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VASER Liposuction vs. Liposuction: What’s the Difference?

VASER Liposuction vs. Liposuction: What's the Difference?

Are you considering liposuction to get rid of a few areas of unwanted fat? If you are, it’s important to be aware that there are several minimally invasive alternatives to traditional liposuction, including VASER liposuction. But when it comes to VASER liposuction vs liposuction what’s the difference.

What is VASER LIPOSUCTION?

VASER (Vibration Amplification of Sound Energy) liposuction is a body contouring procedure that uses ultrasound technology to assist with fat reduction.

How VASER liposuction works

A tumescent solution, which is a local anesthetic mixed with saline solution, is injected into the targeted area at the start of the procedure. After this process is complete, tiny incisions are made in the treatment area, through which ultrasonic probes are inserted into the fat deposits. The vibrations caused by the ultrasound waves loosen the fatty deposits, which are then removed using a suction process (learn nore).

VASER Liposuction vs. Liposuction: What’s the Difference?

Liposuction is different from VASER liposuction in several ways. Whereas traditional liposuction uses a cannula (small tube) to break up the fat deposits, VASER liposuction uses ultrasound energy to loosen the fat.

Liposuction is a more invasive procedure, so there is more bruising and bleeding during recovery, when compared to VASER liposuction.

Also, liposuction is suitable for patients wanting to remove large deposits of fat, while VASER liposuction is more appropriate for individuals that are at a healthy weight, but have a few stubborn fat bulges they would like to get rid of.

Would you like to learn more about the various liposuction options? Search our directory to find a practice in your area.

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

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

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Is dermaplaning painful?

Is dermaplaning painful?

It’s a well-known fact that regular exfoliation can keep the skin looking youthful and radiant, but dermaplaning takes exfoliating to the next level. Dermaplaning is a procedure that exfoliates the skin by shaving away surface debris; as a result, people are often curious to find out if the procedure is painful.

What is dermaplaning?

Dermaplaning is a facial rejuvenation treatment in which a medical grade scalpel is used to exfoliate dead skin cells and fine facial hair (aka peach fuzz), from the surface of the skin.

Dermaplaning is safe for all skin types, and can benefit the skin in several ways. In particular, it triggers cell regeneration and clears the skin, allowing for much better product penetration (learn more).

How does dermaplaning work?

During dermaplaning the dermatologist or aesthetician will hold the skin taut and move the surgical scalpel across the surface, using light, gentle strokes. This process clears away dead skin cells, peach fuzz, oil, and dirt that can clog the hair follicles.

Is dermaplaning painful?

Dermaplaning is absolutely not painful; because the outermost layer of the skin and facial hair are removed very carefully, using light strokes. When performed by a board certified dermatologist or licensed aesthetician, dermaplaning should be completely pain-free. In fact, hair removal methods such as waxing and threading are considered far more painful than dermaplaning.

What does dermaplaning feel like?

During dermaplaning patients will feel a slight scraping or brushing sensation, so it feels similar to having the face shaved with a razor.

Are you ready to brighten and refine your skin with dermaplaning? Search our directory to find a practice in your area.

If you are in the Philadelphia, Doylestown, or Bucks County, PA areas, Novique Medical Aesthetics is our featured practice.

You can reach them at www.novique.com, or by calling (267) 244-8792.

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How long is recovery from gynecomastia surgery?

How long is recovery from gynecomastia surgery?

Male breast enlargement (gynecomastia) is a common problem that makes men feels embarrassed and self-conscious. Fortunately, gynecomastia surgery is available, and many men are choosing to undergo surgery rather than suffer in silence. But how long is recovery from gynecomastia surgery.

Gynecomastia surgery

Gynecomastia surgery (male breast reduction surgery) may involve surgical excision, liposuction, or both; it really depends on the specific needs of the patient. Excision is recommended for patients that predominantly have excess breast tissue and skin; whereas liposuction is suggested for patients with breasts that contain mainly fat.

How long is recovery from gynecomastia surgery?

The length of recovery from gynecomastia surgery varies, depending on the type of surgery done. Healing after liposuction is generally shorter, as it takes approximately one week, but recovery after surgical excision may take 2-4 weeks.

Patients are generally able to go back to work 7-10 days after gynecomastia surgery, but this can be earlier depending on their type of work. However, heavy lifting should be avoided for at least 2 weeks.

What to expect during recovery

Recovery after gynecomastia surgery is generally straightforward and pain-free. Patients can expect to experience some tenderness, tightness, and swelling at the incision sites, but these symptoms usually resolve within a few days. Patients are usually able to go back to the gym after 2 weeks, as long as there are no complications.

Most patients are back to normal after about 6 weeks, and by that time the chest will look noticeably flatter, firmer, and more masculine (learn more).

Are you ready to get the contoured chest you desire?

If you are in the New York City, Brooklyn, Queens, Staten Island or New Jersey, NY areas, contact board certified plastic surgeon Robert Vitolo M.D. for a consultation.

You can reach Dr. Vitolo at drvitolo.com, or by calling (718) 667-0890.

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What is the difference between botox and Juvederm

What is the difference between botox and Juvederm

If you would like to erase unwanted wrinkles, botox and Juvederm are two of the most popular solutions out there. They are both cosmetic injectables that can minimize wrinkles and rejuvenate your face, but they are not the same. So what is the difference between botox and juvederm.

Differences between botox and juvederm

What are they made of?

Botox is a form of botulinum toxin and is made by the bacterium clostridium botulinum, which is the bacterium that causes botulism. Juvederm facial fillers contain hyaluronic acid (HA). HA is a molecule that occurs naturally in the body, and keeps the skin plump and hydrated.

What type of wrinkles do they treat

Botox and Juvederm work on different types of wrinkles. Botox is most effective for wrinkles caused by the contraction of facial muscles due to expressions such as laughing, smiling, and frowning. This includes frown lines, forehead lines, and crow’s feet.

Juvederm is a great choice for lines that can be seen even when the muscles are not contracting, e.g. nasolabial folds and marionette lines around the nose and mouth. Juvederm can also be used to add volume to the cheeks and lips.

How they work

Botox is a neurotoxin, so it works by temporarily stopping muscle activity, and this prevents wrinkles from forming. However, when Juvederm is injected into the skin, the HA molecules attract and retain water, and the resulting volume fills in wrinkles and folds.

How long do they last

Botox lasts 3-6 months on average, whereas Juvederm can last anywhere from 6-18 months depending on the specific filler used.

Would you like to learn more about botox and Juvederm.

If you are in the New York, Brooklyn, Queens, Staten Island, or New Jersey, NY areas, contact board certified plastic surgeon Robert Vitolo MD for a consultation.

You can reach Dr. Vitolo at drvitolo.com, or by calling (718) 667-0890.

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How to Increase Collagen in the skin through microneedling

How to Increase Collagen in the skin through microneedling

Are you on a quest to tighten sagging skin and reduce fine lines and wrinkles? These signs of aging often indicate a lack of collagen, but it’s possible to boost collagen levels and restore dewy, younger-looking skin with microneedling. So let’s take a look at how to increase collagen in the skin through microneedling.

What exactly is collagen?

Collagen is a protein that is naturally abundant throughout the body. It is found in connective tissue in areas such as the bones, ligaments, muscles, tendons, and of course, the skin. Collagen keeps the skin firm and supple and activates cell renewal and repair, so it’s considered the foundation of healthy, youthful skin.

Unfortunately, the body produces less collagen as we age, and as a result, the skin starts to sag, wrinkle and create fine lines. Boosting collagen levels can help reverse these signs of aging, and restore younger-looking skin. But how can you increase collagen in the skin? That’s where microneedling comes in.

What is Microneedling?

Microneedling is a minimally invasive skin rejuvenation treatment in which short, tiny needles are used to create microscopic holes in the skin. These micro-channels trigger the skin’s natural repair process. Microneedling has been around for decades, but it has gained mass popularity in recent years thanks to a new generation of devices like SkinPen.

SkinPen

SkinPen is an advanced microneedling device that can be used to treat various skin types and is suitable for use on both the face and body. SkinPen has adjustable needle depth settings, so treatment can be customized based on the needs of each patient. This feature also makes it possible to treat a variety of areas, including delicate skin around the eyes (click here to learn more).

How to Increase Collagen in the skin through microneedling

Microneedling is also known as collagen induction therapy, because of its ability to boost collagen stores in the skin. Here’s how it works.

During treatment the microneedling device is moved rapidly across the skin, creating tiny controlled injuries in the epidermal layer, while leaving normal skin in between. These micro-injuries help to spur the skin’s natural repair process. As the skin recovers, the collagen-producing cells which are known as fibroblasts are activated, resulting in the formation of new collagen. The added collagen provides support for the skin, so it looks smoother and more youthful as it heals.
The collagen remodeling process also plays an important role in strengthening the skin and enhancing the structural components required to make it thicker and firmer.

Benefits of Microneedling

Microneedling increases collagen in the skin, and because of this, it can target common signs of aging such as sagging skin, wrinkles, and fine lines. It’s, therefore, no surprise that microneedling is popular among men and women looking to rejuvenate their aging skin. Microneedling also reduces large pores, brightens the complexion, and brings back the skin’s youthful glow.

In addition, microneedling makes it easier for cosmetic products to penetrate the skin. Consequently, it is often combined with infusions of anti-aging ingredients, for optimal skin rejuvenation.

Below are answers to some of the questions patients frequently asked about microneedling.

When will I see results?

Most patients notice some initial improvement in skin texture and tightening of the skin immediately after their microneedling treatment. However, full results take time, because the new collagen will form over the course of 4-6 months, so additional improvements will be seen. The results of microneedling look very natural and are long-lasting.

What is the recovery time?

Recovery time after microneedling is minimal. Patients may experience a few hours of redness and peeling which generally lasts 1-4 days.

How many treatments will I need?

The number of microneedling treatments needed will depend on your specific aesthetic goals and the health of your skin. However, most patients need 3-6 treatments on average.

Are there any side-effects

There are no significant side-effects after microneedling.

Is microneedling painful?

A topical cream is used to numb the skin at the start of treatment, so microneedling is virtually painless.

Are you ready to minimize wrinkles and get supple, smooth skin? Ask your doctor about microneedling.

If you are in the New York, NY area, contact Anand Medical Spa for a consultation.

Call 212-653-0366 today to schedule an appointment.

About Author:

Dr. Sunanda Chugh, MD is an internal medicine specialist in New York, NY. She graduated from Saint George’s University School Of Medicine and specializes in internal medicine. Dr. Sunanda Chugh is CEO and Medical Director at Anand Medical Spa New York, USA. Anand Medical Spa specializes in aesthetic procedures such as Botox for wrinkles, Microneedling, Juvederm for smile lines, Voluma and Ultherapy.

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Does a Non-Surgical Facelift Exist?

You may not be able to beat the aging process, but you can certainly use cosmetic treatments to slow it down.  If you want to transform your looks without having surgery you can opt for a non-surgical facelift.

Does it Exist?

Yes, there are several minimally invasive treatments available to address signs of aging and refresh your appearance.   A non-surgical facelift can tighten sagging skin, contour the cheeks, reduce fine lines and wrinkles around the mouth, and define the jawline.

Non-Surgical Facelift Options

  • Ultherapy

Ultherapy is often referred to as the non-surgical facelift because it targets the same area addressed during surgery, which are the support layers beneath the skin.  Ultherapy uses focused ultrasound energy to heat deep tissues. This process lifts and tightens loose skin on the face and neck. The results of Ultherapy last about 1 year. 

  • PDO (polydioxanone) Thread Lift

The Thread Lift is another non-surgical treatment that can counteract the effects of time on the skin.   During a Thread Lift, dissolvable threads are placed below the skin and used to lift the underlying facial structure and tighten the skin.  It also stimulates collagen production, resulting in tighter skin over time. The results of a PDO Thread Lift last approximately 12-18 months. 

  • Liquid Facelift

A liquid facelift is a procedure in which dermal fillers, as well as botox, are used to rejuvenate the face.  A liquid facelift can reduce fine lines and wrinkles, restore volume in the midface and cheeks, and sharpen the jawline.  Depending on the injectables used, a liquid facelift can last anywhere from 6-18 months. 

Non-surgical facial treatments are ideal for men and women with mild to moderate skin laxity. 

Would you like to learn more about a non-surgical facelift?  Search our directory to find a practice in your area.

If you are in the New York, NY area, Anand Medical Spa is our featured practice. 

You can reach them at https://anandmedicalspa.com, or by calling 212-653-0366.

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Is SkinPen For Me?

Is SkinPen For Me?

If you would like to dramatically improve the appearance of your skin, with very little downtime, SkinPen may be the right treatment for you. SkinPen is a microneedling procedure that is virtually painless and very effective. But is SkinPen right for you.

What is SkinPen?

SkinPen is an FDA cleared microneedling device that rejuvenates the skin. It stimulates the body’s repair process, and initiates the production of collagen and elastin, thereby improving the tone and texture of the skin. SkinPen is a quick and easy in-office treatment that takes 30-60 minutes, depending on the size of the area being treated.

What is microneedling?

Microneedling (collagen induction therapy), is a skin renewal procedure that has been used for many years to rejuvenate the skin, and reduce signs of aging. During the procedure tiny needles are used to create micro-channels in the skin, and help to stimulate healing.

Is SkinPen For Me?

If you are experiencing skin concerns such as wrinkles, stretch marks, enlarged pores, scars, or skin laxity, SkinPen can correct these issues for you.

SkinPen is also a good option because it is safe, minimally invasive, and completely natural. SkinPen does not involve the use of any chemicals, toxins, or heat. The procedure simply makes microscopic channels in the skin that trigger the body’s natural healing mechanisms. After treatment the skin will appear smoothers and more youthful.

SkinPen is a versatile treatment that can be used on most parts of the body including the face, neck, décolletage, arms, legs, abdomen, and back.

Would you like to learn more about SkinPen rejuvenation treatment? 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) 245-3303.

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Can botox be used to treat headaches?

Can botox be used to treat headaches?

If you suffer from chronic headaches, and you’ve tried a variety of remedies but nothing seems to work, you may want to give botox a try. However, since botox is better known for its wrinkle smoothing properties, you may be wondering – Can botox be used to treat headaches.

What is botox?

Botox or botulinum toxin is a neurotoxin that is produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. When used in small doses, botox temporarily relaxes the muscles, and limits muscle contractions. Botox is regularly used to soften moderate to severe wrinkles on the forehead and at the corner of the eyes. It also treats muscle spasms and certain eye disorders.

Can botox be used to treat headaches?

Yes, botox was approved by the FDA in 2010 for treating chronic migraine headaches in adults. The effectiveness of botox for migraines was recognized by doctors when patients being treated with botox for other reasons, reported an improvement in headaches.

How botox helps migraines

Botox treatment for migraines consists of a series of injections made into specific areas of the head and neck. Botox blocks the release of chemicals from the nerves that would trigger pain networks in the brain. This prevents migraines from occurring.

People with chronic migraines typically have 15 or more headache days per month. After botox treatment, patients experience up to 50% reduction in the number of days they have a headache each month.

How long does botox last?

The effects of botox usually last 10-12 weeks.

Would you like to learn more about botox for headaches? Search our directory to find a practice in your area.

If you are in the New York, NY area, Anand Medical Spa is our featured practice.

You can reach them at anandmedicalspa.com, or by calling 212-653-0366.

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Does Chin Augmentation Involve Implants?

Does Chin Augmentation Involve Implants?

If you have a weak chin that makes you feel self-conscious about your appearance, you may want to consider chin augmentation surgery. Chin augmentation can give you the gorgeous chin you desire, so that you can finally put your best face forward. But does chin augmentation involve implants.

What is chin augmentation?

Chin augmentation is a surgical procedure that is done to improve the size and shape of the chin. It also defines the contours of the jawline and neck to balance out the features of the face.

Does Chin Augmentation Involve Implants?

Yes chin augmentation with implants is in fact a popular option for chin surgery. Chin implants are typically made of silicone and are available in a variety of shapes and sizes. The implants are very durable, and typically last a lifetime. Chin augmentation with implants is a quick, minimally invasive procedure that enhances the contours of the chin.

The procedure

Chin augmentation is an outpatient procedure that is done under local anesthesia with IV, or general anesthesia. A small incision is made beneath the chin and a pocket created for the implant, which is inserted in front of the chin bone. After the implant is in place, the incision is closed. Chin augmentation takes approximately 1 hour to complete.

What to expect after surgery

There is typically some swelling after chin augmentation, but downtime is minimal. Pain medication is prescribed to deal with any post-operative discomfort. Most patients are able to resume normal activities within 5-7 days of surgery (learn more).

Are you interested in chin augmentation with implants? Search our directory to find a practice in your area.

If you are in the Philadelphia, PA area, The Pennsylvania Center for Plastic Surgery is our featured practice.

You can reach them at www.drbrenman.com, or by calling (267) 214-2443.