Archive for category: Skin Treatments

MiraDry Treatment

*This article is for educational purposes only and accurate as of October 2014. It does not form medical advice and does not relate to any treatments performed at Advanced Dermatology. Whilst we have evaluated the machine, we do not perform MiraDry treatment.

Miradry is a treatment that was approved by the FDA in January 2011 to reduce excessive underarm sweating. This procedure reduces sweat by up to 82%. Excessive underarm sweating is known as axillary hyperhidrosis. Axillary hyperhidrosis effects about 1% of adults with men and woman being effected equally. Stress and anxiety can play a huge role in hyperhidrosis, and it is believe to be a neurological response.

How does Miradry work?

Miradry works by delivering a controlled electromagnetic energy under the skin in the underarm region. Prior to treatment, the skin will be marked to help guide the treatment. Local anesthesia will be administered to keep individual comfortable. A hand held device is used to eliminate the sweat glands, while the top two layers of skin are cooled and protected. These sweat glands that are eliminated will not grow back, and the results are seen immediately. The results last since the glands will not grow back.

It is recommended that two sessions be done, spaced out three months apart. Miradry has a typical cost of $2,500 to $3,000 for two sessions, however, the price can vary due to where the treatment is being provided and who is performing the procedure. Treatment takes about 40 minutes to do.

What are the benefits to Miradry?

There are many benefits to having Miradry treatment done. One of the biggest benefits is the procedure is long lasting. This means an individual will not have to have repeat treatments to keep from excessively sweating. The procedure is very safe to do, and is non-invasive, meaning no cuts or incisions. There is no downtime associated with Miradry, as an individual can resume their daily activities after the procedure is completed, and start exercising again within a few days. Using Miradry, there has been a high patient satisfaction.

How safe is Miradry? Is there anyone that should not use this procedure?

Miradry is a very safe procedure for adults age 18 and over. It does not penetrate the skin too deep, and the electromagnetic energy is controlled. There has not been any reported incidences of fat loss or leaving a patient with loose skin. If anything, the procedure will tighten up the skin a bit. Only about 2% of sweat glands are located in the underarm region, so the body will still be able to cool itself properly. The procedure has been proven to be safe and effective in over 6,000 individuals.

An individual is a good candidate for Miradry is there are embarrassing sweat outbreaks, frequently has to apply antiperspirant, or has stained clothing due to excessive sweating. Miradry is not recommended for individuals that have a pacemaker, who need supplemental oxygen, or have a resistance of intolerance of local anesthesia.

Miradry uses anesthesia. Does Miradry hurt?

While each individual is different, Miradry has little pain. Many patients give it a pain rating of 2, based on a 1 to 10 rating with 10 being the most pain. There may be some slight pressure on the skin, and it will be slightly pulled. There will also be a warming sensation, with an occasional hot spot that only last for a few seconds.

After the treatment, the physician or dermatologist may recommend a pain reliever. Ice packs may also be used to keep the individual comfortable. There may be some localized swelling or soreness, which is completely normal and will subside in a few weeks. There may be a short term altered sensation in the skin of the underarms, but this will gradually go away.

What results should an individual expect?

Most individuals will see an improvement in the sweating as soon as the treatment is over. Underarm sweat is reduced on average by 82%.

*All product and company names are trademarks™ or registered® trademarks of their respective holders. miraDry is the trademark of the Miramar Labs Inc. Use of them does not imply any affiliation with or endorsement by them.

 Laser Liposuction Review

Laser liposuction is a non-invasive procedure which will remove unwanted fat from the body. It can be used on many areas of the body, including the face, neck, arms, back, chin, knees, thighs, and abdomen.  Laser liposuction can even be used to remove male breast excess. Those that may wish to consider laser liposuction include those that have mild to moderate skin laxity, as well as those that have excess fat in mild to moderate amounts. Those that have cellulite, scarring from a previous surgery or dimpling can also benefit from laser liposuction. Individuals should be within 30% of their body weight and be healthy. Many that diet and exercise but still can not lose the extra weight will find that they are a good candidate for laser liposuction. Laser liposuction is not intended for anyone that does not have good skin elasticity nor for those that have an excess of skin, or those that have lost an excessive amount of weight. Please take note that laser liposuction is not intended for those that would like to treat obesity, nor can it remove stretch marks or cellulite.

What can an individual expect during a laser liposuction treatment?

A low energy light will be used to break up the fat cells. There are two forms of laser liposuction. The first method utilises three steps:

1. The laser will be used to break down fat cell walls, which in turn allow fatty oils to leak out. With this method, the small blood vessels are found in the skin which the laser will coagulate, which will lead to less bruising post procedure.
2. The laser will then be used to stimulate more collagen in the superficial layer, or just under the skin. This will enhance the quality of skin in the post treatment period.
3. Cell fragments and oils will then be removed, which leads to a reduction in size.

The second method utilises only the first two steps above. In step three, the cell fragments and oils will be absorbed into the body rather than removing them. This method is usually used where skin is not as thick, such as the face, or in areas of the body that only skin tightening is needed.

What are the risks and benefits associated with laser liposuction?

Just as with any procedure performed, there are risks and benefits. Risks for laser liposuction include contour irregularities, in which the skin is not smooth like it once was and instead has lumps. More surgery could be needed to correct this issue. Sagging skin can be experienced, especially in those individuals that have little elasticity to the skin. Bruising, swelling, and general discomfort may be seen after the procedure is done. To promote healing, individuals may wish to wear a compression garment that can also decrease swelling. Mild pain medications may be prescribed for any discomfort felt.

Benefits of laser liposuction include a reduction in blood fat levels, improved mobility, improved posture, reduction in inflammatory cells, and improved self confidence.

What can an individual expect after laser liposuction?

After laser liposuction is performed, an individual can expect the area to be wrapped firmly to help reduce any swelling, bruising, and pain. As soon as an individual feels comfortable, they may return to their normal activities.

How much is laser liposuction?

Laser liposuction costs will vary based on who is performing the procedure, the clinic where the procedure is being performed, the facility type an individual utilises (hospital or cosmetic clinic), as well as the area the procedure will be performed on and the number of areas that will be treated.

Your Guide to Dermal Fillers in Sydney

Dermal fillers will help to diminish any facial lines individuals that are ageing may see. Dermal fillers can also restore fullness and volume in a face. Dermal fillers Sydney will help individuals who are seeing the sings of ageing but would like to look younger or enhance part of their face. Dermal fillers are injected into the skin in the marionette lines (lines from the corner of the mouth downwards), the nasolabial folds (the lines that are between the corners of the mouth and the nose), and oral commissures (lines around the mouth). They are also referred to as “soft tissue fillers” or “injectables”.  Dermal fillers are very effective for treating boxcar scars, icepick scars, and deep divots in the face. Those who are good candidates for dermal fillers Sydney include those that do not smoke, those that are healthy and those that have realistic goals in how they perceive themselves to look after having a treatment done.

What are Dermal Fillers in Sydney used for? How long do they last?

Dermal fillers Sydney are used for many things. They can be used to plump up lips that are thin. They are known to soften the facial creases and wrinkles. They are used many times to fill in Crow’s feet. Dermal fillers can also enhance any shallow contours and improve the appearance of scars that are recessed. They can fill out the cheeks, and help to contour the jaw line and other areas of the face. Dermal fillers last for varying amounts of time depending on where the filler is injected and what sort of dermal filler is being used.

Dermal Fillers Cost

Some dermal fillers will last up to one year. Price varies too, depending on which area is injected and which type is injected into the skin, as well as who is performing the procedure. Generally, the procedure is between $550 to $2,300.

What are the benefits of dermal fillers in Sydney?

There are many benefits to dermal fillers. Dermal fillers in Sydney can fill in wrinkles in various depths that other treatment options can not do. If there are any issues that arise with dermal fillers, an injection can be made to dissolve the filler. These non-invasive fillers rarely cause reactions and are biocompatible. They will not cause an individual to lose their ability to contract the facial muscles.

Dermal Fillers Side Effects

Just as there are upsides to a treatment, there are also downsides.  However, dermal fillers have very few side effects. Redness, swelling, bruising and mild asymmetry can happen as the inflammation is reduced. The asymmetry is very mild and can be easily corrected. While very rare, the following dermal fillers side effects have been known to happen: Hypersensitivity, Granuloma, and tissue death in the glabellar region.

Dermal fillers are often used to lift the face. Should an individual want a dermal filler performed, they should schedule an appointment with their medical practitioner. At the appointment, your skin medical practitioner will want to know the background of the individual, as well as the medical history. The individual will be able to express what they would like their face to look like, and the practitioner will develop a plan using dermal fillers. Before the procedure, a test may be performed to make sure one is not allergic to the filler being used. Those who have sensitive skin may prefer to use a natural dermal filler. During the procedure, the area will be marked out on the face that is to be injected. Before photos may be taken. The face will then be cleansed with an antibacterial agent. The dermal filler will  then be injected into the site, and cool compresses can be applied to help with any discomfort. The dermal filler can contain a local anaesthetic to help with any discomfort. Other methods to ease any discomfort might include chilling the skin with a very cold instrument or applying a numbing cream to the treatment area. The process takes about half an hour to an hour to complete, depending on the size of the area being treated. After the dermal filler has been injected into the skin, the markings will be cleansed off.  The procedure is very well tolerated in terms of pain.  Very little discomfort is felt.

A medical practitioner who knows about providing dermal fillers Sydney will be able to determine which type of dermal filler is best suited for an individual.  There are many different kinds of dermal fillers on the market today. Each is made up of a different chemical makeup.  Softer dermal fillers will be used in the lip area, where a stronger dermal filler will be needed in other areas of the facial region.

What can one expect after the dermal filler?

Afer the dermal filler is completed, some individuals may experience swelling. The skin may also feel tender. However, one can return to their normal activities immediately after the treatment. Results will be seen in as little as three days. Individuals will be able to wear makeup twelve hours after the procedure, however, it is best that after the initial dermal filler treatment, one sees how they react to the treatment. During the first twenty four hours, strenuous exercise should be avoided, as should any consumption of alcohol. For the first two weeks after the procedure is completed, the sun or UV lights should be avoided, and an individual should monitor extended exposure to extreme heat and cold. Exposure to either the sun, extreme heat or cold could result in swelling, redness and icthing that is temporary. Swelling can be reduced with ice packs.

Dermal Fillers Before and After

The results of dermal fillers is fabulous. Those using Dermal fillers Sydney will see impressive results.  Some individuals can fill in some volume on their lower jaws, which can minimise prominent chins.  Dermal fillers can also improve the fullness of hands. A fuller looking hand with more volume can be created by injecting the hands with a dermal filler. Cheeks can have fullness added back to them not only volume, but a more youthful appearance. Nasolabial folds can be less pronounced by injecting them with dermal fillers. A more youthful appearance and plumper folds will be an end result.

Questions you may wish to ask

Should you feel the need to have dermal fillers on your face or hands, there are some questions that an individual should ask his or her medical practitioner. Such questions include:

• Am I a good candidate for this procedure?
• Where will the procedure be performed? Who will perform it?
• What are the complications of having a dermal filler?
• Do you expect any complications?
• How long will it take my skin to recover?
• Were you specifically trained to do this procedure? Is anyone helping you and if so what is their training?  How many times have you performed this procedure?
• Do you have before and after photos that I can look at?
• What results are reasonable for me to expect?

Asking these questions will not only familiariase you with the dermatologist that will be performing the procedure, but it will also answer any unanswered questions you may have about dermal fillers themselves.

Dermal fillers are an excellent way to restore youth in the skin. Dermal fillers in Sydney can rejunvenate the skin, and are a very popular method for creating a fuller face.

Understanding the Fractional Laser

As skin care technology increases, more treatments are becoming available to those with skin problems, and one such procedure is fractional laser treatment. This treatment, which utilises precision lasers to target very small areas of the skin, is used to address a number of skin ailments such as acne scars, uneven pigmentation, and facial wrinkles. Fractional laser treatment is becoming more common as a non-invasive option to the facelift and other cosmetic surgeries, which can take weeks to heal and carry danger of infection and complications. This treatment may not be the best option for everyone, however, as there are several side effects that are associated with the procedure. If you have considered fractional laser surgery as a way to get rid of acne scars, wrinkles, or other skin problems, you should first understand how the procedure works and whether you are a viable candidate for this type of laser surgery.

How Fractional Laser Treatment Works

Fractional laser treatment surgery works beneath the skin, where it affects both the epidermis and the dermis. The epidermis is the outer layer of the skin that’s exposed to the environment, and the dermis is the underlying skin. Age spots and uneven pigmentation begin in the epidermis, where melanin gathers to protect the skin from UV rays, creating dark spots on face and other pigmentation issues. In contrast, the dermis is where the skin’s elastin and collagen are produced, which gives the skin its firmness and elasticity. However, as the skin ages, it loses collagen and becomes less elastic, which causes wrinkles, fine lines, and the sagging that people associate with aging.

During fractional laser treatment, the laser delivers precise and multiple beams into the skin, where it penetrates the epidermis. The cells in the treatment section are destroyed, which boosts cell turnover in the area and stimulates the growth of new collagen. In the case of acne scarring, the lasers work much in the same way to destroy the cells in scarred skin, which eventually reveals new growth underneath. Fractional laser treatment is considered safer than other wider-range laser treatments, as it can target small areas of the skin and leave unaffected areas unharmed.

 What to Expect During the Procedure

Once you are cleared for treatment by your skin care specialist or dermatologist, your treatment will take place at a clinic or in your doctor’s office, as this is considered an outpatient procedure. You should not wear any jewelry or cosmetics during treatment. A numbing cream is applied to the treatment area, which will reduce sensation caused by the lasers. After the cream takes effect, the doctor will apply a gliding gel to the treatment area in order to increase the accuracy of the fractional laser treatment.  Treatment can take anywhere from thirty to sixty minutes; after the treatment is completed, the gel will be washed away and you will be sent home to recover.

Fractional Laser Treatment Side Effects

There are a number of side effects associated with fractional laser treatment, and depending on your skin type, you may experience several of them. The most common side effects that occur with this procedure include redness, stinging, and soreness at the treatment area, as if it feels sunburned. After several days, peeling and flaking may occur as new skin is revealed; this is considered a normal occurrence, particularly if you had epidermal treatment. Some patients experience mild to moderate swelling that usually goes away on its own within 24-48 hours. If you experience any serious swelling or notice anything unusual about the treated area after your fractional laser treatment, you should contact your dermatologist immediately.