Injectables, do different generations want different things?

Generational Differences in Aesthetics

Generations are collections of people living at the same time or an average time span (approx 20-30 years) during which people are born, grow to adulthood and have children of their own. There are varying differences and similarities between generations and this is something that must be considered when treating a patient. 

The generation conversation; what are each of these sets of humans like? What do they like? What do they want from life? How do they respond to different things within culture and lifestyle? How does each generation differ? If a patient walks in to our clinic this is all relevant in our assessment into their expectation and requirements. 

	Born	Ages
Gen Z	1997 – 2012	10 – 25
Millennials	1981 – 1996	26 – 41
Gen X	1965 – 1980	42 – 57
Boomers II	1955 – 1964	58 – 67

Millennials are the dominant generation within today’s workforce. For them technology is part of life, they are more open to change, they are full of information and confidence. They’re diverse, and their tendencies lean towards branded goods such as Nike or Apple for example. They eat out, they’re on Instagram, YouTube, Tik Tok. They’re influencers but they’re everyday people that create a following of thousands of other every day people. These kind of Millennials are more influential to other’s spending behaviour than celebrities are due to the fact that they’re accessible. You can message a millennial on social media and they will get back to you. A celebrity will not. 

Boomers are the type of people who expect to be told what is the right thing to do, not go out and invent that for themselves. They will believe in what they are told and comply. Whereas Generation X will prefer to make their own choices, they want to be given options. They prefer to be educated on something and then make their decision. They are busy looking after their parents, children and themselves. They want information and in the quickest form possible. If they had surgery for example, they would want clear instruction on what to do next. 

There are many notable differences and similarities between generations seeking or considering aesthetic or cosmetic treatments. The attitude they have towards treatments, their age at the time of the chosen procedure, the expectations they have for the outcome, their belief in the procedures, as well as the reasons behind their choices. Another big factor for generational choices are differences in lifestyle, online presence, tendencies and association, social media activity, spending habits, accessibility. 

One study carried out recently based on varied age groups ranging from 18-29 (represents Gen Z) 30-44 (represents Milennials), 45-59 (represents Gen X), 60+ (represents second generation Boomers) looked at their viewpoint and position on aesthetics such as injectables, dermal fillers, etc. It showed that younger generations take less time in making the decision to go ahead with treatments, whereas older people, (generally over 60s) took much more time to deliberate. Also when it came to cosmetic injections (muscle relaxants, neuromodulators) the study showed that the younger groups were having the treatment far more than the older ones - in fact the over 60s were the group using the least. With fillers the gap was even bigger, with very few 45 to over 60 year olds having them compared to the younger groups. The over 60s also seemed to be the least concerned about their appearance - the rest of the groups, we can assume, being more focussed on their looks, and those in their later years more accustomed to, and accepting of, the aging process. 

Dr. Gabriela Casabona from Ocean Clinic Marbella discovered that, after studying over 1,500 people through three generations, all the generations had some things in common when it come to aesthetic, cosmetic treatments. All wanted natural results.  All generations wanted to maintain their own looks, they didn’t want to be altered so they look too different or unlike their true selves. Out of the study group she found that all participants were aware and knowledgeable of the procedures, they were all willing to participate, and they were all in the know and believe in their efficacy, but all had something else in common; they were afraid. 

Not of the procedures themselves but the doctor. The people who carry out that procedure, the ‘what-ifs’. This is the reason that it is vital that a doctor be approachable, that hey have empathy, they show that they truly understand their patient’s needs. This is so important because that patient is afraid that they will not understand what they mean, what they are really asking for, what they really want out of this situation, and being unable to communicate this properly. People are afraid of the wrong outcome no matter what generation they come from. All people within the study group preferred the natural beauty they already own to be enhanced so the important thing for the doctor is the step-by-step approach to each individual, independent of their generation. 

So, all generations are very different, yet all have their similarities when it comes down to opting for aesthetic treatments. 

For more information on our aesthetic department and full range of services visit us at Ocean Clinic Marbella or contact us today.  

What are vein viewers, and why are they the next big tech for facial injections?

Using vein-viewer technology to reduce bruising during facial injections.

One of the most alluring sides of cosmetic facial rejuvenation is that there is minimal risk, minimal downtime (practically none in fact), the procedures are minimally invasive and produce great results, fast. For these reasons there is a continual surge in demand for treatments such as dermal fillers, and cosmetic injections. However, even the most experienced practitioners can sometimes cause bruising after applying such injectables which can negate that feeling of immediate recovery and perhaps result in a less satisfied customer. Bruising during facial injections is commonplace and relates directly to the injection itself rather than the substance being injected. When vessels are ruptured this causes bruising. It is the administering of the treatments that makes this happen and so dermal filler injections and neuromodulator injections can be challenging for doctors due to the number of facial arteries. Why use a vein viewer? The multiple, complex anatomy of the face makes it hard to know exactly where an artery its branches are situated by eye alone. It is important to avoid arteries, or their branches, as if they become blocked this can obstruct the oxygenated blood supply to the skin and cause potential harm. If there is bruising during such treatments it can also reduce the effectivity of the procedure itself. Treating the nasolabial folds, for example, is one of the higher risk areas of the face due to the direct path to the eye from the injection site. To outline the hidden veins and arteries massively increases the safety of applying dermal fillers to this area. To help prevent this occurring there are various tools on the market which can illuminate the vein and artery networks beneath the skin in the area that will be treated. These machines help to reduce bruising during injections such as cosmetic fillers or muscle relaxants. How does a vein viewer work? The patient’s skin is used as a screen of sorts. The machine displays an LED light over the section of the skin being treated, which highlights the veins under the skin - this provides a map in order to avoid the veins and therefore limit bruising. The light, absorbed by the haemoglobin and reflected by surrounding tissue, allows the practitioner to inject without any blood spots appearing. Avoiding the veins themselves means avoiding any blood being released during procedures such as injecting muscle relaxants or neuromodulators. There are no heat or radiation issues so the machinery is deemed very safe. The vein viewer is also considered, by doctors, to be a good tool to make your plan for a breast augmentation, to analyse each patient individually and know their specific design. It significantly increases safety and reduces haematoma. It is also thought to be good for fat transfer procedures. Are there different types of vein viewers? There are many different types of vein viewing technology on the market, each designed with a specific role or varying illumination area. Some pinpoint smaller more intricate areas of the body, others can map out a larger section of the skin. Some have stands so that the doctor can be hands free whilst using the machine. The practitioner/surgeon/doctor/dermatologist will have elected the appropriate machinery for the treatment in question designed to enhance safety and limit bruising or skin damage. Bottom line… In conclusion a vein locater can help to improve the safety of dermal filler injections as well as other cosmetic injections and aid in the prevention of bruising by giving visual access to veins which otherwise cannot be seen with the naked eye. Vein illumination will likely become standard practice for minimally invasive rejuvenation

Want to fix sagging eyelids? Let's consider Injectables or brow lift surgery...

If you are suffering with sagging, heavy eyelids, or that your eyebrows are feeling the effects of gravity, and want to take action against these signs of aging, you have options! 

You can restore your brow to a more youthful position using either surgical or non-surgical methods, or indeed, a combination of the two. 

Let's consider the options...

What is a Surgical Brow Lift?

A brow lift, or forehead lift, is often performed in combination with a facelift or upper eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty), but it can be performed on its own. A brow lift involves the lifting and tightening of the forehead and surgical removal of any excess skin.

At Ocean Clinic Marbella we use two different methods to carry out a brow lift; the first is the direct excision brow lift, which involves portions of skin removed from directly above the eyebrows. The incisions are hidden within the hairline of the eyebrow. This surgically raises the eyebrows and the upper eyelids, in order to “open up” the eyes.

The second technique is called a temporal lift. This involves incisions made in the hairline near the temples.  As the procedure is carried out endoscopically, it is less invasive than the brow lift but it only lifts the outer tail of the brow. This technique helps to correct hooded eyelids and smooth crow’s feet, but won’t be as effective for a very heavy brow since it doesn’t alter the middle of the brow or forehead area.

The method we choose depends on individual factors such as your age, skin quality, the severity of sagging and whether you’re suffering from any asymmetry. We will assess your facial anatomy and bone structure to ensure your brows are placed in a natural, more youthful position. 

Both brow lifting procedures can be performed under local anaesthetic with sedation and you can return home the same day. The operation is safe, down time and recovery is rapid, although you may have experience some bruising and swelling. Scarring will fade within a few months.

The result of a brow lift is long-lasting, however, due to the nature of human aging, your skin will still lose elasticity as you get older, meaning it won’t last forever.

What is a Non-Surgical Brow Lift?

A non-surgical brow lift is performed using cosmetic injectable muscle relaxants. The muscle relaxant is injected into the orbicularis oculi muscle that surrounds the eye. By relaxing this muscle, downward force is released, allowing the forehead muscles to pull upwards and therefore elevate the eyebrows. This can also apply to the lateral brow (not the central brow) - using Ulthera we can stimulate the contraction of fibers of the fascia on top of the muscle which elevates the brow.  

Placing injections (Ulthera) at the ends of the eyebrows (lateral brow, not central) causes the fibers in the fascia on top of the muslce to contract and elevate the tail of the eyebrow which can help correct the sagging of the upper eyelids and leave you looking fresher and more awake.

This treatment is very straightforward, can be carried out in a matter of minutes, and requires no downtime. The results, compared to surgical brow lifts, are more subtle and much less permanent. The results typically lasts between three to six months (depending on the individual) after which, the muscle action returns and the brow will resume its previous position. Fillers can also be added to the posterior superior temples as well as forehead in order to reinflate the area and therefore create a lifted brow.  

Surgical or Non-Surgical Brow Lift - Which one is for you?

The procedure you choose will depend on your age, the severity of sagging, your expectations for the outcome, as well as budget. Drooping brows typically becomes apparent in our late thirties, although a low brow can be hereditary so it can also be seen in younger patients.

If you are only displaying early signs of skin laxity, injectables can be an effective treatment and may delay the need for surgery. In combination with the effect the injectable has on relieving forehead lines, crow’s feet and lines between the eyebrows, it can considerably freshen up a face. 

You might wish to experiment with the cosmetic injection and, if you like the results, opt for an endoscopic temporal lift in order to make the changes permanent. Injections need repeating several times a year and, while it’s considerably cheaper than a surgical brow lift, these costs clock up quickly. This can make surgery better value for money in the long run.

For older patients, with deep furrows in the forehead, pronounced eye hooding or a low-set brow, more extensive surgery is recommended since the results of cosmetic injection or an endoscopic temporal lift will be minimal. On the other hand, the result of an excision brow lift can be dramatic - you’ll no longer look tired or angry and it can take years off your appearance. 

For a full assessment of your forehead, brow and upper eyelids, make an appointment for a consultation with one of our highly experienced practitioners or surgeons. 

Want a facelift without the surgery?

If you're feeling like it is time to do something about the appearance of aging yet surgery is not something you're at ease with, how about looking into this non-surgical option? 

A Micro fat transfer offers a real alternative for facial rejuvenation without the need for any invasive surgery, and it’s suitable for both men and women. 

What is micro fat transfer?

Micro fat transfer is the process of grafting fat to the face using a micro injection technique. This approach allows small droplets of fat to be placed with extreme precision. The fat is carefully layered to restore volume in areas where it has been lost.

Grafting the fat in small quantities allows the surgeon to contour the face like an artist shaping clay. Fat can be placed exactly to plump out lines and wrinkles, and added bit by bit in delicate areas such as under the eye. Not only does this provide a better aesthetic result, but it also maximises the odds that the transplanted fat will gain a blood supply and become permanent tissue. 

Is micro fat transfer different to facial fillers?

With micro fat transfer, the fat is added very precisely, drop by drop, requiring a high level of skill. Volume is slowly built up until an optimal level is achieved, avoiding an “over-filled” look and a completely natural looking result.

In addition to this the material being used as a filler - your own body fat - is completely natural. It behaves naturally, with the correct texture and movement and avoids adding anything foreign or synthetic to your body; it’s simply a case of restoring fat to the areas where it used to be.  

Another major benefit to using transplanted fat over cosmetic fillers is that it’s a permanent solution. Whereas fillers are reabsorbed by the body and need to be repeated every 9-18 months, transplanted fat remains. It only diminishes with the natural ageing process. 

Am I a good candidate for micro fat transfer?

Volume loss is one of the earliest signs of ageing, usually beginning in our thirties. As this loss of volume continues, the face becomes thinner and the skin starts to loosen and sag. Imagine removing stuffing from a cushion; as the volume inside the cushion decreases, the fabric becomes lax and starts to wrinkle.  

The fat pads in our face are just like cushions and give us that soft, youthful fullness. The loss of these fat pads is the main reason we start to look older. It’s something we’ve only come to understand quite recently - and it means that we can start fending off the signs of ageing earlier than before.

Previously, a person might have waited until they had significant skin laxity, say in their sixties, to tackle the problem. A full facelift would be performed to tighten the skin, easing the appearance of wrinkling but nothing would be done to restore lost volume. Hence, the facelifts of yesteryear often looked somewhat unnatural. 

Now, a surgeon is able to assess a patient’s face to see where volume loss has occurred - and the knock-on effect that’s having. As soon as volume loss begins to occur, it can be “topped up” with fat taken from elsewhere on the body. This makes it a suitable treatment for younger people.

With that said, even more advanced volume loss can be treated with fat grafting. Older patients who don’t want a facelift can still see significant improvements when treated with transplanted fat alone. Meanwhile, older patients who combine surgical skin lifting with micro fat transfer can see incredible results. At Ocean Clinic, all our facelifts also include fat grafting. 

What areas can be treated with micro fat transfer?

Most commonly, fat loss starts in the cheeks and temples and this is when gravity begins to take effect, pulling everything else downwards. Restoring fat to these regions can help to pull the lower face back up into place. Fat can also be used to treat:

• Thinning lips 

• “Smokers’ lines” around the lips

• Nasolabial folds or “marionette lines”

• Hollows under the eye

• Lack of definition around the jawline

When done throughout the entire face, it can restore a youthful roundness and make a person look younger, healthier and more energetic. 

How is micro fat transfer carried out?

The procedure is most commonly performed under local anaesthesia with light sedation. This means you don’t need to stay overnight in the clinic and eliminates the risk of general anaesthesia, which is often a concern for older patients.

A gentle liposuction technique is used to remove the fat from the donor site, which would usually be somewhere we typically store fat, like the tummy, “love handles” or “muffin tops”. To prepare the fat for transfer, we use a centrifuge, separating the fat from the oil, water and blood. 

The fat is placed into multiple syringes and then injected in the desired portion of the face. It’s built up layer by layer, until the perfect plumpness is achieved. Other than a very small incision at the fat harvesting site, no incisions are made in the face. 

How long is the recovery from micro fat transfer?

Patients who have had micro fat transfer can go home the same day with little discomfort and essentially no downtime. You’re usually able to return to work the following day, although we recommend taking some time off if you can as you may experience some bruising and swelling around the injection sites. 

Likewise, you’ll have some tenderness around the donor area and will need to wear compression bandages. Patients usually return to normal activity within a week to 10 days and the final result is seen a month after the treatment.

Want a facial assessment with a surgeon to see what micro fat transfer could do for you? Contact Ocean Clinic for an appointment.

What is the recovery like from Liposuction?

 

Recovering from Liposuction: all you need to know...

As one of the most popular cosmetic surgeries worldwide, Liposuction is performed thousands of times a year in Europe. Anyone considering liposuction must absolutely see a board-certified plastic surgeon, research the procedure and know what to expect from the surgery before going ahead. Liposuction should be something that will bring you body-confidence, in a safe and effective manner. It is a straightforward procedure with fairly low recovery time but it still involves major surgery and so it is vital to know how to prepare and manage this. Here we cover the post-op recovery outline for patients to keep in mind if considering liposuction.  

What is liposuction?

Liposuction is a body contouring, surgical procedure performed in order to permanently remove fat cells from certain areas of the body. At Ocean Clinic we use Water-Jet Assisted Liposuction (WAL) as it is a more gentle technique which helps to minimise swelling and bruising, pain, irritation and damage to blood vessels. 

Common areas for liposuction include: 

• abdomen

• hips

• buttocks

• thighs

Immediately after surgery and a few hours later you should experience some soreness. This can be reduced by encouraging blood circulation, so getting up and walking around gently is encouraged. 

 

Liposuction Recovery : Days 1 - 7

Pain Management

There will be some discomfort over the first few days after having had liposuction and there may well be prescribed medication to take to manage this as well as any swelling. This will all be outlined by your doctor for your individual case. 

Healing Aids

Compression garments are worn in order to aid swelling reduction as well as keeping everything in its new place. This should be worn as much as possible (not when bathing) or as instructed by your surgeon. Any incisions and drains will also need attention which your doctor will outline for you. 

Rest and Recuperation

Rest is imperative during these days to allow your body to recuperate, adjust to its new form and allow everything to settle. Asking a friend or family member to help to do the regular day-to-day would be advised to ensure you encourage the healing process effectively, though you may be able to manage light household activities, desk work, showering and driving at around 24hrs post op. 

Liposuction Recovery : Weeks 1 - 2 

At roughly the one week mark you should be feeling fit and able to return to ‘normal’ working life if this entails an office-type position. If work entails physical labour, this may not be advisable for about one more week. Your doctor can assess your individual recovery speed; this is just a general guideline. Your recovery garment should still be worn to ensure optimum results, as well as a more rapid recovery. 

Pain, swelling, discomfort and any soreness should be greatly reduced in most patients by the end of the first week or two. You could also opt for lymphatic massage at this point, to aid with the swelling.

Liposuction Recovery : Month 1 - 2 

There should be no more pain or discomfort at all during this period of your recovery, although there may be slight swelling or bruising at any surgical sites, though these ought to be minimal by now if present. This is the time that your results should be shining through, although try to be patient if you are still experiencing any swelling, it varies from person to person. Light exercise can now be entertained with caution, and do speak to your doctor before embarking on any intense activities. 

Liposuction Recovery : Month 2 + 

From this point on you should be, or start to be, feeling fully recovered and your final results should be emerging. The compression garment can now be discarded even if you are still experiencing slight swelling; again, speak to your doctor for individual assurance. Exercise can now resume as normal. 

Be aware of your body, how you feel and pay close attention to your surgeon’s advice, have patience if you feel your recovery is taking longer than you hoped and allow your body to take the time it needs to adjust to its new shape and size. 

Talk to us! 

Contact our expert team of professionals HERE for a consultation or any further information on Liposuction.  

 What is the role of the new trend in aesthetics; Biostimulators?

 A central topic of conversation surrounding anti-aging medicine often falls under the collagen umbrella. As we age, the natural production of collagen within the body reduces and results in a loss of structure and elasticity. This lack of volume causes skin laxity making it sag, wrinkle and, basically, age. A new trend in the aesthetic world, that fits right in this conversation, comes in the form of the increasingly popular, biostimulators. 

What are biostimulator injections?

Elastin and collagen are the ‘scaffolding’ of the face and as they diminish with age, we lose structure and elasticity. Biostimulators are a breakthrough in aesthetic medicine, which naturally encourage the production of collagen. 

Biocompatible synthetic stimulants are injected beneath the surface of the skin and serve to restore volume, thus rejuvenating and improving skin quality and appearance. 

The injectables function by stimulating the production of the body’s natural fibroblast - cells which create collagen and elastin. 

Once the cycle is complete and the collagen production has occurred (along with all components of the  extracellular matrix) the biodegradable synthetic substances are then naturally absorbed by the body. 

Who benefits from biostimulator injections? 

Anyone!! From Millennials looking for rejuvenation and throughout all generations, (especially those looking to improve the lack of tension in the skin and deeper tissue in their face or body) can benefit from biostimulators. They are suitable for all ages yet the older the person, or more severe the case, the more product they may need.

The results of biostimulators leave the patient with more youthful looking skin - wrinkles, fine lines and folds of skin are improved and potentially acne scars reduced. In the body it is especially good for laxity related to skin deficiencies, e.g. cellulite, folds and wrinkles. 

Who cannot have biostimulator injections?

Biostimulators are not suitable for people during pregnancy or whilst breast feeding or for those with specific allergies, bleeding disorders  autoimmune disorders such as Lupus, prone to keloid formation, active acne, infection, (all to be discussed with your practitioner prior to treatment).

Do Biostimulators differ from dermal fillers? 

Biostimulators can offer an alternative to dermal fillers or work in combination with them, and other anti-aging treatments, depending on the severity of the individual case. Often biostimulators are used alone, or in combination with other treatments (dermal fillers, fat grafting, toxin injections, Ultherapy, microneedling, CO2), in the temples, jowls, and cheeks, jawline, lower cheeks, neck and chest (decolettage) to create volume - to fill, lift and rejuvenate. In the body they are used to create a smoother effect with improvement in the tension of the skin and below the skin. 

How do biostimulators work?

The injectable synthetic partyicles react by causing both a biomechanical and chemical effect under the skin. Because of this reaction the body is triggered to regenerate tissue in three pillars; collagen, elastin neovessels and a balanced extracellular matrix. This happens by the fibroblasts , that have surrounded the newly injected crystals, recruiting other fibroblasts to produce collagen. This three pillar stimulation  increases over time and improves the volume of the dermis, epidermis and also gives a stronger connection with deeper tissue, over the course of 3 months post injection. 

What to know before having Biostimulator injections…

• There is zero recovery time needed. 
• The treatment is quick and can be achieved in a short time over a few sessions depending on the expected/desired outcome. 
• There is minimal discomfort experienced during or after the treatment. 
• Mild swelling and/or bruising may be experienced. 
• Local/topical anaesthetic is used to avoid any pain. 

How many sessions will I need?

This ultimately depends on the individual, the severity of their situation, their expectations and desired outcome. This is also affected by whether or not they are receiving a combination of treatments or the biostimulators alone. Some may only need one session and others perhaps three of four (spread out a month apart) depending on their unique case. 

How long do the results of biostimulators last?

The length of time the injections last again depends on the individual, but results can last as long as 1-3 years. Booster injections can be applied to maintain and optimise the longevity of results. 

Results are also dependant on whether the biostimulators were applied in combination with other treatments which may last for more or less time, as well as lifestyle choices, age, skin quality, etc.

Generally the outcome will be evident weeks or months after treatment, depending on the individual, and can last for two years or more as the collagen stimulation continues for months. 

What To Expect After Treatment?

As mentioned you may experience mild swelling, bruising, or redness but often there are no noticeable signs at all immediately after the treatment. The results themselves will take time to develop, depending on the individual - between weeks and months. Usually you can begin to see a difference a few weeks after the treatment as the collagen production is stimulated and gradually occurs. 

You can resume normal life straight away. 

What are the risks with Biostimulator Injections?

Biostimulators are an extremely low-risk treatment however some of the following may occur in some cases: 

• Swelling
• Redness
• Itching
• Discolouration
• Bruising
• Injection site tenderness
• Small nodules under the skin

These reactions are generally very mild and resolve within a maximum of 7 days. Any initial swelling (due to the suspension containing water) should reduce within a couple of hours, but can be noticeable for up to 2 days. This is a temporary reaction which doesn’t affect in the long term. 

The injected areas can feel fuller and thicker, a gentle self-massaging of the area can reduce this - a few minutes a few times a day for a few days should do it. 

What does having Biostimulator injections involve?

Once you have been for a consultation and deemed suitable for biostimulator injections your practitioner will outline the areas to be treated and how. Your expectations will be assessed alongside your skin quality, the severity of the problem and whether or not a combination of treatments is advisable. 

You will undergo a full facial and/or body assessment where the practitioner will consider the depth and placement areas for the injections. This all depends on the desired outcome, and unique individual case, as to the amount of product and where and how it will be administered. For example, for tightening the skin the injections are more superficial, but for volumisation the injections would go a little deeper under the skin. 

The results of biostimulator injections depend heavily on age, skin quality, skin laxity, technique and the amount of product and its placement (as well as if it is used in combination with other procedures). 

Please contact Ocean Clinic Marbella for a consultation or more information on our biostimulator injections and methods.