The Interesting History of Silicone Breast Implants
Silicone breast implants have gone the distance in restoring confidence for patients opting for both aesthetic and reconstructive procedures.
Yet given how commonplace implants are in modern plastic surgery breast augmentation and reconstruction procedures, you may have never considered the history of silicone breast implants.
There was a time in the not-too-distant past when breast implants didn’t exist at all.
The Years Before Breast Implants
Women who wanted to increase their breast size in 1889 were limited to paraffin and vaseline injections for breast augmentation. While breasts became larger, they were also hard. And patients experienced severe inflammation and disfiguration.
In 1895, a surgeon who had removed a breast tumor grafted a benign fatty tumor from the patient’s back to essentially reconstruct the breast. While this worked to some degree, it was still less than ideal.
Surgeons continued to experiment with various implant materials through the early to mid-20th century. These included wool, ground rubber, ivory, glass balls, polyethylene chips, polyether foam sponge, and teflon-silicone prostheses. They also began to experiment with different surgical methods to increase the volume of the breast, such as a rotational flap.
It wasn’t until the 1950s that silicone was first injected into the breast. The results were positive initially. But eventually, the formation of silicone granulomas caused the breasts to harden. In some cases, it was severe enough to warrant a mastectomy.
Silicone would, however, be a game changer.
The History of Breast Implants Began With Silicone
By the early 1960s, surgeons worked in tandem with laboratories to encapsulate silicone to make it safer. In 1962, the first augmentation mammoplasty was performed using a silicone implant.
While these implants were a huge improvement over the early days of injecting foreign materials, they were not without their problems. And in 1976, the U.S. Congress passed the 1976 Medical Device Amendments to the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to classify them as moderate risk (Class II) devices and were required to comply with general controls and performance standards.
By the 1980s, there were concerns about associations between breast implants, particularly silicone-filled, and serious health issues. As such the FDA reclassified breast implants into Class III higher-risk products that required premarket approval. Manufacturers needed to provide data demonstrating the devices were safe.
1992 was the turning point year for implants. It was in this year that the FDA decided that breast implant manufacturers did not adequately address public concerns about certain complications. Rather than selecting the devices with a poor record, they removed all silicone gel-filled breast implants from the market.
Silicone implants during this time could not be used for elective surgery – though they were still available for breast reconstruction after mastectomy, replacement of existing implants, and correction of congenital deformities.
The formation of the Breast Implant Adjust Studies was developed to begin to gather data.
The Next Generation of Breast Implants
Throughout the 1990s, women seeking breast augmentation for cosmetic purposes were offered saline-filled implants.
Meanwhile, studies continued on silicone implants. And so did the implants’ evolution. By the mid to late1990s, the development of textured, anatomic, and highly cohesive silicone implants were ready for submission for FDA studies in the United States. In 1999, a comprehensive report of those studies was released that concluded there was no evidence that silicone breast implants caused systemic health problems.
It wouldn’t be until 2006, after a clinical study that followed hundreds of women with silicone implants, that the FDA would finally determine them as safe and effective – allowing women to make informed decisions about their use based on known risks and benefits. In 2011, the FDA released an update on silicone implants’ safety and found no apparent association between them and reproductive problems, breast cancer, or connective tissue disease.
Finally, in 2012, the FDA approved the first high-strength silicone implant, Known as the gummy bear, this implant is a soft yet solid gel filler with a remarkably low failure rate. Approved in Europe two decades before the U.S., These form-stable fillers allow the manufacturer to create implants that are shaped for a far more natural appearance.
What’s next in the world of breast implants? Stay tuned.
Insist on a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon
Now that you know the history of breast implants, you may be feeling a lot more secure in your decision to have a breast augmentation procedure.
And why not? You deserve the confidence that comes with feeling good about your appearance.
So if you’re ready to speak with a board-certified plastic surgeon, contact us today. With these highly cohesive, textured, and shaped implants, you and your surgeon will have a wide selection of options in choosing the best one for you.
The Latest Advances in Minimally Invasive Cosmetic Procedures
Just as in about every other industry on the planet, technology is making itself known in the field of plastic surgery.
One area where it’s been particularly influential is in the latest advances in minimally invasive cosmetic procedures.
Technology has ushered in a new evolution of cosmetic procedures that are safer and more precise while offering extremely effective results.
Some of the Latest Advances in Minimally Invasive Cosmetic Procedures
There are myriad benefits to minimally and noninvasive procedures that make them appealing to patients.
In the case of minimally invasive procedures, there’s a significant reduction in the risk of scarring or infection that’s part and parcel of traditional surgery. Recovery time is also far shorter, and patients can often return to daily activities within days rather than weeks. Plus, because there’s a reduced need for anesthesia and operating times with minimally invasive procedures, the overall cost is lower.
Furthermore, the latest advances in these procedures have enabled surgeons and skin specialists to offer highly targeted treatments that produce more refined and natural-looking results. We’ll take a look at just three of these latest advancements.
- Discover What’s New in Laser Skin Resurfacing
The early days of traditional laser skin treatments were effective but aggressive and often led to a high occurrence of scarring and hypopigmentation.
That’s not the case anymore. One of the most substantial innovations in laser skin resurfacing has been the introduction of fractional laser technology. Fractional lasers are able to target microscopic areas of the skin while leaving the surrounding tissue intact. This method accelerates healing while reducing the risk of hyperpigmentation or prolonged redness. Plus, the lasers can be finely tuned to address a wide variety of concerns from treating acne scars and reducing deep wrinkles to simply enhancing overall skin texture.
The end game is a significant improvement in skin appearance with minimal downtime.
- More Easily Contour Your Body with EMSculpt
EMSculpt is the ultimate in non-invasive procedures. It focuses on both muscle enhancement AND fat reduction.
It’s a completely non-invasive procedure that uses high-intensity focused electromagnetic energy to trigger 20,000 supramaximal muscle contractions in the course of 30 minutes. What this essentially means is that it’s able to affect the muscles in a way that would be impossible for you to do voluntarily. For example, it’s as if you could do 20,000 sit-ups in the course of 30 minutes.
This not only burns fat but also builds muscle. And that means a more toned and sculpted appearance. Think of Emsculpt as an intense workout, except all the work is done for you with no sweating and no downtime. And after your session, you’ll be able to return to your daily activities almost immediately while enjoying gradual, natural-looking improvements.
- Take Advantage of Advances in Botox Techniques
One of the earlier telltale signs that someone had undergone Botox injections was compromised facial expressions. The significant and innovative development of micro-dosing in Botox has addressed this issue.
By administering Botox in smaller and more precise quantities, facial expressions are not nearly as compromised and patients achieve more natural results. This is especially the case in areas where the skin is more delicate, such as around the mouth and eyes. Micro-dosing can also soften fine lines.
In addition, Botox is now being used as a preventative treatment to target early signs of lines and wrinkles before they get too deep. And all with minimal downtime.
Put Technology to Work for You
These innovative cutting-edge approaches to non-invasive procedures reflect the growing need and preference for treatments that offer amazing results with little to no downtime.
At Star Plastic Surgery, we pride ourselves on staying at the forefront of these latest advances in minimally invasive plastic surgery procedures. That’s why we offer our clients in Novi and southeast Michigan the option of these highly effective procedures that also prioritize safety and convenience.
So if you’re ready to see what we can do for you, contact us today. We look forward to hearing from you.
Dermal Fillers or a Mini Facelift? Which Is Right for You?
Remember once upon a time when someone “got work” on their face it appeared as though their face had been flattened by plastic wrap?
That was back in the earlier days of plastic surgery where drastic pulling and tightening were the only game in town. Fortunately, things have changed.
If you’re starting to experience decreased skin laxity in your face, you’re not relegated to a full facelift. You may be able to get by with dermal fillers or a mini facelift.
What Is a Mini Facelift?
A mini facelift is similar to a full facelift, but it’s a modified version. A traditional facelift is comprehensive and covers the entirety of the face. Meanwhile, a mini facelift focuses on eliminating loose and sagging skin and deep creases in the mid/lower part of the face and jawline.
Yes, it is still a surgical procedure. There isn’t as much tightening and lifting as in a traditional facelift though. And the procedure still effectively smooths wrinkles and restores elasticity. Plus, it’s a lower-risk procedure than a full facelift and with a shorter downtime for recovery.
The Mini Facelift Procedure
A mini facelift is considered invasive surgery. Even so, it is less invasive than a full facelift and there is minimal scarring. Plus, it can be performed as an outpatient procedure. You will be under local or twilight anesthesia for a mini facelift.
The procedure typically takes around two and a half hours during which time, the plastic surgeon makes small incisions in the hairline, around the upper portion of the ear, then circles to the earlobe. Underlying muscle and tissue are repositioned through this opening and excess loose skin is removed. A layered suturing technique is used to minimize scarring.
Are You a Good Candidate?
As with any surgery, the first requirement is that you are in relatively good health. Of almost equal importance is that you should have realistic expectations about the results.
That being said, a mini facelift is often recommended for those who have just started to notice decreased skin laxity and have mild to moderate skin sagging and wrinkles. It’s also effective in removing excess skin for those who have recently lost weight.
While many patients wait until they are in their 40s or 50s to consider a mini facelift, if there is enough significant sagging before that age, a plastic surgeon may recommend it.
On the other hand, if you do not qualify for surgery because of health reasons or are apprehensive about going under the knife, you may benefit from dermal fillers.
Could Dermal Fillers Be a Better Choice?
Some patients are more comfortable with a noninvasive option such as a dermal filler. It’s important to understand though that a dermal filler will not garner the same results for patients whose sagging and wrinkles are more advanced. But it could be a great place to start.
Dermal fillers are gel-like substances that are injected beneath the skin. They smooth lines, soften creases, and restore volume to enhance your facial contours. There is no downtime with fillers, but the results aren’t as long-lasting as surgical options. Therefore, you’d need to return for treatments.
Today, most fillers are made with the body’s natural compound hyaluronic acid which is found in the skin and cartilage. It typically dissolves within 12 to 24 months. Some injectables contain the mineral calcium hydroxylapatite which is a mineral that’s found in the bones. These fillers last closer to 18 months.
Still Confused About Which Way to Go?
When deciding between dermal fillers or a mini facelift, you may still be floundering. That’s understandable. It’s a big decision.
Fortunately, you don’t have to make it on your own.
Contact us today to set up a free consultation with our board-certified plastic surgeon. You can feel confident in his experience and expertise to guide you on the path that’s tailor-made just for you.
Top Questions About Chin Implant Surgery
How do you feel about your reflection when you look in the mirror? Some folks are pleased with their reflection straight on but aren’t satisfied with how it looks from the side.
This is usually because of issues with the chin losing definition and blending in with the neck. Fortunately, there are chin augmentation procedures to address this issue.
Sound familiar? If you’re curious about contouring your jawline, take a look at some of the most common questions about chin implant surgery.
Am I a Good Candidate for Chin Implant Surgery?
If you’re dissatisfied with the look of your profile because of your chin or neck and want a bolder jawline, then chin implant surgery could be the perfect solution. It will improve the definition of that region of your face. Plus, combining chin implants with liposuction of the neck could give you the ultimate contour and profile!
Keep in mind though that this is surgery. You must be over the age of 18 and in good health. Plus, if you’re a smoker, you’ll need to quit smoking for 4-6 weeks before the procedure.
What Can I Expect During the Procedure?
Chin implant surgery requires general anesthesia so you will be unconscious during the entire procedure. The procedure is generally completed within an hour.
Once you’ve been safely anesthetized, a board-certified plastic surgeon will make an incision either under your chin or through your mouth. The surgeon will then place an implant on top of the existing chin bone, sew up the incision, and bandage the area.
The vast majority of chin implants are made with silicone so that it feels natural to the touch and nobody will be able to tell you’ve had surgery.
How Is Recovery from Chin Implant Surgery?
Once you awaken, you will feel groggy from the anesthesia. This will fade. There will be light swelling which is normal and will diminish over the following weeks or months.
To prevent swelling, your surgeon will ask you to sleep face-up. He or she will probably recommend a cold compress as well. And you may need to take a few days to a week off to rest. Within a week, you should be cleared to return to most of your daily activities.
The pain is relatively minimal with chin implant surgery. Even so, you will probably be prescribed pain medications. The most important thing you can do is follow your surgeon’s instructions both before and after the surgery. And let the surgeon know if there are any post-op issues.
The great news is that chin implant surgery results are permanent.
Is Chin Implant Surgery Right for Me?
If you’re left with questions about chin implant surgery, you need to consult a trusted plastic surgeon to discuss whether this is a viable option for you. There’s a possibility that you may be able to do fillers instead of having surgery.
Whatever the case, you deserve to feel satisfied with your reflection, no matter what the angle.
So contact us today to set up a free consultation. We’ll recommend the most appropriate method way to strike a balanced and harmonious appearance.
Having Plastic Surgery Is YOUR Decision
The decision to have plastic surgery can be polarizing. And it’s not unusual for family and friends to want to weigh in on your decision.
Plastic surgeons frequently encounter scenarios where patients bemoan the misgivings of family and friends who, for various reasons, are against the patient having surgery.
It’s important to understand that in most cases, having plastic surgery is your decision. There is one big question you need to honestly answer first though.
Can You Afford to Have Plastic Surgery?
The financial aspect is a legitimate concern. And if your partner, spouse, or other family members with whom you share finances are against it based purely on money issues, then you need to approach this as you would any other big-budget decision.
After all, you wouldn’t remodel your kitchen or bring home a brand-new car without consulting with them first. While most plastic surgery procedures won’t cost as much as a new car or a kitchen remodel, they can be expensive. So if your choice will affect their finances, then you’ll want to be sure you’re all in agreement before taking this step.
If, on the other hand, you’re single and are solely responsible for your finances, then what others think doesn’t really matter. This includes your parents, children, and friends. So in these cases, how do you ensure them that you’ve made the right decision?
It comes down to educating them. Let them know the two following things:
- Plastic Surgery Is Safe
It’s normal for loved ones to worry about your health and safety. So when you decide to have elective surgery, some of them may struggle with this choice.
Let them know that you’ve been cleared as a medically solid candidate for the surgery based on input from your board-certified plastic surgeon. You could also consult with your primary care physician if you want another voice of reason to speak with friends and family.
Many plastic surgeons encounter the children of patients who are concerned that their ‘older’ parent isn’t in good enough shape for surgery. But if the surgeon and family practice doctor believe they are medically healthy enough to do it and their desired results are realistic, then the concerned children have no choice but to find some solace and peace in the opinion of these experts.
Hopefully, your friends and family can too.
- Though Elective, It Is Necessary… for Me
You may also be running up against family and friends telling you that you don’t really need your chosen surgery. It’s not surprising they’d take this view. They see you in a different light than you see yourself.
Saying you don’t need surgery is a value judgment though. And while it may not be medically necessary, if there’s something on your body bothering you enough that you want to modify it, then that’s up to you. At the end of the day, if it’s going to make you feel better about yourself and increase your self-worth, then you DO need it.
Of course, there are always going to be cases where patients with body dysmorphic disorder seek out surgery to correct imperfections that don’t exist. And they’re never happy with the results. Plastic surgeons are familiar with this condition and are educated on how to handle patients who struggle with it.
But if your case is simply a matter of wanting a visible improvement that will make you happier and more comfortable in your skin, and your surgeon has recommended surgery, then you can share this with your loved ones. They may or may not agree, but it doesn’t matter. At this point, it’s purely up to you. And as long as the financial aspect has been cleared, it’s nobody’s decision but yours.
Having Plastic Surgery Is YOUR Decision. Are You Ready?
If you’re responsible for your own finances, then having plastic surgery is YOUR decision and yours alone.
So if you’re interested in how plastic surgery can improve your overall well-being, contact us today. Once our board-certified plastic surgeon has determined you are medically healthy and your desired results are realistic, the next step is yours.
Sure, you can listen to and entertain the opinions of friends and family. But just remember that at the end of the day, it’s your happiness on the table.
The Down-Low on Local Vs. General Anesthesia
If you are considering a plastic surgery procedure, you may have some reticence about being anesthetized. “Going under” can be daunting. General anesthesia is not something that’s taken lightly by any qualified and respected plastic surgeon. Important safety measures are always put into place.
But here’s the good news. You may not even need general anesthesia. There are some procedures (liposuction, fat transfer, and eyelid surgery, to name a few) where you may have the option to do a local anesthetic and oral sedation instead.
Given the option, which do you choose? There are numerous factors. So we’ll take a look at local vs. general anesthesia.
What Happens with General Anesthesia
General anesthesia is the most common form of sedation in plastic surgery. And if you are having an extensive procedure, it will be the best and only option.
With general anesthesia, you are rendered completely unconscious and then intubated with a machine so that you can breathe. You’ll have an anesthesiologist present at all times to ensure that you remain comfortable and motionless while the surgeon carefully performs the procedure.
The anesthesiologist is also there to monitor your vitals and blood pressure; making adjustments with the anesthetic to adjust blood pressure when and if needed.
Benefits of Local Vs. General Anesthesia
As stated above, there will be procedures where general anesthesia is the only option. And you can rest assured knowing that every precaution is taken to ensure your safety.
But in the event that you are offered a choice between the two, you may be wondering what the advantage of a local anesthetic with oral sedation would be.
For some patients, general anesthesia can cause nausea, vomiting, and constipation. There’s often grogginess and disorientation when recovering from it as well. And recovery time is slower with general anesthesia.
Local anesthesia can be more cost-effective because there is no need for an anesthesiologist and specialized equipment. Plus, because patients are awake, they can provide feedback to the surgeon in cases where aesthetics are the top priority.
Another benefit of local anesthesia and oral sedation is that it’s a safer option for patients with a high body mass index (BMI). General anesthesia can be taxing on their cardiovascular and respiratory systems. Local anesthesia dodges many of these risks.
Who Is Not a Good Candidate?
Before eliminating the option of general anesthesia, it’s important to understand that for some, the benefits of general anesthesia will outweigh the risks.
Being conscious during even a minor surgery can be distressing for those who regularly struggle with and/or take medication for anxiety. You will be fully aware of the surgical procedure and will still experience pressure, vibrations, or other movements in the area that’s been numbed. You may also hear the sounds of the surgical instruments.
This is true even in cases where the surgeon may offer eye coverings, ear plugs, and soothing music. Plus, the amount of medication required for full sedation may be more than the surgeon is comfortable administering. General anesthesia, if available, would likely be the best option in this situation.
Is Local Anesthetic an Option for You?
When it comes to deciding between local vs. general anesthesia, you’ll want to be sure you have all of the information.
So if you’re considering a procedure, please contact us today to schedule your free consultation.
You’ll be able to speak with a board-certified surgeon who can determine your anesthesia options, then outline the benefits and drawbacks of each to determine the best approach for your needs.
Unsure of What Plastic Surgery Procedure You Want?
Many patients seeking plastic surgery have specific areas they wish to address. For example, they may want fuller lips or smaller breasts or a different nose.
If you’re just feeling a general dissatisfaction with your appearance and can’t pinpoint the issue, however, you may not know what plastic surgery procedure you want.
That’s okay. There are plenty of others just like you. As such, you’d benefit from a consultation with a plastic surgeon to help you determine this. The consultation will be more effective if you’re able to go in with some ideas though. So where can you get inspiration?
Is AI the Best Way to Go?
Artificial intelligence is a good starting point. With AI, you can generate images of how you might look with certain tweaks. It’s important to remember though that these are made-up images and may not be obtainable in reality.
AI is, at this point, unable to take into account your unique structural and anatomical features to give a fair assessment of how you could change these. It’s also unaware of your skin type and age and the challenges involved with that. So it should be only used for very baseline inspiration.
Are Fashion Magazines, Television, and Social Media More on the Mark?
Fashion magazines were once the gold standard for plastic surgery inspiration. Patients would show up at the plastic surgeon’s office, flash a picture of their favorite celebrity, and insist upon his or her lips/breasts/butt/skin, etc. Of course, movies and television were also great sources for inspiration.
Today, patients will still turn to television, film, and print to get inspired. Yet, they’re also turning to social media in hopes of looking like the latest influencer. In both cases, these images are usually not an accurate representation of what these folks look like. Celebrities have hair and make-up artists, the best lighting, amazing photographers, and the magic of Photoshop to make them look great. And anyone on social media can alter their photos with apps and filters.
So what’s a confused potential plastic surgery patient to do?
To Decide What Plastic Surgery Procedure You Want, Stick with Reality
Many plastic surgeons recommend that you look to your past for inspiration. How? For example, if you want to rejuvenate your look or focus on anti-aging treatments, pour through old photos of yourself from a decade or so ago. Did you have fewer wrinkles, fuller lips, less sagging in your eyebrows?
By looking at these pictures of yourself from a decade or so ago, you’ll get a better idea of what you may want and how your potential results will look. It just creates a more realistic vision for you and your surgeon.
Another recommendation from surgeons is to find images of REAL people you find visually appealing with whom you share common physical traits (age, skin type, body type, etc.). Showing the surgeon such an image will help him or her to assess your expectations and determine how realistic they are.
Ready to Speak to a Surgeon?
When trying to decide what plastic surgery procedure you want, AI, television, film, social media, celebrity photographs, apps, and websites are good starting points.
But at the end of the day, you have to remember that you are not made of wood and clay that can be easily sculpted. What’s possible will depend on your skin laxity, anatomy, and other structural features.
So contact us today to set up a free consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon. And prepare to engage in an honest and transparent discussion about your aesthetic goals, whether they’re realistic, and the most effective procedures to get you the best results.
Why Millennials Are Getting Laser Skin Resurfacing
Strange as it may seem, millennials are openly talking about proactive measures to address signs of aging.
It makes sense though. It’s easier to preserve skin that is supple and resilient than to repair or restore skin that is aging or has aged.
This is why an increasing number of millennials are getting laser skin resurfacing.
What is Laser Skin Resurfacing?
Laser resurfacing is a non-surgical procedure that ablates the outer layer of the skin (the epidermis). Then the energy can enter into the deeper layer (the dermis). This results in an immediate contraction of the skin which promotes collagen production. Collagen locks moisture into the skin cells to lessen age-related loss of skin volume. The more collagen in the skin, the fewer lines and creases.
And millennials are embracing it. Cosmetic procedures are no longer regarded as a luxury for those middle-aged and beyond. Thanks to influencers, social media, and celebrity culture, societal attitudes have shifted. Plus, these procedures are more affordable than ever.
As such, cosmetic treatments such as laser skin resurfacing are increasingly a part of regular self-care routines for millennials who wish to maintain and enhance their natural beauty.
Why Millennials Are Getting Laser Skin Resurfacing
The latest generation isn’t as much about aging gracefully as finding ways to improve as the years progress. As millennials experience the emergence of fine lines and wrinkles, they’re discovering that laser skin resurfacing can help them to keep their youthful radiance.
Laser treatments effectively smooth wrinkles and even out skin tone on the face, neck, hands, and other places. And because it’s a minimally invasive procedure, the downtime is short. This is important for millennials who typically lead busy lifestyles. What’s more, the benefits of laser skin resurfacing last a long time.
The Added Benefit of Treating Acne Scars
Acne is not just an adolescent plague. Many adults struggle with it and the scars it leaves behind. And for millennials who are in the prime of their lives, these scars can be embarrassing and cause physical and emotional distress.
Fortunately, in addition to leaving skin brighter, tighter, smoother, and more even, laser skin resurfacing is also a reliable treatment for acne scars. A series of swift laser energy sessions stimulate collagen production to facilitate the regeneration of healthy skin cells to heal acne scars.
The number of sessions depends on the level of severity of the scars. Whatever the case, millennials who opt for laser skin resurfacing report noticeable skin improvement after even just a few sessions. And unlike more abrasive alternatives to treating acne scars, this procedure is much gentler on the skin.
Take a Pro-Active Approach to Aging Skin
The skin continuously replenishes itself by replacing old tissue with new. This process is expedited with laser resurfacing.
So it’s no big mystery as to why millennials are getting laser skin resurfacing to keep the youthful glow that still comes easily to them.
If you’re a millennial looking to keep your radiant skin, contact us to schedule your free consultation. We’ll take the time to give you options so you can move forward with the best procedure for you.
SkinMedica and Growth Factor Technology
If you’re looking for groundbreaking scientifically based skincare products that slow the aging process by healing the skin from within, then you’ll want to try SkinMedica.
Established in 1999, SkinMedica began the development of growth factor technology just one year later in 2000 with a patent that proved to be revolutionary in age defense science.
It wasn’t long before SkinMedica and growth factor technology became synonymous.
What Is Growth Factor Technology?
To explain growth factor technology, it helps to understand first what growth factors are. Simply put, they are naturally occurring proteins produced in human, animal, and even plant skin cells.
Also known as cytokines, these proteins are responsible for keeping skin cells healthy, alive, and thriving. They also serve to communicate messages between other cells to promote growth and healing. Unfortunately, as we age, the production of cytokines declines.
There are ways to boost production though. Skincare experts and scientists have taken to the lab to cultivate growth factor proteins. When formulated properly, as they are in SkinMedica products, they boost the production of collagen, elastin, and glycosaminoglycan. And this is growth factor technology.
SkinMedica and Growth Factor Technology
From 2008 – 2013, SkinMedica was doing groundbreaking work with growth factor technology. They created an all-in-one skin rejuvenating treatment by combining serums and complexes with antioxidants, peptides, and other specialty ingredients. They also introduced a highly effective topical retinol product that renews skin to lessen the appearance of fine lines.
Then in 2011, they established a special clinic where cosmetic chemists and scientists could focus on developing innovative new products through clinical research studies. In the following years, they continued this science-based innovation by focusing on pre-clinical studies to comprehend complex biological systems. All of this to ensure that they stayed up with the latest information to keep developing revolutionary and high-quality products.
Continuing to Blaze a Trail
Over the past ten years, SkinMedica has forged ahead in the science of skincare with a clinical research site and laboratories. They upped the ante in sun protection with the creation of a revolutionary sunscreen that offers protection from both UV and infrared rays while simultaneously supporting the skin’s ability to restore itself.
They were also pivotal in understanding the importance of hyaluronic acid (HA) and its effect on overall skin health. This understanding helped them develop a product that provides immediate smoothing in the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while supporting the skin’s ability to replenish HA. Further scientific advances from there included the development of a pigment correcting serum for a variety of skin types and ethnicities.
Finally, with the recent launch of the only growth factor product proven to address sagging skin, SkinMedica demonstrates the next-generation in growth factor innovation.
Given SkinMedica’s commitment to growth factor technology and top-of-the-line skincare products, one can only imagine where they’ll go from here.
Curious to Try SkinMedica for Yourself?
If you’re ready to see how SkinMedica and growth factor technology can give you more vibrant and youthful skin, take a look at the vast array of products we offer from this revolutionary skincare company.
And if you’re ready to take it a step further and are considering a surgical procedure to tighten your skin’s sagging or laxity, contact us today.
There are many options available to you. We’re happy to discuss them all during your free consultation.
Is Broadband Light Therapy for Acne Effective?
If you’re embarrassed by the appearance of zits and pimples anywhere on your body, then you know all too well that the struggle with acne is real.
Plus, it’s not just a problem for teenagers. Contrary to popular belief, a growing number of adults continue to struggle with acne. And if not treated, it can leave unsightly scars and pockmarks in its wake.
Fortunately, there’s Broadband Light Therapy for acne.
What is Broadband Light Therapy for Acne?
Trying to figure out what to do with problematic acne can be overwhelming. There is a wealth of different treatments – some of which can cause prolonged side effects. What’s more, what works for one person may not work for you. Some so-called treatments could even worsen your acne.
This is what makes Broadband Light Therapy so appealing. Also referred to as BBL (which shouldn’t be confused with the other BBL in plastic surgery – the Brazilian Butt Lift) filtered light similar to a laser is used to stimulate the regeneration of your skin cells. The result is improved clarity and luminosity of your skin.
In addition, the energy from the light stimulates collagen and elastin production to help even out your skin’s texture and complexion. It also destroys the bacteria that causes the acne.
So How Does BBL Work?
BBL is a fairly simple and minimal pain procedure done in the office. It does not require numbing cream and takes anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour to perform.
During the 3-step procedure, your skincare specialist uses a handheld FDA-approved device to apply light in three different wavelengths to the targeted areas of acne.
In the first step, blue light moves deep within your epidermis and sebaceous gland to kill the bacteria that causes acne. The reduction of active acne also prevents new breakouts. Yellow light is then utilized in the second step to reduce deeper acne lesions. This will further diffuse any inflammation or redness you’re experiencing. Finally, the third step utilizes a filter to complement the results from the first two steps.
When all is said and done, you may experience slight redness and a light sunburn sensation immediately following BBL. This typically lasts less than a couple of hours and you may return to normal activities within 24 hours of treatment.
Sound too good to be true?
Just a Few Caveats
It should be noted that BBL for acne is not a “one-and-done” affair. For best results, you’ll need a minimum of 6 consistent treatments done at 2- to 4-week intervals. Results will typically become noticeable after the first 2-3 treatments though and you’ll likely experience fewer breakouts.
In addition, BBL for acne should be performed in the fall or winter when there is little to no risk of sun exposure. (So if you go to Florida for Thanksgiving, you’ll want to wait until after you return home.) This is because sunlight exposure, or even any products that increase your sensitivity to the sun, put your skin at risk when exposed to BBL.
So to avoid the possibility of burning, striping, hyperpigmentation, white spots, or other skin damage, you’ll need to be extremely cautious about sun exposure or certain lotions for at least 4-6 weeks both before and after your treatment.
Schedule Your Fall/Winter BBL Treatments Now!
If the appearance of chronic pimples and zits is taking an emotional toll on you, now is the time to consider trying broadband light therapy for acne.
Contact us today to set up a free consultation with one of our skincare specialists. They will discuss the best options and treatment plans for you.
But don’t wait too long. Autumn is just around the corner and winter will be here before you know it!
