By Pat Lawrence
Dr. Gregory Krauss |
Dr. Gregory Krause has a special interest in people –“from
the clavicle up!” Board certified in Otolaryngology and Head
and Neck Surgery, Dr. Krause opened his Parkersburg office two years
ago. Most of his new practice has been dedicated to addressing medical
problems like head and neck cancer surgery, sinus surgery and facial
repair for birth defects and accidental injuries. “I have just
recently started advertising the cosmetic side of the practice. One
of the reasons for choosing an ear, nose and throat specialty is the
happy outcomes. The cosmetic side is like that, too. Whether it is
a small problem or a major problem, there is something we can do to
improve it.”
He is pleased with the success of Botox injections. “They are
especially effective for frown lines between eyebrows. They also help
forehead lines and wrinkles and crows feet around the eyes. Those
lines are controlled by muscles. Very small doses of the Botox protein
cause the muscle to relax, so the wrinkle or frown line, smoothes
out. It’s a safe procedure. There is a small sting, but it isn’t
painful. There is no scarring or numbness and it lasts several months.
The results last longer as the injections continue. There are almost
no side affects. Very occasionally, there is a slight, temporary drooping
in the eyelid or a mild headache, but most people don’t notice
anything. It takes three or four days before there is a noticeable
change and 10-14 days before the change is complete.” The Botox
injections, done in the doctors office, cost $350 for the targeted
area, whether that is around the eyes or just the forehead.
Collagen injections are also an option. “We use collagen for
lips or for the skin around the lips, to plump up the skin and reduce
wrinkles around the mouth.”
To enhance skin appearance, Dr. Krause may recommend “a series
of six treatments, once every 10-14 days, alternating microdermabrasion
and glycolic peel.” A nurse performs the microdermabrasion,
using a pencil like wand that sprays a tiny, controlled stream of
microscopic crystals over the skin surface. Dr. Krause applies the
glycolic peel himself, because of its time sensitive nature. “A
single microdermabrasion is $125, the combination series is $500.”
At present, Dr. Krause doesn’t offer laser skin resurfacing.
“I’m not comfortable with the potential for changing skin
pigmentation associated with the procedure. There is a new cool touch
laser procedure that may be the solution, but it’s not fully
tested or available locally.”
Dr. Krause is familiar with the complaints women have with their neck.
Patting under his chin, he says, “Sometimes, surgery is the
only solution. We can fix these ‘neck bars’ for about
$1500. Or, perform a full neck lift, which costs between $3000-$5000.”
He is glad to provide prescription strength skin products, cleaners,
moisturizers, fade creams and sun blocks. “The only ingredients
that have been proven medically effective against the signs of aging
are alpha hydroxy acids. We offer products that contain percentages
ranging from 10% to 70%. Regular use can make a significant difference
in skin’s appearance. Some women may use just the cleanser or
moisturizer, or they may use both.” He says it is essential
to use products with UV protection, to protect skin from the damaging
effects of the sun.
Originally from Miami, Dr. Krause attended medical school at Washington
University in St Louis. He completed his surgical training at the
University of Colorado and keeps up with the latest in cosmetic treatments
in New York, where he met his new bride. At 36, he says he is comfortable
with the Parkersburg pace. “I was looking for a smaller community.
This is not as hectic as a big city, but there is enough to keep busy,
personally and professionally. No matter where they live, people want
to look and feel their best. That’s where I can make a difference!”
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