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.
How much does the Thermage procedure cost?
In the U.S., the procedure cost may range from $1,000 to $5,000 based on the facial areas treated. Your physician will discuss his or her fees with you at the time of the consultation.
What is Botox®?
Botox® is a purified protein toxin produced by the clostridium botulinum bacteria. It has been used in ophthalmology for over 13 years, and for wrinkle therapy over 8 years. Botox has become a popular treatment for removing frown lines since it was approved by the FDA in April 15, 2002. Botox is a natural, purified protein administered in tiny injections into overactive muscles that cause frown lines. Botox blocks the transmission of nerve impulse to the injected muscles to relax to create a more natural, line-free skin surface.
What can I expect?
Botox® is injected with a tiny needle into the muscle that creates a wrinkle. It blocks the nerve impulse from reaching that area and weakens the muscle. As the muscle weakens the skin overlying the muscle relaxes and the wrinkles in the skin gradually soften and often disappear. Minor stinging may be experienced.
How long does Botox last?
Effects can last up to 4 months.
Are there side effects to this treatment?
The most common side effects are headache, respiratory infection, flu syndrome, temporary eyelid droop, and nausea. Our medical staff will carefully take you through the steps of the procedure to ensure the least amount of discomfort.
Who can use Botox?
Men and women can 18-65 can use Botox
How is the procedure done?
Botox® treatment is a very precise procedure that must be done carefully to be successful. After you've decided on the result you'd like to achieve, specific facial muscles that correspond to the areas you would like to improve are identified. After isolating these muscles, a tiny needle is used to inject a very small amount of Botox®. Essentially, Botox® will paralyze the nerve controlling a muscle, which will prevent it from contracting. Since the muscle is no longer able to move, wrinkles will disappear.
How do I prepare for this procedure?
First, your physician will take a complete medical history to determine if you are a good candidate for treatment with Botox®. Your physician will then perform a complete facial examination to determine which areas of your face may benefit from Botox®. Because Botox® can only treat wrinkles caused by muscle contractions, some facial lines and wrinkles can only be eliminated by chemical peel or laser resurfacing.
How long does the procedure take?
Botox® treatments generally take about 10 minutes and can be performed in the medical office.
What form of anesthesia is used?
None. Although some patients prefer to apply a mild analgesic cream 30 minutes before their treatment. This effectively eliminates the slight twinge that may be caused by the fine needles during treatment. Most patients find that applying any form of anesthetic is unnecessary.
Can I return home the same day?
Yes. Treatment with Botox® is a very simple procedure, which allows you to return home immediately after your procedure.
What can I expect before and after laser hair removal treatment?
Before your treatment you can prepare for laser hair removal by not waxing or plucking hairs in the treatment area for four to six weeks before your treatment-hair follicles must be present to be treated. You can still shave and, in fact, you'll be asked to shave your treatment area 24 to 48 hours before your scheduled appointment. Because laser hair removal depends on the color of your skin and hair, you should not sun tan for a minimum of six weeks before your treatment.
What is a laser hair removal treatment like?
It is a gentle process. After the area is shaved, then cleaned, then exposed to the safe amount of laser energy. The laser energy passes through the skin and is absorbed by the pigment in the hair follicle. In a fraction of a second, all of the active hair in the treated area is disabled.
After your treatment
There may be some redness or bumps immediately after the treatment, but nothing that will keep you from your daily activities. Some people apply a temporary ice pack on their treatment area. You don't need time to recover after your session, so you can participate in almost all of your regular activities immediately after your appointment. You should, however, avoid exposure to the sun for the following four to six weeks.
What should I look for in a laser practitioner?
The treatment should be performed by a registered nurse (RNs), nurse practitioners (NPs), or physician assistants (PAs) or physicians who are trained to operate a laser. Different treatment choices must be made for each patient. At Hebe MedSpa, we provide only laser trained RNs, Nurse Practitioner, or Physician Assistant to deliver high-quality care to our patients.
Are there any risks?
Laser hair removal is a safe procedure, but there are some risks. Some people may experience redness, swelling, bruising, blistering, or superficial skin erosions that are temporary and heal with time. Another risk is skin discoloration, which can last for several months or may be permanent.
Am I a Good Candidate?
While Laser Hair Removal can treat many different types of people, the best candidates have light skin and dark hair. People with darker pigmentation to their skin may find that the laser is not effective against their hair. Also, because of the laser's capabilities, light hair colors, especially gray, blonde and light red, may not respond as well to the treatment.
We would be happy to evaluate your skin and hair coloring to help determine if Laser Hair Removal would be a good solution for your unwanted hair growth. If getting rid of unwanted hair is one of your dreams, you owe it to yourself to look into the treatment and find out if you can make this dream come true.
How many treatments would I need?
Laser hair removal treats hair during its growth cycle. Since hair grows in different cycles, a series of treatments is necessary to achieve permanent hair reduction.
What are the benefits of Laser Hair removal?
Larger areas may be treated using lasers than with electrolysis, waxing or tweezing.
It combines the speed of shaving with the lasting results achieved by electrolysis.
Laser Hair Removal is effective on almost all areas of the body!
What is Microdermabrasion?
Microdermabrasion is a non-surgical exfoliating procedure that revitalizes the skin's appearance and smoothness. It is more commonly known as the lunchtime peel, as one session generally takes only 30 minutes with no recuperation time afterward.
How does it work?
A stream of very fine crystals is directed onto the skin to loosen the dead layer of skin on the surface. It then suctions away the dead skin to reveal fresh, smooth skin.
Are there any side effects?
Temporary redness and slight discomfort may be experienced.
What results can I expect?
Improving dull or uneven skin color.
Relieving clogged pores and blackheads. Softening general roughness or thickened patches of dead skin (e.g., elbows and feet). Refining the appearance of fine lines and large pores. Removing surface debris to allow better absorption of topical medications.
How soon can I see these results?
Results will be evident immediately after the treatment. Depending on the condition of your skin, treatments may vary from 4 to 6 times to achieve the best results.
Is Microdermabrasion for everyone?
Almost everyone could benefit from microdermabrasion, but patients taking certain medications or who have active inflammatory skin condition may need to postpone treatment. Our medical staff will advise you on the appropriateness of the procedure for your condition.
What is Photorejuvenation?
Photorejuvenation is the process of using light to treat facial redness and flushing and discoloration from aging and sun damage. Treatments result in consistent, visible improvement of the skin with no downtime, little discomfort, and minimal risk.
What are treatments like?
A treatment generally lasts 15 to 30 minutes. Immediately following a treatment, the skin may appear red and flushed and tiny capillaries may appear more visible. Brown spots may appear darker, but these disappear gradually in a matter of hours.
What areas can be treated?
Treatments can be applied on any part of the skin, but are especially effective in improving the appearance of the face, neck, and chest.
How soon will I see results?
After your first treatment, your skin will feel smoother and will have a more even tone. Best results are achieved after 4 or 5 treatments, depending on the condition of your skin.
What are the advantages of IPL over chemical peel?
Chemical peels will not reduce redness and flushing or dilated capillaries. Before the IPL technology came along, there was no effective treatment for flushing or facial or neck redness.
Who should get an IPL treatment?
People who suffer from Rosacea and experience flushing and redness of their skin.
People with early aging changes and sun damage who want to recover the youthful glow of their skin.
People who do not want to take the time off to heal from laser resurfacing or chemical peels.
What is Mesotherapy?
Mesotherapy is a technique which has been used in France for over 50 years, where small amounts of medication, vitamins and supplements are injected into fat and the connective tissue of the skin (called the mesoderm) for many cosmetic and medical purposes including reduction of cellulite and fat. An injection is administered just below the surface of the skin at the location of the problem area. It can be used just about anywhere on the body, but is mostly used to treat the abdomen, thighs, buttocks, knees, and ankles.
Who can have Mesotherapy?
Adults in good health between the ages of 18 - 75 are excellent Mesotherapy candidates for targeted weight reduction and cellulite elimination. We will discuss your individual medical history and address any concerns that you may have during the complementary personalized consultation session.
Who cannot have Mesotherapy?
Patients Who Are Pregnant Or Breastfeeding
Patients With A History Of Blood Clots
Patients On Multiple Medications For Heart Disease
Patients With A History Of Stroke
Patients With Certain Active Skin Diseases
Patients With A History Of Recent Cancer
Insulin Dependent Diabetics
What are the possible side-effects?
Since the amounts and concentrations of Mesotherapy medications are so small, there is little concern about absorption of the medications into the body and there have been no reports of serious side effects from Mesotherapy despite its widespread use. Swelling, redness and tenderness of the area injected are the only reported adverse effects and these vary according to the area injected, the medication injected and the amounts used. We will go over what to expect after your personalized treatment during your consultation and address any concerns you may have.
How does Mesotherapy Work?
A mixture of natural and prescription medications is injected via a tiny needle into the fat or cellulite. This actually melts away unwanted fat and the connective tissue septal bands that cause cellulite. The medications that are used in Mesotherapy melt the fat beneath the skin and shrink the fat cells in the scarpa's fascia layer. The fat dissolves and, as occurs when fat is broken down during typical weight loss, is removed from the body via the lymph channels and through the bloodstream. Treatment can result in the loss of dress sizes and inches off the waist. It can reduce fat in the hips, thighs, "love handles", back, chin "saddle bags" and lower eyelids as well as the areas of cellulite.
How soon will I see results?
It depends on the area treated. Some patients see results after one or two treatments, while other require five to seven treatments before they are satisfied. The results are typically maintained as long as significant weight is not gained.
What about side effects?
It has been shown to be extremely safe. Side effects are limited because the medications are delivered directly to the target area. This reduces the possibility of drug interactions. Localized burning and bruising is common and the area is sore for a number of days as the destruction of fat causes inflammation in the area. There is not the risk of unevenness that occurs with liposuction and it can be used to correct such problems.
What are the ingredients in Mesotherapy?
The mesotherapy injection is a solution of various vitamins, minerals, enzymes, plant extracts, anesthetics, medications and amino acids. The makeup of the solution varies depending on the needs of the patient and the effect desired while allowing for a greater level of safety when issues such as drug interactions and allergies exist.
How many treatments are required before the results are visible?
A treatment cycle could require as few as 4 and as many as 10 treatments or more depending on the size of the area being treated and the results desired.
Is Mesotherapy procedure painful?
The procedure has minimal discomfort, but if a patient is sensitive to needles, a mild painkiller, local anesthetic or numbing cream can be used. The discomfort level is often compared to that of waxing.
What is the advantage of Mesotherapy over liposuction?
The primary advantage of Mesotherapy over Liposuction is that it is a non-invasive procedure and therefore does not have the risks and downtime associated with surgery. Liposuction permanently removes the fat cells and is arguably a more permanent solution; however, it is a frequent problem with liposuction to have visibly uneven results which can be treated with Mesotherapy.
What is the recovery time?
There is no need for recovery time and you should be able to return to normal activities immediately.
How long does Mesotherapy last?
Patients who make a commitment to maintaining a healthy diet and lifestyle following treatment should see their results last. Some patients require some maintenance every six to twelve months.
What are the differences between liposuction and Mesotherapy?
Do diet pills work? YES, The Food & Drug Administration (FDA) have only two criterion for any drug approved. 1) Are they safe? 2) Do they work? Most of the medications we use have been approved since the late 50's or early 60's. All have been approved by the FDA for both safety and efficacy.
How do they work?
The main action of drugs used in weight reduction is to reduce your appetite. Therefore you eat less food.
Are they safe? YES, most of the drugs we use have been in use for 40 years or more without problems when taken as prescribed.
Are they addictive? NO, I have never seen any evidence that they are, either in my experience or in the literature.
Can I take these drugs if I have high blood pressure?
If the blood pressure is adequately controlled we have had no problems with Phentermine, Didrex, Phendimetrazine or Xenical.
Can I take these drugs if I have diabetes? YES, a nice side effect is that they may even lower your insulin or oral medication requirement for Type II diabetics. However, they are not recommended for Type I diabetes.
Does Phentermine cause heart valve damage? NO, there are no cases of heart valve disease in patients taking Phentermine. All cases have involved only the fenfluramines (Pondimin or Redux).
Also, it was not the combination of Phetermine with the Fenfluramines as originally thought. The Fenfluramines are the only diet pills which are known to cause Heart Valve Disease and have been taken off the market.
Does Phentermine cause Primary Pulmonary Hypertension (PPH)? NO, Phentermine does not cause PPH. This disease, as Heart Valve Disease, is associated with only the Fenfluramines.
Is Phentermine alone as effective as Phen/Fen? YES, but let the originator of Phen/Fen answer that. Dr. Michael Weintraub published his original work in 1992. Weintraub's premises was not that Phen/Fen was more effective, but that by using two drugs he could reduce the dose of both drugs and thus the side effects.His conclusion was: "The combination of Phentermine and Fenfluramine was as effective as the full doses of either (Phentermine of Fenfluramine) alone and resulted in fewer side effects." [Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutics, May 1992, page 581]
Who should NOT take chemical appetite suppressants?
Anyone who has an irregular heart beat, uncontrolled hypertension, angina, hyperthyroid (overactive), glaucoma or are pregnant.
Can I take these drugs if I take anti-depressants? YES, but only the SSRI varieties; Prozac, Paxil, Zoloft, etc., are okay as are the older Tryicyclics such as Elavil. You can not take these drugs if you are on a MAO inhibitor such as Eldepryl, Parnate, Marplan and Nardil.
