Dr. Kristin Egan M.D. FACS

Category: FACE & NECK

  • Belotero Balance in Manhattan Beach: Advanced Hyaluronic Acid Filler for Natural-Looking Results

    Belotero Balance represents a breakthrough in dermal filler technology, offering patients in Manhattan Beach and Torrance a sophisticated approach to facial rejuvenation. Dr. Kristin Egan utilizes this FDA-approved hyaluronic acid filler to deliver natural-looking results with exceptional versatility for treating both fine lines and deeper facial wrinkles.

    What Is Belotero Balance?

    Belotero Balance is an injectable dermal filler made from hyaluronic acid (HA), a substance naturally found in your skin that binds with water to maintain volume and hydration. What sets Belotero apart from other fillers is its unique cohesive polydensified matrix technology, which allows for seamless integration with your natural skin tissue.

    Unlike traditional hyaluronic acid fillers, Belotero Balance features high cohesion, low viscosity, and low elasticity properties. These characteristics enable the filler to spread smoothly and evenly throughout the treatment area, creating natural-looking results that feel authentic to the touch.

    How Belotero Balance Works

    The science behind Belotero Balance lies in its innovative manufacturing process. The hyaluronic acid molecules are cross-linked using a specialized technique that creates a homogeneous gel with optimal integration properties. When injected, this advanced formulation:

    • Integrates Seamlessly: The filler disperses evenly within your skin’s structure rather than sitting as a separate layer
    • Binds with Natural Moisture: Hyaluronic acid attracts and retains water molecules, plumping the skin from within
    • Adapts to Facial Movement: The flexible consistency moves naturally with your facial expressions
    • Provides Immediate Results: Visible improvement occurs instantly upon injection

    This unique integration ability makes Belotero particularly effective for treating delicate areas where other fillers might create visible bumps or irregularities.

    Treatment Areas and Applications

    Primary Treatment Zones

    Nasolabial Folds (Smile Lines)
    Belotero Balance effectively softens the lines that run from the nose to the corners of the mouth, creating a more youthful appearance while maintaining natural facial expressions.

    Vertical Lip Lines (Smoker’s Lines)
    The fine lines above the upper lip respond exceptionally well to Belotero’s smooth consistency, providing subtle correction without affecting lip movement.

    Marionette Lines
    Lines extending downward from the corners of the mouth can be softened with precise Belotero placement, lifting the overall facial expression.

    Tear Trough Area
    The delicate under-eye region benefits from Belotero’s gentle integration properties, reducing hollowing and dark circles with natural-looking volume restoration.

    Advanced Applications

    Lip Enhancement
    Belotero provides subtle lip augmentation, adding volume and definition while maintaining the natural texture and movement of the lips.

    Cheek Contouring
    Strategic placement can enhance cheek definition and restore age-related volume loss in the mid-face area.

    Chin and Jawline Refinement
    Minor chin wrinkles and jawline irregularities can be smoothed with precise Belotero injections.

    Treatment Experience at Dr. Egan’s Practice

    Initial Consultation

    Dr. Egan begins each Belotero treatment with a comprehensive facial assessment. During your Manhattan Beach consultation, she evaluates:

    • Your facial anatomy and skin characteristics
    • Specific areas of concern and aesthetic goals
    • Previous filler experiences and desired outcomes
    • Medical history and treatment contraindications

    This thorough evaluation ensures optimal treatment planning and natural-looking results.

    The Injection Process

    Preparation: The treatment area is cleansed and may be numbed with topical anesthetic for enhanced comfort.

    Injection Technique: Using fine needles or cannulas, Dr. Egan carefully places Belotero at precise depths within the skin layers.

    Immediate Assessment: Results are visible immediately, allowing for real-time adjustments to achieve optimal outcomes.

    Post-Treatment Care: Patients receive detailed aftercare instructions to optimize healing and results.

    The entire procedure typically takes 15-30 minutes, depending on the number of treatment areas.

    Results and Timeline

    Immediate Benefits

    • Visible improvement in treated areas within minutes
    • Smooth, natural-looking correction
    • Maintained facial expressiveness
    • Minimal to no downtime required

    Longevity and Maintenance

    Belotero Balance results typically last 6-9 months, with some patients experiencing benefits for up to a year. Factors affecting longevity include:

    • Individual metabolism and skin characteristics
    • Treatment area and injection depth
    • Lifestyle factors such as sun exposure and smoking
    • Facial movement patterns and expressions

    Regular maintenance treatments help sustain optimal results and may extend the duration of effects over time.

    Belotero vs. Other Dermal Fillers

    Unique Advantages

    Superior Integration: Belotero’s polydensified matrix allows for better tissue integration compared to traditional cross-linked fillers.

    Versatility: Effective for both fine lines and deeper wrinkles, making it suitable for multiple treatment areas.

    Natural Feel: The smooth consistency feels natural under the skin, unlike some firmer fillers that may feel foreign.

    Reduced Risk of Tyndall Effect: The even distribution minimizes the bluish discoloration that can occur with other fillers in thin skin areas.

    Comparison with Other Fillers

    Vs. Juvederm: Belotero integrates more smoothly into tissue, while Juvederm provides more robust volume for deeper lines.

    Vs. Restylane: Belotero offers smoother integration, while Restylane may provide longer-lasting results in some areas.

    Vs. Radiesse: Belotero provides immediate HA-based results, while Radiesse stimulates collagen production over time.

    Safety Profile and Side Effects

    Belotero Balance has an excellent safety record, with FDA approval based on extensive clinical trials. Common side effects are typically mild and temporary:

    Expected Reactions

    • Minor swelling at injection sites (resolves within 24-48 hours)
    • Slight bruising (can be covered with makeup)
    • Temporary redness or tenderness
    • Mild firmness at treatment sites

    Rare Complications

    • Allergic reactions (extremely rare due to HA being naturally occurring)
    • Infection at injection sites
    • Vascular occlusion (prevented through proper injection technique)
    • Granuloma formation (very uncommon)

    Dr. Egan’s extensive experience and precise injection techniques minimize the risk of complications while maximizing treatment safety.

    Combining Belotero with Other Treatments

    Complementary Procedures

    Botox and Dysport: Combining neuromodulators with Belotero addresses both dynamic and static wrinkles for comprehensive facial rejuvenation.

    Laser Treatments: Skin resurfacing procedures can be combined with Belotero to address texture issues while restoring volume.

    Chemical Peels: Superficial peels enhance skin quality while Belotero addresses volume loss and wrinkles.

    Other Dermal Fillers: Different HA fillers can be strategically combined for optimal results in various facial areas.

    Treatment Sequencing

    Dr. Egan carefully plans combination treatments to optimize results and minimize recovery time. Typically, Belotero injections are performed before energy-based treatments to avoid interference with the filler integration process.

    Ideal Candidates for Belotero Balance

    Suitable Patients

    • Adults seeking natural-looking facial enhancement
    • Individuals with fine to moderate facial lines and wrinkles
    • Patients desiring minimal downtime procedures
    • Those with realistic expectations about filler results
    • Individuals in good overall health

    Special Considerations

    • First-time filler patients often benefit from Belotero’s gentle integration
    • Patients with thin skin appreciate the smooth, natural feel
    • Those seeking subtle enhancement without dramatic changes
    • Individuals wanting to address multiple fine lines simultaneously

    Maintaining Your Belotero Results

    Optimization Strategies

    Sun Protection: Daily SPF use prevents premature breakdown of hyaluronic acid and maintains skin health.

    Hydration: Adequate water intake supports the filler’s moisture-binding properties.

    Gentle Skincare: Quality moisturizers and serums enhance overall skin condition.

    Healthy Lifestyle: Proper nutrition, adequate sleep, and stress management support optimal healing and longevity.

    Follow-Up Treatments: Regular maintenance appointments ensure consistent results and may extend treatment intervals over time.

    Professional Skincare Integration

    Dr. Egan often recommends medical-grade skincare products to complement Belotero treatments, enhancing both immediate results and long-term skin health.

    Why Choose Dr. Egan for Belotero in Manhattan Beach

    Dr. Kristin Egan’s dual board certification in Otolaryngology and Facial Plastic Surgery provides patients with unparalleled expertise in facial anatomy and aesthetic enhancement. Her practice serves patients throughout the Beach Cities, including Redondo Beach, Hermosa Beach, and Palos Verdes, as well as those traveling from Hawaii and beyond.

    Advanced Training and Experience

    • Extensive fellowship training in facial plastic surgery
    • Years of experience with dermal filler techniques
    • Artistic eye for natural-looking enhancement
    • Commitment to patient safety and satisfaction

    State-of-the-Art Facility

    Located in Manhattan Beach with cosmetic services in Torrance, Dr. Egan’s practice features:

    • Modern treatment rooms designed for comfort
    • Advanced injection techniques and equipment
    • Comprehensive post-treatment support
    • Convenient scheduling and follow-up care

    Frequently Asked Questions

    How long does Belotero last?
    Results typically last 6-9 months, with some patients experiencing benefits for up to a year depending on individual factors.

    Is Belotero painful?
    Most patients experience minimal discomfort. Topical numbing cream and ice can be used to enhance comfort during treatment.

    Can I exercise after Belotero injections?
    Light activity is acceptable immediately after treatment, but intense exercise should be avoided for 24 hours to minimize swelling.

    When will I see results?
    Improvement is visible immediately, with final results apparent once any minor swelling resolves within 1-2 days.

    Can Belotero be reversed?
    Yes, hyaluronidase enzyme can dissolve Belotero if adjustment or removal is desired.

    Schedule Your Belotero Consultation

    Transform your appearance with advanced dermal filler technology from a board-certified facial plastic surgeon. Dr. Egan’s expertise ensures safe, effective Belotero treatments tailored to your unique aesthetic goals.

    Discover how Belotero Balance can help you achieve natural-looking facial enhancement with minimal downtime. Schedule your consultation today and take the first step toward refreshed, confident-looking skin.

  • Facial Rejuvenation Surgery

    Face Lift surgery or rhytidectomy is a surgical procedure designed to improve visible signs of again in the face and neck.  Many different variations on this procedure ranging from shorter procedures, the mini face lift, which do not require general anesthesia and enable a quicker recovery and return to work and longer surgeries which require general anesthesia and have a longer recovery time.

    Face Lift surgery is designed to improve the lower face and neck and is often combined with other procedures designed to improve signs of aging in other areas of the face such as eyelid surgery, brow lift surgery and chin surgery.

    A facelift is also known as a neck lift, either name is appropriate, as it addresses the lower face and neck.  Other terms often used are liquid facelift.  A liquid facelift refers to the use of fillers to replace lost volume in the mid face or cheeks and temples which by filling the skin back out will help to elevate the droopy skin around the jowls and jawline.  A liquid facelift does not address the neck.

    Threadlifts can also be used to address the midface but are not as long lasting or permanent as surgery or laser procedures and run the risk of looking asymmetric due to the difficulty of having the tissue stick on the barbs of the threads.  

    For those patients wanting a non surgical alternative to facelift with minimal downtime and no general anesthesia, Laser facelift is the perfect choice.  It addresses the lower face and neck in a permanent one time manner via a laser that is introduced beneath the skin to tighten the deeper muscle layer or SMAS and the overlying skin.  In my review of the research studies and personal experience, the Lazerlift or laser facelift makes a more substantial change in appearance than Ulthera or Thermage which are deliver systems that much travel through the skin itself.

  • Restylane® for Fine Lines and Wrinkles

    Restylane® for Fine Lines and Wrinkles

    Restylane® is the world’s most used, most studied dermal filler, and has been used in over 70 countries and in more than 1.4 million treatments in the U.S. Restylane® – and the newer addition to the Restylane® family of products – Perlane® are injected in much the same fashion as Collagen but do not require a skin test, as no allergic reactions are expected. Results are immediate and natural, and ‘downtime’ is usually only a few hours.

    Restylane® and Perlane® are comprised of Hyaluronic Acid, an injectable agent well suited to correct wrinkles, enhance lips or otherwise augment soft tissue. Hyaluronic Acid may be derived from animal sources (rooster comb) or, as in the case of Restylane® and Perlane®, may be laboratory created. Perlane® is primarily the same product as Restylane®, but Perlane® filler contains a larger concentration of hyaluronic acid. Because of this higher concentration of hyaluronic acid, Perlane® is usually used for larger folds, while Restylane® is better suited for smaller wrinkles or to maintain the results of a previous Perlane® injection.

    Common uses for Restylane® and Perlane® include:

    • Wrinkle correction
    • Diminishing worry lines, smile lines, crow’s feet, marionette lines at corners of the mouth, and smoker’s lines
    • Lip enhancement
    • Reducing the severity of nasolabial folds
    • Chin augmentation
    • Filling cheek depressions
    • Redefining lip border
    • Softening acne scars

    Other, less common, uses for Restylane® and Perlane® include:

    • Filling hollows under the eyes
    • Creating a temporary eyebrow lift
    • Correcting facial depressions caused by fat loss
    • Softening the appearance of jowls

  • Eyelid Rejuvenation Surgery

    Eyelid surgery is also known as blepharoplasty and involves removing and/or redistributing skin and fat in both the upper and lower eyelids.  Eyelid surgery improves the appearance of the upper eyelids, lower eyelids, or both, and gives a rejuvenated appearance to the upper face.

    Eyelid surgery is performed for both functional and aesthetic indications.  Many patients have areas of their visions blocked by the excess skin and fat of the upper eyelid.  Also, the lower eyelid can relax with age and fall away from the eyeball causing dryness and irritation.

    Commonly, eyelid surgery is combined with brow lift surgery in order to restore a more youthful appearance or to improve vision.  Patients can commonly go home the same day as the procedure and will be able to return to work within a week with minimal bruising and swelling.

    Eyelid surgery is frequently performed in both men and women because signs of aging around the eyes are often the first to be noticed by others as our eyes are “the window to our souls.”

    You can also watch an animation on Dr. Egan’s Academy website, choose blepharoplasty.

    Call today for a consultation with Dr. Kristin Egan to discuss how eyelid surgery can benefit you.

  • Surgical Rejuvenation of the Neck

    Neck surgery is also known as a neck lift, facelift, platysmaplasty, or cervicoplasty.  Neck surgery helps to restore a tight, youthful appearance to skin under the chin and neck area which has become saggy.  This procedure is often known as face lift surgery.

    If you have jowls or fatty deposits at the jaw line, loose hanging skin, or if the sheet of muscles under the skin of your throat form bands in your neck, neck surgery may be able to improve the appearance of your neck.  Neck or submental liposuction is frequently used during surgery to sculpt the area along the jawline.

    The appearance of loose skin and fat in the midline of the neck is a common complaint among males and is known as a “turkey gobbler.”  Neck surgery can eliminate this excess skin and fat with carefully hidden incisions in a quick procedure that can be done as an outpatient.

    This illustration shows that the incisions are well hidden around natural skin creases surrounding the ears. The direction that the skin is lifted is shown by the red arrows.

    For those patients wanting a non surgical alternative to neck surgery with minimal downtime and no general anesthesia, Laser facelift is the perfect choice and can be done in the office with the possibility of submental liposuction.

  • Cosmetic Ear Surgery

    Ear surgery can involve many different procedures.  One type is referred to as otoplasty and involves setting back the ears and reducing how far the ears project off the head.  This is commonly performed on children before they enter kindergarten and are subjected to peer ridicule.

    Patients are able to go home the same day as the procedure and will have to wear a head dressing for a week.

    Another common procedure is surgery on the ear lobe.  This can be to repair large holes in the ear lobe from earrings.  It can also be to reduce the size of an excessively large ear lobe.  Both of these procedures can be performed in the office with minimal recovery time and the ability to return to work within a few days.

    Call for a consultation to discuss Ear Surgery with Dr. Kristin Egan today.

  • Cheek Enhancement Surgery

    Cheek surgery is also known as cheek augmentation surgery or cheek implant surgery.  Cheek implants add fullness and definition to the cheeks restoring a more youthful profile by increasing the projection of the cheekbones.  Elevating the cheekbones gives the face a new sense of symmetry as well as elevated all the other elements of the face leading to a more youthful appearance.

    Cheek surgery is done through incisions in the mouth and patients can often go home the same day as the procedure with some swelling.  Most patients are able to return to work within a week.

    Injectable fillers such as Sculptra and Radiesse can also be used to elevate the cheekbones without surgery.

    Call today for a consultation with Dr. Kristin Egan to discuss how cheek surgery can lead to a more youthful appearance.

  • Cosmetic Chin Surgery

    Chin surgery is also known as chin augmentation, mentoplasty and genioplasty.  Chin surgery is a procedure to reshape the chin either by enhancement with a chin implant or reduction surgery on the bone.  The chin can also be moved via cuts in the bone to slide it forward.  If you are bothered by a small chiin, weak jaw or lack of facial contour, chin surgery may benefit you.

    It is common for Dr. Kristin Egan to discuss chin surgery during a consultation for nose surgery as improving the appearance of the chin can often change the appearance of the nose in the overall facial appearance.

    Patients can often go home the same day as the procedure and return to work within a week.  Chin surgery involves incisions under the chin or in the mouth which may be sore for up to a week.

    Call for a consultation with Dr. Kristin Egan to discuss how you can benefit from chin surgery.

  • Lip Enhancement Surgery

    Our lips are often a focus of our appearance as we use them to speak, to eat, and to kiss.  With time, lips can lose volume and appear thinner and can develop lines around them due to the action of our lip muscles.  Many surgical procedures have been designed to increase the volume of the lip while maintaining a natural look.  These procedures are often more permanent but have a longer recovery time.  Some surgical procedures are known as a lip lift or involve placing material such as Alloderm in the lips to increase volume.

    Lip enhancement without surgery has become very popular because you are able to return to work the same day with minimal swelling and pain.  Lip enlargement can be achieved using lip enhancement injections such as Juvederm®, Belotero and Restylane®.

    The use of Botox in the upper lip can help to increase the height of the upper lip by relaxing the muscles pushing it downward and can also serve to soften the wrinkles around the upper lip.