Which is Better for You: Restylane or Juvederm?

April 10th, 2010


As far as dermal fillers in Ottawa go, Restylane® and Juvederm™ are two of the most popular products in Canada. Their popularity is probably due to their ability to effectively achieve desirable results, relatively quickly and safely. They can also treat a variety of aesthetic problems: smoothing out mild to moderate facial wrinkles, augmenting the lips, filling out scars, and changing facial contours like the chin and cheeks – all from a treatment that doesn’t involve incisions and takes less than an hour.

Here are the similarities:

  • Both are in a gel form based on hyaluronic acid, responsible for maintaining volume and moisture levels in the skin.
  • Both come in syringes.
  • Both are injected into the skin.
  • Both come in different intensities, as distinguished by the median size of the gel’s particles and the concentration of hyaluronic acid. The problem determines the intensity.
  • Both achieve temporary results with minimal downtime. Side effects include short lived swelling, irritation and bruising.

And here are the differences:

Restylane®

Restylane® was the first hyaluronic acid based injectable filler approved by the FDA. Introduced to the market back in 2004, the product is a gel composed of microspheres that differ in size according to intensity (larger particles means it’s more intense and can last longer). One syringe contains 1cc.

Results generally last about half a year or more. Juvederm™, on the other hand, can last anywhere from 3 months or more. However, reports all say something different here – some patients find Juvederm™ lasts longer, while others prefer Restylane®. It really depends on the patient, doctor, and problem corrected.

Juvederm™


Juvederm™ is manufactured to be smoother in consistency than Restylane®. Many physicians believe this smooth texture allows it to achieve better results in some areas of the face, particularly the lips. One syringe contains .80cc.

Side effects from a Juvederm™ injection can last for about 24 hours. On the other hand, many patients find the side effects resulting from Restylane® can last up to 3 days.

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Open House: Learn more about SmartXide DOT Fractional CO2 Laser

April 6th, 2010

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Laser Skin Treatment Ottawa

March 10th, 2010

Closeup portrait of beautiful young female isolated over white b

Looking for laser skin treatment in Ottawa? Look no further!

Dermaworks Medical Aesthetics Clinic is proud to offer Ottawa laser skin treatments. Designed to treat a number of aesthetic problems afflicting the skin, this revolutionary medical technology utilizes one of the most advanced laser platforms in aesthetic medicine. Combat the signs of aging, repair damage caused by prolonged sun exposure, or treat acne and acne scars – experience the therapeutic effects of laser technology as performed by Dr. Demetra Vassiliou, Chief Physician of Dermaworks Medical Aesthetics Clinic.

What can Laser Skin Therapy Treat?
Laser skin therapy can non-surgically treat problems affecting the face and body, as well as facilitate the production of collagen. Problems that may be treated include lesions (vascular, such as spider veins, and pigmented, such as cafe au lait and age spots), acne, rosacea and fine wrinkles. Moles and nevi cannot be treated and should be examined by your physician to ensure that they are not harmful.

To treat a lesion, the intense light energy of the laser is  absorbed by the skin’s pigment and blood in the vessel of the exposed area. This breaks down the pigment or collapses the walls of the offending vessel, thereby eliminating the pigmented lesion or vascular lesion. To treat acne, the laser creates the formation of free radicals by targeting porphyrin, which ultimately eliminate the P.acnes bacteria that is believed to cause breakouts.

Within one or more sessions, your skin will appear rejuvenated, looking more youthful, smooth, and luminous. Up to four sessions may be required to achieve optimal results. Maintenance sessions may be required, particularly for rosacea and continuing sun damage.

For more information regarding laser skin treatment in the Ottawa area, please schedule your consultation by calling (613) 667-9455 or emailing us.

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How Botox Treats Wrinkles

February 7th, 2010

BOTOX® CosmeticBOTOX®Cosmetic is a purified botulinum neurotoxin type A complex (BTX-A) in sterile form. Ingredients of the product also include human serum albumin and sodium chloride.

When injected directly into the muscle, BOTOX® Cosmetic binds to the sites of receptors on motor nerve terminals then enters these terminals to inhibit the release of acetylcholine (ACh), a chemical that stimulates muscle tissue. In other words, the product blocks ACh in order to paralyze the muscles in the treated area so they cannot contract. This occurs in the days following treatment. Without muscle movement, the overlying skin does not crease or wrinkle - which is how BOTOX® Cosmetic has been deemed an effective treatment for dynamic wrinkles located between the eyebrows, across the forehead and at the outer corners of the eyes. These dynamic wrinkles are familiarly known as glabellar lines, worry lines and crow’s feet respectively. (Static wrinkles, those lines and creases that are present even when the muscles are at rest, are better treated with injectable fillers such Juvederm and Teosyal. Dermal fillers add volume to the skin, “filling in” the crease.)

BOTOX® Cosmetic is packaged in vials. A single vial contains 100 units. The amount of doses needed for treatment depends on the individual and the area. Results are temporary and research has shown that the effects gradually wear off over time, usually in a few months. Treatments may be repeated to prolong results, each scheduled at least 2 months apart.

before-after-botoxBOTOX® Cosmetic should not be used for patients who are pregnant or are hypersentive to botulinum toxin type A or any other ingredient in the product or container. If an infection at the injection site exists, treatment may be postponed until the area is completely healed. It is not recommended for children under 18 years of age or adults over 65.

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Teosyal Dermal Filler

January 3rd, 2010

teosyallogo

Recognized as one of the world’s most effective dermal fillers, Dermaworks Aesthetics Medical Clinic is proud to offer Teosyal®.

teosyalbeforeafterTeosyal® is a completely hyaluronic acid based soft tissue filler manufactured by Swiss based Teoxane Laboratories. This gel, highly viscous and elastic, can add volume as well out fill out the wrinkles and creases that appear on the face, neck and hands. Areas that may be targeted include forehead lines, wrinkles around the eyes, marionette lines, and vertical lip lines. It can also add volume to facial contours to achieve a more youthful appearance. Desirable results may be achieved after a single treatment, however you should anticipate up to four treatments, performed on a weekly basis.

Each procedure at our medical clinic is performed by an experienced physician. The injection is administered using a patented syringe specially designed by the manufacturers of Teosyal® that makes it easier to deliver the product with precision and prevents any leaking. The targeted area will be massaged by the physician immediately following injection to distribute the product more uniformly.

Teosyal® boasts a high concentration of biocompatible hyaluronic acid, a substance essential in naturally maintaining volume and suppleness of the skin. The hyaluronic acid is non-animal based and completely biodegradable. Only trace amounts of protein (less than 5 μg/mL) and bacterial endotoxins (less than 0.2 EU/mL) are included in the product, significantly decreasing the risk of complications from occurring, such as hypersensitivity, inflammation and swelling. There is no downtime and like other dermal fillers, results are temporary but last for a long time due to its composition. Maintenance sessions approximately once every three months may be required.

Teosyal® is not suitable for people with auto immune diseases, hypersensitivity to hyaluronic acid, or who are pregnant or breastfeeding. It is not compatible with laser skin treatments or therapeutic peels. If a skin infection at the proposed site exists, the procedure may be postponed until it is completely healed.

images courtesy of Teoxane Laboratories

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More About Fractional CO2 Laser Skin Resurfacing

December 7th, 2009

Fractional CO2 Laser Skin Resurfacing treatment with DOT (Dermal Optical Thermolysis) Therapy is the newest addition to the services we offer at our clinic, and you can get 10% of the procedure if you book now at (613) 667-9455 or by email!

According to Macrene Alexiades-Armenakas, MD, phD, assistant clinical professor at Yale University School of Medicine, “the emergence of ablative fractional CO2 is one of the most important advances in laser and light-based aesthetic medicine since traditional CO2 laser resurfacing. It is the culmination of more than 15 years of clinical experience and research.”

Our CO2 laser device is a revolutionary new laser that combines the long standing effectiveness of the CO2 laser with fractional technology to deliver a gentle yet powerful nonsurgical treatment that safely revitalizes the skin. It can resurface the skin as well as rejuvenate collagen production in a uniform and homogenous treament.

About the procedure
The procedure is performed at the Dermaworks clinic. A topical anesthetic can be applied beforehand to ease discomfort. The area to be treated is defined and then cleaned with alcohol (males patients may need to have the area shaved). After the skin has dried completely, the area is exposed to the mobile and compact CO2 laser device, which operates on 110 volts.

fractionalbeforeafter

The intensity of the laser, pulse width, and the spacing of fractional beams may be adjusted according to the type of problem and patient. It may even be customized to make it more compatible to a patient’s lifestyle. For example, if a patient is able to reserve some time for recovery, the intensity of the laser may be increased to achieve more dramatic results in a single session. For those with a hectic schedule, “lunch hour” treatments can be milder. Intensity may also vary in a single session, increasing aggressiveness in areas that require deeper correction. Needless to say, the more aggressive a procedure is, the longer the recovery.

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Fractional CO2 Laser Skin Resurfacing

November 16th, 2009

Call now to take advantage of 10% off the original price!

One of the most popular laser skin rejuvenation treatments in the medical aesthetics field, fractional CO2 laser skin resurfacing has the ability to target a number of cosmetic problems afflicting facial skin, including wrinkles and creases, lax skin around the eyes, and uneven pigmentation. It can also reduce the appearance of scars by addressing discolouration and texture irregularities.

CO2 lasers have long been considered the highest standard of skin laser resurfacing technology. While it has been around for well over a decade, the technology has evolved to improve effectiveness while at the same time dramatically reducing the negative side effects that have been traditionally associated with the procedure. Gone are the extensive recovery periods, chance of permanent hypopigmentation (lightening of the skin), and other possible complications following each treatment – thanks to the fractional nature of today’s state of the art CO2 laser.

fractionatedco2laser

The fractional CO2 laser for laser skin resurfacing emits pulses of scattered beams at a high intensity across the surface of the target area. Each tiny beam perforates the skin and ablates (vaporize) tissue, which induces immediate skin tightening and facilitates the growth of collagen, the building block of healthy youthful skin.

This unique technology achieves remarkable results after one or two sessions (unlike other similar treatments that require far more) and avoids resulting in undesirable hypopigmentation. The bridges of skin between the vaporized columns of tissue help with the healing process and reduce the healing time and risk of complications. Except for full Co2 resurfacing, which can be risky, there is no other laser that is as effective in reducing wrinkles. Downtime ranges from 2 to 7 days, depending on the aggressiveness of the treatment.

For more information regarding Fractional CO2 Laser Skin Resurfacing in the Ottawa area, please contact Dermaworks Medical Aesthetics and take advantage of 10% off the original price!

image courtesy of DEKA Smartxide DOT

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Juvederm™

November 8th, 2009

juvedermDermaworks™ Medical Aesthetics Clinic offers a variety of dermal filler products in the Ottawa area, providing you the ability to select the most appropriate solution for you to combat the visible signs of aging.

Juvederm™

One of the most popular dermal fillers currently in the industry today is Juvederm™. Much like the other dermal fillers we offer at our clinic, Juvederm™ is a smooth and clear gel based on hyaluronic acid. Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring sugar in the human body that is vital in maintaining the smooth and supple qualities of healthy skin. Because it is biocompatible, no allergy test is required prior to treatment.

Research has shown that it is safe for all skin tones. As a matter of fact, according to Allergan, Juvederm™, “…is the first hyaluronic acid dermal filler that is proven to be safe and effective for persons of colour.”

The procedure takes about half an hour and there is little or no downtime afterward, although side effects related to injections, such as swelling and discomfort, may occur. When injected, Juvederm™ plumps up the skin by replenishing depleting levels of hyaluronic acid. Achieving instant and temporary results, this biodegradable product breaks down over a few months, gradually and harmlessly. Results may last up to one year, however it really depends on the individual and their situation.

Its uniquely smooth consistency has been designed to achieve instant and long-lasting results that appear natural. As a result, dermal filler treatments using Juvederm™ and many other hyaluronic acid based products have become one of the most popular methods of skin rejuvenation in the medical aesthetics field.

What It Can Help With
Juvederm™ is ideal to treat wrinkles, lines and creases that remain even when the face is not moving. It can target the area around the mouth and nose, around the outer corners of the eyes, and the cheeks.

With its ability to boost volume, Juvederm™ is also used to augment facial features, most notably the lips and cheeks.

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Getting Rid of Acne Rosacea with Laser Treatments

October 18th, 2009

acnerosacea
Acne rosacea, commonly referred to as rosacea, causes redness and swelling on the face. The first signs of this skin condition are a tendency to blush easily in the center of the face, with gradual blushing spreading to the cheeks, forehead, nose, and chin. As acne rosacea progresses, little bumps form in the reddened areas. Unlike traditional acne, blackheads do not form.

Acne rosacea is a chronic condition that affects fourteen million people in the United States alone, with similar figures in Canada. The condition, commonly found in fair-skinned people of Irish and Scottish descent, causes visible broken blood vessels, small red bumps, cysts, and irritated eyes. Sufferers may not initially realize that they have the condition, believing instead that their skin is sunburned.

Acne rosacea is also called “adult acne” because it is most common among adults between the ages of 30 and 50. The cause of acne rosacea remains a mystery but some factors that are thought to contribute to the condition include genetics, sun exposure, certain medications, helicobacter pylori bacteria, and gastrointestinal disease.

Laser Treatment for Acne Rosacea
An increasing number of people who suffer from acne rosacea are turning to laser and light therapies since they do not cause the worrisome side effects associated with other treatments. The pulsed dye laser (PDL) is a type of laser that has been used for many years to reduce the flushing, redness, and visible blood vessels associated with acne rosacea. PDL targets and destroys the visible blood vessels.

Intense pulsed light (IPL) therapy is another forum of light therapy that is effective in reducing the redness and flushing associated with this condition. IPL therapy filters out harmful UVA and UVB rays and then delivers light to areas with visible blood vessels. While PDL therapy is most effective for targeting obvious blood vessels, IPL therapy is more effective in treating larger areas of redness. It has long-lasting results, can treat dilated blood vessels effectively without injuring the surrounding skin and has the ability to destroy the bacteria thbelieved to cause acne rosacea.

Erbium lasers and fractional photothermolysis are used to treat a less common symptom of acne rosacea known as rhinophyma. Rhinophyma is characterized by thick and bumpy skin on the nose and cheeks. These new forms of laser therapy are effective in smoothing out the nose and cheeks without removing an excessive amount of the skin’s top layer.

Laser treatments can cause some discomfort but they are considered to be effective and to a certain extent safer than other treatments. The results of laser treatment are long-term, greatly reducing the flushing episodes, dilated blood vessels, and redness caused by acne rosacea.

Fractional CO2 Laser Skin Resurfacing
At Dermaworks, perhaps the most effective treatment for acne rosacea is Fractional CO2 Laser Skin Resurfacing with Dermal Optical Thermolysis (DOT) Therapy. The procedure is performed using the SmartXide DOT™ CO2 laser system, which emits fractionated CO2 laser energy to vaporize the skin at a controlled depth.

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Hyperhidrosis

September 4th, 2009

sweat

The human body is fitted with its own cooling system. When body temperature reaches over the approximate ideal of 36.6 °C for whatever reason, sweat is released onto the skin so that it may evaporate, allowing the body to cool itself. Known as evaporative cooling, sweating prevents the body from overheating.

However, some individuals produce an excess of sweat beyond what is required to cool down. This is a medical condition known as hyperhidrosis, affecting close to 3% of the population. The entire body may be affected or specific areas, commonly the armpits (axillae), the hands and the feet.

Hyperhidrosis can be a socially debilitating condition that has profound negative effects on relationships, coupled with feelings of shame and humiliation.

How BOTOX® Treats Hyperhidrosis

Antiperspirants and deodorants  are not an effective way to control the condition. However, BOTOX® is.

BOTOX® for hyperhidrosis is a nonsurgical treatment that dramatically reduces the amount of sweat produced in a treated area by targeting the glands responsible. Results are temporary, lasting up to 7-8 months. It has been clinically proven to be a safe and effective solution for the underarm area, reducing the amount of sweating by a staggering 80%. When administered by a licensed medical professional, it will not prevent healthy thermoregulation of the body – it simply helps to reduce excessive sweating by limiting it to normal levels.

Results appear gradually, with the optimum effects of a session appearing within 2 weeks.

For more information about hyperhidrosis and treatment with BOTOX®, contact Dermaworks Medical Aesthetics Clinic.  Dr. Demetra Vassiliou, Chief Physician, performs every procedure at the clinic.

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