SLIMLIPO LASER LIPOSUCTION FOR MEN

As the peak of bathing suit season quickly approaches, women aren’t the only ones concerned about the way they look in their swimwear. Men are just as concerned about their looks contrary to what popular culture depicts.

Just as women do, men can struggle with problem areas. Even through a healthy diet and regular regimen of exercise, problem areas such as the chest, neck, back and “love handles” can vex men. Social situations where a man must wear a bathing suit or be without a shirt can make them feel awkward or uncomfortable, never allowing them to fully engage or feel relaxed.

SlimLipo is one of the most popular procedures at our plastic surgery center in Jacksonville and is utilized by both men and women who are seeking to remove fat and tighten skin in unwanted areas of the body. This revolutionary laser liposuction treats the most common problem areas for fat collection effectively with little-to-no downtime.

Dr. Lewis Obi continues to remain a leader among plastic surgeons internationally in the area of laser lipolysis (Palomar’s SlimLipo laserplatform). As with female patients, men may have these procedures performed without general anesthesia with the patient returning to work in two days.

SlimLipo for men is effective in the following areas (but not limited to):

The Neck

The Chest (Gynecomastia)

The Abdomen and Waist

Axillary Hyperhidrosis (excessive underarm sweating)

 

HAPPY MEMORIAL DAY

We all think of Memorial Day as the beginning of summer and Labor Day as the ending weekend of summer and typically mark these events with get-togethers and bar-b-ques. But not many people know that the first Memorial Day was celebrated on May 1, 1865 in remembrance of the Civil War dead. By the 20th century, Memorial Day had been extended to honor all Americans that died in all wars. 

A word of caution for those planning to spend this weekend on our beautiful, sun-drenched beaches on the First Coast. Dr. Lewis Obi reminds you to refer to his April 17th blog regarding sunscreens and skin precautions and to keep yourself and loved ones safe from the harmful rays.

On behalf of everyone from Obi Plastic Surgery Clinic, we wish you a safe and happy Memorial Day Weekend!

DR. LEWIS OBI, SPEAKER AT TWO ADVANCED SYMPOSIA

Dr. Lewis Obi was one of the primary speakers at the Advanced Symposium on Skin Aesthetics and Body Sculpting held at the Marriott Marquis in Times Square on Saturday, May 19, 2012.  In his 183 slides and videos, Dr. Obi shared his results of more than 500 patients over a 42 month period. Advanced surgical and non-surgical procedures were shared with his large audience of aesthetic surgeons from the U.S. and abroad.

He is scheduled to present again at another Advanced Aesthetic Symposium on June 9 in Fort Lauderdale. Last year Dr. Lewis Obi lectured at six major symposia and meetings. He is not only active in sharing his experience with his colleagues but he is currently involved with many active clinical research projects in the area of stem cell fat and lasers.

VITALIZE PEEL AND CLARISONIC: A PATIENT'S TESTIMONIAL

A patient of the Renaissance, Center for Cosmetic Renewal sent this email to us, expressing thanks for helping to clear her problematic adult acne. She has been plagued with oily and acne-prone skin most of her life and found relief with our Vitalize Peel. Here is her story:

Patient with acne before Clarisonic

My entire life I’ve been plagued with problematic skin. Dry, oily, flakey, bumpy, pebbley…you name it, I’ve had it. My middle school years were the worst. I had oily skin, acne and braces to boot. By high school, my skin cleared up (and the braces came off) and things were looking good for me. I still dealt with the occasional blemish but it was nothing a little dab of concealer couldn’t handle. By my senior year, my skin had become the oiliest it had ever been – not to mention my pores seemed to have grown 10 times the normal size – and I couldn’t figure out why. I drank plenty of water and tried to not even touch my face, yet the oil and pore size plagued me, even through my college years.

Having Acne in Your 30s

Flash forward to my 30s. Literally, overnight, I started to develop acne again. It seemed as if my skin had a meeting and said, “Hey, let’s get a giant cluster of pimples on both cheeks near the jawline, add a few on the forehead and let’s go ahead and throw in a bunch of blackheads on the nose and under the eyes.”

About three months ago, I made an appointment to see Dr. Obi. He told me that when some women age, it becomes harder for them to exfoliate and get rid of dead skin cells and that since my sebaceous glands (oil glands) were putting in double time, it was creating the perfect storm of bacteria in my pores – hence my acne. He recommended that I make an appointment with Denise at the med spa and have her give me a thorough cleaning.

My Experience with the Vitalize Peel

Denise, probably one of the nicest people you’ll ever meet, strongly recommended a Vitalize Peel. She warned me that I would peel and I would peel GOOD. And she was right. The peel itself lightly removes the top layer of skin cells – along with any disgusting gunk that is clogging up your pores – and gently flakes away over a period of a few days. I can honestly say there was a bit of a sting during the application process, but nothing I couldn't handle and it was over within in a minute or two. I had my peel on a Thursday and by Friday my skin was GLOWING! But then Saturday I woke up and the flakes started and continued all the way through Monday. The flakes were easily concealable by good moisturizer.

Investing in the Clarisonic

Denise recommended that after I peeled completely, that I should invest in a Clarisonic. I was a little hesitant at first because of the price but I had often heard from friends that the “only problem you’ll have with your Clarisonic is you’ll wish you bought one sooner.” So I went ahead, bit the bullet and bought one from Dr. Obi's med spa.

 It’s been about two months since my Vitalize Peel and I can honestly say it’s been about two months of pure skin bliss! Never in my entire life of purchasing beauty products (and if you’re a woman, you know that’s a lot of dough) have I ever come across a product so wonderful – well, besides my Chi. I have gotten compliments from friends saying how I look like I’m glowing. And the best part is, I don’t know how, but my pores have not only shrunk in size but my oil glands have settled. I don’t get that “oil sheen” until about 5 pm everyday – whereas I used to get it about an hour after washing and cleaning my face.

If I can make any recommendations for women suffering from the same skin issues, it’s to do the same as I did. Invest the time and money. It’s well worth! And I wouldn’t recommend anyone but Denise and the gang at the Renaissance Center for Cosmetic Renewal to do so.
Images courtesy of Clarisonic.com

CELEBRATING NATIONAL WOMEN’S HEALTH WEEK ALL YEAR ROUND

Dreamer in the Garden
of Aesclepius by Daniel

As National Women’s Health Week draws to an end, we encourage women to not just observe their health once a year but to do so year-round. This includes encouraging the women in our lives to do the same.

Taking the necessary steps in the right direction can prevent many unwanted diseases and health risks. According to the CDC, heart disease, cancer and stroke are among the leading causes of death in women – all which can be prevented by taking necessary preventative action. Here are a few steps to improving physical and mental well-being, according to the womenshealth.gov web site: 

• Visit a health care professional to receive regular checkups and preventive screenings.
  These types of screenings can catch the early signs and even prevent breast cancer, colon cancer, diabetes, heart disease and more.
• Get active.
  At least 30 minutes of physical activity per day can aide in the prevention of heart disease, stroke, diabetes, depression and more. Not only does physical activity improve mood and mental well-being, but it aides in keeping you fit and in-shape.
• Eat healthy.
  Eating healthy should be a way of life. Keeping your body powered with fruits, veggies, whole grains and low-fat dairy will aide in the prevention of disease and illness. And drinking at least eight to 12 glasses of water per day, depending on your body weight, sustains healthy organs, skin and mind.
• Pay attention to mental health, including getting enough sleep and managing stress.
  Mental health plays a key role in our health. Mental diseases range from gambling addictions to eating disorders and can all affect one’s overall well-being. Seeking help for ourselves and others is extremely important.
• Avoid unhealthy behaviors, such as smoking and not wearing a seatbelt or bicycle helmet.
  It’s so simple to take the necessary steps in the right direction to keep our bodies and health safe. Making the right choices on a daily basis is an important factor in women’s health.
• Protect your skin.
  Melanomas and skin cancer rates are on the rise. Wear protective clothing and unharmful sunscreen when enjoying outdoor activities.
•  Choose the right vitamins and supplements.
  Choosing organics whole foods and consuming the right vitamins and minerals can assist your body in performing at an optimal level. Read more about Dr. Obi's suggestions for a healthy lifestyle and being fit at any age.

Let’s encourage every woman we know to stay healthy and stay active! To learn more about National Women’s Health Week and more tips, visit the womenshealth.gov web site.

JACKSONVILLE'S FIRST & ONLY ACCURATE & CUSTOMIZED LASER TREATMENTS PROVIDED BY SKINTEL MELANIN READER

In the past, patients opting for laser treatments have had to rely on the knowledge and expertise of their aesthetician to receive the best level of treatment for their skin type when it came to any laser treatment. Whether it was for fractional skin resurfacing, permanent hair reduction or photofacial treatments, aestheticians relied on the Fitzpatrick Skin Type evaluation as well as observation and account of patient.

Skintel Melanin Reader Provides Accurate Skin Reading Results

Through the use of the Skintel Melanin Reader, aestheticians can confidently treat patients knowing that the patient will receive the optimal level of treatment required to enhance their beauty or achieve their aesthetic goals. This revolutionary skin reader removes any guesswork for an aesthetician, leaving him or her to treat patients accurately with poise.

How the Skintel Melanin Reader Works

The Skintel Melanin Reader is a handheld device that is placed on an area of your skin by your aesthetician to read your Melanin index value. Wavelengths of light are then reflected, painlessly, onto your skin and back into the reader to give an accurate reading of your skin type and what level of laser you should be treated with.

"The Skintel Melanin Reader measures the skin diffuse reflectance at three unique wavelengths of light" from Palomar Medical Technology, Inc.

Skintel Melanin Reader Provides Accurate Results for ICON Aesthetic Laser System

The Skintel Melanin Reader is utilized in conjunction with the ICON laser to optimally treat patients and to meet their aesthetic goal in a timely manner verses the traditional forms of laser treatments. After an aesthetician takes a skin reading, he or she then sets the ICON at the correct level of treatment – taking out all the guesswork that could lead to under-treatment or lengthy treatments.

The Obi Plastic Surgery Clinic is the only plastic surgery center in Jacksonville that offers the Skintel Melanin Reader as well as the ICON Aesthetic Laser System. We encourage you to contact our med spa, Renaissance, Center for Cosmetic Renewal, to learn more about this revolutionary product.

PALOVIA SKIN RENEWING LASER: THE AT-HOME LASER PERFECT FOR POST-SURGICAL PATIENTS

With the over-saturation of at-home laser treatments, it’s easy to become discouraged not knowing if the results promised are true or not. With the breakthrough at-home laser, PaloVia, it promises to provide optimal results and more.

In the past, achieving any type of skin renewal result or fine line reduction was only obtainable at a doctor’s office. Now, these same results can be achieved through Palomar’s recent release of their PaloVia system - the only FDA-cleared at-home laser clinically proven to reduce fine lines and wrinkles around the eyes.

How PaloVia Works

The PaloVia Skin Renewing Laser works below the surface – where lotions and creams don’t reach – to treat where wrinkles form. Short pulses of micro-fine laser light reach deeply into the skin’s sub-layers, treating the aging support structure. Then the body’s natural healing process sweeps away older, damaged tissue and rebuilds it with fresh, new collagen and elastin.

In clinical studies, patients who used the PaloVia just three to four minutes per day for one month showed dramatic results in the reduction of eye wrinkles.

PaloVia for Post-Operative Facelifts, Breast & Abdomen Surgery

We often encourage our post-operative facelift patients to use the PaloVia for quicker healing of scars as well as treatment of residual fine lines. Scars of the face, breasts and abdomen heal quicker with the use of daily treatments with this device. And the best of all, the PaloVia is very easy to use and only requires a few minutes of your time per day. An off label use recently discovered by Dr. Lewis Obi was the relief of muscle pain resulting from a karate injury.

Watch the following video for a demonstration of the PaloVia handheld skin renewal laser to how easy it is to operate at-home.

If you would like to purchase your very own PaloVia and to learn more information, we encourage you to contact our Renaissance, Center for Cosmetic Renewal and discover all the benefits of PaloVia.

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY

On behalf of everyone at Obi Plastic Surgery Clinic, we would like to wish all the mothers, grandmothers, sisters, aunts and cousins a wonderful Mother's Day!

We appreciate you more than you will ever know!

LASER HAIR REMOVAL WITH ICON LASER, A REVOLUTIONARY LASER FOR ALL HAIR & SKIN TYPES

We all want to look our best, especially in the summertime. Whether we achieve this by eating right or working out - a good perspective on our own body image is key to a better quality of life.

Unwanted, troublesome or embarrassing body and facial hair can be a nuisance - and waxing and shaving are temporary and can be painful. This is why every year more and more people choose to have laser hair removal treatment. Through laser hair removal, you can eliminate the need to shave and wax on a daily basis. Men and women alike enjoy the benefits of laser hair removal immensely! Whether it’s upper lip laser hair removal, chest, legs or bikini line - these treatments are safe and proven to have long-lasting results.

So, Does Laser Hair Removal Really Work?

With so many false claims, special creams, at-home lasers and “overnight results” treatments, it’s easy to get discouraged and wonder if laser hair removal really works.

Yes, laser hair removal really works, if performed by a professional and in a licensed medical spa. In the past, traditional laser platforms were used to treat only dark, course hairs on particular skin types. And consequently, treatment sessions were longer and a more painful. And still, many laser hair removal clinics still use this antiquated technology.

ICON: A Revolutionary Breakthrough on Laser Hair Removal for All Skin and Hair Types

Recently, a revolutionary laser platform was unveiled by Palomar Medical that proves to have quicker and long-lasting results for more than just laser hair removal. The Palomar ICON system redefines the standard of light-based cosmetic and dermatologic care by introducing several new enhancements designed to help improve clinical outcomes and treatment satisfaction. Every hair and skin type – this includes red heads and blondes – can enjoy the benefit of a quick and painless laser hair removal. And with the utilization of the Skintel Melanin Reader, the laser hair treatment process level is determined by providing the aesthetician with an accurate reading of the patient’s Melanin index level. This removes the need for traditional skin type evaluations and patient’s account of sun exposure. This smart tool is unlike any other technology on the market.

 The ICON laser is used for:

• ALL hair and skin types, including blondes and red heads
• removal of unwanted hair
• acne scarring
• laser skin resurfacing
• laser wrinkle reduction
• laser scar and stretch mark treatment
• permanent hair reduction
• vessel and pigment clearance
• leg vein clearance

The benefits of the ICON laser hair removal system include:

• treats larger areas in less time.
• is quicker and less painful.
• is overall more affective than traditional systems.

Quick Laser Hair Removal Facts

• Through ICON’s Intense Pulsed Light (IPL), we can target hair in large areas such as the back, legs and chest and in smaller areas such as the underarms, upper lip, face and bikini lines.
• Laser hair removal is not very painful at all. We tell our patients it feels like a series of extremely light rubber band pops.
• According to Webmd.com, 90% of patients see a more permanent hair loss after an average of three to five sessions.

The Best Laser Hair Removal in Jacksonville

The ICON Laser is available exclusively at the Renaissance, Center for Cosmetic Renewal. Not only does the ICON laser overshadow most laser hair removal systems, but this innovative laser treats all skin and hair types – which most traditional laser hair removal treatments don’t.

If you’ve considered laser hair removal, but you’re not sure if it’s right for you, give us a call at the Renaissance, Center for Cosmetic Renewal. 904.399.0905

We’ve treated hundreds of laser hair removal patients, each with positive results. We’ll be happy to answer any questions you have and discuss your options when it comes to laser hair removal for your body.

BREAST AUGMENTATIONS: QUESTIONS TO CONSIDER BEFORE BREAST IMPLANT SURGERY

A breast augmentation can be a life changing decision. Your self esteem will change, the way others perceive you will change as well as the way your clothes fit. It’s important that you speak with a board certified plastic surgeon and discuss all your options thoroughly. It’s also important that he or she understands your goals. You should be sure that all of your questions are answered and you are in agreement with your plastic surgeon’s final recommendations. More than one consultation may be required (at no extra expense to you) in order assure that you are totally comfortable with your surgeon’s recommendations. 

Dr. Lewis Obi, one of the leading plastic surgeons in Jacksonville, has compiled a list of questions you should consider before your enlargement surgery.

1. Is the plastic surgeon board certified?

Ask if your plastic surgeon is board certified and how many breast augmentations he or she has performed in the past. An inexperienced plastic surgeon or non board certified plastic surgeon should be a concern to you. Make sure the plastic surgeon has comprehensive experience with both saline and silicone gel implants. And experience with all of the surgical approaches available (areolar, inframammary, axillary, etc.) is a must.

2. Questions you should ask or your plastic surgeon should address include:

• What type of implant is recommended? Saline versus gel, textured versus smooth, round versus anatomic, etc.
• What is the best surgical approach? The surgical approach may affect positioning behind muscles, symmetry, cleavage, etc. You and your plastic surgeon should thoroughly discuss your options for breast implants and surgical approach when it comes to your augmentation surgery.
• What type of breast implant is the safest? Any surgery comes with risks, but your plastic surgeon should thoroughly address any complications that may arise from breast implants.
• When will I have to replace my breast implants?
• What are the short and long term risks of breast augmentation?
• How long have you been performing breast enlargement procedures?

3. Breast Implant Size and Symmetry with Your Body Type.

Tell your plastic surgeon what cup size you have in mind for your breast augmentation surgery and do not hesitate to present magazine or Internet pictures of what you like and do not like. Size is a matter of personal choice but an experienced plastic surgeon, such as Dr. Lewis Obi, will consider anatomic issues. This includes your size, body frame dimensions and most importantly, achieving a natural result. An important part of the consultation is to share breast augmentation photographs of similar patients with you in order for you to make a good decision as to shape and size.  

4. Where will the breast implant incision be and will there be scarring?

Ask where your incision will be made and if the scar will be minimal. An experienced plastic surgeon will know the best place to make an incision for a breast augmentation and will know how to minimize the scar after.

5. Will I be safe during the breast implant surgery?

Safety considerations in terms of anesthesia, licensure of the surgery center (preferably single specialty) and track record regarding infections are important considerations.

6. What type of post-operative care will I receive after the augmentation surgery?

What type of care and rest will be needed after your breast augmentation is very important. Typically, a patient will have to restrict almost all physical activities for up to one week after a breast augmentation. An experienced plastic surgeon should make sure the patient receives the proper instructions and post-operative care instructions before and after her breast augmentation. 

Be sure to write down all of your questions and thoroughly review them during your consultation. An experienced plastic surgeon understands that patients have concerns and will do their best to ease a patient's mind. There is no such thing as asking the wrong question or asking too many questions. It's your body and your personal choice. 

GLOWING SUMMER SKIN CARE TIPS TO KEEP YOUR SKIN HEALTHY, YEAR-ROUND

Proper skin care is one of the most important ways to not only take care of yourself, but to maintain lasting, youthful looks. Now that summer is here, we all want to have that beautiful beach-bronzed skin – but at what cost? Every year, the rate of melanomas and skin cancer increase at an alarming rate as a result of not taking proper measures with the care of the largest organ in the body - our skin. Therefore we would like to share some professional advice in the area of skin care.

The Top Ten Skin Care Tips for This Summer

1. Ingestion of water will not only protect the skin from ultraviolet exposure but also will prevent dehydration and maintain skin moisturization. We recommend eight to 12 glasses of water per day, depending on your body size.
2. Apply a safe sunscreen to your skin every day, even if you are going to only be in the sun for a few minutes. Avoid sunscreens with PABA, benzophenones, cinnamates, salicylates, digalloyl trioleate, oxybenzone and avobenzone – they have been known to be more detrimental than helpful. Read more about harmful sunscreens.
3. Moisturize your face daily! For oily skin and mixed skin complexion patients, consult with our aesthetician regarding moisturizing agents. Avoiding dryness along with the proper sunscreen will provide optimal skin protection. Be sure to use a moisturizer with a safe sunscreen.
4. Supplements of Vitamin D-3 along with other vitamins and antioxidants will fight free radicals and keep your skin looking great all summer long. Tons of fresh fruits, veggies, acai and cacao (YES! Chocolate!) have been proven to be a factor of healthy-looking skin.
5. Wear protective clothing if you’re exposed to the sun if even for short periods of time. We know how easy it is to lose track of time when you’re having fun in the sun. Wearing long- sleeved beach cover-ups and large-brimmed hats will help protect those sensitive areas of your body.
6. Keep an eye on makeup and beauty supplies. If it’s older than 6 months, doesn’t smell right or looks bad – toss it. Make-up sponges and loofahs can hold tons of bacteria that aren’t good for your skin and could worsen your complexion. Making sure your beauty supplies are free of bacteria is one of the keys to healthy skin care!
7. Bumps and ingrown hairs are a nuisance and can be painful. They also can lead to infection, which can cause scarring. We recommend laser hair removal for those pesky dark underarm, upper lip, bikini and chest hairs. This will help you avoid lumps and bumps and will make your skin look smooth and even! Our new state-of-the-art Icon™ laser is the most advanced hair removal device on the market.
8. Don’t just treat your face and arms. Moisturize your whole body! During the summer, you’ll be in shorts and flip flops a lot. Get regular pedicures to keep your feet flake-free and baby soft.
9. Wear your sunglasses! Not only will your sunglasses protect you from harmful UV Rays, but you won’t be squinting as often and you’ll be avoiding those premature crow’s feet lines. UV eye exposure leads to cataracts and other diseases of the eyeball and optic nerve.
10. Indulge in plenty of rest and learn to relax! Your beauty rest is not just a cliche’ - it should be a way of life. Inadequate sleep may be detrimental to your health and affect your visible appearance. Ridding yourself of stress can also result in a positive visible appearance both with your skin as well as your general health.

Renaissance, Center for Cosmetic Renewal™, Jacksonville, FL

At The Renaissance, Center for Cosmetic Renewal, we are all about skin care and body aesthetics. That is why we offer the best sunscreens and skin care treatments in Jacksonville. If you would like to learn more about our skin care products or laser treatments at our med spa in Jacksonville, visit the Renaissance Center at obiplasticsurgery.com. For an appointment or more information, call us at 904-399-0905.

THANK YOU TO EVERYONE THAT ATTENDED THE RED CARPET MOTHER'S DAY EVENT

As usual, we had a wonderful turnout at our annual Mother’s Day Event last night. The entire Obi Plastic Surgery and Renaissance Center staff was in attendance to welcome all of our esteemed patients and guests. Delicious refreshments and fun were enjoyed by all! Our guests and patients also gave our new nurse practitioner, Penny Velie, a very warm welcome, as she was there to meet and greet everyone.

Carole and Dr. Obi

On behalf of our Jacksonville plastic surgery clinic, we would like to thank all of our guests and patients who joined us and wish health, happiness and success for the future!

BREASTS, BODY & BEYOND: DR. LEWIS OBI TO LECTURE IN NEW YORK CITY ON MAY 19, 2012

 

“Breasts, Body and Beyond” will be Dr. Lewis Obi’s topic of discussion at the May 19, 2012 advanced symposium to be held at the Marriott Marquis in Times Square.

His breast augmentation procedure has evolved over decades and is unique in many aspects. With the advent of the SlimLipo platform, scarless breast lifting with the use of lasers may be performed at the time of breast implant insertion. The SlimLipo laser may then simultaneously remove unwanted fat and tighten skin in areas such as the abdomen, waist and thighs.

 

For more information, please visit the Palomar site:

http://www.palomarmedical.com/content/symposium-details/advanced-skin-aesthetics-and-body-contouring-symposium/132.aspx