sonamedspa

BOTOX by the numbers

3,181,592: Number of BOTOX® Cosmetic treatments administered in the United States in 2006 aloneⁱ

• 1,000,000s: People who received treatment with BOTOX® for medical and aesthetic purposes around the worldⁱⁱ

• 300,000: Number of men who received treatment with BOTOX® Cosmetic in 2006ⁱⁱⁱ

• 10,000: People in clinical trials^iv

• 3,000: Publications on Botulinum Toxin Type A in scientific and medical journals^v

• 100: Years of study into botulinum neurotoxins^vi

• 97: Percentage of people satisfied with their BOTOX® Cosmetic treatment based on a survey of approximately 1,000 patients^vii

• 75: Countries around the world who have approved use of BOTOX®

• 20: BOTOX® indications approved by regulatory authorities around the world, including the aesthetic indication

• 18: Years since U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved BOTOX® to treat excessive eye blinking and crossed eyes

• 11: Descriptor for the glabellar (vertical) lines between the brows which can be treated with BOTOX® Cosmetic, that can help improve one’s overall facial appearance

• 8: Years since FDA approval of BOTOX® for the treatment of cervical dystonia (painful neck twisting condition) in adults

• 6: Years since FDA approval of BOTOX® Cosmetic for the treatment of the moderate to severe glabellar (vertical) lines between the brows in adults 18 to 65

• 4: Years since FDA approval of BOTOX® for the treatment of severe primary hyperhidrosis (excessive underarm sweating) inadequately managed with topical agents

• 1: Rank of BOTOX® Cosmetic on list of “Top 5 Surgical & Nonsurgical Physician Administered Cosmetic Procedures,”^viii according to American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

 

Information supplied by Allergan.

   

© 2008 Allergan, Inc. Irvine, CA 92612. ® marks owned by Allergan, Inc.

___________________________________________________

i. American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery Quick Facts http://www.surgery.org/download/2006stats.pdf

ii. Allergan press release “Allergan, Inc Responds to Public Citizen’s Allegation Regarding a Fatality Following BOTOX® Cosmetic

Treatment” 01/25/08

iii. American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery Quick Facts http://www.surgery.org/download/2006stats.pdf

iv. Allergan press release “Allergan, Inc Comments on BOTOX® (Botulinum Toxin Type A) Safety Profile” Released 01/24/08

v. BOTOX® History and Development Fact Sheet, updated 01.04.08

vi. BOTOX® History and Development Fact Sheet, updated 01.04.08

vii. Aesthetic Surgery Education & Research Foundation press release “First-of-its-kind Survey Finds That BOTOX Cosmetic has

Gone Mainstream” Released 04/28/06

viii. American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery Top 5 Surgical & Nonsurgical Cosmetic Procedures

http://www.surgery.org/download/2006-Top5.pdf

Lipotherapy - Some Questions & Answers

Rather than respond to the individual questions, I am copying some of the questions into this post, and addressing all the questions that they raise.

What is the difference between what Sona offers and what Fig offers? I found Fig to be a little out of my budget. Do you know if Sona is lower in cost?

Answer: As you are probably aware, FIG closed their doors somewhere in December 2007, so this question probably does not apply any more. I do not know how FIG priced their services, so I could not comment on the relative pricing either.

Posted by: Heather | November 15, 2007 at 11:21 AM

Will it get rid of the double chin fat?

Answer: Lipotherapy can be used on the “double chin”. See the “before” and “after” picture that I am including.

Posted by: chris | November 16, 2007 at 01:02 PM

Are there any long term effects?

Answer: The American Society of Nonsurgical Aesthetics started trials in 2001, and published a report in 2004. Here is a brief extract from that report, indicating that currently there are no known long-term effects of Lipotherapy, but that more data (and time) is necessary to study this relatively new procedure.

“In aesthetic medicine - and especially in the surgical field - there are therapies that present a much greater risk to patients than what is theoretically possible with LipoDissolve injections. As example of this, I would merely refer to the figures available on the number of serious incidents following liposuction and the frequently unsatisfactory aesthetic results from cosmetic surgery. Recent reported data published in Austria claim that 1/10 of all liposuction procedures either result in surgical deformities or patient discontentment, the figure being far higher than what had been expected. LipoDissolve can eliminate many risks apart from deformities resulting from surgery; to compare the risks facing older patients, side effects from surgery requiring general anesthesia can involve a distinct loss of cognitive functions affecting the patients everyday life and living. More recent studies indicate that we cannot fully exclude the possibility that alteration in mental functions can occur even in younger people who undergo any form of surgery that require anesthesia.

From these reports and taking in consideration the many risks associated with surgery, it is surprising that LipoDissolve injections has been the target of much faulty criticism instead of being accepted with an open but scientific curiosity. Our safety reports have been very positive and we lack data of immediate adverse side-effects even in several thousand cases of clinical use - although we naturally wish for more advanced studies, and long term studies to give more thorough reports.”

Posted by: lenzie | December 03, 2007 at 04:06 PM

I would like to know the pricing for mainly the stomach area.

Answer:

Let me address the issue of price, as it frequently comes up as a question.

I am aware that there are providers that would quote a price, as if the Lipotherapy procedure is a pre-packaged product. Sōna MedSpa takes a different approach. You have to come in for a consultation so that a consultant can assess your body type, determine your Body Mass Index (BMI) and the amount of fat to be removed, and whether you are indeed a candidate for Lipotherapy. Only at that point will the consultant be able to customize and price a treatment package for you.

Your consultation will not take long – This is the most important step in the Lipotherapy process. During your free consultation an experienced consultant will personally cover:

• What you can expect
• How Lipotherapy works
• The affordability of Sōna MedSpa

Posted by: Julia | December 10, 2007 at 11:48 AM

I have lost some weight.
I have about 3 to 4 inches of excess skin around my stomach area.
I have about 1 to 2 inches of excess skin around my upper thigh area.
I would like my butt area tighter also.
I would like to know the pricing.

Answer: See the response to the previous post/question, addressing the issue of price.

Posted by: Lynette H.Gillard | February 07, 2008 at 12:08 PM

How much would it cost to get rid of my belly and inner and outer thighs? and can a 14 year old get this procedure? –heather

Answer: It is not recommended doing Lipotherapy on a 14 year old person. At that age, the body is still undergoing significant change, and much of the results achieved with Lipotherapy may end up being undone as the body matures.

As for the cost of Lipotherapy, see the previous post on the cost of Lipotherapyabove.

Posted by: heather | February 26, 2008 at 04:58 PM

Very interested in learning more about Lipodissolve. I'm active (walk 10-15 miles per week) and eat healthy, however at age 47 I'm having fatty trouble spots appear especially my tummy! And I'd like to know if these treatments work on the neck area and puffy eyes. I'm currently a laser hair removal client and am happy with the results so far.
Thanks!

Answer:  At age 47 you still have your best years ahead!

Lipotherapy is effectively used in the double chin area (See the “before” and “after” picture included above). It is difficult to say whether it would work on the neck – even our understanding of these areas may be different…and another good example why it is important to go in to Sōna for a free consultation. As for the puffy areas around the eyes – this does not sound like a typical Lipotherapy application, but there are a number of other treatment alternatives that Sōna has for treating the skin, smoothing and rejuvenating the skin, skin tightening, etc – well worth a visit to the MedSpa.

Posted by: sherrill bland | March 05, 2008 at 01:01 PM

Is there a price RANGE you might be able to disclose. no matter how wide a range. or post a brochure to give us an idea

Answer: Please see the previous post addressing the issue of pricing, and why Sōna MedSpa does not take a one-size-fits-all approach. The consultation referred to is free and without any commitment. All you have to lose are inches…!

Posted by: Monica | March 13, 2008 at 08:04 PM

I am interested in lipodissolve for my stomach and maybe thigh areas. i am 5'2, 110 lbs, and carry a little extra chub that i want to remove. how much will lipodissove cost (payment plan/total cost of everything)and how long will it take?

Answer: As for the cost of Lipotherapy, see the previous posts on the cost of Lipotherapy above.

The Lipotherapy treatment is dependent on the number of areas that are to be treated, as the body acts as a natural regulator on the process – as is to be expected, the more areas you decide to do, the longer the process will take. Typically, for a single area, the process would take about 16 weeks to complete.

Posted by: Shannon | April 03, 2008 at 11:49 AM

Ever thought of getting a "new face" for the new year?

Let’s start the new year with some long lasting wrinkle reduction. Restylane enhances your natural looks by restoring your skin’s volume, creating softness and revitalizing your appearance. Restylane replaces lost volume and restores youthful contours to the skin to smooth away moderate to severe facial wrinkles and folds, such as the lines from your nose to the corners of your mouth (nasolabial folds).

Why Restylane?

Since 1996, dermatologists and plastic surgeons outside the U.S. have used Restylane to contour and restore volume to skin and temporarily eliminate wrinkles and facial folds. Restylane was the first hyaluronic acid based dermal filler to be approved by the FDA in 2003, and it is the world's most used, most studied dermal filler. It has been used in over 70 countries and in more than 1.4 million treatments in the U.S.

What is hyaluronic acid?

Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance that is already present in your body and is important for imparting firmness to skin. As a facial filler, hyaluronic acid works to improve appearance by attracting and binding water molecules and thereby increasing volume. This additional volume smooths out folds, wrinkles and lines for a more youthful look.

Is Restylane safe?

Restylane’s safety and efficacy is proven beyond a doubt, with robust clinical data spanning a decade. Restylane does not contain animal proteins. This limits any risk of animal-based disease transmission or allergic reactions. Restylane does not require an allergy test and can be administered immediately, so there is no waiting for treatments.

Adverse reactions to Restylane are rare. Side effects are infrequent and temporary. You might experience mild swelling and redness, and occasional bruising at the injection site

How long does Restylane last?

Restylane treatment is long-lasting but not permanent. The length of time a treatment maintains its effect is very individual and depends on many factors, such as your age, skin type, life-style and muscle activity, as well as the injection technique. Experience shows that Restylane can be effective for at least six months or more after the treatment of lines and folds.

Restylane gives you flexibility and control over your looks. Because your face changes shape as you age, you want to avoid a permanent look you might regret in years to come.

How is Restylane administered?

Restylane is injected directly into the skin in small amounts by an ultrafine needle. As with all injections, some clients may experience discomfort. To increase your comfort, your nurse will assess your need for pain management and determine what technique is right for you. Normally a topical pain medication is administered 30 minutes prior to your injection.

How long is the recovery after Restylane?

Restylane treatment usually fits in well with busy lifestyles, with minimal downtime, and gives results that can be seen instantly. The procedure is quick; it usually takes less than 30 minutes and the benefits can be seen immediately. Almost anyone who would like to reduce the prominence of their facial lines and wrinkles can be a candidate for Restylane treatments.

What should I know before a Restylane treatment?

Prior to treatment, avoid using aspirin, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications, St. John's wort, or high doses of Vitamin E supplements as these can lead to additional bruising.

If you’re considering Restylane to give your face a younger, fresher look and feeling, or if you would like to find out more about the benefits of treatment with dermal fillers, schedule a consultation with a Sona consultant to discuss your options.

Noel Halgreen

Sōna MedSpa

Creams, Serums, Lotions, and Potions: Making Sense of Cosmeceuticals (Part 2)

To help you get started, I will review a list of a few active ingredients and what they do for your skin:

Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHA): Fruit acids, most common form is Glycolic acid. Excellent exfoliant that helps refine the texture and appearance of the skin by loosening those top layers of dead skin cells and increasing cell turnover. New cells look better and brighter than old, dull, dead cells.

 

Benzoyl Peroxide: The most common medication to treat acne.  Significantly decreases the bacteria in the skin that cause acne. Also reduces the fats and oils in the skin and helps to shed the top layers of dead cells.

 

Hydroquinone: “Bleaching” cream that blocks the formation of melanin in the skin. More accurately called a depigmenting product. These actually stop the natural melanin in your skin from being able to turn into brown spots when activated by the sun and it fades and in some cases erases the brown spots that are already there. The pigment will return when the product is stopped.

   

Retinoic Acid (Tretinoin): Vitamin A acid. Wonder drug for skin that improves fine and coarse wrinkling, helps fade age spots, leaves the skin feel smoother, and increases the production of collagen and elastin fibers.

   

Salicylic Acid: Beta Hydroxy Acid (BHA) softens the skin and promotes shedding of the top dead skin cell layers. Helpful in treating acne for those that are sensitive or allergic to Benzoyl Peroxide.

   

Titanium Dioxide (TiO2) and Zinc Oxide (ZnO): Physical sunscreens. Both are highly reflective white powders that act as barriers to reflect and scatter the sun’s radiation. A good SPF should contain at least one of these ingredients.

   

Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid): Increases the production of collagen and offers protection from free radicals. Must be in topical form, taken orally Vitamin C will not reach the skin.

   

Remember that skin care is not a perfect science. We each have distinct body chemistry; what works for your sister may not work for you. Use this basic knowledge to choose products wisely. Give them at least 2 weeks of dedicated use to work their magic before moving on for another try. It may take a little trial and error but armed with this information you can be sure you are making the best decisions to combat your targeted problem. If you think you have tried it all and are just too flustered to go on, please don’t give up! Come and see one of our Sōna consultants for a free customized skin evaluation. We can help get you on the right track to realizing your most beautiful skin.

   

Beth Storey (RN, BSN, MEP-c)

Clinical Director, Sōna MedSpa - Houston

Creams, Serums, Lotions, and Potions: Making Sense of Cosmeceuticals (Part 1)

We’ve all been there; either at the corner drugstore or in the department store looking dazed and confused at the endless aisles filled with bottles of skin care items. All promising to make us look younger, brighter, firmer, and cover shot worthy. I am victim to this as much as the next girl; spending hundreds of dollars on a plethora of products in pretty packaging only to face the harsh truth a few weeks later….I still don’t look like a supermodel. It may smell good or feel nice on my skin but is it really doing anything? Or even worse…now I’m having breakouts, oily or dry patches, and red blotchy cheeks! What’s a girl to do with so many choices out there? How do I know what I need and what is going to work for my concerns?

   

Well, there is the first and most important step. You must know what outcome you desire. Do you want relief from acne, your crow’s feet minimized, or smoother texture?  This list could go on forever but break it down into one or two really important issues and start from there. Once you have decided what problem you are going to correct then you can look for active ingredients that target that issue.

   

Trust me, you don’t need an arsenal of 20 products day and night to keep you looking your best. As you age, your skin goes through changes so your problem of focus will change as well. Each year revamp your list of major problem targets to reflect the current status of your skin. You will be surprised that after just six months to a year of good quality skin product your acne is cleared and you can move on to the next item on your list…pesky pores or bothersome brown spots.

   

Everyone needs to start with a basic face wash, an exfoliating product, and most importantly top it off with an SPF 30 or higher. So that is three, possibly two things (if you combine the wash and exfoliator) every bathroom counter should hold. From there you add in your specialty products fit to your desired outcomes. No need to go overboard with these either; typically one or two targeted products is plenty.

Choose your targeted products wisely based on the main active ingredient. That is what is going to get you results. Steer clear of products that list water or alcohol as their primary ingredient; unfortunately this is just fluff and a waste of time in your skin care routine.

   

To help you get started, I will review a list of a few active ingredients and what they do for your skin in Part Two of this article. Find your target problem, see what treats it best and try products with that ingredient as the primary one.

    

Beth Storey (RN, BSN, MEP-c)

Clinical Director, Sōna MedSpa - Houston

Can I Improve My Skin Without Downtime?

Twenty-four-seven – that’s the pace we all run at… There is just never a break. So, if you can’t handle any down-time, what can you do to improve your skin? We all desire healthy and radiant skin. Environmental factors, genetics and stress take a toll on your skin. Over time, the aging process and the effects of the sun, wind and pollutants in the air can wreak havoc on your skin. Unfortunately, our highly competitive society places a premium on a youthful look.

 

Depending on what your concerns are, there may be a no down-time solution available. If you have always felt self conscious about those brown spots (maybe even a birthmark), the fine lines or wrinkles that are starting to show, Intense Pulsed Light Technology (IPL) may be the answer for you. Often referred to as “The Gold Standard” for photorejuvenation, IPL is a breakthrough, age defying procedure that treats skin damage safely, effectively and non-invasively and consists of a series of gentle pulsed light treatments intended to improve the appearance of sun damaged and aged skin, as well as reduce redness and flushing; resulting in a more youthful appearing skin. Photorejuvenation uses no chemicals, has no recovery time, and does not disrupt the skin surface.

   

IPL and the next generation called Advanced Fluorescence Technology (AFT™*) has received international recognition and media attention from programs such as “Good Morning America,” and magazines such as Vogue, Allure, Good Housekeeping and Harper.

    

Sōna's skilled use of FDA-approved AFT can hone in on color-producing melanin cells within pigments, in effect "bleaching" the cells.  (Darkening may occur for a few days before the age spots begin to lighten.) Rejuvenation is the process of restoring to a new or more youthful appearance, and that's exactly what our treatments aim to do for your skin.  By using specialized handsets and precisely controlling the amount and intensity of light, we are able to effectively treat problem areas with pulsed light - without damaging healthy surrounding skin. And we can do all of this in a 30-minute procedure in which intense pulses of light are used to penetrate deep into the skin, causing collagen and blood vessels below the epidermis to constrict, reducing redness and age lines. The procedure involves only minimal discomfort, while the redness and swelling that sometimes occur after treatment disappear shortly afterwards. The benefits of a photorejuvenation occur gradually in the weeks following treatment.

   

Noel Halgreen

Sona Medspa

What is Collagen, and why is it so important?

Collagen is one of the most plentiful proteins present in our bodies. This amazing protein makes up about 25 percent of the total amount of proteins in the body. It I often said that Collagen is the glue that holds the body together. With this said, you can imagine that without it, the body would, quite literally, fall apart.

Collagen acts like a connective tissue and is the cement that holds everything together. The picture below  gives that same impression of a binding “mortar” between the bricks of all of our smooth muscle tissues. Collagen and elastin are key structural component of the skin, but also of bones, cartilage, tendons, lung tissue and blood vessels. Even the blood vessels rely on both collagen and elastin. Elastin provides flexibility to body tissues, while Collagen provides structure and firmness.

Collagen is also responsible for the skin's strength. Collagen molecules pack together throughout the dermis, making up 75% of the dry weight of skin.

Collagen is often discussed in relation to the skin. Here it works with keratin to provide the skin with flexibility, resilience and strength. As people age, however, collagen degradation occurs gradually, leading to fine lines and wrinkles. This phenomenon is discussed in more detail in the article “Why does our skin age?” Collagen is therefore an important substance for those looking for ways to fight the visible effects of aging on the skin.

Noel Halgreen

Sōna MedSpa

BOTOX ® MYTHS

Myth no. 1: BOTOX ® is dangerous

BOTOX ® has been used since 1987…which means that its effects and side effects…and long term effects…are well known and documented. The use of BOTOX ® is still growing annually, with more than 2.8 million procedures currently being performed on a yearly basis. Studies over a 9 year period have shown no long-term negative effects through the repeated use of BOTOX ® among patients that received 30 injections over a nine year period.

Myth no.2: BOTOX ® will give me that “frozen face” look

Quite the opposite! BOTOX ® restores the balance in the facial muscles and creates that “relaxed” look. By injecting the right amount of BOTOX ®, you can reduce the fine lines and wrinkles and achieve that “soft” look.

Myth no. 3: BOTOX ® is poisonous!

The effects of BOTOX ® are temporary, as the body naturally eliminates the administered BOTOX ® over a 3 to 6 month period of time. Clearly, as with any medication, excessive amounts should be avoided.

Myth no.4: BOTOX ® treatments can cause my eye(s) to droop

Getting your BOTOX ® from an experienced medical professional is the key to minimizing this risk. Studies have shown the risk of this side effect to be less than 2%. As the effect of BOTOX ® is temporary, this effect will wear off in a few weeks, should it occur.

Myth no.5: “I am afraid the injections will be painful”

Here I tread carefully, as we all know that pain is a very personal experience! But to put this into perspective, your BOTOX ® treatment involves a few tiny injections that require no anesthesia. If this is your concern, talk to your clinician before the treatment. They can apply ice or a topical anesthetic, if this is required, although our experience has shown that this is rarely the case.

Noel Halgreen

Sōna MedSpa

What is Microdermabrasion?

Microdermabrasion (often referred to as Microderm) is a progressive, non-invasive treatment popular in day spas, doctors' practices, and medical spas, in which the stratum corneum (dead outermost surface of the skin) is partially or completely removed by light abrasion. As with most procedures, the technology in this field has developed from its original inception. Different methods include mechanical abrasion from jets of zinc oxide or aluminum oxide crystals, fine organic particles, or the latest technology provides for a diamond tipped roughened surface. Particles are removed through the wand/hand piece through which the abrasive particles come, or via the diamond chips on the end of the wand. In both crystals and diamond microdermabrasion systems the dead skin cells are sucked away from the face. The term dermabrasion itself refers to the more severe medical procedure carried out under general or light anesthesia. Removing the outer layer of the stratum corneum promotes the production of new cells in the deepest layer of the dermis. It also cleans pores and aids in balancing oil production. It further stimulates collagen networking to even out skin texture and tone.

The area (typically the face) is thoroughly cleansed to remove excess oils from the skin. A clinician then manually passes a wand over the skin on the face. It gently abrades the surface while a vacuum thoroughly cleanses the skin of impurities. The procedure lasts 15 to 25 minutes. Afterwards a soothing toner is typically applied to the face, followed by a hydrating cream and sunblock.

Microdermabrasion works in two ways. It works by gently exfoliating or removing the outside layers (stratum corneum) of the skin. The abrasive action of the wand gently removes the outer surface layers, allowing smoother, fresher skin to be apparent. The second way is that the vacuum action helps to stimulate microcirculation and lymphatic flow, increasing the blood supply that provides nutrients needed for skin regeneration. This helps accelerate the skin’s repair process and stimulates the formation of new collagen and elastin thereby improving skin texture and elasticity.

Noel Halgreen
Sõna MedSpa

What are Paraffin Wax Treatments?

Paraffin wax treatments are luxurious spa treatments for the skin. They are intended to moisturize and soften the skin. When one thinks of wax, one typically thinks of something solid – the paraffin wax is heated up, and therefore applies smoothly and evenly to the skin. Paraffin wax treatments are most often applied to the hands and feet. What sets paraffin wax apart from other types of waxes used typically for hair removal is that it is less viscous and does not bond to the skin.

Paraffin wax is a softer wax because of the paraffin oil component in the wax. As it is a soft wax, it melts at a lower temperature than a hard wax. This means that the skin of the hands and the feet can be submerged in the warm paraffin wax without causing burning or blistering. Spa technicians used to melt blocks of paraffin wax in special vats for these treatments. Technicians would then wrap the hands or feet in plastic and leave them to "soak" in the layer of wax for up to half an hour. With modern technology today, these wax treatments come prepackaged. With the prepackaged treatments, the wax is heated in the packaging, and the hands or feet then placed inside the “glove” or “boot”. The hands or feet are therefore immersed in the wax inside the “glove” or the “boot”.

As you can imagine, paraffin wax treatments are particularly popular in the winter. They are warming (have a really great aroma!) and because they provide a significant amount of moisture to dry and cracked skin. As heat is applied to the skin during paraffin wax treatments, it opens the pores and softens the skin. At this point the paraffin oil enters the skin to moisturize, nourish and replenish it. In order to have a soothing effect on the skin during the treatments, calming oils are often added to the wax in order to add a further aromatherapy dimension to the experience.

Once the skin has been soaked for 25 to 30 minutes, the wax layers harden. The wax can then be removed from the skin. Because the wax is soft and contains oil, it does not become very stiff and does not adhere to the skin. Because of this, after a paraffin wax treatment, the skin is left smooth and soft.

People who experience dry skin during the colder seasons often find paraffin wax treatments to be a helpful as well as relaxing preventative measure. Dry, cracked heels and knuckles can make cold weather unbearable. One or two moisturizing paraffin wax treatments can help a great deal during the colder months. If you are interested in purchasing paraffin wax treatments for yourself or as gifts, get in touch with Sōna MedSpa.

Noel Halgreen
Sõna MedSpa