Ask Dr. Narins

If you have questions about cosmetic procedures and surgery, you’re in the right place. We have an expert in our midst. Dr. Rhoda Narins is a 40-year resident of Scarsdale and a pioneer in the field of cosmetic surgery. She grew up here in Westchester, graduated from Barnard College, Columbia University and New York University School of Medicine. She is a full clinical professor of dermatology at NYU and even served as president of the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery. She is a recognized leader in the field; involved in research and serving as an investigator in many of the filler, toxin and liposuction FDA clinical trials.

In an effort to learn more about her and what she offers, we interviewed Dr. Narins and here is what she said:

How long have you lived in Scarsdale and what do you like about living here?I grew up in the area and lived here for over 40 years. It is a wonderful and beautiful community with a great school system. In fact my daughter lives here with her children and many of her friends have returned to town.

How has the Village changed – if it all, during your time here? Many stores have come and gone and parking has gotten harder. I really miss Vaccaros shoe repair shop.

How many years have you been practicing in Westchester? 35+ years

Which cosmetic procedures do you do most frequently? We are expert in most dermatologic surgical and cosmetic procedures. We do fillers, Botox and other toxins, safe liposuction of all areas with local anesthesia, lasers, peels, spider and varicose vein therapy. We treat many skin cancers and benign lesions. We also do hair transplants and permanent tattooing for lips and eyebrows.

What brings patients to your office for cosmetic procedures, i.e. what do they wish to correct/improve? Most patients just want to look better but natural. Specifically, they want to eliminate lip lines, bunny lines, frown lines, saddlebags and crow’s feet. They come in before big events or big birthdays … and some want to look healthier and better after life changes such as a divorce or a job loss.

What are some common fears and misperceptions among patients about cosmetic procedures?

• Many are afraid of toxins – but Botox is the most common cosmetic procedure in the U.S. In fact, we have used it cosmetically in our office for more than 20 years with wonderful results and it has been used for more than 30 years for non-cosmetic reasons.
• Some are afraid that they will have no movement in their faces or look blown up or overdone. I explain that we often notice those that are overdone. However, when done correctly, cosmetic procedures look natural and healthy. I always leave some movement and try to make someone look like themselves, but better.
• Others fear pain or bruising: Botox takes less than five minutes to administer, and we use a topical anesthetic first, so that people don’t’ feel anything. In addition, we use blunt tipped needles for fillers to ensure minimal to no bruising.
• I have done the FDA studies on many of the toxins so I am very experienced with them.

What are some of the newer procedures/options on the horizon that our readers may not be familiar with? Once patients see the affect of Botox on the upper face, they may want to try fillers for the bottom of the face. New fillers such as Beletero have been approved and there are more on the horizon such as Emervel. Aquamid and Voluma are in clinical trials.

Can newcomers come in for a consult? Absolutely – we’ll take a look and tell you if you are a candidate for a procedure.

What is the price range for procedures and are any covered by health insurance? None of these cosmetic procedures are covered by insurance so we work hard to give the patient the most improvement for the amount they can afford. Sometimes the cost of the consult can be added into a procedure.

When are you in your Westchester office and how can our readers make an appointment? I am in the Westchester Office at 222 Westchester Avenue in White Plains on Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 8:30 AM on. Patients can call 914-684-1000 or 212-288-9910 to make an appointment. We also have a city office on Fifth Avenue at 80th St.

Also, you can learn more about our procedures by looking at our website,  www.narins.com