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Bridge Therapy FAQ
Bridge Therapy
How does Ultrapulse skin resurfacing work?
The UltraPulse Encore is a CO2 laser used for both light and deep laser treatments designed specifically for skin resurfacing. The laser works by emitting “ultrapulses” of light that are easily absorbed by the water in the skin. This process essentially vaporizes lines, wrinkles, scars, dark spots and other irregularities, layer by layer. Over time it also stimulates the formation of new collagen to give the skin better elasticity and support resulting in more radiant and youthful looking skin.
Can the CO2 laser technology be used for treating very mild skin conditions?
Yes. With this new laser technology, skin resurfacing is so precise that you can tailor each treatment according to the nature and extent of photodamage, wrinkling, and skin type. Both the Active-FX and Deep FX peel use the unique CO2 Lite feature which allows you to achieve a superficial laser peel with just one pass of the laser. Treatment is very safe because all laser activity is confined specifically to the epidermis, the outer most layer of skin, leaving little to no thermal injury in the dermis, the deeper layer of skin consisting of connective tissue. In addition, the laser utilizes a cooling system that minimizes thermal conduction of heat to deeper tissues which greatly reduces your recovery time.
What kind of results can I expect and how long will they last?
Laser resurfacing can restore your skin to a healthy and more youthful state, similar to that of skin that has not experienced sun damage or scarring. With proper sun protection, results typically last for five years or more.
What are the advantages of using authentic CO2 vs. erbium lasers with extended pulse widths?
A bilateral study comparing resurfacing with long pulse erbium:YAG followed by traditional short-pulse erbium ablation to UltraPulse CO2 followed by short-pulse erbium ablation (Rostan E, Goldman M, Fitzpatrick R. Laser Resurfacing With a Dual-Mode, Long-Pulse Erbium:YAG Laser Compared to the 950-µs Pulsed CO2 Laser. Am J Cosmetic Surg. 2000; 17(4):227-231.) found that there was no statistical difference in healing between the two sides and in 5 patients (26%), greater clinical improvement in periorbital lines, perioral lines, or both was noted on the UltraPulse CO2 side.
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Thermage FAQ
What is the Thermage procedure?Thermage is a safe, non-invasive, no downtime, single treatment, cosmetic procedure that is clinically proven to tighten, contour and rejuvenate facial skin to help naturally restore a more youthful appearance. The Thermage procedure is administered in a doctor's office using the ThermaCool™ system, FDA cleared for the treatment of facial wrinkles, which utilizes a unique form of Capacitive Radiofrequency (CRF) technology to tighten existing collagen and stimulate new natural collagen production. Immediate results are visible and continue to improve for up to six months. The Thermage procedure is fast and easy, and requires no downtime from normal activities. Unlike lasers, the procedure can be performed on patients of all skin color.
How does the Thermage procedure work?
The procedure works by heating deep collagen fibers in the skin and underlying tissue, while protecting the skin's surface with a cooling spray. The treatment is performed with the ThermaCool™ device. A ThermaTip, attached to a handheld device, briefly touches the skin, delivering the non-invasive CRF energy deep beneath the skin. This deep uniform heating action causes the deep structures in the skin and underlying tissue to immediately tighten. Over time, new and remodeled collagen is produced to further tighten skin and renew facial contours.
How long does the Thermage procedure take?
The Thermage procedure is a completely non-invasive, safe treatment that is performed only in a doctor's office. Depending on the size of the area to be treated, the procedure may take as little as 20 minutes or up to two hours.
How many treatments will I need?
Unlike many laser procedures requiring four or more sessions, a single Thermage treatment produces results in the majority of patients. The treating doctor will determine the course of treatment that is right for each patient, based on the patient's needs and goals.
When will I see results?
Immediate results are visible, and improve over time. Measurable tightening and contouring improvements appear gradually over a two to six month time period following a single treatment session.
Where on the face is the Thermage procedure performed?
Periorbital region: forehead and area around the eyes
Mid/Lower face: includes the cheeks, area around the mouth, jaw line, jowls, and area under the chin
Lower face/submental: includes the area around the mouth, chin, jaw line, jowls, and area under the chin
Full face: includes the periorbital region and mid/lower face areas
What does the Thermage procedure feel like?
With each touch of the ThermaTip device, the patient experiences a brief, deep heating sensation as the CRF energy is delivered to the skin and underlying tissue. This deep heating sensation is an indication that collagen is reaching effective temperatures for tightening. To protect the skin and make the treatment more comfortable, the surface of the skin is cooled before, during, and after each application of CRF energy. Patient feedback on the level of heat sensation experienced during the procedure will help guide the doctor to balance procedural comfort with maximum results. The doctor may offer light pain medications prior to treatment to minimize sensation. These options should be discussed directly with the doctor as each patient's needs vary.
Is there any special preparation or follow-up regime?
No. Unlike surgery, there is no pre-procedure preparation, such as blood work or fasting required. One can return to regular activities immediately following treatment and there is no special care after treatment. Some patients exhibit a temporary redness or minor swelling after treatment, this usually resolves within 24 hours. Good skin care and sunscreens are recommended as part of your regular skin care regimen. The only signs of treatment are naturally smoother, younger, and healthier skin.
How long will the effects of the Thermage procedure last?
The Thermage procedure immediately tightens existing collagen and stimulates new natural collagen production for up to six months following the treatment. Unpublished reports by experienced cosmetic doctors indicate that results may last for years and are based on the patient's natural aging process.
Is the Thermage procedure safe?
The Thermage procedure has an excellent safety record. With over 190,000 estimated worldwide patient treatments to date the reported incidence of side effects is less than 0.4%. The most frequently reported incidents are classified as swelling, redness, bumps, and blisters on or around the treated area. These side effects have disappeared in a few days or weeks. A rare (<0.11%) but longer lasting side effect described as a surface irregularity has also been reported. Consult with your physician regarding this and any other questions you may have on the safety record of the Thermage procedure.
Is Thermage the only radiofrequency technology on the market today?
While there are other skin care technologies that use radiofrequency energy, only the Thermage proprietary capacitive radiofrequency technology delivers deep uniform volumetric heating powerful enough to naturally tighten and contour skin and underlying tissue. Also, Thermage achieves results in a single treatment compared to other technologies requiring five or more treatment sessions.
Before carrying out any medical spa treatment or embarking on any dietary, drug, exercise or lifestyle change intended to prevent or treat a medical condition you should consult a doctor beforehand.
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Chemical Peel FAQ
I have heard there are different types of chemical peels. What are the differences?
The hydroxyacid (AHA) or Glycolic Acid peel performed in the Plastic Surgery Clinic is the gentlest of peels. It is administered in a serious of controlled applications, requires a shorter recovery period, and results in fewer complications than the Phenol and trichloracetic acid (TCA) treatments.
What improvements can I expect?
It’s important for you to discuss your expectations with your doctor. Typical results include:
- Softening of fine lines
- Diminution of coarse lines from sun damaged skin
- Increased smoothness of your skin texture
- Mild or moderate leveling of acne scars
- Lightening of pigmentation, such as brown spots due to age or hormonal changes
- Increasing the natural glow of skin
- Some minimization of skin pore size
On what areas of my face will the AHA/Glycolic Acid Peel be used?
All areas, including the forehead, brow line, cheeks, mouth lines, crow’s feet and chin.
How long will I be out of circulation after the treatments?
You can return to your regular routine the day after an AHA peel. With deeper peels, one may be out a few days to a week, at most.
Will I need more than one peel?
This depends on what the peel is being used for, the desired improvement wanted, the time to achieve it, and the acceptable amount of discomfort and downtime. Generally, the process may take several peel treatments over a period of time.
What should I do before the peel treatment?
Usually, your doctor will recommend a daily treatment regimen of skin preparation products two weeks prior to your first treatment. Your doctor will ask you to stop using some products, like Retin-A, electrolysis, waxing, depilatories, masks, and hair dyes.
How will I look immediately after the peel treatment?
Your skin may feel somewhat puffy with some redness until your skin heals itself.
What kinds of discomfort will I feel after the peel treatment?
You may experience some stinging, itching, burning, mild pain or discomfort, tightness and peeling of the skin. Peeling is expected, but not necessary for the improvement you desire. There may be some crusting and puffing, particularly if the peel has been deep. Ice packs or compresses may be used in the first 24 to 48 hours after the peel to diminish discomfort. Analgesics can be used for any mild pain encountered.
Are there any negative reactions to peel treatments?
Deeper peels carry a small risk of scarring and/or infection. Patients may also experience a flare-up of allergies, fever blisters and/or cold sores. There may also be some redness and swelling of the tissue around the mouth, and coloration or discoloration after the peel procedure. These usually resolve themselves in four weeks. To avoid possible scarring, remember not to peel, pick, scrape or scratch the skin, and not to use a mask or wear tight fitting hats or headbands over the treated area.
If additional peel treatments are required, what is the recommended time between treatments?
If you experience little discomfort with little shedding of the skin’s surface, a second peel may be done a week later. This can cause increased reactivity, so patients are advised to space treatments four to six weeks apart
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Microdermabrasion FAQ
Q. How many treatments are required?
A After studying your particular problem and your treatment goals, the Mesos physician will decide how many sessions you need. A series of treatments may be required.
Q. Is there any downtime associated with Microdermabrasion?
A. Microdermabrasion is painless and there is no downtime.
Q. What will my skin look like immediately after treatment?
A. Your skin will be pink and glowing and will feel smoother.
Q. How long does the treatment take?
A. Microdermabrasion takes between 20 and 30 minutes.
Q. Do I need to follow a special skincare regimen after treatment?
A The Mesos physician may recommend a gentle cleansing and moisturizing regime. You should also apply a sunscreen.
Before carrying out any medical spa treatment or embarking on any dietary, drug, exercise or lifestyle change intended to prevent or treat a medical condition you should consult a doctor beforehand.
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GentleWaves Frequently Asked Questions
Q. How long does a GentleWaves® treatment take?
A. The Classic GentleWaves® LED treatment takes less than one minute.
Q. How often should I get GentleWaves® treatments?
A. Since GentleWaves is non-thermal, you can be treated up to twice a week.
Q. Will the GentleWaves® treatments hurt?
A. No. Unlike lasers, GentleWaves® is non-thermal and patients are reporting no pain associated with the treatments.
Q. Can I combine GentleWaves® with other skin care treatments?
A. Yes, GentleWaves® can be administered alone or in conjunction with other treatments. Physicians have found GentleWaves® to be highly complimentary with other skin care treatments such as Botox, dermal fillers, and skin rejuvenating lasers.
Before carrying out any medical spa treatment or embarking on any dietary, drug, exercise or lifestyle change intended to prevent or treat a medical condition you should consult a doctor beforehand.
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Botox FAQ
What exactly is BOTOX® Cosmetic?
BOTOX® Cosmetic is a purified protein produced by the Clostridium botulinum bacterium. It is a nonsurgical, physician-administered treatment that can temporarily reduce moderate to severe frown lines between the brows in people 18 to 65 years of age. During treatment, very low doses of BOTOX® Cosmetic are administered via a few tiny injections directly into the muscles that cause those stubborn lines. The treatment is usually done in about 10 minutes, and no recovery time is needed. Within days, you may see an improvement that can last up to 4 months. Results may vary.
How does BOTOX® Cosmetic work?
Those moderate to severe frown lines between your brows form over time as the result of muscle activity. BOTOX® Cosmetic is injected directly into the muscles between your brows. It works by blocking the transmission of nerve impulses to the injected muscles; this reduces the activity of the muscles that cause those persistent lines to form.
When will I see results from a BOTOX® Cosmetic treatment?
Within days, you may see a marked improvement in the moderate to severe frown lines between your brows. Lines continue to improve for up to a month, and results can last for up to 4 months. In clinical trials, nearly 90% of men and women rated the improvement in their appearance as moderate to better 1 month after treatment. Results may vary.
How long does BOTOX® Cosmetic last?
Results from treatment with BOTOX® Cosmetic can last for up to 4 months. If you discontinue treatment, the frown lines between your brows gradually will look like they prior to treatment.
Who should administer BOTOX® Cosmetic?
Any authorized healthcare professional can administer BOTOX® Cosmetic, but dermatologists, plastic surgeons, ophthalmologists, otolaryngologists (ear, nose, and throat doctors), or other physicians specializing in cosmetic procedures are generally more experienced. One of these physicians can help you decide if BOTOX® Cosmetic is right for you.
Is treatment with BOTOX® Cosmetic painful?
Discomfort is usually minimal and brief. Prior to injecting, your physician may choose to numb the area with a cold pack or anesthetic cream. The entire procedure takes approximately 10 minutes. Many people are in and out of the physician’s office without downtime following BOTOX® Cosmetic treatment.
Who should not use BOTOX® Cosmetic?
BOTOX® Cosmetic should not be used in the presence of infection at the proposed injection site(s) and in individuals with known hypersensitivity to any ingredient in the formulation. Patients with neuromuscular disorders such as ALS, myasthenia gravis or Lambert-Eaton syndrome may be at increased risk of serious side effects.
Will I experience any side effects?
The most common side effects following injection include temporary eyelid droop and nausea. Localized pain, infection, inflammation, tenderness, swelling, redness, and/or bleeding/bruising may be associated with the injection. Patients with certain neuromuscular disorders such as ALS, myasthenia gravis, or Lambert-Eaton syndrome may be at increased risk of serious side effects.
Will my facial expressions continue to look natural?
Although the results are visible, a treatment with BOTOX® Cosmetic will not radically change your facial appearance or make you look as if you "had work done." The muscle activity that causes frown lines between the brows is simply reduced, so you can still frown or look surprised without the wrinkles and creases between your brows.
What will happen to the frown lines between my brows if I choose not to continue treatments?
If you do not continue treatments, the moderate to severe frown lines between your brows will gradually look like they did before treatment.
Is BOTOX® Cosmetic affordable?
When considering your facial aesthetic options, BOTOX® Cosmetic is quite affordable. According to an American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery survey, BOTOX® Cosmetic is one of the low-entry-cost facial aesthetic procedures in the United States. Like other appearance-related investments, such as hair coloring and cuts, teeth whitening, and chemical peels, the cost must be weighed relative to your expectations. Consult your doctor for further information.
Before carrying out any medical spa treatment or embarking on any dietary, drug, exercise or lifestyle change intended to prevent or treat a medical condition you should consult a doctor beforehand.
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Restylane FAQ
What is Restylane?
Restylane is an injectable gel that should always be administered by a trained, medically qualified practitioner.
Restylane enhances your natural looks by restoring your skin’s volume, creating softness and revitalizing your appearance.
Who makes Restylane?
Restylane is produced by Q-Med AB. Q-Med is a Swedish biotechnology/medical device company with headquarters in the city of Uppsala, near Stockholm, and offices all around the world. After a decade of clinical use, more than six million treatments worldwide, continuous research and safety as top priority, Restylane has today been proven to be safe, effective and long lasting. The company continues to invest in research and development in the interests of further improving patient safety.
What are the benefits of Restylane?
Restylane can instantly soften telltale aging lines or improve your looks by enhancing your natural features, such as your cheeks or lips. RESTYLANE restores volume, improves skin elasticity, and smoothes niggling lines and imperfections. Long lasting but not permanent, Restylane allows you to stay in control of your looks.
What is the clinical experience behind Restylane?
Restylane is one of the most tried and tested dermal fillers available today. It is the benchmark for clinical excellence in its field. Its safety and efficacy are clinically proven and supported by robust scientific data, spanning 10 years. Research and development is continuous.
How does Restylane work?
Restylane is a crystal-clear gel produced biotechnologically using stabilized, nonanimal hyaluronic acid and water. The hyaluronic acid is a tissue-friendly substance closely resembling the hyaluronic acid that occurs naturally in the body. By replenishing nature’s supply of hyaluronic acid, Restylane revitalizes and plumps up the skin, instantly diminishing the appearance of lines and giving a softer look.
What does Restylane treatment involve?
Restylane is injected into the skin in small amounts using a very fine needle. The gel provides hydration and structure and gives natural volume to smooth away the appearance of lines, enhance facial shape, or create fuller lips.
What areas can be treated?
Restylane treatments can be used to smooth out facial lines, create fuller lips and shape facial contours, such as cheeks and chin. It is a subtle approach to enhancing looks naturally.
Does Restylane treatment hurt?
Some people may experience the treatment as a mild discomfort. A local anesthetic cream is often used. Another form of anesthesia, a dental block, is used to numb the area when enhancing lips.
Are there any risks with Restylane?
More than six million treatments have been carried out since the launch of Restylane in 1996. Some common injection-related reactions might occur after a Restylane injection; they typically subside on their own within one or two days after injection. These reactions include redness, swelling, pain, itching, bruising or tenderness at the injection site. Inflammatory reactions may last for up to two weeks in rare cases. After a lip enhancement, your lips may be swollen for several days.
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Radiesse FAQ
Radiesse is a safe, next generation dermal filler that is aiming to become the new standard for the correction of facial lines and wrinkles, such as nasolabial folds. Years of rigorous clinical studies prove that Radiesse provides long-lasting correction of smile lines and wrinkles around the nose and mouth. Radiesse is made of unique calcium-based microspheres suspended in a water-based gel that is injected into the skin using a simple, safe, and minimally invasive procedure. Radiesse treatments deliver a natural look that lasts.
How does Radiesse work?
Radiesse is gently injected into the skin in small amounts with a very fine needle. Radiesse stimulates the body to produce new collagen. This unique response provides immediate, visible improvement of folds and wrinkles, and provides long-lasting and beautiful results.
Is Radiesse safe?
In years of rigorous clinical testing and use by physicians on hundreds of thousands of patients worldwide, Radiesse has been shown to be safe and effective. In the FDA clinical studies there were virtually no allergic reactions. There may be some normal injection-related occurrences, such as bruising, discomfort, swelling, or redness that typically subside on their own.
Am I a Radiesse candidate?
You may be a Radiesse dermal filler candidate if you are beginning to notice facial wrinkles, lines, and folds. Radiesse provides immediate and long-lasting wrinkle correction. How soon can I expect results?
How long will the results last?
The results are immediate. Radiesse continues to deliver results as it stimulates your body to produce new collagen. Results may last a year or more in many patients, which may result in fewer office visits for repeat retreatments.
How many treatments will I need?
Many patients will achieve their desired result after just one or two treatments. To ensure your satisfaction with the treatment, your physician might schedule a follow-up visit, where a touch up treatment might be recommended.
How much does Radiesse cost?
Because Radiesse treatment is customized for each patient, its cost varies. In general, the cost of Radiesse is comparable to similar procedures. And because Radiesse may require fewer offices visits for repeat treatments, you could save money and time. Consult your physician for a recommendation as to how Radiesse can best meet your individual needs.
Are there any side effects?
Normal, injection-related reactions such as mild irritation, edema, swelling, itching, discoloration, or tenderness at the injection site may occur. These conditions typically resolve themselves within one to two days.
Could I have an allergic reaction to Radiesse?
Radiesse is biocompatible. You do not need to undergo skin allergy testing, which is common with certain animal-based or permanent filler agents, prior to treatment. However, if you believe you are having an allergic reaction to Radiesse, seek medical attention immediately.
Is Radiesse permanent?
No. Treatment results are long-lasting, but not permanent. Over time the tiny calcium-based microspheres gradually break down into calcium and phosphate ions which are safely and naturally absorbed into your body, leaving your own newly produced collagen in their place.
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Mesotherapy FAQ
What is Mesotherapy?
Mesotherapy is a medical specialty that involves injecting microscopic quantities of natural extracts, homeopathic agents, pharmaceuticals and vitamins into the skin. It can be used to eliminate cellulite, promote weight loss, treat aging skin and redundant (sagging) skin, and rejuvenate the hands and neck.
What are the benefits of Mesotherapy over surgical techniques such as liposuction?
Liposuction does not treat cellulite. In fact, liposuction often causes existing cellulite to appear more prominent. Mesotherapy treats cellulite directly, promoting smoother skin and reducing fat in selected areas. Fat deposits are flushed from the body, and do not reappear in other areas, which often occurs after liposuction. Mesotherapy does not require hospitalization, general anesthesia or downtime.
Which cosmetic conditions can Mesotherapy treat?
Although Mesotherapy is used to treat a broad spectrum of injuries, illnesses and medical conditions, it is also employed to treat cosmetic conditions, including acne, cellulite, stretch marks, scars and wrinkles. It can also be used to reduce and contour fat.
How does Mesotherapy reduce or eliminate cellulite and fat?
Mesotherapy treats three factors involved in cellulite formation. Your doctor creates a specific formula to reduce the fat in your cellulite, improve impaired circulation and break down damaged connective tissue - thereby smoothing the skin's surface. Mesotherapy can treat cellulite located anywhere on the body.
What are Mesotherapy's anti-aging and skin rejuvenation uses?
Subdermal vitamin injections rejuvenate the cells, making them more active, and thereby stimulating the production of collagen and elastin. You can begin anti-aging treatments in your mid twenties to prevent wrinkles from forming. Treatments for the face, neck, arms and hands are recommended several times each year.
How does Mesotherapy promote weight loss and spot reduction?
Our customized formula prevents cells from storing fat, and helps break down existing fat cells. Spot reduction targets double chins, love handles and any other areas displaying fat pockets.
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