Finesse Cosmetic Surgery Blog

Who Is a Good Candidate for VelaShape?

Cellulite and excessive fat on some areas of the body are extremely common concerns for many people. If this is something you’re struggling with, you may be wondering what you can do. At Finesse Cosmetic Surgery in Waltham, MA, our VelaShape treatments can help you feel more confident in your skin.

Who Is a Good Candidate for VelaShape?

It’s normal to have some parts of the body that make us self-conscious. You may have some cellulite or possibly some areas on your body that you wish were a bit tighter and smoother. If this sounds like your situation, you may want to consider getting VelaShape.

This thermal treatment is best for people who have an overall healthy lifestyle, are at a stable and healthy weight, are not currently experiencing any skin conditions, and would like to reduce the appearance of cellulite.

What Is Cellulite?

Most people have cellulite somewhere on their bodies. It is a completely harmless skin condition that causes the skin to appear slightly lumpy or dimpled. You’ll most commonly find it on areas of the body like the thighs, buttocks, hips, and abdomen.

This dimpling is caused by fat cells underneath your skin. Many people try to reduce the appearance of cellulite on their own through dieting and exercise along with other healthy lifestyle changes. Most people see varying degrees of success doing this. If you are making these changes and still seeing cellulite that makes you unhappy with your appearance, it may be time to try VelaShape.

What Is VelaShape?

This is a non-invasive FDA-approved body contouring treatment that is used to firm up the skin and reduce the appearance of issues like cellulite. It can also be used for circumferential reduction of the thighs and abdomen to help you look leaner.

When this treatment is applied to your desired areas, four different modalities are used to help you get your skin back to the appearance that you like. This is unlike most other treatments which will usually only use one modality, making this treatment incredibly effective.

How Does It Work?

An applicator is used to apply the treatment to the desired parts of your body. During treatment, a combination of infrared light, bipolar radiofrequency energy, massaging, and gentle suction is applied to your skin to get you the results you want.

The infrared light and radiofrequency energy heat your skin, encouraging it to tighten and firm up by shrinking the fat cells under your skin. The heat will also encourage your body’s production of collagen and elastin, proteins that give your skin its structure. The suction pulls your skin closer to your body while the massaging relaxes the stiff fibrous bands that cause the dimpled appearance of cellulite.

What Will Getting Treatment Be Like?

How to Prepare

Before you get your treatment, there are a few things you should know. Before your appointment, we’ll hold a consultation with you to discuss what your specific goals are and ensure that this is the right treatment for you. We’ll also provide you with instructions on how you should get ready for your treatment.

There is very little that you’ll need to do to prepare, so don’t worry about a long to-do list. All you’ll need to do is stop taking medications that could thin your blood and encourage bruising around two weeks before your treatment.

Your Treatment

This non-invasive treatment is fast, easy, and pain-free. There is no anesthetic required. You’ll lie down on a table while we use a handheld device to apply the treatment to your desired areas. Throughout the treatment, you will feel a massaging sensation as well as heat.

If the treatment gets too hot to the point where it’s uncomfortable, let us know. You should not be feeling any pain or discomfort. After your treatment, you may feel like you’ve had a deep-tissue massage. Your treatment should take anywhere from 20 to 45 minutes, and you can leave the clinic as soon as it’s done.

Recovery

Because this treatment is non-invasive, you can return to your regular life as soon as you leave the clinic. There is no downtime required. Your skin may be slightly red where you’ve received the treatment which is normal and will go away on its own usually after a few hours.

Your skin will be more sensitive during this time, so you’ll need to be mindful about avoiding direct sunlight. Make sure you apply sunscreen when you do go outside. Your sunscreen should have at least 30 SPF.

When Will I See Results?

The results from your treatment may not be immediate, but you can trust that they will be effective. You should start to see the results you’ve been looking for after about three sessions. However, most patients need around four to six sessions total before they see the full results of their treatment.

The total number of sessions that you’ll need will largely depend on how your skin reacts to the treatment as well as how severe your cellulite is.

How Far Apart Will the Sessions Be?

For treatment to be effective, you need to give your body the time it needs to turn over the treated cells and produce more collagen and elastin. For best results, you should space your treatments about a week apart.

When you visit our clinic, we’ll be able to consider your skin type and give you a better idea of how many sessions you may actually need.

Are Results Permanent?

Over time, the results that you get from your treatment are going to fade. This is natural and due to factors like aging, fluctuations in your hormones, and genetics. For this reason, we may recommend that you get maintenance treatments after your initial appointments.

These maintenance treatments can be spaced much further apart than your initial treatments. Depending on your skin, we may suggest that you come back for treatment about two to four times a year to help you maintain your results.

What Are the Benefits?

It’s Non-Invasive

If you have unwanted fat on your body or you don’t like the way cellulite is making you look, there are lots of options out there. Some of the most effective are surgical procedures. However, these procedures can be highly invasive, and you may not be comfortable with them.

This is a fantastic alternative to more invasive treatments. Recovery will be fast and easy, and there’s no downtime that you need to worry about. It’s also pain-free, which is a huge benefit.

It’s Safe

Because it’s non-invasive, this treatment is safe for almost anyone to get. It’s approved by the FDA for the treatment of cellulite and fat reduction, and you don’t need to worry about side effects associated with treatment options like surgery.

There is also no anesthetic required. If you are looking for an effective way to reduce the appearance of cellulite but you have been sensitive to anesthetics in the past, this treatment could be the perfect option for you.

Treatment Is Fast

You have a busy life with important things to do. So it makes sense that you’d want to avoid any treatments that could take a long time. You’ll be able to do exactly that when you visit our clinic for this treatment.

As we mentioned, most treatments will take somewhere between 20 to 45 minutes to complete. The exact amount of time depends on the size of the area being treated and whether you’re targeting more than one area of your body. As soon as treatment is done, you can leave.

You’ll Feel More Confident

Cellulite and excessive fat on the body are common, and almost everyone has at least one of these issues somewhere on their body. But just because it’s common, that doesn’t mean that it doesn’t affect you negatively.

If you’re not happy with the way your cellulite makes you look and feel, then we are here for you. As soon as your results start appearing, you’ll feel much better wearing the clothes that you’ve always wished you could and doing the activities you’ve been avoiding because people may notice your cellulite.

Book an Appointment Today

Does VelaShape sound like it could be the perfect solution for your skin concerns? We’re ready to help you. You can trust that you’re getting safe treatment from a knowledgeable and caring team when you visit us. To learn more, get in touch with us at Finesse Cosmetic Surgery in Waltham, MA.

Who Is a Good Candidate for VelaShape?

What Is Cellulite?

What Is VelaShape?

How Does It Work?

What Will Getting Treatment Be Like?

How to Prepare

Your Treatment

Recovery

When Will I See Results?

How Far Apart Will the Sessions Be?

Are Results Permanent?

What Are the Benefits?

It’s Non-Invasive

It’s Safe

Treatment Is Fast

You’ll Feel More Confident

Book an Appointment Today

How Much Fat Can You Lose With CoolSculpting?

After spending countless hours exercising and calculating calories to reduce intake, it can be pretty frustrating to not be able to reach your target weight or body goals. Fortunately, with treatments such as CoolSculpting at Finesse Cosmetic Laser and Lipo in Waltham, MA, you can easily get rid of those last few unwanted pounds of fat.

How Much Fat Can You Lose With CoolSculpting?

The biggest benefit of CoolSculpting is that you can reduce unwanted fat on targeted areas of the body by 25%. With consecutive treatments, you can target pockets of stubborn fat to produce even greater results. Being able to reduce unwanted fat by 25% in multiple areas of your body can produce significant results.

How Many Pounds Does That Equal?

When you get down to the math of it, reducing 25% of fat on an area of your body where you have at least 10 pounds of unwanted fat can mean getting rid of a few pounds. If you treat multiple areas of the body, you can freeze several pounds of body fat away. Many people can lose 10 or more pounds when using this fat reduction treatment on multiple areas of the body.

How Many Clothing Sizes Does That Equal?

Sometimes, measuring your body weight isn’t the best way to assess your fat reduction or fitness. If you are exercising to build muscle, muscle mass may be replacing body fat on your body, which can sometimes make it seem like you’re gaining weight even if you’re not. For this reason, many nutrition experts and exercise coaches recommend measuring your fitness based on clothing sizes instead of trusting the scale.

When you use a body contouring treatment such as CoolSculpting, you can usually reduce your clothing size by one to two pant sizes, or sometimes more depending on which areas of your body you are treating. For example, many people focus on the waist, hips, and thighs, so greatly reducing body fat in this area can slim down your silhouette significantly.

What Is Treatment Like?

Usually, your treatment sessions will take about an hour. This treatment will use several applicators to freeze fat away. For areas of your body that have pinchable fat, such as the stomach, applicators will literally pinch fat in the treatment area to eliminate a greater number of fat cells.

Although this fat reduction treatment will involve freezing fat cells away, the treatment itself is very comfortable. Your skin will not be at risk with this treatment, since fat cells are more sensitive to cold temperatures than skin cells.

Preparation

Before any of your treatment sessions, you will need to avoid medications and supplements such as aspirin, fish oil, and vitamin E for at least three days. You should also avoid direct contact with the sun or tanning beds since this can potentially cause skin irritation. If you are shaving any area you plan to treat, it’s best to shave at least 48 hours in advance.

Aftercare

After your treatment, the best thing you can do is take it easy for 24 to 48 hours. While you can go back to work, you will want to avoid exercising and other strenuous activities. Additionally, you may want to avoid steam and hot water that can undermine your desired results.

Results

It will usually take several weeks for you to notice your results. Although this aesthetic treatment will immediately kill off fat cells in the first 12 to 24 hours, it will take several days for your body to start getting rid of these destroyed fat cells. The elimination process may take one to three months before you will see significant results. Your final results will develop about three months after your last treatment appointment.

Other FAQs

How Many Treatments Will You Need?

Most people will need a series of one to three treatments to achieve optimal results with this fat reduction technique. The number of treatments required to achieve your desired results will depend on the number of areas you want to treat and your percentage of body fat. People who have significant body fat will usually require at least three treatments, particularly if they are also treating other large areas of the body.

How Long Will Results Last?

Your results are designed to be long-lasting. The reason for this is that fat cells are not like other cells in the body. Unlike skin cells, blood cells, and hair cells, fat cells are not capable of regeneration.

That said, everybody is born with a predetermined number of fat cells that can grow and shrink to store more fat for energy based on your diet, activity level, and metabolism. This means that when fat cells are destroyed by freezing technology, these fat cells cannot return. Ultimately, this means that if you adopt the right lifestyle practices, you can maintain your goal appearance for a lifetime.

Can You Enhance Your Results?

If you want to get the most out of each of your treatments, you may want to consider things you can do after your appointment to enhance your results. Taking these steps during recovery can help your results develop more quickly. Some things you can do include:

Massage Treatment Area

Lightly massaging the treatment area 12 to 24 hours after the treatment can do a world of good. Although your aesthetic expert may massage your skin after the CoolSculpting session is complete, at-home manual massage can further improve your results so long as you do not generate too much heat on your skin. This is because massaging the treatment area can distribute the cold into deeper fat cells.

Drink Water

Drinking plenty of water after your treatment is key. This is because water can help flush toxins out of your system, including fat cells that are destroyed with this body contouring treatment. Your results will develop more quickly if you can drink at least half of your body weight in ounces of water each day. For a person who weighs 150 pounds, this means drinking at least 75 oz of water a day.

Compression Garments

You may also want to wear compression garments on any area that is treated, particularly the waist and stomach. Compression garments can help your body heal into your desired body shape. With fat reduction treatments, compression garments can ensure that skin is tight and that fat reduction produces a smooth, natural-looking result.

How Can You Maintain Results?

Although fat cells cannot regenerate, any fat cells that remain after you achieve your desired results may be able to respond to lifestyle habits. Because fat cells can expand to store more fat for energy, it’s important to lead a healthy lifestyle so that you can avoid weight gain in the future. Some things you can do to maintain your results include:

Maintain Goal Body Weight

Your goal body weight can be determined by several measurements, including BMI and waist-to-hip ratio. You should ask your doctor what a healthy body weight is for your age, height, and gender. When you are maintaining a healthy body weight, you should aim to be within five to 10 pounds of this weight at all times.

For women, rest assured that it’s normal for your body weight to fluctuate throughout the month. This is because your body weight reflects your natural response to hormones and water retention as you go through all stages of the menstrual cycle. Usually, you will lose any water weight a few days after your menstrual cycle ends.

Exercise Regularly

Regular exercise is also a key to maintaining a healthy body weight. You should aim to have a well-rounded exercise routine, which includes resistance training and cardiovascular activity. If you’re still losing weight, alternating between high-intensity and moderate-intensity exercise can help you burn fat more quickly.

Eat a Healthy Diet

Having a healthy, balanced diet is also essential. Your diet should consist primarily of fiber, protein, and dairy, as these are the building blocks for the proteins and amino acids your body relies on to maintain your health. Limiting sugar, salt, and refined consumption is ultimately best for your health.

Freeze Away Unwanted Fat

If you’re ready to get the body of your dreams and you’re tired of struggling at the gym, it may be time to use body contouring treatments such as CoolSculpting to reach your goals. Take advantage of the specials at Finesse Cosmetic Laser and Lipo in Waltham, MA when you schedule your initial appointment.

How Long Does Laser Hair Removal Take?

If you’ve gotten tired of putting yourself through the constant cycle of waxing and shaving, you’re not alone. Laser hair removal can offer a lasting solution that leaves you with smooth, clear skin. It’s common to have questions about this process, and that’s why our team at Finesse Cosmetic Surgery in Waltham, MA, is here to provide some information about our hair removal services.

How Long Does Laser Hair Removal Take?

Appointment Times Vary

If you’re looking to treat a small area like the upper lip or chin, laser hair removal can get the job done in as little as five minutes. Larger sections of the body will take more time, so if you want to have your legs or back treated, you can expect each session to last for around 45 minutes.

We’d be happy to give you an appointment time estimate once we know the area we’re going to treat for you. Many patients take the opportunity to unwind and enjoy some “me time” during their appointment. You could consider bringing your favorite book along, or popping in your earbuds and listening to a podcast and some music.

No Downtime

You don’t have to worry about taking extra time to recover after this treatment. You’ll be able to carry on with the rest of your day once your treatment is complete. Life is busy for everyone. Many patients appreciate being able to come in for a brief appointment without worrying about losing their whole day. It can also make scheduling appointments much less stressful.

Rapid Results

How quickly you’ll see results can vary slightly per patient, but most people can expect to see their treated hair beginning to fall out within a week or two of their first treatment.

Your Series

Hair grows in cycles, and the human body has more hair follicles than you may think. To give you thorough, lasting results, we recommend a treatment series. Each treatment will be spaced between four to eight weeks apart, depending on your hair growth cycle and availability.

Many patients find that between five to nine sessions are sufficient to give them the results they’re looking for. That’s not a bad trade-off for getting to enjoy permanent improvements!

What Benefits Can I Expect?

Expect Safety

This is often considered a “lunchtime” treatment due to its safety and ease. Many areas only take about 30 minutes to treat. If desired, a patient could even return to work after their treatment. The way the laser works is by targeting your hair follicles, and it’s able to do that without damaging the epidermis.

It’s considered a very safe treatment, but we understand the importance of knowing as much as possible about your treatment before you receive it. That’s why we will go over what you can expect from the process in person with you. We are also happy to talk you through any concerns you have, since we want you to feel comfortable and confident about your options.

Save Time

Shaving can take a lot of time out of each day. When you’re busy and exhausted, you may be faced with the choice of either skipping your shave and dealing with stubble or having to shave no matter how tired you are. Even waxing, while the results last longer than shaving, either requires careful preparation at home or scheduling regular appointments.

Laser removal gives patients the freedom of knowing that no matter how crazy and busy life gets, their unwanted hair is already taken care of. It’s important to remember that while you may have some occasional hair growth after treatment, the hair should be much thinner and very slow growing. So even if you have to shave now and then, it should be a very quick, easy, and infrequent process.

No Ingrown Hairs

If you’re lucky, shaving can give you good results for a day or two before stubble comes back. However, many people suffer from regular ingrown hairs or other irritations. The last thing you want after shaving is to deal with red bumps instead of hair.

With laser removal, you can get rid of your hair without having to worry about ingrown hairs being left behind. That’s because this treatment gets rid of hair at the roots. In fact, laser removal can be used to help you treat ingrown hairs if you’re already dealing with them.

Be Spontaneous

If you’re invited to a last-minute beach trip or social gathering, having your hair treated can give you more freedom to get up and go rather than having to set time aside to shave beforehand. It can already be hard to find time to spend with friends and relax. Why not free up a bit of time and effort so you can be ready to go when the opportunities come along?

FAQ About Laser Hair Removal

1. How Does This Work?

The most important thing will be making sure this treatment is a good fit for you. Once you’re done with your consultation, if we believe this treatment is going to be a good fit, we can help you set up your treatment plan. To give you the best possible results, we can customize your series based on your hair type, your cosmetic goals, and the area you’re treating.

Our lasers will deliver energy to your hair follicles. The follicles will absorb this energy, which will damage their ability to produce hair. Repeated treatments will help thoroughly disable the follicles and make sure we cover the entire area as well as possible.

2. Can I Wax Beforehand?

While you can shave before your treatment, you shouldn’t wax, tweeze, or bleach beforehand. Anything that pulls out or removes the root of your hair should be avoided for at least two weeks before your laser treatment since the lasers will need to treat the roots of your hair in order to be effective.

3. Why Should I Trust Your Team?

We know how difficult it can be to find the right laser removal method. In order to help as many patients as possible, we offer cutting-edge laser technology that is able to work for a wide range of skin and hair types.

We’re proud to offer laser treatments that are considered safe, effective, and have a wide range at the same time. It’s important to find the right fit for each patient, as using the wrong laser can be ineffective or even harmful. We have the skill and experience to team up with you and pick the right laser for your needs.

4. What Can I Have Treated?

Arms

Our lasers are very versatile; if there’s an area you’d like to treat and it isn’t listed here, feel free to ask us about it.

To start, the arms and underarms are popular treatment areas, as many people prefer not to have hair under their arms. Treating this area could even help reduce body odor. The arms themselves can also be treated.

Legs

Legs can be a pain to shave, especially when you’re pressed for time. Trying to shave in a hurry can lead to accidental cuts or whole patches of missed hair. Waxing in a rush can be equally catastrophic, since, if you’re not careful, you could end up burning your skin.

Treating the legs can give you a much-deserved break. Many patients have been shaving their legs every day for many years and are just tired of it. After laser removal, you won’t have to constantly take time out of your day to shave your legs.

Bikini Line

Many patients find that the bikini area is especially sensitive. Waxing may be too painful, and shaving may leave the skin of this area looking and feeling irritated. Laser removal can be a helpful way to keep this area clear and ready for the beach.

Back or Chest

Laser hair removal can be a helpful tool for patients of any gender since anyone can have unwanted hair. Unwanted back and chest hair can be particularly challenging to remove on your own.

Besides laser removal, having it waxed regularly may be the only reasonable way to keep these areas clear. That cost can start adding up over time, and the discomfort is off-putting for many patients. This treatment can help thin out your back and chest hair, so you don’t have to be constantly setting up appointments to have it waxed off.

Want More Laser Hair Removal Information?

We’d be happy to talk through your skin goals and help you set up the right treatment plan. A consultation is the best way to achieve this. Meeting in person will help us evaluate your skin, and give you time to ask us any remaining questions you have. Contact us at Finesse Cosmetic Surgery in Waltham, MA, to set up your appointment today.

How Long Does Rhinoplasty Last?

Your nose is one of the first features that people notice about you. If it is crooked or disproportionately large, you may feel self-conscious. At Finesse Cosmetic Laser and Lipo in Waltham, MA, we strongly believe everyone deserves to feel self-confident. That’s why we proudly offer rhinoplasty, one of the most popular cosmetic procedures in the world.

Known colloquially as a nose job, this procedure can be used to treat a number of cosmetic concerns, including asymmetry, bumps on the bridge of the nose, and upturned, large, or wide nostrils. Furthermore, this procedure can be used to correct a deviated septum and improve breathing. To help you determine whether this popular, effective procedure is right for you, today, we’re taking a closer look at how long the results last and how long it takes.

How Long Does Rhinoplasty Last?

Rhinoplasty results are considered permanent. However, if you had a nose job in the past and are displeased with the results, they can be corrected with a follow-up procedure performed by a better surgeon. Furthermore, you should understand that exceptional circumstances may occur, and you may need a touch-up procedure.

For example, some people get a nose job to correct the functionality of the nose; treating a deviated septum to improve breathing. If you get a nose job, and then your nose is broken after the procedure, you may need another nose job. Finally, you should understand that you may see a slight change in the appearance of your nose due to the aging process causing mild skin sagging or folds around your nose.

How Long Will My Procedure Take?

Many factors affect how long this procedure takes for each individual, but you can generally expect your operation to take between 1.5 and three hours. If you have severe concerns, especially if you are worried about both structural and cosmetic concerns, you will probably need an open nose job. Your operation may take around three hours.

On the other hand, if your concerns are mild or moderate, you may only need a closed rhinoplasty that takes roughly 90 minutes. We will give you a better idea of how long your procedure will take once we have discussed your goals and evaluated the severity of your concerns.

How Long Will My Recovery Take?

Full rhinoplasty recovery can take up to 13 months, especially if the cartilage is harvested from another region of your body and used to fix depressions in the bridge of your nose. However, most of your recovery will be complete in just six to eight weeks, and you won’t even need to take that much time off from work. Depending on the scope of your procedure and your post-op decisions, you may need to take a week or two off from work.

During your initial consultation, we will give you a complete list of recovery rules. If there are any rules you’re not sure you can follow, you need to let us know as soon as possible. Every rule is important for the efficiency of your recovery process. Other rules, such as not wearing glasses, are vital for your results, too.

Why Can’t I Wear Glasses During My Recovery?

You should not wear glasses early in your recovery because if too much pressure is placed on the bridge of your nose, your final results can be affected negatively. It may be okay to wear glasses for the first seven days of your recovery because a protective splint will be placed on top of your nose. However, after that week, you should do your best to not wear glasses. If you can’t wear contacts, wear your glasses as little as possible and try to get a lighter frame.

Also, it is vital that you sleep on your back with your head elevated during your recovery. It is important to sleep on your back for the same reason that it is vital to wear your glasses as little as possible; if you sleep on your stomach or side, too much pressure may be exerted on your nose, and your results can be affected. To heal as quickly as possible, spend as much time as you can in the deepest phase of the sleep cycle.

What Else Can I Do To Speed Up My Recovery?

Besides spending as much time as you can in the deepest phase of the sleep cycle, you can speed up your recovery by walking regularly. The reason it is so important to walk regularly is that walking supports your cardiovascular system. The stronger your circulatory system is, the more efficiently growth factors, nutrients, and oxygen can be delivered to your skin. The delivery of these nutrients and growth factors will help your skin heal itself from the incisions.

Another thing you can do to speed up your recovery is to eat nutritiously and stay hydrated throughout the process. Besides growth factors, oxygen, and nutrients, your skin needs plenty of water to be able to heal itself. Make sure you drink enough water and other hydrating fluids that your urine is clear. If you struggle to drink enough throughout the day, do your best to eat more foods with a high water content.

What Are Some Other Post-Op Restrictions I Should Be Aware of?

Another important restriction you should keep in mind is that you will not be able to blow your nose or use medicated nasal sprays early in your recovery. If you feel like your nasal passages are itchy, you will need to wait out the feeling or use a saline nasal spray to abate it. Also, it is important that you avoid excessive sweating. To reiterate, vigorous exercise must be avoided for six to eight weeks post-op. You should also mitigate the risk of sweating by:

Taking tepid showers or baths
Avoiding dry saunas
Avoiding steam rooms

Furthermore, you should be aware that it is important to not smoke or drink alcohol for at least a couple of weeks post-op. These substances affect your blood pressure and will slow the recovery process. If you can’t imagine going several weeks without smoking, ask your PCP for a referral to a specialist that can help you quit.

Am I a Good Candidate for This Procedure?

To find out whether you are a good candidate for a nose job, you need to come in for an initial consultation. If you are concerned about the size, shape, or structure of your nose, there is a good chance you will qualify. However, the only way to find out for sure whether this procedure will be safe and effective for you is to attend an initial evaluation.

If you’re in pretty good health, this procedure will probably be safe for you. However, if you have certain heart or lung conditions, you may not be a good fit for this operation. This is particularly true if you need cartilage harvested from your ear or rib to augment your nose. The greater the scope of your procedure, the more ideal it is to receive general anesthesia, but it is vital that your heart and lungs are healthy to get general anesthesia safely.

How Will I Need To Prepare for My Procedure?

It is extremely important that your blood pressure isn’t too high when you come in for your procedure. Therefore, you should avoid consuming alcohol and tobacco products before your operation. Also, it is important that you do not consume so much caffeine or sodium that your blood pressure is too high when you come in for your nose job.

Furthermore, it is very important that you do not take any pharmaceuticals that will or may thin your blood. For example, you will not be able to take NSAIDs, fish oil supplements, or vitamin E supplements. Also, you need to make sure that you have a ride home from your operation. Regardless of whether you receive general anesthesia or a sedative that is separate from your anesthesia, you won’t be able to drive home.

Schedule Your Evaluation Today

You can feel pretty confident that your rhinoplasty results will last a lifetime. However, the results can be altered by trauma. Also, you should know that while this procedure will permanently change the structure of your nose, your nose may change in appearance a bit due to the natural aging process. Contact us today at Finesse Cosmetic Laser and Lipo in Waltham, MA to schedule your initial consultation if you think this procedure would benefit you.

What Are the Benefits of Microneedling?

The skin is our largest and most visible organ, so it’s no wonder that we often experience problems with it. In our youth, we might suffer from acne or chickenpox scars, or enlarged pores, and as we grow older, wrinkling and sagging skin become more of a problem. At Finesse Cosmetic Surgery in Waltham, MA, we can help you get rid of these issues with collagen induction therapy, also called microneedling.

This process involves pricking your skin with microscopic needles and therefore stimulating the body’s healing response. It is a minimally invasive treatment that doesn’t require surgery or lengthy downtime. What’s more, there is little risk involved, so the vast majority of patients who come to the clinic are eligible. Let’s have a closer look at the benefits of the innovative treatment.

What Are the Benefits of Microneedling?

Collagen induction therapy is one of the most exciting recent developments in medicine. This treatment stimulates the body’s own healing response, so it doesn’t require the use of chemicals. A pen-like device that contains tiny needles is applied to the treatment area, where it creates microscopic injuries in the skin. Although there isn’t any real damage, the body perceives a problem and therefore sends healing agents called platelets to the site.

Over time, the platelets release growth factors, which encourage your body to break down damaged tissue and produce new cells. As a result, you can expect your scars and wrinkles to disappear, your skin to become smoother, and your pores to shrink. In some cases, collagen induction therapy has even been used successfully on patients suffering from a condition called rosacea.

Reduces the Negative Signs of Aging

Because our body stops producing large quantities of the structural proteins collagen and elastin, we begin to experience the negative effects of aging. These might include lax skin, wrinkles and fine lines, and an uneven skin texture. While the aging process is normal, it can be distressing and cause low self-confidence. If you’re worried about the deterioration of your facial features, you shouldn’t hesitate to speak to the providers at your local clinic.

They can examine your face to determine which areas should be treated with microscopic needles. Everyone’s facial features are unique, but patients often experience the most significant signs of aging around their mouth and nose and on their forehead. Because collagen induction therapy is so gentle, it can even be used on the delicate area on the outside of your eyes, where crow’s feet often appear.

Gets Rid of Acne and Chickenpox Scars

If you suffered from severe acne as a teenager, you’re not alone. Experts estimate that 75-95% of people experience some level of facial acne, although the condition is much more severe in some than others. Over time, most people can shake off the irritating condition, although it persists to middle age in around 3% of men and 12% of women. Unfortunately, acne frequently leaves behind small, round scars that can’t be removed without medical intervention.

Patients who suffered from chickenpox and those who got injured in an accident sometimes experience the same problem. With collagen induction therapy, you can encourage your body to rebuild your skin from scratch. The best part about this kind of microneedling treatment is that it is permanent. Once your scars have been removed, you don’t have to return to the clinic to have more sessions.

Shrinks Your Pores

There are many reasons why people suffer from enlarged pores. Some simply produce too much sebum, which is the oily substance that protects the face, or their hair follicles are larger than other people’s. However, patients can also develop enlarged pores due to sun damage or the use of certain skincare products. Sometimes, pores become more sizable as people age.

Collagen induction therapy is a great solution for anyone who is worried about the appearance of their pores. For maximum effect, the treatment can be combined with other methods such as laser therapy.

Helps Your Body Absorb Topical Treatments

As we grow older, our body doesn’t hydrate and nourish the skin as much as it used to. Therefore, many of us begin using cosmetic products like creams and ointments. Unfortunately, these don’t always penetrate the skin very well, so a large portion of the active ingredient is lost.

During collagen induction therapy, the microscopic needles create tiny openings in the skin. Therefore, any topical substance placed on the face during or after the session has a much higher chance of penetrating to the deeper layers of the face. At the clinic, we can offer you various serums that enhance the effects of your collagen induction session.

Gets Rid of Stretch Marks

When most people think of stretch marks, they imagine women who have been pregnant. But pregnancy isn’t the only cause of this skin condition. In fact, 50-90% of women and countless men suffer from this issue. It can start as early as the teenage years, during which many people have rapid growth spurts that trigger stretch marks.

During adulthood, more people develop them as they become overweight or obese or they lift heavy weights that put stress on their tissues. If you’re self-conscious about your appearance because of your stretch marks, you shouldn’t hesitate to ask your provider about treatment options. Collagen induction therapy could be the perfect solution for you.

Reduces Rosacea

Rosacea is a skin condition that is more common in women but often more severe in men. People who suffer from it develop redness on their cheeks, nose, forehead, and chin. Sometimes, tiny broken blood vessels or red spots appear. Sufferers also experience a burning sensation when applying water or skincare products, dry skin, swelling, and thickened skin.

The condition may be more pronounced after exercise, eating spicy foods, or consuming caffeine and hot beverages, but some patients experience constant symptoms. While there is no known cure for this issue, collagen induction therapy can greatly reduce the redness and therefore allow patients to live a more normal life. What’s more, the overall appearance of the skin will be smoother, so the rosacea may be less noticeable than before.

Available to Almost Every Patient

Many cosmetic treatments sound great on paper, but they aren’t available to the majority of patients. For example, you must be in excellent physical health and willing to take several weeks off work if you want to participate in plastic surgery. Microneedling is very different because it is gentle and doesn’t require an operation, a general anesthetic, or the use of harsh chemicals.

Since the treatment relies on your own body’s healing response, it is a great option for almost anyone. You should book an appointment with a specialist even if you have a minor or moderate health concern. However, it’s important to note that people with an active infection at the treatment site will need to wait until they have healed fully.

Very Limited Side Effects

A collagen induction therapy session only takes 30-45 minutes, and most patients can go home and resume their regular activities almost straight away. They don’t suffer from side effects or pain like they would after an operation, which makes it much easier to schedule appointments. Since you won’t have to arrange your whole day around the session, you can book your appointment during a weekday and then go straight back to work.

Despite this, your provider will give you tips about how to maximize your results and prevent future damage. They will ask you to keep your treatment area away from direct sunlight for several days and to avoid strenuous exercise that could heat up the body too much. In some cases, they might suggest skincare products that can support the treatment.

Get Rid of Skin Conditions and the Signs of Aging Now

Skin conditions like wrinkles, sagging, acne scars, and enlarged pores are some of the most common cosmetic problems people face. But fortunately, there are easy and minimally invasive treatments available at your local clinic, which can help you get your glowing, healthy skin back. Microneedling is a great option that is suitable for a wide range of patients, no matter their skin concerns.

This treatment stimulates the body’s own healing response by creating microscopic injuries in the tissue. It works well on its own but can also enhance the effects of common topical treatments. Because there are very few side effects, most patients don’t need to rest after their treatment, and they can resume their regular activities almost instantly. Call Finesse Cosmetic Surgery in Waltham, MA to book your initial consultation now.

How Many Sessions of Ultherapy Do You Need?

Are you concerned about your appearance due to a significant amount of volume loss? Do you hate how visible your veins are on the backs of your hands due to severe skin thinning? Do you have hollow cheeks that make you look chronically ill or older than you feel? If so, you may be considered a good candidate for Ultherapy at Finesse Cosmetic Laser and Lipo in Waltham, MA.

Ultherapy is an FDA-approved anti-aging treatment that has been used for years to improve self-esteem. It is usually used to improve the appearance of the cheeks. However, it can also be used to treat other areas experiencing collagen loss. For instance, this treatment can be used to improve the appearance of the backs of the hands, the chest, and the upper face. Here’s what you need to know about achieving your ideal results.

How Many Sessions of Ultherapy Do You Need?

It is very rare for people to need more than one Ultherapy session to achieve their desired results. However, in those few cases, a second treatment session is required four to six weeks after the first session is complete. It is important that several weeks pass between treatment sessions because it can be between four and six weeks before the initial results become apparent.

It can take months for the final results to become apparent. However, once we see how your initial results are developing, we can determine whether a follow-up session is necessary. Keep in mind, there are both preparation and aftercare guidelines you will need to adhere to. If you have severe collagen loss, be ready to make sunscreen your new best friend.

How Long Will the Results of My Treatment Last?

Individual results vary based on numerous factors, including lifestyle choices, skin health, overall health, and concern severity. However, four-fifths of people who get this treatment report that they are still satisfied with their results after 24 months. If you’re one of the 80% of people who remain satisfied with their results 24 months after their development, you may get another three years out of your results.

It is not unheard of for people to not need a follow-up session for 5.5 years after their first session. This is because it can take up to six months for the treatment to take full effect. To see your final results as quickly as possible, you will need to make sure that your skin has everything it needs to produce collagen. For instance, you need to ensure that you are hydrated and nourished adequately.

Am I a Good Candidate for This Treatment?

The only way to know for sure whether you are a good candidate for ultrasound-based treatment is to come in for an initial evaluation. This treatment is incredibly safe, in part, because it is non-invasive. We don’t have to make any incisions to manually manipulate your facial tissues. It is all done with the special ultrasound-based device and gel. The radio waves emitted by the device penetrate your outer skin layers, warming the foundational layer.

Nevertheless, despite its safety, your health history and current health need to be reviewed before a determination can be made regarding your candidacy. If you’re sick, or you’ve been sick recently, you will be disqualified from this treatment temporarily.

Who Isn’t a Good Candidate for This Treatment?

You will be considered a poor Ultherapy candidate if your cosmetic concerns are caused by hyperactive muscles rather than collagen loss. There are a number of benefits of this treatment, but they are all derived from boosting collagen production in the treatment areas. If your cosmetic concerns cannot be corrected by collagen production increases, you will need alternative treatments to achieve your desired aesthetic.

You also will be considered a poor candidate for this treatment if your skin is irritated at the time of your appointment. If you show up to your appointment with irritated skin, your session will have to be rescheduled. For this reason, it is very important to wear sunscreen, limit time spent outdoors during the day, and mitigate the risk of acne outbreaks or viral infections prior to your session.

What Other Preparation Steps Will I Need To Adhere to?

In addition to ensuring your skin is not irritated at the time of your appointment, it is very important that you ensure you are hydrated at the time of your treatment session. The more hydrated you are at the time of your appointment, the more effective your session will be. Also, the more hydrated you are after your treatment session, the faster your final results will become apparent.

Another crucial preparation step is refraining from consuming tobacco products. It is important to avoid consuming tobacco products because they elevate your blood pressure. This impedes circulation, meaning that your treatment won’t be as effective. Other preparation steps you should take include eating nutritiously and coming in with clean skin. If you are wearing cosmetics, like lotion, they will be removed prior to treatment.

How Much Time Will I Need To Take Off From Work?

One of the most popular features of Ultherapy is that the ultrasound-based treatment does not require any downtime after treatment. As soon as your treatment session is complete, we will review your aftercare guidelines with you. Then, you are free to return to work. At most, you may need to request an hour off from work. This is because treatment sessions can take anywhere from 30 to 90 minutes to complete.

If your supervisor won’t let you take a long lunch one day after coming in early or before leaving late, then you will need to use a bit of PTO. However, you will not need to take the rest of your work day off to recover from your treatment. Nevertheless, you may need to take time off from work after your treatment if your job requires strenuous physical activity. This is prohibited during the early stages of your recovery.

What Other Post-Treatment Guidelines Must I Follow?

As a general rule of thumb, it is highly advisable to sleep on your back in the days following your treatment. We say this is a general rule, not a hard-and-fast rule, because your post-treatment sleeping requirements depend on what areas of your body were targeted for treatment. For example, if you get ultrasound-based therapy to tighten loose upper back skin, you should sleep on your stomach during your recovery.

This ensures that too much pressure is not applied to the treatment area. On the other hand, you will need to sleep on your back for several days if you target other areas for skin tightening and voluminization, like your abdomen, chest, or the tops of your thighs. Here are some other post-treatment guidelines you will need to follow.

Stay Hydrated

Staying hydrated is crucial for a rapid recovery, rapid results, and long-lasting results. Make sure that you are drinking enough that your urine is pale. Some people can accomplish optimal hydration by sipping on water, coffee, or tea throughout the day. However, if you notice that your urine is dark, you will need to make more of an effort to get hydrating fluids in.

Wash the Treatment Areas Gently

Another thing that sets ultrasound-based therapy apart from other anti-aging techniques is that it is safe to shower after the treatment is over. However, you should take care to shower in lukewarm water, rather than water that is very hot or cold. Also, make sure you use a gentle skin cleanser, applying it with your fingers in circular motions and patting the treatment areas dry gently.

The Best News
If your cosmetic concerns are mild or moderate in nature, you will only need one ultrasound-based therapy session. However, if your cosmetic concerns are severe in nature, you may need a second treatment session four to six weeks after your first session. The good news is that you can expect your ideal results to last for two to five years, regardless of how many sessions you need initially.

Schedule Your Initial Consultation Today
To find out for sure whether ultrasound-based therapy is right for you, drop us a line today at Finesse Cosmetic Laser and Lipo in Waltham, MA to schedule your initial Ultherapy consultation. Depending on your cosmetic goals, we may also recommend other cosmetic treatments to help you improve your self-confidence. Regardless of your concerns, we have a safe, effective solution for you and look forward to tailoring your unique treatment plan.

How Long Do Juvederm Results Last?

There are many reasons why patients opt for dermal fillers. While some would like to get rid of wrinkles and skin folds, others are interested in adding volume to their cheeks or lips. Here at Finesse Cosmetic Surgery in Waltham, MA, we offer several types of Juvederm injectables that can restore the youthful texture and plumpness in our patients’ faces.

Generally, dermal fillers don’t require any downtime, and they offer excellent results that last for many months at a time. But the frequency of treatment depends on several factors, including the type of formula used, your current skin texture, and your lifestyle habits. Today, we’ll discuss how long you can expect your results to last, how you can make sure your features stay fresh, and what to expect at your appointment.

How Long Can You Expect Juvederm Results To Last?

This brand doesn’t just offer one treatment. Instead, there are several gels that allow providers to customize results. Although every filler we offer at the clinic is of the highest quality, they don’t all last equally long. You can expect the results from a standard treatment to fade after around six to twelve months.

The popular lip treatment Volbella can also last for around one year, but if you choose Voluma, you might not need to come back to the clinic for two years. This gel, which is meant to restore volume to your cheeks, is thicker than the other options and makes use of cross-link technology. Therefore, its molecules break down much more slowly.

Standard Treatment

Ultra and Ultra Plus are the most established and well-known dermal fillers we use at the clinic. Time and again, they have provided amazing results for our clients. While Ultra is meant for people with fine to moderate lines and wrinkles, Ultra Plus is thicker and can therefore address more severe skin problems and produce more dramatic results.

When you come to the clinic for your assessment, we can let you know which option allows you to achieve your esthetic goals. Both Ultra and Ultra Plus tend to last for around six to twelve months, so you’ll need to see us for treatment once or twice a year. In the meantime, you can enjoy smooth and firm skin without having to worry about constant maintenance.

Volbella

In recent years, several new injectables have emerged and been approved by the FDA, allowing practitioners around the country to produce more tailored results. Volbella is a fine gel that has been created specifically to increase the volume of the lips and address the fine lines and wrinkles around the mouth. It is a great option for anyone who would like to concentrate on the lower half of the face.

Because this filler is newer, you can expect your results to last slightly longer. Most Volbella patients only come to see us once a year, especially if they keep their skin in good condition and stay out of direct sunlight.

Voluma

When discussing the aging process, most people mention wrinkles, skin folds, or sagging skin. But there is another issue that can make you appear years older than you are: a loss of volume in the cheeks. One of the most innovative Juvederm treatments is called Voluma, and it was made specifically to treat people who have developed hollow cheeks and would like to regain a plumper and more youthful appearance.

Because this gel’s purpose is to add structure to your face, it is much thicker than the other options. What’s more, Voluma uses innovative cross-linking technology, which makes it break down much slower than other fillers. Most people who opt for this treatment don’t require another appointment in the 18-24 months after their first session.

How To Augment Your Results

While the consistency of the gel we use affects your results, this isn’t the only factor. What you do in between your sessions also counts. In our experience, the patients who see the best results are those who maintain a healthy lifestyle. Most importantly, they stay out of direct sunlight to protect their face from damaging UV rays or, if that isn’t possible, they apply high-quality sunscreen.

Additionally, people who would like to prolong their results should always drink plenty of water and opt for a healthy diet that includes antioxidants, protein, and five or more pieces of fruit and vegetables per day. That way, they have a high chance of ingesting crucial vitamins and minerals that keep the body functioning well.

What To Expect at Your Appointment

While dermal fillers can produce excellent results, this isn’t always the case. If you choose a provider who isn’t qualified, you might not achieve the desired look. Here at the clinic, we only work with highly experienced practitioners who can customize your injectables to your needs. Before allowing you to take part in treatment, they will ask you to come for an initial consultation, so they can discuss your esthetic concerns and your medical history.

At that time, you should explain why you would like to have injections, what other treatments you have tried in the past, and what your goals are. Then, your provider can come up with a treatment plan that addresses your specific concerns. They will let you know whether you need just one appointment or whether you could benefit from several sessions.

Your Session

Prior to your session, you should follow all your provider’s advice. For instance, you might need to stop taking blood-thinning supplements and medications. To minimize the risk of infection, wash your face before arriving and avoid putting on makeup. At the start of your session, your provider will numb your face and mark the injection sites. Because the gel already contains lidocaine, you shouldn’t feel any pain during your appointment.

Depending on the type of treatment you’ve chosen, you might receive 30-50 individual injections, each strategically placed for maximum effect. Once your practitioner is done, they will allow you to leave the clinic and resume your regular activities.

Recovering from Treatment

Most people don’t need to rest after a Juvederm session, but if you’ve never had fillers before, you might want to avoid scheduling anything else after your appointment. That way, you can get used to the feeling of the gel under your skin. Within 24 hours, you can participate in almost all activities, but you should wait for several days before you do strenuous exercise, use a hot tub or sauna, or take a very hot shower.

Your provider might also ask you to avoid alcohol and caffeine for a day or two after treatment because it dries out your body. Since the active ingredient in the injectable is meant to hydrate your skin, the consumption of these substances could counteract the beneficial effects of your session.

Should I Get Dermal Fillers?

Now you know more about dermal fillers, it’s time to decide whether this injectable is right for you. If you are worried about fine lines, wrinkles, skin folds, or a loss of volume in your face, you could benefit from injectables. Since this type of treatment is minimally invasive, almost everyone can take part. Your provider will go through your health history with you to make sure there are no complicating factors.

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, you will need to delay booking your appointment. Similarly, anyone undergoing treatment for a serious condition like cancer or a respiratory illness might not be eligible, and those with active infections in the treatment area should wait until they have recovered. The best way to find out more is to call your local clinic and speak to an expert.

Restore Your Youthful Glow with Dermal Fillers

Dermal fillers are great for a wide variety of patients because they are minimally invasive, offer individualized results, and can last for many months or even years at a time. The duration of your results depends on which type of injectable you choose and how well you take care of your body in between your sessions. If you lead a healthy lifestyle, there’s no reason why you can’t experience plump, wrinkle-free skin for six to twenty-four months.

Another key advantage of Juvederm is that you don’t have to spend a lot of time at home after your session. Instead, you can go back to your regular activities almost instantly. Get in touch with us today at Finesse Cosmetic Surgery in Waltham, MA to book an initial consultation with one of our caring providers. We will be more than happy to help you find the best dermal filler for your skin.

What Is VelaShape?

There are many different devices that can address cosmetic concerns and help improve your appearance, but what if there was a device that could help you accomplish three goals during one single session? At Finesse Cosmetic Surgery in Waltham, MA, we want to introduce you to a treatment called VelaShape, a multi-platform device that utilizes vacuum technology, radiofrequency energy, and infrared light to target and improve cellulite, fat, and loose skin.

What Is VelaShape?

VelaShape is a non-invasive cellulite treatment that can eliminate cellulite and also tighten the skin and treat stubborn fat cells. During the treatment, the anti-cellulite device will use radiofrequency energy, vacuum technology, and infrared light to heat the skin and deeper layers to increase collagen and elastin production to ultimately improve the appearance of cellulite by addressing it at the source.

How Does It Work?

During a treatment session, your technician will apply the device to your desired treatment area. As the vacuum technology gently suctions your skin into the treatment head, a combination of radiofrequency energy and infrared light will heat the layers of skin where cellulite forms, just below the skin’s surface, to stimulate a bodily response that will result in increased collagen and elastin.

What Areas Does It Treat?

This treatment isn’t limited to one body area but instead can target some of the most common areas where cellulite forms, including the arms, inner and outer thighs, abdomen, flanks, neck, chin, and other body areas. If you have a specific area that you would like to treat that isn’t listed, you can discuss it with one of our experts during your initial consultation to find out if this treatment can help you reach your aesthetic goals.

What Can I Expect From the Treatment Process?

Once you undergo this treatment, you can expect to see the best results within six sessions. While it does take time for the body to increase collagen and elastin production in the deeper layers of the skin to improve the appearance of cellulite, your body will respond to the treatment, and new collagen and elastin will form. You’ll see gradual results over time, as well as some immediate improvements in the appearance and health of your skin.

Is It Painful?

This treatment is completely painless. Most patients describe the sensation as similar to a warm massage. You won’t need any numbing cream or pain medication to make it through the treatment because it won’t cause you any pain. All you have to do is show up at our office, ready to target and eliminate cellulite and experience all the benefits that come after completing the recommended number of treatments.

How Many Treatments Will I Need?

You can expect to see visibly less cellulite after undergoing the recommended number of treatments. Most patients need a series of six treatments to achieve the best results. We’ll evaluate your problem areas in person during your consultation before creating a treatment plan that’s right for you.

What Kind of Results Can I Expect?

Once you undergo the recommended number of treatment sessions to target your specific areas of concern, you can expect to see some significant invisible improvements in the appearance of your cellulite. You’ll have noticeably smoother and healthier-looking skin that looks and feels tighter. Those dimples indicative of cellulite that resemble the texture of an orange peel will be much less visible.

This is due to an increase in collagen and elastin and the deeper layers of the skin. This treatment is designed to help strengthen the foundation of the skin and, in doing so, target cellulite at its source. With regular maintenance treatments, you can help maintain a smooth, tight, uniform skin texture that will help you feel more confident in swimsuits, regular clothing, and in everyday life.

What Are the Benefits?

VelaShape is a powerful, non-invasive treatment that is helping patients everywhere finally target that cellulite that has been keeping them from looking and feeling their best for years. If you’re tired of wasting time and money on ineffective cellulite products, at-home DIY treatments, or topical solutions that don’t deliver results, you are going to love VelaShape.

This treatment is effective, non-invasive, and will deliver results. It operates according to natural scientific principles. By increasing collagen and elastin production, it works by strengthening the structure of the skin, thereby reducing cellulite.

It’s Non-Invasive

This treatment is completely non-invasive. It doesn’t require any surgical techniques, incisions, or medications. Instead, it uses a non-invasive treatment device to effectively target and improve the appearance of cellulite, skin laxity, and general skin health.

It doesn’t require any injections or invasive techniques to target cellulite. All you have to do is lay back and relax as the technician performs the treatment that will help improve the appearance of your cellulite and your sense of confidence in your appearance.

It’s a Quick Treatment

If you don’t have a lot of extra time in your schedule to spend on cosmetic treatments but still want to undergo a treatment that delivers noticeable results, this is the perfect option. Not only is this treatment non-invasive, but appointment times are relatively quick. VelaShape treatments take approximately 20 to 30 minutes to complete. If you want to treat multiple areas during your session, you’ll be able to do so, but treating multiple areas may extend your treatment time.

All Skin Types and Tones Qualify for Treatment

There are many different cosmetic treatments that can improve the skin and different areas of the body, but many of them exclude some patients with certain skin types or tones because of safety reasons.

The VelaShape treatment device is not an exclusive device; all different skin types and tones are eligible for this treatment. No one is excluded from undergoing this treatment based on skin type or tone. As long as you meet the other eligibility requirements, your skin type and tone won’t exclude you.

There’s No Downtime

Another one of the benefits of this treatment process is that there isn’t any downtime. As soon as your treatment is over, you can go about your day. You won’t have a list of post-treatment instructions to follow but instead can resume your normal daily activities, go to the gym, or even go out to lunch with friends.

It Can Treat Multiple Body Areas

Depending on your body goals, you can choose to treat one or multiple areas. While treating multiple areas may extend your total treatment time, doing so will also help you reach your ultimate body goals as quickly as possible. Cellulite doesn’t discriminate, and often if you have it in one area, you have it in multiple areas. Our technicians can create a treatment plan that helps address each area that you want to improve when you come in for your consultation.

Who Is a Candidate?

The best candidates for this cellulite reduction treatment are patients with visible cellulite on different areas of their bodies. It’s important to note that this treatment is a cosmetic treatment, not a weight-loss treatment. It’s not designed to help patients lose excess amounts of weight or body fat. Instead, it’s designed to strengthen the skin’s structure to combat and reduce the appearance of cellulite.

The Importance of Having a Specific BMI

While it will deliver noticeable and long-lasting results, maintenance appointments are necessary to help continue to increase collagen and elastin production and maintain the strongest skin foundation. It’s important that qualifying candidates have a BMI Under 30 to achieve the best results. We can assess your BMI during your consultation to confirm that this treatment is the right option for you and will help you reach your goals.

The Nurnberger-Muller Cellulite Classification Scale

Additionally, the best candidates will fall within stage one or two of the Nurnberger-Muller cellulite classification scale. Those who qualify as stage one candidates will have a dimpled skin texture that appears when pinching the desired treatment area. However, they won’t have any visible dimpling while standing. Those who qualify as stage two candidates will have visible dimpling while standing, but not while lying down.

Experience the Power of VelaShape

Cellulite can cause you to feel embarrassed, self-conscious, and discouraged about your appearance, but the good news is there is a solution that works. Our experts can help you achieve a smooth, uniform skin texture and say goodbye to visible cellulite and hello to increased confidence. Contact us today at Finesse Cosmetic Surgery in Waltham, MA, to learn more about this effective treatment and how it can help you improve your appearance.

How Soon Do You See Results From Skin Tightening?

Experiencing skin laxity as part of the natural aging process can be frustrating, particularly when your favorite skincare products don’t seem to be getting the job done anymore. After a certain point, over-the-counter products may not be able to help the skin remain firm and supple, and skin laxity can become more severe. Luckily, the experts at Finesse Cosmetic Surgery in Waltham, MA know that Ultherapy is an ideal skin tightening treatment for most people.

So, what is Ultherapy? This is a unique energy-based treatment that utilizes the power of ultrasound technology and gentle thermal energy to simultaneously see and treat areas of the skin experiencing skin laxity. The thermal energy used in this system penetrates the dermal layers and the SMAS membrane to precisely stimulate the production of collagen and elastin fibers from deep within the skin.

How Soon Do You See Results From Skin Tightening?

For most patients, the most significant results from this skin tightening treatment will be seen about two to three months after the first appointment. While some may see initial skin-plumping effects for a few days after the treatment, these initial results will fade as the skin adjusts to the treatment and starts to produce new collagen. When the collagen in the sub-dermal layers of the skin matures, the final results of the treatment will become visible.

For many, optimal results will appear after six months, although collagen production and maturation may still be active. How much collagen your skin produces in response to this treatment may be affected by factors such as your age, activity level, and general health, which can have a great impact on the function of your skin and healing response.

How Many Treatments Will You Need?

The vast majority of patients who use Ultherapy will only need one treatment to achieve their desired aesthetic results. However, the number of treatments you will need depends on the condition of your skin. Those who have mature skin with significant skin laxity may need at least one other treatment several weeks after their first appointment to produce optimal results.

What Is Treatment Like?

Your Ultherapy treatments usually take about 30 to 60 minutes to complete based on how many areas are being treated; if you are only treating the face or part of the face, then your appointment will take around 30 minutes, while treating both the face and the neck will usually take about 60 minutes. Overall, the treatment is well-tolerated by most. There are some things we can do during your treatment to ensure your comfort, such as using a topical numbing cream.

During your treatment, one of our aesthetic experts will use the Ultherapy device on your skin. This device is unique because it allows the technician to view the individual layers of skin and adjust the energy used for your treatment based on how many dermal layers need to be penetrated. The ability to “see and treat” will ensure that your treatment is precise and your outcome is optimal.

Consultation

To be a candidate for this procedure, you will need to attend a consultation appointment. Your consultation will assess the health of your skin, the severity of your skin laxity, and also review relevant medical information, such as medications and supplements you are taking. Any previous skin tightening treatments should also be discussed during your consultation.

Preparation

Preparing for your treatment will involve a few simple temporary changes, such as discontinuing blood-thinning medications, some herbal supplements, and certain anti-inflammatory medications. These medications and supplements should be temporarily discontinued for about a week before your treatment unless otherwise instructed by your medical physician.

It’s also important to prepare your skin by avoiding the use of irritating skin products, including exfoliants like salicylic acid, glycolic acid, and retinoids. You should avoid waxing or tweezing the desired treatment area, avoid unprotected sun exposure, and protect your skin from damage by using SPF 40 or higher. All of these steps will ensure your skin is in good condition for your treatment.

Aftercare

After your treatment is complete, you will need to follow post-treatment instructions to take care of your skin during the first two to five days after your appointment. For example, you should avoid hot water, steam, excessive sweating, and direct sunlight. You may not be able to wear make-up or use certain skincare products for at least 24 hours. You should also avoid scrubbing the skin and using other aesthetic treatments for at least a week.

You will be able to return to work on the same day or the day after your treatment, depending on your preferences. You will be able to drive yourself back home and attend to most of your normal schedule, except for any activities that would violate your aftercare instructions. You may be given additional aftercare instructions after your appointment based on your skin type or lifestyle factors.

How Long Do Results Last?

The results of your Ultherapy treatment will usually last for about two years, making this one of the longest-lasting skin tightening treatments available to patients. The results of this treatment will last so long because of the quality of collagen that is produced by the treatment. When deeper collagen is produced in the deepest layers of the skin, it is more likely to last longer and have a greater effect on the overall structure of your skin.

How Can You Maintain Results?

The number one way to maintain your desired results is to schedule an annual appointment once every 18 to 24 months, based on how long your results last. By attending regular treatments, you can maintain a high production of collagen and help your results last longer. Of course, there may be other things you can do to maintain your desired results, such as:

Sun Protection

Protecting your skin from the sun is a vital part of maintaining your results. One of the biggest enemies of collagen is damage from UV rays, which breaks healthy collagen down prematurely and contributes to faster skin aging. You should always wear SPF 40 or higher when you plan to be outside, particularly during the hot months of the year. Even if you sit near a window, wearing SPF is important since windows do not protect you from the UV rays associated with skin aging.

Diet and Lifestyle

Your diet and lifestyle can also have a tremendous effect on the longevity of your results. Your skin is healthiest when it has the vitamins and minerals necessary to support better skin aging, so a diet rich in omega fats and low in salt and sugar is generally best for slowing aging. Your skin also requires a lot of hydration, so drinking at least two liters of water a day can help your skin remain supple and soft.

Leading a high-stress lifestyle can also have a detrimental effect on your skin. Collagen is particularly sensitive to the stress hormone cortisol, so implementing mindfulness exercises, yoga, and tai chi may be able to help you manage stress and slow down premature skin aging.

Skincare Products

While skincare products alone aren’t strong enough to reverse the visible signs of aging, using the right skincare products can support your desired results. Your skincare products will generally affect the first few layers of your skin, so using high-quality anti-aging products can help the superficial layers of your skin remain plush and firm, which will enhance the results of your treatment.

You can use medical-grade skincare products for anti-aging, such as higher strength retinoids, or you can carefully shop for over-the-counter products that will meet the needs of your skin. Products containing retinol, collagen, and hyaluronic acid will help the skin remain firm and plush; certain acids like glycolic acid, azelaic acid, and niacinamide can support a more even tone and pigment for a more youthful glow. We can help you identify products that will work best with your skin type and goals.

Try Ultherapy Skin Tightening

Skin tightening treatments such as Ultherapy can produce results in as little as two to three months, with optimal results visible after about six months. This particular treatment can be used to tighten skin on the face and neck and can be used by those who have moderate to severe skin aging concerns. Most people will benefit from only one treatment. Contact Finesse Cosmetic Surgery in Waltham, MA to schedule your consultation with us today.