We held our 'wetlab' training session here at SpaMedica on Tuesday 14th April - it was a hands on training session, enabling representatives and SpaMedica surgeons to network and test out state of the art operating techniques and procedures on live specimens.
Below you can see, some images from this event - for more information please visit the SpaMedica website www.spamedica.co.uk
We thought we'd share with you, some brand new images of SpaMedica - we've tried very hard to get the look and feel of the hospital just right. Patient comfort is paramount here along with safety and cleanliness.
Here are some new images of the hospital, we'd love to hear your feedback on them!
When British student Claudia Aderotimi died from a cheap, overseas ‘butt boost’ jab, the tragedy highlighted the dangers of seeking out discounted cosmetic surgery. It’s important to remember that operations such as a boob jobs, liposuction and facelifts can involve a major operation and lengthy recovery time. In a recent survey, it was estimated, Brits spent over £2 billion on cosmetic surgery in 2010 and there’s no reason why you shouldn't consider being one of these, just make sure you follow these guidelines: 1. Ask yourself why you want cosmetic surgery. Are you are doing it for the right reasons? 2. Choose a reputable and experienced cosmetic surgeon who you feel comfortable with. 3. Find a surgeon who you feel you can trust. It is important that you feel at ease with the surgeon as they will be with you every step of the procedure, so you need to feel supported before, during and after. 4. When you meet your surgeon make sure you are prepared. Take a list of questions and ask everything you can think of, including risks, complications, recovery and aftercare. Don’t be afraid to take notes , it’s an important decision that you need to be sure of. 5. If your surgeon refuses to do something, it is for a good reason. Respect and listen to your surgeon, he is thinking what is in your best interest. 6. Make sure you’ve done your homework – read all about the procedure in order to be fully informed. 7. Make sure the timing is right. If you have recently experienced stressful, emotional or life-changing events, you may want to avoid surgery until you have recovered emotionally. 8. Be realistic about your expectations. Cosmetic surgery can have an amazing affect on a person’s life, but it may not change other deep rooted body issues. 9. Talk about your surgery with someone. 10. Schedule yourself plenty of recovery time. Your body needs time to heal after any surgery, so book some time off and allow yourself to relax. For more information, please contact us
01. Am I a candidate for Microdermabrasion?
If you have or have had acne, discolorations, superficial lines and wrinkles, uneven texture or sun damaged skin -- you may be a candidate for Microdermabrasion. Microdermabrasion can not be expected to removed deep scars or wrinkles, birth marks or tattoos. If you have no history of hypo/hyper-pigmentation or keloid scarring in your family you should consider microdermabrasion as an alternative to a deeper invasive peel.
Q02. What is Microdermabrasion?
Microdermabrasion is a mini procedure that involves the skin being "sandblasted" by aluminum oxide crystals to remove the horny (top) layer of the skin; dead skin cells. And to promote the production of new cells in the basal (deepest) layer of the dermis. This procedure may not work for everyone but it works for me and Marc. It can clean your pores incredibly and hinder any future breaks outs if used on a regular basis. Microdermabrasion also stimulates collagen net working to further even out skin texture and appearance.
Q03. When is Microdermabrasion usually performed?
Microdermabrasion can be performed anytime, with sessions at 10 days apart from each other for best results. Although this procedure can nit be expected to remove serious sun damage. It is best for women to schedule this procedure in the first two weeks after their menstrual cycle as, the skin is more sensitive nearing and during this time.
Q04. What does a typical Microdermabrasion consultation entail?
There really is no consultation, per se. This is such a non-invasive mini procedure that the details can be explained in 5 minutes and the rewards for such a long period of time if a series is undergone.
Although maintenance sessions every few months should be sought.
Q05. How is Microdermabrasion performed?
A cleansing toner is applied to the skin to remove excess oils for better application and penetration. A self contained wand is manually passed over the skin in areas of damage or all over the face, which is usually the case. The machine delivers fine, sanitary aluminum oxide crystals to the face that "sand blasts" away dead skin and impurities. The procedure lasts about 20 to 30 minutes, depending upon the 'depth' or 'strength' of the peel.
Afterwards a cotton ball saturated with a soothing toner is passed over the face then a re-hydrating cream and sun block are applied.
Q06. What are the differences in the machines that perform Microdermabrasion?
There are all types of machines on the market today, although many of them are not high quality. A very dependable and high quality machine is available from a company called Power Peel. Power Peel is reportedly the originator of the machine and technique although many copy cat systems have risen on the market in the last year. Then again, I have heard that Derma Genesis is, as well. Who knows? Plus I really don't care. As long as it works, for a reasonable price.Many spas or salons have the cheaper variety, although dermatologists and plastic surgeons may have bought a cheaper model as well -- charging full price on a cheaper, less effective peel. I personally have used a system called Smart Peel.
Q07. What should I expect after Microdermabrasion?
You can expect to feel as if you have a mild sun burn or windburn. You skin will feel very dry and may peel. This is natural and is the purpose of the procedure. You should regularly apply a high quality moisturizer as well as a high protection sun block.
Do not expose your face to sunlight for long periods of time, not even tanning beds. You should not use any exfoliating scrubs or lotions beforehand or afterwards for at least 3 days. Your skin will be smoother and the damage will be lessened. Although for serious damage a series (of 4 to 6 sessions) can be scheduled at 5 day intervals. It truly depends upon your technician.
Q08. Does Microdermabrasion hurt?
Microdermabrasion does not hurt although it may sting a little around the eye area. The patient normally works up as they go to increase the penetration level. Your skin may feel a little hot and appear a little pink for the first day.
Q09. Will Microdermabrasion get rid of my fine lines, wrinkles and acne scars?
In most cases, yes. Although severe scarring will not be lessened in appearance with solely Microdermabrasion. Sometimes a regimen of Retin-A and or Glycolic treatments in conjunction with Microdermabrasion will increase your chances the best results possible.And quite frankly I'd undergo a skin care system like Obagi NuDerm with Retin A - 6 weeks to beautiful skin -- for cheaper! That's what I did and I must tell you that if I had the money I'd get microdermabrasion as a luxury but for removing your complaints, Obagi rocks!! But if you don't want to peel like a snake for 6 weeks then maybe Microdermabrasion is for you. Although it will take you MUCH longer to get the results of Obagi with Retin A.
Q10. Is there a lot of swelling involved with a Microdermabrasion?
It is extremely rare that you may swell at all after Microdermabrasion. This min procedure is so very un-invasive yet it really works with time. I noticed a difference after one treatment.
Q11. When can I return to work?
You can return to work immediately with the application of a little loose powder. You may choose to schedule this on your day off or at least after work. Many patients schedule it on their lunch break bat return with pink skin. There is no downtime per se, involved with Microdermabrasion.
Q12. When will I be able to see the results?
Results are often times, immediate. We're not talking life-altering results here, but a nice, clean, smooth feeling is apparent directly after. At least with a high quality machine. You will notice that your skin to be more even toned and textured. After the horny layer (dull dead skin cells) is removed you will notice an improvement overall. Especially after a series.
Q13. What are the risks of Microdermabrasion?
There are not many risks associated with microdermabrasion if you are a healthy adult, but enough to mention for those of you with skin or medical conditions. If the medical grade machines are used at high power it carries potential risks of hyperpigmentation, perforation, bleeding, and infection. Infection can also be a risk if the machines are not sterile. Many components of these machines are meant to be sterilized, autoclaved or changed out with a new disposable piece. Any and all pieces that come into contact with your skin should be able to be sterilized or changed out.
Also, you should NOT have a microdermabrasion treatment on the affected area if you have the following:
• Undiagnosed lesions
• Recent herpes outbreaks
• Warts
• Active, weeping acne (stages 3-4)
• Active Rosacea
• Unstable diabetes
• Auto-immune system disorders
• Some patients hyperpigment post-op. Lower pressures are used on follow-up treatments
• Using Retin A religiously or just had a chemical peel
• recently had laser surgery
Q14. Is there maintenance with Microdermabrasion?
Not really maintenance but it is best that you schedule a session every few months for general upkeep. I hardly consider that maintenance, by definition. You will not magically return to your former damaged skin tone condition although occasional sessions can only make it better.
Your skin needs an ideal skin pH of 5.5 to retain moisture. In order to help this, it is advised to make sure your products are suited to your skin by having the pH checked and tailoring your products accordingly.
This, as I'm sure are very aware, is one of the most important aspects of health out there. Skin is very open to damage from ultraviolet radiation, so you need to prtotect it. There is ultraviolet radiation in the atmosphere even when it is not sunny. UV radiation causes premature skin ageing and sometimes the effects are irreversible. Always incorporate a good sun screen in your skin care regime.
Low fat and calorie controlled diets can dull and age the skin. You need a certain amount of fat for the skin to remain healthy, repair itself, and retain moisture. Each eggs, oily fish and green vegetables in particular to get the right fats.
After a hard day, its often very tempting to spend those extra few minutes in the shower, but your facial skin is delicate and prolonged time in the shower can strip away essential oils. It is advised to only stay in hot water as long as needed in order to get 'clean', any longer can cause more damage.
When you drink alcohol, your capillaries dilate, and this can lead to broken veins appearing on your face. You also deplete your Vitamin A levels, which is a vital anti-oxidant, and helps maintain skin elasticity. Its not realistic to expect people not to drink, but the odd glass of water can help immensely. And moderation goes a long way to avoind problems much later on in life.
Your skin gives clues as to how healthy your body is on the inside. When your body is stressed, it releases the hormone cortisol, which is one of the worst ageing hormones. Take time to unwind after periods of excessive stress.
Avoid cleansing in a hurry with wipes. Cleansing is important to removed the build up of bacteria. So take your time when you cleanse. A good cleanser and some warm water on the face is usually enough and only takes a few more seconds than a wipe.
Your neck is part of your face, and a lot of people forget that. Make sure you apply the same products on your neck as well to keep the skin tone and firmness even.
"Glycation is a process where sugar in the bloodstream reacts with collagen in the skin and changes its structure from springy and stretchy to hard and brittle and can lead to premature skin ageing," said nutritionist Melanie Flower (natural-healthcare.net).
Avoid prolonged exposure to things like cigarette smoke as they can damage the skin and increase damage caused by UV radiation
Your body, and so your skin regenerates when you sleep, so give your skin a chance to produce new skin cells by treating yourself to enough shut eye. An average of 6 hours is advised in order to keep your body fully functioning.
The top 10 Cosmetic Surgery Trends predicted for 2011
Predictions are based on interviews with leading plastic surgeons around the country, who are actively involved in cutting edge surgical and non surgical aesthetic / cosmetic technology.
- As the economy continues to improve, demand for facelifts and other facial rejuvenation surgery will increase. Non-surgical facial rejuvenation procedures will also see some growth, but people who have been putting off surgery for the past few years because of the economy will be ready for the gold standard in facial rejuvenation in 2011.
- The growth and popularity of cosmetic injectables (Botox, Dysport, Sculptra, Radiesse, Evolence, Juvederm, Restylane, Perlane etc.) will continue to increase as products continue to evolve and new players enter the market.
- As our population increasingly realises the dangers and health consequences of obesity, the number of patients seeking plastic surgery procedures for body contouring after dramatic weight loss (abdominoplasty, lower body lift, upper arm lift, etc.) will rise in 2011.
- As the baby boomer generation continues to age, so do their breast implants. This year many baby boomer women who have aging implants and/or breast ptosis will replace their implants and have breast lifts.
- Consumers looking for a bargain on cosmetic procedures will unfortunately lead to an increase in horror stories about “discount injectables” bought offshore and cosmetic medicine and cosmetic surgical procedures performed by untrained or poorly trained practitioners.
- While liposuction (lipoplasty) will continue to be the gold-standard in fat reduction, there will be continued interest in experimental techniques for non-invasive fat removal (freezing, zapping, lasering, etc.) as a future alternative or adjunct to liposuction (lipoplasty) surgery.
- Aesthetic Medicine has seen a dramatic increase in the diversity of the patients treated over the past decade and this trend is expected to continue to grow stronger than ever, with applications that cater to all people. The appeal of both aesthetic surgery and cosmetic medicine will continue to spread across the spectrum of our population, as plastic surgeons further tailor treatments to meet the sometimes unique needs of that expanding population.
- As the popularity of non surgical and minimally invasive procedures continues to grow, surgeons and manufacturers will develop new techniques and products that advance the science, produce even better results and lessen recovery time.
- Celebrities like Kim Kardashian, Beyonce, and Jennifer Lopez have made a shapely rear-end a must have accessory. In the coming year patients will be seeking posterior body lifts, buttock lifts, surgical and nonsurgical buttock augmentations to shape and augment their buttocks.
- Following the trend in increased consumer sophistication patients will increasingly want to know if the latest procedure and device being touted on the internet and TV talk show really works and if it is safe. Safety will be a key message in 2011
spaMedica is a leading provider of medical and surgical patient services. We specialise in treatments of the skin and eye. Our hospitals are equipped with state of the art technology and our surgeons are leaders in their fields. Our mission is to provide the highest quality of care to our patients in a safe fashion, in a convenient location, in comfortable premises and ensure patient satisfaction is high.
We are fully compliant with the requirements of the regulatory bodies that monitor the standard of healthcare provision in the UK, including the Care Quality Commission.
