In recent years, the use of Ozempic, a medication commonly prescribed for the treatment of type 2 diabetes, has become increasingly popular. While Ozempic offers numerous benefits in managing blood sugar levels and promoting weight loss, some individuals may experience certain aesthetic changes referred to as "Ozempic Face." In this blog post, we will delve into what Ozempic Face entails and explore how a combination of functional medicine and aesthetician services can help prevent and mitigate its effects. We'll also discuss the importance of collagen stimulation, volume loss management, skin tightening, and the potential use of AOD-9604 to retain muscle mass.
Understanding Ozempic Face: Ozempic Face is a term used to describe the aesthetic changes that may occur in some individuals using the medication Ozempic (generic name semaglutide). While these changes are generally mild, it is important to be aware of them. Common manifestations of Ozempic Face include the loss of volume in certain facial areas, such as the cheeks and temples, resulting in a sunken appearance. Additionally, some individuals may notice a reduction in skin elasticity and firmness, leading to a less youthful and more aged appearance. Preventing Ozempic Face with Functional Medicine:
Preventing Ozempic Face with Aesthetician Services:
Utilizing AOD-9604 to Retain Muscle Mass: While Ozempic Face primarily focuses on facial changes, it is essential to address the potential loss of muscle mass that some individuals may experience. AOD-9604, a peptide fragment derived from human growth hormone (HGH), has shown promise in retaining muscle mass while promoting fat loss. A consultation with one of the knowledgeable healthcare providers at Pacholec Center for Weight Loss is required prior to treatment and will help you decide if AOD-9604 is suitable for your individual needs and health profile. While Ozempic Face is a potential concern for individuals using Semaglutide, a combination of functional medicine and aesthetician services can help prevent and minimize its effects. By adopting a holistic approach that focuses on optimal nutrition, blood sugar control, and hormonal balance through functional medicine, individuals can support their overall skin health and mitigate the aesthetic changes associated with Ozempic Face. Furthermore, seeking the expertise of experienced aestheticians at Pacholec Center for Weight Loss who specialize in collagen stimulation, volume loss management, and skin tightening can provide targeted treatments to address the specific concerns of Ozempic Face. These aesthetician services, such as microchanneling, microneedling, dermal fillers, chemical peels and skin tightening therapies, can help restore lost volume, improve skin elasticity, and promote a more youthful appearance. Aesthetician services are now available in both the St Petersburg, FL and Lutz, FL clinics at Pacholec Center for Weight Loss! Additionally, for individuals concerned about the potential loss of muscle mass, exploring options like AOD-9604 in consultation with one of the healthcare providers at Pacholec Center for Weight Loss may be beneficial. AOD-9604, a peptide fragment, has shown promise in retaining muscle mass while aiding fat loss. Remember, everyone's experience with Ozempic Face may vary, and it is essential to consult with your healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate prevention and treatment strategies for your specific situation. By combining functional medicine and aesthetician services, you can take proactive steps to support your skin health and minimize the aesthetic changes associated with Ozempic Face. Give one of the Pacholec Center for Weight Loss clinics a call today to get started! PDO Thread Lifts are one of aesthetic medicine's hottest trends! They are more than half the cost of a traditional face lift, minimally invasive, non-surgical and are considered a "holistic" alternative to face lifts since they actually stimulate collagen production within your own body! Read below for some common questions regarding thread lifts in general as well as the different types Pacholec Center for Weight Loss offers in our St Petersburg, FL and Lutz, FL locations.
(1) What is a thread lift? Thread lifts are minimally invasive, non-surgical face lifts. They are often dubbed the "lunch hour" face lift because they only require about 1-2 hours to complete and have minimal downtime. Threads are composed of Polydioxanone, more commonly known as PDO for short, which is a type of naturally-derived protein. This protein breaks down and dissolves in the dermal layer of the skin over time stimulating your own body to produce collagen in its place. Full biodegradation of the thread takes about 6 months, so collagen is gradually formed over time resulting in subtle and natural changes in the skin. (2) What is a barbed thread? Barbed threads have tiny hooks on the ends of them which help them to anchor to the skin and keep it taut while the collagen begins to form. These types of threads are used for more severe cases of skin tightening, jaw contouring and cheek augmentation. These threads require more time to insert, but also create a more dramatic result. They also require an injectable numbing agent for painless insertion. (3) What is a smooth thread? Smooth threads are smaller, smooth PDO wrapped or coiled in different ways around a fine insertion needle to target fine lines and wrinkles in the forehead, nasolabial folds, eye troughs, crow's feet, smoker's lines around the lips and the "11" lines between the eyebrows. The coiling around the needle increases the surface area which adds extra collagen stimulation as the threads dissolve. This type of thread only requires a topical numbing agent and insertion does not take as long to complete. These types of threads can be used as an alternative to dermal fillers or used in combination with dermal fillers to produce long-lasting results! (4) What is the downtime? Bruising and swelling may occur for up to 14 days for barbed threads and 3-5 days for smooth threads. Pre-procedure recommendations will be given to the patient prior to the treatment to help minimize bruising effects. (5) How long do results last? Immediate skin tightening results can be seen post procedure. Both barbed and smooth threads take about 6 months to fully biodegrade and collagen is produced in its place for 12-24 months. Maintenance is recommended at least once per year after optimal result has been achieved. As with most of our collagen-inducing procedures, thread lifts work best in combination with some of our other aesthetic treatments. It is a great idea to prep your skin with a chemical peel prior to your thread lift to stimulate fibroblast production, which also aids in collagen stimulation. Dr. Williams also recommends starting with Skinade collagen drink prior to your thread lift procedure so your skin is in optimal condition leading up to the treatment. Sculptra Aesthetic in combination with smooth threads is also a great way to rejuvenate your skin and regain your youthful glow! Dr. Williams will discuss all your options and the best combination therapies at your Aesthetic Consultation prior to your procedure. Schedule yours at either our St Petersburg, FL or Lutz, FL clinic today! At Pacholec Center for Weight Loss & Anti-Aging Medicine, we offer multiple different types of dermal fillers. Our providers, Dr. Kristen Williams and Lauren DeNeve, ARNP will assess the patient in person and discuss problem areas and goals for treatment and come up with a detailed treatment plan to meet the specific and individual needs of the patient during our Aesthetic Consultations. Read below for information regarding dermal fillers we use in office to treat the lips, cheeks, marionette lines, laugh lines, smile lines and more! (1) What Are Dermal Fillers Made Of?
Dermal fillers are composed of hyaluronic acid (HA), which is a naturally occurring polysaccharide that is primarily found in the skin and joints. In the skin, it helps retain moisture so skin is supple, hydrated and firm. It also promotes wound healing, regulates inflammation in wounds and has antibacterial properties. In the joints, it helps lubricate the spaces in between the bones so movements are fluid and not painful. As we age, hyaluronic acid naturally decreases, which results in a volume loss in the skin and an increase in fine lines, wrinkles and loose skin. HA fillers can be used to correct volume loss, specifically in the cheeks, temples, lips, nasolabial folds and under the eye. (2) What Should I Expect from a Dermal Filler Procedure? HA filler procedures usually take between 30-45 minutes to complete by Dr. Williams at Pacholec Center for Weight Loss & Anti-Aging Medicine, including the numbing time. The patient must first receive a numbing cream which helps to ensure the procedure is as painless as possible. Once numb, the filler is injected with a cannula or fine needle to minimize bruising. Natural results are visible immediately following the procedure. Soft, supple and smooth skin can be observed immediately following treatment since HA fillers hydrate the skin quickly and effectively. Best results will be seen a few days after procedure once any bruising or swelling has gone down. (3) How Long Do Results Last? HA fillers give long-lasting results and range from 6-9 months depending on the type of filler and area injected. Maintenance is required regularly to ensure volume is not depleted. (4) How Do I Prep For the Procedure? Let our providers know if you are prone to cold sores as lip filler treatments can stimulate a breakout. Our providers can prescribe you prophylactic treatment to prevent an outbreak from occurring prior to your procedure. We always recommend stopping any retinol products prior to an aesthetic treatment as well. (5) What Should I Do Following the Procedure? Do not go to a tanning salon or use a tanning bed for at least 48 hours following your procedure. Use a high SPF, mineral-based sunscreen when outside to protect your skin and your new skin! Do not touch or massage the area where the filler was injected for at least 48 hours following the procedure. (6) How Much Do Dermal Fillers Cost? Dermal fillers are priced per syringe. Depending on the area being treated, the depth of the wrinkles being targeted, your age and quality of your skin, our providers at Pacholec Center for Weight Loss & Anti-Aging Medicine may suggest between 1-2 syringes per treatment area. The cost per syringe ranges between $400-900. We do occasionally offer discounts and payment plans so make sure to ask our staff members if we have any specials going on prior to your treatment! You can also check our Events page for current specials and offers. (1) What is Sculptra Aesthetic?
Sculptra Aesthetic is the only FDA-approved bio-stimulant for injection to stimulate your body's own natural production of collagen. It is made of poly-L-lactic acid (PLIA), which stimulates collagen production, improves volume and restores a youthful skin "glow" over time. (2) What can I expect from the procedure? Topical numbing cream is used to desensitize the injection areas and Sculptra is injected directly into the target areas as outlined by our Master Injector and Aesthetics Director, Dr. Williams. Prior to the procedure, you will have a pre-op consult with Dr. Williams to discuss your areas of concern and develop a customized treatment plan to address your target areas over time. Since results are gradual with Sculptra Aesthetic, multiple procedures are suggested until baseline is achieved. Typically, the procedure lasts between 60-90 minutes. (3) Is there any associated down-time? Minimal swelling may occur for up to 7 days. Patients are given post-care instructions on how to achieve optimal results, which include using a rose quartz roller daily to make sure the Sculptra is evenly distributed and using daily sunscreen. (4) When will I see results? Sculptra is NOT a quick fix for volume correction or instant glow! Results occur gradually over time as the body naturally produces your own collagen in response to the injectable. Multiple sessions are usually required, spaced 6-8 weeks apart and collagen will continue to be produced for up to 2 years after your first procedure! Results are subtle, natural and have people wondering what changed and why your skin is improving with age! (5) How do I maintain results? Once baseline is achieved, it is recommended to follow-up with at least 1 vial of Sculptra Aesthetic per year to keep stimulating collagen and maintaining results. (6) How much does Sculptra Aesthetic cost? The cost of Sculptra Aesthetic is variable and how many vials are required will depend on the areas of concern, the age of the patient, lifestyle factors and prior medical history. Our board-certified Aesthetic Director, Dr. Kristen Williams, M.D. will have a pre-op consultation with you to go over your medical history, discuss your target areas and develop a treatment plan. On average, treatment may cost between $3000-6000 depending on the number of vials required for treatment. (1) What are lash extensions made of?
At Pacholec Center for Weight Loss & Anti-Aging Medicine, the lash extensions we use are made of either silk or mink fibers. These fibers are durable, strong, lightweight and silky smooth. They are the perfect combination for a subtle and natural look! (2) Who applies lash extensions at Pacholec Center for Weight Loss? Our Certified Medical Assistant (CMA), Jessica "Kelly" Smith received her certification in lash extensions from Lash Addict Studio in St Petersburg, FL. She has been a certified medical assistant for over 8 years and uses her extensive knowledge of human anatomy to precisely apply lash extensions to our patients in a comfortable and safe manner. (3) How long do lash extensions last? Since lash extensions are applied to the lash itself and not to the skin, the extensions will follow the natural growth cycle of your own lashes. Depending on your lifestyle and how you care for you lashes, they may last anywhere between 2-4 weeks before a refill is needed. Refills take about 45-60 minutes and a full new set of lashes takes between 90-120 minutes. (4) Can I wear mascara with lash extensions? Makeup, including mascara, can be applied to the lash extensions if desired. However, waterproof mascara should not be applied nor should mascara be applied to the root of the lash as this will cause the lashes to fall out faster. The lash extensions we administer provide a natural fullness to the lashes so mascara is not necessary. (5) Can I get other procedures done at Pacholec Center for Weight Loss with lash extensions? Many of our other aesthetic procedures are fine to get when you have lash extensions on. However, Plasma Pen skin tightening on the face is one procedure that CANNOT be performed when you have lash extensions. They will have to be removed prior to this procedure. Other procedures, such as Botox, fillers, threads or Sculptra can be performed while you have lash extensions applied. One of our favorite ways to improve your look with minimal effort is a combination treatment of Botox + Lash Extensions! This combination is minimally invasive and will have you looking young and flirty in no time! (6) Can I get my lash extensions wet? It is not recommended to get your new set of lash extensions wet for at least 48 hours following the treatment. This recommendation is in place to make sure the adhesive dries completely before getting wet so you do not risk your lashes falling out early. After the 48-hour period, you can swim, shower and sweat but it is not recommended to rub your eyes after getting wet. Gently pat your eyes and face with a towel after getting wet to minimize rubbing of the adhesive. It is also not recommended to use a steam room or sauna with lash extensions as this can also decrease the durability of the adhesive and make your lashes fall out sooner. (7) Will my lash extensions harm the growth of my natural lashes? No, lash extensions will not harm the growth of your natural lashes as they are not applied to the root of the lash. The adhesive used to connect the lashes never even touches your skin as the lashes are applied about 1mm away from skin to each individual lash strand. Therefore, your natural lashes will continue to grow as normal. (8) What if I have an allergic reaction to the lashes? People who have an allergic reaction to lash extensions actually have the reaction to the adhesive and not to the lash itself. If the adhesive does not dry properly or accidentally touches the skin, then an allergic reaction may occur. Allergic reactions include swelling, redness and itching of the eyelids within 3 days of your treatment. An allergic reaction is avoidable if proper aftercare procedures are employed by the patient and the technician is properly trained on how to avoid touching the skin with the adhesive. Our lash extension specialist, Kelly, is vigilant about applying lashes correctly and executes precise measurements when determining where the adhesive should be applied to the lash so that there is no danger of accidentally touching the skin. (9) How do I take care of my lash extensions? Avoid water on the lashes and face for 48 hours post-treatment. Do not go to saunas or steam rooms while you have lash extensions on and especially not for the first 48 hours. Use a mascara wand to brush your lashes daily. You can use plain water or a specific lash shampoo to "clean" your lashes with daily as well before you brush them. (10) Can I remove my lash extensions myself? No! Lash extensions are applied to each individual lash and require a trained professional to remove them correctly so your natural lashes are not damaged. A lash removal appointment takes between 30-45 minutes depending on how many lashes need to be removed. Are you ready for your lash glow up? If you would like to book an appointment with Kelly, please call one of our clinics at Pacholec Center for Weight Loss & Anti-Aging Medicine. Kelly is available for lash appointments on the last Saturday in our Lutz clinic and the last Monday in our St Petersburg clinic of every month! (1) What is it?
Plasma Pen is a skin tightening device used to enact controlled micro-damage to the upper layer of skin causing fibroblast stimulation (known as “fibroblasting”). (2) What is it made of? It is a hand-held device which utilizes plasma energy to target fibroblast stimulation beneath the dermis. It does not contain needles, nor does it actually come in contact with the skin. When it comes within a couple centimeters of the skin, an energetic reaction occurs and a carbon crust forms on the top of the skin surface. When the carbon crust scabs and falls off, new collagen is produced by the underlying fibroblasts in the dermal layer over a period of 6-12 weeks. (3) What to expect from procedure? Plasma Pen skin tightening is a 30-45 min procedure depending on area used with 2-step topical numbing process. Pain should be minimal during the procedure and there is downtime for about 2 weeks post-procedure. The plasma energy created by the device increases collagen, elastin and hyaluronic acid production over the following 6-12 weeks for smoother, firmer and healthier skin. (4) Is there any down-time? Downtime is 7-14 days, and it is crucial to remain out of direct sunlight and to always wear a mineral-based high SPF sunscreen and a hat when outdoors post-procedure! The carbon crust scabs take about 3-7 days to fall off completely, depending on the individual patient's healing abilities. Mild swelling and/or bruising may occur for the first 1-3 days post-procedure. (5) When will I see results? Results are gradual and usually can be obtained after 1-2 procedures, although more may be required depending on area, skin type, lifestyle factors etc. This procedure does require a pre and post-op appointment with Dr. Williams in either of our St Petersburg or Tampa, FL clinics. The pre-op appointment is important and includes a thorough discussion of the patient's goals and target areas for treatment. The post-op appointment occurs 6-weeks after the procedure to check collagen production and skin tightness and determine whether another treatment may be needed. Additional treatments cannot be done until at least 12 weeks post procedure, as it takes about 12 weeks to achieve optimal collagen production. (6) How long do results last? Once baseline is achieved, results may last 3-5 years on average. The patient's skin type, lifestyle factors, age and adherence to a strict skincare regimen all factor into how long results will stay viable. (7) What treatment areas do you target at Pacholec Center for Weight Loss & Anti-Aging Medicine? Upper and lower eyelids, crow’s feet, forehead lines, accordion lines, nasolabial folds, marionette lines, smoker’s lines/vertical lip lines, neck crepe and “orange peel” skin are all acceptable target areas at both our St Petersburg and Tampa, FL clinics. While the Plasma Pen skin tightening device can be used all over the body, we are not currently offering services outside of facial areas. (8) Is this device FDA approved? The Plasma Pen skin tightening device has current FDA class II approval. (9) How do I maintain results? Collagen supplementation is key to extend and maintain results over time. Dr. Williams recommends Skinade collagen drink, which is clinically proven to support collagen formation, diminish fine lines and wrinkles and improve skin tone and texture. All of our Plasma Pen patients will receive at minimum a 30-day supply of Skinade to assist in optimal collagen formation. (10) How much does Plasma Pen skin tightening cost? Plasma Pen skin tightening ranges in price depending on treatment area. Smaller treatment areas, such as the fine lines above the upper lip (i.e. "smoker's lines") start around $1200. The most popular treatment area is the double blepharoplasty (i.e. upper and lower eyelids) which starts at $1895. More extensive skin resurfacing can be upwards of $2500. All procedures include at least a 30-day supply of Skinade collagen supplement drink with price. Your actual price will be determined at your pre-op consultation with Dr. Williams in either of our St Petersburg, FL or Tampa, FL locations. Call today to set up your consultation! |
Dr. Williams, MD MPHOur Aesthetic Director, Dr. Kristen Williams, is board-certified by the American Academy of Procedural Medicine (AAOMP) in Aesthetics. Her favorite treatments are collagen-inducing procedures, such as Sculptra, threadlifts and Plasma Pen skin tightening. All aesthetic treatments are oferred in both our St Petersburg, FL & Tampa, FL locations. Archives
July 2023
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