Houston Dermatologists Fight Wrinkles With Patient's Own Collagen

HOUSTON, TX--(Marketwire - Oct 4, 2012) - Drs. Paul Friedman and Jennifer Peterson, physicians of Houston dermatology, have recently adopted an innovative technology to combat the appearance of wrinkles. LAVIV™ (azficel-T) is an alternative to the traditional injectables such as BOTOX® Cosmetic and dermal fillers. With the product branded as "personalized cell therapy," Dr. Friedman and Dr. Peterson, dermatologists dedicated to state-of-the-art advancements in their field, are embracing this new technique that caters to the individual.

What sets LAVIV™ apart from its alternatives is the make-up of the injectable compound itself. Each vial of LAVIV™ is created from the patient's own cells, cultivating collagen-producing fibroblast cells to be injected into smile lines. The treatment is specifically designed to diminish the appearance of nasolabial folds (the harsh lines and creases between the nose and mouth). The result is a rejuvenated, refreshed, and more youthful appearance. The patient will experience an increase in the amount of collagen and elastin under the skin with long lasting results.

The Houston dermatologists believe that one major advantage of choosing LAVIV™ is that the injected compound contains 98% of the patient's own cells. This process for wrinkle reduction around the mouth allows for results that look completely natural. "We strive to maintain a constant connection with the latest advancements in the dermatologic field," says Dr. Friedman. "LaViv™ is an important addition to our practice because it represents the future in fighting the appearance of wrinkles."

The process for obtaining the individualized LAVIV™ results is relatively simple. Sample cells are taken from a small area behind the ear and then sent to a laboratory to be cultivated. Once the cells containing the collagen-producing fibroblast have been multiplied, the patient returns to the dermatologist for the injection. Dr. Friedman says growing new skin cells from the patient's initial sample takes about 90 days to complete. However, the Houston dermatologist adds that once there are enough cells for treatment, there will be no interruption in subsequent LAVIV™ sessions. At the Dermatology & Laser Surgery Center, Dr. Friedman recommends administering LAVIV™ during a series of three treatment sessions over a period of several months.

About Paul Friedman, MD

After earning his medical degree from the University of Tennessee Health Science Center, College of Medicine, Dr. Paul Friedman completed his dermatology residency at the New York School of Medicine. He went on to complete a one-year fellowship in Mohs micrographic surgery and dermatologic laser surgery at the Laser & Skin Surgery Center of New York. He twice received the Husik Prize for his dermatologic surgery research, and currently serves as a clinical assistant professor at the University of Texas Medical School, Department of Dermatology. An author and co-author of multiple medical book chapters and articles, he has been invited to speak to many prestigious groups including the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery, the American Academy of Dermatology, and the American Society for Laser Medicine and Surgery among others. Dr. Friedman has been innovative in the development of laser systems and techniques used in dermatology worldwide. He is board-certified by the American Board of Dermatology.

About Jennifer Peterson, MD

A graduate of Texas Tech University School of Medicine, Dr. Jennifer Peterson is an experienced dermatologist dedicated to areas such as laser procedures, leg vein treatment, and both surgical and non-surgical techniques. She completed a three-year residency in dermatology at Texas Tech University School of Medicine, serving as chief resident in her final year. Dr. Peterson belongs to numerous medical organizations including the American Academy of Dermatology, the American Society of Cosmetic Dermatology and Aesthetic Surgery, and the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery among others. She has twice received the Kenneth Nelner, M.D. Resident Researcher of the Year Award, and continues to stay active in the medical community. Dr. Peterson is board-certified by the American Board of Dermatology.

To contact the Dermatology & Laser Surgery Center, visit their website at dermlasersurgery.com or call 713-900-3900 (Houston Office) or 917-745-5029 (New York Office). The center's Houston Office is located at Memorial Hermann Medical Plaza, 6400 Fannin, Suite 2720 Houston, TX 77030. The center's New York City Office is located at 317 E. 34th St., New York City NY 10016. The center's Facebook page can be found at facebook.com/paulmfriedmanmd.