Do you feel self-conscious about your face due to sagging, wrinkled skin? At Old Town Med Spa in Chicago, IL, we have just the solution for you. Today, we’re talking about the differences and similarities of two of the most effective injectable dermal fillers: Restylane Refyne and Restylane Defyne.

What Is the Difference Between Restylane Refyne and Defyne? 

Restylane Refyne is FDA-approved to treat moderate-to-severe marionette lines and nasolabial folds. Contrastingly, Restylane Defyne is designed to treat mild marionette lines and nasolabial folds.

Everything You Need to Know About Restylane

If you have lines around your mouth and nose that you want to eliminate, Restylane may be right for you. However, you probably have a few questions. Keep reading for a closer look at what this filler is, how it works, and what to expect throughout the treatment process.

What Is Restylane? 

Restylane is a hyaluronic acid-based dermal filler designed to increase volume in your midface and lower face, facilitating a youthful, healthy appearance. Other anti-aging injectables smooth out wrinkles by immobilizing the underlying muscles.

However, this injectable fills in wrinkles to smooth them out and tighten loose skin. It is perfect for the treatment of tricky nasolabial folds because the needle used to administer the medication is incredibly fine and can produce precise results.

How Does Restylane Work? 

All Restylane formulas work thanks to their active ingredient hyaluronic acid. Hyaluronic acid is a chain of sugar molecules that your body produces naturally. This polysaccharide is crucial for your health due to its moisturizing properties. It keeps your eyes moisturized and is found in your connective tissues lubricating your joints. It is also present in your skin, keeping it hydrated, volumized, smooth, and healthy.

When hyaluronic acid is administered into the foundational layer of your skin, it provides an immediate increase in volume. However, the benefits don’t stop there. Hyaluronic acid encourages the production of extra collagen, a critical protein for the suppleness and firmness of your skin. Finally, this polysaccharide attracts and binds to an incredible amount of water so your skin becomes and stays hydrated.

Why Do Wrinkles Occur?

Numerous chemicals make up your skin. One of the chemicals found in abundance in your skin is hyaluronic acid. Other essential chemical compounds include collagen and elastin, fibrous proteins, and fibers that make up the supportive structure that keeps your skin tight, young, and healthy. This supportive structure also gives your skin the elasticity to bounce back after you emote.

Unfortunately, as you age, your skin produces these essential proteins and fibers at a reduced rate. In other words, your skin can’t bounce back after you emote. This leads to permanent facial wrinkles. Also, “permanent” wrinkles caused by volume loss appear.

What Can I Expect Throughout the Treatment Process? 

Preparing for Treatment

What’s great about Restylane Refyne and Defyne is there is minimal preparation required beforehand. Unlike other anti-aging treatments, there are only a few simple steps you must take to prepare for your injections.

For instance, you must avoid taking any blood-thinning drugs or supplements seven days before your session. This includes such drugs and supplements and ibuprofen, aspirin, vitamin E, and fish oil. You should also stop smoking and drinking for a few days.

What to Expect During Your Treatment Session

Before your treatment session, you need to come in for an initial evaluation so we can determine whether Restylane Refyne or Restylane Defyne is right for you. Then, we will review your health history and current health to ensure you are currently healthy enough to qualify for this treatment. Once we have developed your customized anti-aging treatment plan and answered any questions you have, we will schedule your injections.

On the day of your session, we will clean your skin thoroughly to remove any oil or dirt that may be on your skin. Then, we will apply a topical anesthetic if you don’t want to feel the medication being administered. However, we assure you that the injections are not painful due to how fine the needle is. Once your skin is prepared for treatment, we will administer the medication into several strategic locations in each area of concern.  

What to Expect After Treatment

After your session is over, for the most part, you can do whatever you want. Since this treatment isn’t invasive, there is no lengthy recovery period, and there is almost no downtime. You are free to return to work immediately. However, if you have some PTO saved up, you can also drive yourself home and spend the rest of the day relaxing happily.

There are only a few restrictions you should adhere to following your treatment for the best results. For example, you should avoid performing any vigorous activity and wear sunscreen diligently when you have to spend time outdoors. Also, you should avoid anything that will make you sweat, such as visiting a steam room or dry sauna. Besides that, you are free to do whatever your heart desires.

Benefits of Restylane Treatments

You’ll Feel Better About Yourself

We all suffer from the side effects of aging. We all wake up one day and notice sagging skin, lines, folds, and wrinkles. Unfortunately, this often causes people to feel self-conscious. Luckily, with Restylane injections, you don’t have to worry about how old your lines and folds make you look. You can restore your youthful visage quickly and enjoy a youthful visage for months to come.

You’ll See Rapid Results

Remember, hyaluronic acid injections provide an immediate increase in volume. If you’re using Restylane Defyne to target mild nasolabial folds and marionette lines, you may be satisfied with the results of your treatment immediately. If you’re using Restylane Refyne to target moderate or deep nasolabial folds and marionette lines, you will feel better about your appearance as soon as your treatment session is over.

However, you should keep in mind that the best results have yet to come. The extra hyaluronic acid in your skin encourages extra collagen production. The results of the extra collagen production will become apparent just one to two weeks after your treatment, and you will feel so self-confident you may decide to sleep in and go to work without makeup. The best part about the extra collagen production is it helps the results last longer.

You’ll Enjoy Long-Lasting Results

Your skin metabolizes hyaluronic acid fairly quickly. However, it doesn’t use up collagen nearly as quickly. Therefore, the results of this treatment will last for 12 to 18 months. Also, the results fade slowly once a significant amount of the collagen has been metabolized. That gives you several months to schedule a follow-up appointment once you notice your results fading.

You’ll Rest Easy Knowing This Treatment Is Safe

Another incredible benefit of Restylane treatments is they are completely safe. Some cosmetic procedures are effective anti-aging tools, but there is a lot of risk associated with them. Even worse, the preparation before and recovery following some cosmetic procedures are intense. Also, other anti-aging injectables contain ingredients that provide effective results but aren’t great for your skin.

On the other hand, the hyaluronic acid in Restylane formulas is bioidentical to the hyaluronic acid your skin produces. Your skin won’t be able to tell the injected hyaluronic acid came from an outside source. Furthermore, clinical trials have proven all Restylane formulas are safe, and they have earned full FDA approval.

You’ll Probably Qualify for Treatment

Another downside to cosmetic procedures is the qualification requirements are extremely high. On the other hand, most people qualify for Restylane treatments. You have to be in fairly good health, but if you’re not pregnant, breastfeeding, or trying to become pregnant, there is an excellent chance you will qualify.

Remember, we will discuss your current health and medical history during your initial consultation to ensure this treatment is right for you. You must be completely honest with us about your health and the medications you are currently taking. You may qualify for this treatment, even if you have certain medical conditions if you are healthy enough to stop taking certain medications for a few days.

Discover How to Achieve Your Ideal Aesthetic Today

If the signs of aging your face is showing are caused by volume loss, Restylane Refyne and Restylane Defyne may be perfect for you. These injectable dermal fillers safely and quickly eliminate wrinkles and provide results that last for months. To discover how to reverse all of your signs of aging, contact us today at Old Town Med Spa in Chicago, IL to schedule your initial consultation.

As you get older, you may begin to notice some significant changes to your skin and overall appearance. Wrinkles and fine lines may start to show up, especially around the eye area. If you’re looking for a way to get younger-looking skin, then at Old Town Med Spa in Chicago, IL our Belotero treatments could be the perfect solution for you.

How Long Does Belotero Last Around the Eyes?

If you’re seeing wrinkles around your eyes, then you may not be satisfied with the way you look. You might feel self-conscious about the crow’s feet that have appeared in the outer corners of your eyes, or the general sagging of the skin in the area.

If that’s an issue you’re currently facing, then getting Belotero may help. This is an effective hyaluronic acid-based dermal filler that will help add fullness back into the area and smooth out the lines that may have started to appear around your eyes. One of the main benefits is that it’s also a long-lasting solution. You can expect your results to last for up to a year. That’s longer than many other injectables, including other hyaluronic acid-based ones.

Everything There Is to Know About Belotero

If you’re looking for a safe way to get rid of wrinkles on your face, then this could be the right product for you. When you receive this injectable, you’ll see a noticeable difference in your appearance.

Here, we’ll discuss everything that you should know about this filler before booking your consultation with us.

What Causes Wrinkles?

The first step to understanding a product like this filler is to understand why our skin acts the way that it does. Over time, it’s normal and expected that your skin will begin to wrinkle. This is because of the chemicals that make up your skin, like the proteins collagen and elastin. While they may be abundant in your youth, you’ll find less and less of them as you get older.

These proteins give your skin its structure as well as its ability to stay elastic and smooth back into place after you’ve made facial expressions. As you get older, your skin becomes less strong and more susceptible to damage. All of this combined will result in your skin beginning to wrinkle and lose fullness, making you look older.

Why Is the Eye Area So Prone to Wrinkling?

While the skin on all already of your face will lose elastin and collagen, some parts seem to be more prone to wrinkles than others. The eye area especially can be one of the first places on your face to gain wrinkles.

That’s because the skin around your eyes is generally thinner than the skin on the rest of your face. That, in turn, means that it will develop fine lines faster than other parts of your face. As you lose volume, you’ll also find that your eyes look hollower, which can make you appear lifeless.

What Does Belotero Do?

This filler’s main ingredient, hyaluronic acid, is a sugar that is naturally found in your body. There are amounts of it in your skin, your connective tissues, and in your eyes. However, as you age the amount of hyaluronic acid in your skin will get lower. This injectable will add more to your skin, which can benefit you in a variety of ways.

First, the hyaluronic acid will bind to moisture molecules, meaning that it helps to keep the area where it’s been injected hydrated and full. The sugar will also stimulate your body’s production of collagen, helping your skin’s structure to once again strengthen. This injectable can be used on all areas of the face and is especially effective for areas like the eyes where the skin is thinner.

The Types of Belotero

This filler isn’t just one standalone injectable. It’s actually a collection of different injectables, all of which will do different things on your skin.

Depending on what areas you’d like to target and what you’d like your results to look like, you’ll receive one or more of these types:

Soft

This type is especially effective for filling in the eye area. It’s designed specifically for fine lines, which makes it a great option for candidates looking to get rid of crow’s feet. It will also add some fullness back into the area, allowing your eyes to appear brighter and fuller.

Soft can be used for other areas of the face as well. It can target fine lines that may appear on your forehead and around your mouth.

Lips Contour and Lips Shape

If you have thin lips, then that can make you look much more serious than you really are. Lips Contour and Lips Shape will help put fullness back into your lips for a plumper, more youthful look.

It can also help you add some definition to the shape of your lips.

Volume

As you get older, one of the side effects of losing the collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid naturally present in your skin is that this will take away a lot of the volume in your face. A loss of volume makes your face appear hollow and can make you look much older.

Volume, as the name implies, will put fullness back into the areas where it’s most common to have a loss of volume due to aging. This includes your cheeks, temples, and your chin.

Balance

While this product is great for treating fine lines, it can also be used for deeper wrinkles that you might find on your face. Balance is especially effective for moderately deep lines.

Some of the areas you can target with Balance include wrinkles and lines around your mouth, laugh lines, and marionette lines.

Intense

If you have very deep lines on your face, then Intense can help treat them. This type of Belotero is best for severe wrinkles on areas of the face where the skin is a little thicker.

If you have very deep marionette lines or marionette lines, then you can diminish their appearance or even get rid of them entirely with Intense.

What Is Getting Treatment Like?

Are you considering receiving this treatment to help get rid of the lines and wrinkles on your face? Our clinic is clean, safe, and welcoming. Dr. Nael Gharbi and Dr. Shazel Gharbi along with their team are ready to get you the effective results you’re looking for.

Remember to book a consultation with us to learn more about how this filler can help you and your individual needs. In the meantime, here’s an overview of what a typical treatment looks like.

The Consultation

Before we make your appointment, we’ll begin with a consultation. During this time, we’ll discuss what areas you’d like to be treated. We’ll also talk about what your desired results are. This gives us the chance to determine which products should be used and in what areas of your face. We will also ask about your medical history to help ensure this is the right treatment method for you.

If you have any questions or concerns about the treatment, this is a great opportunity to ask them. Don’t be afraid to bring up anything on your mind. Our goal is to help you feel at ease during every step of the treatment process, and we’re ready to address any concern you have.

How to Prepare

Before coming in for your treatment there are a few things you’ll need to do to prepare for it. Mainly, you’ll want to avoid certain things to help prevent any bruising from occurring during the treatment and to make it as effective as possible.

Don’t take any medications or supplements that act as blood thinners. You should not take products like aspirin, ibuprofen, and certain anti-inflammatory drugs. During the 24 to 48 hours before your treatment, don’t consume any alcohol and avoid smoking.

The Treatment

When you visit us, you’ll receive your treatment in a clean and relaxing environment. Before we can begin with the injections, we’ll need to make sure that your skin is properly cleaned. Once this is done, we can begin applying the product.

If you’re concerned about pain, this filler contains lidocaine which is a painkiller. You can also request to have a topical numbing cream applied for added comfort. Once your skin has been prepared, we can start applying the injections. We’ll use numerous strategic injections to apply the product using an extremely fine needle. The entire process is very fast, generally taking less than an hour.

After the Treatment

Once your treatment is done, there are a few things you’ll need to take care of to ensure your treatment is effective. Make sure you avoid staying out in direct sunlight and try not to perform any strenuous physical activity. You should also keep from drinking any alcohol for the next day or so.

You’ll receive a full list of instructions from us after your treatment is done.

The Benefits of Belotero

If you’re thinking of receiving this treatment, there are several benefits you can expect. First and foremost, you’ll look younger and healthier with this filler applied. It will put fullness back into your face, giving you a more youthful and brighter appearance.

This filler will also look entirely natural, which helps you avoid awkward questions about the work that you’ve had done. You can also expect long-lasting results, with most candidates being able to enjoy theirs for up to a year.

Am I a Candidate?

Wondering if you might be a good candidate for this treatment? Almost anyone in good general health who is concerned about the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines on their face could be a candidate to receive this filler.

This is an especially good option for those looking to fill in fine lines around the eyes, as the gentle Soft formula is designed for areas where the skin is quite thin. As long as you are overall healthy, are not pregnant or breastfeeding, and have not shown any negative reactions to other fillers in the past, this could be the right product for you.

Get the Long-Lasting, Natural Results You Want

Does this sound like the perfect solution for your cosmetic concerns? Our clinic is ready to help you. When you visit us, you’ll receive this extremely effective and natural-looking treatment in a safe and comfortable environment. Would you like to learn more about how Belotero can help you? Get in touch with us at Old Town Med Spa in Chicago, IL today.

For over a decade, CoolSculpting has been used to remove unwanted pockets of excess fat non-invasively. Otherwise referred to as cryolipolysis, this FDA-approved treatment has been held as the gold standard of non-invasive body contouring. Today, our experts at Old Town Med Spa in Chicago, IL are discussing how much fat you can expect to lose after this treatment and much more.

What Is CoolSculpting?

As stated previously, cryolipolysis is an FDA-approved fat removal treatment. It is similar to liposuction in that it can remove around a quarter of the fat cells in a targeted area. However, it differs from liposuction in many ways. For example, rather than suctioning fat cells out of the treatment area, your lymphatic system flushes the destroyed fat cells out over time.

How Much Fat Can You Lose With CoolSculpting?

Typically, you can expect the removal of 20 to 25% of the fat cells in the targeted area during each CoolSculpting session. That said, the size of the targeted area affects the amount of fat that can be removed from a single session significantly.

How Does the Size of the Targeted Area Affect the Efficacy of Each Treatment?

The larger the targeted area is, the less total fat will be removed per session. For instance, roughly 20% of fat cells can be removed from the back in a single session. On the other hand, 26% of fat cells can be removed from the abdominal region in a single session.

How Much Fat Can You Lose From Smaller Areas?

If your goal is to eliminate unwanted fat from a small body region, like the backs of the knees or the underarms, you can remove up to 80% of the localized fat cells in a single session. You are more likely to eliminate 4/5 of the localized fat cells if most of the fat in the area is near the surface of the skin.

During your primary evaluation, we will determine the amount of fat you have in each of your trouble regions and let you know how much fat you can expect to be removed during a single treatment session.

How Much Fat Can Be Eliminated With Several Sessions?

Each cryolipolysis session will remove between 20 and 80% of the fat cells in the area targeted for treatment. Therefore, if your first session removes a quarter of the fat cells in the targeted area, your second session will remove roughly 25% of the remaining 75% fat cells.

In other words, you will lose an additional 18.75% of the fat cells that were in the targeted area before your first session. In total, after two treatment sessions, you will lose approximately 43.75% of the fat cells in a fairly large treatment area.

How Much Weight Can YOu Lose After Cryolipolsyis?

It is crucial to understand cryolipolysis is not a weight loss treatment. While you can lose a large percentage of fat cells in the treatment area, you shouldn’t expect to lose too much weight. If you have 10 pounds of abdominal fat and 26% of the fat cells in the area are removed, you will lose approximately 2.6 pounds of fat. That said, you shouldn’t expect to see your scale move as soona s your session is over.

While this treatment freezes your fat cells to death, they are not suctioned out during your treatment. Rather, your lymphatic system will process the dead fat cells for one to three months. It won’t be until all of the fat cells are processed that your final results will become apparent. In other words, if you have a single cryolipolysis session, you should anticipate losing roughly eight-tenths of a pound monthly for three months.

How Many Inches Can You Lose With Cryolipolysis?

There are a number of factors that affect how many inches you should anticipate losing with cryolipolysis. The size of the area targeted for treatment is the most significant factor that affects how many inches you should anticipate losing. You shouldn’t expect to lose more than half of an inch if you are targeting a small area for treatment. Between two and three inches of fat can be eliminated if a large area, like the chest or abdominal region is being targeted.

How Long Do Cryolipolysis Results Last?

Depending on the results you are considering, the results of CoolSculpting are permanent or semi-permanent. For instance, this body sculpting treatment doesn’t just kill fat cells by freezing them. It also eliminates inches from the targeted regions and results in a noticeable, albeit small, amount of weight loss. Here’s a closer look at the longevity of the treatment results you can expect.

The Durability of the Fat Removal Results

The fat removal results of this body sculpting treatment are permanent. By the time you reach the age of 25, your body has stopped growing new fat cells. Thus, if you’re at least 25 when you receive your cryolipolysis treatment, your body will not replace the fat cells that were frozen to death and flushed out by your lymphatic system. That said, it is possible for the fat cells that remain after your treatments to store energy in the future.

The Durability of the Contour Improvement Results

If you can keep your weight from fluctuating more than 10 pounds above your post-treatment weight, you can expect your contours to remain improvd. There are certain medical conditions that result in your body storing abdominal fat. However, usually, your genes determine where your body stores excess energy. If you remove unwanted fat from your upper arms and underarms, there is a good chance you would store adipose tissue in those regions if you gained weight after treatment.

Depending on where you store body fat, you may notice you’re putting on weight after gaining six pounds or 20. The more evenly throughout your body your fat is distributed, the more weight you will gain before you notice the changes in your body. If most of your excess energy is stored in your lower extremities or abdominal region, you may catch your weight gain before you’ve gained 10 pounds.

How Cardio Can Help You Maintain the Results of Your CoolSculpting Treatment

If you want to keep off the frozen away inches and pounds for life, you need to consume no more calories every day than your total daily energy expenditure. Most days, eating at maintenance may be a breeze. However, life often throws curveballs that make weight maintenance difficult. If you feel like life is throwing you a new curveball every weekend, you don’t have to skip every important social event planned around food and alcohol.

Instead, you can find a form of cardio you enjoy and make time to make it a regular part of your life. For example, swimming and indoor rowing are great, accessible ways to get a convenient full-body workout. A cycling club is a great way to make new friends and keep your quads in killer shape. Take the time to discover at least one or two forms of heart-healthy fitness you enjoy and can see yourself sticking to for decades.

How Anaerobic Exercise Can Help You Maintain Your Results

Notably, building muscle mass is an incredibly simple, reliable way to help you maintain the results of your treatment permanently.  Approximately, muscle is 2.5 times more metabolically active than adipose tissue. In other words, you would need 200 fewer calories daily if you lost 10 pounds of fat.

If you gained two pounds of muscle and lost 10 pounds of fat, you could continue eating the same number of calories as you usually do and maintain your weight. For the sake of your health and fitness, we strongly recommend at least two anaerobic workouts weekly. Anaerobic exercise is extremely beneficial, even if you just want to maintain the muscle mass you already have. Additionally, resistance training is very beneficial for the health of your bones.

Who Is a Candidate for CoolSculpting?

If you are neither pregnant nor breastfeeding and you are not trying to become pregnant, there is a very good chance you will be considered a good candidate for this non-invasive body contouring treatment. However, this treatment isn’t the ideal fat removal treatment for everyone. If you have certain medical conditions, such as Raynaud’s syndrome, a different aesthetic treatment may be more appropriate for you.

You Believe Weight Maintenance Is Achievable

To reiterate, your contours will remain improved as long as you maintain your weight. If you have repeatedly gained and lost the same weight, consider waiting to get treatment until you can work with professionals who can help you maintain your weight for life.

Your Expectations About the Results Are Realistic

It is extremely important to have realistic expectations regarding the results of this treatment to be considered an ideal candidate. Remember, this is a body contouring treatment. It is not a weight-loss treatment. Thus, you should wait until you are at or near your ideal weight to consider this treatment.

If you are happy with your weight or within 30 pounds of your goal weight, you should strongly consider this treatment to enhance your contours. Note, if you still have 30 pounds to lose, you may be considered a good candidate for this treatment. That said, the best candidate for this treatment is within 10 pounds of his or her target weight. Make healthy, sustainable weight loss your priority if you are over 30 pounds from your goal weight.

You Haven’t Been Diagnosed With an Autoimmune Disorder

Remember, the FDA has approved this treatment for most healthy adults. That said, if you have been diagnosed with an autoimmune disorder, such as lupus, that results in excessive weakness or discomfort, you will not qualify for this body contouring treatment. Additionally, you will not be considered a good candidate for this treatment if you have a medical condition that makes you particularly sensitive to cold temperatures.

Achieve the Body You’ve Always Dreamed About

Today, CoolSculpting is the ideal non-invasive fat removal technique. One day, it may be seen as the gold standard in fat removal techniques. This treatment can eliminate between 1/5 and 4/5 of the fat cells in the treatment area depending on the size of the targeted region. As long as you can maintain your new body fat percentage, your contours will remain desirable.

Schedule your initial consultation at Old Town Med Spa in Chicago, IL today to find out if CoolSculpting is right for you. We can’t wait to meet you and help you achieve the contours you’ve always dreamed of.

What Is Emsculpt NEO?

Patients love this treatment system because it gives them control over the problem areas they’ve been struggling with. This revolutionary treatment system combines the power of high-intensity focused electromagnet energy and radiofrequency energy in a way that destroys fat cells while also developing muscle strength. It gives patients who undergo a series of easy 30-minute treatments a slimmer, more defined figure.

During treatment, an external applicator is used to direct energy toward your areas of concern. This energy causes your muscles to contract, much like they do when you’re exercising. During a single treatment, your muscles will contract as many as 24,000 times, just as they would if you were doing 24,000 lunges. The results you see from this treatment are similar to the results that that level of physical activity would normally deliver.

Emsculpt NEO is an FDA-approved treatment for the following areas of the body:

• Abdomen
• Buttocks
• Thighs
• Arms
• Calves

How Does This Treatment System Work?

Emsculpt NEO takes the work out of getting in shape. This treatment system encourages your body to go through the muscle contractions it would have during a rigorous workout, but you’ll spend the time during your appointment reclining and relaxing. You may feel the muscle contractions as they take place, as well as subtle warmth. Many patients compare the experience to a hot stone massage.

Who Is a Candidate?

You Have a Body Mass Index No Greater Than 35

Some body-contouring treatments on the market are best suited for patients with a body mass index of 30 or lower. This treatment, however, is an effective option for patients with a body mass index of up to 35. That means this treatment system can be effective on a broader range of patients and can be used to more dramatically slim down your physique.

You’re Not Just Concerned About Fat

One of the big advantages of this treatment system is that it does far more than whittle away unwanted fat. It also builds muscle definition, even developing six-pack abs in some men. If you want to slim down while also developing a muscular, cut look, Emsculpt NEO is a terrific option.

You Don’t Want an Extended Recovery Period

Convenience is a hallmark of this treatment system. Although most patients benefit from a series of at least four treatments, each treatment is brief, comfortable, and requires no recovery period. Because no anesthesia is involved, patients can get right back to their regular schedules after treatment. Many even book their appointments during their lunch hours.

You Embrace Healthy Living

Although this treatment can produce impressive results, it will be up to the patient to maintain those results with a healthy lifestyle. But many patients are so motivated by their results that they’re eager to exercise and eat healthfully. Once you’ve undergone this treatment, you may find yourself naturally gravitating toward being more active.

You Don’t Have Tattoos, Certain Implants

This is a versatile treatment that can be safely and effectively performed on almost any patient. However, it is not an ideal treatment for those with metal implants in the area of the body that is being addressed. This treatment is also not a good option if the patient has tattoos in the area of concern.

What Results Does It Offer?

We know you’ll be eager to see results, and this treatment system delivers them. Patients who have had four treatments see a 25 percent increase, on average, in muscle mass and a 30 percent decrease in fat. Emsculpt NEO also tightens skin, leaving the treatment area firm and rejuvenated in appearance. Most patients see their full results in about four weeks.

Treatment Q&A

Is This a Cellulite Treatment?

Emsculpt NEO is not intended to be used as a primary treatment for cellulite. However this treatment system can improve the appearance of dimpled, rumpled, cellulite-ridden skin by developing muscle tone and getting rid of unwanted fat.

Do Men Ever Take Advantage of This?

Yes, men are just as concerned as women when it comes to getting their bodies in shape. These treatments are a great option for both male and female patients.

How Does This Compare With Regular Emsculpt?

Emsculpt NEO is a more sophisticated and advanced version of the original Emsculpt that won FDA approval in 2018. EmSculpt initially used only high-intensity focused electromagnetic energy, but Emsculpt NEO also incorporates radiofrequency, which maximizes the results patient see.

Can I Combine This Treatment With Other Body Contouring Services?

Yes, our practice offers several body sculpting treatment systems, including Coolsculpting, TruSculpt ID, Vanquish Body Sculpting, and liposuction. Each of these treatments works in a different way to sculpt and refine your physique. Many of our patients find that they get their best results by combining treatments. Once we’ve had a chance to meet with you and evaluate your aesthetic concerns, we can design a custom treatment plan for you.

Why Should I Choose Old Town Med Spa for This Treatment?

Our founders and medical directors, Drs. Nael Gharbi and Shazel Gharbi, are a key reason why you should choose our practice for this treatment. The brother physicians are top cosmetic surgeons. We are also a convenient option. Our practice has locations in Bucktown, Lincoln Park, and North Sedgwick Street.

It’s Time To Say Goodbye to Those Problem Areas

If you’re tired of treatments, diets, and exercise programs that don’t deliver results, it may be time to give this cutting-edge treatment system a try. Emsculpt NEO can help you shed fat, build muscle definition, and finally get the physique you’ve been working toward. What are you waiting for?

It wasn’t that long ago that removing a tattoo was a long and often painful process. Invasive excision surgery left scars and was basically only an option if you absolutely HAD to get rid of that tattoo. Those days are over, and good riddance. These days, tattoo removal with laser technology is fast and simple. At Old Town MedSpa in Chicago, IL, we have the solution for getting rid of your tattoos: no matter how long you’ve had them or what color they are.

How Long Does It Take to Remove a Tattoo?

It’s not possible to tell you exactly how long it will take to remove your tattoo, and if anyone promises to give you a timeframe without consultation, you should look elsewhere for the help you need. Professionals know that every tattoo is different.

The time it takes to get rid of your tattoo will depend on the depth of the pigment, the size of the tattoo, your age and general health, and precisely what you’re looking for. Do you want to remove an entire tattoo completely, or do you want to just get rid of part of it? Do you want to dim a tattoo so you can get another one on top? These questions are important, and the answers will be a factor in how long your individual case takes.

In general, know that you’ll typically need several treatment sessions and that the younger and healthier you are, the faster it will go. The other good news to know is that you’ll see a difference after your first session. Today’s lasers are more efficient and faster than ever before.

How Does It Work?

In the past, removing a tattoo required surgery or carbon dioxide lasers, which were inefficient and often left significant scarring behind. Today, lasers are fast, safe, and much less intrusive.

Step 1

The first step in the process takes place when the laser energy penetrates the outer layers of your skin and breaks up the tattoo ink. We can adjust the laser light in such a way that it does not hurt your skin–it simply passes through. The laser heat is absorbed by the colors in the ink pigments. As the ink pigments in your tattoo absorb the heat, they shatter into even smaller pigments.

Step 2

What good is it to have your ink particles shattered into smaller pieces? From the moment you first got your tattoo, your body got to work trying to remove it. Your immune system recognizes the ink as an invader and attempts to absorb and dispose of it, just as it would with a virus or bacteria.

However, the ink particles are too large: your body’s macrophages aren’t capable of carrying them away. That is, until you make them smaller! The next step in your tattoo removal process is to give your immune system some time to grab those particles and get rid of them.

Step 3

In the next step, you return to our office so we can give you a second treatment. Why can’t we get it all in one treatment? Think of the layers of ink in your skin like the leaves on a tree. If you wanted to plant sun-loving flowers in your yard, you couldn’t put them under the tree because the leaves would block the light and heat from the sun.

In your tattoo, the upper layers of pigment are “shading” the lower layers. We have to break up the upper layer, allow your body time to get rid of it, and then we can target the lower layers.

FAQ About Tattoos and Tattoo Removal

What Is In Tattoo Ink?

Tattoo ink is made of a colorant, like a dye or a pigment, with a carrier solution. This carrier solution might be alcohol, water, glycerin, or something else. Certain carriers are more effective at protecting your tattoo from your immune system. In general, the poorer the quality of the tattoo, the faster you can get rid of it. Of course, poor-quality tattoos also start to look bad a lot sooner than those of better quality!

Can You Explain the Immune Response a Bit More?

Your immune system isn’t deliberately trying to interfere with your bodily aesthetic. It’s designed to protect you from any “intruder” into your body, and it simply can’t distinguish between the intruders you don’t want, like a microorganism, and the ones you do want, like tattoo pigments. As soon as your body notices an invader, it sends white blood cells to absorb the intruder and destroy it. Ironically, though, the only reason a tattoo remains permanent is because of the immune system!

Your body’s white blood cells attempt to absorb the tattoo ink particles, but because they’re unable to do so, they just stick around until they die. As each layer of immune cells dies around the tattoo, a new layer comes to keep up the attack. This process is continuous, and your immune system effectively keeps your tattoo in place. If it weren’t for the immune response, your tattoo would gradually spread out.

What Kinds of Lasers Are There?

There are a couple of laser options, and the laser used plays a large role in how long a session takes. To effectively treat your tattoo pigment, but also keep your skin safe, you have to use a laser that features short pulses. Pulses should be less than 30 nanoseconds. However, you also need to be able to adjust the length of the pulses, within the safety margins, to effectively target different color tattoo inks.

Certain colors will absorb certain laser wavelengths better than others. The two primary types of lasers are nanosecond and picosecond lasers. In general, you’ll need a picosecond laser to target brighter, lighter colors. Nanosecond lasers work better on dark pigments. We use a combination of treatments to get you the best, fastest results based on your tattoo.

How Many Sessions Will It Take?

As stated, laser tattoo removal has to work in phases. You need to remove the top layers of color so that the laser light can go deeper and reach the layers beneath. You will notice a difference very soon after your first treatment, but then you’ll notice the fading stops. At that point, all the upper layers of pigment have been removed, and it’s time to go after the deeper ones.

Depending on your health, you’ll need several weeks between treatments for your body to accomplish all this. In general, the bigger, denser, and lighter your tattoo, the more treatments it will take. The smaller, thinner, and darker it is, the fewer treatments you will need. Ironically, the better the tattoo’s quality, the more treatments you will need, too. Of course, that also means that if you got stuck with a tattoo from a poor artist using inferior inks, it’s easier to get rid of it.

How Does the Color of the Tattoo Influence the Number of Sessions?

Black tattoos are the easiest to remove. The black ink easily absorbs light of all wavelengths, so it takes very little calibration for them to be effective and the ink breaks up very quickly. If you have a tattoo with many different colors in it, we’ll have to fine-tune the calibration for each separate color. This means the process will take a bit longer.

Does My Skin Color Matter?

The good news is that we can treat any skin color with our advanced, state-of-the-art lasers. The not-as-good news is that your skin color relative to the tattoo color can affect how long the process takes. The greater the contrast between the color of your skin and the color of the tattoo, the faster and easier the process will be. If there’s not much contrast in color, we have to go more slowly and take extra sessions to avoid causing any skin discoloration.

How Does My Health Affect the Process?

The younger your skin, the more resilient it is. Mature skin simply doesn’t repair as quickly, and as we age, our immune systems also slow down. The younger you are when you have tattoo removal, all other things being equal, the faster your immune system will be able to deal with the fragmented ink particles.

You’ll have the best results if you get treatment when you are feeling well and avoid getting treatment if you’re fighting an illness or infection. You can also speed the process along by eating well, avoiding too much alcohol, not smoking, and engaging in regular but not excessive exercise. All these things will boost your immune system and help it work most efficiently.

Does It Matter When I Get Each Session?

You will get the best results when you are consistent in your treatments. If you get your treatments too close together, you’ll actually over-treat the tattoo, which can cause side effects you don’t want. On the flip side, if you don’t show up for your appointments consistently, you won’t see the results you want as quickly as possible and may end up frustrated.

What If I Have a Pre-Existing Health Condition?

There aren’t many pre-existing conditions that can keep you from getting treatments, but there are a few skin conditions that can interfere. If you have eczema or rosacea in the treatment area, though, we can help craft a plan that will work for you. If you have a compromised immune system, laser tattoo removal might not be the best choice for you, but come talk to us about your options.

Am I a Good Candidate?

Most people who want to remove a tattoo are good candidates for the laser removal method. Your first step is to meet with us for a consultation. We’ll take a look at the tattoo itself and get a thorough medical history from you. We’ll ask about any medications you’re taking and any skin treatments you’re having.

If you have photosensitivity or if you’re taking a medication that causes photosensitivity as a side-effect, we will work with you to see if we can pause your medications for a while. Our primary concerns are your safety and helping you meet your goals. Don’t assume that you can’t get treatment, though: come and ask us! The great news is that the vast majority of people who want to remove a tattoo are fine candidates for this treatment.

Get Rid of That Tattoo

If you’re tired of living with a tattoo, for whatever reason, come talk to us. Our laser removal process is fast and efficient and has minimal downtime. Contact us at Old Town MedSpa in Chicago, IL today to learn more or get started.

When it comes to restoring a youthful appearance, many people use cosmetic treatments such as dermal fillers to fill in fine lines and wrinkles. However, picking a dermal filler can be challenging. Not only do you have to consider what the filler will be used for, but the longevity of the treatment is also a factor. At Old Town Med Spa in Chicago, IL we know that Juvederm Voluma is one of the best and longest-lasting dermal fillers around.

How Long Does Juvederm Voluma Last?

In the past, dermal fillers only lasted for about three to six months at a time, but as the formulas have advanced, so has the longevity of the treatment. That said, even though you can expect most dermal fillers to last for around a year, there are some dermal fillers that out-perform others on the market. Juvederm Voluma is one of those fillers. On average, most patients can expect the results of this filler to last for 18 to 24 months, and sometimes longer.

Part of the reason why this filler can last so long is that it is formulated with hyaluronic acid, a natural molecule that can be found in the body. Hyaluronic acid plays a special role in the skin cells by helping the skin retain moisture and it is also known to enhance collagen production. Of course, there are other factors that may influence how long the results of your Juvederm filler will last, such as:

Age and Genetics

Two of the biggest factors are also the ones that are entirely out of your control because you can’t stop yourself from aging and you can’t dictate the way your body metabolizes therapeutics. It isn’t fair, but the fact of the matter is that younger skin tends to produce longer-lasting results because younger skin is better able to produce natural collagen, while mature skin has to work harder. Keep in mind, however, that the results mature skin can achieve with dermal fillers are often more dramatic, even if they last a few weeks less.

Your genetics are also a factor because things like hormones will determine how readily your body can produce and mature collagen. This is especially important for those who have noticed visible signs of aging earlier in life since this suggests that your genetics are already defaulting to produce less collagen in general. Fortunately, the right dermal filler can temporarily combat genetics and help you look younger.

Lifestyle Habits

There are also lifestyle habits that can contribute to how long your dermal filler results last. For example, drinking enough water and getting enough sleep are vital components for maintaining your skin health since this makes it easier for your body to self-regulate and more easily produce collagen. Factors such as environmental pollution, smoking, or drinking alcohol in excess can also affect the way your body responds to dermal fillers.

There are two other factors that many people overlook – stress and exercise. Stress produces a hormone called cortisol that is known to break down collagen, which means that if you are constantly stressed, then the results of your dermal filler may not last as long as predicted. And while exercising is good for your health, over-exercising vigorously every day will also create hormones that will break down your filler results more quickly. Moderation in your lifestyle habits is key to helping your results last longer.

Sun Exposure

Too much sun can cause incredible damage to your skin. For one thing, many skin experts suggest that about 80 to 90% of visible aging (particularly premature aging) is caused by unprotected exposure to UV rays from sunlight. This is because UV rays create free radicals in the skin cells that deplete skin moisture, elasticity, and collagen over time, as well as create pigment concerns like dark spots.

It’s a point of fact that sun-damaged skin rebounds slower, which means it may take more time for your skin to produce natural collagen after your treatment. For that reason, it’s especially important that you protect your skin from sunlight after your treatment so you can prevent any collagen breakdown that will shorten the longevity of your results. Most people will benefit from using SPF 30 to 40, but fair-skinned people may want to use SPF 50 for better protection.

Injection Location and Amount

The location of your injection and the amount of product used for your treatment are also significant factors that will determine how long the results of your treatment last. When your treatment is used in areas of high mobility, such as the mouth or the lips, it’s likely that the filler will break down more quickly due to continuous activity; in contrast, fillers used in the cheeks or around the nose tend to last longer.

Similarly, the amount of filler used for your treatment can determine how long your results last. In general, the amount of product used to correct your signs of aging depend on the severity of your age-related concerns. Many people who require more product to correct significant wrinkles may notice that the results will last longer. This is why touch-up appointments are so vital for maintaining the appearance of your results.

Collagen Loss Severity

Everyone ages differently, particularly when it comes to collagen loss. While most people start to decrease natural collagen production around the mid-20s by around 1% each year, there are other factors that can hasten collagen depletion and cause greater collagen loss. When your collagen loss is severe enough to create deep hollows and wrinkles, you will likely require more product to be used.

Depending on how well you can protect the health of your skin after your treatment, your natural rate of collagen loss can be mitigated by dermal fillers so you can sustain a youthful appearance for the expected length of time results should last.

Why Should You Use Voluma?

Aside from how long this dermal filler can last and the fact that it can be used universally for most age-related issues, there are other reasons why you may want to consider using this Juvederm filler. For example, the gel formula used for this filler is denser and more stable than other fillers, which means it resists breaking down better than other options. And because this dense filler can be injected more deeply into the sub-dermal layers of the skin, you will also require fewer touch-up appointments.

Why Hyaluronic Acid Fillers Are Better

The true key for this treatment is the modified hyaluronic acid formula, which creates a significantly durable product that can erase visible signs of aging for up to two years. Hyaluronic acid fillers tend to be more successful because they give the skin many long-term benefits, such as the ability to produce natural collagen.

Hyaluronic acid also promotes better skin healing and elasticity, which are important parts of restoring the appearance of your skin. It’s also worth noting that hyaluronic acid fillers like this one are biodegradable, which means the filler will be processed by the body over time as the skin uses the filler to produce its own collagen. The smoothness of the filler also creates a natural-looking result that is ideal for both age-related and contouring goals.

Juvederm’s Vycross Technology

The formula used in the Juvederm Voluma filler is incredibly sophisticated. This filler has Vycross technology, a patented method that allows the hyaluronic acid gel to reinforce itself by linking higher and lower-weight molecules together once injected. Essentially, this helps make the formula more resistant to breaking down in the body so the results can last longer. Vycross technology also helps the filler stay in place, which is what allows the filler to correct hollowness in the cheeks.

What Can You Expect From Your Appointment?

The first step of your treatment will be a consultation where we will gather information about your general health, skincare routine, lifestyle habits, and the specific age-related concerns you have. We will examine the condition of your skin to assess how appropriate this filler is for your aesthetic goals. We may ask about your history using cosmetic treatments, such as other dermal fillers or Botox to correct signs of aging.

Pre-Treatment

Although you will not need to radically change your skincare before your treatment, there are still some things you will need to do to prepare for successful results. For example, you will need to wear sunscreen and avoid activities that can cause skin sensitivity, including tanning beds, bleaching, or waxing. You should also avoid using anti-inflammatory medications and blood-thinning medications for one to three days before your appointment.

Treatment

Most people can complete a dermal filler appointment in as little as 30 minutes. During your appointment, you may be given the option of using a topical numbing cream to make your treatment more comfortable, but many people are fine without it since this filler contains lidocaine already. Small injections will be made into targeted areas of treatment until your ideal aesthetic is achieved.

Post-Treatment

After your treatment is complete, you will be able to drive yourself home or return to your daily activities. Since there is no official recovery time associated with this treatment, you will have very few restrictions. However, you will need to follow a few post-treatment guidelines to ensure your results are successful. For example, drinking plenty of water and avoiding direct sunlight can be helpful. You will also need to avoid intense heat, rigorous exercise, hot water, and massaging or rubbing the skin after your treatment so the filler can settle properly.

Where Can You Use This Treatment?

This particular Juvederm filler is a highly versatile option that can be used on both the mid and lower face. Areas in the mid-face include trouble spots such as the nasolabial folds, the corners of the mouth, and the corners of the eye. This filler is commonly used to correct the middle and upper cheeks, including bony cheekbones, hollow cheeks, and sagging jowls. In the lower face, this filler is known to treat chin wrinkles, lines around the mouth, and can even contour the jawline to reduce the appearance of a double chin.

Are You a Good Candidate?

In general, a dermal filler like Juvederm Voluma is a universal filler that can be safely used by most people. If you are over 21 and you want to correct the appearance of visible signs of aging, then you are likely eligible for treatment. Regardless of gender or the severity of your age-related concerns, as long as you are not pregnant and you do not have a history of severe allergic reactions, you are probably a qualified candidate.

Rejuvenate Your Skin Volume With Juvederm Voluma Today

Juvederm Voluma is an ideal treatment for those who have age-related concerns on the mid or lower face. With results that can last up to two years and a high rate of reliability, this filler is an ideal solution for moderate to severe wrinkles. Contact Old Town Med Spa in Chicago, IL to schedule your first appointment today.

Fine lines, wrinkles, and skin laxity are all difficult challenges to overcome, but just like any other age-related concern, the right cosmetic treatment can help you look younger and feel more confident. At Old Town Med Spa in Chicago, IL, we are confident that a dermal filler like Restylane Lyft can restore a youthful appearance with long-lasting results.

What Is Restylane Lyft Used for?

There are many potential uses for Restylane Lyft. Primarily, it is used to augment the cheeks without the need to undergo an invasive procedure that implants silicone into the cheeks. However, gaunt cheeks aren’t the only cosmetic concern that this versatile injectable can resolve. It is also commonly used to lift and tighten loose, sagging cheek skin and enhance the appearance of the cheekbones.

However, the safe, effective potential application of this treatment does not end there. Lyft can also be used to erase the horizontal lines that extend from the corners of your mouth and restore volume to your hands. In the Restylane family of products, Lyft is uniquely versatile and produces long-lasting, natural-looking results.

How Does This Dermal Filler Work?

This dermal filler works by injecting hyaluronic acid into the deepest layers of the skin. There are several proteins, fibers, and chemical compounds that are responsible for keeping your skin tight and wrinkle-free. Hyaluronic acid is also required to keep your skin healthy and smooth.

In fact, various scientific research indicates that the production of collagen in the sub-dermal layers of the skin increases when exposed to hyaluronic acid, meaning this treatment will help your body naturally produce collagen to restore lost volume.

Is Treatment Painful?

There is nothing painful about this treatment at all. This dermal filler contains a small amount of lidocaine, a local numbing agent, that will make the treatment comfortable for you. The great thing about using lidocaine in the formula is that it saves an incredible amount of time. The local anesthetic numbs as it is injected so there is no waiting around for 15 minutes to an hour for a topical anesthetic to numb the treatment site.

Another great thing about the formula including lidocaine is the safety of lidocaine. The numbing effects wear off within 15 minutes so you will have no problems moving the treatment area when you get back to work. Furthermore, it is safe to drive after lidocaine is injected so you are free to return to whatever you had scheduled immediately after your session.

What Are the Benefits of Restylane Lyft?

Restylane is an incredibly versatile dermal filler that can be used to correct volume loss on the cheeks and the hands. But the dynamic uses of this filler aren’t the only benefits – in fact, there are many appealing aspects of this treatment. For example, the fact that this treatment is less painful than other dermal fillers is a huge benefit. Other benefits of this treatment include:

Long-Lasting Results

Lyft is one of the longest-lasting dermal fillers available to patients with results that can last for as long as 12 months or sometimes more when used on the cheeks or the face. The results of this treatment will last for about six months on the back of the hands and on the lips due to how mobile these areas are. These long-lasting results mean you can enjoy seamless anti-aging benefits for several months at a time.

To maintain the results of your treatment, you may want to schedule top-up appointments once every six to 12 months depending on where the treatment is being used. Keeping up with your maintenance appointments will allow you to enjoy consistent results. Your results will continue to look good for as long as your body continues to produce collagen in the sub-dermal layers of skin at a higher rate.

Natural-Looking Results

The goal of any good cosmetic treatment is to restore the youthful appearance of a person in a way that looks, feels, and moves naturally. Natural-looking results are subtle restorations that enable you to look younger without looking like you’ve had any work done. The natural results of this treatment are largely attributed to the efficacy of hyaluronic acid and the fact that this treatment stimulates natural collagen production in your body.

Fast Results

Many patients notice an immediate improvement in their appearance within as little as one day. The fast results produced by this treatment are due in part to the amount of water in the injectable gel, which instantly restores and rescues facial volume.

However, the hyaluronic acid in the filler treatment also works quickly once it is absorbed in your body and you will begin to notice your final results within the same week of your treatment. Your results will continue to improve as your body creates greater quantities of collagen.

Reliably Safe

The Restylane family of products has been around since 2003 and have a proven track record of producing reliable anti-aging results. One of the unique components of Restylane is that it was designed for those with skin allergies in mind, meaning that very few people ever have any adverse reactions to the hypoallergenic hyaluronic acid filler. Additionally, studies by the FDA ensure that every new Restylane is safe and effective for patients seeking anti-aging solutions.

What Can You Expect During Treatment?

Before any of your treatment appointments, you will need to attend a consultation so we can examine the condition of your skin and determine if your age-related concerns are compatible with this dermal filler. We will also ask about any allergies you may have, such as allergies to lidocaine. Your history of cosmetic treatments is also relevant, particularly if you have tried other dermal fillers before.

As for your treatment, before your session starts, the treatment area or areas will be sanitized. Combined with the use of a sterile needle in a sterile environment, your sanitized skin ensures that there is no risk of infection. Before we sanitize the treatment area, we will remove any cosmetics that you came in with. If possible, wash the treatment area and come in without any cosmetics on. Your treatment appointment will take about 30 minutes to complete.

How Should You Prepare for Treatment?

Not much preparation is required for Restylane Lyft injections if you are deemed a good candidate for treatment. You should, however, avoid smoking or drinking alcohol for a couple of weeks before your session. You should also stop taking blood thinners and drugs and supplements that increase the risk of bleeding. Make sure you ask your doctor before stopping any drugs, though.

When you come in for your initial consultation, tell us about every drug and dietary supplement you have taken in the past two weeks. If you are taking any nutritional supplements that can thin your blood, like vitamin E, ask your doctor if it is safe for you to stop taking your nutritional supplements for two weeks. If you have a heart condition that requires you to take Aspirin daily, you will not be considered a good candidate for this treatment.

What Else Should You Avoid Before Treatment?

You should also avoid any exfoliating treatments in the two weeks leading up to your injections. For example, you should not schedule any chemical peels (chemical exfoliation) or dermaplaning (physical exfoliation) sessions within 14 days of your scheduled Restylane session. If you feel like you need a chemical peel or similar aesthetic treatment, schedule it for a few days after your Restylane injections.

What Should You Do After Treatment?

After your treatment appointment, you will need to take good care of your skin to achieve the best possible results. For example, one thing you should not do is rub or massage your skin, as this may displace the filler. You should also avoid hot water, excessive exercise, steam, or exposure to anything that may cause swelling, including spicy food.

As for your skincare itself, after your appointment, you should only wash with gentle cleansers and warm water. Please wear adequate SPF protection outside to protect the integrity of the injectable formula and any potential skin sensitivity. You should not use retinoids for at least one week after your appointment to give your body adequate time to acclimatize to the treatment.

Why Can Antihistamines Help You?

Although you may not be allergic to the ingredients in this dermal filler, it may still be a good idea to use antihistamines to minimize any swelling after your treatment. Allergy medications like Claritin and Benedryl contain antihistamines that can minimize skin irritation and swelling. Ask your doctor if using an antihistamine after your dermal filler treatment is a good idea for your health needs.

Are You a Good Candidate for This Treatment?

You may be a good candidate for this treatment if you are at least 22 years of age and wish you could restore volume to your skin without an invasive, time-consuming procedure. Most of our clients are at least 30 because most healthy adults do not slow collagen production at a reduced rate until the age of 25. It is not until around the age of 30 that volume loss gets to the point that treatment is necessary.

Who Wouldn’t Be a Good Candidate for This Treatment?

Although the benefits of including lidocaine in the formula are incredible, people who are allergic to lidocaine are poor candidates for this treatment. Furthermore, people with certain medical conditions should not receive any anti-aging treatment that includes lidocaine. For example, you may be a poor candidate for this treatment if you have certain heart conditions, liver disease, kidney disease, or gluten sensitivity.

Furthermore, you should not consider this treatment right now if you are pregnant, think you may be pregnant or are trying to become pregnant. There is not enough research on the effects of this treatment on a fetus. There is also insufficient evidence to suggest safety for a breastfeeding infant. Wait until you have delivered the baby and finished breastfeeding him or her before you consider this treatment.

Discover How to Rejuvenate Your Skin Today

Known originally as Perlane, Restylane Lyft is a hyaluronic acid-based dermal filler that has been FDA-approved since 2015. We are proud to offer this dermal filler because it is so effective and it has so many uses. Whether you have gaunt cheeks, loose, sagging cheek skin, bony, venous hands, or another volume loss-related problem, Restylane Lyft can benefit you. Contact Old Town Med Spa in Chicago, IL to schedule your first appointment today.

There is no shortage of cosmetic treatments to choose from today. Volume restoration, wrinkle correction, and hydration are all within reach. But one therapy that combines these effects doesn’t exist…or does it? At Old Town Med Spa in Chicago, IL, we have such a treatment. PDO threads can effectively address a laundry list of concerns, provide long-lasting results, and keep you out of surgery.

What Are PDO Threads? 12 Things To Know

1. Each Thread Is Thinner Than a Strand of Hair

Each medical-grade polydioxanone (PDO) thread is made of protein and thinner than a strand of hair. Clinical studies confirm that once in place, these threads relax tendons and muscles to smooth the skin. Keep in mind that every time you make a facial expression, the muscles involved contract in a way that also moves the skin. By relaxing the former, we also give the latter a rest so your face looks softer.

2. A Great Alternative To a Surgical Facelift

Threads can address many of the same concerns as a surgical facelift, albeit in a much different way. First, this therapy does not require anesthesia or incisions, so you can drive home after the session and care for yourself without the assistance of a friend or family member. Second, it poses a minimal recovery period with few limitations; many patients go right back to whatever they were doing before treatment.

Rather than manually lift and pull your skin into place, PDO threads get inserted precisely where rejuvenation is desired. This process is much less traumatizing than surgery but still delivers results that help restore your natural contours.

How Threads Work

At this point, you’re probably wondering what the actual therapy is like. We administer the threads close to the skin’s surface using a thin needle or cannula. Keep in mind these materials are very thin, so the holes used to place them are microscopic. And we use a general anesthetic to reduce any sense of discomfort.

The face-lifting action is achieved as we use the threads to gently move loose, sagging tissues into a higher position. The threads are then anchored in place to maintain the smooth, taut effect. With time, the skin stays lifted even as the threads dissolve (we’ll tell you why in just a moment). This therapy therefore accomplishes two goals: it erases fine lines and wrinkles in the treatment spot and lifts sagging skin to restore a more youthful appearance.

3. The Threads Simply Dissolve

Once the threads are in place, you don’t need to do anything further. Many patients think they must return to our office for removal or care for them in a specialized manner at home – but neither is accurate. Instead, the threads simply dissolve within the body both safely and gradually.

We know this to be true thanks to their long medical history; PDO threads have been used for procedures like open-heart surgery since the 1960s. The protein itself is one of the safest materials we can put into the body, and once your skin fully absorbs it, there’s no scar tissue indicating where the threads were. You can therefore forget about them and embrace your rejuvenated appearance.

4. We Can Treat A Long List of Cosmetic Issues

Because of the “designer” eye look that’s recently grown so popular, with swooshing eyebrows and almond-shaped eyes that tilt provocatively at the outer corners, we often associate threads with the upper third of the face. But this minimally-invasive treatment can treat a wide range of cosmetic concerns, including your:

• Neck
• Jowls
• Jawline
• Wrinkles around the mouth (lipstick lines)
• Forehead lines
• Laugh lines
• Nasolabial folds
• Cheeks
• Crow’s feet
• Under-eye area

5. Treatment Offers Many Benefits

It’s true that threads immediately lift the skin to address common concerns like crow’s feet, and in so doing, makes for a tighter and smoother canvas. They essentially hold the skin in place, and with the ability to precisely control where the thread goes – into the skin, underlying muscle, or deeper layers of subcutaneous fat – we can deliver personalized results. But this is only the start of the many benefits you can expect to see.

Neocollagenesis

Once the threads are injected, the body recognizes them as foreign invaders and activates what it believes to be the appropriate responses. For the skin, this means amplifying collagen production, a process known technically as neocollagenesis. Collagen is the building block of strong, healthy skin.

To understand better, it’s a key component of the extra-cellular matrix (ECM), the underlying support system that allows skin to skim your bones without folding in on itself. As collagen production naturally slows with time, your skin becomes vulnerable to wrinkles and fine lines. But the targeted “damage” caused by PDO threads ignites this process to restore skin to a thicker, stronger, and plumper state.

Elastin Production

As collagen synthesis increases, so too does elastin. These two proteins work together inside the ECM, and elastin gives skin its elastic nature. When you press a finger to your cheek, the skin bounces back because of elastin. You can therefore see how important its presence is to a youthful appearance.

Hyaluronic Acid

Just when you thought it couldn’t get any better, we’re now adding hyaluronic acid (HA) to the mix. This naturally-occurring sugar helps form a trio of sorts with collagen and elastin. Its key role is to attract water molecules that keep skin cells well-hydrated. This is why so many topical facial products are made with HA; it moisturizes in a way that gives a bright, healthy glow.

Just as happens with elastin, HA levels also increase as collagen ramps up. It’s a little like the old saying “you can’t have one without the other.” In addition to holding more than 1000 times its weight in water, HA can also:

• Reduce the appearance of wrinkles
• Improve acne scars
• Calm facial redness
• Soften the skin’s texture

6. You’ll See Long-Lasting Results

We already mentioned you’ll see instant results thanks to the anchoring action of the threads. These effects fade in about six months, but by that time, the benefits of collagen synthesis are visible. It takes your body just 10 to 14 days after treatment to increase collagen production. Then, in the coming weeks and months, you’ll see a softer, more supple complexion with fewer lines and wrinkles.

The results of neocollagenesis peak around six months and can last up to two years. It’s important to note that as long as collagen levels remain high, additional wrinkles will not develop. Think of your face in your teens and throughout your 20s, with its rounded contours and well-defined edges. Most of this was owed to optimal collagen levels, thereby demonstrating the effects this protein has on the skin.

7. Recovery Is Minimal

We already mentioned this, but it’s worth circling back to so you can see little is required of you after treatment. The goal is to make your recovery process, short though it is, as comfortable and effective as possible. In general, we recommend just a few simple steps:

• Delay heat-driven facial treatments for 10 weeks
• Avoid dental appointments for four weeks
• Do not rub or massage the treated area for two weeks
• Deter from strenuous exercise for 10 to 14 days
• Wash the treatment site only with a gentle cleanser and lukewarm water
• Stay out of the sun and places of extreme heat – including tanning beds and saunas, for seven days
• Skip alcohol and anticoagulants for seven days

8. Treatment Can Be Repeated

Many patients find their results further improve as the PDO threads are absorbed into the skin and collagen synthesis revs up. For this reason, they usually have a thread lift repeated several times, which is perfectly safe to do. You’re not at risk for scarring or long-term side effects, and you can refresh your results as desired.

9. Sessions Are Quick and Convenient

One of the best parts of treatment is its easy nature. We can complete your session in about an hour, sometimes a little less, so you don’t have to give up large chunks of time to achieve the appearance you want. With the exception of a few activities, as mentioned above, patients leave our office and return to their normal activities.

If you’re worried about how you’ll look after treatment, don’t be. Common concerns like swelling and bruising rarely happen with this therapy. And because we numb the treatment site first, we eliminate the potential for discomfort.

10. Most Patients Can Have Treatment

Unlike surgery, with its long list of factors that preclude many patients, a thread lift comes with few exceptions. Namely, those who have not had surgery in the last three to four months, as well as those who do not frequently drink or smoke, can be considered for candidacy. Factors that may preclude you from treatment include:

• Broken skin or active acne breakouts
• Susceptibility to cold sores
• An autoimmune disease or infection
• Diabetes
• Pregnancy
• Nursing

11. Today’s Threads Are Very Different

Thread lifts became popular in the 1990s when the treatment was first introduced as a viable way to lift the skin. But there was a problem: the threads commonly tore or dislodged because they were inherently weak. Patients often needed re-dos after sneezing or coughing – simple movements that took away from the treatment’s numerous benefits.

Fast-forward to today, decades later, and innovations in technology have delivered us stronger, more dependable, and more flexible threads. They’re made to withstand common and repeated facial movements without slipping out of place. In fact, doctors see very few, if any, complications and current threads are durable enough to be used on parts other than the face, including the upper arms, thighs, and abdomen.

12. You Can Combine Treatments

There’s no such thing as taking too much care when it comes to your face, meaning that if you want broader results than threads can provide, we recommend you combine treatments. That’s right – you can pair this therapy with other common modalities like laser treatment, neuromodulators (Botox is among the most popular), and lip fillers. The point is we can create an entirely personalized treatment plan just for you.

One Treatment, Many Benefits

Few cosmetic therapies deliver as many benefits after just one session as PDO threads. They lift and tighten skin, prompt collagen production, and smooth wrinkles. All this is provided with relative ease and minimal discomfort. In addition, you’re not forced to endure a lengthy recovery or put yourself at risk for dangerous side effects. Schedule your consultation today by calling Old Town Med Spa in Chicago, IL.

You make healthy food choices, work out five times per week and still have pockets of excess fat in places that bother you. You’re at a healthy weight for your height and you have been for months if not years. Since you can’t spot-reduce fat and you don’t have too much excess fat to burn anyway, you may need liposuction at Old Town Med Spa in Chicago, IL. Today, we’re taking a brief look at where it can be used, who it’s right for, and more.

Which Areas Can Be Treated With Liposuction? 

Liposuction is a fat removal procedure that has been around since the 1970s, first tested by A. and G. Fischer. Today, it is the most commonly performed aesthetic procedure in the West. This highly effective fat removal procedure can remove fat from virtually anywhere, and can help address pockets of excess fat that won’t respond to a healthy diet and regular exercise.

A good general rule of thumb is that you need at least an inch of pinchable fat to be considered a good candidate for the procedure. For this reason, it was most commonly used to remove excess fat from larger regions of the body, like the upper and lower abdomen. However, incredible advances in techniques make this procedure more versatile than ever. It can easily be used to remove excess fat from the: 

• Chest
• Lower back
• Bra line
• Chin
• Neck
• Inner and outer thighs
• Hips
• Upper arms

Who Is the Ideal Candidate for This Procedure? 

During your initial consultation, we will review your medical history, assess your current health and advise you regarding whether you are a good candidate for this procedure. To be considered a good candidate for this procedure, you must be neither pregnant nor nursing. Since nursing takes such a massive toll on the body, it is recommended that you wait at least six months after you have stopped nursing to consider this procedure.

You must also be in fairly good health. This procedure is most commonly performed under general anesthesia, meaning that your heart and lungs must be strong and healthy. If there are any questions or concerns about the health of your heart and lungs, diagnostic tests can be administered. Finally, to be considered a good candidate for this procedure, you should have fairly elastic skin and realistic expectations about the results.

It is also good for surgical liposuction candidates to have some sort of support network around them to help them as they recover from this procedure. You may wish to arrange for a friend or family member to come and stay with you in the first few days after surgery to make things easier for you if you are experiencing any tenderness.

What Results Can I Expect?

After a single session that usually lasts between two and four hours, you can expect the permanent removal of roughly 30% of localized fat cells. During your initial consultation, we will assess your body fat distribution in the targeted areas and give you a better idea of how much fat loss you can expect.

If you’re at your goal weight and targeting a large area, like your abdomen, you may only lose 26% of localized fat cells. Contrastingly, if you are 29 pounds from your goal weight and are targetting a smaller area, like your underarms, the backs of your knees or the area under your chin, you can expect to lose closer to 80% of the localized fat cells.

How Much Weight Can I Expect to Lose?

How much weight you can expect to lose depends on a multitude of factors, including how much you weigh, how much excess fat you are carrying in your targeted areas, the size of the areas being treated and how many areas are being treated. Men tend to lose five liters, or 11 pounds, of fat during this procedure. Women tend to be smaller than men and may only lose nine or 10 pounds of fat.

It’s important to understand that this is a fat removal procedure, not a weight loss procedure. Weight loss procedures, also known as bariatric procedures, are procedures designed to facilitate massive, rapid weight loss by shrinking the stomach. This procedure isn’t designed to help you lose weight, it’s designed to remove excess white fat cells in healthy adults who are at or near their ideal weight and body composition.

How Many Inches Can I Expect to Lose With This Procedure? 

How many inches you can expect to lose with this procedure, again, depends on how much excess fat you were carrying in the treatment area. Men and women who are at or within 10 pounds of their goal weight may lose only one clothing size, but healthy adults who are a bit further from their ideal weight can easily lose two sizes, or four inches, from their waist.

Keep in mind, two to four inches of circumference reduction is only realistic when targeting large areas, like your buttocks, abdomen, chest or back. If you’re targeting your underarms, you shouldn’t expect to lose several inches of fat, but you will lose around 80% of the localized fat cells, so you will be satisfied with the results of the procedure.

How Long Will My Improved Contours Last? 

Although the removal of the localized white fat cells is permanent, you will only maintain your improved contours for as long as you can roughly maintain your weight. Remember, this procedure does not remove every white fat cell in the treated area. When you consume calories in excess, the extra energy is stored in your remaining fat cells. Depending on genetics and a couple of other factors, you may store extra energy in the treated areas.

To ensure permanent results, we recommend maintaining your fat mass. In other words, it’s okay to put on muscle mass, but if you put on over 10 pounds of fat, you will probably start to see your contours change. If you’ve lost and gained weight several times throughout your life, we recommend that you talk to a licensed nutritionist to help you develop meal plans you can stick to for life that will help you achieve and maintain your aesthetic goals.

Why Come to Old Town Med Spa?

When it comes to finding the right surgeon to sculpt your ideal body, you need someone with a top-tier education, years of experience and an eye for art. At Old Town Med Spa, all our surgeons are renowned for their attention to detail and the quality of their results. All of our medical personnel are carefully selected for their skills, and their committment to excellent service and patient care. In addition, each of our surgeons have over a decade of providing the best medical care to clients, performing thousands of aesthetic procedures and delivering great results.

How Should I Prepare for This Procedure? 

We will advise you regarding how you should prepare for this procedure during your initial consultation. To summarize succinctly, you must ensure you are as healthy as possible for your procedure and you must avoid taking any medications or supplements that have the potential to cause contraindications with the anesthesia. Here are a few things you should do:

Watch Your Sodium Intake

In the two weeks leading up to your procedure, you should closely monitor your intake of sodium. If you consume too much sodium, you may elevate your blood pressure to the point that it no longer falls within a healthy range. If you have naturally low blood pressure, it is safe to consume up to three grams of sodium daily. If you have normal blood pressure, consume no more than 2,000 mg daily, and consume a maximum of a gram daily if you have high blood pressure.

To ensure that you’re not consuming too much sodium, read the labels on everything you eat or drink and keep a log. It’s okay if you don’t have an exact measurement of the portion sizes. If you’re unsure if your blood pressure is too high due to your diet, buy an at-home blood pressure monitor. If you don’t want to track your sodium intake, stay away from processed foods and beverages in the 14 days leading up to your procedure.

Watch Your Caffeine Intake

Another critical step you must take in ensuring your blood pressure is normal on the day of your procedure is to watch your caffeine intake. As a good general rule of thumb, you should consume no more than 400 mg of caffeine if you are a male. Consume no more than 200 mg of caffeine daily if you are a female.

Again, read the labels on foods, drinks and medications you consume in the two weeks before your procedure. The amount of caffeine in different types of tea, coffee or energy drinks varies widely. Furthermore, you may be surprised by the amount of caffeine in a couple of servings of dark chocolate or pain medications.

Don’t Take NSAIDs

It is absolutely crucial that you do not take non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs in the 14 days leading up to your procedure. NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen, can thin the blood. This is not ideal during any procedure. If you feel any discomfort in the two weeks leading up to your procedure, take Tylenol (acetaminophen).

Other medications that can thin your blood include Warfarin and monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs). MAOIs are medications designed to treat depression, but they can also be prescribed for such conditions as social phobia and panic disorder. If you are taking an MAOI, ask your psychiatrist if it is safe for you to stop taking your medication for a couple of weeks. If you feel like you can’t function without your prescription, see if you can take an alternative.

Drink Plenty of Water

Studies show that an astonishing 75% of Americans are chronically dehydrated. It is absolutely crucial that you are hydrated when you come in for your procedure because water is lost when the white fat cells are suctioned out of your body. We recommend drinking at least half a gallon of water daily for two weeks.

Request an Appointment Now

If you eat mindfully and exercise regularly, but you still have pockets of stubborn fat, you may be a good candidate for liposuction. If you’d like to learn more about this procedure, call our office today at Old Town Med Spa in Chicago, IL. We speak fluent English, Spanish, Russian and Arabic so you can communicate your goals clearly and we can identify the best plan for you. Our passion is helping our clients restore their self-confidence after weight fluctuations, or achieve a level of self-confidence that they have never felt before. We promise when you walk through the door the first time, you will be welcomed like family. See you soon!

Fine lines, wrinkles, and skin laxity are the most common signs of visible aging, and while many skincare products claim to reverse these signs, the unfortunate truth is that these products are not always as effective as they promise to be. At Old Town Med Spa in Chicago, IL we believe every patient deserves to feel confident about how they look. We are pleased to offer Silhouette InstaLift, an exciting new anti-aging treatment gaining a reputation for being an affordable alternative to traditional facelifts.

What Is Silhouette InstaLift?

Silhouette InstaLift is a type of thread treatment that lifts and tightens lax skin for a younger-looking appearance. InstaLift is a non-surgical and minimally-invasive treatment that can be completed in as little as an hour, letting you get back to your life feeling more confident and looking more youthful immediately. Using specially formulated threads to lift sagging skin associated with aging, InstaLift produces long-lasting and natural-looking results.

The primary area of treatment for InstaLift is in the mid-face, particularly around the jowls, the nose, and the mouth. This treatment is ideal for:

• Correcting nasolabial folds
• Restoring skin elasticity
• Smoothing fine lines and wrinkles
• Filling lost volume
• Redefining jawline and chin

How Does InstaLift Treatment Work?

Silhouette InstaLift is a thread treatment, which means it uses threads to hook and pull the skin into a higher, tighter position. However, unlike other thread-lift type treatments, InstaLift uses threads made with a unique formula and micro-suspension technology that utilizes microcones. In fact, InstaLift is the only absorbable thread-lift approved by the FDA for facial cosmetic treatment. The microcones are attached to the thread sutures that are placed beneath the skin during treatment, which helps grip and lift the skin.

There are a few steps you can expect for your treatment. As an out-patient treatment that can easily be completed in under an hour, the treatment itself is overall very quick and painless. Some steps of treatment include:

Step One: Mapping and Numbing

The first step of your treatment will be mapping the areas of your face where the thread sutures will be placed beneath the skin. The mapping is done based on your consultation to achieve the desired results. Although this is a minimally-invasive treatment, we still administer a local anesthetic, usually lidocaine, to the area of treatment to ensure your comfort while the sutures are being placed.

Step Two: Thread and Massage

A needle is used to insert the microcone thread sutures beneath the surface of the skin. Threads are placed parallel to the skin surface and are gently pulled upward until the skin is taut. After the thread is anchored, the areas of insertion will be gently massaged to make sure the microcones are fully embedded into the sub-dermal layers of skin.

What Are Your Post-Care Instructions?

After your treatment is completed, you will be given a list of post-care instructions to follow over the next 24 to 72 hours. These post-care instructions will help make sure the treatment is successful, as many of the instructions are designed to make sure the thread and microcones are undisturbed during the initial recovery time. Some post-care instructions may include:

• Do not touch or rub the skin
• Avoid washing face or wearing make-up for 24 hours
• Do not eat chewy or hard foods that require chewing
• No strenuous activity, such as exercise

We may provide you with additional personalized post-care instructions, such as how to use ice after your treatment or advice on foods you can eat without risk of dislodging the sutures during recovery.

What Are InstaLift Benefits?

There are many benefits to this treatment. For example, this treatment is ideal for patients who have mild or moderate age-related skin concerns, meaning it may be a good option for patients who are searching for a preservative and preventative treatment anti-aging. The other benefits of this treatment include:

Alternative to Facelift

One of the bigger draws for this treatment is the fact that it is an alternative to traditional invasive facelift surgery. Aside from being less painful than traditional facelifts, this treatment is also more affordable and easier to recover from. This treatment also has significantly fewer risk factors as it does not require the use of a general anesthetic.

Stimulates Collagen Production

Unlike some other tread-lift type treatments, InstaLift also helps stimulate the production of collagen within the skin. This is because the absorbable microcone thread sutures incite the body’s natural regenerative abilities, which not only aids in healing faster but also increases the production of proteins like collagen within the skin. Collagen is known to support the structure of skin, as well as increase skin volume.

Minimal Recovery Time

There is only minimal recovery time for this treatment. Although patients are encouraged to refrain from eating foods that require a lot of chewing or participating in strenuous activity for at least three to five days, there are very few other restrictions. In fact, many patients return to their normal daily activities such as work or errands within 24 hours.

Ideal for Patients Not Qualified for Fillers

Some patients who would like to restore lost volume in the face are not qualified to use dermal fillers due to certain allergies. However, this treatment is an ideal choice for those patients as it fills volume lost in the cheeks and plumps skin for a more youthful appearance.

Customized Treatment

Patients are also able to customize this treatment. With InstaLift, it’s very easy to place threads in ideal locations to lift and tighten skin, meaning that each patient receives personalized care to produce their ideal results. Your customized treatment can lift the skin and reduce wrinkles, while also correcting sagging in the jowls and redefining the jaw or chin area. Your customized treatment is determined by the treatment plan made during your consultation appointment.

Natural-Looking Results

Another advantage of this treatment is natural-looking results. Unlike some facelifts, which produce a wooden or stiff appearance, this treatment allows for natural facial movements even as elasticity is restored to the skin. Natural-looking results enable patients to enjoy feeling more confident. Even better, these natural-looking results only get better over time, especially within the first year of treatment.

Immediate and Long-Lasting Results

Finally, this treatment produces both immediate and long-lasting results. The immediate results are evident on the same day as treatment with an instantaneous lifted appearance following the treatment appointment. These results will continue to gradually improve over the next few months, reaching a peak about one year after treatment. These results are attributed to the natural regenerative abilities of the body, which immediately begin producing collagen at higher rates and continue to produce collagen for as long as the sutures are within the skin.

The results of this treatment also last for a long time. Most patients can reasonably expect to enjoy the results of this treatment for two to three years at a time, sometimes longer depending on how long it takes your body to absorb the microcone thread sutures This means that InstaLift treatment will not have to be repeated frequently. These long-lasting results are another reason why this treatment is a direct rival to a traditional facelift, which sometimes lasts only as long as 5 years.

Are You a Good Candidate?

The majority of adult patients who are not satisfied with their appearance due to age-related appearance concerns are likely good candidates for this treatment. The best patients for this treatment are those with mild or moderate concerns, particularly if those concerns are related to signs of aging in the mid-face.

Your eligibility for treatment will be determined during your consultation appointment, where we will examine the condition of your skin to assess whether Silhouette InstaLift is an appropriate treatment for your concerns. You are likely a good candidate if you want to:

• Correct skin laxity
• Eliminate wrinkles around the nose and mouth
• Restore skin volume

InstaLift: A Facelift Without Surgery and Volume Without Fillers

Silhouette InstaLift is a non-surgical, minimally-invasive treatment that can correct mild and moderate signs of visible aging. This treatment is essentially a way to have a facelift without surgery and a way to restore volume without fillers. InstaLift is your answer to looking more youthful and feeling more confident – all in an instant.