly acclaimed practitioners, for a baby Botox touch-up and some facial balancing and optimizing. Her expertise and meticulous attention to detail quickly put me at ease, and I knew I was in good hands.

We decided on using Restylane Lift for my cheeks and Restylane L for my lips and nasolabial folds. Restylane Lift is known for its ability to provide volume and contour to the cheeks, delivering a subtle yet noticeable lift that enhances the natural bone structure. Restylane L, on the other hand, is perfect for adding volume to the lips and smoothing out nasolabial folds, ensuring a balanced and youthful appearance.

The procedure was efficient and surprisingly comfortable, thanks to Michele’s gentle technique and the use of a numbing cream. She carefully injected the Restylane Lift into my cheeks, providing an immediate and natural-looking lift with more defined cheekbones. This subtle enhancement made a significant difference, giving my face a refreshed, well balanced appearance.

 

Next, Michele focused on my lips and nasolabial folds with Restylane L. She skillfully added volume to my lips, enhancing their shape without making them look overdone. The nasolabial folds were softened, creating a smoother and more harmonious facial contour.

The results were immediate and exceeded my expectations. My cheeks had a beautiful lift and contour, my lips looked naturally fuller, and the nasolabial folds were significantly reduced. Michele’s artistry with the fillers ensured that all enhancements looked natural and balanced, highlighting my features without any hint of artificiality.

Revive Med Spa in Topanga Village is not just a place for treatments; it is a journey toward self-enhancement and confidence. The combination of a serene environment, state-of-the-art techniques, and skilled professionals like Michele makes it a top choice for anyone looking to elevate their natural beauty.

If you are considering facial enhancements or simply want to indulge in the best aesthetics care, I highly recommend a visit to Revive Med Spa. My experience with Michele and the transformative results of the Restylane Lift and Restylane L treatments have been fantastic.

revive.md

Phone:(747) 777-4518

6320 CA-27, Ste 1623Woodland Hills, CA 9136717.85 mi

*Images included in this article courtesy of Revive Med Spa Eastlake location

My Journey with DAXXIFY®: A Game-Changer in the World of Neuromodulators

March 26, 2024

Daxxify

As a beauty editor deeply entrenched in the world of skincare innovations, I’m always on the lookout for treatments that offer a perfect blend of science and effectiveness. Enter DAXXIFY®, a revolutionary neuromodulator promising extended results that caught my attention. Guiding me through this journey is Michele Chahine PA, my long-time/go-to esteemed injector with a wealth of experience in aesthetic medicine. With over a decade of expertise in the field, Michele stands as a beacon of excellence in the industry. As the Founder of @methodofbeauty, her dedication to personalized treatments has garnered her a loyal following. Having been under Michele’s care for years, her credentials and commitment to her patients make her the ideal partner in exploring the wonders of DAXXIFY®.

“DAXXIFY® is FDA approved to smooth moderate to severe lines between the brows. It is the only frown line treatment powered by a peptide. The active ingredient in DAXXIFY® is a purified protein called botulinum toxin type A.”

DAXXIFY® represents a significant advancement in the field of neuromodulators, offering a unique formulation designed to deliver longer-lasting results compared to its counterparts. Unlike traditional toxin freezers like Botox, DAXXIFY® harnesses the power of peptides to enhance its efficacy and duration of action. Peptides, with their strong positive charge, play a pivotal role in DAXXIFY®’s mechanism of action, ensuring a more targeted and sustained interaction with nerve cells. This unique approach not only sets DAXXIFY® apart but also guarantees longer-lasting results and a tailored treatment experience.

As Michele administered the DAXXIFY® injections with her characteristic precision of course, I was struck by the science behind the treatment, as she filled me in about what makes it so special – and why it has now become the new go-to.  I trust Michele implicitly for her keenly natural approach to facial balance and profound knowledge of facial anatomy, which made trying something totally new – a breeze. Her expertise ensured that my treatment was not only effective but also aligned with my individual skincare goals.

“All frown line treatments require a special ingredient to stabilize botulinum toxin A, the protein responsible for helping smooth moderate to severe frown lines. For instance, Botox® Cosmetic uses human serum albumin (HSA), a blood product, as its stabilizer. Dysport®, another frown line treatment, uses HSA as a stabilizer and cow’s milk protein as a protectant.”

DAXXIFY® is unique because it is the only formulation that uses a novel peptide as a stabilizer and does not contain human or animal byproducts.

It’s now been almost two weeks since my DAXXIFY® treatment and the results speak for themselves. My skin texture already improved, and fine lines faded away. I look beyond refreshed and rejuvenated. I’m glowing in a way I had not from other neuromodulators.

How is DAXXIFY® different from other frown line treatments?

“DAXXIFY® is the only frown line treatment powered by a peptide. It’s fast acting, long lasting and slow to wear off.*

All frown line treatments require a special ingredient to stabilize botulinum toxin A, the protein responsible for helping smooth moderate to severe frown lines. For instance, Botox® Cosmetic uses human serum albumin (HSA), a blood product, as its stabilizer. Dysport®, another frown line treatment, uses HSA as a stabilizer and cow’s milk protein as a protectant.

DAXXIFY® is unique because it is the only formulation that uses a novel peptide as a stabilizer and does not contain human or animal byproducts.

*Results as early as the next day and typically within 2 days. At least 50% of patients in clinical studies had no or minor frown lines 6 months after treatment.”

The potential longevity of the results, reaffirmed my confidence in DAXXIFY® as a game-changer in the realm of neuromodulators. DAXXIFY® represents a new frontier in skincare with its innovative formulation and I thrilled to be able to share the word on this with you all!

 

 

ABOUT MICHELE MESSIAH CHAHINE, MS, PA-C

BOARD CERTIFIED PHYSICIAN ASSISTANT | CERTIFIED IN DERMATOLOGY
MASTER INJECTOR | ANTI-AGING EXPERT | SKIN SPECIALIST

Michele Messiah Chahine, PA-C is a Board Certified Physician Assistant specializing in dermatology and medical aesthetics. She earned her Masters of Science degree in Physician Assistant studies at Western University of Health Sciences and holds a degree in Psychology-Biology from UCLA.

11645 Wilshire Boulevard
Los Angeles, CA 90025, US
+1 310-746-3174
[email protected]
Get directions

Monday – Sunday 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Special appointment times every 2-3 months. Please Pre-Book to guarantee your spot.