Mini Face Lift What is the Mini Facelift?
The Mini Facelift is a relatively new technique. It is performed in the office and involves a shorter recovery period than traditional facelift surgery. The Mini Facelift focuses on specific areas of the face, such as the neck and the folds of the nose. Using smaller incisions, Dr. Alouf lifts, repositions, and removes facial tissue to achieve optimal results. Once factors contributing to unwanted sagging and drooping have been eliminated, he carefully repositions the skin giving a cosmetically pleasing result.
Standard Facelift vs. Mini Facelift?
Traditional facelift surgery is appropriate for patients who would like to enhance their appearance by reducing wrinkles and sagging throughout their entire face. The Mini Facelift, by contrast, is intended for patients who wish to reduce sagging and droopiness only in specifically targeted areas. Mini Facelift procedures cannot address areas such as the forehead or brow.
What is the recovery time for the Mini Facelift?
You can usually return to work within 2 to 3 days after your surgery. Although this may be true for some patients depending on their occupations - the downtime associated with the Mini Facelift will vary from patient to patient.
Although a prescription for pain medication is provided, most patients say over-the-counter Tylenol is all they need to alleviate any discomfort. Some people may experience temporary bruising, which can be camouflaged with makeup after three days. To minimize swelling, patients are encouraged to sleep with their head elevated for the first week and to apply cold compresses the first 48 hours.
Meticulous attention is given to the placement of the incision line to promote an inconspicuous scar. A small, relaxed "S" shaped incision is made beginning along the sideburn, extending along the tragus of the ear, around the earlobe and up to the hairline toward the nape. This results is most of the scar being in the hairline.
Who are the best candidates for the Mini Facelift?
A Mini Facelift is appropriate for men and women who are just beginning to experience the first signs of aging but do not want to wait to undergo more intensive surgery. In general, thos who opt for this relatively simple facelift are still in their 30s or 40s. Usually they want to remove minor sagging or drooping around the cheeks, jowls, and neck area.
What is the cost of the Mini Facelift?
The cost of the Mini Facelift makes it a particularly attractive option. While standard procedures can be highly effective, patients are sometimes reluctant about incurring the cost of a traditional facelift to resolve relatively minor aesthetic issues. Since the Mini Facelift is less invasive, it can be performed more quickly and under mild-anxiety medications verus anesthesia required for traditional facelift surgery. Additionally, patients are able to return home the same day of the surgery. All of these factors help keep the cost of the Mini Facelift quite low compared to other options.
What are the Potential Risks and Complications of the Mini Facelift?
As with any type of surgery, there are inherent risks, which can include post-operative swelling, bleeding and visible scarring. However, refraining from smoking and carefully following the pre and post operative surgical instructions reduces the likelihood of these complications.
Patients are encouraged to ask questions and discuss their concerns about the procedure with Dr. Alouf during the evaluation process.
Avelar Tummy Tuck What is Awake Abdominoplasty?
Awake Adbominoplasty ("Tummy Tuck") is a cosmetic procedure which involves the removal of excess fat and skin of the abdomen fo rthe purpose of tightening the wall muscles and fascia of the abdominal wall. The awake abdominoplasty procedure is performed under "Tumescent" local anesthesia for which you will remain awake the entire time of the procedure. This will allow for you to see the results before completion. The combination of you being awake, the use of "Tumescent" local anesthesia, along with the implementation of liposuction during your awake abdominoplasty provide you countless benefits over the traditional approach to abdominoplasty.
What is the Avelar Technique?
The Avelar technique is an innovative abdominoplasty procedure developed by a doctor from South America, Dr. Juarez M. Avelar. The Avelar technique has resulted in an effective approach to the treating of a thick abdomen with excess rolls of skin. Prior to this procedure the physician had to make a large incision with significant undermining of the tissue to tighten the abdomen. The problem with this approach was that it resulted in a significant thick wall and unwanted deposits of fat. The Avelar technique has been developed to provide patients a thinner, more aesthetic waistline by removing the unwanted rolls of skin and/or fat.
By excising the skin with liposuction, the patient has a much tighter, more attractive abdomen. There are many benefits to implementing the Avelar technique over the traditional, one of the most significant is that by using the Avelar technique the blood vessels of the abdominal area are preserved. This single benefit alone results in a quicker recovery time and significantly reducing the risk of developing complications.
Who are the best candidates for the Avelar Abdominoplasty?
The best candidates for an Avelar procedure are men or women who are active but are bothered by large fat deposits and loose abdominal skin that won't respond to diet or exercise. This surgery is helpful to women who through multiple pregnancies have stretched their abdominal muscles and skin beyond the point where they can return to normal. Loss of skin elasticity in older patients, which frequently occurs with slight obesity, also can be improved.
It is safe to perform an Avelar Abdominoplasty even if there has been previous abdominal surgery. We have found the Avelar technique to be an important resource for our patients and have had excellent results with this procedure!
Can the Curl Lift be Combined with Other Treatments?
The Curl Lift is a perfect compliment to other procedures offered at Alouf Aesthetics, including: Mesotherapy, Botox®, and Restylane® (cosmetic fillers). A "combination approach" to skin rejuvenation always achieves better results than just a single treatment modality. To determine which combinations are right for you, please call and schedule an appointment with Dr. Alouf.
What are the Potential Risks and Complications of the Avelar Abdominoplasty?
One of the benefits of Avelar Abdominoplasty is that serious complications are uncommon. Complications such as infection and blood clots are rare, but can occur. Infection can be treated with drainage and antibiotics. You can minimize your risks of blood clots by moving around after surgery as much as possible. It is important to move your legs and walk as much as you can. Separation at the incision site may occur up to four weeks following a tummy tuck, most commonly as the result of unauthorized lifting, pulling, or pushing. It is therefore recommended that you refrain from physical activities that may endanger healing of the incision.
Curl-Lift (Thread Lift-Minor surgical face lift)
What is the Curl Lift?
The Curl Lift is a simple procedure that offers quick results, easy recovery and a subtle lift without surgery. It is quickly becoming the face-lift of the future. It is a minimally invasive face-lifting procedure that involves the placement of special nylon threads in a loop fashion and then pulling them upwards. The threads are placed with a needle through a small incision in the hairline and then tensioned according to the degree of suspension required. Threads can easily be removed, added or changed. Local anesthesia is required to perform this in-office procedure that takes only 45 minutes to complete, with most patients able to return to work in 24 hours.
History of the Curl Lift
The "Curl Lift" (Soft Lift) has been used for over 30 years as a cosmetic procedure. First described in 1970 by Frenchman Rene Guillemain it was initially called the "Cufl Lift". Dr. Pierre Fornier still refers to this procedure as the "Curl Lift", while others use such names as the "Invisible Lift", "Suture Suspension", "Thread Lift", and the "Soft Lift". While somewhat similar in principle to the Featherlift, the "Curl Lift" (Soft Lift) is a more predictable procedure whose results , while still subtle, are more noticeable.
Who are the best candidates for the Curl Lift?
The best candidates for the Curl Lift are young to middle-age patients who are looking to lift their brows, or cheeks, or diminish jowl formation. It will soften nasolabial folds, as well as marionette lines. Those patients who have already experienced a face-lift may benefit from the Curl Lift to restore the waning results. The results are not as dramatic as a surgical procedure, but it gives good results in selected cases with young or mature patients who don't want and dont' need a major surgery. These individuals only want maintenance of youth or beauty and not radical rejuvenation or embellishment. The Curl Lift is not an indication in patients with a lot of excess skin even if they can be improved slightly.
Can the Curl Lift be Combined with Other Treatments?
The Curl Lift is a perfect compliment to other procedures offered at Alouf Aesthetics, including: Mesotherapy, Botox®, and Restylane® (cosmetic fillers). A "combination approach" to skin rejuvenation always achieves better results than just a single treatment modality. To determine which combinations are right for you, please call and schedule an appointment with Dr. Alouf.
What are the Potential Risks or Side Effects?
Complications and side effects are mild and few due to the limited invasiveness of the procedure. Dimples around the lower curl may be observed, but these are easily fixed. Sometimes the skin above the suspension bunches up. This almost always disappears in 1-3 weeks. Possible asymmetry results can also occur, but are easily correctable. Should it be necessary to modify the result obtained, the procedure is reversible.
Laser Hair Removal How does laser hair removal work?
The laser emits a gentle beam of energy that passes through the skin to the hair follicle. The energy is then transformed into heat, which damages the follicle. There are 4 phases in a follicle growth cycle: Early Growth, Active Growth, Regression, and Resting. A follicle in a Active Growth phase contains engorged blood flow and will be affected on your treatment day. A resting follicle has less blood supply and will not be affected by treatment. This is true for all forms of laser hair removal.
How is Alouf Aesthetics’ laser different?
Our laser uses the scientific principle called Thermokinetic Selectivity,™ (TKS™) makes this method of hair removal particularly effective. TKS makes it possible for laser energy to “select” only hair follicles, while sparing surrounding skin from damage. This brings the cosmetic results you want with the clinical results you need.
What will my skin look like after treatment?
In most people there is no sign that a treatment has been done.
How do I know if I’m a good candidate for laser hair removal?
If you are concerned about unwanted hair, you are probably a good candidate for laser hair removal. Nearly everyone is a candidate for hair removal with Alouf Aesthetics’ laser. The most dramatic results occur for patients with light skin and dark hair, but TKS makes it possible for patients with darker skin to receive greater benefit from the procedure. Other factors can influence the treatment process, and are evaluated during your initial consultation.
How many treatments will I need?
The average person needs six treatments. How many treatments you will need will depend on your number of growth cycles and how hair-free you wish to be. Because a hair follicle can only be destroyed in an “active growth” cycle, your treatments will be timed to destroy the most hair follicles with each visit. Usually treatments will be 4 to 8 weeks apart.
If you stop watering a plant today it will not die the next day. A follicle that has been damaged from the heat of the laser will also take time to shrivel and die. You will lose your hair in 2-3 weeks after your treatment.
Can I pluck or wax my hair between treatments?
No. Plucking or waxing pulls the hair out of the follicle and may disrupt the growth cycle. You many trim or shave as much as you wish between treatments. Shaving does not change the type of hair that you grow.
What are the possible side effects from treatment?
While side effects are rare, some clients may have a swollen appearance to the follicle for a few minutes after treatment. This usually resolves before the client leaves the treatment room. Because the laser generates heat within the follicle, there is a risk of a small water blister. This is not common occurrence. Rarely, this may result in a change in skin pigmentation at that site or scarring.
What is the cost of laser hair removal?
Cost will depend on area covered, not how thick the hair growth is. Package prices can be arranged if more than one body area is to be treated. An accurate assessment of cost will be determined at your consultation.
Download a free information packet about Laser Hair Removal >>
Laser Vein Treatment
How does laser spider vein removal work?
This laser has a wavelength that targets hemoglobin or blood. Each vessel is traced with pulses of laser light. As the energy is absorbed by the blood in the vessel, heat is created and the vessel wall is destroyed. The vein will die and the body will clear away the tissue as it would clear away a bruise. Treatments with Alouf Aesthetics laser requires no anesthetics and no downtime, with very low risk of side effects.
How long will it take for my veins to disappear?
Each client's body will have its own time schedule for how quickly veins will be reabsorbed. This could range from days to weeks and possibly months.
How many treatments will I need?
Clients often differ in what they want out of their treatment. Some want their veins completely gone; others may want them to just look better. While many clients may need only one treatment to accomplish their goal, others should expect 2 or more treatments for clearing. Treatments are usually 6 weeks to 6 months apart.
Will my treated veins come back?
Once a vein is completely dead and reabsorbed, it should be gone. However, a person who has already made spider veins may have the tendency to make more in the future. Any newly developing vein -can be quickly treated.
What is the cost of laser spider vein removal?
Cost will depend on how many veins you have and the time it takes to treat them. Many clients can be treated in as little as 15 minutes. An assessment of cost will be determined at your consultation.
What are the possible side effects of treatment?
While side effects are uncommon, the skin over the treated vessel will appear red and swollen for a few hours after the treatment. Bruising is the most common side effect. Because the laser generates heat within the vessel, there is a small risk of a water blister. Rarely this may result in a change in skin pigmentation at that site or scarring. Hemosiderin staining is a brownish stain from the hemoglobin in the blood. This stain may linger under the skin.
Are there any activity restrictions immediately after treatment?
You may continue with normal daily activities, however, you need to refrain from hot baths or exercise for 3 days. Depending on your vessels, you may be wearing an ace wrap for 3 days as well. These wraps may be removed before showering and reapplied during these 3 days. These minor restrictions will enhance your treatment result.
Download a free information packet about Laser Vein Treatment >>
Anti-aging skin care products We offer :
2) Obagi® Skin Care
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As you age and your skin incurs the abuse of daily living (such as sun, stress, pollution), the cell turnover rate slows down. This means that the new cells take longer to form and reach the top. The old cells accumulate and stay on the surface longer. As the stratum corneum thickens and the area of new cells shrink, skin becomes less healthy. You begin to notice those unwelcome signs of aging including: fine lines and wrinkles, freckles and age spots, uneven skin tone, loss of elasticity and loss of natural skin hydration. |
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The Obagi Nu-Derm System, a physician-prescribed skin care system, accelerates the cellular turnover. This System penetrates below the skin's surface to correct damage in all layers of the skin (the stratum corneum, the epidermis and the dermis). It corrects functions of the skin at the cellular level, to Transform skin's cellular function to help it look and act younger and healthier. The System triggers a Therapeutic Cascade™ that:
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Pushes fresher cellsto the surface faster, for smoother skin, reduced wrinkles and increased tolerance |
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Corrects current pigmentation(freckles and age spots) and prevents the appearance of new pigmentation |
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Promotes more uniform cellsat the deepest layer for better skin structure and balanced, even skin tone |
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Increases collagen and elastinfor firmer, more resilient skin |
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Increases nutrient'snatural hydration and circulation for supple, healthy-looking skin | |
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3) Bellederm® Skin Care
BelleDerm™, by MedSurge Skincare™, provides comprehensive skincare solutions that combine prescription-strength cosmeceuticals,and are designed to deliver high-quality, clinically-proven outcomes.
Available only to physicians, BelleDerm™ products are individually-formulated by skincare professionals to treat skin at the cellular level, optimizing the underlying health of your skin. Using pure natural and medical-grade ingredients, our advanced skincare line is highly concentrated and extremely effective. BelleDerm™ is also more affordably priced.
Which Cosmeceutical Product is right for you?
4) Skin Ceuticals® Skin Care
When it comes to the scientific proof behind skincare technology, SkinCeuticals sets the standard in the cosmeceutical industry, devoting countless resources toward research at major medical institutions to support the technology behind our products. Our active ingredients are pharmaceutical grade, and the studies performed on our core products are peer reviewed. The following chapter includes abstracts of the science supporting SkinCeuticals products.
View the SkinCeuticals web site today: http://www.skinceuticals.com
Restylane® (New, longer lasting filler) What is Restylane®?
Restylane® is a safe and natural cosmetic dermal filler that restores volume and fullness to the skin to correct moderate to severe facial wrinkles and/or depressions. Restylane® smoothes out folds and wrinkles by adding volume can make an enormous difference to your appearance. With Restylane®, facial rejuvenation can be carried out without the use of foreign elements.
When treating wrinkles or folds, Restylane® is injected into the skin in tiny amounts with a very fine needle. The injected gel produces natural volume under the wrinkle, which is lifted up and smoothed out. The results can be seen immediately. Treating wrinkles with Restylane® is fast and safe and leaves no scars or other traces on the face. Selected areas commonly include lip enhancement, nasolabial fold correction or even facial scars.
What is Restylane® made of?
Restylane® is the first and only cosmetic dermal filler made of non-animal-based hyaluronic acid. Hyaluronic acid is a natural substance that already exists in the human body and is used to provide volume and fullness to the skin. The hyaluronic acid in Restylane is a crystal-clear gel called NASHA™, or Non-Animal Stabilzed Hyaluronic Acid. NASHA is biodegradable and completely biocompatible with human hyaluronic acid.
What is the difference between Perlane® and Restylane®?
They are actually made of the same NASHA® as above. Perlane is just a bit thicker molecule and therefore lasts longer when used as a filler. It has recently gained FDA approval in the USA on 11-06 whereas Restylane® has been approved for over 2 years. Dr. Alouf has been trained in Canada with the use of Perlane® and Restylane® under the instruction of Dr. Mark Baily and representatives from the company Medicis, the makers of Perlane® and Restylane®. Dr. Alouf has more experience injecting Perlane® than most US doctors secondary to his frequent lectures, training, and injection seminars and clinics in Canada. We are excited to now welcome Perlane® to the USA. Please feel free to ask about these wonderful new products.
As Restylane® is a totally non-animal product, there is no risk of eliciting allergic reactions if you are sensitive to common foods, such as beef, chicken and eggs. Unlike some other injectable products for wrinkle treatment and lip enhancement (for example collagen made from cow hide and hyaluronic acid made from rooster combs), Restylane® is a totally non-animal product. This means that there is no risk of transmitting disease or eliciting allergic reactions if you are sensitive to common foods, such as beef, chicken and eggs.
How long does Restylane® last?
A Restylane® wrinkle treatment is long-lasting but not permanent. This means that you always have the option to assess your looks. The length of time a treatment maintains its effect is very individual and depends on many factors, such as your age, skin type, life-style and muscle activity, as well as the injection technique. Experience shows that Restylane® can be effective for up to one year or more after the treatment of wrinkles. Together with your practitioner, you can draw up a plan for regular future visits to maintain the result. Most patients choose to have a follow-up treatment four to six months after the initial treatment of wrinkles.
How long does Perlane® last?
Actually Perlane® last longer than Restylane®. Estimates are between six to twelve months.
More about Perlane® and Restylane®.
The resilience and youthful contours of your skin, its ability to counter the effects of time, wind and weather, owes much to hyaluronic acid. Hyaluronic acid also plays an important role giving volume to the skin, shape to the eyes and elasticity to the joints. Hyaluronic acid is found naturally in your skin and other tissues. Hyaluronic acid has a chemical structure similar in some ways to sugar, and is identical in all species and in all tissue types. Perlane™ & Restylane™ are made from NASHA gel (Non-Animal Stabilized Hyaluronic Acid).
Each of us has good natural lines that can be emphasized and improved. Perlane™ & Restylane™ can be used to give you a long-lasting and natural beauty lift: smoothing wrinkles and folds, or giving your mouth a fuller, more sensuous form.
More than 27 million patients all over the world have been treated with various hyaluronic acid based products over the years. Perlane™ & Restylane™ are extremely safe. More than five hundred thousand men and women in all age groups around the world have been successfully treated with Perlane™ & Restylane™ since 1996. Studies show that the vast majority of them were so happy with their results they would be willing to have the treatment again.
Because the NASHA used in Perlane™ & Restylane™ is produced by fermentation, there is no risk of transmitting diseases between species, or eliciting allergic reactions in patients who are sensitized to common foods, such as beef, chickens and eggs – and Perlane™ & Restylane™ are acceptable to vegetarians. No skin testing is needed before Perlane™ & Restylane™ treatments.
The sizes of the NASHA gel particles in Perlane™ & Restylane™ is custom tailored to match the tissue structures in the skin being treated, and they are stabilized to form a continuous 3-dimensional molecular network. Nutrients, oxygen and hormones pass freely between the gel particles, maintaining the health and vitality of your skin. Since the body has its own system for absorbing hyaluronic acid, it slowly disappears over time without a trace.
Perlane™ & Restylane™ can be used in combination with each other. For example, a deep fold can first be treated with PERLANE, then Restylane™ can be used at a later date if you wish to correct residual lines in that area. Restylane Fine Lines™ can be used for thin, superficial lines, for example around the eyes, around the mouth and on the forehead. Many people are looking for that slightly fuller shape for their chin, or perhaps a rounder more sensuous line along the cheeks or lips. Just a touch of additional volume can make an enormous difference to your appearance.
Unlike collagen (which lasts 3-6 months), the benefits of Perlane™ & Restylane™ treatment should be visible for 6-12 months, depending on the location of the treatment and the nature of your skin. For example, highly mobile areas like the lips tend to require at least a touch-up treatment after about 6 months. Areas where there is less movement may only require additional treatment after 12 months. Experience has shown that smaller amounts of Perlane™ & Restylane™ are often needed for maintenance than for the initial correction.
Some patients who are pleased with the results but desire a more long-lasting correction have follow up treatments with Artecoll™.
In some areas (for example: the forehead and upper lip), BOTOX® treatments are often used to reduce unwanted muscle movement and so prolong the effect of the Perlane™ & Restylane™ treatments in those areas.
In summary, Perlane™ & Restylane™ are:
- Long-lasting, but ultimately biodegradable and non-permanent.
- Can last 6-12 months before being completely reabsorbed
- Effects can be cumulative – smaller volumes are sometimes needed for maintenance treatments
- There are no animal ingredients
- No skin test is needed
What is the difference between Perlane™ or Restylane™ and BOTOX®?
BOTOX® relaxes the muscles which cause many facial lines and unwanted facial expressions.
Fillers like Perlane™ and Restylane™, collagen (Zyplast™ and Zyderm™), Artecoll™ and other products fill creases, lips, cheekbones, and also defects like acne scars. Sometimes BOTOX® is used in combination with Perlane™ and Restylane™ when treating certain areas where permanent deep lines have resulted from overactivity of the muscles, for example some frown lines on the lower forehead or wrinkles around the lips.
BOTOX®
What is BOTOX® Cosmetic?
BOTOX® Cosmetic is a simple, non-surgical, physician-administered treatment that can temporarily smooth moderate to severe frown lines between the brows in people from 18 to 65 years of age. It is the only treatment of its type approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
One 10-minute treatment—a few tiny injections—and within days there's a noticeable improvement in those persistent lines between the brows, which can last up to 4 months. Results may vary.
BOTOX® Cosmetic is a purified protein produced by the Clostridium botulinum bacterium, which reduces the activity of the muscles that cause those frown lines between the brows to form over time.
A million people have been treated with FDA-approved BOTOX® Cosmetic. There's only one BOTOX® Cosmetic. Talk to Dr. Alouf to see if BOTOX® Cosmetic is right for you!
Botox® Cosmetic May Work for You
When it comes to selecting a physician-administered cosmetic treatment, chances are you’ll want proof, not just claims. The proof for BOTOX® Cosmetic is in the numbers.
One day you looked in the mirror and studied those lines that furrowed your brow, and you wondered: Where did they come from?
Is it just aging? Too much sun? Too much stress? In general, how skin ages and wrinkles is a complex process. It isn't just about cellular changes, collagen depletion, hormone loss, damage caused by free radicals, and so on; it's a combination of many factors.
The Anatomy of the Wrinkle
The lines that appear between your brows (glabellar lines) actually result from muscle movement and the passage of time. You may have heard the expression "wearing your emotions on your sleeve," but in reality you wear them on your face. If you're angry or annoyed, for example, you knit your brows together. Underneath your skin, your facial muscles contract, cause a pleating of the overlying skin, and then, as anyone can see, you're frowning.
After years of crinkling and wrinkling, those glabellar lines start to linger longer and can become more pronounced. For women, whose faces tend to be more animated than men's, and whose skin is typically more delicate, these lines may appear exaggerated and more permanent.
Fortunately, there is a way to reduce moderate to severe glabellar lines. Treatment with BOTOX® Cosmetic can visibly smooth and soften moderate to severe frown lines between your brows. An improvement can be seen within days and may last up to 4 months, although results may vary. In clinical trials, nearly 90% of men and women surveyed rated the improvement in the appearance of frown lines between their brows as moderate to better 1 month after treatment.
MesoGlow (Meso-Lift) What is the MesoGlow (Meso-Lift)?
The Mesotherapy Face-Lift is a minimally invasive treatment of the skin on the face. By injecting the face with nutrients and medications that help rejuvenate the skin, one can improve the appearance of the face creating a more youthful look. Eye Bags: As we age we tend to develop bags under the eyes. These bags often are an accumulation of fat. By injecting these bags we can "melt away" the fat and tighten the skin. This will dramatically improve the appearance of the eyes, removing that "tired look".
Does Mesotherapy Hurt?
Mesotherapy treatments are usually not painful. Some patients may experience a slight burning sensation at the individual injection sites, lasting only a few seconds. However, since the needle used is very thin (the size of an eyelash) the vast majority of patients tolerate the procedure very well.
How Many Treatments Will I Need?
It depends on your body type and frame. Some patients see results after one treatment, while others may require 4 to 5 treatments to see results.
Laser Facials What is a Laser Facial?
Alouf Aesthetics' laser penetrates to the collagen layer in your skin to gently heat and stimulate new growth of collagen resulting in tightening of the skin. This very safe and non-invasive procedure is often called the "lunch hour face lift". Collagen is the "backbone" or structure to our skin, much like the framework to a house. As we age, our collagen bands relax, causing our skin to sag and develop lines and wrinkles. Just like going to a gym and lifting weights stresses muscles, resulting in new muscle growth and toning, this deep heating of the collagen also results in new collagen growth. This new growth can result in up to a 40% tightening of skin. This treatment can be combined with Microdermabrasion on the very same day.
Do Laser Facial's help with acne?
Yes, they gently send heat into the deep layers of skin to help kill bacteria that causes acne. This treatment will help shrink sebaceous (oil) glands that are pockets where acne forms. Finally the laser can also shrink blood vessels to decrease the red appearance of the skin.
How will my skin look after treatment?
Alouf Aesthetics' laser is safe on all skin types. In most people there is no sign that a treatment has been done. This treatment can be completed in as little as 45 minutes.
How many treatments will I need?
Just like you cannot lift weights one time to tone muscles, you must begin with a series of treatments. A minimum of three treatments, four to six weeks apart, are recommended. Follow up treatments will be needed to maintain continued collagen growth.
How long will it take to see results?
Because we are stimulating your own collagen to grow, results will not be seen overnight. This is a gradual change which will be seen over weeks to months. Your age and general health will affect your individual results.
Microdermabraision What is Microdermabrasion?
Microdermabrasion is the manual exfoliation of the upper layer of your epidermis, the dead layer of your skin. This is accomplished with the use of a crushed diamond tip wand and vacuum pressure. This exfoliation delivers changes both above and below the skin surface and promotes long term skin health. Treatments encourage new collagen formation. This results in a renewed plumpness of the skin and more youthful appearing complexion. Microdermabrasion is used to treat fine lines and wrinkles, acne, pigmentation changes and sun damaged skin. Whatever the condition of the skin, by improving the health of the skin, many skin conditions begin to heal themselves.
How many treatments are needed?
Microdermabrasion is performed in a series of treatments to bring the skin to new level of health without compromising the skin's integrity. A beginning series of 5 treatments are recommended, occurring at approximately 2 week intervals. Each session takes about an hour. Follow up treatments are recommended to maintain results. These follow up treatments are often scheduled every 1-2 months.
Do I need skin care products?
A unique benefit of Microdermabrasion is the openness it brings to the skin's surface. This allows the skin care products to be more rapidly absorbed in the skin. These products will be customized to your skin needs
Affirm Laser (fine lines & wrinkles)
Erbium Laser Skin Resurfacing Treatment How does the treatment work?
Laser energy removes the top most layer of skin. As the skin is regenerated, discoloration, wrinkles or other marks will diminished or in many cases eliminated. Dr. Alouf can tailor the depth of the peel and recovery time to your individual need by adjusting the lasers power settings. Some patients choose to have fewer deep treatments with longer recovery times, while others wish to have more light treatments with shorter recovery times. Your individual needs should be discussed with Dr. Alouf.
What skin concerns can be addressed?
Many facial conditions such as fine wrinkling around the eyelids, forehead, nose and mouth can be smoothed with this simple process. Deep laugh and frown lines can be minimized. Even lingering effects of chicken pox, acne scars, superficial pigmented lesions and other surface abnormalities can be successfully treated.
Does the treatment hurt?
The use of topical anesthetics should eliminate most, if not all, discomfort during the procedure. Your individual needs or concerns should be discussed with Dr. Alouf prior to treatment.
What should I expect following treatment?
Immediately after laser exposure the treated area may turn pink and swell slightly. In the following days the outer layer of skin will flake off as new skin is generated underneath. In some cases slight redness may persist. It is important to limit sun exposure following treatment. Questions regarding the appropriate use of sunscreen or makeup should be discussed with Dr. Alouf.
Recovery times are directly related to depth of peel and your body's healing response. Please discuss the treatment with Dr. Alouf in order to understand the recovery time associated with the outcome you desire.
Consultation and cost?
Before the procedure, a thorough consultation with your physician is necessary. You and Dr. Alouf should agree on this procedure plan and expected results.
Cosmetic procedures are often not covered by medical insurance carriers. Procedure fees vary based on the complexity of the procedure.
TriActive™ The TriActiveLaserDermologysystem is the newest technology for the temporary reduction in the appearance of cellulite. The TriActivecan uniquely treat the face to restore normal balance and a healthier appearance to the skin.
Smoothing and tightening of cellulite can be accomplished in most areas of the body. These benefits may be enhanced when combined with a healthy diet and exercise.
Micro-circulation is enhanced, resulting in improved skin tone, giving a healthier appearance.
Deep massaging and stimulating action on the subcutaneous tissue of the skin, whether on the body on on the face, combines to change the tissue appearance.
The TriActive™ Laser can:
1. Improve circulation and lymphatic drainage within the affected area(s).
2. Tonify the skin.
3. Dissolve unwanted fat deposits.
4. Remove cellulite-causing fibrotic connective tissue. Are the Once the fat is removed from an area it is gone for good! The procedure can be permanent provided that a healthy diet is followed.
Sclerotherapy Diminishing unsightly 'spider veins'
Millions of women are bothered by spider veins - those small yet unsightly clusters of red, blue or purple veins that most commonly appear on the thighs, calves and ankles. In fact, it's estimated that at least half of the adult female population is plagued with this common cosmetic problem.
Today, many physicians are treating spider veins with sclerotherapy. In this rather simple procedure, veins are injected with a sclerosing solution, which causes them to collapse and fade from view. The procedure may also remedy the bothersome symptoms associated with spider veins, including aching, burning, swelling and night cramps.
Although this procedure has been used in Europe for more than 50 years, it has only become popular in the United States during the past decade. The introduction of sclerosing agents that are mild enough to be used in small veins has made sclerotherapy predictable and relatively painless.
If you're considering sclerotherapy to improve the appearance of your legs, this brochure will give you a basic understanding of the procedure - when it can help, how it's performed and what results you can expect. It won't answer all of your questions, since a lot depends on your individual circumstances. Please ask your doctor if there is anything about the procedure you don't understand.
THE BEST CANDIDATES FOR SCLEROTHERAPY
Women of any age may be good candidates for sclerotherapy, but most fall in the 30-to-60 category. In some women, spider veins may become noticeable very early on - in the teen years. For others, the veins may not become obvious until they reach their 40s.
If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, you may be advised to postpone sclerotherapy treatment. In most cases, spider veins that surface during pregnancy will disappear on their own within three months after the baby is born. Also, because it's not known how sclerosing solutions may affect breast milk, nursing mothers are usually advised to wait until after they have stopped breastfeeding.
Spider veins in men aren't nearly as common as they are in women. Men who do have spider veins often don't consider them to be a cosmetic problem because the veins are usually concealed by hair growth on the leg. However, sclerotherapy is just as effective for men who seek treatment.
Laser Removal Of Pigmented Lesions Certain selected pigmented lesions (or moles) can be targeted and removed in as little as one treatment from all parts of the body.
Mesotherapy What is Mesotherapy?
Mesotherapy is a "micro-injection technique used to deliver medication to the skin and skin fat layer to enhance the repair and metabolism of these tissues. It can be used to "melt away" fat, tighten skin and reduce cellulite.
How does it work?
Mesotherapy uses "micro-injections" of medication right at the problem area to achieve local concentrations of the medicine that would be impossible by mouth or even IV administration. These medicines then act locally to affect the biochemistry of the tissue to produce the desired changes.
What can be done with Mesotherapy?
Body Sculpting: You have developed a healthy life style that includes diet, exercise and stress management, yet you still have those saddle bags, love handles, upper arms or belly. Meso body sculpting can be very helpful. By injecting the problem areas, you can greatly improve the appearance of these sites by increasing the metabolism of the fat cells resulting in the fat "melting away".
Cellulite: Cellulite generally will not improve with diet or exercise. Mesotherapy can help. By injecting medications that break up scar tissue and skin adhesions that create puckers, Mesotherapy can reduce the appearance of cellulite.
MesoGlow (Meso-Lift): The Mesotherapy Face-Lift is a minimally invasive treatment of the skin on the face. By injecting the face with nutrients, vitamins, and medications that help rejuvenate the skin, one can improve the appearance of the face creating a more youthful look. Two to four treatments are generally needed two to three weeks apart to help build collagen and not only improve the texture and smoothness to the skin, but also help tighten sagging skin and give it a natural "glow" as the name indicates.
Eye Bags: As we age we tend to develop bags under the eyes. These bags often are an accumulation of fat. By injecting these bags we can "melt away" the fat and tighten the skin. This will dramatically improve the appearance of the eyes, removing that "tired look". Two to four treatments are usually recommended.
Does Mesotherapy Hurt?
Mesotherapy treatments are usually not painful. Some patients may experience a slight burning sensation at the individual injection sites, lasting only a few seconds. However, since the needle used is very thin (the size of an eyelash) the vast majority of patients tolerate the procedure very well.
How Many Treatments Will I Need And How Far Apart Are Each?
It depends on your body type and frame. Some patients see results after one to two treatments but others may require three to four. Most individuals require between four to ten treatments to fully achieve desired results.
Summary: Mesotherapy is by far the most successful of all current cellulite treatments available today. Mesotherapy is a safe, noninvasive procedure where small droplets of medicine are delivered just under the skin to help rid of cellulite, melt away fat from under eyes, abdomen, chin, or from most parts of the body and can improve skin tone and decrease wrinkles. For the right candidate, mesotherapy can be an excellent non-surgical option without the expense and risk of liposuction.
Sculptra® Sculptra® is a registered FDA approved semi-permanent filler for lipoatrophy of the face. The active ingredient is called Poly-L-Lactic acid. This product is injected into the dermis of the skin over a series of treatment from 2-6 in total. These are spaced approximately 4 months apart. Unlike fillers like Restylane®, where the product is injected and the defect is imediately fixed, Sculptra® product is deposited and over time stimulates collagen in the dermis to grow. This ultimately thickens the dermis resulting in a much fuller appearance and a correction of the sunken or wrinkled area of the face.
One of the most appealing features of Sculptra is duration of time this product lasts within the skin. After the desired number of treatments are achieved, the product can last up to 2-4 years. This in comparison to Restylane and other temporary fillers is about 10 times as long.
Please contact us if you feel that Scultra® is right for you!
Juvederm Ultra
Juvederm Ultra Plus Radiesse
Perlane® Perlane® is a "filler" that is made from Hyaluronic Acid. This is the exact same substance as Restylane®. In fact both Perlane® and Restylane® are made from the same company. Perlane® is almost the same except it lasts longer than Restylane®. Perlane® has recently been FDA approved in the USA but it has been successfully been used in many other countries including Canada for about 3 years. Dr. Alouf received his training in Canada under the instruction of Dr. Mark Baily and representatives from the company Medicis who make Perlane® and Restylane®. Dr. Alouf has had over 2 years of injection experience with both Perlane® and Restylane®. Dr. Alouf has more experience with Perlane® than most physicians in the USA since he travels to Canada and continually lectures and trains other doctors as well as injecting patients.
The resilience and youthful contours of your skin, its ability to counter the effects of time, wind and weather, owes much to hyaluronic acid. Hyaluronic acid also plays an important role giving volume to the skin, shape to the eyes and elasticity to the joints. Hyaluronic acid is found naturally in your skin and other tissues. Hyaluronic acid has a chemical structure similar in some ways to sugar, and is identical in all species and in all tissue types. Perlane™ & Restylane™ are made from NASHA gel (Non-Animal Stabilized Hyaluronic Acid).
Each of us has good natural lines that can be emphasized and improved. Perlane™ & Restylane™ can be used to give you a long-lasting and natural beauty lift: smoothing wrinkles and folds, or giving your mouth a fuller, more sensuous form.
More than 27 million patients all over the world have been treated with various hyaluronic acid based products over the years. Perlane™ & Restylane™ are extremely safe. More than five hundred thousand men and women in all age groups around the world have been successfully treated with Perlane™ & Restylane™ since 1996. Studies show that the vast majority of them were so happy with their results they would be willing to have the treatment again.
Because the NASHA used in Perlane™ & Restylane™ is produced by fermentation, there is no risk of transmitting diseases between species, or eliciting allergic reactions in patients who are sensitized to common foods, such as beef, chickens and eggs – and Perlane™ & Restylane™ are acceptable to vegetarians. No skin testing is needed before Perlane™ & Restylane™ treatments.
The sizes of the NASHA gel particles in Perlane™ & Restylane™ is custom tailored to match the tissue structures in the skin being treated, and they are stabilized to form a continuous 3-dimensional molecular network. Nutrients, oxygen and hormones pass freely between the gel particles, maintaining the health and vitality of your skin. Since the body has its own system for absorbing hyaluronic acid, it slowly disappears over time without a trace.
Perlane™ & Restylane™ can be used in combination with each other. For example, a deep fold can first be treated with PERLANE, then Restylane™ can be used at a later date if you wish to correct residual lines in that area. Restylane Fine Lines™ can be used for thin, superficial lines, for example around the eyes, around the mouth and on the forehead. Many people are looking for that slightly fuller shape for their chin, or perhaps a rounder more sensuous line along the cheeks or lips. Just a touch of additional volume can make an enormous difference to your appearance.
Unlike collagen (which lasts 3-6 months), the benefits of Perlane™ & Restylane™ treatment should be visible for 6-12 months, depending on the location of the treatment and the nature of your skin. For example, highly mobile areas like the lips tend to require at least a touch-up treatment after about 6 months. Areas where there is less movement may only require additional treatment after 12 months. Experience has shown that smaller amounts of Perlane™ & Restylane™ are often needed for maintenance than for the initial correction.
Some patients who are pleased with the results but desire a more long-lasting correction have follow up treatments with Artecoll™.
In some areas (for example: the forehead and upper lip), BOTOX® treatments are often used to reduce unwanted muscle movement and so prolong the effect of the Perlane™ & Restylane™ treatments in those areas.
In summary, Perlane™ & Restylane™ are:
- Long-lasting, but ultimately biodegradable and non-permanent.
- Can last 6-12 months before being completely reabsorbed (Restylane® typically lasts 4-6 months and Perlane® lasts from 6-12 months).
- Effects can be cumulative – smaller volumes are sometimes needed for maintenance treatments
- There are no animal ingredients
- No skin test is needed
What is the difference between Perlane™ or Restylane™ and BOTOX®?
BOTOX® relaxes the muscles which cause many facial lines and unwanted facial expressions.
Fillers like Perlane™ and Restylane™, collagen (Zyplast™ and Zyderm™), Artecoll™ and other products fill creases, lips, cheekbones, and also defects like acne scars. Sometimes BOTOX® is used in combination with Perlane™ and Restylane™ when treating certain areas where permanent deep lines have resulted from overactivity of the muscles, for example some frown lines on the lower forehead or wrinkles around the lips.
Affirm Facial Skin Treatment
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Reverses the signs of sun damaged skin
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Reduces pigmentation
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Treats the Blush of Rosacea
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Improves overall skin texture and appearance
If you're an active person, chances are you spend more than your fair share of time in the sun. And if you're over thirty, you are more than likely to show signs of premature aging due to sun damage. With facial skin treatment, you can now treat sun spots, pigmented lesions and overall skin texture--giving you a more revitalized appearance than you've had in years.
How does it work?
Facial skin treatment works by directing a beam of light to an irregularity in the skin, such as enlarged blood vessels or irregular chromophore. This removes the abnormaility without scarring or damage, while stimulating collagen production to tighten the surrounding tissue, resulting in improved skin texture and reduced signs of aging.
How does this treatment differ from chemical peels and dermabrasion?
Unlike other treatments that remove an outer layer of skin and require significant healing time, laser treatment works by gently penetrating the skin to destroy the underlying vessels and pigment that are the cause of the problem. The outer skin itself is not damaged.
Is the treatment painful?
The treatment causes only minimal discomfort and any initial soreness is easily alleviated with a cold air cooling system.
How many treatments are required?
Typically several sessions are required for full-face treatment. The average treatment takes about 15 - 20 minutes. Results may be seen after the first few treatments. The treatment can be performed in a relaxed, comfortable manner without the use of typical anesthetics or gel.
How long does recovery take?
You'll be able to return to normal activities immediately, though sunscreen should be applied as a post-treatment precaution.
Laser Anti-Aging
Cosmetic lasers are proven to effectively treat the wrinkles, photo aging and skin discolorations that time and sun have wrought. In addition to minimizing these imperfections, laser treatment also stimulates collagen production, making your skin appear more supple and full. So even if the years have taken their toll, you can now easily turn the clock back.
How does it work?
Cosmetic laser treatments reverse the signs of aging and sun-damaged skin by stimulating collagen production and promoting tissue tightening through tissue coagulation.
Am I a candidate?
It's as simple as this--if your skin is showing signs of aging, then you are a candidate for laser treatment. Your doctor or practitioner can help you determine your specific needs.
Are there any side effects to treatment?
Anti-aging treatment should cause only minimal discomfort. Any redness, swelling or puffiness that occurs can be gone within a few days, if not a few hours.
How many treatments are required?
Results vary with each case. Patients may require anywhere from 2 - 6 treatments to achieve desired results. Each session will last from 15 to 30 minutes.
How long do results last?
Just like the aging process itself, this varies from person to person. However, if you take steps to protect and preserve your freshly rejuvenated skin--such as using SPF sunscreen, facial cleansers and creams--the results will last longer.
LiLash™ and LiBrow™ (Eyelash and Eyebrow Stimulator) LiLash™
With LiLash you will grow the appearance of the longest, fullest lashes you have ever had. LiLash is applied once or twice a day as a liquid eyeliner and results can be seen in approximately 4 to 6 weeks. LiLash is physician formulated and clinically tested and safe for even the most sensitive eyes. Depending on the freqency of use, one tube of LiLash will last up to 5 months. Please call for pricing information.
LiBrow™
LiBrow will give you full bold brows. LiBrow is applied with a unique applicator to the skin in areas where your eyebrows need the most help. Results can be seen in approximately 6 to 8 weeks of regular use. LiBrow is physician formulated and tested and has a gentle natural botanical tinter to darken brows over time. Depending on the frequency of use, one tube of LiBrow will last up to 5 months. Please call for pricing information.
Juvederm™ Juvederm™
Juvederm™ is a smooth consistency gel made of hyaluronic acid -- a naturally occurring substance in your skin that helps to add volume and hydration. Juvederm™ instantly restores your skin's volume and smooths away facial wrinkles and folds.
The injection process takes about 15 minutes and the results are immediate and can last for up to 1 year! Please call for a consultation.
Radiesse® What is Radiesse Filler?
Radiesse® dermal filler is made of calcium-based microspheres suspended in a water-based gel, and is injected into the skin through a simple and minimally invasive procedure. RADIESSE dermal filler is the ideal choice for total facial contouring. It can restore a healthy, youthful appearance, enhance your existing features, help you defy age and gravity, and increase your confidence – all without invasive surgery or scarring.
RADIESSE dermal filler is ...
Naturally superior
RADIESSE dermal filler works with your own body in a remarkable way. Upon injection, it immediately adds volume to safely contour, correct, and beautify facial features. And unlike other fillers, RADIESSE dermal filler continues to work over time. With its patented microsphere technology, it starts a process called collagenesis, stimulating your body to produce new collagen and encouraging collagen to grow around the injection area. RADIESSE dermal filler actually helps your body create its own naturally younger look, setting a new standard in facial contouring and augmentation.
Safe
RADIESSE dermal filler has been clinically tested extensively for years, with excellent safety and efficacy results. It has received CE mark certification, two FDA approvals, and a number of FDA clearances. RADIESSE dermal filler is made from a biocompatible substance that’s identical to what’s naturally found in the body. There’s virtually no risk of allergic reaction, and there have been very few side effects reported in clinical trials and actual use.
Immediate and long-lasting
Treatment with RADIESSE dermal filler is so simple and convenient, it can be performed during a lunch hour. You’ll see the results right away - and these results may last up to a year or more for many patients. The long-lasting effects of RADIESSE dermal filler can reduce the need for retreatment, which saves you time and money compared with other fillers.
Dr. Alouf is well trained in the proper techniques and best practices for the administration of RADIESSE dermal filler. To find out if you're a candidate for Radiesse filler, contact our office today!
"Safe"Liposuction (Tumescent Liposuction) At Alouf Aesthetics we now offer a newer, safer form of Liposuction (called Tumescent Liposuction) compared to the traditional way that most people think of when discussing this procedure. Most individuals have seen liposuction performed on TV displaying a very violent procedure while the patient is under general anesthesia. This unfortunately leaves an uneasy feeling and fear about liposuction and utimately turns away many people that could benefit from this wonderful procedure.
We are pleased to inform the public that these fears are not warranted due the the safe and much more effective style of liposuction performed at Alouf Aesthetics. Patients are completely awake and do not have to be subjected to the unnessesary risks of general anesthesia. Also, there is minimal bruising and discomfort from this procedure. In addition, patients can be back to work in 1-2 days compared to 1-2 weeks from the older style of liposuction. Finally, the instruments used are much smaller and less invasive. This ultimately results in less trauma to the area and much improved results.
The word tumescent means swollen and firm. Tumescent liposuction uses large volumes of a dilute solution of lidocaine, a local anesthetic, in combination with the vasoconstrictive drug epinephrine, which temporarily shrinks capillaries. This feature of costricting blood vessels results in very little blood loss during the procedure. Actually there is more blood lost during a routine blood draw during a physical exam than during the entire Tumescent Liposuction procedure. Minimal blood loss resutls in very little bruising. The lack of brusing results in decreased pain and a much quicker recovery time.
Local anesthesia used in tumescent liposuction is so effective that patients no longer need intravenuous sedatives, narcotic analgesics, or general anesthesia. Over the years, numerous patients who previously had liposuction with general anesthesia have had second treatments with tumescent liposuction. Virtually every one of these paitents have found tumescent liposuction to be less painful, to provide better results and result in more rapid healing and recovery.
It is also the only technique that, in the hands of an expert surgeon, permits liposuction totally by local anesthesia, avoiding the dangers of general anesthesia, IV sedation and narcotic analgesics.
There are surgeons who prefer to simultaneously use general anesthesia and tumescent liposuction. Some surgeons rely on general anesthesia because they do not have the skill to achieve complete anesthesia with tumescent liposuction. Others recommend general anesthesia just because they prefer patients to be unconscious. Still others use general anesthesia because it permits liposuction to be completed more rapidly.
However, the use of general anesthesia should not be based on what is most convenient for the surgeon, but rather what is best for the patient. Ultimately, the patient should choose the type of anesthesia.
Our staff shares our commitment toward helping you achieve your goals for self-improvement. Your consultation will be personal and private, or you can bring your spouse or friend if you wish.
v LIPOSUCTION AND BODY SCULPTURE
Body sculpture by liposuction is literally a dream come true. Localized accumulations of fat, are often inherited and frequently prove impossible to eliminate by exercise or diet. Liposuction can now be used to permanently remove these accumulations of fat and never to plague you again.
v ABOUT FAT
Body fat of an adult tends to increase gradually over the years. After the age of 30, an individual tends to add fat according to a genetically predetermined pattern. This fat distribution is often resistant to exercising and dieting. An example of a genetically predetermined fat distribution which is resistant to dieting and exercise is the fat that appears on the abdomen and hips of a woman after pregnancy.
For many people who have inherited excessive accumulations of fat, liposuction is the only realistic mean of changing the body’s silhouette. In effect, liposuction is equivalent to being able to focus the effects of dieting to specific areas of the body.
v WHAT IS LIPOSUCTION
The concept of liposuction is surprisingly simple. Liposuction is a surgical technique that improves the body’s contour by removing excess fat from fatty deposits located between the skin and muscle.
Liposuction involves the use of a small stainless steel tube, called a cannula. The cannula is connected to a very powerful suction pump and is inserted through small skin incisions. The removal of fat is accomplished as the suction and cannula creates tiny tunnels through the fatty layers. After surgery, these tiny tunnels collapse resulting in an improved body contour.
v PERMANENCE OF RESULTS
Fat cells that are removed by liposuction do not grow back. As long as the patient does not gain excessive amounts of weight, the new, more pleasing silhouette is permanent. A woman who always tends to put weight on her thighs and knees, will find that after liposuction, these areas are less likely than other areas to accumulate fat when she gains weight. In fact a number of patients have had liposuction and have subsequently gained weight. The areas originally treated by liposuction have maintained their new desirable silhouette, whereas areas not treated by liposuction have been the sites of new deposits of fat.
v WHO IS A GOOD CANDIDATE FOR LIPOSUCTION?
The best candidates for liposuction are in good health and have realistic expectations of liposuction. There is not an age limit or weight limit for patients who are “good candidates” for liposuction. Most of our patients have localized accumulations of fat. However, some of the happiest patients have been individuals who are somewhat obese. It is important to emphasize that liposuction is not a treatment for general obesity. Liposuction surgery is not effective as a last resort for people who are unable to maintain a reasonable weight by dieting. However, an overweight person whose weight has been stable for many years and has certain problem areas of fat may be an excellent candidate for liposuction.
v WHAT IS A SUCCESSFUL LIPOSUCTION SURGERY?
Liposuction surgery is a success when the patient is happy with the results. The surgeon’s goal is to achieve an optimal aesthetically appealing result rather than to maximize the amount of fat removed. The cosmetic success of liposuction relies on removing inches rather than pounds. For example, removing an amount of fat equivalent to a half-pound of butter from each outer thigh of a woman’s saddlebag area or from a man’s love handle areas would result in a dramatic change in silhouette, but would not significantly change the person’s weight.
v DEVELOPMENT OF TUMESCENT LIPOSUCTION
Although liposuction is a relatively new form of cosmetic surgery, there have been several recent improvements in the technique. One of the most significant improvements has been the introduction of tumescent liposuction, developed by Jeffrey A. Klein, M.D. in 1985. It permits liposuction by local anesthesia instead of general anesthesia. Despite being developed about 20 years ago, it has taken some time to become popular in the medical field. This technique is now considered the safest form of liposuction for removing very large amounts of fat because there is virtually no blood loss. Not only has tumescent liposuction proven to be safer than the standard technique using general anesthesia but it also has proven to be less painful, has minimized post operative recovery time, and has produced optimal cosmetic results.
Tumescent liposuction was first presented by Dr. Klein in 1986 at the Second World Congress of Liposuction Surgery in Philadelphia. His article that first described the technique appeared in the American Journal of Cosmetic Surgery in 1987.
v LIPOSUCTION BY LOCAL ANESTHESIA
The word tumescent means swollen and firm. Tumescent liposuction uses large volumes of a dilute solution of lidocaine, a local anesthetic, in combination with the vasoconstrictive drug epinephrine, which temporarily shrinks capillaries.
Local anesthesia used in tumescent liposuction is so effective that patients no longer need intravenous sedatives, narcotic analgesics, or general anesthesia. Over the years, numerous patients who previously had liposuction with general anesthesia have had second treatments with tumescent liposuction. Virtually every one of these patients has found tumescent liposuction to be less painful, to provide better results and to result in more rapid healing and recovery.
v VIRTUALLY NO BLOOD LOSS
As a result of the widespread capillary constriction caused by the epinephrine in the anesthetic solution, there is minimal bleeding during and after surgery. This is a major improvement in the liposuction technique compared to older methods that simply use general anesthesia.
Dr. Klein recently completed a study of large volume liposuction of 112 patients, each of whom had between 1,500 ml to 3,400ml (1.5 quarts to nearly 1 gallon) of fat removed using tumescent liposuction. None of these patients required a blood transfusion. In fact, the average patient lost approximately three teaspoons (15 ml) of blood. Tumescent liposuction is so effective at minimizing blood loss that the majority of patients with large volume liposuction loss less blood during the surgery than they do at the time of their routine pre-operative laboratory studies.
v SAFETY FIRST
With tumescent liposuction, our patients have never required hospitalization, blood transfusion, nor have there been any infections or other serious complications.
Dr. Alouf’s philosophy is that safety comes first. More dangerous forms of liposuction are not part of the “First do no harm” belief. Tumescent Liposuction meets very safe and effective standards in the cosmetic field. Dr. Alouf also believes in being prepared to handle any unexpected complications, while at the same time being well prepared and trained to take care of any potential emergency.
v TUMESCENT TECHNIQUE IS LESS PAINFUL THAN GENERAL ANESTHESIA
Some patients have had liposuction by another surgeon using general anesthesia prior to having tumescent liposuction. Virtually every one of these patients has said that tumescent liposuction is a dramatically less painful experience than with general anesthesia. With tumescent liposuction, infiltrating the local anesthesia is associated with minimal discomfort. Once the area has been completely numbed, surgery in the area is essentially painless. In addition, because the local anesthesia persists in the treated area for more than 12 hours, there is no pain immediately after the surgery.
v RISKS OF ANY SURGERY
As with any surgical procedure, liposuction is associated with certain common side-effects such as bruising, swelling, and temporary numbness. Although irregularities of the skin are possible following liposuction, this side-effect is minimized by tumescent liposuction. Previous liposuction techniques use larger cannulas and occasionally patients experience more irregularities of the skin. Since using micro cannulas, noticeable irregularities are very rare.
Because of the slow resolution of post surgical swelling, the ultimate results following liposuction usually require 12 to 16 weeks to become fully apparent. Nevertheless, patients can usually see dramatic improvements within two to four weeks after surgery.
Although the results of liposuction are often quite spectacular, it is not realistic to expect perfection. Liposuction of the thighs, while improving the silhouette, does not necessarily eliminate the subtle “puckering” of the skin that is often referred to as “cellulite.” Tumescent liposuction does not reduce the degree of cellulite but it is unlikely to make it worse.
As judged by current world-wide experience, liposuction is amazingly safe. To the best of our knowledge, there have never been any reported serious complications using tumescent liposuction.
Rare problems that can potentially occur with any surgical procedure include infections, bleeding, and liver damage, but tumescent liposuction minimizes these risks.
v DECREASED RISKS OF INFECTION WITH TUMESCENT TECHNIQUE
Infections are extremely rare, regardless of the anesthetic technique. Although there have been reports in the medical literature of patients who have had serious infections following liposuction surgery. To the best of our knowledge there has never been any patients who have had an infection following liposuction by local anesthesia using tumescent liposuction. With tumescent liposuction the areas being treated are injected with lidocaine , the local anesthetic, which kills bacteria. Therefore, using the tumescent technique reduces the risk of infection.
v BETTER AND SMOOTHER RESULTS
The large volumes of dilute local anesthetics infiltrated into the fatty tissue causes the tissue to become swollen and firm, or tumescent. Tumescent liposuction magnifies the fatty area that is to be treated by liposuction. If there is an area that has not been completely treated, this is more easily detected because the area is swollen and enlarged. Thus the risk of post-surgical irregularities and unevenness is minimized.
With tumescent liposuction very small cannulas are used, which permits a more delicate and gentle approach to liposuction. The liposuction cannulas, which have been specifically designed for tumescent liposuction, are 2.0 to 3.0 mm in diameter. These micro cannulas require a minimal amount of force in order to advance them into the fatty tissue. As a result, surgery is much gentler and the surgeon can control the direction and position of the cannula with greater accuracy. The ultimate result is a greatly reduced risk of inadvertently approaching too close to the under surface of the skin and unintentionally causing irregularities.
v ARE SCARS VISIBLE?
Because tumescent liposuction uses very small cannulas, only tiny incisions are required and the incisions are so small that no stitches are used. The wounds heal on their own and most of these tiny incisions disappear spontaneously with time.
v HOW IS THE SKIN AFFECTED?
The degree of skin change after liposuction is the same as one would expect if it were possible to lose an equal amount of fat by dieting. Because the small cannulas simply make small tunnels through the fat, there remain multiple connections between the skin and the underlying tissue. These fibrous connections contract with the healing process and maintain the skin in its natural position. After liposuction by tumescent liposuction, one does not have to worry about excessive folds of the skin in the areas treated by liposuction. This effect is so dramatic that many patients who previously would have required a surgical excision of skin, called a tummy tuck, can now have excellent results simply by having liposuction.
v DECREASED BRUISING
There is dramatically less bruising using local anesthesia for liposuction as compared to general anesthesia. There are two reasons for this significant decrease in bruising. First, there is so little bleeding with tumescent liposuction, there is almost no blood that remains beneath the skin after surgery to cause bruising.
The second reason for decreased bruising is that with tumescent liposuction there is a considerable amount of post-operative drainage consisting of a slightly blood tinged anesthetic solution. Because the incision sites are so small and do not require stitches, these wounds are slightly open for two to three days after the surgery and permit more of the residual anesthetic solution and a minute amount of blood to drain out. This minimizes bruising and swelling and accelerates the rate of healing.
v IMMEDIATE POST-OPERATIVE RECOVERY
After liposuction by general anesthesia, patients must be observed in a recovery room until it can be determined that they have not lost too much blood, and that the post-operative nausea and vomiting is not too profound. With tumescent liposuction, there is virtually no blood loss and with local anesthesia there is rarely any nausea.
Because it does take additional time to inject the local anesthesia with liposuction by tumescent liposuction the patient does remain on the surgical table longer than with liposuction by general anesthesia. However, because the recovery time is so short, the total amount of time that the patient is in the surgical facility is much shorter with tumescent liposuction than general anesthesia. After completion of liposuction by tumescent liposuction, patients are discharged home in about 30 minutes.
v QUICK RETURN TO NORMAL ACTIVITIES
By not using stitches to close incision sites, there is acceleration in the rate of healing. Open incision sites permit drainage of the slightly blood tinged anesthetic solution. This has had a dramatic effect in minimizing bruising and most patients now notice that bruising is almost entirely absent one week after surgery.
Tumescent liposuction eliminates bleeding and because the residual anesthetic solution drains out quickly, there is less inflammation and the healing process is significantly accelerated.
The significant decease in swelling and decrease in inflammation and pain after the surgery, patients are able to return to normal physical activity other than what common sense would dictate. Some patients are able to return to jogging, golf, light aerobic exercise within a day or two after the surgery. Some patients do find the soreness after surgery more significant than others, but on the average most patients are quite surprised at how quickly they are able to return to normal activity.
Dr. Alouf has had extensive training in Tumesent Liposuction. His training has taken him to Scottsdale, AZ, Los Angeles, CA, and to Rome, Italy where he has been personally trained and instructed by the Inventor of Liposuction (Dr. Georgio Fischer, Italy), the Inventor of the Syringe Technique in Liposuction (Dr. Pierre Fornier, France), and the inventor of the Tumescent Technique (Dr. Jeffrey Klein, California). His tireless efforts training in Liposuction are soley motivated to enhance safety and efficacy for patients undergoing this procedure.
Botox® for Migraines
Migraine Headaches
In 2003, the World Health Organization estimated that as many as 303 million people worldwide suffer from migraines. With the prevalence and frequency of these debilitating headaches, and the noted relief Botox® injections often provide, many migraine clinics and plastic surgeons now offer Botox® as a headache treatment. However, this was not always the case. Botox® injections for migraines were discovered accidently during clinical testing for Botox® Cosmetic. When test patients who normally suffered from headaches reported fewer facial lines and fewer migraines, Botox® began its progression from popular cosmetic treatment to medical remedy.
How it Works
Botox® injections for migraines are currently in Phase III of their clinical studies. While they haven't been FDA-approved yet as a migraine treatment, Botox® injections for headaches are commonly administered by doctors and plastic surgeons as a viable treatment option. Dr. Alouf injects Botox® into the forehead, neck, and shoulders where patients are experiencing pain and tension. It is thought to eliminate migraines by reducing muscle tension and thus creating less strain on the nervous system. Not only can decreasing stress on the nervous system prevent migraines from developing, headaches that do occur are often less severe because Botox® purportedly blocks pain receptors in nerve cells.
Are Botox® Injections for Migraines Right for me?
The amount of injections or the number of Botox® session required for optimal results varies from patient to patient. For more information, please contact our office to schedule a consultation with Dr. Alouf.
Massage Therapy A massage can do wonders for your body, both physically and mentally. No longer considered just an indulgence, massage is a recognized, effective treatment for many health conditions which can include:
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Reducing stress and anxiety
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Increasing blood circulation and lymph function
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Relief to muscle and joint soreness
Massage can also help treat other ailments, such as:
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Arthritis
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Back Pain
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Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
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Headaches
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TMJ
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Bronchitis
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Depression
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Insomnia
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Myofascial Pain
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Sports Injuries
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Scar tissue reduction
Swedish Massage
Swedish massage is a vigorous system of treatment designed to energize the body by stimulating circulation. Five basic strokes, all flowing toward the heart, are used to manipulate the soft tissues of the body. The disrobed client is covered by a sheet, with only the areas being worked on exposed. Therapists use a combination of kneading, rolling, vibrational, percussive, and tapping movements, with the application of lotion or oil, to reduce friction on the skin.
The benefits of Swedish Massage may include generalized relaxation, dissolution of scar tissue adhesions and improved circulation, which may speed healing and reduce swelling from injury.
Deep Tissue Massage
Deep tissue massage is a massage technique that focuses on the deeper layers of muscle tissue. It aims to release the chronic patterns of tension in the body through slow strokes and deep finger pressure on the contracted areas, either following or going across the fibers of the muscles, tendons and fascia. It is used to release chronic muscle tension through slower strokes and more direct deep pressure or friction applied across the grain of the muscles.
A deep tissue massage helps loosen muscle tissues, release toxins from muscles and get blood and oxygen circulating properly.
Myofascial Massage
When muscle fibers are injured, the fascia fibers that surround the muscle become sore, tight and misaligned. This uneven stress can be spread through the fascia to other parts of the body, setting off pain and a variety of symptoms in areas you often wouldn't expect. Myofascial massage is the stretching, releasing and realigning of the fascia. The therapist works on the superficial layer and then progressively goes deeper without producing pain.
Healing Stone Therapy (Hot and Cold Stone)
Healing stone therapy is the application of either hot and/or cold stones to the body for the purpose of changing the physiological responses that are occuring in the body. For example, if you are having back pain or spasms, using cold stones will interrupt the cycle long enough to treat the area of discomfort and to aid the body in healing. This occurs by relaxing the spasming muscles and/or breaking up and releasing the toxins trapped within the tissue. Another benefit is increased circulation. Circulation is rapidly changed with the use of hot and cold stones. If circulation is increased, nutrition and the way that every cell functions is also increased. By increasing the blood flow through the skin, liver, bowels and kidneys; detoxification increases. This increase in circulation improves the quantity of newly oxygenated blood being brought to an area, which can aid in healing.
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