Ask the Medical Cosmetic Expert

May 2012 Article

Skin Discolorations

In a clinical setting we often see a variety of skin issues involving discolorations and pigmentation changes.

It is important to recognize the differences in diagnosing so the proper treatment protocols can be provided.

MELASMA is a very common patchy brown, tan discoloration almost entirely seen in women in the reproductive years, (ages 20-50).  It is thought to be primarily related to sun exposure, external hormones like the birth control pill and internal hormonal changes as seen in pregnancy or hormone replacement therapies, family history and certain medications that make the skin more prone to pigmentation after exposure to UV light.     People with olive or darker skin have higher incidences of melasma.

Three types of common facial patterns have been identified in melasma including centrofacial (center of the face), malar (cheekbones), and mandibular (jawbone).  The centrofacial pattern is the most prevalent form and includes the forehead, cheeks, upper lip, nose and chin.  The malar pattern includes the upper cheeks.  The mandibular pattern is specific to the jaw.

When melasma occurs during pregnancy it is called chloasma or “the mask of pregnancy”.

Treatment of melasma – melasma MAY clear spontaneously without treatment.  For some people the discoloration with melasma may disappear following pregnancy or if birth control pills and hormone therapy are discontinued.

Although melasma tends to be a chronic disorder with periodic ups and downs the prognonis for most cases is good.  Just as melasma develops slowly, clearance also tends to be slow.   In order to treat melasma, combination or specially formulated creams designed for “fading” can be used.  In conjunction with home cream applications, in office treatments include chemical peels and microdermabrasion.  Chemical peels are available for different skin types, glycolic acid peels are very common with mixtures of 2% hydroquinones.  Microdermabrasion helps exfoliate the top layers of the skin.

Lasers may be used in melasma.  Laser therapy is not the primary choice to treat melasma.  Lasers may actually temporarily worsen some types of melasma and should be used with caution.

 

A daily sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30 that contains physical blockers such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide is recommended.  The regular use of sun protection enhances the effectiveness of melasma treatments.

 

 

April 2012 Article

Varicose Veins – If you experience aching, pain, heaviness, tiredness, fatigue, itching, burning, cramping, throbbing and swelling in your legs and have varicose veins you may be suffering from venous reflux disease.  A condition also referred to as venous insufficiency.  Patients who have all of the symptoms without obvious varicose veins may also have this condition.

Venous reflux or venous insufficiency develops when the valves that usually keep blood flowing out of your legs become diseased and don’t function as one-way valves.  Venous reflux is venous blood being pushed back into the legs, instead of it moving towards the heart and lungs for proper oxygenation.

Longstanding untreated venous insufficiency can result in changes to the skin and ulceration of the lower legs.

ClariVein is the new endovascular (meaning in the vein) technique for the treatment of venous reflux disease of large veins.

Compared to other similar techniques (laser or radio frequency) there are greatly reduced pain levels, discomfort and bruising during and post procedure.  The ClariVein device works by disrupting the lining of the vein allowing the highly effective use of a drug which is used to close the vein.  Thermal techniques such as laser or radio frequency use heat to destroy the vein  and as a result cause severe trauma resulting in much of the pain and bruising associated with these techniques.

The advantages of ClariVein for the patient

.        Safe and effective technique with no need for tumescent anesthesia

.       Eliminates the risk of nerve or skin damage from thermal energy

.       Ideally suited for treatment of large veins

.      No staining observed

.      Cost effective in comparison to laser techniques

 

 

March 2012 Article

FAT  – THE IDEAL FILLER

Lipostructure

A revolutionary technique that uses your own body fat as a natural, living filler to achieve structural alterations wherever it is placed in the face and body.

To ensure lasting changes the transplanted fat must be able to survive in its new environment.  Body fat is gently harvested, refined with minimal handling and injected by layering it into the augmented area.  Fat transfer can be used to push up a sagging buttocks, fill breasts or support a drooping eyelid.

Using this method on the face is an excellent option for women or men where the volume has with aging depleted causing sagging and hollowing of the facial structure.  The placement of fat will create more angular cheeks, healthier eyes, a stronger jawline or more voluptuous lips.

Once the fat is placed it no longer feels or looks like fat it assumes the texture of the surrounding tissues.  The structure and feel of the augmented area feels and looks natural.

Below is an example of fat lipostructure to a face.  This patient is 50 years old and apart from lipo in the chin area all of the changes were created using her own fat.  No other procedures were performed.

 

 

February 2012 Article

A new approach to bodysculpting is able to effectively reduce the volume of fat in an area and thus contour the body into a more defined shape. The trained physician is able to artistically sculpt the body , focusing on the concerns of the patient and addressing individual needs with accuracy and control.

Almost any area on the body where there is fat can be treated. The most common areas for women include the abdomen, waist, thighs, hips, buttocks, neck, arms and knees. In men the most commonly treated areas include the love handles, abdomen, breasts, neck and chin.

All body shapes can be treated.

There are health benefits associated with reducing the amount of fat in the abdomen and flanks. It can decrease your insulin resistance, also fat contains many different toxins that will be removed. You will have more energy and the ability to exercise more. Bodysculpting is not intended as a weight loss program.

Our lipo procedures are done with a tumescent technique. The word tumescent means swelling and simply refers to the injection into the fat layer of a mixture of sterile saline and numbing medication (lidocaine) and epinephrine that controls bleeding. This solution completely numbs the area due to the effect of local anesthetic, therefore general anesthetic is not required. Once the area is anesthetised the body is artistically sculpted. Very little downtime is involved and recovery is rapid.

The removed fat cells do not grow back. Not all of the fat cells are removed with the procedure, therefore there is the possibility for ones left behind to expand a little if you gain weight after your procedure.

Complete resolution of post surgical swelling, and skin tightening following bodysculpting procedures may not become fully apparent for 12-16 weeks, nevertheless, patients will see immediate improvement right after the procedure.

 

 

January 2012 Article

Happy 2012, let the challenges of a New Year begin.  We often feel that the start of a new year represents a “do over”, a new chance for a better year, a better you.

Have the resolutions from January 1, already failed?  Has the diet plan already gone by the way side? We have written a lot about body contouring over the last year, is this the year you put the plan into action?

Almost any area on the body where there is fat can be treated.  The most common areas for women include the abdomen, waist, thighs, hips, buttocks, neck, arms and knees.  In men the most commonly

treated areas include the love handles, abdomen, breasts, neck and chin.

All body shapes can be treated.  There are health benefits associated with reducing the amount of fat in the abdomen and flanks.

Have you vowed this is the year you are going to take better care of your skin?

Talk to us about the many options available to help smooth the texture, clarify the tone, clear the pigmentation, correct the color.

Is this the year you finally try Botox?  Get those luscious lips you always wanted?

Let us be part of your New Year, let us help you, “Be yourself only better”.

 

December 2011 Article

Our workshop is busy for Santa this year. He pilots the sleigh delivering your wishes and wants.

Some think he is magical or mythical, a fulfiller of dreams.

With his bag full of tools and techniques his needles do poke!

But we all know that behind any hard working man is a team of    support.  We keep him jolly and help deliver the desires to folk!

Our elves make it all happen and here is the how:

Kim and Chris are always there to say hello,  they are the front line making sure you see Santa on time.

Judith will hold your hand and help you be strong.

Carol makes sure you are beautiful each day from the moment you wake.

Brenda will help you never to look old or misshaped.

So ladies while nestled all snug in your beds, visions of botox will now dance through your heads. Make sure  your stockings are hung by the chimney with care, in hopes that Skin Technologies will soon be there.

 

 

November 2011 Article

As a state of the art laser facility we have multiple technologies.  The science behind lasers is based on wavelengths of light and what that wavelength of light (once charged becomes energy) treats.

The pulse dye laser treats areas of vascularity (redness), which makes it the optimum choice for a variety of skin conditions.

The gold standard in treating

port wine stains which are vascular birth marks in which swollen blood vessels create a reddish-purplish discoloration.  Port wine stains are present at birth and persist throughout life.  They occur most often on the face but can appear anywhere on the body.  In adulthood thickening of the lesion or development of small lumps may occur.

Other conditions treated with pulse dye lasers include:

•  Rosacea  and facial veins represent one of the most common indications for which patients seek laser treatment.  Rosacea is a common inflammatory disorder which manifests itself as generalized redness and a tendency for flushing.  The vascular component of rosacea leads to vessels and telangiectasia (small vessels) on the face.  Rosacea in its worse stages causes papules and pustules and tissue thickening.

• Post acne redness and acne scars are a condition that affects many patients.  The redness can remain long after the acne is gone up to 12 months or more in some patients.  The post inflammatory redness is caused by the deposits of oxyhemoglobin (the coloring in blood) which seeps into the surrounding tissue causing “staining”.  The laser targets the redness and stimulates the production of new collagen.

• Photodamaged skin and poikiloderma of civatte (redneck) is a combination of telangiectasia and irregularities in pigmentation.  This pigmentary change is usually a brownish red reticulated pigmentation.  It is understood to be a result of chronic sun damage and affects both men and women.

If any of these conditions apply to you or someone you know make an appointment for a free consultation, the fix is easier than you think!

 

 

 

October 2011 Article

I DON’T LIKE THE WAY MY LEGS LOOK………..

A comment often heard in our clinic, yes we can help.

Varicose veins are enlarged veins, usually on the legs and feet.  Both varicose veins and spider veins, which are a less severe version of varicose veins are usually only a cosmetic concern, however varicose veins can cause pain and may signal a circulatory problem.

Varicose Vein Causes.  Aging causes varicose veins since the veins lose elasticity and stretch.  Heredity, being overweight and sitting or standing for long periods of time may also increase risk.  Some pregnant women develop varicose veins due to hormonal changes and circulatory changes to support the fetus, which may enlarge veins.

Varicose Vein Symptoms.  Varicose veins are dark blue or purple and may appear bulging or twisted.  They may feel achy, or they may burn, and the pain is worsened if you have been sitting or standing for long periods of time.

DIAGNOSING.  If you are concerned about your veins, see us to be examined and discuss your symptoms such as pain or blood clots.  An ultrasound  will be performed to see if the veins have any clots or leaky valves.  We will also want to see if you have any other medical conditions such as diabetes that may be causing problems with blood  circulation.

TREATMENT.  Varicose vein treatments, including sclerotherapy involve injecting the veins with a solution that scars and closes them.  Laser treatment will help the smaller veins fade and disappear.  Simple steps such as exercising, losing weight and not standing or sitting for extended periods will also help your overall symptoms.  The use of compression stockings squeeze the legs to keep blood moving more efficiently helping the overall circulation.

It may not be possible to completely prevent varicose veins, but you can lower your risk of developing them by being a healthy weight, exercising to improve circulation and vein strength, regularly changing your position when you are sitting or standing and going without high heels for long periods of time.  Also when you are sitting avoid crossing your  legs, which can injure them, a risk factor for varicose veins.

Call us for a free consultation so we may assess your venous problems.

 

 

September 2011 Article

Body Sculpture

A new approach to bodysculpting is able to effectively  reduce the volume of fat in an area  and thus contour the body into a  more defined  shape.  The trained physician is able to artistically sculpt the body , focusing on the concerns of the patient  and addressing individual needs with accuracy and control.

Almost any area on the body where there is fat can be treated.  The most common areas for women include the abdomen, waist, thighs, hips, buttocks, neck, arms and knees.  In men the most commonly treated areas include the love handles, abdomen, breasts, neck and chin.

All body shapes can be treated. There  are  health  benefits  associated with  reducing the amount of fat in the abdomen and flanks.  It can decrease your insulin resistance, also  fat contains many different toxins that will be removed.  You will have more energy, have the ability to exercise more, sometimes increase your libido.   Bodysculpting is not intended as a weight loss program.

Our lipo procedures are done with a tumescent technique.   The word tumescent means swelling and simply refers to the injection into the fat layer of a mixture of sterile saline and numbing medication (lidocaine) and epinephrine that controls bleeding.  This solution completely numbs the area due to the effect of local anesthetic, therefore general anesthetic is not required.  Once the area is anesthetised the body is artistically sculpted.   Very little downtime is involved and recovery is rapid.

The removed fat cells do not grow back.  Not all of the fat cells are removed with the procedure, therefore there is the possibility for ones left behind to expand a little if you gain weight after your procedure.

Complete resolution of post surgical swelling, and skin tightening  following bodysculpting procedures may not become fully apparent for 12-16 weeks,   nevertheless, patients will see immediate improvement  right after the procedure.

 

 

 

August 2011 Article

Lymphatic Massage – The Benefits

What is the lymphatic system?
The lymphatic system plays a crucial role in your body’s ability to heal from injury and ward off disease. It is essential to the body’s drainage system for cleansing and filtering out toxins and bacteria. Aches, pains, soreness and flu like symptoms could all be caused by congested lymph pathways. The lymphatic system has no central pump and depends on muscle contraction, exercise and manual manipulation to move fluid.

What is Lymphatic Massage?
Lymphatic massage or lymph drainage massage utilizes a very light pressure combined with soft pumping movements in the direction of the lymph nodes. Immune system function can be significantly increased, improving metabolism and helping the body eliminate waste and toxins.

Lymphatic Massage after Body Lipo Contouring
Lipo induces trauma to the treated tissue disrupting cellular contents as well as lymphatic channels. No matter how lipo is performed it results in swelling and some bruising. To help control the amount of swelling and encourage its elimination, the use of compression garments is the current standard of post operative care. Compression garments work by applying low grade pressure which helps in producing drainage from severed channels and provides an external molding pressure for the skin to adapt to its modified understructure.
The other very helpful postoperative therapy is lymphatic massage. Lymphatic massage after body lipo contouring can assist significantly in recovery of the traumatized tissues. Lymphatic massage offers a variety of tissue benefits of which the most significant is lymphatic flow and circulation improvement. By increasing the flow of the lymphatic system swelling from the lipo is reduced and circulation enhances delivery of oxygen to tissue to build cells which make collagen.

THE SYNERGIE SOLUTION
The Synergie Aesthetic Massage System is a device that delivers a non-invasive deep massage to subdermal tissues to aid in draining and circulating the lymphatic system.

As part of your lipo procedure with us, lymphatic massage is now available.
See us today for your free consultation.