Reverse sun damage ERASE THE EFFECTS OF SUN DAMAGE WITH an intense pulsed light (IPL) session. In this treatment, short blasts of high-intensity light are used to penetrate the skin’s surface and damage melanin, the pigment that causes brown age spots. The skin then repairs itself to eliminate the spots and create a more even skin tone. IPL treatments aren’t new, but the techniques used for them have been improved. Patients can now isolate and remove specific spots as needed. Davina Arbour, director of operations for ClarityMD recommends undergoing a complimentary skin consultation before treatment. “We take pictures with our Visia machine to analyze the skin in order to recommend the best treatment plan,” she says. Results can be seen with one treatment, although those with extensive sun damage may require as many as three sessions. It’s best to perform IPL during fall and winter months, and the treatments are safe for most skin types (not recommended for Hispanics and African Americans). Cost for treatment: At ClarityMD, treatments range from $150 to $350, depending on the body area. Call (317) 571-8900 to set up a free consultation, or visit claritymd.com for details.
Wipe out wrinkles THERE ARE MANY NEW TYPES OF FACIAL fillers on the market; many experts favor Juvederm Voluma XC. This is the first and only FDA-approved hyaluronic acid and lidocaine injectable, proven to correct age-related volume loss in the cheek area. In November 2013, Dr. Mark Hamilton of Hamilton Facial Plastic Surgery became the first plastic surgeon in Indianapolis to be trained on administering Voluma. “Voluma really is a game changer in how we treat mid-face aging,” says Dr. Hamilton. “This is a product that we can take off the shelf, inject in the office and provide instant lift and fullness that lasts up to and beyond two years.” Injections are minimally invasive and take only about 15 to 20 minutes. Results are immediate. Cost for treatment: Hamilton FPS charges $950 per syringe, and recommends patients come in for an evaluation to determine how many syringes will be needed. Call (317) 859-3810 for a consultation, or visit hamiltonfps.com to learn more about Voluma XC.
Tone and firm abdominal muscles LOSE INCHES OFF YOUR WAIST IN ONE SESSION with the TORC abdominal treatment. Just 30 minutes on this electronic muscle-stimulating device is equivalent to a six-hour gym workout, says Melissa La Fleur of 7e Fit Spa. According to La Fleur, the electronic impulses stimulate adenosine triphosphate (ATP), a nucleotide that releases energy and is a key component of metabolism. In addition, the stimulation increases the production of collagen and elastin, aiding in the elasticity and smoothness of the skin. La Fleur believes the TORC is more efficient and effective than a gym workout. “When working out, your body has to conserve energy and therefore, you only use 10 percent of your potential energy,” she says. “But when you are relaxed [as when using the TORC], your muscles can use 30 percent of their potential energy.” La Fleur says patients can lose three or more inches in just one session. But like a gym workout, one session won’t produce lasting results. “We recommend a series of six treatments,” says La Fleur. The TORC is wonderful for the abs, but can also be used on other areas, such as the thighs and buttocks. The device is versatile, helping patients lose (or gain) inches as desired, and helps to lift the muscles. Cost for treatment: 7e Fit Spa charges $89 for a single treatment, but offers packages at a discount and specials for spa members. Call (317) 776-8995 or visit 7efitspa.com for details about the TORC.
Erase spider veins WHILE SCLEROTHERAPY HAS LONG BEEN THE customary treatment for varicose veins, smaller spider veins can be more difficult to eliminate. Patients can expect vastly improved results as new laser technologies are used in conjunction with sclerotherapy. Surface laser treatments take only minutes with minimal discomfort. As in sclerotherapy, the treatments causes the vein walls to seal down and be reabsorbed into the body, ultimately leading to the disappearance of unsightly veins. Indiana Vein Specialists offer the latest generation of such laser technologies. “By adding the newest surface laser technology, this is an excellent option for patients who have faced limitations with traditional sclerotherapy treatment,” says Dr. Jeff Schoonover. While varicose and spider veins tend to be chronic, diagnostic ultrasound technology can be used to find and treat new vein issues. Dr. Schoonover suggests annual follow up to monitor and evaluate vein disease. Cost for treatment: Prices vary depending on the number and severity of the veins being treated. Visit indyveins.com or call (317) 661-4416 for information. m
Cosmetic enhancements by the numbers: 8 14.6 million: the number of cosmetic plastic surgery procedures performed in 2012. 8 90: the percent of cosmetic procedures performed on women (versus men). 8 1827: the year Dr. John Peter Mettauer performed the first plastic surgery. 8 252: the percentage increase in cosmetic procedures for women since 1997. 8 2008: the year Big Tent Books published a children’s picture book explaining why mommy is getting a flatter tummy. 8 Who Knew? War was the impetus for many breakthroughs in facial reconstructive surgery in an effort to repair the tissues and organs of wounded soldiers.
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