A: Facial rejuvenation acupuncture has recently become a popular method for women and men who want to have a more youthful appearing face and skin but don’t want the risk (or cost) of plastic surgery or Botox injections.  It is a natural technique, based on the principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine, or TCM.  In this method, very fine acupuncture needles are inserted into points on the face and other areas of the body to improve the flow of Qi, or energy, to the face, head and neck.  

The results, which occur over several treatments, include healthier looking skin, improved skin tone, a youthful glow and the shallowing of some age lines and wrinkles.

Q: How does it differ from a facelift or botox?

A: Although facial rejuvenation acupuncture has been called the “acupuncture facelift,” the results are not as dramatic or long-lasting as a surgical facelift.  Facial acupuncture does not involve actual surgery or alteration of the skin and underlying structures of the face.  Facial acupuncture can, however, improve skin tone and give a healthy glow to your skin. 
With Botox injections, a patient has the botulinum toxin inserted directly into muscles of the face.  The toxin temporarily paralyzes the facial muscles, which can then give the face a less wrinkled appearance.
 

Q: Is facial rejuvenation acupuncture safe, and does it hurt?

A: Acupuncture in general is a very safe healing modality.  Facial acupuncture in particular is also very safe. The needles that are used are extremely thin, sterilized stainless steel needles that are discarded after a single use.  Patients may feel a small pinch or skin prick when a needle is inserted, sometimes followed by an achy sensation that usually resolves after a few seconds.  The main adverse effects, which tend to be rare, include bleeding (a drop or two of blood might appear after a needle is withdrawn, but this is considered normal).  Other adverse effects may include infection, pain, and nerve damage.  In the hands of an experienced acupuncturist, side effects are extremely rare.
How long is a course of treatment, and what effects can I expect to see?

A typical course consists of 12 treatments, and patients may want to come in for maintenance treatments every few months after the initial course of treatment.  Many patients notice a positive change after the first treatment, and a youthful glow after two or three treatments.  Age lines and wrinkles may start to fade after five or six treatments.  Of course, results will vary from person to person.Dr. Seth Torregiani practices osteopathic manipulative medicine, acupuncture and integrative medicine in Newark, DE.

For more information, call (302) 266-9010 or www.dr-seth.com.