Apr
21

Which treatments can be combined with microneedling?

by Medical Spa Admin

If you’re looking for a simple, minimally invasive way to treat skin issues such as fine lines, hyperpigmentation, and scars, you may want to try microneedling. Microneedling is ideal because it is a versatile treatment that is suitable for all skin tones and skin types. It’s also possible to boost the effectiveness of the microneedling treatment by doing it alongside other cosmetic procedures. But which treatments can be combined with microneedling?

What is Microneedling?

Microneedling or collagen induction therapy is a minimally invasive skin rejuvenation treatment in which micro-fine needles are used to create tiny punctures in the skin. The micro-channels are made with a microneedling pen that is equipped with very tiny needles.

How microneedling works

The microneedling device is moved rapidly over the skin and repeatedly punctures the skin. The controlled injuries trigger the skin’s natural healing, and when the skin starts to repair itself, more collagen and elastin is produced. These essential skin proteins firm and plump the skin so it looks dewy and more youthful. Microneedling also treats a range of skin issues including wrinkles, acne scars, pigmentation, enlarged pores, and stretch marks.

Microneedling is an outpatient procedure that is performed using a topical anesthetic cream. The procedure is virtually painless and takes about 30 minutes to complete. It is the ideal solution for people looking to reduce signs of facial aging.

The number of microneedling sessions needed varies depending on the specific condition being treated, but 3-5 sessions at monthly intervals is normal.

What to expect

There may be some mild swelling and redness for a few hours after microneedling, but there is virtually no downtime. Once the redness subsides the complexion will be noticeably brighter and there will be a new plumpness to the skin.

Which treatments can be combined with microneedling?

Although microneedling is an excellent skin rejuvenation procedure it can be combined with other treatments such as platelet-rich-plasma (PRP) therapy or radiofrequency therapy to achieve even more dramatic skin rejuvenation results.

What is PRP therapy?

PRP therapy is a regenerative treatment that uses a concentrate of platelet rich plasma to promote tissue repair, and speed up healing. It has been used routinely in sports medicine for many years to treat injuries to the joints, tendons, and ligaments. Platelets contain healing growth factors that help repair the damage when an injury occurs.

PRP is now being used for cosmetic treatments especially for facial rejuvenation.

PRP Facial

The PRP facial is a non-invasive treatment that uses platelets to renew the skin and refresh the appearance. The platelets are derived from the patient’s own blood. Blood is drawn from the patient’s arm and is then processed in a centrifuge to separate the platelets. The platelets are activated and then injected in the targeted areas of the face.

Microneedling with PRP

When combined with PRP the microneedling procedure is performed first. The PRP is then introduced into the skin through the micro-channels created during microneedling. This further stimulates the healing process as the platelets are able to penetrate deeper into the skin. That’s why combining both procedures produces even more remarkable skin rejuvenation results.

Microneedling with PRP leaves the skin supple and healthy, as the treatment boosts the rejuvenation effect, and replenishes and renews the skin.

SkinPen is one of the most efficient microneedling pens on the market. It is an adjustable device that allows doctors to vary the depth of the needles, depending on the skin condition being treated.

Microneedling and RF energy

Microneedling with RF energy is also a highly beneficial treatment. RF energy is clinically proven to trigger collagen remodeling, and has been safely used in cosmetic procedures to improve skin tone and texture. RF energy heats the deep tissues of the skin and the energy is delivered via the microneedles. The heat is able to reach deeper than the needles, for optimal effect.

Although microneedling is suitable for a variety of skin types, it’s important to consult with a board certified dermatologist to determine if it’s right for you.

If you are in the Memphis, Germantown & Collierville, TN areas, contact Levy Dermatology to learn more.

Call (901) 295-0183 today to set up a consultation.

Apr
14
What Can I Expect During Breast Reduction Surgery?

What Can I Expect During Breast Reduction Surgery?

by Medical Spa Admin

Having large breasts is not always as attractive as it’s made out to be. Breasts that are too large can be painful and cumbersome to handle, and some women experience psychological embarrassment and self-esteem issues as a result. Breast reduction can therefore be life changing for them. But what is the procedure like and what can you expect during breast reduction surgery.

What is breast reduction surgery?

Breast reduction surgery is a procedure that is done to reduce the size of breasts that are excessively large and heavy. It involves removing glandular tissue, skin, and fat to make the breasts smaller and more proportionate with the rest of the body.

When the breasts are too large, they can cause a lot of physical issues including neck, shoulder, and back pain, rashes under the breasts, and grooves in the shoulders, to name a few. In addition, most women with overly large breasts find it very difficult to find clothes that fit. Breast reduction surgery will resolve the weight and size issues that cause these difficulties.

What can you expect during breast reduction surgery?

During breast reduction patients can expect the following:

  1. Removal of excess glandular tissue, fat, and skin.
  2. Relocation of the nipple.
  3. Redraping of the skin around the reduced breast.

Type of Anesthesia

Breast reduction surgery is usually performed under general anesthesia, and is done on an outpatient basis.

Types of Incisions

There are several techniques that can be used to perform breast reduction surgery including the following:

  • Wise pattern incisions: The wise breast reduction method also known as the anchor incision or inverted-T, is the most popular technique. It involves 3 incisions. One incision is made around the edge of the areola, another is made vertically down the front of the breast, and the final incision is made along the bottom crease of the breasts. The wise pattern is generally recommended for women with extremely large breasts, as it allows the surgeon to remove more tissue and skin than is possible with other breast reduction methods.
  • Vertical incision breast reduction: The vertical incision also known as the lollipop incision technique, is a newer breast reduction method. The incisions for this technique are made around the areola and then down from the areola to the breast crease. There is less scarring with this technique, because no incision is made at the bottom of the breast. The vertical incision technique is suitable for women that have a moderate amount of breast tissue that needs to be removed.

Removal of excess skin, tissue and fat

After the incision is made the surgeon will remove skin, tissue, and fat, and reshape the remaining tissue. The areola will also be reduced, and in some cases the nipple/areolar complex may need to be repositioned. The breasts will be smaller and firmer after surgery.

A small drain may be put under each breast and left in place for a few days, in order to help with drainage during healing. After surgery blood and fluid may accumulate below the skin and the drains help to remove the pooled fluid. The breasts are also wrapped in gauze and bandages.

Breast lift surgery takes 2-3 hours, but it depends on the extent of the reduction required.

After surgery

The breasts will feel tight and swollen after surgery, and patients generally wear a sports bra to help minimize swelling and provide support for the breasts. Pain is minimal, and most patients are able to go back to work after 1 week.

Choosing the right breast reduction method for you

There are several breast reduction methods, but the right one for you will depend on your specific situation, and your aesthetic goals. It’s therefore best to consult with a board certified plastic surgeon that is experienced with the various techniques.

Breast reduction surgery is often combined with a breast lift for optimal breast rejuvenation results.

If you are in the Roseville, Rocklin, or Loomis CA areas, contact board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Rudy Coscia for more information.

Call 916-773-5559 to set up a consultation at his Granite Bay, CA office or 916-929-1833 for the Sacramento, CA location.

Mar
01
What Causes Man Boobs?

What Causes Man Boobs?

by Medical Spa Admin

Men all around the world struggle with breasts that have too much soft tissue, which causes them to look more like female breasts. Although ‘man boobs’ don’t pose a physical health risk they can take a psychological toll, as they are often frustrating to deal with. But what causes man boobs and how can they be treated.

What causes man boobs

Enlarged breasts in men, also known as gynecomastia, is a condition that is typically caused by an imbalance in hormones, specifically testosterone and estrogen.

Gynecomastia occurs when there is a reduction in testosterone levels in relation to estrogen. Testosterone is the male sex hormone responsible for the development of male characteristics such as muscle mass and facial hair, while estrogen is the female equivalent. Men also produce estrogen, but in very small quantities. However, males that have unusually high estrogen levels and low testosterone can develop man boobs.

Gynecomastia commonly occurs in babies as well as teens during puberty, but very often resolves on its own, without the need for any medical intervention. However, it can also affect older males, especially those between the ages of 50-69.

Treatment for man boobs

Male breast reduction surgery is the usual treatment for man boobs. It is an outpatient procedure that is done under general anesthesia or IV sedation. During male breast reduction the surgeon will remove fat, glandular tissue and skin from the breast (click here to learn more).

Are you ready to treat your man boobs? Search our directory to find a practice in your area.

If you are in the Walnut Creek or Greenbrae, CA areas, Robert Aycock, MD is our featured board certified plastic surgeon.

You can reach Dr. Aycock at www.aycockmd.com, or by calling (925) 236-9748 for the office in Walnut Creek, CA or (415) 801-3887 for the Greenbrae, CA office.

Feb
16
Which procedures can be included in a Mommy Makeover?

Which procedures can be included in a Mommy Makeover?

by Medical Spa Admin

If you’re a mom, and you have tried but failed to get back in shape after pregnancy and breastfeeding, a mommy makeover may be the solution for you. A mommy makeover is a rewarding procedure that can restore your confidence, and change your life. But which procedures can be included in a mommy makeover.

What is a mommy makeover?

A mommy makeover is actually a group of surgical procedures that a woman can undergo in order to restore her pre-baby body. The procedures are done to address some of the changes brought on by pregnancy and breastfeeding, and typically focus on rejuvenating the breasts and abdomen. The breasts generally lose shape and volume after pregnancy and breastfeeding, and the abdomen sometimes sags.

Mommy makeover procedures may be done at the same time or separately, it all depends on the areas of emphasis. Doing several procedures at once can be beneficial, because it means preparing for only one round of surgery and having a single recovery period.

The procedures included in a mommy makeover are not the same for every woman, as the treatment is customized to fit the specific needs and concerns of each patient. However, there are some core procedures that are typically included in a mommy makeover. These include:

Tummy tuck (abdominoplasty)

A tummy tuck is a procedure that is done to tone and tighten the abdomen. Regardless of how many crunches some women do, they still have a pudgy tummy that simply won’t go away. This is most often due to separated abdominal muscles (diastasis recti), which can occur during pregnancy. During a tummy tuck the surgeon will remove excess skin and fat, and repair weak or stretched abdominal muscles.

Breast augmentation

Breast augmentation is often requested as part of a mommy makeover. It addresses the changes in breast tissue caused by breastfeeding that lead to a reduction in the size of the breasts. Breast augmentation uses implants to add volume to the breasts, helping to restore their natural shape and appearance. Breast implants are generally made of sterile salt water or silicone gel. While some women only want to restore the breast size they had before pregnancy, others opt to go up a cup size, in order to further enhance their figure.

Breast Lift

A breast lift (mastopexy) is often appealing to women that have breast ptosis (sagging), after pregnancy. The breasts often don’t regain their perky shape post-pregnancy, but a breast lift will raise them to a more youthful position. Mastopexy involves removing excess skin that is causing the breasts to sag, and tightening the breast tissue. There are various techniques that can be used to perform a breast lift, and the choice will depend on the degree of sagging.

A combined breast lift with implants is often recommended for women with sagging breasts that also wish to increase breast size. It is a single procedure that allows the plastic surgeon to address both sagginess and size, which are two of the most common complaints women have about their breasts after pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Liposuction

Liposuction is another popular mommy makeover procedure, because it helps to sculpt those areas with stubborn fat that will not budge, despite efforts at diet and exercise. After having a baby, many women have unwanted fat in areas such as the tummy, arms, back, and thighs, and liposuction is the best way to remove it.

Are you a good candidate for a mommy makeover?

If you are experiencing the lingering effects of giving birth, such as droopy, deflated breasts or a protruding tummy, you may be a good candidate for a mommy makeover. It’s the ideal procedure for moms that have worked at losing weight, but have some fat bulges that will not go away.

If you think you might be a good candidate for a mommy makeover, it’s best to consult with a board certified plastic surgeon for an evaluation. The surgeon will discuss the various procedures with you, and determine which combination would be most appropriate.

Is your post-baby body getting you down?

Contact Ed Pittman, MD of Pittman Plastic Surgery located in Athens, GA, for more information on mommy makeover surgery.

Call (706) 549-3203 to schedule a consultation.

Feb
04
Is Fraxel or Vbeam better for acne scar reduction?

Is Fraxel or Vbeam better for acne scar reduction?

by Medical Spa Admin

If you have struggled with acne, you already know the frustration that pimples can cause. But as annoying as pimples are, they often leave behind telltale acne scars that are far worse. Thankfully, laser skin rejuvenation treatments like Fraxel and Vbeam can reduce these scars for you. But is Fraxel or Vbeam better for acne scar reduction.

What are acne scars?

Acne scars form as a consequence of the damage to the skin during the healing of active acne, which leads to the abnormal production of collagen. Collagen is a structural protein that supports the tissues, and is integrally involved in the wound healing process. During healing the skin produces additional collagen to repair the damage done to the dermal layer of the skin. However, the collagen fibers develop unevenly, resulting in the formation of scars.

Acne scars come in various shapes and sizes, and are usually raised or depressed. The acne scars most people encounter are ice pick scars which are small and deep, boxcar scars that are broad and depressed, and rolling scars which have smooth edges and resemble hills and valleys.

Laser therapy for acne scars

Laser skin resurfacing treats scars by breaking up the excess collagen without damaging the skin. Laser therapy is an effective solution for acne scars, because it reverses the textural damage to the skin by remodeling the collagen.

Fraxel laser therapy

The Fraxel is a non-ablative fractional laser that is routinely used to reverse the signs of aging. It is also used to treat skin issues such as sun damage, hyperpigmentation, wrinkles, and fine lines. The Fraxel is also considered one of the most effective solutions for reducing acne scars.

How Fraxel treats acne scars

The laser emits microscopic laser beams that specifically target the scar, so the skin around the scar is not affected in any way. It also stimulates the production of collagen, and this helps to rebuild the skin from within.

Treatment takes approximately 20 minutes, and there is virtually no discomfort. Numbing cream is also applied prior to treatment to make the procedure more comfortable. Many patients say that Fraxel treatment feels similar to having a rubber band snapped against the skin. It generally takes 4-6 Fraxel treatments to achieve the desired reduction in acne scars.

There is generally some redness and swelling after Fraxel treatment, and patients are advised to say out of the sun, as the skin is very sensitive after the procedure.

Vbeam Perfecta

Vbeam Perfecta is an advanced pulsed dye laser that is especially beneficial for removing vascular and pigmented lesions.

The Vbeam Perfecta can be used to treat a range of skin concerns including acne scars, rosacea, leg veins, spider veins, warts, and more.

How Vbeam treats acne scars

The Vbeam is a state-of-the-art laser that delivers pulsed laser energy at a wavelength of 595nm. The gentle pulses pass through the outer and inner layers of the skin. The energy is absorbed by the hemoglobin in the blood vessels and closes down the blood vessels that are causing the discoloration or redness. It also triggers collagen production.

The Vbeam works based on the principle of selective photothermolysis, which means it only damages the targeted tissue, and leaves the surrounding tissue unharmed.

Vbeam treatment is not painful but patients may feel a tingling sensation during treatment.

Is Fraxel or Vbeam better for acne scar reduction?

Fraxel and Vbeam are both effective treatments for acne scar reduction, but they work in different ways. In fact, they are sometimes used in combination in order to achieve optimal results.

Fraxel improves the texture of the skin, so it helps to minimize the rough texture of acne scars. However, the advanced Fraxel Dual is a dual wavelength laser that improves skin texture and addresses skin discoloration.

On the other hand, the Vbeam laser is ideal for reducing redness in the skin, and this makes it effective for reducing the redness and discoloration of acne scars. However, it is not as effective for improving skin texture.

Are you interested in laser therapy for acne scars?

If you are in the Orange County area, contact Total Dermatology in Irvine, CA for more information.

Call 949.727.3800 today to schedule a consultation.

Jan
25
How long is recovery from breast augmentation?

How long is recovery from breast augmentation?

by Medical Spa Admin

Despite the thrill and anticipation most women feel when they make the decision to undergo breast augmentation, they are often concerned about the recovery process. Patients typically want realistic insights regarding how long recovery from breast augmentation is likely to take, and what to expect during the process.

Breast augmentation

Breast augmentation is a surgical procedure that adds volume to the breasts using implants that are typically made of silicone gel (silicone implants), or sterile salt water (saline implants).

How long is recovery from breast augmentation?

Recovery after breast augmentation normally takes 2-3 weeks. However, the recovery time may be longer for some patients, depending on factors such as the placement of the implants, location of the incisions, and size of the implants. For example, recovery generally takes longer when the implants are placed below the chest muscle (submuscular), rather than below the breast tissue (subglandular).

The breasts will be somewhat swollen and sore immediately after breast augmentation, and this can take a few days to resolve. Patients are advised to closely follow the post-operative instructions of their plastic surgeon, to ensure optimal healing.

Most patients are able to return to work 1-2 weeks after surgery, but all strenuous activity should be avoided for at least 4 weeks. Normal activities can be resumed after 6 weeks.

The popularity of breast augmentation continues to increase, and patients are generally very happy with their results. Thanks to modern surgical techniques, the recovery process is safe and comfortable for most patients.

Interested in learning more about breast augmentation? Search our directory to find a practice in your area.

If you are in the greater Orange County, CA area, Tenley Lawton, MD, Newport Beach, CA is our featured board certified plastic surgeon.

You can reach Dr. Lawton at www.lawtonmd.com, or by calling (949) 835-5249.

Jan
14
What are the benefits of DualSculpting?

What are the benefits of DualSculpting?

by Medical Spa Admin

By now, you’ve probably heard about CoolSculpting, the remarkable non-invasive alternative to liposuction. CoolSculpting removes small areas of stubborn fat without invasive surgery or a lengthy downtime, but DualSculpting offers the same exciting results in less time. So what are the benefits of DualSculpting?

How DualSculpting works

DualSculpting uses two CoolSculpting machines at the same time to double the fat blasting power. CoolSculpting reshapes the body by freezing away unwanted fat below the skin. The treated fat cells die, and are gradually eliminated from the body over the following months. CoolSculpting is designed for people who are already at or near their ideal body weight, but still have some stubborn fat that does not respond to diet and exercise.

What are the benefits of DualSculpting?

DualSculpting allows patients to treat more areas in a single session. The CoolSculpting machine only treats one area at a time. This is okay when treating a problem area like a double chin, but patients that need to treat the thighs or flanks usually have to schedule 2 CoolSculpting appointments. DualSculpting makes it possible to treat both thighs simultaneously in a single session, which means fewer appointments.

DualSculpting is a time-saver. Patients needing to treat several trouble spots can schedule fewer appointments. DualSculpting is a more efficient way for patients to get the results they want, without having to take a lot of time out of their already busy day. Since DualSculpting can be easily done in the lunch hour, there’s no need to take time off work.

Would you like to learn more about the benefits of DualSculpting? Search our directory to find a practice in your area.

If you are in the Indianapolis, IN area, Fundamentals Med Spa is our featured practice.

You can reach them at www.fundamentalsmedspa.com, or by calling (317) 222-7546.

Dec
15
Can Surgery Fix the Way My Ears Look?

Can Surgery Fix the Way My Ears Look?

by Medical Spa Admin

Do you have protruding or prominent ears and don’t like the way they look? It is a common problem that affects about 2% of the population in the US. People with protruding ears sometimes feel self-conscious or embarrassed about their appearance, so they often ask – Can Surgery fix the way my ears look?

There are a variety of factors that can cause some people’s ears to stick out more than others, but it’s often the result of genetics or a birth defect. Unfortunately, most people see it as a bad thing, and children with protruding ears are often teased and bullied by their peers.

Can Surgery Fix the Way My Ears Look?
If you are unhappy with the way your ears look, otoplasty or ear surgery can fix them. Otoplasty reshapes the ears and makes them more aesthetically appealing by setting them back closer to the head. Ear surgery may also be carried out to fix large or stretched earlobes, reduce ears that are too big, or to improve the appearance of a ‘cupped ear’ or ‘lop ear.’

Otoplasty is an outpatient procedure that is performed under general anesthesia. It is typically done on children, but adults can be candidates for the procedure as well.

The incision for ear surgery is usually made on the back of the ear, in the region where the ear and head intersect, so the scar is not visible. When otoplasty is being done to correct protruding ears, the cartilage is shaped and pinned back towards the head.

Are you interested in ear surgery? Search our directory to find a practice in your area.

If you are in the Knoxville and Powell, TN areas, Gallaher Plastic Surgery & Spa is our featured practice.

You can reach them at www.gallaherplasticsurgery.com, or by calling (865) 671-3888.

Dec
02
What Procedures Are in a Mommy Makeover?

What Procedures Are in a Mommy Makeover?

by Medical Spa Admin

Have you experienced major changes in your body after giving birth? You’re not alone, most women undergo changes in their body after pregnancy that they struggle to cope with, but a mommy makeover can help. It can boost your self-esteem and change your life. But what procedures are included in a mommy makeover.

What is a mommy makeover?
A mommy makeover is a combination of plastic surgery procedures women undergo to restore their pre-pregnancy figure. The operations may be done in a single session but it depends on the type of procedures being done, as well as the health of the patient.

What Procedures Are in a Mommy Makeover?
A mommy makeover typically includes the following:

  • Breast augmentation: After pregnancy and breastfeeding many women experience a noticeable loss of volume in the breasts, breast augmentation will restore volume, and make the breasts fuller and shapelier.
  • Breast lift: The breasts may also become droopy and saggy after pregnancy and nursing. A breast lift elevates the breasts by removing excess skin, and tightening the breast tissue.
  • Tummy Tuck: A sagging tummy is another issue many women have to deal with after pregnancy. A tummy tuck or abdominoplasty is designed to remove the excess skin and fat, and repair the underlying abdominal muscles.
  • Liposuction: Liposuction gets rid of stubborn pockets of fat in areas such as the arms, thighs, and buttocks.

A mommy makeover can take anywhere from 3-5 hours to complete, depending on the combination of procedures being done (click here to learn more).

Are you interested in a mommy makeover? Search our directory to find a practice in your area.

If you are in the Winter Park, FL area, Lakemont Plastic Surgery & Laser Center is our featured practice.

You can reach them at www.scottgreenbergmd.com, or by calling (407) 644-3137.

Nov
09
How Many Tattoo Removal Treatments will I need

How Many Tattoo Removal Treatments will I need

by Medical Spa Admin

Are you tired of looking at that old tattoo? It may be time to give laser tattoo removal a try. Patients generally want speedy results with laser tattoo removal, so they are always interested in finding out how many tattoo removal treatments they will need.

What is laser tattoo removal?
Laser tattoo removal refers to the use of laser energy to remove an unwanted tattoo. The high intensity laser energy is absorbed by the ink particles and breaks them down into smaller fragments. These fragments are eventually flushed away by the body’s immune system.

How many tattoo removal treatments will you need
Tattoos are unique markings, so it’s often difficult to predict the exact number of treatments that will be required to completely remove them. However, in most cases, it takes about 5-10 tattoo removal treatments. Sessions are generally spaced about 6-8 weeks apart.

Also, the number of treatments needed for tattoo removal is influenced by a variety of factors including the ink colors, type of ink, age of the tattoo, and the technology used.

Laser tattoo removal using advanced systems like the PicoWay laser, often requires fewer treatments in comparison to other lasers.

The PicoWay is an innovative multi-wavelength laser that uses picosecond technology to erase a tattoo. The picosecond laser delivers ultra-short bursts of energy that shatter the tattoo pigment into very tiny particles. The device also has 3 wavelengths, so it is able to efficiently treat a wide range of tattoo colors, because each wavelength targets different colors.

Depending on the size of the tattoo, PicoWay can sometimes remove a tattoo in 3-4 treatments (click here to learn more).

Are you ready to book your laser tattoo removal treatment? Search our directory to find a practice in your area.

If you are in the Franklin, TN area, Life at Cool Springs is our featured practice.

You can reach them at www.lifecoolsprings.com, or by calling (615) 502-3968.

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