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What Is BBL Therapy?

BBL uses advanced intense pulsed light (IPL) technology, delivering light energy that harmlessly penetrates the skin’s surface and stimulates the body’s natural healing process in the deeper layers of skin. Unlike laser skin treatments that target treatment areas with precision, broadband light treats a wider area of skin. Often called a photofacial, the FDA-cleared technology targets complexion issues, such as sun spots, freckles, and broken blood vessels.

The light energy gently heats the skin’s upper layers, prompting your body’s repair processes: damaged skin cells fade, while collagen production increases. The result is smoother skin tone, fewer visible imperfections, and a more radiant look. It can treat areas most likely to be affected by sun exposure, such as the face, neck, arms, and chest. 

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Benefits of BBL Therapy

  • Improved Skin Tone & Clarity: Reduction of freckles, sun spots, and hyperpigmentation, leaving a more uniform complexion
  • Reduced Redness & Vascular Lesions: Helps with broken capillaries, rosacea, and flushing by targeting vascular structures
  • Stimulation of Collagen & Youthful Texture: Encourages renewal of skin architecture for smoother, tighter skin
  • Minimal Downtime & Comfort: Many patients return to normal activities right away; treatments are well tolerated
  • Long-Term Skin Resilience: With regular maintenance, BBL can slow visible signs of aging and sun damage

For patients seeking additional support for skin recovery and quality, BBL therapy can be paired with salmon DNA skin treatment to reinforce the skin barrier, support regeneration, and enhance hydration after light-based procedures. 

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Timeless Beauty, Flexible Payments

You can pursue your cosmetic goals today and pay later. Our practice proudly partners with Allē, CareCredit®, Alphaeon® Credit, and Cherry, which offer flexible payment options that fit your budget. Some plans include interest rates starting as low as 0%. Let us help you look your best today while managing payments at your own pace.

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Are You a Good Candidate for BBL HERO Treatments?

Most healthy adults who want to improve tone, reduce pigmentation, or calm redness can benefit from BBL treatments. Ideal candidates:

  • Show signs of sun damage, freckles, or age spots
  • Experience redness, flushing, or broken vessels
  • Want to improve skin tone and texture without surgery
  • Have realistic expectations and good overall skin health

Patients with recent sunburn, active skin infections, or very dark skin types (depending on device settings) may not be ideal candidates, but we can evaluate on a case-by-case basis.

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What To Expect at Your Consultation

Before each session, we evaluate your skin’s tone, sun history, and unique concerns to determine the optimal BBL treatment settings. Your consultation includes:

Comprehensive Health Evaluation

During your consultation with Dr. Lopes or one of our other providers, expect a thorough review of your medical history and current health status. This will include any pre-existing conditions, medications you’re currently taking, and any past surgical procedures. It’s crucial to provide complete and accurate information to ensure your safety and the success of the surgery.

Discussion of Goals and Expectations

Our BBL providers take the time to understand your cosmetic goals and expectations. They give you a realistic picture of what the procedure can achieve and ensure your goals align with these possibilities. This discussion helps you develop a shared vision for the results of the procedure.

Physical Examination and Procedure Explanation

Your provider will perform a physical examination, which is crucial in planning the procedure. They discuss the procedure in detail, explaining the steps involved, the techniques used, and what you can expect during the recovery process. This information helps you feel informed and confident about the process.

Woman lying on the beach with a soft smile, highlighting youthful, radiant skin.

What Happens During the Treatment?

Before treatment, a cooling gel is applied to the skin to protect its surface and enhance comfort. During the procedure, patients often notice a gentle, warm snap as pulses of light are delivered across the targeted area. Afterward, it’s normal to experience mild redness or warmth for a day or two, and we typically recommend using sunscreen and gentle skincare products to support recovery.

In the days that follow, some pixelation or temporary darkening of spots may occur, which soon fades to reveal clearer, healthier-looking skin. Improvements usually develop gradually over the next several weeks, with optimal results becoming most noticeable around 2 to 3 months. For optimal outcomes, most patients undergo a series of 2 to 4 treatments, spaced approximately 2 to 4 weeks apart.

Why Choose Cosmetic Surgery Center?

Dr. JoAnne Lopes brings over 25 years of aesthetic experience to every procedure. As one of Virginia Beach's first female plastic surgeons, she combines technical skill with a compassionate touch, making sure patients feel supported throughout their journey. Her team is trained in the latest technology and maintains rigorous safety standards. When you choose our clinic, whether from Virginia Beach, Chesapeake, Norfolk, Suffolk, or elsewhere, you receive personalized care and results backed by expertise.

A Reputation Built on Results

I just had Injections this morning. The young lady had a wonderful job and she is so sweet the entire...
Always great care and concern for comfort. Look better and feel better. Dr Lopes and staff are great...
Dr Lopes and staff answered all my questions, and explained what to expect before and after procedure....
Great place! Staff is wonderful and make you feel right at home!

Ready for a Refreshed Appearance? 

A BBL HERO treatment may be your perfect match if you’re considering a nonsurgical approach to facial rejuvenation. Use the online form to request a consultation at our Virginia Beach office to discuss your goals and create a customized plan with Dr. Lopes and her expert team. 

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