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ATLANTIC

First Impressions Rejuvenation Clinic Enhance

The scope of oral and maxillofacial surgery deﬁned by the Canadian Association as a specialty of dentistry includes the diagnosis, surgical and adjunctive treatment of disease, injury and defects involving both the functional and the esthetic aspect of hard and soft tissue of the oral and maxillofacial region.

Many of us, involved in the public system have been asked to treat multi trauma patients. Over the past years, patients have been treated by OMS for soft and hard tissue tissue trauma, but also involved in the treatment of facial cutaneous pathologies and post trauma reconstruction.

Although the OMS training is extensive, one requires formal additional training in cosmetic surgery to be able to perform and treat patients requiring cosmetic surgical needs. This is no di erent than Plastic surgery and Ear Nose and Throat surgeons, who also require additional training to be able to perform cosmetic procedures. The post graduatre training is not in itself complete to allow anyone to perform cosmetic surgical procedures.

The following, through the use of pictures, demonstrates some of these patients treated by OMS on a regular basis which fall under the current scope of Oral and maxillofacial surgeons.

The demand of esthetic procedures has increased with increased public awareness of the results that can be achieved. Oral and maxillofacial surgeons are often asked to perform such procedures due to their unique knowledge and training and specialized treatment of the facial region. These procedures require, therefore, an in-depth knowledge of the facial and cervical region, but also the current knowledge of what is currently available in order to address the patient’s chief complaint and treat the above in the most ideal procedure designed speciﬁcally for that patient. These could include surgical and non surgical procedures such as IPL lasers (Intense Pulse Light), Botox, ﬁllers, Sculptra, fat transfer,, Carbon dioxide laser (CO2) for skin rejuvenation and tighning and other modalities. Appropriate training and continual training is vital for OMS or any and all other speciality to be able to address the patient’s chief complain in the best and current treatment.

Patients frequently request a more deﬁne jaw line, the removal of excess submental fat, the improvement of facial laxity, the reduction of being tired, frontal and oral rhytides and overall, the need for facial rejuvenation, as well as the removal of aging spots, and cutaneous pathologies and post acne scar A variety of procedures are therefore available, however it is important to properly diagnose the patient and select the appropriate procedures to obtain the maximum result.

Patients who complain of skin laxity or facial rhytides are often advised that they require a surgical procedure. However, with today’s technology, the use of Botox, facial ﬁllers and radiofrequency may be a very good alternative, less invasive procedure and still obtain a very good result.

Dr Louis Bourget, Oral and maxillofacial surgeon

Fig 1. Traumatic patient after receiving a cement block in the face while driving, seen in ER, xray and 4 months post op

PATIENT ASSESSMENT

The initial work-up and accurate history as well as a detailed physical examination of the patient is therefore the primary goa l in order to achieve the patient’s chief complaint and allow proper diagnosis and treatment. The patient’s skin tone and laxity is evaluated to determine if the patient’s chief complaint is a cutaneous problem or a more underlying redraping that is required. One can never underestimate the need for proper skin care prior to any surgical or nonsurgical treatment.

Once the skin has been examined and addressed, the surgeon would then evaluate the patient no di erent than evaluating patient s for jaw surgery. However, one has to now look at soft tissue and the hard tissue combination and determine if hard tissue surgery is required such as chin implant, cheek implants, and orthognathic surgery in order to obtain a more ideal result. This is an adv antage that oral and maxillofacial surgeons have compared to our medical colleagues. One cannot forget that the evaluation of the sub mental region, the position of the hyoid bone, the submandibular glands as well as the presence of the jowls, platysmal bandings need to be evaluated in the lower third of the face, whereas in the middle part of the face, the deﬂating or soft tissue loss must be e valuated in order to obtain a youthful appearance. The upper third also needs to be evaluated which includes the forehead length, the brow position, the strength of the corrugator and procerus muscles as well as the level of dermatochalasia (excess skin) of the upper and lower lids as well as the lid laxity, the ocular evaluation of dryness and any orofacial pathology. A systemic and organized evaluation of the patient’s face is required for any facial rejuvenation, especially in order to obtain the ideal treatment to address the chief complaint.

Proper photographs and x rays are required to help in the overall analysis. With the advent of 3D facial pictures and cone beam technology, OMS are at a distict advantage to be able to diagnose the patients list of problems in a more accurate and scientiﬁc method. The use of computer programs to help in the treatment planning and patient educationis becoming the standard of care

Facial rejuvenation can be devided in two large categories, non surgical and surgical treatments

NONSURGICAL TREATMENT

When looking at all the magazines and social media, many patients would like to see and be advised if a nonsurgical treatment is possible. These treatments include;proper skin care and product utilization. the utilization of Botox, which relaxes the muscles due to a competitive blocking, facial ﬁllers, Sculptra as well as the use of skin tightening laser.. One should also include the utilization of C02 lasers for facial resurfacing, chemical peels and the utilization of lasers for the removal of skin lesions of hyperpigmentation and actinic solar changes. Although nonsurgical, these do carry a certain risk and complication, a good consultation is therefore required. C02 laser resurfacing and chemical peels are also di erent treatment modalities in order to help the skin texture and help in the reorganization of collagen and elastin ﬁbers.

CO2 laser with pre-op,

week later, 2 weeks and 6 weeks post op

SURGICAL MODALITIES

Depending on the patient’s assessment obtained, oral and maxillofacial surgeons have a unique ability to address hard and soft tissues in order to obtain a more ideal facial balance but also address the aging phase. One could divide the treatment modalities from a bony reconstruction to a soft tissue reconstruction. Oral and maxillofacial surgeons are well-versed in the treatments of bone reconstruction via orthognathic surgery, chin implant, cheek implants, and posterior mandibular implants in order to permanatly increase volume as well as height.

One could see from the following pictures that with the use of orthognathic surgery, facial aging and rejuvenation have been addressed via conventional orthognathic surgery. A functional problem creating an esthetic result due to soft and hard tissue evaluation

Fig.

0ne

One can also see from the following picture the use of chin implant and cervicofacial liposuction in order to improve the cervicofacial excess and obtain a more mandibular line deﬁnition.

One can also address the di erent thirds of the face as per the cutaneous (skin) changes via di erent treatment modalities. In cosmetic surgery, one also has to keep in mind that small changes in di erent third can have a very positive e ect n the face as a whole Although too long to discuss in this article, Surgical procedures can include but not restricted to:

Open and endoscopic forehead and brow lift, upper and lower blepharoplasty, orbital decompression for gracves disease, ptosis repair of the levelator aponerosis system, orbital fat repositioning, mid cheek lift, contour threads, rhytidectomy (short and long scar lift, simple to complex face lifts and smas manipulation) platysmal plasty, re insertion of smas in the nasolabial folds, mento labial folds or the lips, subnasal lip lift and others. One can also combine non surgical and surgical therapy to allow maximum beneﬁts and de crease the risks of surgery and down time.

Laser resurfacing can also be done at the same time as a facial rhytidectomy, giving an amazing result and combined down time

SUMMARY

Facial rejuvenation is well within the scope of oral and maxillofacial surgery With the ability to diagnose the proper area of concern and utilizing the adequate treatment modality, one can have very satisﬁed and happy patients. The use of preoperative and postoperative skin care product is also important in order to maintain the results on a long term basis, understanding that facial aging will continue, even after all procedures performed.

For the past 16 years, I have devoted a large part of my practice to facial cosmetics requiring constant continuing education i n skin care, dermatology, facial plastics, current thoughts and procedures in facial rejuvenation as well as the constant evaluations of di erent lasers available, tissue ﬁllers that constantly change and improve in order to allow the delivery of safer products and allow one to treat our patient with the current methods.

Email: nlreception@drbourget.com

91 Roe Avenue

Gander, Newfoundland A1V 1W8

Phone : 709-381-6637

Fax: 709-381-6638

18 Acadia Street

Dartmouth, NS B2Y 4H3

Phone: 902-334-0700

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WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT COLON CANCER

• Cancers of the colon and rectum develop from abnormal growths in the colon — called polyps.

• It takes at least 10 years for a small polyp to develop into a cancer.

• Small polyps don’t bleed, but as the polyp grows in size, it is more and more likely to bleed.

• Nova Scotia’s home screening kit for colon cancer tests for hidden blood coming from abnormalities in the colon, including cancers and the polyps that can lead to cancer

• All Nova Scotians, who are between 50 and 74 years old and are registered with MSI (have a Nova Scotia Health Card), will automatically get a home screening test in the mail every two years,close to their even birthday

• Not all polyps will develop into cancer, but if all the polyps that could cause cancer are discovered and removed, cancer is prevented. And if a cancer is found before it causes symptoms,the chances of complete cure are greatly increased.

• A test that is positive for hidden blood does NOT mean you have cancer. There are a number of di erent

• It is important to repeat the test every 2 years. A small polyp that is not bleeding today may become large enough to bleed in two years time. If so, the bleeding will be discovered when you get the next kit in the mail — so you should do the test again.

• We know that the test saves lives in Nova Scotia. Since we started o ering the test, over 5000 Nova Scotians with no bowel symptoms have had polyps removed and 329 Nova Scotians have been found to have cancer

For more information about the Colon Cancer Prevention Program or the test kit, visit our website www.cancercare.ns.ca/coloncancerprevention or call us toll free at 1-866-599-2267. causes of hidden blood coming from the colon. A colonoscopy is needed to nd the cause

First Impressions Rejuvenation Clinics: Synonymous with Excellence in Medical Aesthetic Treatments

First Impressions Rejuvenation Clinic is the first Medical Aesthetic Clinic in Atlantic Canada to offer a non-surgical, non-filler, collagen stimulating facelift. It has two locations in Atlantic Canada. Their first location is at 465-D George Street in Sydney, Nova Scotia. Their second location is at 620 Nine Mile Drive in Bedford, Nova Scotia.

Deborah Hart, the owner of both locations, says this about their proprietary treatment NaturesLift (TM). “It stimulates cellular regeneration via growth factors, creating volume and dermal repair of the skin and is proven to slow down the aging process. This treatment boosts collagen and elastin production, activates stem cells and extracellular matrixes. It stimulates new tissue growth which can resolve several different problematic skin conditions that stem from the aging process, restoring vitality and youth. The treatment requires no down time for the patient. There are no incisions, no scarring, no rejection of the treatment. The same can’t be said about surgical treatments that are being offered at this time. I would suggest that anyone thinking of going the surgical route for treatment, give us a try first to see if you like what our treatment does, before resorting to surgical intervention.”

Hart has over thirty years of experience delivering rejuvenation and healthcare services both nationally and internationally. She began her Nurse Practitioner career as a Specialty Emergency/Trauma Nurse Practitioner and Primary Health Care (PHC) Nurse Practitioner, treating families of all ages since 2009. She received her Bachelor of Science degree in both Nursing (Dalhousie University) and in Biology/Chemistry (St. Mary’s University). She earned her Master of Nursing, Nurse Practitioner from Dalhousie University.

She is also a Veteran, having worked both as a Medic and a Registered Nurse for over ten years with the Department of National Defence. Her experience was transitioned into Atlantic Canada’s first Collaborative Emergency Departments in 2012 after working Emergency, Trauma and PHC in Canada’s Arctic and shortly thereafter shifted into Entrepreneur Nursing and her First Impressions Rejuvenation Clinics.

She belongs to numerous professional associations. Hart is a member, presenter and expert member for the Canadian Board of Aesthetic Medicine, Canadian Society of Specialty Aesthetic Nurses,, a member of the International Association of Plastic and Aesthetic Nurses, International Association for Physicians in Aesthetic Medicine, Canadian Association of Medical Spas & Aesthetic Surgeons, Nova Scotia College of Nurses, College of Registered Nurses of Alberta, College of Nurses of Ontario, Dermatology Nurses Association, Society of Nursing Scientists, Innovators, Entrepreneurs & Leaders, the International Honors Society of Nursing-Sigma Theta Tau and other National and International Associations.

Hart opened the first independently owned and operated Nurse Practitioner clinics in Nova Scotia and Atlantic Canada. The clinics are steadfast in their commitment to the medical specialty of non-surgical Rejuvenation & Anti-aging medicine. Patients travel across the province, country and internationally for her teams’ clinical services and positive results.

Deborah is an expert accreditation reviewer for the Canadian Nurses Association for the Medical Aesthetics education industry, and an expert panel member and reviewer for the Canadian Society of Aesthetics Specialty Nurses. As a pioneer in this industry in Atlantic Canada, she has educated many of the current providers in their medical aesthetics training. The Atlantic Training Institute for Medical Aesthetics is located within Hart’s clinics. She owns and operates the Training Institute, as well as being Head instructor and a part of the faculty. Hart trains nurses & physicians, nationally and internationally on this platform in addition to being an expert panel member and faculty for the Canadian Board of Aesthetic Medicine. Previously she was a member of the Board for the Canadian Association of Medical Aesthetics. First Impressions clinicians are educated to the highest standards. She also teaches at the graduate level, teaching for Athabasca University’s Master of Nursing, Nurse Practitioner Program.

First Impressions began offering services in 2013 growing from a single treatment room to four in their Sydney location. They rapidly expanded the clinic again to a second location at the start of the pandemic in March of 2020 in Bedford on the corner of Nine Mile Dr and Larry Uteck. Since then, they have further expanded their Sydney clinic from 4 to 8 treatment rooms. “We have grown exponentially and primarily by word of mouth, which is the biggest complement and attestation to our services.” Hart describes their journey from one small clinic to a thriving business with two busy locations.

The First Impressions’ clinics have a reputation for quality, safe and natural outcomes; this is a result of over 65 years of combined clinical staff experience in medical aesthetics, skin and body health and rejuvenation treatments.

Hart states, “Our clients come here to avoid complications and to be cared for safely. Here they know that they are protected and kept out of harm’s way. Many of our patients tell us they’ve been receiving compliments about how wonderfully and gracefully they’re aging and being asked what they’re doing to look so good. We cannot stress enough the importance of going to a reputable and skilled clinic that has your safety and outcomes as their top priority. First Impressions is dedicated to the delivery of medical aesthetics and rejuvenation services, and patient education. We ensure that you are always being treated by highly trained, professional staff who are knowledgeable about the best and safest techniques to use in providing treatments to their clients.”

The clinics offer the following treatments: Neuromodulators, Dermal Fillers, Coolsculpting®, Fotona® Tightwave®/Intima wave®, EndyMed ®, Broadband light (BBL®), Halo®skin resurfacing, DiVa® treatments, Platelet Rich Plasma, Microneedling, BelaMd®, Medical grade facials and chemical peels, and Medical Grade Skin Care products.

The primary neuromodulators or anti-wrinkle treatments that First Impressions offers are Botox® and Nuceiva®.

They carry the following dermal fillers Juvéderm®, Teoxane®, RHA® and Redensity® to restore, enhance and create facial balancing.

Fotona Tightwave® tones, strengthens, sculpts, and builds muscles. Intimawave® does the same but is focused on pelvic floor strengthening and treating urinary incontinence. Emsculpt® is Tightwave’s® closest competitor, however it’s really not a competitor at all. Tightwave® emits more power, has more versatility and is also a medical devise used for muscle,

joint and pelvic floor rehabilitation. It delivers approximately 50,000 muscle contractions under 30 minutes, plus it is less costly than Emsculpt and treats more areas.

Endymed® provides radiofrequency and fractional skin resurfacing for facial and body remodelling, contouring, and skin tightening, a similar treatment to what many offer as Morpheus®, only with less discomfort, less costly to patients and a 90% patient satisfaction rate; it also enables nonsurgical eyelifts.

The Broadband Light (BBL®) via Sciton® Joule is employed for treatments like ForeverYoung®, photofacials, which reverse hyperpigmentation/ browns and vascularises, rosacea and vascular treatments, they are scientifically proven to reverse skin damage, the signs of aging and the age of our skin. With BBL® treatments such as ForeverBare® (permanent hair removal) and ForeverClear® (acne treatment) also provide amazing outcomes. BBL® treatments improve the overall tone of a patient’s skin and is also used as a preventative regime that can physically reverse effects of everyday life and the environment.

The Halo® laser is used for skin resurfacing for tone, texture, scarring, fine lines, and wrinkles and creating that Halo glow, a top treatment at the clinic.

DiVa® and DiVaTyte® procedures address and treat urinary incontinence, vaginal laxity, libido, and general symptoms of menopause. This treatment gives women back their life and confidence.

Platelet Rich Plasma is used at the clinic to regenerate hair growth, for those suffering with hair loss. It is also used for sensual/sexual wellness – libido treatments, erectile dysfunction, as well as urinary incontinence treatments, nonsurgical breast lifts, sensation restoration and more.

The clinic also performs the following treatments: skin tag and mole removal, Microneedling DP4®/Mesotherapy, BelaMd® (a Hydro facial +), medical grade facials and chemical peels and carries Medical Grade Skin care products.

All of the treatments offered by First Impressions Rejuvenation Clinic are science-backed, evidence-based, highly innovative, award-winning and Health Canada approved products and services. The main focus of the services and products that they provide is to enhance an individual’s confidence in the body and skin they’re in.

“First Impressions is founded on the principles of helping people maximize their overall health and well-being. Preventative medicine is the essential foundation for maintaining vitality as we age and includes healthy food choices, regular physical activity, a balanced lifestyle, and a good skincare regime.” points out Hart.

First Impressions Rejuvenation Clinics are known as experts in their field and are leaders in innovation, education, and safety in the Medical Aesthetics industry. Their highest demand treatments include neuromodulators, dermal fillers, medical grade laser and BBL®, platelet rich plasma treatments, radiofrequency, and resurfacing, Coolsculpting®, body contouring and sexual wellness.

“Sometimes society can get caught up in brand names and marketing versus actual outcomes. The outcome of the treatment is greatly dependent upon the skills and experience of the clinician in combination with the type of treatment chosen.” explains Hart. First Impressions only provides the most scientific-backed modalities, because results matter.

The majority of their clients are between the ages of 30-59 years old. But both clinics do see patients of all ages that include teens suffering from acne, acne scarring, cherry angiomas and more mature patients who are 65+. First Impressions estimates that men make up approximately 10 –15% of their patients. Hart equivocates this percentage to global statistics.

staff certified, licenced, and continuously receiving advanced education in their respective fields.

When patients come to either of the First Impressions clinics, they have a thorough consultation, which includes a review of their health and medical history by the treating clinician and the Nurse Practitioner. By doing this the clinic ensures that it is safe for each individual patient to receive these types of treatments. Sometimes, patients are not aware of the importance of needing such a thorough investigation into their health and medical history; they may not have received this information from previous providers. Patients seeking these types of treatments may find confusing, the medical treatments offered by medi-spas/clinics with similar esthetic treatments offered by salons and spas. However, First Impressions treatments are ‘medical’ cosmetic in nature and so patient safety is of the upmost importance.

“Facial balancing and natural outcomes are the cornerstone of our services.”, emphasizes Hart. “Our skilled providers ensure natural results.”

At the consultation, patient’s goals are discussed, appropriate and thorough assessments are completed, recommendations and treatment plans are determined in collaboration with their First Impressions clinical provider(s), these are designed to achieve a natural outcome through rejuvenation, restoration, and enhancement to deliver the best results for each individual.

“Over the last 5 to 10 years we are seeing more and more men coming for these services. They are realizing that they need self care and skin care as well. It helps their self confidence and their self image.” describes Hart.

First Impressions Rejuvenation Clinic’s are recognized as leaders and pioneers in the Aesthetic industry in Atlantic Canada. They were the first full time clinics in Atlantic Canada fully devoted to nonsurgical rejuvenation services. Their dedication to safe and informed care is at the foundation of all that they do. Certification, regulation, evidenced based care and ongoing education is the foundation of their services with all their clinical

Hart states, “Follow up appointments are important, and included. Our patients know that we are here for them for any questions they may have between and during visits. Patients are not ‘a treatment’, this is a relationship; patients are valued, and respected and their results and safety are our priority.”

Between the two First Impressions Clinics, there are nine staff. They include two Nurse Practitioners, four Registered Nurse Injectors, three Medical Aestheticians and two Patient Care Coordinators. This exemplary team has tremendous integrity and pursues excellence in their patient’s results. Patients see, feel and comment on this every day in their clinics.

Hart describes the clinics’ philosophy on patient care in this way, “Our team values patients’ health, goals, and safety as the foundational principles that profoundly shapes the delivery of our care. We believe in patient-centric care, prioritizing individualized treatments, tailored to patients’ health needs, preferences, and objectives. Empathy and understanding enable us to prioritize each patient’s unique needs, concerns, and goals, fostering an empathetic connection that guides personalized care. We empower our patients with comprehensive and accurate information about their concerns, health conditions, treatment options, risks, and benefits, ensuring they have the information needed for them to make informed decisions regarding their treatments. We believe that upholding the highest ethical standards in healthcare, ensuring honesty, transparency, and accountability in all interactions and decisions, fostering a sense of integrity and trust among patients and colleagues is paramount; implementing stringent safety measures, quality controls, and adherence to best practices ensures the safety of our patients throughout their journey. And last, but not least, engaging in continuous learning, staying updated with the latest

research, innovation, evidence-based practices, and incorporating this knowledge into patient care, enables our clinicians to continuously deliver high standards of care and excellent patient results.” It’s been said, people don’t need to go to LA for these treatments, they’re all offered here at First Impressions. Interestingly enough, Deborah has trained there too.

First Impressions Rejuvenation Clinic, Deborah, has been nominated for and received a multitude of awards and accolades for their work. They are a certified Women-Owned Business with the “Women Business Enterprise”. Hart and the clinics have received annual nominations since 2019 for the ‘Excellence in Business – Business of the Year Awards’, ‘‘Canadian Women Entrepreneur- Women of Influence Awards’, ‘RBC Women of Influence Micro-Business Awards’, and the ‘RBC Women of Influence Momentum Awards’, premier national awards celebrating the achievements of the most successful women entrepreneurs in the country. First Impressions has also received multiple nominations for the Cape Breton and Halifax Chambers’ of Commerce Awards for the “Excellence in Business Award”, “Business Leader of the Year Award’ and ‘Business of the Year Award’ in 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, and 2023.

Deborah is one of the first forty Nurses, globally, to obtain certification in Entrepreneurship from Drexel University in the Charles D. Close School of Entrepreneurship. She has also been featured in a multitude of podcasts and been featured in ‘The Business Voice’ and ‘Inc Magazine’.

But Deborah attributes First Impressions’ success to their dedicated staff and their community that supports them in their entrepreneurial efforts. Hart. her clinics, and her staff are strong believers in giving back to their communities. For that reason, they consistently and continuously support local charities and their communities. They support Shelter Nova Scotia, local Food Banks, Kids Help Phone, local Hospital foundations, Pathways to Employment, Elizabeth Fry Society, The Youth Project Society, and Make-a-Wish foundation, just to name a few. First Impressions staff, over and above all this, also contribute to local school events and fundraising auctions. But Hart and her staff don’t work alone, they also work with a multitude of other women entrepreneurs to sponsor important events and organizations in their communities and belong to 100 Women Who Care Cape Breton and Halifax.

The clinic also offers specials for nurses, teachers, first responders and veterans. “It is a reflection of my career path and a way for us to give back to those who care for us.” explains Hart.

The clinics have a free VIP rewards program that delivers a welcome offer, specials, and birthday rewards which can be used at each site. They also provide access to memberships and interest-free payment plan options. Patients who wish to join the VIP rewards program, can do so easily via QR code or direct URL. The clinics’ gift cards make the perfect gift, the gift of self-care. The First Impressions staff reminds us, we all need selfcare, physical, mental and emotional ‘tune-ups’, so we can look and feel less sad, angry or tired, and ultimately feel like our best self.

For more information on First Impressions Rejuvenation Clinics, or to request a consultation, visit their website at https://firstimpressionsclinic.ca/ or call 902-322-6805 (Sydney) or call 902-702-2727 (Bedford).

EVERY STEP COUNTS

Give your walking power and your health a boost with the help of a pedometer

By Barb Gormley

says Mike Mather. He was introduced to the handy stepcounting device, which clips to your waistband, two years ago at his diabetes education exercise class.

“Many people in the class didn’t realize how few steps they took in a day, especially if they had desk jobs,” says the 65-yearold travel agency owner from Deep Brook, N.S., who was diagnosed with diabetes seven years ago.

As part of the exercise program, his class took on the challenge of travelling all the way around Nova Scotia—on paper, that is! They combined their daily step totals, and were thrilled to successfully complete the 2,500-kilometre journey over the eight-week program.

Mr. Mather and his wife, Diane, challenged themselves to walk an impressive 10,000 steps per day during the program. “If at the end of the day one of us was 3,000 steps short, it motivated us to go for a walk that evening. I hate to lose!” he says.

Monitoring his steps became part of Mr. Mather’s daily routine, and even after the program was completed, he continued wearing his pedometer each morning.

“They work so well because they give instantaneous feedback, the same way video games do,” says Dr. James Mandigo, associate professor of physical education and kinesiology at Brock University in St. Catharines, Ont. “You always know how

While experts often cite 10,000 steps per day as an ideal target, this may be too ambitious a goal for people who are just getting started with activity, says Joanne Lewis, healthy eating and nutrition programming director for Diabetes Canada. (The average Canadian walks an estimated 3,000 to 4,000 steps per day.) Instead, she suggests that you determine your current walking activity level and then gradually increase it over time.

“Start by monitoring how many steps you take on an average day, then if you’re able to, add 500 per day until you eventually reach 10,000,” she says. “It may take a while, but in the meantime you’ll be more physically active than you were in the past!”

More good news

blood sugar control, A1C levels, cholesterol values and body weight,” says Dr. Paul Oh, a scientist and medical director of the Cardiac Rehabilitation and Secondary Prevention Program at the Toronto Rehabilitation Institute. He notes that a collection of studies have shown that, on average, people who wear pedometers take 2,000 more steps per day than people who don’t. Additional studies show that pedometer-wearers walk faster and more frequently, and are more likely to stick with a walking program, than those who don’t use one.

Research shows that walking can control,

A1C levels, cholesterol values and body weight.”

Dr. Paul Oh, scientist and medical director

HOW TO CHOOSE A GOOD PEDOMETER

Three things to look for:

1 Accuracy Poor-quality pedometers are often too sensitive or not sensitive enough. Do these two quick tests: i) Reset your pedometer to zero, and take 20 steps. An accurate pedometer will record 19 to 21 steps. ii) Stand still and wave your arms, as if you’re conducting an orchestra. An accurate pedometer will not record any steps.

2 Cover and safety strap A hard cover protects the face of the f it becomes unclipped.

3 Talking feature your pedometer, consider one with an audio feature that will announce your step count at 1,000-step milestones or at the touch of a button.

How to choose a good pedometer app

If you have a cellphone, look at the free pedometer apps available. Do the 20-step test (see above) to check them for accuracy, and explore their features. Some will map your route as you move about town, and track distance, elevation and speed. Also, determine if the app counts steps when your phone is in sleep mode, if it requires GPS and how much battery power it draws.

Every step counts, indoors and outdoors

Consciously adding extra bits of exercise—by taking the stairs instead of the elevator, walking over to a colleague’s desk instead of emailing, and pacing during phone calls and

total. And, of course, remember that the indoor steps you take while vacuuming, climbing stairs, and moving about the kitchen as you cook all count as well.

U K NOW ?

Regular physical activity helps you better manage your blood glucose and diabetes. During physical activity, active muscles allow your body to use

for one to two days. For more information, read “Planning for Regular Physical Activity” at diabetes.ca/planactivity.

For more information about Diabetes Canada, please visit diabetes.ca

Take a Walk sample program

Use this four-week beginners’ program to gradually and safely increase the amount of walking you do each day. Each week, increase your target by 500 steps over the previous week’s target. And don’t give up if you don’t meet your target!

Week 1: Use your pedometer to determine a baseline. Total weekly steps = ________

step average

Week 2: Increase your steps.

Week 2 target = ____

Week 3: Increase your steps.

Week 3 target = ____

Week 4: Increase your steps.

Week 4 target = ____

step average

A 5-Star Experience

Tr ue Clinical Aest hetics (Tr ue Clinic) is a specialized aest hetic injection clinic in bot h Halif ax and Sydney, Nova Scotia. Will Bland, Nurse Practitioner (NP), operates t he Halif ax Clinic, while fr iend and colleague, Chris Browner NP, operates t he Sydney Cape Breton clinic. Af ter opening t he doors in June of 2021

following the first covid lockdown - it became

quic kly apparent t hat t he initial sc hedule of one to two days a week was not enough – and t he Halif ax clinic has been providing aest hetic treatments full time Monday to Saturday weekly since ear ly 2022.

Tr ue Clinic has rapidly ear ned a reputation as one of t he top aest hetic injection clinics in Atlantic Canada. By specializing in Botox and Der mal Fillers, t hey focus t heir ef for ts on t heir training,

and client experience to achieve a very specific

goal, whic h is to be t he best at what t hey do.

Will explains, “If we were to of f er a broader range of treatments – it would be at t he expense of our existing clientele who appreciate t he accessibility and exper tise we are able to provide by maintaining t his nar row scope.”

Tr ue Clinic values t he personal exper ience ac hieved wit h a small clinic setup. They don’t aim to be t he ‘jac k of all trades’ in t he aest hetic industr y or t he largest clinic in t he area. They would rat her ser ve a smaller client base in a relaxed environment – t han a larger client base wit h a less personalized approac h.

“We began with a specific vision - and are not

going to let success alter our business values. We are stic king to t hat vision of a small and specialized aest hetic clinic wit h a strong reputation for natural and aest hetic results.

Client exper ience and satisf action will continue to be pr ior itized above all else. ” points out Will.

worked in the Halifax infirmary intensive care

Will Bland grew up in t he Annapolis valley and unit before transitioning to pr imar y care and t hen developing his aest hetic practice in t he Hydrostone mar ket of Halif ax. He has advanced injection training t hrough t he Canadian Board of Aest hetic Medicine in Toronto. The Halif ax Clinic hosted renowned Dr. Tom Van Eijk of t he Net her lands for his masterclass focusing on t he “f er n” tec hnique in t he summer of 2022. Will has also had multiple private mentor ing sessions wit h

renowned plastic surgeons to refine and

diversify his tec hniques.

fine lines and wrinkles from forming on the face

When asked what types of c hanges he can create using Botox injections, he responded wit h, “ The bread and butter of Botox treatments is wr inkle prevention and reduction. We’re able to prevent and sof ten t he ones t hat are already t here.”

hollowing out of t he f ace, as a person ages. Bland states, “ The two main pur poses t hat we use

restor ing volume and enhancing f eatures. As we age, it is natural to exper ience a reduction in t he volume of our f acial f at pads. We can replenish

injections t hrough saf e and accessible procedures ”

True Clinic also uses dermal fillers to combat the Hyaluronic Acid based dermal fillers for are these volume deficits with hyaluronic acid filler using filler. Lip filler is by far the most common

He goes on to say, “ We are also able to enhance f eatures suc h as lips, noses, c hins, and jaw lines f eature enhancement. There is a large var iance wit h respect to skill and tec hniques utilized for lip

filler by clinicians, and we pride ourselves in our

aest hetic results.”

Tr ue Clinic ser ves a wide and ever-expanding demographic. It ’s ver y common to have clients in t heir ear ly 20’s presenting for f eature enhancements suc h as lips and nose

enhancements with dermal filler - while most

appointments are preventative and wrinkle sof tening Botox for ages 30-60+. While pr imar ily f emale clients – t hey ser vice more males t han expected – and t he number of males explor ing Botox treatments is cer tainly on t he r ise!

“Our Customer Exper ience is our number one pr ior ity. We really have tr ied to make t he whole exper ience as simple and user friendly as possible. From t he moment somebody decides to book an appointment – to t he appointment itself – it is a straightfor ward, easy, and enjoyable exper ience.” states Will.

To book an appointment all a client must do is go to t heir website, clic k book now – and select a time. That ’s it! If a client knows t hat t hey want to have a Botox treatment because t hey have had Botox before – or understand what t hat entails –t hey simply need to book in for a Botox

tr ying t his treatment – t he appointment begins wit h a consultation and t hen proceeds to treatment. Please visit tr ueclinic.ca for more infor mation.

appointment. If it’s the first time that they are happy and satisfied. confident, and on a high that comes from a

Should a client come to Will wanting fuller lips, he stated, “Our main goal is to enhance t he overall appearance of t he lips. We take close up photos of t he patients’ lips and bring it up on t he screen and using a stylist draw on t he lips. The approac h depends on what t hey are coming to us for, be it for symmetr y, or a scar t hat t hey want to hide (e.g.: clef palette). We star t out slowly, wit h one procedure and t hen br ing t he client bac k af ter a couple of weeks. At t his point, we reassess and may continue t he treatment, if necessar y, to ac hieve a client ’s goal. It all really depends on what eac h client is looking for and what t heir goal is ”

When it comes to procedures, ever y client ’s anatomy is dif f erent, as is how a patient heals. “ We want to be ver y transparent about what c hanges are realistic to expect. We don’t want

to promise someone 100-% t hat t his is how it will look because ever yone is dif f erent and t here are many var iables t hat f actor into t he result.” descr ibes Will.

Tr ue Clinical Aest hetics Halif ax has a 5.0 rating on Google wit h over 300 clients leaving t heir clinic

“ We want clients leaving our clinic f eeling more positive and fun exper ience. Communication is as equally impor tant to us as injection skill – it is so cr ucial t hat patients tr uly understand what we are discussing and are on board wit h t he treatment plan. We want to provide and maintain t hat small

business experience for our clients, indefinitely.” Will Bland provides the final word.

For more information on True Clinical Aes thetics please visit Tr ue Clinic – Halif ax Botox ® - Lip Filler & Der mal Fillers.

Element5 Spa and Salon: Pampering Their Clients with Gender Neutral Services

In 2019, Element5 Spa and Salon eliminated gender reference services and introduced a genderless service menu. Their services are all based on timing and products. They have short/medium/long haircuts; and no polish manicures and pedicures (which all types of clients enjoy). They had to be a little creative for their Brazilian waxing/sugaring services, but they have managed to offer their full menu of services for their whole clientele, which includes private treatment rooms at both their locations.

“I see our role as empowering our industry of professionals (aestheticians, medical aestheticians, nail technicians, lash technicians, hair stylists, massage therapists) to realize how IMPORTANT their work is and how much it is needed and respected in our society.” explains Tracey MacDonald, owner of Element5 Spa and Salon in both Moncton and Saint John, New Brunswick.

She describes the services that they offer, “At Element5 Spa & Salon, we offer OmniMax Laser services (Hair Reduction, Skin Rejuvenation, Face & Body Contouring); Botox/Filler clinics, BioMedika Cosmeceutical facials with chemical peels, Registered Massage Therapy services, as well as a full (gender neutral**) Aveda Spa/Salon service menu which includes: manicures, pedicures, waxing, sugaring, tinting, nail enhancements, lash extensions, facials, body treatments; and, all Aveda hair colour, cutting and treatment services.”

MacDonald has always had a passion for the Health, Wellness and Beauty industry. Her greatest career joy has been working with this incredible team of Element5 Rockstars! Her dream was always to create a wellness/ spa environment with a team of professionals that reflected her passion for excellence. She grew up with entrepreneur parents and always knew that she wanted to pursue a career in business. She attended Dalhousie University, where she earned her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and went on to acquire her Master’s in Business Administration from York University in Toronto.

MacDonald acquired Element5 Spa and Salon in Saint John in 2017. Then, in 2019, she opened her second location in Moncton, New Brunswick, situated in the Mount Pleasant Plaza at 1579 Mountain Road.

In her pursuit to develop professionals in the health, wellness & beauty industry, in July 2023, she (along with her business partner, Keri Bodnar - an incredible Aveda Mentor and experienced educator) purchased the Majestany Institute on Rothesay Avenue in Saint John, New Brunswick and rebranded it as Infinite Beauty Academy (IBA). IBA is an Aveda exclusive school, where students are taught about and use all of the products offered by Aveda. MacDonald’s goal is to offer a curriculum that not only teaches the technical skills to offer the services in her industry, but to teach business & financial planning skills to help IBA students achieve higher levels of success in her industry!

It is her ultimate goal to make everyone feel welcomed and relaxed when they visit Element5 in Saint John or Moncton, and she works continuously with her dedicated team of professional service providers and guest service experts to achieve that goal.

After purchasing Element5 Spa & Salon Saint John in 2017, MacDonald added numerous services to the menu of services offered by the spa. “We have brought in the OmniMax Sharplight Laser services, Botox/Filler clinics, BioMedika Medical facials with chemical peels as well as other new spa/salon services to meet the demands of our clientele.”

MacDonald describes the services that they are best known for, “We are very well known for our Aveda pedicures. We are also known as a “one stop shop” for all skincare needs with our multiple facial offerings (Aveda and BioMedika), Laser skincare services, Botox/ Filler clinics, as well as a full retail boutique offering Aveda & BioMedika skincare products. Our clients also enjoy that we have a liquor license at both locations, so our clients can enjoy a mimosa or a glass of wine with their services.”

“We cater to everyone ages 3 (we offer kids haircuts and Inverness ear piercing) to 93 and beyond! We have an inclusive environment, demonstrated by our inclusive/genderless service menu.” MacDonald describing their clientele.

The Element5 Spa and Salon staff at both locations make customer service their top priority. “We strive to offer a First-Class experience without being

pretentious. That is our goal everyday with every guest. Our Guest Service Team is well trained to consult with our guests to book them in for the services that best suit their needs and our Retail Advisors are always available to assist with the best home care product recommendations to extend the benefits of the services they have enjoyed with us!” she points out.

“Our team culture is critically important to us; in fact, when it comes to recruiting, we value a “fit” for our culture as the highest criteria.” MacDonald highlights.

Element5 has a phenomenal team of professionals at both Element5 locations (and at Infinite Beauty Academy)! Currently, they have twentythree team members at their Saint John location. This includes their Leadership team of three managers, guest services team members, a freelance Botox/Filler doctor, registered massage therapists, Aveda hairstylists, Aveda Medical Aestheticians and Nail Technicians. Their Moncton location currently has ten team members which include a manager, guest services team members, Aveda hairstylists, Aveda medical

“We want clients to feel like they are travelling, they had coach tickets but are bumped up to first class because of all the little extra special things that we do.”

Element5 Spa and Salon: Pampering Their Clients with Gender Neutral Services

MacDonald acquired Element5 Spa and Salon in Saint John in 2017. Then, in 2019, she opened her second location in Moncton, New Brunswick, situated in the Mount Pleasant Plaza at 1579 Mountain Road.

Saint John, New Brunswick.

achieve higher levels of success in her industry!

“I love seeing the personal growth of people, predominantly young women, entering this industry and seeing their skills and confidence grow.”

MacDonald describes the services that they are best known for, “We are very well known for our Aveda pedicures. We are also known as a “one stop shop” for all skincare needs with our multiple facial offerings (Aveda and BioMedika), Laser skincare services, Botox/Filler clinics, as well as a full retail boutique offering Aveda & BioMedika skincare products. Our clients also enjoy that we have a liquor license at both locations, so our clients can enjoy a mimosa or a glass of wine with their services.”

The Element5 Spa and Salon staff at both locations make customer service their top priority. “We strive to offer a First-Class experience without being pretentious. That is our goal everyday with every guest. Our Guest Service Team is well trained to consult with our guests to book them in for the services that best suit their needs and our Retail Advisors are always available

to assist with the best home care product recommendations to extend the benefits of the services they have enjoyed with us!” she points out.

“Our team culture is critically important to us; in fact, when it comes to recruiting, we value a “fit” for our culture as the highest criteria.” MacDonald highlights.

To book an appointment with one of Element5 Spa and Salon staff visit https://www.element5spa.ca/

in Saint John call (506) 642-7725 email SJ@ELEMENT5SPA.CA

855-1776

SAINT JOHN MONCTON