I have a vision of a tighter, firmer, more youthful complexion. Can you make my dream a reality?
In some ways, our skin is quite similar to the clothing that we cover it with. Your favorite shirt fits perfectly when it was new. However, after many years of wear the elastic is weak, the fabric has grown thin, the fibers have grown weak, and the garment is stretched out of shape. A similar process occurs within the skin, as the collagen network weakens, and laxity increases. Fortunately, Nashville, TN residents have a variety of non-surgical skin tightening solutions available right here at Jack & Jill Aesthetics.
Over the counter skin firming products – do they work?
Store shelves are brimming with skincare products, many of which claim to firm, tighten, and smooth aged skin. Patients often ask if these formulas work. The answer depends on two factors:
First is the product itself; some brands are excellent while others are low-quality and contain impure fillers. When purchasing any skincare item, ask us for advice if you are unsure what is right for you.
Secondly, you need to have realistic expectations, or you will meet with disappointment, even when using the highest quality product. Therapeutic formulas with ingredients such as retinols can nourish skin, helping it stay healthy and subtly fight the progression of aging. However, they will not make a dramatic difference, nor will they correct existing laxity. This is why most retail products are branded as skin firming formulas, not skin tightening formulas.
To truly tighten skin, we must address the root cause of laxity. Skin is composed of several layers. The epidermis is what we see, it is the uppermost layer. Moisturizers and other topical products may seep into the epidermis, introducing therapeutic compounds from the top down. They can help exfoliate, hydrate, and nourish the skin surface. However, skin laxity, or tightening, takes place at a much deeper layer, the dermis.
What is ultrasound skin tightening?
For over half a century, ultrasound energy has been implemented safely and effectively in a variety of medicinal uses. Today, it is a staple of aesthetic medicine, with skin tightening being among the most popular uses.
Ultrasound devices are among the best ways to tighten neck skin, as well as treating the chin, brow, chest, and other areas.
- Some ultrasound devices have been FDA cleared for several treatment areas on the face and neck
- Ultrasound is an excellent choice for patients fighting early signs of aging or seeking prejuvenation
- The procedure may take about 30 minutes or longer, depending on the treatment area
- Full results develop within about three months
What are radiofrequency (RF) treatments?
Devices such as Pellevé work with therapeutic RF energy, which safely passes through the surface layer of skin to target deep tissues where collagen is formed. It is gentle enough for use in delicate areas such as around the eyes, yet it is powerful enough to correct significant skin laxity.
- The FDA has cleared RF devices for treatment of the neck, face, hands, and other areas of the body
- RF is considered safe for all skin types and all skin colors
- There is no downtime and patients typically describe the procedure as painless
- A series of up to six treatments may be needed in order to achieve optimal improvement
- Full results are seen several months after the final RF session
Who is a good candidate for skin tightening in Nashville?
Because skin tightening treatments are nonsurgical and noninvasive or minimally invasive, the risk of complication is very low. These procedures are generally considered safe for most adults. However, pregnancy, certain medical conditions and prescription medications may contraindicated skin tightening. We will discuss your medical history and other factors during the initial consultation before making a recommendation.
Generally, our Nashville skin tightening is a good option for most patients’ concerns about age-related skin laxity, which can cause wrinkles, sagging, and a crepe-like appearance. It is also popular for tightening up droopy areas after weight loss. However, it is important to remember that these procedures are nonsurgical, so they do not remove excess skin.
If you have severe sagging, or have undergone major weight loss surgery, then a procedure such as a tummy tuck or facelift may be more appropriate. We will discuss all viable options during your consultation, and help you choose the one most appropriate for your needs. We offer a full range of non-surgical solutions in one comfortable and convenient location. Whatever your needs, you can count on Jack & Jill Aesthetics in Nashville. Just call us today to schedule a consultation.
What is plasma?
Aesthetic medicine is a rapidly developing area of science, with a staggering variety of noninvasive or minimally invasive treatments currently available. Many of these are technology-driven, and patients are familiar with lasers, ultrasound, radiofrequency, and other types of devices. However, cold plasma is a relatively new addition to the anti-aging world, and it is redefining the line between what is and isn’t possible with nonsurgical procedures.
If you are a bit confused by the term cold plasma, you aren’t alone. The word plasma has a couple of definitions, – it means something entirely different depending on whether it is used in reference to biology or physics.
Biology – Plasma in this context refers to a colorless liquid, which is a component of many fluids in the body. Blood plasma contains growth factors and has been used in a rejuvenation treatment called PRP (platelet rich plasma) for some time. Many people mistakenly believe that J-Plazty plasma is similar, but it actually works with an entirely different type of plasma, as described below.
Physics – In this context, plasma is something else entirely, often described as a gas. However, scientists technically classified it as a unique state of matter. In physics, something may be a liquid, solid, gas, or plasma. A gas such as helium may become plasma when ionized (charged) with electricity, radiofrequency, or other energy. Historically, the majority of scientific research surrounding practical applications of plasma revolved around creating visible light and color (think plasma televisions or neon signs), which involve tremendous heat. More recently, clinicians and medical researchers have been working with cold plasma, and its effect on human tissue. This is the plasma used in J-Plazty.
How does plasma treatment work?
Considering the variety of skin tightening treatments already available, you might be wondering why doctors and patients alike are so excited about J-Plazty. The simple answer is: results. Just one application of plasma can significantly contract tissue – instantly. It can often achieve a greater degree of tightening than laser, ultrasound, or radiofrequency alone. Many patients who’ve had unsatisfactory experiences with common skin tightening treatments are seeing fast and beautiful results from plasma treatment.
The procedure is performed using Renuvion’s J-Plasma technology. This sophisticated device uses radiofrequency (RF) energy to ionize helium gas, creating therapeutic plasma. The chemical stability of helium facilitates a predictable reaction at low energy levels, for ultimate precision. Not only is the energy source different from most skin tightening and rejuvenation procedures, but the process itself is different.
How does plasma treatment bridge the broad gap between noninvasive facial rejuvenation and surgical facelifts?
Noninvasive treatments work by applying some type of energy to the top of skin, so that it passes through the surface and reaches deep layers where collagen production takes place. The challenge is getting enough energy to the dermis, without the epidermis absorbing too much. Such procedures can have wonderful results, but they have their limits.
At the other end of the spectrum, a typical facelift involves removal and repositioning of skin, muscles, and other tissue. It can achieve dramatic results but involves the same risk as any minor surgery. Additionally, you will need to be prepared for some downtime after a facelift.
Unlike typical laser or RF treatments, plasma is not applied topically. Instead, it is applied to the underside of skin, exactly where it is needed. It only requires a few tiny incisions and does not involve removing any tissue. Therefore, the benefits are far more powerful than noninvasive treatment, while the downtime is much less than a surgical facelift.
I've been coming here for years and have always received great service. I have seen Erin my past few visits and I really like her, she always does great work and is always informative and goes over everything, which I've never had anyone go into detail with information like she does!
Who is a good candidate?
We will begin with a consultation and discuss your treatment options. Due to the minimally invasive nature of plasma therapy, it is safe for most adults. Plasma has a much lower temperature than laser energy, and it does not pass through the skin’s surface, reducing or eliminating the risk of burns.
The best candidates for treatment are patients who:
- Want maximum results with minimal downtime
- Are not ready for a surgical facelift
- Have tried noninvasive skin tightening or laser resurfacing with unsatisfactory results
- Want to improve elasticity, and sculpt and shrink loose skin on the face or body
What should I expect from a plasma treatment?
During the initial consultation and planning for skin tightening in Franklin TN, we will discuss any pre-treatment or post-treatment steps you need to take, which are generally minimal. You may be advised to discontinue certain dietary supplements a couple weeks before treatment and wear a compression garment for a few days after. The actual procedure is performed right here in our office. Only local anesthesia is needed to ensure a comfortable experience.
Once you are numbed, tiny incisions are made in hidden locations. For facial treatment, they are usually behind each ear and beneath the chin. Plasma energy is then applied sub dermally, and the incisions are closed with dissolvable sutures. Results are instant, though it may take a couple of weeks for swelling and bruising to subside. Most patients are able to resume normal activities within a few days of plasma treatment.