Let science select your ideal skincare routine - a breakthrough in genetic testing

 

Genetic skin testing has arrived at Ocean Clinic Marbella. We can now use a patient’s DNA to determine their predisposition to ageing – and understand the best way to prevent it.

The global skincare market is worth a massive $115 billion – visit any beauty counter and you will be overwhelmed by the selection of creams and serums each boasting different active ingredients and promising to reduce the signs of aging. How do you know which to choose? Will a €100 cream be more effective than one costing €10?

With personalised DNA testing we are, for the first time, able to scientifically tailor a unique regime specifically to you. This allows you to advance beyond the 'one-size-fits-all' suggestions - using the right skincare ingredients targeted to your own genetic blueprint.

How does it work?

Taking the DNA test is simple. A swab of saliva is taken from the inside of your cheek, which is then sent away for processing in the laboratory. The results will be returned within 7-10 days, at which point you will return to Ocean Clinic Marbella to discuss the outcome.

What does the test check for?

The test checks for two core things; collagen production and breakdown, and the skin’s natural solar protection level. These are the two main factors which dictate how our skin will wrinkle, sag and blotch over time.

Collagen test

Collagen is the principle structural protein of the skin, responsible for keeping it firm, plump and wrinkle-free. One in three people have a genetic variation that predisposes their skin to accelerated collagen breakdown. The test will identify if you are a carrier of this variation - even before the signs have become visible.

Solar protection test

In addition to collagen levels, the test will look at how well your skin can cope naturally under the strains of the sun. Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light from the sun accounts for 90% of the symptoms of early skin aging.

Our genes play an important role in determining how well our skin can handle exposure to the sun - 2 in 5 people have a genetic variation that affects their skin's UV defences. DNA testing can reveal if your skin has a greater or lesser natural genetic solar protection factor (gSPF™).

Why would you want to know?

It might sound quite depressing to discover that your skin is ageing more rapidly than it should be, however early warning enables you to take preventative action.

The good news is your genetic destiny is not actually set in stone. For example, if a patient is at increased risk of collagen breakdown, it does not necessarily mean that they will definitely come across this problem in later years.

Utilising skincare ingredients that precision-target your genetic weaknesses along with making lifestyle changes can prevent deterioration before it even sets in.

What changes can you make?

Your personalised report will advise on the most suitable skincare ingredients based on your DNA. Fortunately today we have access to a huge range of ingredients, including those that are capable of slowing down collagen breakdown, sun damage, oxidation, glycation and inflammation. It’s just a matter of knowing which ingredients are best suited for each individual’s gene type to help tackle their skin aging problems.

Meanwhile, there are various changes that can be made to your diet and lifestyle, such as eating collagen-rich foods, taking supplements, giving up smoking, cutting back on alcohol and caffeine and avoiding exposure to the sun. Your doctor will help you devise a plan to combat future deterioration of your skin.

How accurate is the test?

The test is 99.96% scientifically accurate and you will never need to take the test again in the future, as your genes will never change. This is a once in a lifetime investment that will ensure you never waste another euro on ineffective products and treatments.

I already have wrinkles is there any point in me taking the test?

While we may not be able to reverse the effects of aging, we can prevent them from accelerating further. No matter what age you are, it is never too late to focus on the future health of your skin

Genetic skin testing at Ocean Clinic Marbella costs €500. To find out more about how to take your skincare regime to the next level, call us on (+34) 951 775 518.

Get Your Sparkle Back with a ‘Mummy Makeover’

Pregnancy and birth takes its toll on the body. Sometimes, no matter how well you eat or how much exercise you do it is simply not possible to restore the body to its pre-baby shape. 

For many mums this can be hugely disheartening and have a big impact on their body confidence. However, the tide is turning, with a growing number of mums empowered to reclaim their confidence through cosmetic surgery.

The so-called ‘mummy makeover’ (or ‘mommy makeover’), which includes a combination of treatments to rejuvenate the body, is being increasingly requested. It typically includes a breast augmentation / breast lift, tummy tuck and liposuction, all completed in one day (pictured above). 

The ‘mummy makeover’ can change the way women feel about themselves, enabling them to get back into favourite outfits, hit the beach or be intimate with their partners with total self-assurance. 

Top 3 Body Complaints Women Have After Having Kids

1) Loss of breast volume 

Whether one breastfeeds or not it, having a baby often results in noticeable changes to the breasts. Pregnancy itself causes the actual composition of the breast to change. An increase in the female hormone oestrogen causes the milk ducts to grow and branch out, eventually almost completely replacing areas previously occupied by fatty tissue.

When the mother stops breastfeeding (or if she does not breastfeed), the milk ducts in the breasts begin to shrink. Because the breasts are primarily composed of milk ducts, the breasts also reduce in size. 

Although, over time, fat tissue does begin to replace the milk ducts, many women are left with smaller breasts than before pregnancy, and also often report a loss of volume and firmness.

2) Sagging breasts

As the breasts grow during pregnancy and breastfeeding, the skin of the breasts also grows and stretches. When a woman weans her baby (or if she does not breastfeed) her breast size reduces but the extra skin remains. This leaves some women’s breasts with an ‘empty’ or ‘stretched out’ appearance.

Women with larger breasts are affected by breast sagging more than women with smaller breasts, as are women who undergo significant weight loss postpartum. 

Unfortunately breast sagging increases with each pregnancy and, because the breast itself contains no muscle or ligaments, no amount of exercise or toning can correct this problem.

3) ‘Flabby’ tummy

Even if you've dropped most of your baby weight and you religiously do stomach crunches, you may find that bulge around your belly just won’t budge. That's because it's mostly stretched-out skin and muscle. 

During pregnancy, the growing uterus stretches the muscles in the abdomen. The skin, too, stretches to accommodate this rapid growth. Once the uterus has deflated following birth, the skin often appears lax and crêpey and may feel uneven in texture due to stretch marks.

Some women also experience a condition called diastasis rectus abdominus, where the left and right side of the muscle that covers the front surface of the belly can separate. It is more likely to happen if you had a large baby or have been pregnant more than once.

In addition to looser abdominal muscles, postpartum hormones mean fat is more likely to be stored behind the muscles around the intestines, so shifting that ‘pregnancy paunch’ can be extremely difficult. 

How can a ‘mummy makeover’ help?

The ‘mummy makeover’ can address all of the above problems using a complementary combination of plastic surgery procedures, tailored to each individual. 

Breasts can be restored to their original size, shape and position through either a breast enlargement and/or breast lift. However, many patients take the opportunity to go a little larger and get the breasts they’ve always dreamed of.

Flabby tummies can be made flat through a combination of abdominoplasty and liposuction, which can also be used sculpt the waist and flanks (love handles). Meanwhile, laser skin resurfacing can help improve the appearance of stretch marks. 

Some patients decide to take advantage of being sedated by undergoing additional non-surgical procedures such as cosmetic injectables, or chemical peeling at the same time. 

By combining a bespoke range of treatments, mums can emerge feeling completely rejuvenated – often with a better figure than they've ever had before!

While there’s no doubt that having children is one of the most rewarding things a woman can do, it can take a huge toll on the body. This truly transformational procedure can make women feel like themselves again.

To find out how Ocean Clinic Marbella could help you get your pre-baby body back and regain your sparkle, book a consultation today.

Confused About Liposuction? Your Complete Guide to Different Techniques

Laser, ultrasound, infrasonic, water jet… there are a bamboozling variety of liposuction products on the market.

If you’re considering this treatment and have seen different clinics offering different types of liposuction you may well be rather confused about which to choose.

To help you make an informed decision, we’ve detailed below how the different lipo techniques are carried out, as well as any benefits or drawbacks of each method. The techniques have multiple marketing names, which we also detail. 

A Short History of Liposuction

Although the roots of liposuction (also called liposculpture) can be traced back as far as the 1920s, the procedure did not gain popularity until the early 80s. A French surgeon called Dr Yves-Gerard Illouz presented the ‘Illouz Method,’ which used thin cannulas to inject fluid into tissue to break up the fat deposits. Fat cells were then removed using a suction device. This became known as suction assisted lipectomy (SAL).

Following this, another surgeon called Pierre Fournier, introduced the use of lidocaine in the injectable fluid to act as a local anesthetic. In the 1980s, American physicians started to experiment with the technique – known as the tumescent technique - and developed various sedation methods that eliminated the need for general anesthesia, although full intravenous sedation is still used in some cases.

Towards the end of the 1990s, doctors introduced the use of ultrasound and lasers for liquefying fat, making it easier to remove, known as ultrasound assisted liposuction (UAL) or laser-assisted liposuction (LAL). Fat is still removed via suction but, with this technique, the surgeon does not need to exert as much force and energy in order to move the cannulas through the tissue.

In the past decade a proliferation of different liposuction machines have come to market, which has contributed to the many different names for the procedure today.

Types of Liposuction

Laser-Assisted Liposuction (LAL): CoolLipo, CoolTouch, Smartlipo, SlimLipo, LifeSculpt, Shrinkwrap

The laser technology used in LAL produces a burst of energy as it enters the fatty tissue that liquefies the fat. Similar to other techniques of liposuction, Laser-Assisted Liposuction requires the use of tumescent solution prior to lipolysis, and standard liposuction to aspirate the liquefied fat.

The laser energy is delivered by a thin laser fiber that is inserted through small incisions in the skin. In addition to breaking up fat cells, the laser energy also heats other tissues. If every aspect of the tissue is not treated with the same amount of power from the laser, dimpling, or even burns, may result, so the procedure must be performed by a skilled surgeon.

Ultrasonic Liposuction: ‘Vaser’, ‘LipoSelection’, 'High-Def Lipo'

Ultrasonic liposuction uses ultrasound high frequency vibration to break fat cells apart. Ultrasonic probes are inserted into the fatty tissue and the vibration gently disengages and loosens the fat cells, while preserving other tissues. 

Once the fat has liquefied and mixed with the tumescent fluid, a small cannula is used to remove the liquid. Some of the local anesthetic remains in the tissue and that helps to reduce post-procedural pain.

Nutational Infrasonic Liposculpture (NIL) / Custom Acoustic Liposuction (CAL): ‘Tickle Lipo’,  ‘Vibroliposuction’ and ‘Vibro Lipo’

Rather than using lasers or ultrasound to break up fat, NIL relies on the motion of the cannula itself. Powered by air pressure, it moves in three dimensions in a whirling movement, vibrating and rotating (known as ‘nutational’), whilst also delivering an infusion of anaesthesia in a tumescent fluid. 

It is claimed that nutation provides faster infiltration of the tumescent solution - 25% faster than other liposuction technology, shortening the length of the procedure for both practitioner and patient. 

The technology used is 3D acoustic energy which is emitted as a low, infrasonic frequency (10Hz), said to be safer than ultrasonic waves as this means that the cannula remains cool during the procedure so poses less risk to surrounding tissue.

One brand name trademarked for the technique in the US is ‘Tickle Lipo’, so-called because the vibration can cause a tickling sensation for the patient.

Power Assisted Liposuction (PAL): Micro-Aire, Vibro Liposuction

PAL systems use power supplied by an electric motor or compressed air to produce either a rapid in-and-out movement or a spinning rotation of an attached liposuction cannula.

Advocates of PAL assert that it makes liposuction easier for the surgeon, enabling more precise movements in tough areas such as above-the-rib abdominal fat.

Radio-Frequency Assisted Liposuction (RFAL): Bodytite

This works using radio frequency energy, which is transmitted through an electrode in the cannula. The radio frequency waves are guided upwards through the fat, turning it into liquid which the cannula immediately suctions from the body. This means that treatment time is reduced. 

The radio frequency assisted liposuction also works by stimulating the production of collagen beneath the skin. This is said to tighten the skin making the treatment area appear not only slimmer but also more toned.

Water Jet Assisted Liposuction (WAL): Body-Jet, AquaLipo

Water jet assisted liposuction uses a slightly pressurised stream of saline to dislodge fat. Once the local anesthesia in the tumescent fluid has taken hold, a cannula is introduced into the tissue to irrigate and then simultaneously suction the loosened fat cell from the body. Finally, any remaining fluid is removed. 

The procedure is considered gentle and minimally invasive and there is usually very little bruising or swelling.

Techniques utilised at Ocean Clinic Marbella

Our surgeons are experienced in all types of liposculpture and are able to advise on which is best for you. However, the clinic believes particularly excellent results can be achieved using the Nutational Infrasonic Liposculpture "Tickle Lipo" technique. To watch a video about this method click here.

It is important to note that the skill of the surgeon is more important than the type of technology used. All of the above methods may achieve great results in the right hands. 

For a full assessment of your individual needs please contact us for a consultation.

What’s It Really Like to Have A Nose Job?

If you are unhappy with the shape or size of your nose you’ve likely spent many years wondering what it would be like to have a nose job.

Having cosmetic surgery is not something people usually talk about openly, so you may wonder what it’s really like to have this procedure and whether it’s something that would be right for you. You probably have a lot of questions.

Would it be very painful? Would you look like you’d gone 10 rounds with Rocky Balboa? How long would you need to take off work? Would you be happy with the result?

One brave blogger decided to document her rhinoplasty journey, publishing a nose job diary and a series of photos on Instagram. In her daily updates, 24-year-old Australian Rhiannon Langley detailed how she felt in the run up to the surgery, immediately after and during her recovery.

One of our own patients, Kara Caradas (pictured above), has given an exclusive interview about her rhinoplasty experience with Ocean Clinic Marbella and will appear in the July edition of Society Magazine.

If you can’t wait until then, let us give you a peek behind the bandages and explain exactly what happens during nose reshaping surgery…

What happens at your consultation?

At your initial consultation the surgeon will ask you what you hope to achieve, before assessing your nose to see what alterations are possible. He will advise if your desired outcome is achievable (and if not, what would be possible) and explain how the reshaping would be achieved.

Depending on what you want changed – be it the tip of your nose or the bridge – it may be necessary to make an incision in the columella (between your nostrils). This is known as open rhinoplasty. Closed Rhinoplasty is carried out completely internally. It may also be necessary to break your nose to create the shape you desire and the doctor will advise you if this is the case.

The doctor will likely show you before and after photos of other patients who have previously undergone similar nose reshaping. He may also be able to give you a computer generated impression of what your new nose would look like.

Although you may have been given an idea of cost prior to your consultation, because every nose surgery is different, it is not until the consultation that the surgeon can give you an exact quote.

What happens if I decide to go ahead with the surgery?

If you decide to go ahead with the procedure you will be booked in for surgery and asked to return for a pre-op check. Your surgeon will take your blood pressure, weight, x-ray your nose and also carry out a blood test, to ensure you are fit and well for the surgery.

He will talk you through the procedure once again to make sure you are informed of any possible side effects, the recovery process and after care. The surgeon will also take photographs of your nose so that you may see the difference following surgery.

What happens on the day of my surgery?

You will no doubt be feeling very nervous, but the surgical team will be on hand to reassure you and answer any questions. You will probably be a little hungry because it is necessary to fast from midnight prior to the day of surgery.

You will be taken to your room, made comfortable and prepared. At Ocean Clinic Marbella we have 5 well-equipped bedrooms in our recently extended patient care unit, designed to make your stay as comfortable as possible. We also provide sofas in each of our rooms, enabling your friend or loved one to stay by your side.

Once you are taken into surgery, you will be hooked up to various monitoring systems before receiving general anaesthetic via an IV line in your arm.

Nose reshaping surgery usually takes between 1-3 hours. If you're having your nose made smaller, your surgeon will make cuts inside your nostrils to reach the bone and cartilage. Some of the bone and cartilage will be removed to achieve the shape you have agreed with your surgeon. There will be no external incisions, unless you are also having your nostrils made smaller. In which case, small incisions will be made in the skin of your nostrils, which will leave fine scars on each side.

If you're having your nose made larger or giving it more bulk, your surgeon may make a cut between your nostrils in order to reshape the bone and cartilage (open rhinoplasty). If you require extra bone or cartilage (a graft) to build up your nose, this may be taken from your ears or ribs or an artificial implant might by used instead.

The incisions in your nose, both inside and out, will be closed with dissolvable stiches and nasal airway splints placed inside the nostrils to provide support. Bandages will be applied to the outside of the nose and, if the nose was broken, a splint will also be applied on the outside. You can watch a 3D animation of the entire procedure here.

How will I feel when I wake up?

When you awaken you will probably feel a little dizzy, disoriantated and nauseous. You will need to rest in your room until the effects of the anaesthetic have passed. You may need pain relief to help with any discomfort as the anaesthetic wears off.

You will not be able to breathe through your nose because it will be packed with dressings, which will be removed after 24-48 hours. You will usually be able to go home when you feel ready, although you will need to arrange for someone to drive you home. Try to have a friend or relative stay with you for the first 24 hours.

Your nose will be very sensitive for 3-5 days, but pain should be manageable with over the counter medication. The amount of swelling and bruising you experience varies from person to person, but you can minimise this by applying ice packs and trying, as much as possible, to sleep upright. Bruising usually lasts around 10 days.

When will I be ready to return to work?

If your nose was broken during surgery, you will have to wait 7-12 days before the splint can be removed. By this point your stitches should also be fully dissolved.

You should feel well enough to return to work after this, but because you are likely to be swollen for a couple of weeks, a two-week break is advisable, if at all possible. You should also avoid any strenuous exercise or contact sports, such as rugby or football, for at least six weeks.
 
While you should see improvement in the appearance of your nose after a couple of weeks, it will be 6-12 months before you see the final results. You will be given a date for a follow-up appointment to check everything is healing as expected and that you are happy with the results of the procedure.

Deciding to have nose reshaping surgery is no light undertaking, but we hope the above explanation has given you a better understanding of the procedure, which is our most frequently performed procedure here at Ocean Clinic Marbella. We would be very happy to answer any further questions you have, show you before and after rhinoplasty photographs and discuss what we can do for you. Call us on (+34) 951 775 518.