August 18, 2005 • ISSUE 43 / VOLUME 1

New treatments rejuvenate skin

Non-ablative options lessen healing time

The FotoFacial and FotoLift work beneath the skin to minimize skin damage.

Procedures for non-surgical rejuvenation of the skin are among the fastest growing segments in cosmetic medicine and surgery, and public interest is expanding at an explosive rate.

Techniques for laser resurfacing of the skin gained popularity in the early 1990s. Results were generally good, however, the prolonged healing period and the possibility of complications related to post treatment abnormalities in skin pigmentation, (particularly for patients residing in sunny climates) tempered early enthusiasm for these procedures.

More recently, advances in so-called non-ablative, or "non-peeling" procedures for skin rejuvenation offering the advantage of minimal, or no downtime have fueled public enthusiasm.

Among the newest (and theoretically, most advanced) of such devices, the Syneron Galaxy, is now available in Honolulu. Unlike other currently available devices that utilize a single source of energy – laser, intense pulsed light (IPL), radiofrequency (RF) – the Galaxy system incorporates a synergistic blend of two forms of energy intended to enhance results while minimizing the possibility of complications.

Two treatment options are available: the FotoFacial that uses a blended combination of IPL and RF, and the FotoLift, that uses a synergistic combination of non-ablative laser energy and RF.

Both treatments utilize energy that is focused beneath the skin surface, thus minimizing the risk of visible skin injury that leads to "downtime."

Most patients are able to return to work immediately. In addition to the face and neck, these procedures may benefit sun damaged, aging skin of the chest, hands, and forearms.

The FotoFacial (and FotoBody) treats age spots, freckles, and other pigmented blemishes and helps restore youthful glow, radiance and smoothness to the complexion. The FotoLift firms, tones and tightens the skin.

Both procedures are performed following application of topical anesthetic cream and are effective for all skin types. The Syneron device was named the best anti-aging treatment of 2004 by New York Magazine.

For more information on these procedures, visit www.youthfulface .com, or call Cosmetic Surgery Associates, at 531-8897.