December 14th, 2009
There could be a few different reasons for continuous hair growth. One could be the type of Intense Pulse light or laser used in your treatment, and also the spacing of your treatments within your package. Intense Pulsed Light, which is very effective for many other treatments, doesn’t seem to produce the permanent hair removal results that we see from our laser, the Candela Gentlelase. Intense Pulsed Light systems and certain lasers do not deliver as much energy to the hair follicle as the Gentlelase can. We typically see about 90% permanent hair reduction after about 8 treatments. Our experienced technicians use a very effective laser, the Candela Gentlelase, and space your treatments according to your hair growth cycle, leaving you with the best results possible.
-Susan Carey, L.E.
Posted in Laser Hair Removal | No Comments »
July 7th, 2009
Thermage is not a permanent skin tightening treatment but results can last anywhere from 12-24 months after the initial treatment (duration varies from patient to patient). Because results will continue to improve for up to six months, it is not recommended to proceed with any additional Thermage treatments any earlier than a six-month time frame.
I have been doing Thermage for over three years and I think it is a wonderful non- invasive, no down time procedure. I believe that Thermage works for everyone, but the extent of the result is different for every patient. Thermage is good for anyone who is looking to tighten, tone and improve the contour of their skin. Sometimes, patients are referred to our plastic surgeon as surgery might be a better option, but Thermage is a good alternative for the person who is not quite ready for surgery, looking for no downtime, and who wants to slow down the aging process.
-Latoya Norman, C.M.A.
Posted in Thermage | No Comments »
June 11th, 2009
Dysport is a brand of Botulinum Toxin Type A, the same ingredient that is found in Botox. Though similar, they are not identical. Though we anticipate that Dysport will cost less per unit, one will likely require 2-3 times as many units to get the same result.
At this point we are not certain of any real differences but we have not heard of any red flags with its use. The hope is that now that Dysport is available, Allergan may choose to drop the price of Botox to compete. Dysport will start being dispensed in our office sometime in June after our experienced staff is trained by the manufacturer.
-Dawn Davidson, R.N.
Posted in Botox/Fillers, Dysport | No Comments »
May 22nd, 2009
Not necessarily, at Ritacca Laser Center we offer both surgical and non-surgical procedures to correct old and tired looking eyes. The best option for your condition will be determined at your private consultation with one of our cosmetic specialists. If you are not looking for surgery, a non-surgical eye lift can be achieved with a wrinkle relaxing treatment such as Botox, which is also good for lines between the eye brows, crow’s feet, and lines and wrinkles beneath the eyes. Injection of collagen or hyaluronic acid fillers will diminish appearance of sinking tear troughs and dark lines under the eyes. Chemical peels and a good skin care regime at home will also help you to create wrinkle free and refreshed looking eyes.
-Zhanna Wolfman, R.N.
Posted in Botox/Fillers | No Comments »
May 7th, 2009
After rigorous review, the FDA can offer a “reasonable assurance” that today’s silicone implants are “safe and effective,” said Donna-Bea Tillman, director of the FDA Office of Device Evaluation. Studies have found no association between silicone implants and cancer or other life-threatening diseases, although the FDA is continuing to monitor for these risks.
The FDA is also requiring each of the two manufacturers of silicone gel implants, Inamed Aesthetics and Mentor Corp., to study 40,000 women for 10 years to assess potential health problems. These studies will help answer questions on the implants’ long-term safety.
-Allan Parungao, M.D.
Posted in Silicone Breast Implants | No Comments »
April 20th, 2009
We offer a variety of very safe, effective peels for every skin type. Jessners peels are especially good for skin types 3 or higher. This specific peel is recommended for darker skin and will help to minimize pore size, help to even out skin tone and texture, and also help to clear up acne. Feel free to come in for a free consultation and I can provide a more customized recommendation.
-Gina Sepke, L.E.
Posted in Chemical Peels | No Comments »
April 14th, 2009
While prior collagen fillers have historically been associated with a short duration of results, the new collagen, Evolence, provides a natural and long-lasting collagen solution. Information from a U.S. clinical trial has proven that 97% of the patients maintained the effects through 6 months. Data gained from animal studies, foreign clinical studies and usage of Evolence in other countries has demonstrated duration for up to 12 months. Collagen should not be confused with hyaluronic acids, such as Restylane and Juvederm, which are non collagen dermal fillers and also long lasting.
-Dawn Davidson, R.N.
Posted in Collagen Injections | No Comments »
April 7th, 2009
Hi everyone. This is Gina, an esthetician here at the center. I’m really excited because I had my first DOT treatment a few weeks ago and I’m starting to see a beautiful texture change in my skin. The main reason for choosing the DOT was to minimize acne scarring that I’ve had on my cheeks for about 10 years. It was pretty easy. It took about 30 minutes and surprisingly, was not painful at all. I would definitely do this again. My skin will continue to change within the next few months so I’ll keep you all posted on my continued improvement.
-Gina Sepke, L.E.
Posted in DOT Skin Resurfacing | No Comments »
March 27th, 2009
Botox and fillers help maintain a youthful appearance 2 different ways. Fillers are natural, gel-like substances that correct wrinkles by adding volume around the muscle with injections. Botox is a solution that blocks the chemicals that cause facial muscles to contract, thereby relaxing them. While fillers instantly “fill” the wrinkle, Botox will help prevent existing wrinkles from becoming more pronounced and help prevent new wrinkles from developing.
If you are considering Botox or a facial filler for the correction of fine lines and wrinkles but are unsure which is right for you, call 847-367-8815 today to schedule your free professional consultation with me or one of our nurses. We will make customized recommendations based on your skin type and the results you are looking for.
-Daniel Ritacca, M.D.
Posted in Botox/Fillers | No Comments »
March 23rd, 2009
In November of 2008, Artes Medical, the manufacturer of Artefill, filed bankruptcy. While there may have been corporate reasons for this, the ArteFill product (despite its long-lasting or permanent effects) had some disadvantages compared to other dermal injectable fillers. For example, cosmetic treatments are a budget issue for many and the high initial cost, even if it lasts longer, eliminated much of the market potential. In addition, because it was not recommended for use in the lips, one of the most common uses for injectable fillers, another segment of the patient market was eliminated. These two factors narrowed the market potential for this ArteFill considerably. We were, however, very happy with the results of ArteFill and did not see any complications with use.
Artefill was the first permanent dermal filler FDA approved in the last decade, but for now, ArteFill remains unavailable for the foreseeable future. With similar outcomes, we also offer Silikon 1000 as a permanent dermal filler. Silikon 1000 has not been FDA approved for cosmetic purposes but in our hands has been shown to be safe and effective. Other FDA approved injectable dermal filler options are Restylane, Perlane, Juvederm, Evolence, Collagen, and Radiesse.
-Dawn Davidson, R.N.
Posted in Artefill | No Comments »
