Monday 5 June 2023

Using Ultrasound to Improve Skin: A Non-Invasive Treatment

Microfocused Ultrasound with Visualization and Dermal Imaging: A Skin Treatment Technique

From a dermatologic point of view, the facial rejuvenation process has changed in recent years. Changes in skin, bone structure, fat and muscles are all known to contribute to the ageing process. The main goals of the rejuvenation process for the skin and subcutaneous tissue are neocollagenesis and volume restoration. 


The use of a combination of energy-based technologies and fillers has grown to achieve a more natural and youthful appearance using minimally invasive techniques. 


What is Neocollagenesis?


Neocollagenesis refers to the process of generating new collagen in the body. Collagen is a protein that provides structural support to various tissues, including the skin. As we age, the production of collagen naturally decreases, leading to the development of wrinkles, fine lines, and sagging skin. Neocollagenesis involves stimulating the body's natural collagen production to improve the skin's firmness, elasticity, and overall appearance. Techniques such as microfocused ultrasound with visualization and dermal imaging can promote neocollagenesis, helping to rejuvenate the skin and reduce the visible signs of aging.

Minimally invasive techniques: 

Microfocused ultrasound with visualization and dermal imaging is a non-invasive treatment method used to improve the appearance of the skin. This technique uses ultrasound technology to stimulate collagen production and tighten the skin. In this article, we will discuss the benefits, procedure, and potential side effects of this treatment.

Benefits:

Microfocused ultrasound with visualization and dermal imaging offers several benefits for the skin. It helps to reduce the signs of aging such as wrinkles, fine lines, and sagging skin. The treatment stimulates the production of collagen, a protein that provides structural support to the skin, resulting in a smoother and more youthful appearance. It can also improve the texture and tone of the skin, making it look healthier and revitalized.

Procedure:

The procedure involves the use of a handheld device that emits ultrasound waves. The waves penetrate deep into the skin, reaching the underlying layers where collagen is produced. The device also has a visualization component, allowing the practitioner to see the targeted area and ensure accurate treatment. The treatment is generally well-tolerated and does not require any anesthesia. It can be performed on various areas of the body, including the face, neck, and chest.

During the procedure, the device is moved over the skin in a systematic manner. The ultrasound waves generate heat, which stimulates the production of collagen and triggers a tightening effect. The practitioner carefully adjusts the intensity of the treatment based on the patient's needs and comfort level.

Side Effects:

Microfocused ultrasound with visualization and dermal imaging is considered a safe procedure with minimal side effects. Some patients may experience temporary redness, swelling, or tingling in the treated area, but these effects usually subside within a few hours to a few days. In rare cases, bruising or numbness may occur, but these are generally temporary and resolve on their own.

Conclusion:

Microfocused ultrasound with visualization and dermal imaging is a non-invasive skin treatment that offers numerous benefits. It helps reduce the signs of aging and improves the texture and tone of the skin. The procedure is safe and well-tolerated, with minimal side effects. 

If you are interested in improving the appearance of your skin, consult with one of our highly-skilled, qualified practitioners at Ocean Clinic, Marbella to determine if this treatment is right for you.

Thursday 1 June 2023

Does aging of the forehead bone affect our surgical/non surgical treatment choices?

Study on the Aging of the Forehead Bone by Dr. Konstantin Frank et al. 

A recent study undertaken by resident surgeon Dr. Konstantin Frank et al. looks at the way in which the forehead bone (naturally) changes over time, and the difference of such changes between males and females; the concavity of the forehead can contribute to the appearance of an aged face as the lack of bone causes the overlying soft tissue layer to begin to descend. Facial surgery can address such ageing by repositioning via face lift or by lipo-filling the concavity to create a more youthful appearance. The purpose of the study was to give a better understanding of the nature of the forehead bone in order to determine the best possible surgical or non-surgical treatments. 

The purpose of the study was to give a better understanding of the nature of the forehead bone in order to determine the best possible surgical or non-surgical treatments. 


Abstract:

The study examined age-related and gender-related changes in the frontal bone and forehead. Cranial computed tomographic (CT) images from 157 Caucasian individuals were analyzed. The thickness and distance measurements of the frontal bone were taken to investigate age and gender differences. The results showed that the size of the male forehead decreases with age, and there were no significant differences compared to the female forehead in old age. The thickness of the frontal bone increased slightly in the lower forehead with age for both genders. However, in the upper forehead, the thickness of the frontal bone decreased significantly in males but showed no significant change in females.




Methods:

The study analyzed CT images obtained from 157 Caucasian individuals, including males and females from various age groups. Distance and thickness measurements of the frontal bone were performed using multi-planar computed tomography imaging. The measurements were taken at different angles and locations on the forehead.



Results:

Females had smaller mean distance measurements compared to males in both young and middle-aged groups. However, in the old age group, there was no significant difference between genders as males reduced overall in mean distances. The distance between the posterior clinoid process and the internal lamella of the frontal bone decreased with age in males. The thickness of the frontal bone in the lower forehead increased slightly with age for both genders. In the upper forehead, the thickness of the frontal bone decreased significantly with age in males but showed no significant change in females.


Conclusion:

The study found that the shape of the frontal bone varies in young individuals of different genders and undergoes complex changes with age. Understanding these changes in both the bone and soft tissues of the forehead is important for determining the best surgical and nonsurgical treatment options. These findings contribute significantly to our knowledge of age-related changes in the frontal bone, particularly in a Caucasian population.