General Frequently Asked Questions

  • Invoque Aesthetics is a premier medspa in Sterling, VA offering comprehensive nonsurgical aesthetic treatments including neurotoxins (Botox, Dysport, Xeomin), dermal fillers, Radiesse, Sculptra, chemical peels, Morpheus8 microneedling, medical weight loss programs, and professional skincare. All treatments are performed by Emily Taylor, MSN, FNP-BC, an experienced nurse practitioner with nearly 7 years in aesthetic medicine.

  • All treatments at Invoque Aesthetics are performed by Emily Taylor, MSN, FNP-BC, an autonomous practice Nurse Practitioner with over 15 years of medical experience. Emily has trained alongside leading cosmetic surgeons in Northern Virginia and specializes in natural, balanced results through comprehensive facial assessment and customized treatment planning.

  • Yes, Invoque Aesthetics is a medical aesthetic practice operated by a licensed Nurse Practitioner. All injectable treatments and medical procedures are performed under proper medical supervision with attention to safety protocols and best practices.

  • You can reach us anytime via our contact page or email. We aim to respond quickly—usually within one business day.

  • We are conveniently located at 21435 Epicerie Plaza Suite 100, Loft 8, Sterling, VA 20164, serving patients throughout Northern Virginia including Ashburn, Leesburg, Reston, and surrounding areas.

    • Wednesday: 9 AM - 4:30 PM

    • Thursday: 9 AM - 5 PM

    • Friday: 9 AM - 4 PM

    • Saturday: 10 AM - 2 PM

  • You can book your appointment online through our booking portal or contact us at (571) 946-2123. We recommend scheduling consultations in advance to ensure availability.

Neurotoxin Questions (Botox, Dysport, Xeomin)

  • Botox is a purified protein derived from botulinum toxin that temporarily relaxes facial muscles responsible for dynamic wrinkles. When injected by a qualified provider, it can reduce the appearance of forehead lines, crow's feet, and frown lines. Results typically appear within 3-7 days and can last 3-4 months.

  • While all three are neurotoxins that work similarly, they differ slightly in formulation, spread, and onset time. Botox is the most well-known, Dysport tends to spread more and may work slightly faster, and Xeomin is a "naked" neurotoxin without accessory proteins. Your provider will recommend the best option based on your treatment goals and anatomy.

  • Neurotoxin treatments typically last 3-4 months, though individual results vary based on metabolism, muscle strength, and lifestyle factors. Regular maintenance treatments can help prolong results and may even reduce the frequency needed over time.

  • Most patients report minimal discomfort during neurotoxin injections. The needles used are very fine, and treatments are quick. Some areas may be more sensitive than others, but no anesthesia is typically required. Ice or numbing cream can be used for sensitive patients.

  • Initial results typically appear within 3-5 days, with full effects visible at 10-14 days. This is why we recommend scheduling any treatments at least two weeks before important events.

  • Common treatment areas include forehead lines, frown lines (11s), crow's feet, bunny lines on the nose, lip flip, gummy smile correction, chin dimpling, jawline slimming (masseter), and neck bands. Your provider will assess which areas are appropriate for your goals.

  • While neurotoxins don't "prevent" wrinkles, regular treatments can help minimize their formation by reducing repetitive muscle movements that create lines. Many providers recommend starting treatments in your late 20s or early 30s as a preventative measure.

  • For the first 24 hours after treatment, avoid lying down for 4 hours, strenuous exercise, excessive heat (saunas, hot yoga), alcohol consumption, and rubbing the treated areas. These precautions help ensure optimal results and minimize the risk of product migration.

Dermal Filler Questions

  • Dermal fillers are injectable gel-like substances, typically made from hyaluronic acid, that add volume, smooth lines, and enhance facial contours. They can restore lost volume, enhance lips, improve under-eye hollows, and create more defined facial features.

  • Filler longevity varies by product and placement. Most hyaluronic acid fillers last 6-18 months depending on the area treated, the specific product used, and individual metabolism. Areas with more movement (like lips) typically break down filler faster than static areas (like cheeks).

  • Common treatment areas include lips, nasolabial folds (smile lines), marionette lines, cheeks, temples, under-eye hollows (tear troughs), jawline, chin, and hands. Each area requires specific techniques and product selection for optimal results.

  • When administered by a qualified, experienced provider like a nurse practitioner or physician, dermal fillers have an excellent safety profile. We use only FDA-approved products and follow strict safety protocols to minimize risks and ensure natural-looking results.

  • Botox relaxes muscles to reduce dynamic wrinkles caused by facial expressions, while dermal fillers add volume and fill in static lines or enhance facial features. Many patients benefit from both treatments as part of a comprehensive aesthetic plan.

  • Hyaluronic acid fillers can be dissolved with an enzyme called hyaluronidase if needed. This provides an added safety measure and peace of mind for patients concerned about results.

  • At Invoque Aesthetics, we specialize in natural, balanced results. The key is proper assessment, appropriate product selection, and conservative injection techniques. Our goal is to help you look like a refreshed version of yourself, not a different person.

Radiesse Questions

  • Radiesse is a unique dermal filler made of calcium hydroxylapatite microspheres suspended in a gel. It provides immediate volume correction while stimulating your body's natural collagen production for long-lasting results.

  • Unlike hyaluronic acid fillers, Radiesse is a biostimulator that works in two ways: providing immediate lifting and volume while also stimulating collagen production over time. It's particularly effective for deeper wrinkles, facial contouring, and hand rejuvenation.

  • Radiesse can last 12-18 months or longer due to its collagen-stimulating properties. The initial volume effect is immediate, while collagen production continues to improve results over the following months.

  • Radiesse is commonly used for cheek augmentation, nasolabial folds, marionette lines, pre-jowl area, jawline definition, chin augmentation, and hand rejuvenation. It's not typically used in the lips due to its thicker consistency.

Sculptra Questions

  • Sculptra is an injectable poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) biostimulator that gradually restores facial volume by stimulating your body's natural collagen production. Unlike traditional fillers that provide immediate results, Sculptra works over time to create subtle, natural-looking volume.

  • While traditional fillers provide immediate volume, Sculptra stimulates your body to produce its own collagen over several months. Results appear gradually and can last up to two years or more, making it ideal for patients seeking natural-looking facial rejuvenation.

  • Most patients require a series of 2-3 treatment sessions spaced 4-6 weeks apart to achieve optimal results. The number of vials and sessions depends on your individual aging concerns and desired outcomes.

  • Sculptra results appear gradually over 2-3 months as your body produces new collagen. This progressive improvement creates a natural transformation that others may notice without knowing you've had a procedure.

  • Sculptra results can last up to two years or more, making it one of the longest-lasting volumizing treatments available. Maintenance treatments can help sustain results long-term.

Chemical Peel Questions

  • Chemical peels are skin resurfacing treatments that use controlled exfoliation to remove dead skin cells and stimulate new cell growth. They can improve skin texture, tone, acne, sun damage, fine lines, and hyperpigmentation.

  • We offer various peel depths and formulations tailored to your skin type and concerns. Options include superficial peels for gentle exfoliation and deeper peels for more significant resurfacing. Your provider will recommend the best option during consultation.

  • Treatment frequency depends on the peel type and your skin goals. Light peels can be performed every 4-6 weeks, while deeper peels may be done quarterly or semi-annually. A customized treatment plan will be developed based on your needs.

  • Depending on the peel depth, you may experience mild redness, tightness, and flaking for several days. Deeper peels require more downtime. Proper aftercare including sun protection and moisturizing is essential for optimal results.

  • Yes, chemical peels can complement injectable treatments, Morpheus8, and skincare regimens as part of a comprehensive aesthetic plan. Your provider will recommend the best combination and timing for your goals.

Morpheus8 Questions

  • Morpheus8 is an FDA-approved fractional radiofrequency microneedling device that combines microneedling with radiofrequency energy to remodel and contour the face and body. It targets fine lines, wrinkles, acne scars, and skin laxity by stimulating collagen and elastin production deep within the skin.

  • Morpheus8 uses tiny needles to deliver radiofrequency energy deep into the skin's layers, creating controlled micro-injuries that trigger the body's natural healing response. This stimulates new collagen and elastin production, resulting in tighter, smoother, more youthful-looking skin.

  • Morpheus8 can treat the face, neck, décolletage, abdomen, arms, thighs, and other areas with skin laxity or texture concerns. It's particularly effective for the lower face, jowls, neck, and areas with acne scarring.

  • While tolerance varies, most patients experience mild to moderate discomfort during treatment. Topical numbing cream is applied beforehand to minimize discomfort. Many patients describe the sensation as tolerable with appropriate numbing.

  • Most patients achieve optimal results with 3-4 treatments spaced 4-6 weeks apart. Some may see improvement after just one session, while others with more significant concerns may benefit from additional treatments.

  • Initial improvements may be visible within a few days as swelling subsides, but the full collagen remodeling process takes 3-6 months. Results continue to improve over time as new collagen forms.

  • Results can last one year or longer with proper skincare maintenance. Since Morpheus8 stimulates your body's natural collagen production, results are long-lasting but not permanent. Annual maintenance treatments can help sustain results.

  • Most patients experience redness and mild swelling for 2-3 days, with some pinpoint bleeding or crusting. Most people return to normal activities within 24-48 hours, though complete healing takes about a week. Makeup can typically be worn after 24 hours.

  • Yes, Morpheus8 can be combined with injectables, peels, and skincare treatments as part of a comprehensive rejuvenation plan. Your provider will recommend optimal timing and combinations based on your goals.

Medical Weight Loss Questions

  • Invoque Aesthetics offers medical weight loss programs that may include medications to support appetite control and metabolism. A comprehensive consultation is required to determine if you're a candidate and which program is right for you.

  • Candidates typically include adults with a BMI above 27 with weight-related health conditions or a BMI above 30. A medical consultation is required to assess your health history, current medications, and weight loss goals.

  • Medical weight loss programs combine prescription medications with lifestyle modifications including nutrition guidance and exercise recommendations. The medications work by affecting appetite signals and metabolism to support weight management efforts.

  • FDA-approved weight loss medications have been extensively studied and shown to be safe for appropriate candidates when prescribed and monitored by qualified healthcare providers. As with any medication, there are potential side effects that will be discussed during consultation.

  • Weight loss results vary significantly based on individual factors including starting weight, adherence to the program, lifestyle modifications, and metabolism. Your provider will discuss realistic expectations during your consultation. No specific results can be guaranteed.

  • While not required to follow a specific diet, lifestyle modifications including balanced nutrition and regular physical activity will enhance your results. Your provider can offer guidance on healthy eating patterns to support your goals.