Old Town Med Spa

Chicago Medical Spa and Skin Care Clinic

Old Town 312-643-1689
Lincoln Park 312-882-0700

What Is a PDO Thread Lift and How Does It Work?

Fine lines, wrinkles, or saggy skin areas: these are common signs of aging. Such aging imperfections are because of the loss of collagen, a significant protein that ensures your skin remains young and tight. Droopy areas on your face can make you uncomfortable and lower your self-esteem and confidence. If you are experiencing any of these issues and it is affecting your overall feeling towards your appearance, you can opt for a PDO thread lift: a non-surgical facelifting treatment that uses absorbable PDO threads. Get in touch with the experts at Old Town Med Spa in Chicago for a PDO facelift treatment that will guarantee you a firmer, well-textured, and smoother skin.

What Is a PDO Thread Lift?

A PDO thread facelift is an effective cosmetic treatment that lifts and tightens sagging skin tissues around the face or the neck. The threads used types of hypodermic needles containing absorbable polydioxanone (PDO) sutures. These are inserted in the affected areas to lift the sagging skin and strengthen the contours of your face. The PDO material is easily absorbed by your body, making this facelifting approach one of the safest cosmetic techniques. This treatment therapy borrows a lot from acupuncture in controlling and improving muscle contraction and tissue stimulation.

The insertion of the threads causes various effects on the skin. The threads’ mechanical effects will lift the skin instantly. This effect is followed by cellular renewal through the stimulation of collagen and neovascularization, which enhances the skin’s elasticity and texture. The final impact will be a contraction of the fat tissue, leading to tighter skin.

How a PDO Thread Facelift Works

A typical PDO thread facelift treatment entails the placement of PDO threads to a droopy area on the face or neck. The entry points of the threads depend on an individual’s requirements and the shape of their face. A blunt-ended cannula or a needle is used to introduce the PDO threads to the specific areas that require the lift.

The PDO thread lifting treatment redefines the facial contours and induces the production of collagen. The restoration of the lost collagen causes a skin-lifting experience that can last for about two years. The threads are absorbable, so they will disappear after six months, but the already realized results will remain for an additional three to six months or more.

FAQ About PDO Thread Facelift

How Is This Treatment Different From Facelift Surgery?

Until recently, many people relied on facelift surgery to address facial laxity effects such as drooping cheeks and jowls. Although such treatment is effective, it involves the removal of loose skin, and this is not something that most people would want. The skin lifting option that uses absorbable PDO threads has become a common treatment because it is non-surgical and fast. It guarantees the patient instant results without having to deal with the downtime that comes with surgical procedures.

Is This Treatment Safe?

Skin lifting and rejuvenation through PDO threads is safe. PDO threads are FDA-approved. The sutures are absorbable, and the process is non-surgical, so you do not have to worry about incisions or cuts. This non-surgical facelift treatment leaves no extensive scars, unlike most surgical techniques.

Is This Treatment for Women Only?

We all age, and at a certain point in life both men and women will develop wrinkles, fine lines, or sagging skin. This facelifting option using absorbable PDO threads is for anyone with unwanted droopy areas on the face or neck. This treatment is for women and men who want a fast way to lift and tighten their loose skin without undergoing surgery. Some people even prefer having the treatment done regularly to keep their skin consistently smooth, tight, and firm.

What Should I Do Before and After the Treatment?

Most individuals resume their daily tasks immediately after a PDO thread treatment. While this is possible, taking precautions before and after a PDO thread facelift is essential for getting the best results. You should remove any form of makeup before the treatment; it may make it hard for the practitioner to detect areas on your face that require the lifting.

Like most treatments that involve injections, it is advisable to avoid certain blood-thinning supplements, like Omega fish oils or vitamin E, and alcohol before and after the treatment. Such components can interfere with the efficiency of the treatment, leading to adverse complications. It is not advisable to undergo a facelift if you have an active skin infection like cold sores, acne, or if you are unwell. Discussing your current health condition with your practitioner is a necessary step towards better results.

Avoid going to the sauna and steam room or taking part in strenuous exercise after the PDO thread treatment. It is not advisable to undergo any dental treatment two weeks after the treatment. While dental treatment is discouraged after the facelift, you can have anything done that does not require you to open your mouth excessively wide.

Also, avoid applying a lot of pressure on the treated areas, as this might misalign the threads, causing uneven skin surface. Make sure you sleep on your back, as this lowers the amount of pressure you apply on the face when sleeping.

What Areas Can be Lifted with PDO Threads?

The PDO Thread Lift is a highly versatile treatment. It can be used to treat practically any area of the face. The common areas treated include the eyebrows, the undereye area, cheeks, crow’s feet, jawline, neck, jowls, nasolabial and nasojugal folds, and the area around the mouth.

What Type of Results Should I Expect?

After the PDO thread treatment, you will experience an immediate skin lift. The threads support the lifting of the skin to a new position. While it may look and feel a little tighter initially, you will have a much more natural appearance in a week.

After about one to two months, you will notice the rejuvenating effects. Your skin will be smoother, firmer, and have a better texture. Usually, the focus of your doctor might be on skin lifting or rejuvenation. Depending on the technique and the type of skin, the results will differ from one person to the other.

The threads will dissolve by the ninth month after the treatment. Even after they have dissolved, however, the results will remain for several months more.

Am I a Suitable Candidate for a PDO Thread Facelift?

This facelifting treatment is non-surgical and hence ideal for anyone in need of addressing saggy skin. You are a perfect candidate for this treatment if you are looking for an immediate facelift with no surgery. If you are not ready for the extended downtime that comes with a facelift surgery, then the PDO thread lift is your ideal facial treatment.

The ideal candidate for PDO Thread lift should also not have any other conditions that may lead to unwanted side effects. Your practitioner should examine your medical history to make sure that there are no underlying conditions that may affect the efficiency of the treatment.

Can I Have Other Treatments After Undergoing a PDO Thread Facelift?

You can undergo a PDO Thread Lift alone or alongside other treatments, such as the Silhouette Soft, or in conjunction with other anti-aging medications like filler injections. An effective combination of several facial treatments can enhance the natural lifting outcome. However, consult with your doctor before using any other treatment.

What Types of PDO Threads Are Best for Me?

PDO threads are available in different sizes. You can opt for barbed, non-barbed, or floating threads. The barbed subcategories include cutting barbs vs molding barbs, z-type, uni-directional, bi-directional, or unilateral vs bilateral threads. The non-barbed subcategories include the monofilament and braided threads.

Choosing the right PDO thread increases the rate of success of the entire treatment. These categories differ in terms of tensile strength, quality, efficiency, and price. The PDO thread used for your procedure will depend on your skin-lifting and rejuvenation needs, and you’ll discuss your choices with us when you come in for a consultation.

Benefits of a PDO Thread Lift

Tightens and Firms Droopy Skin

Once the PDO threads are administered into your skin, they uplift the droopy areas of your skin. The results are instant: your skin becomes firm and tight immediately after undergoing the process. Complete results will start showing in about two to four weeks.

Restores Collagen

As you grow old, you will lose some collagen. Collagen helps maintain the skin’s strength and elasticity, so losing collagen explains the appearance of droopy areas on your skin. Once inserted into the skin, the PDO threads restore the lost collagen, tightening the skin and removing any fine lines and wrinkles which may have developed.

Long-Lasting Results

Most other cosmetic treatments do not have lasting results. The majority of related treatments have results that last for, at most, a year. With the PDO threads lift, you are guaranteed an uplifted look for two or more years.

Doesn’t Take Long

This treatment process takes just a short time. The longest this process could take is about an hour, although this rarely happens. The healing process is equally fast.

Is Customizable

You can a wide variety of PDO threads for your treatment. The benefit of this is that your doctor can tailor the treatment to address your specific needs. For instance, the mono-threads are ideal for volume restoration and in the rejuvenation of an individual’s chin and cheeks. For sagging skin on the neck or jowls, the thicker threads are used.

Getting the Most Out of Your PDO Facelift Treatment

Many surgical and non-surgical cosmetic techniques are available today, but a lack of proper awareness and ignorance has caused many people to seek the wrong techniques for the wrong purposes. Even though thread facelifts are effective at tightening the skin, they are not a substitute for those treatments that address skin blemishes such as fine lines, uneven pigmentation, and age spots.

To get the best out of your PDO thread facelift, you can combine the treatment with other recommended treatments. If combined well with the right non-surgical treatment, you will get noticeable and comprehensive results. The rationale for considering combining thread facelifts with other treatments is that the recovery time for this process is relatively short and the threads are safe.

Start Your Thread Facelift Journey Today

If you are looking for a specialist in skin lifting and rejuvenation, get in touch with us today at Old Town Med Spa in Chicago, IL for your initial consultation. Our facelift experts have years of professional experience in skin lifting and rejuvenation and will ensure a successful PDO thread lift treatment for your needs. With this non-surgical technique, you can have a refreshed complexion and smooth, tight, firm skin in no time!

How Long Does It Take to See Results From truSculpt?

Is there anything more frustrating than working hard and seeing zero results in return? For anyone trying to keep a trim figure, it’s difficult to contend with the limitations of diet and exercise, especially when stubborn deposits of fat refuse to go away no matter how much effort you put into your lifestyle. Visit us at Old Town Med Spa in Chicago, IL, where we believe everyone should look exactly the way they want: which is why we are proud to offer truSculpt.

What Is truSculpt?

This is a non-surgical and non-invasive body contouring treatment that can be used to slim multiple areas of the body. From chin to thighs and every problem spot in between, this treatment has helped numerous patients across the nation finally look the way they want. This treatment is the answer for many patients who have tried diet and exercise only to hit a plateau before reaching their ideal appearance.

What Is a Plateau?

In diet and exercise, a plateau happens when the body’s metabolism reaches a peak that continues for a long time. Peaks in metabolism are often the reason why we easily regain weight during diet and exercise adjustment. For the body, metabolism has to constantly be challenged in order to continue burning fat, something which is vital when you are trying to slim your figure down.

Unfortunately, plateaus are especially challenging in the final stretch of your weight loss journey, making it difficult to shed those final few pounds and tone your body. When you hit a plateau, you typically also hit the limit of what you are able to achieve through diet and exercise, and that is where body contouring treatments like truSculpt come into play.

How Does It Work?

truSculpt uses monopolar radiofrequency to melt the adipose fat right off the body. Radiofrequency technology is the current golden standard in many cosmetic treatments as the heat emitted by radiofrequency can dissolve fat, tighten skin, tone cellulite, and reduce the appearance of scarring. Radiofrequency treatments like this one can be done with no invasive techniques, meaning they heat the tissue from the outside in and reduce the risk of any side effects.

Benefits of truSculpt

If you guessed that this treatment has multiple benefits, then you would be right. Aside from being one of the most popular non-surgical treatments in the nation, this treatment also has other impressive benefits, such as:

Body Contouring

First and foremost, this is a body contouring treatment unlike many others. Body contouring treatments are a class of cosmetic treatments that essentially help you correct the shape of your body. There are many kinds of body contouring treatments, such as ones that only tighten skin or ones that help redefine muscle tissue. Body contouring treatments can also be surgical, minimally invasive, or non-invasive.

This is a body contouring treatment that has a variety of functions, from tightening the skin to dissolving adipose fat. Additionally, truSculpt is part of a family of treatments, including ID, 3D, and Flex. Each of these treatments are designed to help you get the body of your dreams. At our office, we specialize in the 3D treatment, which is the most versatile option that addresses all of your body concerns at one time.

Fat Reduction

One of the key uses for this treatment is fat reduction. For many people, getting rid of the last persistent layer of fat on their body is a top priority. This treatment heats the tissue beneath the skin, which melts fat away for good. The fact that this fat reduction can be done without surgery is only a bonus to the efficacy of radiofrequency technology.

Permanent Results

When patients start considering body contouring treatments, they often wonder if the results from these treatments will be permanent. For this treatment, the answer is yes. Any adipose fat that is dissolved by this treatment is permanently removed from the body, which means that it will be difficult for those fat deposits to return. For many patients, this treatment yields permanent results that can last a lifetime with the right diet and exercise.

Safe and Painless

This treatment is FDA approved, which means that it passed numerous clinical trials before being released onto the open market. And if something is approved by the FDA, you can bet that it will be safe. This treatment is safe because it is non-invasive and painless – any treatment that can be done without breaching the skin barrier is typically free of side effects, and this treatment is no exception.

No Downtime

Non-invasive treatments aren’t only safe: they also tend to have virtually zero downtime. With this treatment, patients can return to their normal daily activities within the same day as their treatment session. The fact that this treatment has no downtime is sometimes the only consideration patients make when they assess this treatment. Little or no downtime is an important benefit since it means you can get back to living your life without any significant interruption; something that is invaluable when your time is in demand.

Boost Your Self Esteem

The final benefit of this treatment is the boost in your self-esteem. When you look the way you want, your self-esteem is immediately boosted. High self-esteem comes with better self-confidence and greater feelings of self-worth. For those who have struggled with their body image, having confidence in the way they look is the best benefit of all.

What to Expect Before, During, and After Treatment

What can you expect from this treatment? For some patients, it is important to plan ahead and know what to expect, especially when you have a busy life! For other patients, knowing what to expect from treatment can help them decide if they want the treatment at all. No matter the cause of your curiosity, we are committed to offering comprehensive care for all of our patients, and that starts with explaining the treatment from start to finish.

Initial Consultation

Your first appointment is a consultation appointment. Consultations are usually done to assess if you would be a good candidate for treatment. At your consultation, we will discuss your aesthetic goals and examine the condition of your body, particularly any trouble areas you bring to our attention.

We will also need to gather medical information about you, including your current medications, current health issues, and any cosmetic treatments you have had in the past. Although non-invasive treatments are safe, it is important for us to have medical information so we can assess how successful treatment will be. It is sometimes the case that lifestyle habits and medication can make the treatment less effective.

Pre-Treatment Guidelines

Before your treatment, there are a few instructions you will be asked to follow. These instructions help make sure that each treatment session produces ideal results. Some pre-treatment guidelines you can expect include:

  • Hydrating properly before treatment
  • Removing make-up and jewelry at treatment sites
  • Shaving the treatment area before treatment
  • Not wearing lotion or perfumes to an appointment

We may take photographs before your treatment begins. These photographs are for your medical file and are used as a reference for your treatment plan.

Treatment

For this treatment, the most you will need to do is relax and allow one of our skilled technicians to pass the treatment device over your skin. Because radiofrequency uses heat, you will occasionally be asked if the heat setting used for your treatment is comfortable. Many patients compare this treatment to a hot stone massage. There should be no discomfort at all during treatment. Depending on the number of treatment sites, your treatment sessions will take 15 to 60 minutes from start to finish.

Post-Treatment Guidelines

There are only a few instructions you will be asked to follow after your treatment is complete. It is important to follow these guidelines so that your treatment will be as effective as possible. Some post-treatment guidelines may include:

  • Increase water intake for 24 hours after treatment
  • Do not overeat
  • Partake in light exercise
  • Avoid excess heat for 1 to 3 days
  • Avoid lotions and perfumes for 24 hours after treatment

We may provide you with cosmetic prescriptions to use, such as topical creams that help reduce cellulite deposits and prolong the results of your treatment. Please use these products as advised.

Recovery

There is no downtime associated with this treatment. After your treatment is complete, you are free to return to your normal daily activities, and you are encouraged to continue with your fitness routines as planned. You can expect some minor redness at the treatment site, but this is a temporary side effect that fades within hours of treatment.

How Long Does It Take to See Results From truSculpt?

Many patients report noticing a slimming of their figures within 48 hours of treatment. It is common to notice immediate results after the first treatment, but most patients notice the biggest results after 2 or 3 treatments. Since treatment sessions are generally spaced 6 to 8 weeks apart, you will notice the most obvious results at 3 or 4 months after your first treatment session. While most patients require 2 or 3 sessions, we will help you decide how many sessions will help you achieve your ideal appearance.

How Can I Maintain Results?

Some patients wonder if there is anything they can do to help maintain the results from this treatment. There are in fact several things you can do to make sure that your treatment lasts for as long as possible. For example, maintain a regular exercise schedule and a fat-restricted diet to keep your metabolism stable. Healthy lifestyle habits can go a long way to maintain results from body contouring treatments.

Am I a Good Candidate?

This is a treatment that is safe for all skin types and skin tones as well as many skin conditions. This treatment can be used for men and women who have mild or moderate fat deposits that cannot be removed with diet or exercise. You may be a good candidate for this treatment if you want to:

  • Tighten your abdomen
  • Slim your upper arms
  • Reduce fat in the chin area
  • Smooth hips and buttocks
  • Slim outer and inner thighs
  • Diminish the appearance of scars
  • Tighten cellulite or mildly loose skin

Trim Your Figure With truSculpt!

The challenge of shedding those final pounds doesn’t mean you have to be frustrated. Even when diet and exercise reach a plateau, you still have another option to explore so you can finally look the way you want. It’s time to love every aspect of your appearance. If you think that truSculpt is the answer to trimming your figure, contact Old Town Med Spa in Chicago, IL to schedule your initial appointment!

Am I a Good Candidate for Liposuction?

Medical studies continue to prove that a majority of Americans are struggling to achieve their ideal figures. When you have tried dieting and exercise only to be met with failure and disappointment, you may wonder what other methods you can use to contour your body and lose fat deposits. Find out if liposuction is right for you by discovering how this procedure is done and who can be considered for treatment.

What is Liposuction?

This is a cosmetic procedure that is done almost entirely on an outpatient basis. It involves the use of specialized techniques, and these techniques have only advanced over time. Fat deposits are skillfully removed from the body during the procedure.

This procedure can be done one of various ways depending on how much fat you want to be removed and other factors. The basic types of liposuction are:

  • Tumescent
  • Ultrasound-assisted
  • Laser-assisted

With tumescent lipo, a local anesthetic as well as lidocaine and epinephrine are used in the areas being treated before removing the fat. Ultrasound-assisted liposuction uses ultrasound technology to turn the fat into liquid. Laser-assisted liposuction utilizes laser energy to liquefy the fat deposits. This type of liposuction can be done on various parts of your body.

Candidacy for Liposuction

Our surgeon will not perform liposuction on just any patient. You must meet specific criteria before being approved for this procedure. Generally speaking, in order to qualify for this procedure, you must:

  • Be at or close to your ideal body weight
  • Have firm and elastic skin
  • Have good muscle tone
  • Be healthy with no life-threatening illnesses that could compromise healing
  • Be a nonsmoker or be willing to quit smoking for a set time before and after the procedure
  • Have a positive outlook on life and specific goals regarding body contouring

If you meet these criteria, you may be allowed to go through one of the available lipo procedures.

What About Recovery?

As mentioned, liposuction is done on an outpatient basis in most cases. After your procedure, you will be allowed to return home as long as you are stable and cleared to leave. Since this is a surgical procedure, a recovery period is required. It’s important to follow our team’s instructions during this time for an optimal outcome.

Talk to Our Surgeon

Liposuction can be a viable body contouring treatment if you have not been successful with dieting and exercising. You can determine if you are a good candidate for the procedure by learning more during a consultation at Old Town Med Spa in Chicago. Contact us today to book your appointment and get started!

What Does a PRP Facial Do?

There are many cosmetic facials that aim to improve your appearance by using natural bodily processes, usually by stimulating collagen production with heat to tighten and lift skin. These facials work fine, but the biggest drawback is how long the benefits of those treatments last. Even the most revolutionary of collagen stimulating facials only last for a few months before your skin returns to normal laxity. But at Old Town Med Spa in Chicago, IL, we are proud to say that our PRP facials are unlike any other facelifting treatment you will ever receive.

There is a lot to unpack about PRP, so consider this your main resource for everything you need to know about PRP treatments. If you still have questions after reading through this information, the staff at our office are fully prepared to answer any additional questions when you come in for an appointment.

What Is a PRP Facial?

First and foremost, you should know that any PRP therapy is considered a medical treatment. While the general purpose of PRP is for cosmetic reasons, the exact methods of the treatment are highly scientific and involve using biological stimulants that other cosmetic treatments do not. For this reason, PRP treatments are only performed by trained medical staff.

So, what is this facial? PRP is a two-part method. For this facial, we use a topical application of PRP and follow it up with microneedling or fractionated lasers to aerate the skin to allow the PRP to fully sink into the skin. PRP treatments work with the body to fully stimulate the skin to promote healing and production of skin-lifting properties deep within the skin layers.

If the process sounds somewhat familiar, it might be because you’ve heard of PRP in another way. Another term for PRP is a “vampire facial”. Why? It has to do with what PRP actually is.

What Does PRP Mean?

PRP stands for platelet rich plasma. That’s right – platelet and plasma, as in blood. The term “vampire facial” makes a little more sense, right? In the case of PRP treatments, we derive the platelet rich plasma from your own blood. Using scientific methods, we draw a small amount of your blood to create a substance that is then applied topically to the skin. Using your own blood to create the PRP is a safe way to stimulate your skin’s healing properties.

How Does a PRP Facial Work?

Platelet rich plasma is full of growth factors that help promote a healing response on the surface and sub-layers of skin. By combining the topical PRP treatment with other facial techniques that are designed to stimulate collagen production, this medical facial treatment can produce long-lasting results.

For PRP, we usually combine the plasma with one of two different facial techniques. The first is microneedling, which punctures the skin with tiny sterile needles, which is thought to produce new collagen deep within the skin. The second is fractionated lasers, which use a small amount of heat fractured into microscopic arrays that are meant to stimulate collagen production. Either method is acceptable for PRP treatment.

If you are not a fan of aerating your skin or do not feel that your skin concerns warrant any minor invasive techniques, then we do have a third method. If your primary concern is skin texture, such as acne scarring, then we will apply the topical PRP and stimulate the skin using a gentle dermaroller. This method is effective for minor skin concerns and is largely preferred by those who do not like needles.

At your consultation appointment, we will discuss which method will work best for you based on your goals, your level of skin laxity, and your skin type. The ultimate choice of which method we use is decided by you.

What Does a PRP Facial Do?

By now you might be wondering what this PRP treatment is supposed to do. The overall goal of a PRP treatment is to tighten and lift skin. PRP treatments are regarded as anti-aging facials that help improve skin health concerns. Some of what a PRP facial can do include:

  • Reducing fine lines and wrinkles
  • Improving skin texture
  • Increasing collagen production
  • Refining pores
  • Reducing acne scars
  • Improving skin tone

Benefits of PRP Facials

In addition to the many improvements of your skin health, PRP also helps produce a healthy glow in the skin. Glowing, dewy, supple skin is generally seen as the peak of a youthful, healthy appearance, and PRP treatments produce this result without fail each time. A youthful appearance is the main benefit of PRP treatments, but there are other benefits to consider, such as how long PRP treatments last.

This is another area where PRP treatments are different from other kinds of facials or anti-aging treatments you might get at a medical spa. Some treatments, such as those that use fillers or only address the skin surface, can be completed within one appointment. However, for the best and longest-lasting results, you typically need to have multiple rounds of PRP treatments. This is a benefit of PRP because you will continue to see results for as long as two years after your treatments are over.

A final benefit of PRP treatments is the natural aspect of it. Because PRP is developed using your own blood, you are not introducing new or artificial products to your skin. This significantly reduces the risk of an allergic reaction. It also means that PRP is comparatively more gentle to the skin. Plus, PRP treatments are designed to promote healing above all else. PRP helps you use the tools your body provides – it just delivers these results more efficiently.

What to Expect During PRP Treatment

What should you expect during PRP treatment? We want you to understand the exact steps that are involved in this treatment, from your very first appointment to your very last. As a medical treatment, PRP has a few more steps than other cosmetic facial treatments. Here we will break down the process into two parts: the initial appointment and the treatment appointment.

Initial Appointment

At your initial appointment, we will first walk you through everything you need to know about PRP therapy, what to expect from the treatment, and will go over any questions or concerns you might have. We will discuss your goals for treatment to make sure that PRP is right for you.

Our staff will also examine your skin, and in particular your level of skin laxity, consider other skin concerns you might have, and evaluate your overall skin type. This information will help us explore which of the two aeration methods are best for your particular treatment.

Treatment Appointments

Your treatment appointments are where the magic happens. No matter how many treatment appointments you have, the steps for each appointment are the same.

Step One: Cleanse and Numb

Once you are in the treatment room, we will gently cleanse your face of all oils and impurities and then apply a topical numbing cream. The numbing cream is used regardless of which treatment method is part of your treatment plan. We allow the numbing cream to sit on the skin for about 45 minutes or until the face is fully numb. This is done for your comfort, as there are areas of the skin that are particularly sensitive to pressure.

Step Two: Blood Draw

We usually draw blood on the day of your appointment so that the PRP produced is as fresh and possible. While your skin is numbing, our nurse will draw a certain amount of blood: just enough to be sure there will be enough platelets to isolate when we create the plasma. Creating the PRP in our lab takes about 10 minutes.

To make sure your blood draw will make enough plasma, it is important to be hydrated. Be sure to drink plenty of water in the days leading up to your treatment and on the day of your treatment. The better your plasma, the more effective the treatment.

Step Three: Aeration

The next part of the process is to prepare the skin to receive the full benefits of the PRP. This is done by aerating the skin, either by microneedling, fractionated lasers, or with a dermaroller. This part of the treatment process is where you might feel a small amount of sensation, particularly where skin is thinnest, such as in the forehead and around the jawline.

Step Four: Applying PRP

You might be surprised to learn that the finished PRP product is actually clear – not red. This is because plasma that has been isolated holds no color. As it is, when we apply the PRP to your skin, it will feel like a thick serum is being applied. We allow the PRP serum to sit on the face for a few minutes and then gently cleanse the face again.

Overall, a full PRP treatment appointment lasts between 60 and 90 minutes. Appointment length varies depending on how many areas are being treated and the exact methods that are being used.

Post-Treatment

After the treatment is over, you will be given post-treatment instructions. Be sure to follow each of the recommended guidelines, as your skin will be vulnerable for several days following the treatment. The post-treatment instructions include:

  • Avoid direct sun exposure for 3 days
  • Avoid excess sweating for 3 days
  • Do not use skincare cleansers or creams for 2 days
  • Do not wear make-up for 2 days

Expected Recovery

If you follow the post-treatment instructions, there is no reason why you cannot resume most normal activities immediately following the PRP treatment. As long as you are out of the sun and not sweating, you can go back to life as normal.

Some patients find that their skin is sensitive to the touch for the first two days following treatment, especially if the microneedling method was used. Any lingering redness usually disappears within 28 hours following the treatment. You might consider applying ice to your face for 10 minutes every hour on the day and in the days following the treatment if you are experiencing sensitivity.

Within the next 4 to 7 days, you will experience some minor shedding. This is completely normal and expected after a PRP treatment. You can think about it like a snake shedding old skin to reveal gleaming, pretty new scales. In the same way, the small amount of shedding will reveal glowing, healthy skin within a week following the treatment.

Expected Results

You can expect to see results as early as one week following the treatment. You will see most improvements for skin texture within 3 weeks after a treatment. You will notice improvements in skin laxity and other anti-aging benefits in the next 2 to 8 months.

We generally recommend three treatments spaced one month apart to produce the best results. You will continue to see results following these PRP treatments for up to 2 years. Depending on your skin concerns, we might recommend maintenance treatments once or twice a year to keep the results of the treatment consistent.

Ideal Candidates

Who are ideal candidates for PRP treatments? There are no age limitations or medical restrictions, so PRP treatments are appropriate for anyone who has skin concerns that can be addressed by this type of facial. If you have scarring in the cheeks, wrinkles around the eyes, fine lines around the mouth and forehead, and skin laxity around the jawline, then you are a good candidate for a PRP facial.

Learn More!

Interested in the amazing beautification benefits of PRP facials? Contact Old Town Med Spa in Chicago, IL to schedule your initial consultation today! Our expert staff are prepared to answer any questions you may have about PRP facials and other services that we offer. We look forward to the opportunity to help you achieve your ideal appearance!

Get Better-Looking Skin with Stretch Mark Removal

Stretch marks are irregular bands of skin tissue that develop when your skin stretches rapidly and cannot heal properly. Although they are not a health concern, they may be a cosmetic concern if you have them. If they bother you, you most likely want information about your stretch mark removal treatment options. At Old Town Med Spa, we’ve done all the work for you and have found that PRP with fractionated laser treatments and/or PRP with microneedling can produce amazing results.

A Closer Look at Stretch Mark Removal

Cosmetic lasers and PRP therapy are able to treat a wide range of conditions, including stretch marks. During this treatment, we may direct a laser to transmit focused wavelengths of light under the surface of your skin in the treatment area. This energy is transformed into thermal energy that causes certain changes to deep layers of skin. PRP and microneedling can also be used for further benefits. Your body will respond by remodeling the treatment area to diminish stretch marks.

One advantage to undergoing a stretch mark removal procedure at our office is that the precision allows us to treat a very specific area. Surrounding skin tissue is left intact, so less healing time is necessary after your treatment. No one will likely know that you had anything done, but your results will build in the weeks and months after your treatment while your skin heals and remodels itself.

The Many Benefits of Stretch Mark Removal

As you may know all too well, when a person has stretch marks, their self-confidence can suffer. Rather than showing off smooth, blemish-free skin, they are forced to hide their stretch marks underneath jeans and other articles of clothing. After stretch mark removal, most people experience a boost in self-confidence. They no longer feel the need to cover up their abdomen, thighs, hips and other areas.

Another benefit of stretch mark removal is the procedure is entirely non-surgical. The treatments are designed to be quick and easy, even for clients with busy schedules. This is beneficial since a series of treatment sessions is usually required for optimal results.

Learn More

If you would like to receive more information about your stretch mark removal treatment options, we encourage you to reach out to us at Old Town Med Spa to book your initial consultation at one of our locations in Chicago. We have multiple treatment systems available. Are you ready to take the next step? Contact us today to schedule an appointment and get started.

What Makes Laser Hair Removal So Effective?

For many people, hair removal is a vital aspect of hygiene. Although hair removal is a common practice for most of us, the process can be time-consuming and uncomfortable if the common procedures are used. Laser hair removal is an alternative for people who want a convenient and reliable hair removal technique. The treatment involves the use of laser technology for a long-lasting solution. Laser light is used in removing hair follicles to give you a smooth and hair-free look after a series of treatment sessions.

Is Laser Hair Removal Right for Me?

Are you wondering if laser hair removal is ideal for you? This is a procedure that is recommended for any person who wants to manage his or her body hair by removing or reducing it. To ensure that you are safe, however, you should always consult a qualified professional before you undergo laser hair removal.

Benefits of Laser Hair Removal

Laser hair removal is an effective method of removing body hair that is gaining popularity across the globe because of the numerous benefits that come with it. Some of the advantages of this method are:

  • It’s a great option for short body hair: If you are wondering if laser hair removal can deal with your short hair, you need not worry anymore. This is because laser hair removal is highly effective for removing short body hair, which means that you do not need to allow it to grow first before a session.
  • It is effective: If you want to remove your body hair in the most effective way possible, you should consider laser hair removal. This is because it is more efficient and reliable when compared to other hair removal techniques.
  • Once you undergo hair removal, you can get back to your normal routine immediately. The treatment is non-invasive, and there is no downtime required after undergoing the procedure. This makes it a convenient option for men and women with busy schedules.

If you are considering this treatment, you are warmly invited to get in touch with Old Town Med Spa in Chicago to set up a consultation. Let us evaluate your case and tell you more information about the treatment. From there, we can tell you whether or not laser hair removal can work for you. Contact us today to book an appointment and get started. We look forward to hearing from you!

Answering Your Questions About a Brazilian Butt Lift

If you are searching for more information about a Brazilian butt lift, you are not alone. If you’re considering having this procedure done, knowing more about it can put your mind at ease. Want to know if it is right for you? You are warmly invited to learn more about the procedure.

What is a Brazilian Butt Lift?

A Brazilian butt lift is a cosmetic procedure that works to increase the size and shape of the buttocks. This makes the buttocks more round than they were. Fat removed through liposuction is used to add volume to the butt area. This contours, shapes, and provides a fuller, better-looking bottom for those looking for one.

Am I a Good Candidate for This Procedure?

Many wonder if they are a good candidate for this or other cosmetic procedures. Those who are in good health, do not smoke, have a confident appearance in themselves, and have realistic expectations are good candidates. Those who want to shape, contour, and lift their buttocks will enjoy having this procedure performed.

How Long is the Recovery Time?

The time for recovery ranges depending on the specific person. It is important to limit the amount of physical activity you do until you are cleared by the physician. Many return to their normal job within days. However, it all depends on the unique case.

What If I Don’t Have Enough Fat?

Those who do not have enough body fat or those who are especially thin may not be ideal candidates for this procedure. The Brazilian butt lift is a procedure that requires body fat to be taken from other areas of the body to fill in the buttocks. If there is no available body fat in other areas of the body, the procedure may not be performed. The good news is we have other options available as well.

How Much Will the Procedure Cost?

The cost can vary from person to person, and it is ideal to get a consultation and a quote from the physician based on your specific case.

Contact Us

If you’re looking to enjoy the benefits of a Brazilian butt lift, then speak with our professionals at Old Town Med Spa to find out more. Set up a time for a consultation at one of our two offices in Chicago so that we can answer any questions you may have. Contact us today to book your appointment and get started. We look forward to hearing from you!

What are the Steps of a HydraFacial?

HydraFacial

Rapidly becoming one of the world’s most popular skin rejuvenation treatments, the HydraFacial combines several techniques to smooth, soften, hydrate, and firm up the facial skin. The number of problems adults experience with their skin is too long to mention here, but the most common concerns are wrinkling, brittleness, dullness, and clogged pores. Blemishes become more prominent, and skin dryness is an ongoing problem.

If you’re tired of superficial treatments that don’t bring about the results you expect, consider the HydraFacial procedure. This multi-step treatment addresses multiple concerns in a single, hour-long procedure that results in smooth, glowing skin that breathes properly and which is moisture- and nutrient-balanced. Below, we go through the treatment steps so that you’ll get a good idea of what the procedure involves. If you have further questions, don’t hesitate to contact us to set up a no-obligation consultation.

Multi-Step Skin Treatment

You know about dermabrasion, light therapy, laser resurfacing, microneedling, and chemical peels. Most of these treatments address a single skin concern. The HydraFacial is different. The steps in the procedure are sequenced in such a manner as to make the most efficient use of the instruments involved. Basically, the treatment lifts away dead and damaged skin cells, exfoliates the epidermal and dermal layers, extracts dirt and other foreign material from clogged pores, and infuses vital nutrients right into the skin layers.

Even as you leave the clinic or office where the procedure is performed, you’ll enjoy a more youthful countenance, a glowing appearance to the skin, and a higher level of confidence. The results of the treatment last for months, and even after the procedure is complete, your facial skin continues the rejuvenation process for quite some time.

What Does It Treat?

The procedure is designed to improve the texture of the skin by promoting healthy new epidermal growth. This means fewer visible wrinkles and a smoother surface that doesn’t appear brittle or dry. Enlarged pores are unclogged, and this allows the skin to breathe more easily. Moisture imbalance is corrected via the infusion of a mix of water and nutrients.

The improvement in skin texture also means less prominent blemishes such as age spots, liver spots, freckles, and scarring. Injury and acne scars are diminished as a result of this revolutionary treatment.

Step One: Exfoliation

We use a special set of instruments to perform the HydraFacial treatment. These are connected by hoses and cords to a monitor. The monitor is programmed to deliver the correct amount of water and air pressure to the instruments. The main instrument is filled with a predetermined mix of nutrients.

First, we use a rotary tool to gently brush and lift away dead and damaged superficial skin cells. This gets the surface exposed properly so that we can efficiently extract material from the skin pores. The sensation is a bit tickly, but it’s also somewhat relaxing. The scouring head is made up of fine, brushy hairs made of a polymer. A slight suction into the instrument ensures that all of the unwanted dead and damaged tissue is lifted away.

Step Two: Ablation

We don’t actually remove any skin by force. What we do is apply a mild acid to the skin surface. We can use one of the handheld instruments to do this. The tool tip applies the acid to the skin, and the acid quickly cauterizes and dries out the upper portion of the epidermis. After a few minutes, the solution is washed away with a special solvent. The skin is now prepared for the combined step of extraction and infusion.

Unlike most chemical peel treatments that don’t dry the skin immediately, our special peel job can be immediately followed by the extraction procedure. The dermal layer isn’t affected by the mild acid, so there’s no waiting or healing period.

Step Three: Extraction and Exfoliation

This is the real magic of the HydraFacial treatment. A special tool is used to simultaneously suck out material from the skin pores and deliver the nutrients into the skin. The tip of the instrument has a series of holes through which air gets sucked into. This is where the oils, tiny dirt particles, grime, and other unwanted stuff goes after it gets pulled out of the pores. This gets sent to a collection jar, and after treatment, you get to see just what was in your skin. You’ll be amazed at the amount of gunk we sucked out of your skin.

At the same time, other holes in the instrument tip are delivering a combination of nutrients under water pressure, hence the name of the treatment. As we move the tip of the instrument over the surface of your face, both extraction and infusion occur at the same time. The infusion mix contains peptides, antioxidants including Vitamin E, and other natural extracts.

That’s how the procedure works. You can relax and listen to music, daydream about your next globe-hopping vacation, or make your mental grocery list while we perform this amazing skin treatment.

When you leave, we’ll give you a set of at-home products for you to use as follow-up and maintenance care. These will include several topical creams and ointments containing vital skin nutrients.

The improvement in skin tone and texture continues for weeks after treatment. The removal of the upper epidermis signals replacement, and the body goes into overdrive producing healthy skin cells. Collagen remodeling also takes place, and this eventually results in firmer yet softer skin. The skin receives more air via the unclogged pores, and at the same time, the skin doesn’t dry out because of its increased moisture-retention ability.

Customizing the Treatment

This is an overview of the HydraFacial treatment, and most of our clients choose this three-step procedure to improve various problems with the facial skin. However, during a consultation we ask about specific concerns and can design a more individual and customized treatment.

The infusion mix can be altered to address certain problems. For example, we can choose a growth factor boost, a serum containing additional peptides and growth factors that help to restore overall skin health. There’s a dermabuilder boost that helps to minimize signs of aging skin. A patented combination of peptides nourishes the lower skin layers, and eventually this new, healthy material also becomes the new epidermal layer.

The brightening boost helps to diminish the prominence of dark spots. This is achieved via the infusion of alpha-arbutin and Vitamin C. We also offer the optional light treatment. A special LED light mask can be worn for a short period of time. The light destroys harmful bacteria, and certain wavelength combinations such as red and green actually help to kickstart skin rejuvenation, specifically the production of new skin cells that smooth the surface and fade away non-set wrinkles.

All Age Groups Welcome

This treatment was developed primarily for the mature adult population, but it’s rapidly becoming a preferred treatment for teenage acne. Adolescents often experience redness and blotching due to environmental and genetic factors, but these trouble spots can be improved with a customized facial treatment. Young adults struggling to hide or get rid of their acne scars will experience favorable results with a HydraFacial. Older adults with prominent pre-cancerous spots can also benefit from this facial treatment. Certain problems such as rosacea, active rashes, and skin cancers cannot be treated in this way, however. If you have questions about your eligibility for the treatment, don’t hesitate to ask us.

Advantages Over Other Treatments

Dermal fillers can plump the skin, but they don’t treat it. Whatever the cause of the problem is, it remains. Microneedling can effectively reduce wrinkling, but it can lead to infections because it is somewhat invasive. Stronger peel treatments can smooth the skin, but they can also result in bleaching, something that no one wants.

Dermabrasion can lift way damaged skin, but it can also result in uneven skin texture. Laser resurfacing is very costly, and there’s always the chance that some of the skin becomes overheated and damaged by mistake.

On the other hand, the HydraFacial is non-invasive, is suitable for all skin types and skin tones, and is completely customizable. The ability to alter the treatment and include additional nutrient infusion for targeting specific concerns is what sets this procedure apart from the rest.

Some Things to Remember

No facial treatment is going to change who you are. They don’t actually work as a time machine, sending you back to become a younger version of yourself. You must understand the realistic outcome predictions. One thing is for certain. Your facial skin will indeed be healthier by the time you leave our office. You’ll use less makeup and concealers, and you’ll find a new thrill in maintaining your healthy facial skin using the products we give you to use at home.

The effects of the treatment aren’t permanent. You’ll want to have the treatment repeated once or twice per year. Many of our clients get the full treatment to begin with and then come back for targeted maintenance treatments every few months.

Nothing Could Be More Beneficial

Your facial skin is like your car. Both need constant attention. Without maintenance, your car’s engine performs poorly, the tires go flat, and your hoses develop leaks. Without maintenance, your facial skin suffers the effects of environmental pollutants, changes in hormonal balance, and other age-related problems such as decreased collagen and other proteins. You can fight back, however, and it’s a pretty simple battle plan.

Get In Touch with Us for More Information

The HydraFacial is the best maintenance program for your facial skin, and it takes only an hour of your time. To learn more, we warmly encourage you to reach out and make an appointment with Old Town Med Spa. At our convenient locations in Chicago, our caring and devoted team of professionals will be pleased to explain this option to you in greater detail and answer any questions you may have. Contact us today to set up your consultation – we look forward to speaking with you!

Learn About a Neck Lift with Ultherapy

When most people hit a certain age, they start to notice a dramatic change in their appearance. This is especially the case if they have not used different forms of preventative treatments to boost the production of collagen in their skin in order to minimize wrinkles and maintain facial volume. One of the areas that really bothers a lot of people is the area around the chin and down the neck. Some people are dealing with unwanted fat in this area and have a lot of loose and hanging skin. If this describes the issue that you are dealing with, we invite you to learn about a neck lift using Ultherapy®.

Let’s first discuss some of the options that a person may consider initially as they look in the mirror and feel dissatisfied with sagging skin at the lower part of their face, on their neck, and down toward their chest area. It is easy to remove unwanted fat using injections, like the popular product Kybella®. However, this treatment will not do anything for loose skin. There are also other fat removal treatments that do not require surgery, but here again, the loose skin is not addressed. 

Combining a surgical neck lift procedure with liposuction can provide an individual with satisfactory results. The unwanted skin is removed, fat is reduced, and a person looks more youthful and attractive. However, having surgery performed is a big step. Not everyone is ready for it, and not everyone qualifies for it. As you look at the alternatives, you can see why Ultherapy® is something that we highly encourage our clients to consider when they want to address some of the signs that begin to show up due to the aging process.

Learn More About Ultherapy® 

The first thing that you should know about this treatment is that it is non-surgical. It does not involve the use of any incisions. The skin is left completely intact. This means that you do not need to worry about some of the issues that we mentioned above. With a surgical procedure, you would need a lot of downtime. This means that you would have to take a lot of time off from work, have someone help you around the house, and would not be able to spend the same amount of time with your family. You would likely feel quite uncomfortable as you are going through the healing process as well. You do not need to worry about any of these negative side effects with our treatment.

The purpose of this treatment is to focus ultrasound waves at areas where a person is dealing with loose skin. The ultrasound waves will reach various depths of the skin, even reaching the muscle layers. This is great because this is where the aging process is really taking place and is what is causing your aged appearance. We want the collagen in the skin to be damaged at the deepest levels. We are able to accomplish this by the heat that is created thanks to the ultrasound waves. When the collagen in the skin is damaged, the body starts to produce more collagen. The inflammation means that damaged collagen will be replaced with collagen that is tight and new. This is going to lead to a lifting effect. The areas that receive treatment are going to look smoother and have fewer wrinkles.

When a person’s treatment is performed on the neck skin, they will get some of the benefits of a neck lift but without having gone through any type of surgery. This is a great option for individuals who are just starting to see loose skin and wrinkles on their neck. It is also appropriate for individuals who already have moderate wrinkles. Of course, the type of results that you get after just one treatment will be based on a variety of things, especially the extent of damage that you have already sustained because of the aging process.

The treatment can be performed on different parts of the body in order to make the area look more youthful. Any place where a breakdown of collagen is starting to cause wrinkles can benefit from this amazing treatment.

Before you read much further, you may be wondering about the safety of this treatment. While you do not want to use surgery and you do not want to look old, you also are not likely interested in having a risky treatment performed. The first thing that you should know is that the machine that is used to perform Ultherapy® has been approved by the FDA. It has received this approval in order to perform a non-invasive brow lift and neck lift. It has also received approval from this organization to be used in order to improve lines and wrinkles in the upper chest area. 

We highly recommend that you do your due diligence and learn as much as you can about this treatment before deciding if it is right for you. We feel that this will boost your confidence before you visit us for your initial consultation. We would be happy to answer any questions that you have, but we do not want you just to take our word for it. Read more about it, and you will be impressed with its safety record.

The amazing thing about Ultherapy® is that individuals with all different circumstances, skin tones, and goals can benefit from this treatment. This is true no matter if they are interested in treating their brow, lower face, neck, upper chest area, or full face. Because the treatment is non-invasive, it can be used on individuals who have different skin tones. This is something that is impressive to many when you consider that many other cosmetic procedures and treatments are not right for certain individuals because of the potential of visible scarring or hyperpigmentation. The goal is to heat the deep layers of collagen in the skin. So the outer layers of the skin are left completely intact and undamaged.

Because of its non-invasive nature, individuals who have certain health problems that may disqualify them from a more invasive procedure are likely to qualify. If you are interested in improving your appearance but are concerned about a health issue that you have, please contact us. We are confident that this treatment can be used for individuals who are experiencing many different health problems but still want to have a youthful appearance.

What You Should Expect When You Visit Us

The first time you visit us, you are going to be able to enjoy a consultation where you meet with a medical professional who has received training in how to use the Ultherapy® machine. This visit is designed to answer all of the questions that you have about the treatment as well as make sure that it is the right option to help you meet your goals. This means that you will go through a short exam that involves examining the areas where you would like to have the treatment performed and discussing any health issues that you may be dealing with.

If it is determined that this is the right option to tighten your skin, it is likely that the treatment will be able to be done during the same visit. If you are using this therapy as a way to enjoy the benefits of a non-surgical neck lift, it is important to know that the results are not immediate. It takes some time for your skin to produce new collagen. Most of our clients start to see results in the weeks and months after the treatment is performed. The best results are usually seen multiple months after the treatment date. Over the next year, you are going to continue to see improvement.

If you like the way that you look with fewer wrinkles and healthier skin, you may be interested in having another non-surgical neck lift treatment with Ultherapy®. We usually recommend that our clients wait for a certain amount of time before they have another treatment. If a person wants to build on some improvements that they have already seen, it is possible for some people to have another treatment performed a certain amount of time after the initial treatment.

Contact Us to Learn More

One of the questions that we often hear is if it is better to have this treatment performed or if another non-surgical skin tightening methods would be a better option. We encourage you to learn as much as you can about all of the available treatments. As was mentioned above, this treatment uses ultrasound in order to accomplish its magic. We would be happy to discuss the pros and cons of each option with you as you make your decision. We have often found that this therapy is a better option when it is performed on a selected area like the neck.

We have just touched the surface when it comes to learning about how this treatment is performed and how it can benefit you. You are warmly invited to schedule a consultation at Old Town Med Spa to learn more. We would love to tell you about the benefits that you could receive using Ultherapy® for a non-surgical neck lift. We want to help you prevent wrinkles and treat the ones you already have. We want you to love your appearance when you look in the mirror, and we want others to respond to you in a positive way as well. Our treatments can help you to do just that. Contact us today to book an appointment at our office in Chicago. We look forward to speaking with you!

Take the Next Step with Liposuction

liposuction

Have you been considering taking dramatic steps to help you get the body you have always wanted? Most conversations about losing fat quickly revolve around liposuction. This method of body contouring has been around for a long time. Although considered very safe, lipo is a form of plastic surgery and deserves careful consideration. The following is a basic guide to this treatment option. It is designed to help you make an informed decision.

What is Liposuction?

In simple terms, lipo involves suctioning out excess fat from the body. There are different techniques used to accomplish this, depending on the specific wants and needs of the individual. In order to suction out the fat, a small tube is carefully inserted into the treatment area.

One of the most common methods used is known as tumescent liposuction. This technique involves injecting a diluted anesthetic to plump up the target area. When it is time to suction out the fat, the diluted anesthetic is removed as well. At a consultation, the options for this procedure will be discussed and a treatment plan will be created.

Who is a Good Candidate for Lipo?

The best way to know if you are a good candidate for this procedure is to sit down at a consultation. This allows us to get to know your medical history as well as what you are hoping to accomplish with liposuction. The following things increase your odds of being considered a good candidate:

  • Being at or close to your ideal weight
  • Being at least 18 years old
  • Being a non-smoker
  • Having a decent amount of skin elasticity
  • Being in good general health
  • Having realistic expectations for your surgery and outcome

This procedure is a good choice for those who feel certain areas of their bodies are not in proper proportion with the rest. It is NOT ideal for those who are wanting to address loose or sagging skin. Liposuction will also not help improve the appearance of cellulite. Finally, it is not recommended to treat obesity. Of course, during a consultation at Old Town Med Spa, we can determine whether or not you qualify for this procedure.

What are Common Treatment Areas?

This procedure is meant to help sculpt areas of the body that have been clinging to stubborn fat. Areas of the body that people frequently use this procedure for include:

  • Abdomen
  • Hips
  • Buttocks
  • Hips
  • Back
  • Cheeks
  • Chin
  • Neck
  • Chest area
  • Calves
  • Knees

Different Types of Liposuction

As technology and medicine have advanced, new methods of performing this surgery have been developed. The most commonly used ones are:

  • Tumescent: This technique, which was described above, is the most commonly done. Many people are able to have it done under local anesthesia. The injected anesthetic helps to minimize discomfort during the entire procedure.
  • Laser Assisted: With this technique, a laser is used prior to beginning to help break up and dislodge fat cells. The goal is to make them easier to suction out.
  • Ultrasound Assisted: This technique works in a similar fashion, but it uses ultrasound energy to break up the fatty tissue instead. This helps to speed up the surgery when dealing with large areas.
  • Suction Assisted: Here, a vacuum-like device is used to help remove the fat more efficiently.

Preparing for Your Consultation

Prior to sitting down at your consultation, you will need to think about your specific goals for this procedure. It is also a good idea to make a list of questions you have. We will have questions about your medical history, current medications, and any allergies you may have. Sometimes, a different procedure combined with liposuction will get you the best possible results. Tummy tucks and other lifts are good examples. We will discuss all of the options available to you at your consultation.

If you decide you would like to go forward with this procedure, you will be given some instructions on how to best prepare for it. You may be advised to cut out certain foods. If you are on medications such as blood thinners, you will be asked to stop taking them temporarily for a set amount of time prior to your surgery.

What to Expect the Day of Your Surgery

It is important to bring someone with you to drive you home after your procedure. They should also stay with you for the first night as you recover from the anesthesia. Prior to beginning, the areas of the body that will be treated are marked.

The type of anesthesia you will use will depend on several factors. Liposuction is either done under general anesthesia or local anesthesia. General anesthesia means you will be completely “out.” With local anesthesia, you will be awake and aware of what is going on but you will not feel any real discomfort. How long the procedure takes depends on both the number and the size of the treatment areas.

Recovering from Lipo

Exactly what your recovery process will look like depends on many factors. In most cases, you will not have to stay overnight anywhere. You will be restricted to light-duty activities for the first few days. You can expect to gradually start resuming your normal activities in the days and weeks to follow. A compression garment is typically required to help with healing.

After your surgery, you can expect a customized aftercare plan. This will include answers to questions such as:

  • When can I resume exercise?
  • When can I return to work?
  • How long will I need to wear a compression garment?
  • What medications will I need to take? For how long?
  • When do I need to come in for a follow-up visit?

Are the Results Permanent?

This surgical procedure will permanently remove fat cells. Your body stopped creating new fat cells sometime in your teenage years. In that regard, your results can be permanent. However, the remaining fat cells left behind can still stretch and grow. In order to enjoy your results for years to come, it will be important to maintain a healthy lifestyle. This is why the best candidates for this procedure are those who are already committed to eating healthy and those who have developed a sustainable exercise routine. If you do end up putting on weight after your surgery, it will likely start in areas of the body that were not treated.

The Benefits of Lipo

There are many reasons to consider this surgery if you are unhappy with the way your body looks. Believe it or not, not all of them are cosmetic. The procedure can be beneficial to those who:

  • Have lost a lot of weight: Many people work hard and lose weight only to find that certain areas of their bodies are not cooperating. Certain areas like to cling to stubborn pockets of fat, which can be frustrating and discouraging on your weight loss journey. Liposuction can help eliminate them, giving you the results you have worked hard for.
  • Need to tone certain areas: Fat deposits do not always distribute themselves evenly. If this sounds like your body, lipo can help restore balance.
  • Have lipomas: A lipoma is a benign fatty tumor that can develop nearly anywhere on the body. Common areas include the shoulders, neck, arms, and torso. Lipo helps to break up and remove these fatty tumors.
  • Have Lipodystrophy Syndrome: This is a disease that causes fat distribution on the body to become abnormal. Many people are embarrassed as a result. Liposuction will help even things out, improving self-esteem.
  • Have Lymphedema: This chronic condition causes fluids to pool under the skin. As a result, the legs and arms swell. This can be incredibly uncomfortable.

Common Misconceptions About the Procedure

Despite the popularity of this procedure, there are many common myths that are out there and believed. One of these is that liposuction is the most beneficial for those who are severely overweight. This simply is not true. Only small amounts of fat can be removed at one time safely. Most experts will agree that liposuction is much more accurately a body sculpting technique than a weight loss one.

Another common myth is that only women have this type of plastic surgery done. This has never been true, and men are turning to this option in growing numbers. Common target areas for men include the love handles and the abdomen.

Some people falsely believe that “liposuction” and a “tummy tuck” are interchangeable terms for the same procedure. The two procedures do go together quite nicely, however. A tummy tuck will address excess skin and underlying muscles, where lipo only deals with the excess fat.

One myth you will be happy to know is false is that liposuction will directly cause you to gain fat in other areas of your body. While it is true that weight gained in the future will likely not go to the areas of your body that were treated, it is not a given that this will happen. Proper diet and exercise can keep your entire body looking and feeling great.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

If you are interested in learning more about lipo and whether or not it is the right treatment option for you, get in touch with our team of professionals at Old Town Med Spa. A member of our team will be happy to speak with you. Scheduling your consultation is the first step in this process, which may be exactly what you have been needing to reach your body goals.

Old Town Med Spa has two locations in Chicago and proudly serves men and women throughout the surrounding areas. Contact us today to book a consultation for body sculpting. We look forward to speaking with you!

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Location

Old Town Med Spa
1341 North Sedgwick Street
Chicago, Illinois 60610
Phone: 312-643-1689
Email: info@oldtownmedspa.com

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Old Town Med Spa (Lincoln Park)
2266 N. Lincoln Ave, Unit 2
Chicago, Illinois 60614
Phone: 312-882-0700
Email: info@oldtownmedspa.com
At Old Town Med Spa, our team of professionals are dedicated to providing patients with the pinnacle in advanced beauty and relaxation care.

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