What exactly is BOTOX® treatment?

BOTOX® treatment is a purified protein produced by the Clostridium botulinum bacterium. It is a non-surgical, physician-administered treatment that can temporarily reduce moderate to severe frown lines between the brows. During treatment, very low doses of BOTOX® treatment are administered via a few tiny injections directly into the muscles that cause those stubborn lines. The treatment is usually done in about 10 minutes, and no recovery time is needed. Within days, you may see an improvement that can last up to 4 months. Results may vary.

 How does BOTOX® treatment work?

Those moderate to severe frown lines between your brows form over time as the result of muscle activity. BOTOX® treatment is injected directly into the muscles between your brows. It works by blocking the transmission of nerve impulses to the injected muscles; this reduces the activity of the muscles that cause those persistent lines to form.

 When will I see results from a BOTOX® treatment treatment?

Within days, you may see a marked improvement in the moderate to severe frown lines between your brows. Lines continue to improve for up to a month, and results can last for up to 4 months. In clinical trials, nearly 90% of men and women rated the improvement in their appearance as moderate to better 1 month after treatment. Results may vary.

 How long does BOTOX® treatment last?

Results from treatment with BOTOX® treatment can last for up to 4 months. If you discontinue treatment, the frown lines between your brows gradually will look like they did before treatment.

 Who should administer BOTOX® treatment?

Any authorized healthcare professional can administer BOTOX® treatment, but dermatologists, plastic surgeons, ophthalmologists, otolaryngologists (ear, nose, and throat doctors), or other physicians specializing in cosmetic procedures are generally more experienced. One of these physicians can help you decide if BOTOX® treatment is right for you.

 Is treatment with BOTOX® treatment painful?

Discomfort is usually minimal and brief. Prior to injecting, your physician may choose to numb the area with a cold pack or anesthetic cream. The entire procedure takes approximately 10 minutes. Many people return directly to work or normal activity following BOTOX® treatment treatment.

 Who should not use BOTOX® treatment?

BOTOX® treatment should not be used in the presence of infection at the proposed injection site(s) and in individuals with known hypersensitivity to any ingredient in the formulation. Patients with neurological disorders such as ALS, Myasthenia Gravis or Lambert-Eaton syndrome may be at increased risk of serious side effects.

 Will I experience any side effects?

The most common side effects include headache, respiratory infection, flu syndrome, temporary eyelid droop, and nausea. Less frequently occurring (<3%) adverse reactions include pain in the face, erythema at the injection site, and muscle weakness. These events are thought to be associated with the injection and occurred within the first week.

 Will my facial expressions continue to look natural?

Although the results are visible, a treatment with BOTOX® treatment will not radically change your facial appearance or make you look as if you "had work done." The muscle activity that causes frown lines between the brows is simply reduced, so you can still frown or look surprised without the wrinkles and creases between your brows.

 What will happen to the frown lines between my brows if I choose not to continue treatments?

If you do not continue treatments, the moderate to severe frown lines between your brows will gradually look like they did before treatment.

 Is BOTOX® treatment affordable?

When considering your facial aesthetic options, BOTOX® treatment is quite affordable. According to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery's 2003 survey, BOTOX® treatment is one of the least expensive facial aesthetic procedures in the United States. Like other appearance-related investments, such as hair coloring and cuts, teeth whitening, and chemical peels, the cost must be weighed relative to your expectations. Consult your doctor for further information.

 Do treatment results differ?

To get the best results, it's important to go to a doctor who is experienced in administering BOTOX® treatment.

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 What is Laserlipolysis?

Laserlipolysis is a revolutionary technique. It's a minimally invasive form of liposuction that works on pockets of fat on different parts of the body. It is a technique that destroys fat deposits in specific areas of the body. Using a special laser system to break down the membranes of fat cells, the fats are eliminated by the body in a most natural manner. This minimally invasive treatment facilitates body modelling and results give rise to a harmonious body shape in a short time, without the secondary effects of conventional or more aggressive procedures. It requires only local anesthesia therefore patient is comfortable and awake throughout the procedure.

 What happens in Laserlipolysis Procedures?

A small puncture is made on the skin of the area and a needle with a laser tip is inserted into the fat under the skin. The laser machine emits a long pulsed 1064 nanometer wave length, laser light which is transmitted to the tip of the needle. This laser energy then destroys the fat cell (adipocytes). The fat cells continue to be destroyed and release through the lymphatic and bowel systems over the next four months. This is why the result of the fat loss in the area is slow but sure.

 Who are suitable candidates for laserlipolysis?

It is for any one who has localized areas of fat that they are unhappy about. Such as love handles, flabbiness of the upper arms, abdominal fat, big thighs and flabby inner thighs. These are the suitable areas. Other areas that can be potentially done are the knee and ankles.

 Is it painful?

The whole procedure is done under local anesthesia and the pain is nothing more than the pain of the needle going in initially. The laser is then introduced into the subcutaneous fat layer. After the laser has lysed the fat, aspiration is performed to remove the lysed fat as possible, so that patients will be able to see the results much earlier. For the really nervous and frightened person who wish to feel no pain at all, general anesthesia given by a specialist anesthetist is available at affordable extra cost.

 Is there any danger or downside to laserlipolysis?

The background risk is similar to any other minor surgical procedure e.g. Infection, hemorrhage etc. A possible downside is fulfilling expectations. This is a minimally invasive procedure. It cannot achieve what traditional liposuction can achieve in one session. It is for those who do not really need traditional liposuction but who want to remove their stubborn pockets of fat which cannot go away in spite of diet and exercise.

 How long does the procedure take?

A laserlipolysis treatment on average takes approximately one hour depending on the size of treated area. Patients can undergo this treatment in doctors' clinics and even return to work after a lunchtime procedure.

 Which parts of the body can the procedure be performed?

Laserlipolysis is suitable for medium to slightly large sized individuals seeking a better body contour, and it does not replace traditional liposuction (for larger body types). It can also be performed on smaller areas like the forearms, upper part of the abdomen, face and knees.

 How quick will the recovery period take?

The patient can return to their normal activities almost immediately after the procedure although it is advisable to avoid strenuous sports, hot showers for 10 days, or intense massage for 4 - 5 weeks.

 Will I have bruises or scars after the procedure?

The after effects of bruising or swelling of the Laserlipolysis treatment is significantly reduced compared to other more invasive procedures. Due to the therapeutic effects of the laser, it coagulates the blood vessels immediately, which reduces trauma beneath the skin. The point of entry for the laser treatment is so small that it does not require any stitches; only surgical glue and plaster is required.

 When will I get to see results?

Some patients may see immediate results, with or without aspiration of excess fat. On average, most see the final results in about 2 - 3 months. There would be good improvement in the contour, regularity and contraction of the skin.

 How long does the result last?

Fat cells are destroyed through the laser system and fats are eliminated in a natural manner. Results are long term, giving rise to a harmonious silhouette. It is important to note, however, the treatment does not guarantee that one would not gain weight or accumulate fat deposits in other areas of the body.

Read more - LaserLipolysis

 How long does the treatment take?

A single procedure takes between 30 and 60 minutes and should be repeated at intervals of 1 to 2 weeks depending on skin type and condition. After the procedure, there is a slight blushing of the skin, which disappears within an hour.

 Is it painful?

Most patients report mild or no discomfort during the procedure. The settings are adjustable and we will perform the procedure at a level that is comfortable for the patient. Please let your aesthetician know if any treatment is too uncomfortable. Your skin may appear a little pink and be a little hot immediately following treatment.

 How soon will I see results?

Many patients experience softer, smoother glowing skin after the first treatment. The recommended treatment plan is between two and ten treatments, depending on the condition and type of your skin and the results desired.

 Can I combine Microdermabrasion with other procedures?

Yes. Microdermabrasion is the perfect compliment to other procedures including Laser Toning, BOTOX®, Intradermal BOTOX®.

Read more - Microdermabrasion

 Is it painful?

No. Some patients can experience a light tingling sensation near the injection site. It disappears within a matter of seconds. As a result of the increased circulation, the area surrounding the injection site may feel warmer for 10 to 20 minutes.

 How many sessions are necessary?

Between 15 sand 20 sessions are necessary to eliminate cellulite. Ideally they should be carried out every other day, although sometimes two or even one session per week will be enough. This will depend on the extent of your cellulite. Each session lasts between 10 to 15 minutes.

 How long before i see improvement?

After the 5th session you will see that your skin looks noticeably healthier. Around the 8-10 session mark, you will appreciate that your subcutaneous tissue is firmer. Before the treatment program ends you will have firmer, cellulite free skin.

 How long do the benefits last?

This depends entirely on you. If you choose to follow a healthy diet complemented by regular exercise, the cellulite can stay away for years. If you tend to succumb to culinary temptations and never quite find the time for that 10km run, the cellulite will return much quicker. On average, it'll be 5 to 6 months before you see it starting to creep back in. It's best to nip it in the bud at this stage. If you are vigilant 3 to 5 sessions will get you back to smooth firm skin.

 Isn't carbon dioxide toxic?

No. Carbon dioxide is naturally produced by the cells in our bodies every day of our life. It is a by product of metabolism. It is transported in the blood and exhaled through the lungs.

Until 1983, 402,000 patients had been treated in Royat. Only in 1994, 20,000 patients were treated. This number of patients, not only verifies the efficiency of the method but also its safety.

Read more - Carboxytherapy

 How long does the procedure take?

A single procedure takes between 10 and 15 minutes.

 Is it painful?

The treatment is painless and no Local Anesthetic is necessary. However, a light tingling sensation is felt because of the low electric current used.

 How many treatments are necessary?

For excellent result, we recommended Vitaimin C, Iontophoresis be combined with other facial rejuvenation procedures like Microdermabrasion, Laser Rejuvenation, Carboxytherapy etc. A course of 10 treatments done weekly is recommended. Removal of stubborn pigments and melasma may take up to 15 to 20 treatments.

Read more - Iontophoresis Treatment

 What is Acne?

Acne is a disorder resulting from the action of hormones on the skin's oil glands (sebaceous glands), which leads to plugged pores and outbreaks of lesions commonly called pimples or zits. Acne lesions usually occur on the face, neck, back, chest and shoulders. Nearly 17 million people in the United States have acne, making it the most common skin disease. Although acne is not a serious health threat, severe acne can lead to disfiguring, permanent scarring, which can be upsetting to people who are affected by the disorder.

 How Does Acne Develop?

Doctors describe acne as a disease of the pilosebaceous units (PSUs). Found over most of the body, PSUs consist of a sebaceous gland connected to a canal, called a follicle, that contains a fine hair. These unites are most numerous on the face, upper back, and chest. The sebaceous glands make an oily substance called sebum that normally empties onto the skin surface through the opening of the follicle, commonly called a pore. Cells called keratinocytes line the follicle. The hair, sebum, and keratinocytes that fill the narrow follicle may produce a plug, which is an early sign of acne. The plug prevents sebum form reaching the surface of the skin through a pore. The mixture of oil and cells allows bacteria that normally live on the skin to grow in the plugged follicles. These bacteria produce chemicals and enzymes and attract white blood cells that cause inflammation. (Inflammation is a characteristic reaction of tissues to disease or injury and is marked by four signs: swelling, redness, heat, and pain.) When the wall of the plugged follicle breaks down, it spills everything into the nearby skin-sebum, shed skin cells, and bacteria -leading to lesions or pimples.

 What Causes Acne?

The exact cause of acne is unknown, but doctors believe it results from several related factors. One important factor is an increase in hormones called androgens (male sex hormones). These increase in both boys and girls during puberty and cause the sebaceous glands to enlarge and make more sebum. Hormonal changes related to pregnancy or starting or stopping birth control pills can also cause acne.

Another factor is heredity or genetics. Researches believe that the tendency to develop acne can be inherited from parents. For example, studies have shown that many school-age boys with acne have a family history of the disorder. Certain drugs, including androgens and lithium, are known to cause acne. Greasy cosmetics may alter the cells of the follicles and make them stick together, producing a plug.

 Who Gets Acne?

People of all races and ages get acne. It is the most common in adolescents and young adults. Nearly 85 percent of people between ages of 12 and 24 develop the disorder. For most people, acne tends to go away by the time they reach their thirties; however, some people in their forties and fifties continue to have their skin problem.

 How Is Acne Treated?

The goals of treatment are to heal existing lesions, stop new lesions from forming, prevent scarring, and minimize the psychological stress and embarrassment caused by this disease. Drug treatment is aimed at reducing several problems that play a part in causing acne: abnormal clumping of cells in the follicles, increased oil production, bacteria, and inflammation. Depending on the extent of the person's acne, the doctor will recommend one of several over-the-counter (OTC) medicines or prescription medicines that are topical (applied to the skin) or systemic (taken by mouth). The doctor may suggest using more than one topical medicine or combining oral and topical medicines.

Read more - Acne

 I have had children and since then things aren't the same vaginally. My vagina isn't like it was before childbirth and sex isn't as gratifying as it was before. For me giving birth has resulted in vaginal enlargement with loose weak vaginal muscles. My vaginal muscle tone is poor and the support outside the vagina especially at the bottom is poor. I perform Kegels exercise everyday but this doesn't seem to help.

Many women have your exact same problem, share your self-conscious concerns and desire to enhance sexual gratification .Women are concerned about their sexual concerns, sexual needs and the procedures to enhance sexual gratification. Laser vaginal rejuvenation (LVR) is a modification of a standard gynecological procedure. The laser is used to perform precise aesthetic surgical incisions. The techniques that we have developed result in a relatively bloodless procedure done on an outpatient basis. In brief we will tighten the vaginal muscles and supporting tissues as well as reduce redundant vaginal mucosa. It will effectively reduce the internal and external vaginal diameters as well as build up the perineal body (The area outside the vagina up to the anus). According to Masters and Johnson, sexual gratification of the female is directly related to the amount of frictional forces generated. We can tighten the vagina thus increasing the amount of frictional forces generated. The procedure can also provide an aesthetic enhancement of the external vaginal structures resulting in a more youthful look.

As with all our surgical procedures, you are an integral part of our team and we listen to you and abide by your wishes. In this procedure the women decides how tight she wants to be.

 I have had several children. I have vaginal relaxation and I leak urine when I laugh, cough, sneeze or exercise. This problem has really impacted my life. It is socially embarrassing and hygienically unacceptable. Can I correct my urinary problem an enhance sexual gratification all at once?

Your urinary problem is called stress incontinence. It is caused by relaxation of the top part of the vagina or anterior vaginal wall. Laser vaginal rejuvenation (LVR) can correct your problem with stress incontinence and enhance sexual gratification all at once.

 How long does LVR take?

The surgical time depends on the extent but in general about 2 hours.

 Where is the surgery performed?

The surgery is performed at Parkway Aesthetic Clinic at Parkway Parade in Singapore. We have full operating theatre facilities with recovery beds with monitoring for up to 3 patients.

 I have vaginal relaxation of the bottom part of the vagina and the perineal body . Can I have LVR?

In this case we only need to repair the bottom part of the vagina and the perineal body (the area between the vagina and rectum). Usually in this case, vaginal relaxation is less extensive and LVR will be of benefit to you.

 I haven't had any children but I have some vaginal relaxation and I would like to enhance vaginal muscle tone and strength as well as decrease the vaginal diameter. Can I have the procedure?

Depending on the examination you can be a candidate for LVR. Such procedures generally involve the bottom part of the vagina and the perineal body.

 My inner vaginal lips are too long. Can I get the reduced in size?

The labia can be aesthetically sculptured to your specifications using laser reduction labiaplasty.

 What types of anesthesia are available?

You can be provided by your choice of anesthesia by a qualified anesthetist. We generally use intravenous sedation with a pudendal block and lots of tumescent anesthesia.

 When can I resume sex after the operation?

We ask that you resume sex 6 weeks after the operation. Oral sex, however can be resumed much earlier.

 When can I return to work after the operation?

This will depend on what type of work you do. In general most patients can return to work after one week but we can give 2 weeks medical leave.

 I am not from Singapore. How long do I have to stay in Singapore after the operation?

We request that you stay for a minimum of 4 days. We will visit you in the hotel after the operation so you don't have to come to the clinic.

 How much discomfort will I have after the operation?

With our technique of submucus tumescent anesthesia, pudendal block with long acting local anesthesia, you will be pain free for 18 to 24 hours. After this patients report a mild to moderate discomfort which can be controlled with analgesics and cold packs.

 How much does LVR cost?

Fees are all inclusive and this will include surgical fees, anesthetist fees, theatre fees, assistant fees and post op visits. The fees depend on the type of procedure and the extent. A fee range is provided once we know your particular needs. We accept major credit cards and some of the procedures can be claimed by insurance. Medisave deduction is also possible.

 What are the surgical risks of LVR?

LVR is a safe procedure with low risk. To put the risk in perspective, pregnancy is associated with far more risks than any of the surgical procedures. Like any surgery the risks are bleeding and infection. There is always a risk of injury to the bladder and rectum. This is very rare. With any surgery , there is always scaring. Over correction can result in painful sex. Although rare, anesthetic risks can also occur.

 Can LVR be combine with DLV?

Yes , the two can be combined. If you want liposuction, that can also be combined.

Read more about - Laser Vaginal Rejuvenation