Old Town Med Spa

Chicago Medical Spa and Skin Care Clinic

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Old Town 312-643-1689
Lincoln Park 312-882-0700
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  • Home
  • About Us
  • Services
    • Body
      • Arm Tightening
      • Body Sculpting
        • CoolSculpting
        • CoolTone
        • Exilis Elite Skin Tightening
        • Liposuction
        • Trusculpt ID Body Contouring
        • Tummy Tuck
        • Vanquish Body Sculpting
      • Brazilian Butt Lift
      • Exilis Elite Skin Tightening
      • Renuvion Skin Tightening
      • Knee Tightening
      • Laser Services
        • Acne Treatment
        • Laser Hair Removal Chicago
        • Photorejuvenation
        • Tattoo Removal
      • Liposuction
      • Non-Surgical Butt Lift
      • Penile Enhancement with Fillers
      • Protégé Intima Labial Tightening
      • PRP
        • Stretch Mark and Scar Reduction
      • Rapid Weight Loss
        • Rapid Weight Loss Overview
        • What is HCG?
        • Rapid Weight Loss FAQs
        • Rapid Weight Loss Success Stories
      • Skin Tightening
        • Exilis Elite Skin Tightening
        • Ultherapy
      • Trusculpt ID Body Contouring
      • Tummy Tuck
      • Vanquish Body Sculpting
        • FAQS
        • What is Vanquish ME?
        • Vanquish ME News
        • Vanquish Success Stories
        • Vanquish Before & After Photos
        • Vanquish Videos – Non-Invasive Fat Reduction Videos
      • Vaser-assisted Liposuction
      • Vein Therapy
        • Facial Veins
        • Sclerotherapy
        • Spider & Reticular Vein Removal
    • Face
      • Facial Veins
      • Injectables & Fillers
        • BOTOX and Neurotoxins
          • Neurotoxin Injectables Overview
          • BOTOX Chicago
          • Botox For Migraine Headaches
          • TMJ Treatment
          • Dysport
          • Jeuveau
          • XEOMIN
        • Kybella Injections Cost
        • Dermal Fillers
          • Dermal Fillers Overview
          • Belotero
          • Bellafill
          • Juvederm Injections Chicago
          • Radiesse
          • Restylane
          • Versa
      • Jaw & Chin Augmentation
      • Renuvion Skin Tightening
      • Laser Services
        • Acne Treatment
        • Laser Hair Removal Chicago
        • Photorejuvenation
        • Tattoo Removal
      • Laser Skin Resurfacing
      • Latisse
      • Lip Augmentation
      • Neck Lift
      • Non-surgical Blepharoplasty
      • PDO Thread Face Lift
      • Plasma Pen
      • PRP
        • PRP Facial
        • Injection for Facial Rejuvenation
        • Hair Restoration
      • Silhouette Instalift
      • Skin Care
        • Microdermabrasion
        • Microneedling
        • Chemical Peels
          • Vi Peel
        • Dermaplaning
        • PCA Skin Care
        • Hydrafacial
      • Facial Sculpting
        • AGNES
        • Scarlet
        • Facial Sculpting Before & Afters
      • Skin Tightening
        • Exilis Elite Skin Tightening
        • Ultherapy
      • Trusculpt 3D
    • Regenerative Medicine
      • Pellet Hormone Replacement Therapy
      • Stem Cell Therapy
      • NeoGraft® Hair Restoration System
  • Products
    • Online Store
    • Gift Cards
  • MD Brothers
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What Is Restylane Lyft Used for?

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. 

Filed Under: Blog

Silhouette Instalift

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.

Filed Under: Blog

What Are PDO Threads? 12 Things To Know

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.

Filed Under: Blog

What Areas Can Be Treated With Liposuction?

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!

Filed Under: Blog

NeoGraft® Hair Restoration System


Are you discouraged by progressive hair loss? Do you experience pattern baldness or thin, frail hair and bald spots?  Do you want an effective treatment that offers natural-looking results? If so, NeoGraft hair restoration may be the treatment you’ve been waiting for! At Old Town Med Spa in Chicago, IL, we’re excited to offer this long-lasting treatment to help you look and feel your best.

What Is NeoGraft Hair Restoration? 

NeoGraft is a hair restoration treatment designed to address thinning hair and bald spots in men and women by transplanting hair follicles from one area of the scalp to another. It is able to deliver excellent results with little to no discomfort.

The treatment itself is minimally invasive and does not create a scar, unlike other treatments. Recovery is quick and easy for most patients, and results begin to develop in just 3-4 months.

How Does It Compare to Traditional Hair Loss Treatment? 

Originally, hair transplantation was accomplished by removing a strip of the scalp and harvesting follicles with a manual tool. The two edges of the scalp are closed at the back of the head, creating a distinctive linear scar. With NeoGraft, we safely and painlessly harvest individual hair follicles from the back of the scalp using a special handheld device connected to a sophisticated machine.

This process preserves the scalp, avoids a scar, and allows for quicker follicle implantation. Even better, it does not thin out the hair in the source area. Your final results can develop more quickly, giving you the hair you want in a shorter amount of time.

What Can I Expect?

Here is a general idea of what you can look forward to when you choose to pursue hair restoration at our professional office.

Consultation

Before you have your first treatment, one of our doctors will examine your scalp and hair loss to determine your candidacy for treatment. They will also answer any questions you may have about treatment or expected results.

Treatment

To begin your treatment, your doctor will administer anesthetic to ensure your comfort during the hair follicle extraction. The follicles will be extracted one-by-one with an efficient automated handheld device. Once they are extracted, these follicles can be placed and begin to grow in their new location. You can expect to be able to return to your normal activities after your appointment thanks to this treatment’s non-invasive nature.

Results

Once your follicles are in place, they will shed once before beginning to grow new hair. After 3-4 months, you should see significant hair growth begin. This growth will continue naturally, creating the appearance of thicker, more healthy hair. Results are permanent for most patients. If you experience progressive hair loss which may affect the treated area, your doctor can recommend a personalized treatment plan to maintain your ideal image.

Am I an Ideal Candidate?

In general, adult men and women who experience hair thinning or loss could be ideal candidates for this treatment. A good candidate should be healthy and experience mild to moderate hair loss. In addition, they must have enough healthy hair follicles in the back of their head to source their new hair growth. If you are unsure about your candidacy, one of our doctors can help evaluate your unique concerns.

Contact Us to Learn More! 

If you’re ready to say goodbye to hair loss and restore your natural, ideal image, contact our staff of professionals at Old Town Med Spa in Chicago, IL, to schedule an initial consultation today!

Filed Under: Blog

Does Plasma Pen Treatment Really Work?

At Old Town Med Spa in Chicago, Illinois, we are pleased to offer plasma pen treatments to our growing clientele. While plasma pen treatments are a fairly new cosmetic offering, they are growing in popularity, and with good reason.
 

What Is a Plasma Pen?

Throughout the world, the plasma pen is known as one of the most advanced skin lifting and tightening devices available. The pen is used to rejuvenate the skin, treating everything from wrinkles to lost elasticity. Using the pen, aestheticians and doctors are able to dramatically enhance the appearance of the skin without the need for more invasive procedures. 

The pen can be used to treat a number of issues without causing damage to any of the surrounding tissues. With FDA approval, the device is used to perform what is known as fibroblast therapy, targeting the fibroblast cells of the body. These cells are the most common cells found in the connective tissue of the body producing collagen.
 

How It Works

The plasma pen works by utilizing the power of plasma. You probably remember learning about solid, liquid, and gas as states of matter in school. Plasma is the fourth state of matter, which works by ionizing gases from the atmosphere to create a tiny electrical charge called an ARC. The pen distributes the ARC across the skin, although it never touches the skin itself. This is called Fibroblasting.
 
As the ARC moves across the skin, the skin’s natural healing properties are triggered, encouraging the release of collagen. Collagen then works to tighten and rejuvenate the surface and appearance of the skin.
 

Common Treatments Done With Plasma Pen

Fibroblast therapy is a great option that produces fantastic results for any area of the body. It is most commonly used, though, on the face and neck. There are literally dozens of great ways in which this therapy can offer relief, but some are more popular than others:
 

Neck Lines

If you’ve begun to notice folds or creases in the skin around your neck, you are not alone nor abnormal. Neck lines are a natural part of the aging process and are made more prevalent by certain lifestyle choices.

Smokers and those who have had long and frequent exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays typically notice neck lines begin to develop sooner than others. They can also be strongly affected by your genetics. While the visibility of neck lines is inevitable, the extent of the lines and other signs of aging can be reduced by fibroblast therapy.
 

Moles and Freckles

Moles and freckles are common and present as small dots on the surface of the skin. Freckles are usually considered to be paler brown and are often found in conjunction with pale skin and red hair, although they are not exclusive to any skin tone or hair type. They are usually made darker and more evident by sun exposure. Moles, on the other hand, are darker pigmented and can sometimes be raised from the skin as small lumps of tissue.
 
Both are beautiful features that can change the unique appearance of the person blessed to wear them. There are circumstances, though, where they become a nuisance and a person would simply rather be rid of them. In these situations, fibroblast therapy can be used to lighten the spot or even remove it altogether.
 

Marionette Lines

Marionette lines are a fun name assigned to the lines that develop around the mouth, resembling the way in which string puppets are constructed with opposable jaws and moving facial features. The marionette puppet features a split jaw so that the puppeteer can add movement to the puppet’s ability to speak.
 
When you look in the mirror, you may notice that these lines have begun to form on your face, as well. Humans develop these creases over time, which run from the outer corners of the mouth to the outer corners of the chin. Because of the way these lines form, you may notice that you have a perpetually pouty appearance.

Fibroblast pen therapy can help smooth these creases, taking years off your face and improving your resting expression.
 

Skin Tags

A skin tag is a piece of skin that is soft and hangs from the body. They may have what is called a peduncle or a stalk, which resembles the stem of a plant but is made of harder skin. Skin tags can be found anywhere on the body, but are especially common in areas where rubbing takes place.
 
These areas include places where the skin is rubbed by the waistline of pants or the straps of the bra and also where the thighs rub together while walking. Other names for skin tag include acrochordon, cutaneous papilloma, cutaneous tags, skin polyps, and soft fibromas. While very common, they usually don’t occur until after midlife, affecting both men and women with equal frequency.
 
Pen therapy can be used to reduce the size or even completely remove a skin tag, depending on the treatment required.
 

Age Spots

As you get older, you might notice small dark areas of the skin becoming more evident. Sometimes called “liver spots,” these areas vary in size and usually appear darker and more quickly on the skin that has been exposed to the most amount of sun. These areas include the face, shoulders, arms, and hands. They may also be called solar lentigines or sun spots.
 
These spots are most common in adults who are over the age of 50, but younger people can get them if they spend prolonged periods of time in the sun without protection. They often are alarming at first because they can look like cancerous growths, but if they are truly age spots, they won’t require any treatment and are actually harmless.

The skin has darkened in these areas as your body tried to protect itself from extended exposure to the harmful rays of the sun. For cosmetic reasons, though, you may want them removed or faded. Fibroblast therapy can fade age spots, returning skin to its original toning over time.
 

Scar Removal

Scars are permanent patches of skin that develop over a wound as it heals. They are common over deep scrapes or cuts or burns. They are also common among old medical incisions and with certain infections such as acne or chickenpox.
 
Because the skin that develops as a scar is often thicker and more darkly pigmented than the rest of the skin, they are typically obvious at first glance. Typically, they will fade over time, but they rarely ever completely go away without help. Pen fibroblast therapy can help treat the affected area, improving the odds of a more complete recovery.
 

Stretch Mark Treatment

Stretch marks, often called striae, are streaks that develop across the skin as a result of rapid skin growth. They are commonly found in the abdomen area, breasts, hips, buttocks, or thighs, although they can be found anywhere on the body. Typically associated with women, they are also found on male and female bodies.
 
Stretch marks are not usually painful and are not harmful, but they can be distressing in appearance and cause feelings of embarrassment, particularly when wearing a swimsuit or more revealing clothing. As such, many choose to look for ways to minimize the appearance of their stretch marks. Pen therapy can reduce the appearance of stretch marks.
 
While these are just some of the great ways that fibroblast therapy can help, don’t be dismayed if you are in need of help with something that is not on the list. Instead, speak to your specialist about how the pen might be helpful for your unique situation.
 

Does It Work?

The Plasma Pen has earned a strong reputation throughout the world as a reliable means to achieve rejuvenating and reformative skin results. There is no doubt about it- fibroblast therapy works and works well for most individuals.
 
Using the Fitzpatrick skin type scale, which is a scale used to determine the darkness of a person’s complexion, aestheticians have determined the Pen as a great option for skin types I-III. Those who have darker skin tones may not be good candidates, however. Speaking to a trained Pen therapist will better help you determine whether your needs can be met by this device.
 

Benefits of the Plasma Pen

No Bleeding

Because the pen doesn’t penetrate past the surface of the skin, there is no bleeding involved. This is a great benefit to those who struggle with the sight of blood or who are concerned about the length of time that will be required to heal after the treatment is completed. The entire process is less messy, less painful, and therefore less of a hassle than many other treatments.
 

Immediate Results

You will be able to see the results of fibroblast therapy on the first day. Fibroblasting is a popular option for pre-wedding refreshers and early afternoon off appointments because it doesn’t take a long time for results to become apparent, and there is no concern for a lengthy healing time and no soreness to contend with on your way to the “finish line.”
 

No Stitches Required

Again, because there is no pushing beyond the surface of the skin, stitches are not required. Unlike with more invasive options, you don’t need to worry about aftercare suture maintenance or risk of infection. With Pen therapy, treatment is easy to heal from and does not require extended time off.
 

Safe and Effective

With FDA approval and proven results, the Pen has shown itself to be a fantastic alternative to invasive procedures. There is nothing to worry about in regard to safety or concerns about long-term effects.
 

Long-Lasting Results

The results of Pen therapy last for a very long time–even years in some situations! When even invasive procedures are also likely to require a refresher over time, it’s great to know that it’s far easier to undergo follow-up pen therapy than it is to continually be going under the knife.
 
By now, you should have a pretty strong idea of whether or not fibroblast therapy is the correct route to your desired aesthetic outcome. If so, the only thing left standing between you and the look you are hoping for is making an appointment to meet a specialist who can guide you through the process.
 

Schedule Your Consultation Now

Call Old Town Med Spa in Chicago, Illinois for a Plasma Pen consultation today. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff are excited to help you and answer any questions you may have about whether fibroblast therapy is the right option for you.

Filed Under: Blog

CoolSculpting, Vanquish, and More: Which Body Sculpting Method is Right for You?

Each person has their own set of goals for their body. Even with hard work, sometimes our goals seem almost unattainable. You may find yourself spending hours each day exercising and carefully constructing a healthy diet, but you might require a little help to drop the extra weight. Or maybe the signs of aging are becoming more apparent with each passing day. At Old Town Med Spa in Chicago, IL, we offer a number of body sculpting treatments, giving you plenty of options to help you reach your body goals.

What Is Body Sculpting?

Also called body contouring, this is a treatment that applies heat, cold, or injectables to targeted areas aimed to get rid of fatty tissue. This term can be applied to any part of the body you want to have reshaped.

The main goal of these treatments is to take you closer to your ideal body goal by eliminating extra fat that seems resistant to your diet and exercise regimen. If you are close to your body goals but need additional assistance to get there, body sculpting will help.

The ultimate goal of treatment is to give the body a new shape. There are many things we may want to change in regards to our bodies, but it is important to be realistic about goals. At Old Town Med Spa, we work with you to determine the best course of treatment depending on your specific needs. Whether you are looking to freeze, melt, or burn the fat away, we offer safe and comfortable options!

Seven Types of Treatment

Depending on what you are hoping to accomplish, we offer seven different types of treatments. There are many benefits that come with each of our treatments, but it truly depends on what you are hoping to accomplish.

If you are just getting started in your journey and not sure which type of treatment is right for you, we have broken down each of our seven treatments to show you the highlights! It is a lot to consider, and we are here to answer any question you may have about any of the following treatments.

1. CoolSculpting

Approved by the FDA for cosmetic use in 2012, CoolScuptling is known to freeze the fat away. Using a special handheld applicator, our train professional will apply controlled coolness through the targeted areas. CoolScultping is typically used to remove fat in the following areas: 

  • Abdomen
  • Love handles
  • Back
  • Bra area
  • Arms
  • Banana roll

During your treatment, you are able to rest, read, or even scroll through Facebook as we freeze your fat away! Local fat deposits are frozen and then absorbed into the body’s lymphatic system, giving your body a new look.

CoolSculpting allows you to jump right back into your busy life after receiving treatment. After receiving treatment, you may begin to see a difference in a few weeks up to three months. Results can be long-lasting as we recommend patients continue exercising regularly and eating healthy.

2. CoolTone

CoolTone is a great option for people looking to improve their physique and strengthen muscle tone. This treatment works to strengthen and tone the muscles with MMS, also known as magnetic muscle stimulation.

Instead of just eliminating fat, CoolTone uses electromagnetic energy to cause the muscles to involuntary contract, which strengthens the muscle fibers in the targeted areas. This causes the muscles to be more defined, giving you a toned body.

Typically, patients have four treatments within two weeks, with each session lasting one to two hours, depending on the targeted area. The number of sessions depends on your exact needs, and we will work with you to come up with the perfect plan for you. If you have been attempting to rid yourself of certain pockets of fat but have been unsuccessful with dieting and exercise, CoolTone may help you reach your goals.

3. Liposuction

Liposuction is a popular treatment for people looking to reach results more quickly. This procedure is aimed to rid your body of stubborn fat that is unwilling to leave even with diet and exercising. This is not an alternative to major weight loss and should not take the place of a healthy diet and exercise.

The excess fat is removed from the target area using a small tube, which suctions the fat from the body. Liposuction can be performed on many areas of the body, including: 

  • Thighs 
  • Hips 
  • Buttocks 
  • Upper arms 
  • Back 
  • Abdomen 
  • Waist 
  • Chest area 
  • Inner knee 
  • Calves 
  • Ankles 
  • Cheeks 
  • Chin 
  • Neck

Compared to other forms of treatment, liposuction brings immediate results. These results are long-lasting as long as you maintain a healthy lifestyle with a healthy diet and proper exercise.

4. TruSculpt ID Body Contouring

Using radiofrequency, the TruSculpt ID system applies heat to target fat, allowing it to break down. In this process, the body is able to eliminate the fat cells, leaving the targeted area naturally slimmer. Targeted areas of treatment for TruSculpt ID body contouring include: 

  • Abdomen 
  • Back 
  • Upper arms 
  • Chin 
  • Flanks
  • Outer and inner things

The treatment itself typically takes 15-60 minutes depending on the targeting area, and results will appear gradually.

5. Vanquish ME 

Have you ever thought about melting your fat away? After a long, excruciating hour of exercise, you may feel like you see zero results! Vanquish ME can melt that fat away. Using a radiofrequency device, Vanquish ME targets the fat cells by heating them up, allowing them to be absorbed naturally by the body.

Vanquish ME eliminates fat in the: 

  • Waistline 
  • Midsection 
  • Love handles 
  • Muffin top 

6. Exilis Elite Skin Tightening

Using targeted heat to treat loose skin, Exilis Elite Skin Tightening can give your face and neck a younger-looking appearance. The device uses radio-frequency to stimulate the production of natural collagen. As we all age, our bodies begin to produce limited amounts of collagen each day, and this treatment can help restore those dwindling numbers.

This treatment is most commonly used to reduce the many signs of aging, including lines and wrinkles, but it has the ability to firm lax skin, as well. Exilis Elite Skin Tightening is generally used in the following areas:

  • Face 
  • Chest
  • Abdomen 
  • Back 
  • Thighs 
  • Buttocks

Exilis Elite Skin Tightening offers long-lasting results with zero downtime, making it possible to go about your normal activities after receiving treatment. The purpose of this treatment is to improve the quality and texture of the skin, and results are intended to be gradual. Results may last more than two years, and younger-looking skin usually becomes noticeable around three months after treatment.

7. Tummy Tuck

The tummy tuck is used to get rid of excess skin that typically occurs after extreme weight loss or even as we age. Our non-surgical tummy tuck option uses polydioxanone (PDO) absorbable threads that lift and smooth out the loose skin. These threads are typically used during cardiothoracic procedures! The PDO threads are inserted into the targeted area, where they will dissolve on their own over time.

The tummy tuck may be a good option for you if you want to obtain a subtle change, improve the look of loose skin, or enhance some features that may have been lost due to aging. Full results from the tummy tuck may be visible in four to six months and typically last for more than a year.

Are You a Good Candidate to Receive Treatment?

If you have been searching for ways to get rid of stubborn fat or wanting to appear younger once again, you may be a good candidate for receiving body sculpting treatment. To be a good candidate to receive treatment, you should be able to answer yes to all of the following questions:

  • Are you a healthy adult?
  • Have you stopped trying to lose a lot of weight?
  • Do you maintain a healthy lifestyle?
  • Are you positive and realistic about your goals? 
  • Are you a non-smoker (specifically for skin tightening treatments)?
  • Are you free of any medical conditions that may increase your risk for surgery?
  • Are you free of any medical conditions that may impair your healing process?

If you are able to answer yes to the questions above, then you may be a good candidate. If you answered no to any of the questions above, you may still qualify to receive treatment. We can discuss your options with you.

A Healthy Lifestyle Is Key

Before receiving treatment, it is important to have an established, healthy lifestyle, as this can be difficult to begin after treatment. Once you see results, you may fall back into old habits and find yourself needing treatment again. We want you to be successful in your weight loss journey! 
None of the treatments mentioned should be used in place of diet and exercise. These treatments are to enhance your hard work and keep you motivated to keep going every day. If this sounds like you, then you may be a good candidate to receive treatment!

Since some of our treatments use radiofrequency, candidates who have metallic implants, like pacemakers and defibrillators, will not be able to receive that form of treatment. Thankful, we do offer plenty of other options to help you reach your goals!

Aspects to Consider Before Receiving Treatment

The treatments mentioned above have been proven effective, but it is important to restate that results may vary from person to person. During your initial consultation, we will discuss your goals before a treatment plan has been created so we can understand precisely what you are hoping to accomplish.

With many of our treatments, you are able to resume your everyday activities. That being said, if you decide to receive a treatment that requires some downtime, you will need to keep this in mind before scheduling the actual treatment.

Schedule Your Initial Consultation Today!

If you have been struggling to get rid of those extra pockets of fat or hate the many signs of aging on your body, body sculpting can help. Contact us at Old Town Med Spa in Chicago, Il., to schedule your initial consultation. Deciding to receive body sculpting treatment is a positive decision, and we want you to feel comfortable with your choice. We are happy to answer any questions you may have regarding any of our treatment options. It is our goal to help you reach yours!

Filed Under: Blog

Ultherapy FAQs: How Soon Will You See Results?

Do you notice your skin losing its elasticity as you grow older? Are you concerned by the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles on your face, neck, and chest? Do you want to correct signs of aging and achieve natural, more youthful results without invasive surgery? Ultherapy is a revolutionary skin-rejuvenating treatment that uses the power of ultrasound energy to stimulate deep-level collagen production and lift the skin. Visit us at Old Town Med Spa in Chicago, IL, where we’re proud to offer this top-quality treatment option. Keep reading to learn more, or call us to set up your personal consultation. 

What Is Ultherapy? 

Ultherapy is a non-invasive anti-aging treatment designed to safely stimulate the body’s collagen production. Using ultrasound technology, this treatment warms the skin with short, concentrated blasts of energy.

This instantly triggers the body’s healing response and, over the next several weeks, fresh collagen is produced to repair and rejuvenate the targeted skin. This essential structural protein reinforces your skin’s framework and can produce long-lasting results, which begin to appear in the first weeks after treatment.

These results typically include smoother, softer, and more vibrant skin on your face, neck, and chest. You should also notice that your skin has a new glow after treatment thanks to the healing process stimulated by treatment. The treatment process itself is straightforward, involves no discomfort, requires zero downtime, and produces noticeable, long-lasting results for the majority of our patients.

Which Concerns Can Be Addressed?

Ultherapy can restore your skin’s overall health by rejuvenating the lower layers and stimulating new collagen production. However, this process can specifically benefit patients who are seeking treatment for common signs of aging.

Fine Lines

Fine lines can begin developing in your mid-20s and typically appear around the eyes, across the forehead, and at the corners of the mouth. They can deepen over time and are challenging to conceal.

Many patients in their late 20s and early 30s begin seeking an easy, non-invasive solution for fine lines to keep signs of aging at bay and refresh their skin. This treatment can effectively smooth away fine lines, making them virtually invisible by boosting collagen levels and creating a tighter, firmer skin texture.

Wrinkles

Wrinkles and folds in the skin are the classic side effect of aging. They can develop on the face, neck, and chest. As with other signs of aging, their development can be accelerated by harmful sun exposure, which damages the skin and impacts its healing abilities.

This treatment can help minimize wrinkles by tightening the skin, temporarily erasing wrinkles and folds, and even preventing the development of further signs of aging with regular treatments. In general, those with mild to moderate wrinkles see great success in treating this issue.  

Skin Laxity

One of the main side effects of the decline in collagen levels accompanying the aging process is skin laxity. As your skin’s collagen framework begins to deteriorate and your body’s production of collagen slows, your skin begins to droop or sag.

This can especially affect the skin on your face, which may appear to be pulled downwards as you grow older. This treatment can help tighten the skin, giving you a subtle yet noticeable lift and temporarily reversing this common aging concern.

How Does It Compare to Other Popular Treatments? 

There are a vast number of anti-aging treatments and procedures available today, and it can be difficult to decide which option is right for you. In general, laser therapy and facelift surgery are the two most popular anti-aging treatments. However, Ultherapy offers advantages for patients who may not want to pursue these options.

Laser therapy is effective at addressing aging concerns on the surface of the skin, including dark spots, fine lines, wrinkles, and sun damage. However, it lacks the ability to impact the lower levels of the skin without causing discomfort or even burns to the top layers. Facelift surgery is still considered the longest-lasting anti-aging procedure available, lasting 10-15 years on average. However, not every patient is an ideal candidate for this surgery.

Those with mild to moderate signs of aging could benefit from a less invasive treatment that involves lower risks, fewer side effects, and zero downtime. In addition, Ultherapy is far more cost-effective for the majority of patients. With this treatment, your skin is preserved from unnecessary trauma and you are able to achieve long-lasting, attractive results without an invasive procedure.

How Many Treatments Do I Need?

Your specific treatment plan will depend on your unique situation and ideal results. One of our doctors will help you evaluate your skin and recommend a personalized treatment plan during your initial consultation. However, most patients achieve their desired results in just one treatment.

If you need more than one treatment, these appointments are spaced approximately 3-4 months apart to allow your skin to heal properly. In addition, you can safely pursue follow-up treatments to maintain your ideal image and prolong your final results.

How Soon Will I See Results? 

Many patients see an improvement in the appearance of their skin in the first few weeks after treatment. However, the long-lasting effects of collagen take between 2-3 months to develop. Once the structure of your skin is reinforced in the lower layers, you can expect to see significant improvement in your areas of concern.

How Long Does It Last? 

This treatment produces results lasting up to 2 years. Many patients opt to have touch-up treatments to help prolong their results. In addition, patients who follow their doctor’s instructions regarding aftercare can see longer results. Your individual results will vary based on your skin type, the nature of your skin concerns, and how carefully you care for your skin after the treatment.

What Should I Expect? 

You may be wondering what you can expect from this treatment. While each patient’s experience is unique, here is a basic outline of what you can look forward to:

Consultation

Your first appointment will be with one of our experienced doctors. During this initial consultation, your doctor will examine your areas of concern, review your medical history and past anti-aging treatments, and discuss your desired results.

If you are approved for treatment, your doctor will recommend a personalized treatment plan. They will also give you a better idea of what you can expect during treatment and recovery. Once this appointment is complete, you can begin preparing for your first treatment session.

Preparation

To prepare for this treatment, we recommend that you avoid blood-thinning and anti-inflammatory medications and some herbal supplements at least 1 week before your appointment. These medications can cause an increased risk of bleeding or bruising during and after treatment.

You should also avoid any skin care treatment or product that could irritate your skin before treatment. Finally, make sure to follow any specific instructions your doctor provides to ensure optimal results.

Treatment

On the day of your appointment, avoid wearing makeup in the target areas. Your doctor will clean your skin and apply a topical numbing agent to keep you comfortable during your treatment. They will then use the specialized handheld ultrasound device to begin treating your skin.

As your doctor passes this device over your skin, you may feel a warming sensation. However, the process itself should be completely painless. The ultrasound energy heats the lower layers of your skin, instantly stimulating a healing response in the body that will continue to develop after your appointment.

A typical appointment for the face only takes just 30 minutes, while a combination treatment for the neck and chest could make your appointment last 60-90 minutes in total. Once your doctor is finished, you can return to your normal daily activities with zero downtime.

Recovery

The recovery process for this treatment is incredibly easy. For the first 2-3 days, you may notice some mild tenderness and redness in the treated area. This is a normal reaction to the healing process and should subside quickly. We recommend that you wear sunscreen and avoid direct sun exposure for the first several days after treatment to avoid irritating your skin as it heals.

Your skin should feel back to normal less than a week after treatment. The longer-term effects of treatment will develop over the next 2-3 months as collagen production lifts and smooths your skin.

Results

Final results should be visible 2-3 months after your appointment. You should be able to see fine lines and wrinkles smoothed away and loose skin lifted and tightened by your new collagen framework. You can expect your results to last approximately 2 years. If needed, you can pursue touch-up treatments during this time.

To effectively prolong your results, we recommend that you avoid harmful sun exposure and wear sunscreen regularly. The sun can accelerate most signs of aging and could affect the longevity of your results. Most of our patients return for additional treatments once their final results begin to fade in order to maintain their ideal image.

Am I an Ideal Candidate?

If you are an adult man or woman who wants a non-invasive treatment to improve signs of aging in your face, neck, or chest, you could be an ideal candidate for Ultherapy! Good candidates are generally healthy, experience mild to moderate skin laxity, and are free from any medical or skin conditions that could interact negatively with treatment.

You may be an ideal candidate if you are a younger patient with mild signs of aging who wishes to rejuvenate your skin. You could also benefit from this treatment if you are not able to have a surgical procedure to address your concerns. Finally, if you have had a facelift surgery in the past and want to enhance your results, this treatment could be a good option for you.

You may not be an ideal candidate if you have an active skin infection or irritation at the time of your appointment. In addition, this treatment may not be right for you if you experience severe skin laxity or wrinkles, which may be better addressed by a different treatment option. If you have any questions about your candidacy for treatment, one of our doctors can help you evaluate your personal situation during your initial consultation.

Contact Us for More Information! 

Don’t let signs of aging steal your confidence. With Ultherapy, you could see your skin restored in just one treatment and watch lines and wrinkles fade before your eyes. Best of all, treatment is completely non-invasive and doesn’t require you to put your life on hold. To learn more about this transformative treatment, contact our team of experts at Old Town Med Spa in Chicago, IL, to schedule an initial consultation today! We look forward to serving you at one of our two locations in the city, and we can’t wait to help you achieve your aesthetic goals!

Filed Under: Blog

What Is Body Contouring? 11 Things to Know

It can be difficult to eliminate unwanted body fat with diet and exercise alone. Liposuction is a treatment that can eliminate stubborn fat, but you may be reluctant to go through with a surgery. Body contouring is a safer way to remove fat without surgery. If you want to know which treatment is right for you, contact Old Town Med Spa in Chicago, IL. We offer a variety of non-invasive fat elimination treatments that can provide you with spectacular results.

What Is Body Contouring?

Body contouring is a non-invasive and non-surgical fat elimination treatment that rivals liposuction in its effectiveness. There are a variety of contouring technologies that are designed to help you achieve a more lean figure without hours in the gym and months of dieting. After your contouring treatment, you will have little or no downtime because the treatments do not require an incision or sutures. You can lose inches of fat from your waistline and various other areas where fat deposits. Even stubborn fat that does not respond to traditional methods can be eliminated quickly.

11 Things to Know About Body Contouring

You Have Two Great Contouring Options at Old Town Med Spa

At Old Town Med Spa, we offer two great body contouring treatments to remove unwanted fat from your body without surgery. 

CoolSculpting

CoolSculpting is an FDA-cleared treatment that is designed to freeze fat cells to reduce stubborn pockets of body fat. The technology was developed by Allergan and uses cryolipolysis to freeze and eliminate unwanted fat. The device applies suction to your skin to break up the fat and freezes the fat cells to be eliminated. Over several weeks, the fat cells are removed from your body as waste.

TruSculpting

TruSculpt 3D is a contouring treatment from Cutera that uses monopolar radiofrequency, or RF, energy to melt away fat. The RF energy heats the fat cells until they are destroyed but will not harm the skin or tissue. The handpiece monitors the temperature to apply precise amounts of heat without overheating the target area. Fat cells that are destroyed will slowly be removed from the body as waste.

Treat Many Areas of the Body

CoolSculpting and TruSculpt 3D can treat almost every part of the body where stubborn fat is deposited. This includes problem areas like “love handles,” “double chin,” and “banana rolls.” The CoolSculpting device uses various applicators to treat nine areas of the body. It can eliminate fat from the neck, abdomen, back, bra strap area, beneath the buttocks, flanks, upper arms, inner thighs, and outer thighs.

TruSculpt 3D can be used to eliminate fat on almost every part of the body. Some of the most common areas for treatment are the upper arms, chin area, back, flanks, abdomen, and thighs.

The Treatment Is Painless

TruSculpt 3D and CoolSculpting can both be performed with no pain. The treatments do not require any anesthetic to perform and will not cause harm to the tissue or skin. You may feel the suction from the device during your CoolSculpting session and some slight tingling. This sensation normally turns to numbness as the treatment begins to work. After your treatment, you will not require any pain medication.

TruSculpt 3D is comfortable, and some even enjoy the experience. The handpiece is designed to glide over the skin while performing the treatment, so you will not feel any suction or pulling. The RF energy from the device produces a warmth that can be felt for the duration of the treatment. Patients note that the sensation is much like a hot stone massage. You will not experience bleeding or scarring after non-surgical contouring. You will also not need to return for drainage or suture removal like you would after liposuction.

You’ll Feel Great While You Reach Your Body Goals

Body contouring can help you reach your ideal body shape faster than diet and exercise. Some stubborn fat is almost impossible to eliminate with diet and exercise alone, and a contouring treatment can be the solution to eliminating this stubborn fat. If you are already at your ideal weight and just want to reduce the appearance of small deposits of fat, this treatment can provide great results. If you are looking to eliminate remaining pockets of fat after a weight loss routine, contouring can also help you.

TruSculpt 3D can reduce the thickness of fat from the target area by 24% in a single treatment session. The treatment compresses the fat and helps you achieve a lean and slim figure. CoolSculpting can reduce fat thickness by 20% to 25% after a single session. Both treatments can help you eliminate stubborn fat and trim inches from your waistline and other parts of the body. You may find your clothes fit more comfortably after the treatment, and you may even be able to wear a smaller clothing size. Reaching your ideal body shape will improve not only your appearance but also your confidence.

Expect Gradual Results

Surgery and liposuction can provide you with quick and significant results, but if you want your transformation to appear natural, non-surgical body contouring is a better option. TruSculpt 3D and CoolSculpting destroy fat cells during the treatment but rely on the lymphatic system to eliminate the fat cells as waste. This means that the fat is removed from the body more gradually, and you will only notice the reduction in fat as the cells are broken down and eliminated from the body.

A lymphatic drainage massage can aid in the waste removal process, but it is not a necessity, and your lymphatic system should be able to eliminate the fat cells without any issues. If you choose TruSculpt 3D to meet your needs, you will notice results after one month. The results will peak approximately three months after your first session. If CoolSculpting is your treatment of choice, you will enjoy results between one and three months after the treatment. You can reach your body goal when the results peak six months after the treatment. The results appear as if you achieved them through diet and exercise because the fat reduction occurs gradually.

You May Only Need One or Two Sessions

Whether you choose TruSculpt 3D or CoolSculpting to reach your body goal, you will probably complete your treatment after only two sessions. You may even see the results you want after only one session. If you need more than one session, your second CoolSculpting session will be scheduled at least four weeks after your first session. Each CoolSculpting session takes as little as 35 minutes to complete, and most treatments can be completed in an hour. TruSculpt 3D sessions are held approximately six weeks apart and can be completed in 15 minutes for small areas. Larger areas like the abdomen and flanks can be finished in one hour.

You Are Likely a Good Candidate

If you are a healthy adult and near your ideal weight, you are eligible for body contouring. Patients of every age, gender, and skin tone can enjoy non-surgical fat elimination with TruSculpt 3D and CoolSculpting. These treatments can help you eliminate stubborn pockets of fat from your body, but they are not an ideal solution for weight loss or a treatment for obesity.

Before your first session, we will determine if the treatment will be safe and effective for your body transformation during an initial consultation. We can customize the treatment and help you understand what to expect from the treatment.

Contouring treatments are not recommended if you are pregnant or nursing. During our consultation, let us know if you have allergies, any recent surgeries, or a pre-existing hernia. CoolSculpting will not be recommended if you have a condition that is affected by sensitivity to cold. TruSculpt 3D may not be performed if you have a metal implant.

You Won’t Need to Miss Work

You can get back to work or your normal routine after your TruSculpt 3D or CoolSculpting treatment. This means that you won’t need to take a leave of absence from your work and possibly miss wages. Both treatments can be performed with no downtime and no recovery needed.

Since the treatments can be completed in a short amount of time without downtime, you can schedule your treatment during a lunch break if you have limited free time after work. The treatments are both completed in our Chicago Med Spa without an overnight stay or hospitalization. You can drive, work out, and walk around immediately after the treatment without any problems.

Your Results Can Be Long-Lasting

Fat elimination results from both TruSculpt 3D and CoolSculpting can last a lifetime. Neither treatment requires touch-up sessions to maintain your results. The fat cells that are eliminated from your body are permanently eliminated and will not be restored under normal circumstances. Your body fat is made up of a limited number of cells that enlarge when you gain weight. When these cells are eliminated, there are fewer cells to enlarge. You will not see as much fat growth in the treated area after weight gain; instead, any fat growth will be distributed mostly in untreated areas.

For prolonged results, we recommend living a healthy lifestyle after your treatment. Any exercise and dieting will only improve your treatment results. You may find it easier to maintain a healthy lifestyle after your treatment because of the confidence boost that a lean and fit body provides you. You will likely be motivated to go to the gym and eat healthy food.

You Won’t Lose Much Weight

If you are hoping to lose a significant amount of weight, CoolSculpting and TruSculpt 3D will not likely live up to your expectations. The treatments are excellent for eliminating fat to improve your appearance, but fat does not weigh much. You may lose a few pounds, but a majority of your body weight comes from muscle, tissue, organs, bones, and liquid. In a comparable volume, fat weighs less than muscle.

It Is More Affordable Than You Might Think

Your contouring treatment will not likely be covered by your health insurance plan, but the treatment is still quite affordable. The price depends on the number of sessions you need to reach your goal and the size of the area being treated. We can provide you with a customized plan and your price options when you contact Old Town Med Spa for more information. Non-surgical treatments tend to be more affordable than liposuction because you will not need to pay for an expensive hospital stay and it is not necessary to miss work.

Which Treatment Is Right for You?

If you are ready to find out which treatment will give you the best results, visit Old Town Med Spa in Chicago, IL for an initial consultation today. You can have the lean body you want in after a single treatment with no surgery or downtime.

Filed Under: Blog

What Is Body Sculpting? 16 Things to Know

Are you looking to lose those last stubborn inches from your waist? If you have not seen any changes in your body fat after hours in the gym and weeks of dieting, it may be time to speak to a professional. Body sculpting is a treatment to eliminate stubborn fat for good without diet and exercise. Contact Old Town Med Spa in Chicago, IL if you have any questions about the treatments we offer. There are a range of factors in deciding if treatment is right for you and which treatment to choose, and we’ve listed the 16 things you must know about our sculpting treatments.

16 Things to Know About Body Sculpting

What Is Body Sculpting?

Body sculpting, or body contouring, is a treatment designed to remove unwanted fat and tighten the skin. The treatment results in a flat and fit looking body without the need for months of intense workouts and dieting. Modern body contouring treatments do not require invasive surgical procedures or liposuction to get spectacular results. Treatment sessions are quick and patients are not subject to extensive recovery times.

What Are the Different Types of Sculpting Treatments?

There are a variety of sculpting treatments available to suit many patients’ needs. At Old Town Med Spa in Chicago, we offer CoolSculpting and Vanquish ME as some of our most popular and effective body contouring treatments. We also offer liposuction and several skin-tightening procedures for patients looking for something slightly different.

What Is CoolSculpting?

CoolSculpting is an FDA-approved fat removal treatment that can be used on nine areas of the body. Allergan developed CoolSculpting from cryolipolysis research conducted at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston. A doctor uses the CoolSculpting device to sculpt your body in the area where treatment is requested. The unwanted fat is frozen and destroyed by the process of cryolipolysis, and the fat is naturally removed from the body as waste. The removal of fat will cause no changes to a patient’s daily life and can be improved with a lymphatic drainage massage.

What Is Vanquish ME?

Vanquish ME, or Maximum Energy, is an FD- approved sculpting treatment developed by BTL Aesthetics for the removal of unwanted fat. The treatment uses selective radiofrequency energy to eliminate fat cells. Vanquish ME is unique because it can be used for patients who have a BMI over 30 and uses a device that makes no contact with the skin. The treatment heats the fat cells to 120-degrees Fahrenheit to eliminate them but does not heat the tissue or skin enough to cause damage. The destroyed fat cells are naturally removed from the body as waste.

What Are the Treatable Areas?

CoolSculpting is FDA approved to treat nine parts of the body. Patients can remove unwanted fat from their flanks, abdomen, inner thighs, and outer thighs for a thin and smooth midsection. CoolSculpting even works on sensitive areas like submental fat on the neck or “double chin”. The lower back, bra strap area, upper arms, and fat below the buttocks or “banana roll” can also be treated with CoolSculpting.

Vanquish ME can be used to treat a large area of the body at one time. The treatment is concentrated on the midsection and uses a device that will wrap around your waist without touching the skin. The waistline can be reduced by 2 to 4 inches, making pants fit better and even reducing a patient’s clothing size. Other areas where stubborn fat is deposited, such as the abdomen, flanks, hips, upper and lower back, inner thighs and outer thighs, can be treated with Vanquish ME at the same time.

Is It Safe?

CoolSculpting and Vanquish ME are safe for most patients. The treatments are FDA approved and are painless. CoolSculpting patients can often pass the time reading a book or using a mobile device. Patients note feeling the pulling sensation of the suction device and may experience tingling at first, but the sensation eventually subsides as the treatment area becomes numb. The treatment may be followed by some minor swelling and redness for several hours.

Vanquish ME causes no pain or discomfort. Patients note feeling like a large heating pad has been placed on their midsection. The device is designed to heat fat up to 120-degrees Fahrenheit, but it only heats surrounding tissue and skin to a comfortable 101-degrees. Both treatments will leave no scars and are much safer than liposuction or surgical procedures that are invasive and require lengthy recovery time.

What Are the Benefits of CoolSculpting and Vanquish ME?

If a patient has lost weight and has tried and failed to get rid of the last, stubborn fat, a body contouring treatment is probably the right solution. Body contouring can provide a sense of accomplishment, confidence, and improved self-image. Many patients have fewer problems getting out and going to the gym after their treatment. CoolSculpting and Vanquish ME can help patients reduce their pants or dress size, lose inches off their waistline, and lower their BMI without the need for intense diet and exercise.

When Will I See Results?

CoolSculpting results may take some time. In clinical studies, most patients reached their desired results after four months. Patients will notice a reduction in fat during the first three months, and the results may continue to improve until the sixth month. This depends on the number of treatment sessions needed and the amount of fat being removed. The treatment appears to progress naturally because the eliminated fat is naturally removed from the body. Patients can see a 20% to 25% reduction in fat in the treated area after only one session.

Vanquish ME patients will see their final results approximately two weeks after their final treatment session. This means that patients will see their desired results by the eighth or tenth week of their treatment. This depends on the number of treatments the patient needs. Many patients notice a change after only their first session. Vanquish ME can result in up to a 59% reduction in fat around the midsection.

How Long Does Each Session Take?

A CoolSculpting session takes only 35 minutes for smaller areas and less than an hour in most cases. Patients can have multiple areas treated in a single session, but this does mean treatment time is extended. CoolSculpting can be completed in a single session, and for most patients, only two sessions will provide their desired results. If more than one session is needed, the patient must wait at least one month before the second session.

Vanquish ME sessions can be completed in 30 to 45 minutes regardless of the areas being treated because the device treats multiple areas simultaneously. Most patients need between four and six treatments to reach their goal, and each treatment is spaced one week apart.

How Long Do the Results Last?

CoolSculpting and Vanquish ME can provide long-lasting results for a majority of patients. Patients who live a healthy lifestyle by getting enough exercise and eating healthy have the best results and the most prolonged results. The treatments eliminate fat cells in the treated areas permanently, and they will not regenerate. CoolSculpting does not require any touch-ups for a majority of patients but can be used for those who have gained weight or gone through childbirth after the treatment. Vanquish ME also provides results without the need for touch-up treatments.

Can CoolSculpting or Vanquish ME Be Used for Weight Loss?

CoolSculpting and Vanquish ME are not a means for weight loss. Fat does not weigh much, so eliminating fat will not cause a dramatic loss of weight. Both treatments can help clothing fit better and reduce a patient’s waistline by several inches. Vanquish ME provides a greater reduction in fat and can be used by patients with a BMI over 30. Patients looking for a more significant loss of weight or fat should speak with their doctor.

How Should You Prepare for Treatment?

Preparation for CoolSculpting or Vanquish ME is simple. Patients can diet and exercise to improve their results and will meet with Dr. Gharbi to discuss their treatment options. CoolSculpting patients should remain within 10 pounds of their weight from their initial consultation to the first treatment session.

What Is the Recovery Like?

Patients who undergo CoolSculpting or Vanquish ME will not have an extensive recovery time. Most patients have no downtime after the treatment and can return to their daily routine or work immediately after treatment. The treatment is completed in our Chicago office and requires no overnight stays. Some patients even schedule their treatment during their lunch break and return to work afterward.

Body sculpting treatments are an excellent alternative to liposuction and surgical procedures that can result in several days of downtime. Vanquish ME patients are encouraged to stay hydrated and get some light exercise before and after the treatment.

Is It Expensive?

Body sculpting treatments can range in price depending on the location where the treatment is being performed, the number of sessions, and the size of the area being treated. For more information on our prices, contact Old Town Med Spa in Chicago, IL. CoolSculpting and Vanquish ME are both voluntary cosmetic treatments and are not covered by most health insurance plans. For more information about your insurance benefits, contact your health insurance provider.

Who Is the Ideal Candidate for CoolSculpting and Vanquish Me?

CoolSculpting and Vanquish ME is best for those who are healthy but looking to remove deposits of stubborn fat from their body. Men and women of all ages and skin tones can benefit from body contouring treatment. Both treatments can be performed quickly and involve no downtime, so busy patients can enjoy results without a large commitment of time.

Who Is treatment Unsafe for?

CoolSculpting and Vanquish ME are not recommended for women who are pregnant or nursing. Patients who have an active infection should speak to their doctor before going for treatment. Patients who have had recent surgery or other body contouring procedures should also talk to their doctor about the possible impact treatment might have.

Inform Dr. Gharbi if you have any allergies or recent surgeries. CoolSculpting is not recommended for those patients with conditions that cause sensitivity to cold, such as cryoglobulinemia. Vanquish ME is not recommended for patients with metal implants. Any treatments will be carried out only if it is determined that the treatment is beneficial and safe for each patient.

Take the First Step to Your Desired Body Goal

If you want to discover more about body sculpting, visit Old Town Med Spa in Chicago, IL for an initial consultation. We can help you determine if Vanquish ME or CoolSculpting will provide you with better results and help you get treated quickly and effectively. Both treatments are safe and do not require downtime, so patients can quickly get back to their normal routine.

Filed Under: Blog

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