Simply Rejuvenated: Facial Acupuncture

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January 26, 2010 by Ashkan | Comments (0)

I unexpectedly announced to friends over lunch, “I’m getting a lift! A face lift!” Granted, I am still in my twenties, but I have spent my fair share of time in the sun and a few late nights out. Actually, the cosmetic procedure I planned known as facial accpuncture is more like rejuvenation. Plus, it resonates with more harmony and sounds less clinical than “face lift.”

Facial acupuncture, or cosmetic acupuncture, is the holistic option to a surgical face lift. The procedure remedies the signs of aging by applying local treatment to the face. Facial acupuncture enhances muscle tone and promotes muscular contraction targeted at the face and neck. Moreover, complexions can be invigorated with vitality. Facial acupuncture can eliminate as many as eight to ten years from the face, increase collagen production, and brighten the ocular area (eyes). Tenuous lines are also reduced. The effects can be “long lasting depending on maintenance,” according to Dr. Aaron Annis of Sattva Health Gallery in Portland, Oregon.

The procedure requires the insertion of 30-40 hair-thin needles into parts of the face, neck, ears, hands, and legs along channels or meridians of energy called Qi (pronounced chee). Ancient Chinese healing principles assert “where Qi goes, blood flows.” The concept is uncomplicated; with acupuncture, blood flow increases thus muscles are stimulated and collagen and elastin are produced. The standard course of treatment is twelve 90 minute sessions twice a week. The average cost is $1,500 for a full course of treatment.

The day arrived for my appointment at Sattva Health Gallery and as I lay on the table, I kept popping up asking in sundry ways the most considerable question, “Is this going to hurt?” The pain level is practically non-existent. There is minor tenderness when needles are inserted into the brow and lip region. Once all the needles were placed, relaxation emanates and your face feels electric! Dr. Annis inquires at various pauses “Do you feel your face buzzing?”

The efficacy of facial acupuncture was published in 1996 in the International Journal of Acupuncture which studied 300 cases and 90% had noticeable effects even after one session. The American Medical Association takes no stated position on facial acupuncture. Dr. Annis believes that facial rejuvenation works “from the inside out.” The most significant advantage of facial acupuncture is that it is non-toxic and non-surgical. Other benefits include the economical cost, no swelling or any recovery time. The practice is not recommended for patients with hypertension, migraines, diabetes, cancer, pregnancy, hepatitis, HIV+ status, hemophilia or any pituitary disorder.

And the next time I see my friends, my face can either be paralyzed by toxic Botox or covered in bruises and scars, or simply rejuvenated by facial acupuncture.

Dr Aaron Annis
Sattva Health Gallery
1720 NW Lovejoy Box 220
Portland, OR 97209
503.939.6160

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