Reflections on Beauty

Reflections for Botox injections.

A team of scientists at Northwestern University's Feinberg School of Medicine reviewed 98 studies that examined the long-term effects of different cosmetic procedures to determine which can be deemed safe. The researchers discovered that the most safe and effective procedures include Botox injections, liposuction and laser treatment of veins and other skin conditions.

Authors of the study said that patients should be inquisitive when considering cosmetic procedures, which includes in-depth conversations with their healthcare provider.

"Patients need to be smart consumers and ask their doctors better questions such as, 'How does procedure A compare to procedure B?'" said lead author Murad Alam, M.D.

The team looked at cosmetic dermatology techniques. They found that while Botox and other injectable botulinum toxins have had their critics, studies show them to be safe.

"These have been around for 20 years and during that entire period, when an approved pharmaceutical product in approved doses is used for cosmetic purposes, there have not been any instances of serious reactions," Alam said.

Liposuction procedures using lasers or fluid injections were also found to be safe. However, the study authors noted that the long-term efficacy of these procedures is still unknown. New methods of laser liposuction tend to require less healing time than earlier techniques.

Individuals interested in laser skin rejuvenation may be happy to know that the use of infrared light or ultrasound to eliminate sagginess or wrinkles is safe.

Alam reminded patients to be careful when choosing a cosmetic procedure facility.

"Patients should get treatments from experienced practioners with access to the data and an ability to evaluate it, rather than someone at a nearby spa who just has one laser, is minimally trained and is not able to evaluate the scientific evidence but eager to use this device for every patient complaint," Alam said.

An article in Psychology Today states that in addition to choosing a trusted spa or healthcare facility, patients should be mentally prepared for a cosmetic procedure. Psychologist Vivian Diller, Ph.D. told the news source that she uses an acronym to determine whether a patient is a good candidate for cosmetic surgery: S.A.F.E., which stands for safety, affordability, for whom are they getting the treatment and expectations for the outcome.

Reflections for Restylane injections.

One of the best ways people can get a good idea of whether a cosmetic procedure is worth the time, money and recovery time is by reviewing testimonials of people who have had the minimally invasive techniques. These are typically found on the websites of accredited medical spas and facilities, as well as other resources dedicated to customer satisfaction.

Recently, cosmetic procedure review site RealSelf conducted a survey to determine the most popular procedures of 2011 and how happy patients were with the outcomes of their operations or treatments.

Administrators for the website said derriere enhancements were big last year – no pun intended.

"Anytime we see a big spike in searches at our website for a particular procedure, this points to a dramatic increase in consumer attention. In 2011 lifting and enhancing the butt topped the list, and we foresee this holding strong for 2012 as well," said Alicia Nakamoto, VP of community for RealSelf. "There are some definite pop culture cues driving this trend – take the royal wedding for example – and where the waif look was once in, women now want to know how to get a fuller backside!"

While Pippa's posterior certainly drew attention, women still appear to want fuller lips, a slimmer waist and a smooth complexion.

Lip augmentation increased in popularity by about 25 percent, and more than half of the individuals surveyed said the procedure was well worth the cost. There are many options for achieving a fuller pout these days, including Juvederm and Restylane injections.

Also popular were new laser liposuction techniques, which experienced a 28 percent hike in searches. A whopping 75 percent of patients who received the procedure said they were satisfied with their results. Obtaining slimmer thighs or a svelte waistline has never been easier, as new laser liposuction techniques can give patients maximum results with minimal scarring and bruising. The procedures work by liquefying fat before suctioning it out, making the removal of flab easier and less painful than ever before.

Botox injections appear to still be going strong, as searches for the wrinkle-smoother went up by 11 percent, and about 65 percent of patients said it was worth the cost. Botox works by temporarily freezing facial muscles which cause wrinkles, such as laugh lines and forehead creases.

Reflections for Botox injections.

The New Year inevitably brings about a plethora of 'top 10' lists, and minimally invasive cosmetic treatments are no exception. Canadian dermatologist Barry Lycka recently made his predictions for the 10 most popular industry trends for the upcoming year.

Consumers already appear to be favoring low-cost procedures that require little to no recovery time over invasive operations like surgical face lifts or tummy tucks, and there may be an even bigger demand for these treatments in 2012, according to the doctor.

Medical spas and facilities may also be seeing more men coming through their doors over the year. Previous reports have suggested that cosmetic operations are no longer a woman's game, as career-minded males are beginning to see a younger looking appearance as an edge in the workplace.

Patients may also begin eschewing scalpels and stitches in favor of laser and injectable treatments. After all, no one enjoys stitches, incisions and excessive dressing, not to mention the long healing times that invasive operations tend to require.

Healthcare providers and cosmetic professionals may also see an uptick in the use of new topical treatments, as well as a slew of new products on the market, Lycka said.

For individuals who want dramatic results, new surgical techniques may emerge to provide patients with better results and lower risks of complications.

Fans of Botox injections may have more options in 2012, as Lycka predicts that more anti-wrinkle treatments will be developed to reduce the appearance of crow's feet, laugh lines and forehead creases.

The same goes for fillers, according to Lycka. The dermatologist says that Restylane injections may also be seeing some competition on the market.

The use of lasers is also expected to rise as technologies advance. For instance, liposuction has recently been made easier than ever with the use of procedures like SlimLipo, which liquefies fat before suctioning it out. This makes for a smaller incision and less bruising.

Lycka also reported that he expects to see heated debates over the efficacy, necessity and best practices in cosmetic surgeries.

Finally, the dermatologist predicted that more physicians will be offering cosmetic procedures in this year. This may be due to the fact that patients typically pay up-front and out-of-pocket for these services, which means a potentially more fiscally sound practice.
 

Reflections for Botox injections.

In the 1960s, Botulinum toxin A was used to treat crossed eyes, as it helped to reduce the muscle spasms behind the eyes responsible for the condition. Eventually, dermatologists began to see the substance as something that could revolutionize cosmetic procedures, possibly putting an end to invasive operations or harsh chemical peels.

Now commonly known as Botox, the Allergan-produced cosmeceutical is a household name. In fact, American Health and Beauty recently reported that Botox injections were named the Reader's Choice top injectable or filler.

This is despite the arrival of rival products Xeomin and Dysport, which are now on the market.

Botox differs from fillers like Juvederm, Radiesse and Restylane because it targets the muscle movement from which wrinkles and fine lines stem. By contrast, the fillers simply plump up the skin and reduce the appearance of the signs of aging. These and injectables like Botox give noticeable results without the use of a scalpel, but individuals should consider the differences between the two before deciding which is more appropriate.

"People who are interested in non-invasive, non-surgical treatments like Botox or fillers don't really understand that they treat different things. Botox stops active expression lines, such as in the forehead, between the brows or crow's feet. Facial fillers are used to volumize and plump up areas of the skin or lips," said Texas plastic surgeon Haresh Yalamanchili.

Botox works by temporarily paralyzing wrinkle-inducing muscles for a smoother look. Dermatologists and healthcare providers report that the best results are typically seen when Botox injections are applied to the eyebrows, forehead and crow's feet, which develop at the corners of the eyes.

While it's a tried-and-true technique for minimally invasive facial rejuvenation, Botox injections have also been shown to help treat migraine headaches, excessive sweating and temporomandibular joint disorder, which is inflammation in the jaw.

Botox injections have been shown to be safe and effective, but that doesn’t mean that an individual doesn't need to do research on the product as well as medical facilities before undergoing the procedure.

It's important to have an open discussion with a healthcare provide to determine whether the treatment is appropriate for you. Additionally, this talk will help you have realistic expectation of the outcome of Botox injections.

There have been reports in the news lately about Botox parties, during which some people have received an unhygienic or inappropriately. As such, it's important to seek out an experienced, accredited professional.

Reflections for Botox injections.

In the 1960s, Botulinum toxin A was used to treat crossed eyes, as it helped to reduce the muscle spasms behind the eyes responsible for the condition. Eventually, dermatologists began to see the substance as something that could revolutionize cosmetic procedures, possibly putting an end to invasive operations or harsh chemical peels.

Now commonly known as Botox, the Allergan-produced cosmeceutical is a household name. In fact, American Health and Beauty recently reported that Botox injections were named the Reader's Choice top injectable or filler.

This is despite the arrival of rival products Xeomin and Dysport, which are now on the market.

Botox differs from fillers like Juvederm, Radiesse and Restylane because it targets the muscle movement from which wrinkles and fine lines stem. By contrast, the fillers simply plump up the skin and reduce the appearance of the signs of aging. These and injectables like Botox give noticeable results without the use of a scalpel, but individuals should consider the differences between the two before deciding which is more appropriate.

"People who are interested in non-invasive, non-surgical treatments like Botox or fillers don't really understand that they treat different things. Botox stops active expression lines, such as in the forehead, between the brows or crow's feet. Facial fillers are used to volumize and plump up areas of the skin or lips," said Texas plastic surgeon Haresh Yalamanchili.

Botox works by temporarily paralyzing wrinkle-inducing muscles for a smoother look. Dermatologists and healthcare providers report that the best results are typically seen when Botox injections are applied to the eyebrows, forehead and crow's feet, which develop at the corners of the eyes.

While it's a tried-and-true technique for minimally invasive facial rejuvenation, Botox injections have also been shown to help treat migraine headaches, excessive sweating and temporomandibular joint disorder, which is inflammation in the jaw.

Botox injections have been shown to be safe and effective, but that doesn’t mean that an individual doesn't need to do research on the product as well as medical facilities before undergoing the procedure.

It's important to have an open discussion with a healthcare provide to determine whether the treatment is appropriate for you. Additionally, this talk will help you have realistic expectation of the outcome of Botox injections.

There have been reports in the news lately about Botox parties, during which some people have received an unhygienic or inappropriately. As such, it's important to seek out an experienced, accredited professional.

Reflections for Botox injections.

Many individuals resolve to lose weight and live a healthier lifestyle when Jan. 1 rolls around. While these are great goals to set, and will certainly help you achieve a more youthful appearance, why not consider finally getting that minimally invasive cosmetic procedure you've been thinking about as well?

The New Year is a great time to consider these treatments, since you will likely be cooped up in the house as the snow falls, and will heal just in time for Valentine's Day. Moreover, if your plan is to do more yoga or hit the treadmill each day, people may chalk up your new look to weight loss rather than facial rejuvenation.

Botox has been very popular in recent years due to its effectiveness, short healing time and relatively low cost. It also has a number of purposes, from reducing the appearance of laugh lines to stopping excessive underarm sweat.

If acne scarring has been hurting your confidence, now might be a good time to consider laser acne treatment. Technology has come a long way since earlier methods, so today's procedures can quickly and effectively minimize the marks of past skin conditions.

Laser hair removal can help you say bye-bye to waxing, bleaching and shaving the upper lip or stubborn chin hairs. You may require more than one session to remove all unwanted hair, but modern lasers can provide smooth results, regardless of your skin or hair color.

The New Year may also be a good opportunity to get rid of regrettable tattoos through laser tattoo removal, especially if the ink reminds you of a past love or a time in your life that has ended.

No matter what procedure you choose, be sure to do plenty of research before going under the needle or laser.

It's a good idea to consult with a healthcare provider before choosing the right one, even if it means interviewing multiple physicians. It's better to spend your time being picky about your professional than to spend time and money fixing a botched procedure.

Check to make sure the facility or medical spa that you are going to is accredited and trusted. It may even be a good idea to ask friends and family members for recommendations.
 

Reflections for Botox injections.

Many individuals resolve to lose weight and live a healthier lifestyle when Jan. 1 rolls around. While these are great goals to set, and will certainly help you achieve a more youthful appearance, why not consider finally getting that minimally invasive cosmetic procedure you've been thinking about as well?

The New Year is a great time to consider these treatments, since you will likely be cooped up in the house as the snow falls, and will heal just in time for Valentine's Day. Moreover, if your plan is to do more yoga or hit the treadmill each day, people may chalk up your new look to weight loss rather than facial rejuvenation.

Botox has been very popular in recent years due to its effectiveness, short healing time and relatively low cost. It also has a number of purposes, from reducing the appearance of laugh lines to stopping excessive underarm sweat.

If acne scarring has been hurting your confidence, now might be a good time to consider laser acne treatment. Technology has come a long way since earlier methods, so today's procedures can quickly and effectively minimize the marks of past skin conditions.

Laser hair removal can help you say bye-bye to waxing, bleaching and shaving the upper lip or stubborn chin hairs. You may require more than one session to remove all unwanted hair, but modern lasers can provide smooth results, regardless of your skin or hair color.

The New Year may also be a good opportunity to get rid of regrettable tattoos through laser tattoo removal, especially if the ink reminds you of a past love or a time in your life that has ended.

No matter what procedure you choose, be sure to do plenty of research before going under the needle or laser.

It's a good idea to consult with a healthcare provider before choosing the right one, even if it means interviewing multiple physicians. It's better to spend your time being picky about your professional than to spend time and money fixing a botched procedure.

Check to make sure the facility or medical spa that you are going to is accredited and trusted. It may even be a good idea to ask friends and family members for recommendations.
 

Reflections for laser liposuction.

Flabby arms are famously stubborn, causing unsightliness and embarrassment no matter how much time is spent on push-ups, curls or weights. Moreover, an arm lift is likely to cause scarring and may be too extreme for men and women with just a little bit of extra skin to get rid of.

Individuals who experience this issue may benefit from laser liposuction in the arm region combined with a skin tightening procedure, such as Thermage.

"By double-downing and combining non-invasive and minimally invasive procedures, we can get good skin tightening results in those difficult areas, without significant downtime and scarring," said Louis Cole, a plastic surgeon in Atlanta.

Laser liposuction not only removes unwanted fat, but stimulates collagen production in the skin, which is known to help firm flabby skin. Cole said that it may take some time to see optimal results from this technique.

"Patients will look good at two to three days but will look even better at three to six months," said Cole.

People may be aware of a laser liposuction procedure called SmartLipo, which uses laser technology to melt fat before it is suctioned out of the body. By liquefying the fat tissue first, healthcare professionals are able to more easily remove it, leaving a smaller scar than traditional liposuction. Another technique known as SlimLipo is gaining popularity, as the wavelengths used during this procedure are better able to target fat cells, making for a safer technique and better-looking outcome.

SlimLipo is a little more exclusive than SmartLipo right now, since a smaller number of medical spas and plastic surgery centers are approved to perform the procedure. Procedures done with SlimLipo are known to give quicker, tighter and more contoured results than other laser liposuction methods.

Individuals who choose a combination of the laser liposuction and skin firming treatment may be interested to know that procedures like Thermage work by contracting collagen in the deeper layers of the skin using radiofrequency energy. In two to three months, patients will see the maximum results from the treatment, and they should last for years afterward.

People should be sure to have a thorough consultation with an accredited healthcare professional before deciding on cosmetic procedures to correct flabby arms. Additionally, they should be sure to carefully select a trusted, experienced physician.

Reflections for laser skin rejuvenation.

Men and women who spend their summers by the pool or at the beach trying to perfect their golden tan may regret those days spent baking under the sun's UV rays once the winter months roll around and that bronze glow disappears, leaving behind a wrinkled, spotted epidermis.

Perhaps next summer they will remember the sunblock, but in the meantime, they have a few options to obtain a refreshed complexion.

In addition to using a rich moisturizer on areas most affected by the sun, people may want to consider laser skin rejuvenation. One particular type of this procedure is the De-Lite Laser Treatment, available at Reflections Medical Spa in New Jersey, which is designed especially for the décolletage, the area of the chest that tends get the most sun exposure.

This laser skin rejuvenation process targets brown spots, discoloration resulting from sun damage and keratoses, which are benign growths. Additionally, the treatment may help reduce the appearance of broken capillaries, fine lines, wrinkles and rough skin.

The procedure lasts only about 20 to 30 minutes, and requires a topical anesthetic. While patients may experience slight discomfort during the laser treatment, many report having mild to no pain afterward. No recovery time is needed following laser skin rejuvenation, but you will want to ask your medical professional about post-treatment self-care. Some patients decide to take a few days of rest following the procedure.

A pre-treatment discussion is recommended as well, which is the case with any cosmetic procedure.

"There isn’t a one-size-fits-all treatment for premature aging, which is why I always recommend scheduling a consultation with a board certified physician," said Shelby Brantley, M.D., a Mississippi plastic surgeon.

The De-Lite Laser Treatment uses a combination of laser technology, and typically requires just one session.

Other treatments to reduce skin damage on the chest include intense pulsed light devices, under the brand names Starlux and Ellipse. These often require a few appointments to achieve optimal results, but recovery time is minimal.

The Erbium peel can also combat the effects of the sun using a laser that removes the top layer of skin, which allows a more youthful epidermis to appear.

Another option is the Sapphire Photo abrasion, which is a form of microdermabrasion that gently exfoliates the outer layer of the skin for a smoother looking surface.

Reflections for Botox injections.

People spend years and thousands of dollars on education in order to achieve success in the business world. But studies have shown that attractive people tend to earn more than their average-looking counterparts, so would it make sense that a Botox injection or laser liposuction may boost earning potential?

Oprah.com recently featured an article on a woman who underwent several cosmetic procedures and subsequently saw her career rise to an impressive level. The woman spoke anonymously, to retain professionalism in case a colleague or potential employer decided to Google her, about how improving her physical appearance helped her climb the corporate ladder.

The woman said that she sees her cosmetic operations as an investment.

"My recent facelift stemmed from a conversation I had with my CFO about our financial projections. He advised me that in the long run, it's critical to allocate adequate resources to asset maintenance. I can tell you that he got no argument from me," she told Oprah.com

The woman theorized that the procedures helped boost her confidence, which is something that employers look for and clients are impressed by.

GlassDoor.com reported on some of the quick fixes that may help a person make a good impression at a job interview.

According to the source, a face that is free of blemishes or acne scars tends to be looked upon favorably by others, suggesting that laser acne treatments may help a person score their dream job. Additionally, spots or discolorations caused by aging – which can be erased by laser skin rejuvenation – may have a subconscious, negative impact on a prospective employer.

Botox injections or fillers to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles may also give a person a leg up in the job market, as these treatments can give the impression of youthfulness, vitality and energy.

Other procedures that GlassDoor.com recommended were teeth-whitening, LASIK surgery and rhinoplasty. The last option is pretty extreme, so individuals should have several counseling sessions and give considerable thought to the operation before succumbing to the scalpel.

In that same vein, people should be aware that having clear, wrinkle-free skin alone may not land them their dream job. Cosmetic procedures are not a cure-all when it comes to self-esteem and life issues. However, they may be able to give secure, savvy individuals the boost of confidence they need to take the bull by the horns in the job market.