New Dates & Revamped Program Announced for MCS 2022

With the recent surge in COVID-19 cases placing additional strain and concern on the community, Miami Cosmetic Surgery (MCS) organizers have made the proactive decision to reschedule the MCS conference to May 4-7, 2022 at the Miami Beach Convention Center. The safety and comfort of delegates, faculty and exhibitors is the top priority, and as such, organizers felt this was the best decision.

MCS will maintain its reputation of breaking the mold of traditional conferences with a completely revamped program comprising the most engaging speakers and presentations, including Maverick Masterclasses; more discussion panels, including the World Cup of Aesthetics and Realistic Expectations; more treatment demonstrations; and new interactive experiences.

With four days of content featuring 90 leading subject matter experts from around the world; more than 100 industry leaders; 32 education sessions, including live injectables training, personal wellness and integrative practices; bonus virtual content; 15+ CME credits and 11 special events, MCS 2022 is a can’t miss event. Discover more at: https://bit.ly/MCS2022-Prog

WWW.MIAMICOSMETICSURGERY.COM

 

ASLMS 2022 – the 41st Annual Conference of the American Society for Laser Medicine and Surgery

The ASLMS Annual Conference (April 27 - 30, 2022; San Diego, Calif.) is the premier international meet- ing in the field of medical laser and energy-based applications. Each year attendees convene to share research, education and ideas that promote high standards of clinical care in the field. In 2022, the latest advancements in the field will be presented in the form of abstracts, special presentations, cutting edge sessions, and clinical application workshops. In addition to the educational sessions, the conference features exhibits, industry programming, and special events in the evening for all attendees.

The world’s leading experts will explore body contouring, skin tightening, combination with topicals, scars, vascular and pigmented lesions, tattoos, hair, skin of color, neck and periorbital rejuvenation, difficult cases from the audience with a panel of experts, laser treatment of medical conditions (non-cosmetic), anesthesia and pain medication, complications and legal issues, laser safety and office practice management. Pre-conference courses will address the fundamentals of lasers and nursing/allied health.

Register by March 14 to save. Educational scholarships are available for qualified early career attendees. To accommodate those who cannot attend in person, live streaming and on-demand options are available. Visit aslms.org to view the program-at-a-glance and register.
 

VISIT ASLMS.ORG TO REGISTER OR LEARN MORE

Despite some lingering chaos, 2022 looks like it will be another banner year in aesthetic medicine. For example, plastic surgeon Sachin Shridharani, MD, director of LUXURGERY and associate clinical professor in the Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery at Washington University School of Medicine (New York City, N.Y.) says 2022 started with similar conundrums he faced at the start of 2021. With the COVID-19 omicron variant quickly spreading, his busy practice has been trying to accommodate all the patients who wanted to get their procedures done sooner rather than later. “Ah, the joys of [pandemic] life,” he quipped.

In late December, The Aesthetic Society released its 2022 predictions suggesting the potential for a record-breaking year. The data shows Americans spent $8.7 billion on aesthetic plastic surgery in the first half of 2021, compared to all of 2020, when consumers spent just over $6 billion on aesthetic plastic surgery (plus more than $3 billion in nonsurgical aesthetic procedures). “Demand is stronger than ever and likely won’t let up in the new year,” William P. Adams, Jr., MD, president of The Aesthetic Society said in a press release.

No one could have predicted the explosion of interest in aesthetic medicine happening during a pandemic, said Chicago-based facial plastic surgeon Steven Dayan, MD. “Everyone is a rockstar right now. My practice. My friends’ practices. All the corporations are up,” he stated.

Ironically, the pandemic motivated people who were on the sidelines about having cosmetic procedures to be proactive, Dr. Dayan pointed out.“I think that was the biggest story of 2021,” Dr. Dayan said. “And it is going to continue because now you have the influx of a new generation with little to none of the stigmas of previous generations. The TikTok generation is much more open about showing off that they have had things done.”

A Year of Innovation, Starting with Injectables

The aesthetic industry maintained its research and development practices in 2020 and 2021, despite uncertainties at the pandemic’s start. This research could be available to mainstream practices in 2022, according to Michael Gold, MD, medical director of Gold Skin Care Center and the Tennessee Clinical Research Center in Nashville, Tenn.

Two neurotoxins relabotulinumtoxinA (QM1114, Galderma) and Hugel America’s letibotulinum-toxinA, could shake up the injectables market if they are FDA approved in 2022, Dr. Gold indicated.

RelabotulinumtoxinA is a ready-to-use liquid formulation being investigated for the treatment of glabellar lines and lateral canthal lines. letibotulinumtoxinA, being evaluated in the U.S. to treat glabellar lines, is available in 28 countries and has been the market leader in South Korea, according to a Hugel press release from June 2021.

“LetibotulinumtoxinA has shown good safety and efficacy in trials, and relabotulinumtoxinA is exciting for the convenience of an off-the-shelf option,” Dr. Gold reported. “I am not saying any of these are superior to what we have, but it is nice to have more choices and more opportunities to hopefully expand the market.”

In other neurotoxin news, Revance Aesthetics could get the FDA’s nod this year for its long-acting neuromodulator daxibotulinumtoxinA, according to Dr. Shridharani.

Interest is also growing in the use of botulinum toxins in micro-injections, Dr. Gold added. “We are seeing more development and interest in how we can use micro-toxin injections to improve skin quality, reduce sebum, improve acne and improve scars.”

From the filler perspective, some of the newer hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers that are trying to enter the U.S. market are typically cleared in other countries for specific indications that might be lacking in the U.S. For example, a filler like Juvedérm Volux (Allergan), which is not yet approved in the U.S., has a higher G-prime making it more optimal for use around the jawline, Dr. Shridharani revealed.

Authors of a paper recently published in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery looked at potential uses of an investigational plant-derived recombinant human collagen, by CollPlant, as a filler and for breast implants.

Among other things, the authors report, “The photocurable dermal filler allows smooth injection of a semiliquid filler with relative low stiffness. When illuminated with visible light, rhCollagen cross-links to enhance collagen stability and filler mechanical properties and resistance to facial deformation. At the same time, the rhCollagen promotes cells infiltration and neovascularization leading to new [extracellular matrix] and collagen deposition, and a long-lasting appearance of rejuvenation.”

Among injection tools, Air-Tite Aesthetics (Virginia Beach, Va.) has recently announced it is expanding their line of Low Dead Space (LDS) hub needles with the U.S. release of the smallest TSK needle to date: THE INViSIBLE NEEDLETM. The LDS design reduces the excess effective hub space to nearly zero, which could result in a potential cost and product savings with each box. A conventional needle hub may retain a sizeable dead space, sacrificing unused product with every injection. With the new TSK LDS hub, the amount of dead space loss is minimized almost entirely. At just 0.2 mm in diameter the new INViSIBLE NEEDLE is 33% thinner than the popular TSK 30G needles, which may provide a more comfortable injection experience, while potentially reducing the risk of bruising for patients.

“I was introduced to the TSK INViSIBLE NEEDLE in Europe several years ago and cannot imagine injecting any neurotoxin or fine line filler without it,” said Heidi Waldorf, MD, of Waldorf Dermatology & Aesthetics in Nanuet, N.Y. “Patients who have been treated in other offices uniformly comment on the difference. It is almost imperceptible and a pleasure to use. My staff, my patients, and I are in love with the TSK INViSIBLE NEEDLE.”

Unwanted Dimples be Gone!

Collagenase clostridium histolyticum-aaes, also known as Qwo® from Endo Pharmaceuticals (Malvern, Pa.) was the first FDA approved drug to treat cellulite on the buttocks. Qwo’s indications could expand in 2022, Dr. Gold implied.

Cellulite is a big and relatively untapped market, according to Dr. Shridharani. “Revelle Aesthetics is coming out with a manual light-guided technology to help mechanically sever the bands and cords of cellulite,” said Dr. Shridharani, who anticipates being among the first practices to begin using the device in 2022.

A non-invasive rapid, high-frequency sound-wave technology called Resonic (developed by Soliton), which received FDA approval to treat cellulite and was acquired by Allergan Aesthetics in 2021 is another treatment option,¹ “... it is like acoustic wave technology on steroids that can be safely delivered,” Dr. Gold said. “[Soliton/Allergan] have efficacy data extending out to 52 weeks.”

MedixSysteme (Ruggell, Liechtenstein) is planning to launch its U.LIFT technology for cellulite in the U.S. in 2022.

Fernando Gagliardi, manager of BodyContour in Luxembourg, said he uses the U.LIFT because it combines three therapeutic effects. “The U.LIFT emitter handpiece divides the adipose tissue lobules into separate cells and the fractionated beams break the fat cell’s membrane. Each pulse is rather long at 2.5 seconds, which is a plus for mobilizing the fat tissue,” Mr. Gagliardi said.

The U.LIFT treatment is followed by 20 minutes of ultrasonic mechanical drainage, which stimulates elimination of the fat cells, triglycerides and other waste via the lymphatic system. “What was observed after a sonography study of U.LIFT is the disruption of the ligamentous septum between the adipose cells,” Dr. Gagliardi shared. “This has resulted in skin that is more even, and a decrease in the appearance of orange peel skin/dimpling. [U.LIFT] is painless, [requires] no downtime and within 45 minutes the session is done.”

Today’s patients are more likely to consider surgery for what they think is cellulite, Dr. Shridharani expressed. But in reality, many who come to him have thigh skin laxity, which has driven up demand for thigh-plasty and his mini thigh lift approach.

“I have done more mini thigh lifts in the past six to nine months than I probably have done in three years combined,” he reported.

Ultrasound Device Updates

Ultherapy from Merz Aesthetics (Raleigh, N.C.) has long been the go-to FDA-cleared, non-invasive procedure using ultrasound imaging to lift the neck, chin and brow, as well as improve lines and wrinkles on the upper chest. But Dr. Gold hinted at behind-the-scenes work being done to update the treatment, potentially in 2022.

Now there also is SofwaveTM from Sofwave Medical (Israel), a treatment using Synchronous Ultrasound Parallel Beam Technology that has been FDA cleared for lifting of the eyebrow, submental and neck, and reducing fine lines and wrinkles. “The Sofwave device is pretty useful, well tolerated and works a little faster than the traditional ultrasound that we have had in the past,” Dr. Gold stated.

The new 10THERA “2-line” high intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) device by Tentech (Seoul, Korea), treats in half the time when compared with a single line HIFU device, according to the company.

“Despite the shortened treatment time, patients were satisfied with the thoroughness,” said Professor EunSoo Park, MD, PhD, of the department of Plastic Surgery at Soonchunhyang University Bucheon Hospital in Korea.

Professor Park (and other clinicians) favors 10THERA for increased skin elasticity, improving wrinkles and line correction, but even he had his doubts at first. “Initially, I had my doubts about a 2-line irradiation method. I questioned the difference between 2-line and 1-line HIFU, but now I’m experiencing high patient satisfaction in terms of effectiveness, procedure speed and pain [level],” he said.

Dr. Dayan gives a thumbs up to the SaltFacial (SaltMED, Merz), a three-in-one device featuring ultrasound, a salt-based debrider and LED light. “It combines all three in a nonsurgical device that can be used by surgeons and extended providers,” he expressed. “It is a good introductory device for resurfacing and rejuvenation.”

Acne Treatment Evolves

Lasers to treat acne might change the treatment landscape in 2022, according to Dr. Gold. “I have a huge acne population, and the Aerolase Neo is a great device. It is a short-pulse 1064 nm.”

In Dr. Gold’s experience, aother effective acne treatment is Advalight's ADVATx, which has 25 FDA-cleared indications without the use of consumables. The device combines 589 nm and 1319 nm wavelengths.

Additionally, companies, including Accure (Boulder, Colo.) and Cutera (Brisbane, Calif.), are developing acne lasers in the 1700 nm range, Dr. Gold noted. “Both are in the final stages of their FDA work, and both devices work by targeting the sebaceous glands,” Dr. Gold explained. “I love the concept as long as they can control any pain that is associated with the device.”

Microneedling Still Trending

Microneedling continues to be a hot topic in aesthetic medicine, according to Dr. Gold. “More advances in the microneedling space are yet to come,” he stated. “We have learned that whether needles are insulated or no- insulated, the science from reputable companies has shown that it is possible to increase the depth of penetration and customize treatments for acne scars, skin tightening and lifting – not only on the face but off the face.”

What is new in microneedling is the potential addition of biostimulators, or exosomes, said Dr. Dayan, who is conducting studies on exosomes and skin rejuvenation.

Exosomes are not ready for prime time yet, but could be an important trend in the increasingly popular practice of regenerative medicine, Dr. Dayan advised.

Exosomes are cell-derived nanoscale vesicles which are capable of communicating with adjacent or distant cells. Exosomes can serve as novel treatment options to repair, regenerate and rejuvenate skin tissue,” according to authors of a recent paper published in Pharmacological Research.²

Fertile Ground for Regenerative and Holistic Treatment Options

In recent years, patients have reduced office visits, diagnostic testing and time spent one-on-one with primary care providers and specialists outside of aesthetic medicine, according to J.D. McCoy, ND, a naturopathic doctor who specializes in aesthetic medicine in Gilbert, Ariz. He says this has carved an opportunity in aesthetic medicine for having conversations with patients about health and wellness.

“In cosmetic medicine, we typically have more time to interact with a patient than their other providers,” he said. “Patients are ‘hungry’ to discuss topics including nutrition supplementation, drug interactions and optimizing immune health. We can use the duration and frequency of time with patients as an opportunity to engage some of these topics and elevate the quality of care we provide.”

If holistic health wasn’t a priority before, COVID-19 has shifted the mindset of many, said Mar Soraparu, partner and chief wellness officer at BIÂN, a private wellness destination in Chicago, Ill., built on a foundation of holistic wellness and social well-being. Services offered include beauty services, such as injectables, as well as nutrition, fitness, mental health services, concierge medical and alternative medicine.

“It seems that the world is craving a more well-rounded, preventative approach to their wellbeing and it would behoove any business to get on board with additional holistic healing practices,” Ms. Soraparu said.

Customized wellness, a focus on prevention and recovery are in demand, according to Ms. Soraparu. “In-depth assessments that take everything into consideration – physical, mental, emotional, social and spiritual. It all contributes to our well-being – regardless of what service [a person is] seeking,” she said. “When you serve clients in a meaningful, customized and deep way, you create clients for life.”

Body Contouring, Skin Tightening in 2022

Cutera, a leading provider of laser, light and other energy-based aesthetic devices, announced the launch of the next generation of truSculpt flex. The new truSculpt flex+ rapid treatment mode takes Cutera’s proprietary Multi-Directional Stimulation (MDS) to the next level – offering the same toning, firming and strengthening results in a fraction of the treatment time.

This muscle-sculpting technology is now enhanced with a 15-minute no-downtime, rapid muscle building mode, with the ability to treat eight areas simultaneously – reportedly the largest treatment area in the body sculpting industry. Practices can now treat more patients in less time. With body sculpting treatments projected to spike in 2022 truSculpt flex+ is set to help meet that demand with fast treatment times and effective results.

In addition, BTL’s Emsculpt Neo and Venus Concept’s Venus Bliss laser have changed body contouring by offering not only fat reduction, but also skin tightening and muscle toning, Dr. Gold stated.

Dr. Dayan is excited about newcomer devices, including Lumenis’s NuEra Tight RF for skin laxity and cellulite. “We are definitely seeing improvement with this device in one or two treatments. It has amazing results and is comfortable for patients,” Dr. Dayan said.

Another potential Lumenis addition to the U.S. market in 2022 is the Legend Pro+, which is already available outside the U.S., according to Dr. Gold. “This device offers muscle tightening on the face.”

ENDYMED (Freehold, N.J.) aims to introduce its device that focuses on tightening skin around the eyes. ENDYEyelift is a nonsurgical eyelift treatment that uses RF technology to safely reduce under-eye bags, smooth and tighten skin, and lift the upper eyelid for a more open eye. The treatment uses 3DEEP RF technology for a volumetric, focused, homogeneous dermal heating in a minimally invasive treatment. ENDYMED’s iFine handpiece is designed to treat hard-to-reach, delicate areas around the eyes, fine lines and wrinkles, with maximum efficacy, according to the company.

“The key thing about ENDYMED’s eyelift treatment protocol is being able to tighten elastotic skin of any color with virtually no downtime or risk. The course of treatment gives undeniable results that lasts years,” said Sach Mohan, MD, MBBS, a cosmetic physician in London, UK.

Harnessing AI

This year will include more aesthetic treatments that are based on artificial intelligence (AI), Dr. Gold pointed out. “There is a whole field of AI for aesthetics that is being developed, including the use of algorithms and the cloud to enhance care delivery,” he said.

For aesthetic clinicians that worry about how AI might eliminate some of what they do, Dr. Gold argues AI will further enhance what clinicians do.

“AI is driven by us. We are going to be the decision makers for being able to use the data to make better decisions,” Dr. Gold assured. “AI is going to be a big deal, but we have to use it in a way that protects patient information. We have to do it in a very ethical way.”

DEKA (Florence, Italy) is developing its LipoAI, a novel laser-assisted liposuction device that uses AI algorithms. According to the company, the patent-pending system allows special views and feedback controls of the operating ‘ongoing status,’ with no need for physicians to look at the system display.

Another example of AI-driven technology being developed for U.S. dermatology practices is the Barco Demetra, a dermoscopy device, Dr. Gold shared.

“We are working with Barco on an AI platform that is done through a Smartphone with incredible imaging capabilities at the skin’s surface, which goes to the cloud and that gives us information back on that lesion,” Dr. Gold said. “The plan is real time feedback to help make a decision or do a mapping that you can follow over time.”

Dr. Gold and his research team are studying the device’s sensitivity and specificity and should have more data to report in early 2022, he said.

Reaching Potential Clients in 2022

It’s no secret that social media marketing has had monumental influence on aesthetic medicine. “I think a really shrewd, creative, authentic marketer can [do amazing things]. I have a new partner named Benjamin Caughlin, MD, who has over 200,000 TikTok followers,” Dr. Dayan remarked.

The younger generation is drawn in by social media. Dr. Dayan said his partner’s patients are an average age of 27, while he markets on Facebook and Instagram, and his patients are in their mid-40s and older.

Dr. Shridharani recommends that aesthetic clinicians remain true to their culture and cultivate that in their social media messaging. Done right, social media marketing can inspire people who might not realize aesthetic options for their concerns exist. “The power of social media is definitely important,” Dr. Shridharani concluded.

References:
1. Soliton. (2021, May 10). Allergan Aesthetics to Acquire Soliton, Expanding Body Contouring Portfolio [Press release]. https://ir.soliton.com/press-releases/detail/139/ allergan-aesthetics-to-acquire-soliton-expanding-body
2. Xiong, M., Zhang, Q., Hu, W., Zhao, C., Lv, W., Yi, Y., Wang,
Y., Tang, H., Wu, M., & Wu, Y. (2021). The novel mechanisms and applications of exosomes in dermatology and cutaneous medical aesthetics. Pharmacological Research, 166, 105490. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.phrs.2021.105490

If the mob could be said to have anything resembling a golden age, it was in the 1930s, when Prohibition rendered bootlegging and various other vices very profitable. But all of that criminal activity—and associated murder—made having fingerprints and recognizable faces very inconvenient.

This led to a brief uptick in a very unusual occupation: plastic surgeon for the mob.

These morally disreputable physicians circulated in the underworld, offering to perform plastic surgery to change recognizable faces and alter or remove fingerprints, which were quickly becoming the new standard in identification for law enforcement. In 1933, one such physician, Joseph Moran, stirred up business by agreeing to stitch up mobsters and remove bullets for patients who had been shot, a common occupational hazard.

He then agreed to remove the prints of Chicago gangsters Fred Barker and Alvin Karpis. This was marginally successful—Karpis had problems getting into Canada thanks to his lack of clean prints—but Moran didn’t seem to realize that he was swimming with sharks. After bragging he knew an incriminating amount of detail about the Barker gang’s activities, his body washed ashore in Ontario in 1935. (Moran was missing his prints, but that was because his hands had been chopped off along with his feet.)

Another doctor, Wilhelm Loeser, accepted $5000 to change the appearance and prints of John Dillinger, using hydrochloric acid and then scraping away the prints—an experimental procedure Loeser had first used on himself. (Loeser was also no choir boy, having been convicted of dealing cocaine and heroin.)

To alter Dillinger’s face and smooth his distinctive cleft chin, Loeser used tendons sourced from a kangaroo to stretch the skin. In the end, Dillinger looked more or less like Dillinger, while Loeser was eventually caught and sentenced to serve the remainder of a three-year term for narcotics possession.

Some mobsters opted for a do-it-yourself approach, using acid or simply slashing away at their fingers to mutilate them. But these attempts typically leave outer ridges of the prints visible or fail to burrow far enough into the skin to remove deeper layers. A partial print can still be obtained. Worse, criminals trying to obliterate their prints wind up looking very suspicious. Combined with other methods of identification, it’s more or less a lost cause.

Proof? Following Dillinger’s demise in a shootout with the FBI in 1934, his acid-etched prints were still a positive match.

 

Read more here.

 

Source:

Mental Floss

Merz Aesthetics, the world’s largest dedicated medical aesthetics business, announced today the launch of the second annual Innovation Forum with a call-to-action for the next generation of researchers and clinicians to submit their most creative and inventive original abstracts. The winners will have the honor of presenting their submission on the main stage of the highly anticipated Merz Aesthetics Expert Summit (MEXS).
 
“The Merz Aesthetics Innovation Forum provides medical aesthetics experts everywhere with the opportunity to come together to spark creativity, encourage unique thinking and drive innovation within our field,” said Terri Phillips, M.D., Chief Medical Affairs Officer, Merz Aesthetics. “We are delighted to offer this opportunity to aesthetics professionals, independent to their experience, and highlight the future of the industry on a global scale.”
 
Submissions, which can range from pre-clinical or clinical work to innovations in the field of anatomy or novel observations from daily clinical practice will then be reviewed by an esteemed panel of independent international experts.
 
The submissions will be categorized based on the candidate’s years of experience in aesthetics, either more or less than five years working in the field. For each category, five finalists will be selected in May 2022 based on their abstract’s level of innovation, practical relevance, scientific rigor, potential and applicability. Selected finalists will then have the opportunity to create a video about their submission that will be uploaded to a Merz Aesthetics platform for the aesthetic community to watch and vote for their desired winners per category. All finalists will be invited to the next Merz Expert Summit where the winners will be announced. They will be invited to present their work in-person during a break-out session on cutting-edge science.
 
For more information about the Merz Innovation Forum, submission process and requirements, please visit http://innovationforum.merz.com/. Submissions will be accepted through April 17, 2022.
 
About Merz Aesthetics
Merz Aesthetics is a medical aesthetics business with a long history of empowering health care professionals, patients and employees to live every day with confidence. We aim to help people around the world look, feel and live like the best versions of themselves — however they define it. Clinically proven and category-leading, its product portfolio includes injectables, devices and skin care treatments designed to meet each patient’s needs with high standards of safety and efficacy. Being family owned for more than 112 years, Merz Aesthetics is known for building unique connections with customers who feel like family. Merz Aesthetics’ global headquarters is in Raleigh, N.C., USA, with a commercial presence in 36 countries worldwide. It is also a part of Merz Group, which was founded in 1908 and is based in Frankfurt, Germany. Learn more at merzaesthetics.com.

 

Source:

Merz Aesthetics

Technology is evolving to meet today’s unprecedented demand for aesthetic procedures. As aesthetic practices around the world gear up for another busy year, they can look to devices and products that aim to expand options and improve outcomes. Companies are engineering technologies that safely target common aesthetic concerns, from cellulite to skin laxity and aging, effectively, with minimal discomfort and with little to no downtime. And, it is not only the products, themselves, that are advancing to new levels but also the tools aesthetic clinicians use every day in practice.

In addition, devices continue to evolve, enabling a broader range of patients and faster treatment times, as well as versatility, allowing practices the freedom, convenience and efficiency to use one machine to accomplish many aesthetic goals.

And with topical skincare formulations becoming more specialized to address specific concerns, aesthetic practices can use today’s scientifically proven products with or without in-office procedures to enhance outcomes, as well as keep skin looking radiant.

 

Low Dead Space Needles

Air-Tite Aesthetics has added the smallest TSK needle to date, THE INViSIBLE NEEDLETM, to their line of TSK Low Dead Space (LDS) hub needles. These are premium hypodermic needles manufactured in Japan. The LDS design reduces the excess effective hub space to nearly zero, which could potentially result in a significant cost and product savings with each box. A conventional needle hub may retain a sizeable dead space, sacrificing unused medicine with every injection. With the new TSK LDS hub, the amount of dead space loss is minimized almost entirely. At just 0.2 mm in diameter, the new INViSIBLE NEEDLE is 33% thinner than the popular TSK 30G needles, which may provide a more comfortable injection experience, while potentially reducing the risk of bruising for patients.

Air-Tite Aesthetics:
(800) 231-7762 / www.air-tite.com

 

Viola Threads

Surface your patient’s beauty from the inside out with Viola Threads, a minimally invasive anti-aging treatment. As a leading provider of Polydioxanone (PDO) threads (FDA 510k approved #K190264) to practitioners and other medical professionals, Viola Threads differentiates itself from competitors with the distinct packaging and pouches that contain the threads. These pouches preserve the efficiency of the thread, extending the expiration dates up to three years when the pouch remains unopened, allowing it to provide maximum results when used in treatment. PDO threads are FDA approved for barbed sutures and are indicated for use in soft tissue, where absorbable sutures are appropriate.

Viola Threads (AMA Meditime):
(213) 351-0001 / www.violathreads.com

 

Emsculpt Neo

Emsculpt Neo is the first non-invasive body shaping procedure to provide simultaneous fat elimination and muscle building in a combined 30-minute session. Emsculpt Neo builds off the legacy of its predecessor, Emsculpt, by concurrently emitting both radiofrequency and high intensity electromagnetic energies. Using the most reputable scientific methods, Emsculpt Neo showed consistency in eliminating fat and building muscle. The end result is more fat reduction (30%) and muscle growth (25%) on average, in less time and for less money. Best of all, Emsculpt Neo has broad appeal as it can treat patients with a BMI up to 35!

BTL Aesthetics:
(866) 285-1656 / info@emsculpt.com / www.emsculptneo.com

 

Clearskin Institute

The Clearskin Institute of Laser Aesthetics is a nationally recognized leaderin the field of aesthetic education for industry professionals. For over two decades, Clearskin Institute has been the place to go for superior training to take your career and practice to the next level. The experienced Clearskinteam, led by owner Larry Helwig, is dedicated to passing on their extensive knowledge and passion to prepare you with the skills and confidence needed to treat patients effectively and safely. Clearskin partners with the top-of-the-line technology from industry leaders such as Sciton, BTL, Aesthetic Management Partners, Lightwave and many more. Come and experience the Clearskin difference.

Clearskin Institute of Laser Aesthetics:
(602) 274-8254 / www.clearskininstitute.com

 

truSculpt flex

Expand your treatment offerings with truSculpt flex, the first 15-min- ute muscle sculpting procedure that offers personalized treatments based on patient fitness level, shape and goals. truSculpt flex with multi-directional stimulation (MDS) and the new flex+ treatment mode provide three unique treatment options, covering the largest treatment area in the body sculpting industry. Elevate your patient throughput and provide the flexibility and convenience your patients want to sculpt their best body.

Cutera:
(415) 657-5500 / info@cutera.com / www.cutera.com

 

MG Collection by Dp Dermaceuticals

New this year from Dp Dermaceuticals is the MG Collection, a range of procedural super-concentrates packed into single- use, sterile, glass vials equipped with luer-lock compatible nozzles. Each MG formulation features HylaFuse, which is a non-cross-linked, triple-weight hyaluronic complex designed to deliver treatment actives deeper into the skin. Most Dp Dermaceuticals, including the majority of items in the MG Collection, feature 10 mg per mL of HylaFuse. MG-HA35 and MG-HA35+ feature an unprecedented 35 mg per mL of this highly compatible and effective hyaluronan complex, a higher concentration than most products on the market today, including cross-linked fillers. MG-HA35 and MG- HA35+ also feature Calphasomes Technology, an advanced delivery technology for both oil and water-based bioactives. Formulas in our MG Collection directly and effectively address concerns such as aging, pigmentation, acne and scars, and can be mixed to further customize each treatment.

Dp Derm:
(305) 552-0550 / info@dpderm.com / www.DpDerm.com

 

Epionce Luminous Eye Serum

New clinically proven Epionce Luminous Eye Serum incorporates blends of brightening botanicals along with multiple algae extracts to reduce under-eye puffiness and diminish dark circles to reveal a more awake, refreshed appearance – without irritation. The silky, lightweight formula addresses the unique challenges of the eye area while enhancing hydration, repair and protection from environmental pollutants including blue light. Ideal for all skin types.

Episciences, Inc.:
(866) 374-6623 / info@epionce.com / www.epionce.com

 

UltraContour NG

Ultracontour NG® from MedixSysteme AG has eight key benefits in one machine, from a hands-free protocol to multiple applicators and painless non-invasive treatment with thermal, mechanical and vibrating effects safe for all skin types. Ultracontour NG offers up to 20 piloted and custom-programmed emitters, which can be placed at various body locations for simultaneous treatment of subcutaneous fat in the arms, belly, legs, buttocks and love handles. Furthermore, specific programs are available for men and women. The emitters deliver highly focalized fractionated ultrasound (sonodynamic therapy) for point-by-point targeting at the precise depth of local adiposity from between 0.8 cm and 1.3 cm, but with the unique ultrasonic mechanical drainage (UMD) effect automatically delivering intense pulses to the fat in larger areas. The operator can choose up to fifive levels of UMD power based on the site treated and fat thickness. And there are six UMD belts offering the flexibility to adapt to each patient’s individual body areas.

MedixSysteme: www.ultracontourng.com

Cyspera Intensive System

Scientis is an emerging Swiss dermatology company dedicated to discovering, developing and bringing innovative dermo-cosmetic products to market for pigmentation disorders. Our Cyspera® Intensive SystemTM, formulated with the novel Cysteamine Isobionic-Amide ComplexTM, is clinically proven to be fast and effective against hyperpigmentation without the concerns of corticosteroids, retinoic acid and hydroquinone: isobionic-amide multiplies the pigment correction efficacy of Cysteamine. AHA stabilizes Cysteamine, which enhances permeability into the skin and reduces odor on skin. AHA reacts immediately with isobionicamide, which produces an instant pigment lightening. Cyspera IntensiveTM delivers a powerful antioxidant activity to improve the appearance of persistent brown patches and dark spots. Cyspera NeutralizeTM re-balances the epidermis after application of Cyspera Intensive. Cyspera BoostTM is formulated with an isobionic-amide complex that works synergistically with Cyspera Intensive to even skintone, improve complexion and deliver a natural and healthy glow.

Scientis, SA:
(855) 722-4800 / www.cyspera.com

COVID-19 gave us all forced downtime in our practices in 2020. While none of us would have ever chosen this particular situation to take a “pause” in our businesses, what we learned is that success is directly related to how we maximize any unexpected “pauses” or challenges.

The old rules are out the window as we enter a new paradigm and adapt to new ways of doing business. We simply cannot return to the old ways of doing things and bury our heads in the sand.

The good news is it is never too late to do the necessary work so that you can operate at a higher level, which translates to increased profitability and efficiency.

A practice assessment can identify the gaps in your practice; allow you to course correct; and make the changes you need to implement now!

Top Three Reasons to Perform a Practice Assessment:

1. You Can’t Make an Accurate Diagnosis Without the Proper Information

Just as you would never make a medical diagnosis without a set of diagnostic parameters or tests, you cannot diagnose what is working in your practice and what isn’t without taking what I like to call the “ultimate X-ray.” A practice assessment allows you to take a deep dive and really evaluate your business as well as uncover missing revenue and growth opportunities so you can pivot and make informed decisions on what to change.

2. You Have to Focus on the Whole Wheel, Not Individual Spokes

Our Practice Assessment tool enables a robust, comprehensive analysis that asks probing ques- tions and requires you to provide meticulous details about your business. We will evaluate every area of your practice to get the full picture, not just a piece. A wheel does not turn properly unless all the spokes are in good shape. Specifically, you should look at your:

• Revenue sources and goals
• Facility and overhead costs
• Services offered and profitability
• Equipment
• Strengths and weakness analysis
• Patient retention
• Lead generation sources and follow up • Consultations and conversion rates
• Operations
• Marketing
• Website & SEO
• Information technology
• Human resources, staffing and compensation

You will get a high-level summary report with concrete action steps that, if implemented, will turn your business around. Action creates energy and movement. Information with implementation creates change.

3 You Can’t Track What You Don’t Measure

You must know your numbers. Analyze your data and know your numbers so you can stream- line and focus on the services that have the highest return on investment (ROI). In addition, this will enable you to determine what changes you need to make going forward. Completing a Practice Assessment will help you:

• Analyze your cash flow
• Determine your revenue per hour compared to industry benchmarks
• Know your profit per treatment
• Evaluate your conversion metrics. Are they 70% or higher?
• Put call tracking into place and evaluate your phone conversions so you don’t lose thousands of dollars
• Streamline your consultation process, build long-term treatment plans and create follow up protocols
• Understand your cost of goods
• Align your compensation plan with the company goals
• Make sure your payroll is 30% or less of your operating costs and if not, where to make cuts
• Maximize scheduling software
• Channel your marketing dollars in the areas that are most important
• Optimize and ensure your website is converting leads
• Put the proper Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and Job Descriptions in place so you are legally compliant

If you could identify these gaps and see up to a $100,000 ROI from implementing even a few of the recommended actions, would that be worth the investment?

There is no better time to complete your Practice Assessment and invest in your team. Understand your business in ways you never have before. With systems and structure in place, everything can change for the better.

 

About the Author
Terri Ross
Ms. Ross is a world-renowned practice management consultant and international speaker in the aesthetic industry who has helped hundreds of medical aesthetic practices launch, grow and scale to upwards of $1M in revenue growth a year and beyond. She launched APX by Terri Ross in 2021, a business intelligence training and growth platform that provides solutions and analytics for the medical aesthetics industry in the areas of sales, finance and operations.

A study published recently in JAMA Surgery suggests that female surgeons may achieve better outcomes than male surgeons—and choosing a female surgeon could be even more beneficial for female patients, Nicholas Bakalar reports for the New York Times.

Study Details

For the study, researchers analyzed patient records from 559,903 male patients and 760,205 female patients who were operated on by 2,937 surgeons between 2007-2019 in Ontario, Canada.

Among the male patients, about 91% had male surgeons, and 9% had female surgeons. Among the female patients, 88% had male surgeons, and 12% had female surgeons.

On average, the female surgeons in the study were younger, performed fewer surgeries, and operated on patients who were generally healthier than those operated on by the male surgeons. The researchers controlled for these differences between male and female surgeons, differences in patient characteristics, and the type of hospital in which the surgery was performed, such as a community hospital or a major academic medical center.

In their analysis, researchers looked at 21 common elective and emergency surgeries, including cardiac, orthopedic, urological, head and neck, thoracic, vascular, neurological, and plastic surgery. The analyzed operations included coronary artery bypass grafting, appendectomy, carpal tunnel release, gastric bypass, spinal surgery, thyroid surgery, and knee and hip replacement.

Findings

Overall, about 15% of the study's patients experienced post-operative complications. In particular, 8.7% of patients had significant complications within 30 days of their operation, 6.7% were readmitted to the hospital, and 1.7% died.

In addition, the researchers discovered that when the sex of the surgeon and patient were different, the surgery had a slightly lesser chance of being successful. In these cases, researchers observed an 8% increase in postoperative complications or death—but there was no difference in readmissions to the hospital. This pattern remained consistent across different types of surgery and patient characteristics.

However, researchers found that female surgeons were more successful overall than male surgeons. Notably, the worst surgical outcomes were recorded when female patients had male surgeons. In the study, when female patients were treated by male surgeon, they were about 15% more likely to experience complications, readmission to the hospital, or death within 30 days of their procedure.

 

Read more here.

 

Source:

Advisory Board