Woman's Torso

Atlanta Face & Body offers a variety of solutions for eliminating fat in troublesome parts of the body. On procedure that is gaining popularity throughout the country is SculpSure®, an FDA-approved technology that heats and eliminates fat cells in just 25 minutes.

SculpSure is a noninvasive body contouring procedure that requires no suction, no freezing, and no painful massage. Typical SculpSure patients may be happy with the shape of their body, but have stubborn areas of fat that can’t be removed with diet or exercise. SculpSure can address those concerns, sometimes in as little as one treatment.

We are often asked why our practice doesn’t offer CoolSculpting, a similar procedure to SculpSure that’s also noninvasive and FDA-approved. We want to explain to you why Dr. Elizabeth performs SculpSure over CoolSculpting when the two procedures may sound and look similar.

Hot vs. Cold

Both SculpSure and CoolSculpting target fat cells directly by changing their temperature at an extreme rate to kill the fat cells permanently. However, their approaches are different: SculpSure heats the fat cells up, while CoolSculpting freezes them. The processes are different, as well. CoolSculpting combines suction and freezing directly to the fat cells. Alternatively, SculpSure is an all-laser procedure that eliminates fat cells by heating the tissue to a high temperature while not causing uncomfortable temperatures on the skin.

Treatment Time

Both SculpSure and CoolSculpting target fat cells directly by changing their temperature at an extreme rate to kill the fat cells permanently. However, their approaches are different: SculpSure heats the fat cells up, while CoolSculpting freezes them. The processes are different, as well. CoolSculpting combines suction and freezing directly to the fat cells. Alternatively, SculpSure is an all-laser procedure that eliminates fat cells by heating the tissue to a high temperature while not causing uncomfortable temperatures on the skin.

Recovery

The downtime after the procedure is similar – both SculpSure and CoolSculpting have small redness and soreness issues that typically resolve themselves within two weeks. Also, both procedures take about 6-12 weeks to show full results.

Both Treat the Same Areas

Both SculpSure and CoolSculpting are FDA-approved procedures. SculpSure recently received FDA clearance for treatment of the back, inner thighs, and outer thighs, similar to CoolSculpting. Both are also FDA-approved to treat the abdomen and flanks.

Dr. Elizabeth considered the above four reasons when deciding to adopt SculpSure over CoolSculpting at Atlanta Face & Body.
“Atlanta Face & Body was the first plastic surgery center to bring SculpSure to Atlanta,” says Dr. Elizabeth. “Having a procedure like this that produces great results, requires a shorter visit and a similar recovery time is a great plus for our practice. We’ve helped hundreds of Atlantans achieve the results they hoped and they are very happy with the minimal time in the office.”
Dr. Elizabeth is a double board-certified Facial Plastic Surgeon and has performed thousands of facial plastic procedures in addition to procedures of the body. As founder of Atlanta Face & Body, her goal is to create a pleasant, memorable experience that will have you feeling and looking like your most Beautiful You!

Dr. Elizabeth and the staff at Atlanta Face & Body invite interested persons for a private consultation on SculpSure. Call 678-888-3223 (FACE) to schedule.

Woman Holding Face After Facelift

Cosmetic surgery for both men and women is enjoying more popularity than ever before. With time, jowls and loose face and neck skin can start to show our age. But there are ways of turning back the clock!

Everyone deserves to feel beautiful – and look as youthful and energetic on the outside as they feel on the inside. It is no longer necessary to “just put up with it” if you have a feature which you would like to have improved.

Over recent years cosmetic surgeries such as facelifts have become simpler, safer, and more affordable. A facelift has the power to not only alter and refresh a person’s physical appearance. The renewed confidence which is gained after a facelift procedure is a definite bonus and one which many patients consider to be irreplaceable.

Many years ago a facelift was a very obvious procedure, often resulting in a fake or “plastic” appearance. Improved technologies mean that modern day facelifts are more subtle with a focus on enhancement rather than drastic change. The end result should be a fresher and more youthful version of the face you already have.

If you are considering a facelift procedure you probably have a lot of questions. Here we look at seven facts about facelifts which may help you with your decision making.

What is a Facelift?

Before undergoing any medical or surgical procedure it’s important to understand exactly what it is.

A facelift is a surgical procedure that reverses some signs of aging. This is performed by tightening the layers of the face that descend and removing some excess skin, to restore a natural contour and create a tighter look to face and neck skin.  With an experienced surgeon, a very natural looking result can be achieved.

There are many factors that cause the skin on your face to appear wrinkled or loose including loss of volume that supports the face, tissue descent with deepening of folds and development of jowls, and loss of collagen contributing to loose skin in the neck area.

Lifestyle choices such as increased sun exposure, smoking and stress can also play a role in your skin’s appearance, and there are many options to improve the skin and complexion as well.

What Type of Surgery Is Right for Me?

Importantly, there isn’t a ‘one size fits all’ formula when it comes to facelifts. There are actually different types for different needs. Your choice will be determined by the specific “problem areas” you want to address.  This approach customizes the procedure for your specific needs.

We offer a variety of Facial Contouring and Facelift procedures, which are explained below.

ProfileLift Facelift 

Looking for a more defined jawline or neck? The ProfileLift Facelift™ is a minimally invasive approach with a quick recovery and big results.

No one wants a double-chin and these fat collections can be hereditary and contrary to popular belief have nothing to do with your weight. If you’re suffering from fullness under your chin and a poorly defined jawline, a Profile Lift might be right for you.  A Profile Lift type of facelift contours the jawline and neck by using an essentially incisionless approach to remove excess fat and to stimulate new collagen formation. This helps tighten the skin and provide the more defined jawline and neck you’ve always wanted, even for younger people with more contour concerns that aging issues.

PrecisionLift Facelift

Signs of aging can start as early as your 30’s or 40’s with deep folds around the corners of your mouth as well as sagging in the face, jowls, and neck.

Looking for a less invasive approach with a quick recovery? We offer a facelift contouring that reduces and tightens the jowl area while contouring a sculpted jawline and neck. We call this the PrecisionLift Facelift™, which tightens your skin’s elasticity and is perfect for younger candidates with earlier aging changes.

Signature MiniLift Facelift

If you are feeling that you have some aging changes, but don’t need a facelift yet, a Signature MiniLift Facelift may be perfect for you.  People are seeking procedures at a younger age before severe jowling, sagging, and neck laxity occur.  A Signature MiniLift lifts the jowls and tightens neck skin while minimizing incisions and recovery.  For people in their 40’s or 50’s with earlier aging changes, this can be a great less invasive option.

Signature NeckLift Facelift

One of the first areas skin can loosen over time is the neck. This is due to natural aging and doesn’t always relate to a person’s weight. Are you in need of a facelift focused on the neck without much of an issue with jowling or facial sagging? Our Signature Neck Lift™ Facelift maybe right for you. This facelift uses minimal incisions behind the ear and under the chin that allow our doctor to address aging issues in the neck. This procedure takes slightly over an hour and full recovery is expected within weeks!

Signature Facelift

Facelifts are traditionally sought by older women, but over the last several years, more women under age 50 have been requesting the procedure. Men, more conscious of staying competitive, also increasing seek out this procedure.  Facelifts are focused on both the face and neck, where aging is seen as jowling, face and neck laxity, and vertical folds appearing at the neck. Ready to look younger and feel better?  Customized by our surgeon based on her experience with thousands of patients, the Signature Facelift™ is done using minimal incisions while delivering a youthful, natural look. Full recovery is expected within weeks of procedure!

How Much Does a Facelift Cost?

The biggest question on your mind might be how much will the surgery cost? Because the types of procedures available vary so greatly, so does the price.

According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the average surgery fee for a facelift is a little over $7,000 with additional costs for anesthesia and the facility.  Consumer date from Real Self, shows an average cost of $12,100.  The experience of the surgeon you choose may also factor into the cost.

Remember, this is the face you show the world and the results are long-lasting.  You should select based on the experience and results of your surgeon, not just price.

Our practice offers multiple other procedures including some of those discussed in this article, that can make improving your appearance extremely affordable.  Since most medical insurance companies will not cover the cost of a cosmetic surgery, our practice also offers multiple finance options to achieve the results you want today.

Do I Have to Undergo General Anesthesia?

“Going to sleep” can be a fear factor for a lot of people, particularly for an elective surgery.  The good news is with a surgeon experienced with local anesthesia you can usually achieve the result you want with relaxation and gentle numbing.  This not only maximizes your safety but minimizes your recovery potentially as well.  However, there are people who prefer to be completely unaware and “twilight” anesthesia like that used for endoscopy procedures can be a great option as well.  Avoid practices with a ‘one size fits all’ formula, and look for someone experienced with local anesthesia but the flexibility to offer other anesthesia options if needed or appropriate.

Is Recovery Painful?

With any surgery, of course you want to know the length and intensity of the recovery process beforehand. However, this depends not just on your procedure and surgeon, but your body.

The average initial recovery for a facelift is anywhere from 1 to 2 weeks. This is the amount of time it takes for most swelling and bruising to subside. Most patients can return to work in 1-2 weeks.

However, healing continues, with tissue softening and contouring over weeks and even months.  The initial tightness and numbness in your skin can feel a little “mask-like” in the beginning, but this improves with time.

Your surgeon may request follow-up visits in the next couple of weeks and months to monitor your progress and discuss any further treatment options.

Perhaps surprisingly, most people do not experience severe pain following their procedure – more a sensation of tightness and some discomfort from the initial swelling. These are all normal side-effects and will subside over time.

Am I a Candidate for a Facelift?

One of the most important factors to consider before having a facelift is do you have realistic expectations?

This procedure will most definitely improve the overall appearance of the laxity on your face and neck.  The results are long-lasting, but while we have turned  back the clock, we haven’t stopped it.  Wrinkles in the skin can be addressed with complimentary procedures such as laser resurfacing.  We want you to happy with your outcome, and understanding what a facelift does and doesn’t, but perhaps other procedures can do to complement your results is a key part of that.

Most individual’s seeking a facelift are between the ages of 40 and 80.

How Long Will My Results Last?

As noted above, while your results are long-lasting, we can only turn back the hands of time, but not stop the aging process altogether.  Still, you will generally always look younger for your age than you otherwise would have, so the benefits are potentially ongoing.

A major factor in the longevity of your facelift is the proper care afterward. By continuing a healthy lifestyle, proper skin care and lack of sun exposure, you can help maintain your youthful appearance.

It also depends on the age at which you undergo surgery. Younger can potentially be better in this instance. As you age and your skin begins to lose its elasticity, your facelift will help maintain tighter, more youthful appearance.

What Should I Expect?

Having realistic expectations of the entire process will play a major role in your recovery.

A facelift is meant to create a natural appearance. It should result in an improved, younger version of YOU.  No one wants to look like a different person completely or have a stretched “done” appearance.  This is why selecting an experienced surgeon is so important.

It’s important to note that everyone’s skin is different and will potentially react differently. Some individuals may require complimentary procedures to achieve the desired result.

Don’t get discouraged. You and your surgeon can work together to create a procedure plan that works best for you.

Undergoing facelift surgery can help you not only restore the natural beauty of your face but also your confidence.  If you don’t like what you see in the mirror, and the reflection doesn’t match how you feel, now may be the time to learn more about your options.  Need more information?

Schedule a consultation today.

Face of laying man, hands of beautician with a syringe and sponge, horisontal
Increasing numbers of American men are choosing to undergo cosmetic surgery. An American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery report found that cosmetic surgery for men has grown by 325% since 1997. This rise sits inside a wider context of men now taking as much pride in their appearance as women.
Indeed, the global male grooming market is now worth an estimated $15 billion. So, why are more guys choosing to go under the knife? And what procedures are most popular? Let’s find out!

Why The Increase In Cosmetic Surgery For Men?

In 2016, there were 17.1 million cosmetic procedures performed in the United States, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. That’s a 3 percent increase from 2015. But how do men fit into these growing statistics?

More men are undertaking cosmetic procedures, there’s no doubt about that. Last year, they accounted for nearly 1 in 10 procedures performed in the United States.

To be more precise, men had nearly 185,000 surgical procedures and more than 1 million nonsurgical procedures in 2016.

Of course, the motivations behind plastic surgery vary according to the individual. Some men wish to maintain a youthful look as the years go on, others want to feel better about themselves and some want to please their partner.

Plastic surgeon Dr. Richard Ellenbogen says cosmetic surgery for men is becoming less of a taboo. More men are starting to understand the benefits that can be achieved through different procedures he says.

Beverly Hills plastic surgeon Dr. Marc Mani believes a change in workplace values might be influencing men’s thoughts on cosmetic surgery.

“The days of staying with the same company for 40 years until you get your gold watch at retirement are over. Seniority is not as important as energy and productivity, which are both associated with youth. In an economy driven by tech and social media, youthful looks are more important than ever before.”

There’s no reason why men shouldn’t look and feel their best at all times. We live in a time where our society is fitter, healthier and more motivated than ever before. If you want to change something about your face or body – nothing should stand in your way.

The Most Requested Cosmetic Surgery For Men

The most popular surgical procedure for men is liposuction, but it’s not all about fat loss. Figures from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons reveal that the most in demand cosmetic procedures for men in 2016 were:

1.Liposuction (45,012 procedures)

2.Breast Reduction (31,368 procedures)

3.Eyelid Surgery (28,025 procedures)

4.Nose Surgery (26,205 procedures)

5.Face lift (13,702 procedures)

What Do Some Of These Procedures Involve?

  • Eyelid rejuvenation (blepharoplasty): From loose skin and lateral brows, to puffy pads below the eyelids and swollen tear troughs, the eyes are one of the first areas of your face to show signs of ageing. Eyelid rejuvenation surgery can help you to look years younger. You’ll once again be able to look in the mirror with confidence and vitality.
  • Neck lift: The neck can be  a major problem area for men, especially when it comes to buying fitted shirts. A neck lift can help get rid of the dreaded “turkey neck”. It involves tightening the midsection of your neck up to the area behind your ears.
  • Nose surgery (rhinoplasty): This is a procedure that’s popular with both men and women. If you’re not happy with your nose, it can affect how you see your entire face. Rhinoplasties can help fix a crooked, wide or asymmetric nose. The surgery can also fix medical issues such as a deviated septum.
  • Chin augmentation: Strong chins and chiselled jawlines are high on the wish lists of most men. These are perfectly achievable with a little cosmetic help. Chin surgery can give men more definition and can be combined with nose surgery, a neck lift or even a face lift.
  • Male breast reduction for gynecomastia: Male breast enlargement can be both painful, inconvenient and embarrassing. A simple breast reduction can restore a masculine shaped chest and end discomfort and insecurity caused by the condition.

A Booming Industry In General

It’s clear that the plastic surgery industry in America is booming – and it’s only getting bigger.

Last year, Americans spent more than $15 billion on combined surgical and nonsurgical procedures. What’s more, there was a $1.5 billion increase in expenditures over the past year alone. The surge in spending is one of the sharpest increases ever recorded.

But the revelations come as no shock either. The cosmetic surgery industry’s earnings have been on the rise since 2009, when our nation spent approximately $10 billion on cosmetic procedures.  Between 2000 and 2016, there’s been 132% more cosmetic procedures.

What’s more, that figure doesn’t even count reconstructive surgeries in response to injury, disease or gender confirmation.

Final Thoughts

Our society places high value on looking young, feeling healthy and being fit. Whether you’re after a straighter nose, slimmer waistline or more chiselled jawline, there is a solution.

Like many women, an increasing number of men want to feel comfortable in their own skin, confident in any environment and look their best at all times. And many of these men are finding plastic surgery to be a fantastic option to help achieve such results.

As one of the nations top plastic surgeons (she has performed over 4,000 facelifts in eight years), award winning Dr Elizabeth Whitaker will work with you to achieve your personal aesthetic goals. She and her staff go the extra mile to ensure you are comfortable from the moment you book your appointment.

Dr Elizabeth believes there is natural beauty in everyone and aims to find your optimal look. “My goal is for everyone to notice how great you look, but for no one to know how you pull it off!”

Why not get in touch today and enquire about our options for cosmetic surgery for men? Click here to schedule your free consultation.

Whether you live in the Atlanta area, or in another city, the professionals at Atlanta Face and Body can set up a convenient appointment time to suit your personal needs.

It’s never too late to change your life. Take control your body and feel great about yourself once again!

 

Beautiful Woman before Plastic Surgery Operation Cosmetology. B

For the first time ever, Americans spent over 15 billion dollars on plastic surgery.

These results show that the stigma of having a cosmetic procedure done is gone. Now, there are other plastic surgery trends to look out for in 2017.

In the past, plastic surgery was more about treating wounds, conducting breast reconstruction and fixing facial injuries. Currently, the major focus is on beauty.

People give different reasons for undergoing cosmetic surgery. These include:

  • Health reasons, such as fixing obstructed nasal breathing
  • Fixing scars and deformities from accidents or injuries
  • Correcting birth defects
  • Boosting self-image
  • Removing tattoos
  • Peer pressure or teasing about a body part

Despite the motivation to get some cosmetic work done, its benefits show that it is worth considering. The various plastic surgery trends brought improved mental and physical health, body weight maintenance, increased self-confidence, and job opportunities.

With that out of the way, let’s dive in and look at the top plastic surgery trends for 2017.

Top Plastic Surgery Trends in 2017

Every year brings new ideas for the cosmetic surgery industry. Here are the trending procedures for 2017:

Breast Augmentation, Reconstruction, Lifts, and Reductions

It seems that no matter what year it is, there will always be a need for breast-related plastic surgery. It involves procedures such as breast lifts, augmentation, reconstruction, and reduction.

Breast reconstruction became one of the common plastic surgery trends for women in 2015. This was after actress Angelina Jolie revealed her double mastectomy procedure because she was at risk for breast cancer. After the removal of the breasts, women can return to the doctor for implants or for a tissue-based reconstruction of the breasts.

Augmentation is a procedure for increasing the size of the breasts. It improves women’s self-confidence and image. On the other hand, breast lifts are for making breasts firm again. They lose their form due to age, pregnancy, or weight changes.

Breast reduction involves reducing the size of the breasts to prevent other health complications. For example, women with large breasts suffer from headaches, and pain in the neck and back. Reduction also improves the body proportions and posture.

Men are also going for breast reduction surgery. Having a ‘manlier’ chest improves their self-image, confidence, and general look.

Liposculpture, Sculpsure, and Tummy Tucks

One of the ever-presents in plastic surgery trends is liposuction. It is a procedure for removing excess fat from parts of the body. In 2017, there is a shift from simple liposuction to liposculpture and sculpsures.

Liposculpture takes it a step further by reshaping the fat deposits in the body. It does more sculpting and contouring. This means that there will be added definition of the muscles, whether it is the stomach or the arms.

Sculpsure is a quick and non-invasive procedure of using lasers to reduce fat and contour the body. The lasers melt the fat cells and the body ejects them. It removes fat in the abdomen, waist, and thighs.

It is a painless method for people who have a healthy lifestyle but need to shed a few pounds. It also does not have a long recovery period. You can continue with your life immediately or 24 hours after leaving the treatment facility.

Tummy tucks are for those with excess fat and loose skin. It thins the fat and tightens the abdominal muscles. This recreates the waistline and flattens the tummy.

Injectables

2017 is seeing greater expansion of the injectable forms of plastic surgery. While people will do anything to improve their beauty, the preference seems to be for less invasive procedures.

First on the list are the designer facial fillers. These are drugs injected into the soft tissues of the face to revitalize it. They plump the lips and reduce facial creases. They fix wrinkles and skin folds.

Examples of dermal fillers include Restylane Refyne and Juvederm Voluma. These products cannot treat big fold lines and loose skin. That will require a surgical procedure.

Another popular injectable is Botox. This is a staple among celebrities. It reduces facial wrinkles by relaxing the muscles underneath the skin. This makes the skin appear smooth for a couple of weeks.

Kybella is an injectable drug for treating double chins. It does this by melting the fat in the injection area. For now, cosmetic surgeons can only use it for the neck area and chin.

Last, PRP injections will be one of the leading plastic surgery trends in the future. The initials stand for Platelet-Rich Plasma. It involves taking the patient’s platelets, multiplying them, and re-injecting them to a specific area.

PRP injections are useful for hair restoration and facial contouring. They are also for anti-aging, lip enhancement, improving healing, and vaginal rejuvenation.

Eyelid Surgery

Many people struggle with eye bags, puffiness, or sagging skin around the eyes. Thus, they end up looking older than they are. Sagging skin also obstructs vision.

Some of the solutions include brow lifts, eyelid incisions, and skin removal. This gives the patient a youthful look.

Vaginal Surgery and Rejuvenation

Another growing trend is to use surgery to improve the female genital area. This involves vaginoplasty and labiaplasty.

Vaginoplasty is a procedure for tightening the vaginal structures. The vagina can become loose due to aging or giving birth. Labiaplasty is an aesthetic surgery on the labia.

Like other cosmetic procedures, these give women confidence and self-esteem. It can also prevent discomfort in tight clothing.

Butt Augmentation and Lifts

It must be obvious to all by now that butt implants and lifts are not going away anytime soon.

Women continue to desire Brazilian butt lifts. These involve taking fat out of one area and injecting it into the upper part of the buttocks. It makes it look fuller and rounder.

Other types of butt surgeries involve using liposuction to remove excess fat. Then the surgeon removes the saggy skin that remains. This gives the butt a smoother look.

They can also get silicone implants. These fillings can be life threatening if you don’t visit a professional plastic surgeon. Otherwise, it is a common procedure and it requires extra work to get the right look for you.

Learn More About Getting Plastic Surgery

With each passing year, new patients are looking to improve some aspect of their body.

Contact us to book an appointment and learn more about plastic surgery.

Woman Receiving Lip Injectable
 You shouldn’t have to get major surgery or have to go under the scalpel to look better in the 21st century. And you don’t! Lip fillers and other injectables are a very common procedure today and have been safely used for decades.

More than 1 million men and women annually use injectable fillers to smooth out wrinkles and give skin a refresher. Because it has been around for so long, the procedure is carefully regulated and guaranteed to provide results.

Lip filler and other injectables are simple and easy ways to make patients look young and feel great again. And while they may not be for everyone, they can provide a real benefit to those interested.

To help make more informed decisions, let’s explore how lip fillers work and why we might need them to begin with.

What Happens to Our Skin as We Age?

Science is doing a better job at keeping us alive longer. And though our bodies are feeling great, human skin shows its age.

After the age of 20, about one percent less of collagen is produced in the skin each year. Collagen helps our skin looking youthful by filling it out and holding it together. As we lose collagen, we lose the glue in our face, so to speak.

That’s when the fine lines and wrinkles come out.

To battle the apparent aging of our skin, scientists developed more than a few injectable treatments. You may have heard of Botox? Botox, an injected neurotoxin, can treat forehead creases, brow furrows, and crow’s feet.

Botox works differently than other injectables. The neurotoxin effectively stops muscle signals from reaching certain portions of the skin, causing fine lines and wrinkles.

For the sake of this article, we’re going to leave Botox behind and look only at those injectables and lip fillers that replace lost materials. (Botox isn’t a filler; it’s more like a relaxer.)

How Do Injectables Work?

As we mentioned above, injectable dermal and lip fillers (or skin fillers) have been around for ages. They can:

  • Make thin lips plumper
  • Bring out the natural features of a face
  • Lessen the shadows around eyes
  • Improve the appearance of scars
  • Help reverse wrinkles and skin creases
  • And decrease or remove apparent age marks, among other things

The process of receiving a dermal or lip filler is quick, safe, easy, and painless for the most part.

Hyaluronic acids (HA) are created by our bodies and are made up of a gel like substance. HA can be found between cells in our bodies helping things stay together. As we get older, though, we lose those acids and the signs of age become easier to see.

Procedure: A filler to replicate or replace the glue of our skin is injected with a very tiny needle. The slight discomfort of the injection has been compared to a small bee sting. Administers may take around 10-20 minutes to complete the process.

Why Choose Lip Fillers?

For those that are considering lip fillers or any other type of injectable, here’s a quick rundown of why you should consider them:

1. They’re Not Permanent

A lot of people may get a little uneasy about doing permanent work on their face. The great thing about lip fillers is they fade over time, giving you the opportunity to consider new procedures or simply keep what you have.

Depending on the injection, the effects will fade over a matter of months to a year or so.

2. They’re Reversible

Let’s say that a patient undergoes a procedure but immediately afterward decides they don’t like it. It’s not irreversible!

Some procedures have counter injections that can nearly-immediately reverse the work that has just been done.

3. Can Be Used Alongside Other Products

If a patient is looking to get more than one procedure on their face at a time, lip fillers and other injections can be used simultaneously.

Sometimes to get the desired effect, more than one injectable is expected to be used on the face. This is actually an okay thing!

4. There Are Options to Choose From

There is more than one way to get rid of signs of aging. A physician should ultimately be the one to suggest which type of injection is used to achieve a certain result. However, they can explain how each works and provide options.

Options include:

  • Juvederm Ultra
  • Restylane Silk
  • Beloterohttp

5. Quick Procedure, No Recovery Time Needed

Some might be hesitant at the idea of going under a procedure that takes a lot of time to recover from. If you’re trying to look better, why should you go through a Phantom of the Opera phase?

You don’t have to. These procedures nowadays only give a little irritation and have a very low chance of slight bruising.

6. Effects are Immediate

No need to worry about waiting around for better skin or fuller lips. The chemicals in cosmetic injections react quickly with the cells beneath the skin and provide an immediate result.

7. Procedures Don’t Require a Scalpel or Anesthesia

There’s not a lot of pain associated with injections, and for the slight sting of the injection, doctors can give topical numbing solutions. Better yet, a knife will never have to cut into the skin to achieve great results.

Injections that help fill in and smooth out age marks are safe and easy and don’t require a lot of strain on the body.

The Best Way To Look Young Again

The list of reasons why we suggest these procedures could go on and on! There are a lot of myths floating around about lip fillers and injectables, but just know they are safe in the right hands and have been tested for many years.

For those who would like to know more about procedural options, check out our practiceand read about our services.

At Atlanta Face and Body, we ensure that patients are educated and informed about their options. We strive to provide the best experience for turning back the clock to youthful, invigorated skin.

See what Atlanta Face and Body can accomplish for you! 

Dermal fillers lips of woman in spa salon with beautician.

 

Lip enhancements have been all the rage since the 90s, and tons of celebrities boast about their plumped lips. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, lip enhancements have increased by 50% in the last six years.

However, there’s a new trend on the rise. Lip reduction is taking over from lip enhancement. All the craze with thinner lips started in Asia as far back as a decade ago. It is now even more popular in the western world.

Read on to learn why this trend is becoming so insanely popular, and what’s really about!

Why So Popular?

According to Thailand-based dermatologist Dr. Nuttae Nuttapon, “Asian men and women typically prefer Caucasian facial features, which are narrower cheekbones, deeper eye sockets and thinner lips. Nowadays the trend has shifted to prefer thicker lips following the fame of some Hollywood celebrities who have sexy, full lips.”

As Asia slowly shifts to the Kylie Jenner plump-lip archetype, lip reduction is gaining more and more popularity in the Western world! A cultural flip? An emergent beauty phenomenon? Who knows, but whatever the reason is, lip reduction is here and gaining popularity statewide with each passing month, if we are to believe thousands of Instagram tags.

Oh, and it’s not only women who are rushing to reduce their lips. Many recent articles point out that more men go to plastic surgeons to adjust the size of their lips.

Considering lip reduction? Contact one or more qualified facial plastic surgeons to discuss the procedure and ask questions, especially if you’ve had lip augmentation. This will help you make an informed decision whether this surgery is right for you.

Lip Reduction and You

Lip reduction is a minimally invasive surgical procedure aimed at creating a smaller, thinner pout through redefining the lip line and selectively removing skin from the lips. It’s not painful and it’s not dangerous, but it’s still a surgical procedure.

The main aim is to achieve a more desirable proportion between your lips and the rest of your face. It can be beneficial for people who feel their lips are too large for their face, as well as anyone who is feeling self-conscious about the size of their lips.

Main candidates for lip reduction surgery include patients who have had lip augmentation in the past and are not satisfied with the results. If you augmented your lips in the past, you might require a special procedure to get them thinned again. Make sure to give all the details to your plastic surgeon.

What’s Going to Happen?

Lower and upper lip reduction is an outpatient surgical procedure. It’s done with local anesthetic and typically takes less than 30 minutes per lip. You just relax on a doctor’s bed, receive local anesthesia and wait a bit for each lip to be done.

As every patient is unique and has different needs, incisions and stitches are tailored to the type of reduction desired. Your plastic surgeon will use dissolvable sutures that will harmlessly dissolve in time as the incisions heal, leaving behind no permanent marks. Dissolvable sutures are completely safe and used in a range of medical procedures.

As all stitches are treated by our bodies as foreign substances, our bodies act to destroy them or otherwise expel them. Dissolvable stitches are made by natural materials (including collagen, which you might recognize from lip enhancement!), which the body can break down with relative ease.

So, by the time the incisions have sufficiently healed, the stitches have started dissolving, leaving behind no scar marks or inflammation. Stitches will completely dissolve when your wound has healed enough.

If for some reason the stitches won’t dissolve completely, your plastic surgeon can safely and easily remove them. You will obviously need an extra visit for that!

Depending on your particular needs and the desired outcome, surgery may be performed on the lower lip, the upper lip or both. It’s safe and convenient to have both your lips done in one visit, as long as your plastic surgeon says it’s OK. That’s because anesthesia is local and each lip won’t take more than an hour.

Recovery and Your New Lips

Immediately after surgery, you may experience some swelling, bruising, redness and mild discomfort. This is natural and manageable with pain medication and ice bags until the pain subsides.

You won’t have any particular problems eating or drinking. Your plastic surgeon might give you a few reasonable pointers and restrictions for the first few days. Remember that these are all done for your own good and to maximize the positive impact of your lip reduction surgery.

The stitches can be removed as soon as a week after the procedure and you can return to work as long as you feel comfortable with your new appearance. Even after the stitches are off, your lips will continue to heal over the next few months. This will gradually lead to your desired outcome.

Immediately after the procedure, your lips will be smaller and more proportionate to the rest of your face. This new balance will boost your confidence and make you feel more comfortable with the appearance of your lips. Enjoy your new, thinner lips!

Thinking about Lip Reduction Surgery?

As with all cosmetic procedures, it pays to do your own research first. Since we’re talking about your own body, it’s important to focus on quality rather than inexpensive solutions.

The procedure is easier than many other cosmetic surgeries, though it is somewhat pricier than lip augmentation. If you feel that you need lip reduction, contact us at Atlanta Face and Body to schedule your free consultation.

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Can you believe that skincare products make up the largest percentage of the cosmetic industry?

This makes sense when we all want to have a great appearance. But are you struggling with where to begin? Or maybe you have tried a few options, but need something new?

Ever heard of microneedling? Keep reading to see why you need to introduce this procedure into your life for perfect, flawless skin.

The Basics – What Exactly is Microneedling

Hearing ‘needle’ in any treatment geared toward your face may sound scary. But relax!

It is a procedure that uses a tool that has very tiny needles on one end. Technicians adjust these needles between 0.5mm and 2.5mm.

Such adjustments allow for shallow or deep penetration of the skin. The smallest setting will poke holes in only the superficial layer of skin, called the stratum cornea.

Some may refer to the process as precise injury. Your body reacts as it always does with an injury: it moves to heal itself. This process stimulates collagen for strength and elastin for firmness.

Generally, your technician will cleanse your face and then apply a serum. Next, they will roll over your skin, pushing the serum into the holes created from the microneedling. Another layer of serum is sometimes applied at the end.

Many sessions are done about four to six weeks apart from one another.

Usually, anyone can have the procedure performed. People that have active infections, lesions, or trouble healing should be cautious. These people should always consult with their doctor before seeking treatment.

But What about Pain?

The procedure should not be painful. Your technician will use a topical anesthetic.

After your procedure and during recovery, you may have some facial redness lasting for about a day. Most people resume their normal daily activities immediately!

It provides benefits like fractional laser treatments do, but with less downtime.

Who Should Consider this Treatment?

Treatment can target a wide variety of issues. This can leave you with flawless skin.

It can be used for different types of scars. The process can help with both the appearance and texture of scars from injuries or even acne.

Treatments can dramatically improve the appearance of atrophic (dented) acne scars. It is important to note that any active breakouts, especially of cystic acne, should be cleared up before going in for a treatment.

Getting treatment over breakouts could actually spread the bacteria. This would make your acne worse.

People who find issue with their large pores or fine lines can also find benefits with a few treatments. By stimulating collagen, these issues can be a thing of the past! This also applies to people wishing to minimize any skin wrinkles.

These treatments can also help with skin tone, color, and texture. The more skin ages, the longer it takes for skin cells to be renewed. Using microneedling helps keep the color, tone, and texture looking great!

Hyperpigmentation, including sun spots, is also an issue that can be treated.

Other problems or conditions that can benefit from treatment include loose skin and stretch marks.

Not Limited to the Face

While microneedling is most frequently done on the face, it can also be done on other areas of the body!

The procedure can be done on any location where the skin needs to be thickened, especially where stretch marks may exist. This includes legs, chest, and butt.

For example, a common complaint is the appearance of cellulite. Cellulite is dimpling of the skin. It occurs mostly the buttocks and back of legs.

Cellulite occurs from connective tissue structure changes and loss of skin elasticity.

Lack of circulation and a sedentary lifestyle can contribute to cellulite. Cellulite has nothing to do with being overweight. Exercise typically cannot rid the skin of cellulite either.

How Much or How Many?

Many people ask how often they can receive treatments. The answer will depend on many factors.

How severe the issue is will impact the number of sessions required for results. Client’s current skin regimen will also impact this.

If someone generally is happy with their skin and takes good care of it, they can receive a microneedling treatment every three to six months.

However, if someone wishes to treat severe acne scarring for example, they will require a more aggressive treatment.

They may need to come once a month for four to six months. After that, they can usually just come in once or twice a year for touch-ups.

What to Do after a Treatment

In order to achieve desired results, there are a few things to keep in mind after a treatment. It is best to avoid wearing any make up the remainder of the day.

It is also suggested to avoid any harsh or strong products you usually use such as retinol.

Tell me about the Results!

Results can show up after the first treatment. Additional, more long lasting effects will usually occur after multiple treatments. Improvements typically continue for six to twelve months.

Some of you may be familiar with at-home versions of microneedling. You can purchase various tools at differing price points.

At-home microneedling rollers (sometimes called derma rollers) use a roller ball mechanism. These are similar to those used in perfume tubes.

Like professional tools, these are designed to prick or minimally injure the skin’s surface. You may feel a prickly sensation.

Be cautious when considering at-home treatments. Typically, results using at-home method will never be as strong as when treatments are done by a professional.

This is because products sold directly to consumers for at-home treatments have the shortest possible needles. As mentioned below, this means they will only ever penetrate the superficial layer of skin.

There is also a greater risk for infection or permanent damage when doing treatments at home.

As you can see, microneedling can benefit everyone in some way. It can be a great addition to anyone’s skincare routine seeking perfect, flawless skin.

Like what you have read so far? Want to know more?

Contact us for a FREE consultation!

 

 

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Woman's Torso

Ultherapy (ultrasound therapy) is a non-invasive treatment to improve tighten and lift loose skin (and wrinkles) in the face and other parts of the body. It has become quite a popular alternative to treatments such as Botox because of its natural stimulation.

Ultherapy is FDA-approved and now offered by thousands of medical professionals. Hundreds of thousands of individuals have undergone this procedure since its introduction.

This out-patient procedure is a short but effective way to roll back the tides of time. The cutting-edge technology behind this micro lift does have its benefits and drawbacks.

In this article, we will cover eight different things you should know about this revolutionary lift procedure.

Ready to remove five or more years off those aging looks? Read on…

8 Things to Know about Ultherapy

Ultherapy is a new way of rejuvenating the body and giving a younger appearance. This procedure may have flown under the radar for many. It’s now gone mainstream. It is worthwhile to consider if going under the scalpel or receiving injections aren’t one’s cup of tea.

1. There is pain

The pain threshold for each person is different. Most that have undergone the treatment claim to pain and discomfort during the procedure.

The pain spikes when the device is active. Individuals report feeling tingling and sharp pains in the treated areas. The face will twitch but the pain subsides when the device is removed from the area.

It’s common to receive local anesthesia to mitigate the pain during the procedure.

2. Costs are a little high

The costs depend on what’s treated. Increase the surface area and increase the amount charged — it will also depend on the provider. Most individuals stick to having the face done since this is the most visible area and the one that will show best results.

Costs fall into the $2,000 – $4,000 range for the full face, though, and can be paid through financial options.

3. There may be swelling

Swelling is common to experience up to two weeks after the procedure. Yet, many bounce back after a few days. Some experience longer-than-usual swelling. These are outliers and aren’t representative of the whole.

If the swelling is present (and persists) there are a few ways to help:

  • Applying ice packs to the area
  • Taking an antihistamine

Call the practice and explain the swelling situation if it persists beyond 72 hours if the above help does not show promise.

4. And possible side effects

Side effects are rare with ultherapy and are low-to-mild if they do appear. These side effects are usually reported as a sense of numbness in the treated areas that may last for a few days. The numbness may create problems with motor functions in the area but they will subside.

Swelling (as noted above) and bruising are common but are expected.

Long-term side effect concerns such as hyperpigmentation and hypopigmentation have been discussed. Yet, these don’t seem to be present in the months and years after the procedure according to most practitioners.

The risk of nerve injury is also non-existent when the procedure is done professionally.

5. Results take time

Full results are not visible after the procedure unlike others such as Botox.

Results vary depending on the size of the procedure and health of the individual. The average falls into the 2-3 month period while some may need to wait around 6 months to see the final outcome.

A before & after set of photos is taken to see results.

The first few days there is tenderness and not much to see. A few weeks will pass and the skin will begin to soften and give a younger appearance. Within a couple of months, the face will tighten further. By its end, wrinkles and sags will be a thing of the past.

6. It’s not for everyone

It’s at the discretion of the individual to decide whether this procedure is right for them. The medical professional will have their say as well.

Generally, younger individuals (in their late-30’s and mid-40’s) haven’t quite reached the age where skin laxity is pronounced. The body continues to age and hasn’t quite settled into its “aged” look.

The procedure is better suited for those with pronounced skin elasticity and wrinkles (ages 50+) but again… it’s up to the patient. If they feel the need to do the procedure then they’re welcome to move forward with it.

7. Treatment is often a one-time thing

The nice thing about this procedure is that it’s usually a one-time thing meaning the results will last for many years after a single visit.

Some individuals may opt for a secondary procedure after waiting the appropriate amount of time. Yet, it’s not necessary since results are often very positive and effective on the first go around.

8. Aftercare is a breeze

Because there isn’t much one has to do after the procedure is done. The individual goes about their normal day and routine without the need to apply creams and other products to the treated areas.

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The medical community is still learning this procedure and consumers are still a little weary on this new lift method. It’s going to be a game-changer in the business of age rejuvenation.

A Few Stories

Before you go we would like to share a few stories we’ve found around the Web about individual’s experience with the procedure. These are personal accords that share what they expected going in, how it went, and what it was like after.

Take a gander at these stories:

Ready to take the plunge? Get in touch!

Schedule a free consultation today or give us a call, 678-888-3223, and learn how Dr. Elizabeth Whitaker can help remove years from your age with skin tightening procedures and other treatments.

 

SculpSure Marks for Woman's Torso

How SculpSure Can Help With Your Fat Reduction Goals

Having trouble reducing stubborn fat on your body?

If you have issues controlling your weight, you are not alone.

Almost two-thirds of adults over the age of 20 living in the United States are considered to be either obese or overweight and that number increases to almost 75% when considering only the male population.

If you are among the millions of Americans looking to reduce body fat, we may have the answer for you.

Sculpsure, one of the latest techniques in banishing fat, is helping people to get their bodies back and look their best.

Read on to learn more about Sculpsure and find out if it might be right for you!

The Skinny on America’s Problem with Fat:

The number of Americans that struggle with maintaining their health and BMI (Body Mass Index) seems to be growing larger every year.

You might have been struggling to control your weight for many years. Often, the problem begins as early as childhood.

Research indicates that weight gain has become a more prominent issue among our youth. About one in three U.S. children ages 2-9 are considered overweight or obese.

There are a great number of repercussions that arise from being overweight or obese.

Issues Associated With Weight Control:

Some of the issues that are influenced by higher body fat ratios include the following:

  • Diabetes
  • Heart disease
  • Stroke
  • Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
  • Certain types of cancer
  • High blood pressure
  • High cholesterol
  • Osteoarthritis
  • Joints, bones, and muscles are more susceptible to damage due to extra pressure and exertion. This includes sprains, breaks, and fractures.

Additionally, these individuals may face problems other problems that have been linked to being overweight or obese.

Psychological, Social and Emotional Issues Related to Weight Control:

  • Depression
  • Isolation
  • Social stigmatization and bullying by others
  • Negative self-esteem
  • Negative body image
  • Anorexia and bulimia
  • Low energy, lack of will
  • Inability to participate or perform activities that you enjoy or necessary tasks involved with day-to-day living
  • Refusal to take part in activities because you are embarrassed by your body
  • Damage to body systems due to crash or fad diets and trends

The physical, social, psychological and emotional effects of being overweight can be devastating.

If you have struggled with your weight, you may have experienced some of the issues listed above.

Once you begin gaining weight, it can seem impossible to make progress towards losing stubborn fat.

This becomes even more likely if you begin to experience a negative self-image because of your weight. Then you may not feel like making the extra effort it takes to get rid of unwanted pounds. It can easily become a vicious cycle of psychological and physical problems.

It’s not unusual to become frustrated with losing weight. But, it is important to your mental and physical health to not give up.

You may not be severely overweight. You might just need a boost to lose that extra fat that won’t budge. If this is the case for you, you can still benefit from Sculpsure.

Sculpsure can work for people of all body types. It has been used on both male and female patients.

If you aren’t happy with how you look in the mirror, there is help available.

Are you ready to banish stubborn fat, get healthy and look your best?

If your answer is yes, then you might benefit from the advantages of Sculpsure.

What is Sculpsure?

Sculpsure is the one of its kind advanced technology technique that is helping men and women lose unwanted weight fast.

It is non-invasive and can banish 24% of body fat in just one twenty five minute procedure!

Not only that, Sculpsure has the unique ability to target specific problem areas for precision to those areas that bother you most. And, it tightens, smooths, and firms your skin’s appearance.

Sculpsure finally gives you a way to lose weight, transform your body and produce real results without surgery.

The procedure can be done in the office and has been proven to be safe and effective for participants.

You don’t have to live with unsightly saddlebags, flabby arms, and thighs or that embarrassing muffin top any longer. You can get your body back and be on your way to a healthier you in less than the time that you would spend on just one workout.

What to Expect:

If you are as intrigued by the procedure as most people are, you might have some questions regarding the recovery time, patient approval rating, and how long it takes to see the results.

We’ve got the answers to some of your most basic questions about the procedure, but you can always set up a free consultation to find out all the details.

You can expect the professional staff to perform the in-office procedure in less than an hour.

Once the procedure is complete, you don’t have to go through a painful or lengthy recovery like you would in similar procedures. You can get back to living your normal life in no time.

Patients that have had the procedure have reported a 95% results approval rating. 

Sculpsure begins to work immediately, burning fat and blasting stubborn cellulite.

You will see real results in less than 30 days. After just 12 weeks, patients experience optimal benefits and report seeing a significant change in their body’s appearance.

Where You Can Find Out More and Schedule Your Appointment:

Atlanta’s premier plastic surgeons at Atlanta Face and Body are the first in the Atlanta area to offer this advanced weight loss technology.

Dr. Elizabeth and her staff go the extra mile to ensure that you are comfortable from the moment that you walk in their office.

Dr. Elizabeth has won many of Atlanta’s most prestigious physician awards.

Whether you live in the Atlanta area, or out of town, the professionals at Atlanta Face and Body can set up a convenient time to answer your questions and schedule an appointment that works for you.

Even patients that live outside of Atlanta will find that making the trip is well worth it.

Click here to schedule your free consultation today!

Reclaim your body and feel great about yourself and your health!

 

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April 21, 2017—Elizabeth Whitaker, M.D., F.A.C.S., recently announced a newly-redesigned website to represent Atlanta Face & Body. Prospective and former patients and those who are simply wanting to learn more about the benefits of Cosmetic Surgical procedures are encouraged to visit AtlantaFaceAndBody.com and browse around the site.

“The new website is a culmination of our new branding efforts,” explains Dr. Elizabeth. “We’re wanting to be known for more than our outstanding reputation for facelifts. We do so much more now and, now, we have an online presence that matches what we do from a capability standpoint. We’re really excited about our new look.”

Atlanta Face & Body is lead by Dr. Elizabeth Whitaker, one of the most experienced facial plastic surgeons in the United States. She has performed more than 4,000 facelifts and, additionally, offers more facial and body contouring procedures. Visit their website or call (678) 888-3223 to find out more!

FDA-Approved, Virtually Pain-Free Injections with minimal to no bruising.

Non-invasive light devices and filler materials have remarkably influenced the efficacy and popularity of hand rejuvenation.

At Atlanta Face & Body, we have incorporated the newest techniques and technologies into our practice which allows us to remove skin damage and restore lost volume for our clients–essentially setting back the “hands” of time.

For more information about our hand injection techniques, please call or email us at the information below. We have been waiting to hear from you.