In this interview, we sit down with Jillian Sarcona, a Long Island based expert in cosmetic injections, affectionately known as the “Lip Queen,” to discuss the ins and outs of popular treatments like Botox and dermal fillers. From patient care to local favorites across Long Island, she shares her professional wisdom and personal recommendations.
Can you explain the different cosmetic injection procedures you offer and what each one is best suited for?
Dermal fillers such as Restylane, Rha, Versa and Belotero are used to add volume and fullness to the cheeks, lips, and under-eyes, smooth fine lines around the mouth, and enhance facial contours such as the jawline, chin, and nose. Neurotoxins such as Botox, Jeuveau and Xeomin are primarily used to reduce dynamic wrinkles and fine lines by temporarily relaxing the muscles that cause them, particularly around the eyes, forehead, and between the eyebrows.
Additionally, they can be used for other various treatments, including a lip flip to enhance the upper lip’s appearance, jawline and masseter muscle for slimming and contouring the jawline, reducing neck bands, treating excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis), managing migraine headaches, softening the trapezius muscle for an elongated neck, reducing a gummy smile, slimming the nose, and much more. These treatments provide non-surgical solution for smoothing the skin and achieving a more youthful, refreshed appearance.
What does a typical day look like for you when seeing clients?
I see approximately 15-25 clients per day, 3-4 days per week. 50% filler, 50% neurotoxin.
How long does a typical Botox treatment session take, and is there any preparation required beforehand?
To minimize the likelihood of bruising, avoid Advil, aspirin, and alcohol for 24 hours prior to treatment. The treatment itself takes just five minutes, though consultation times may vary. My clients appreciate the efficiency of being “in and out.” Once we have established your goals during the initial consultation, subsequent treatments are quick and straightforward.
Immediately after the treatment, there may be slight swelling at the injection sites, but this typically subsides within 5-10 minutes. This makes it an ideal “lunch break” service, as there are no visible signs of the treatment afterward.
Can you describe the aftercare required following a Botox injection, and are there any activities patients should avoid?
Stay upright for 4 hours after treatment. No exercise for 24 hours. No sauna’s or steam rooms for 2 days. Do not massage the areas treatment for 24 hours.
Where are some of your favorite places to visit across Long Island and why?
I love staying at the Rams Head Inn on Shelter Island, walking the Planting Fields Arboretum in Brookville, having a pool day at Nassau Country Club, and eating some wood fired oven pizza at Piñons in Locust Valley.
How about out east during the summer months? What are your favorite things to see and do in the Hamptons and North Fork?
I love a Gurney’s beach day following by a Gurney’s fire pit at night. Also a Surf Lodge Sunday with a good DJ. My favorite hotel is Solé East Resort in Montauk. My favorite restaurant is The Crows Nest, also located in Montauk, for the beach bar and views. My daughter is 2 and can finally roll down the hill which makes for some fun family time.
How do you handle patients who have specific concerns or fears about the Botox procedure?
I thoroughly explain the procedure to ensure my patients fully understand it, trust me, and feel confident they are in good hands. Many patients who initially feel nervous often express how pleased they are after undergoing the procedure, remarking on its painless nature. They frequently wish they had started sooner and not delayed their first treatment. I assure them that nervousness is normal and common, which helps alleviate some of their anxiety and embarrassment. The most rewarding moments are when the procedure is over, and they exclaim, “Wow, it’s done?” followed by us both laughing.
Which treatments are your favorite and why?
Tough question! I honestly love them all. Wrinkle reducers are great because it’s a quick treatment and clients love that! Filler takes a bit longer but the results are instant which is always satisfying. If I had to choose I’d say lip filler. Partly because I love being known as the “Lip Queen.”