Non Surgical Cosmetic Treatments: Do’s and Do’nts

First of all who am I to say? I founded Precision Aesthetics with Lisa A Zdinak, MD 17 years ago. I researched countless technologies and even traveled the world with Dr Zdinak when she was speaking at the Monte Carlo AntiAging Congress. While there we spent 3 days researching European technologies where we not only met the President of BTL ( Emsculpt, Emface, Emtone, Exilis and Emsella) but brought their first device to New York. We later helped them research and develop their cellulite busting technology. I have also interviewed 17,000 patients at length over the past 17 years as to what treatments they have tried, what worked and what didnt as their first point of contact with our practice.

Treatments to Avoid

CoolSculpting: Google “paradoxical hyperplasia” and “Linda Evangelista.” Paradoxical hyperplasia was noted as an adverse event in 2016 when the technology was first introduced, which is why we avoided it. It causes fat cells to multiply and harden, requiring surgical removal after a year. Linda Evangelista’s case is a notable example, resulting in a $50 million lawsuit.

IUlthera: Google “Ulthera lawsuits” and make your own decision. Class action lawsuits suggest significant issues. Ultrasound on the face seems to be problematic, with claims of nerve damage.

General Advice: Always search for any technology you’re considering alongside terms like “lawsuits” or “adverse events.” Adverse events must be reported to the FDA. Avoid any practice with less than 15 years of experience and prefer a doctor’s office over a med spa, which are often franchised and may not offer the same level of care and privacy.

Safe and Favorite Treatments

Emsculpt: While widely offered, the exact placement of the paddles, temperature, and intensity are crucial. Misuse can be dangerous, as demonstrated by cases of burns and potential harm to those with pacemakers. Exilis, which only melts fat and tightens skin without adding muscle bulk, is a favorite among informed individuals for being half the price.

Emface: This treatment also has suggested protocols and positioning, but intensity and temperature can vary.

Thermage: A top favorite at our facility, people fly in from all over the world for this one-time, non-surgical, one-hour, non-invasive facelift. Performing it effectively and safely requires a high degree of expertise, knowing the vectors, number of pulses in each area, and reaching the maximal effective temperature.

Exilis: Popular for safe body shaping and skin tightening using ultrasound and radiofrequency.

Emtone: Combines acoustic wave and radiofrequency for skin tightening and cellulite reduction.

Non Surgical Cosmetic Treatments: Do’s and Do’nts

First of all who am I to say? I founded Precision Aesthetics with Lisa A Zdinak, MD 17 years ago. I researched countless technologies and even traveled the world with Dr Zdinak when she was speaking at the Monte Carlo AntiAging Congress. While there we spent 3 days researching European technologies where we not only met the President of BTL ( Emsculpt, Emface, Emtone, Exilis and Emsella) but brought their first device to New York. We later helped them research and develop their cellulite busting technology. I have also interviewed 17,000 patients at length over the past 17 years as to what treatments they have tried, what worked and what didnt as their first point of contact with our practice.

Treatments to Avoid

CoolSculpting: Google “paradoxical hyperplasia” and “Linda Evangelista.” Paradoxical hyperplasia was noted as an adverse event in 2016 when the technology was first introduced, which is why we avoided it. It causes fat cells to multiply and harden, requiring surgical removal after a year. Linda Evangelista’s case is a notable example, resulting in a $50 million lawsuit.

IUlthera: Google “Ulthera lawsuits” and make your own decision. Class action lawsuits suggest significant issues. Ultrasound on the face seems to be problematic, with claims of nerve damage.

General Advice: Always search for any technology you’re considering alongside terms like “lawsuits” or “adverse events.” Adverse events must be reported to the FDA. Avoid any practice with less than 15 years of experience and prefer a doctor’s office over a med spa, which are often franchised and may not offer the same level of care and privacy.

Safe and Favorite Treatments

Emsculpt: While widely offered, the exact placement of the paddles, temperature, and intensity are crucial. Misuse can be dangerous, as demonstrated by cases of burns and potential harm to those with pacemakers. Exilis, which only melts fat and tightens skin without adding muscle bulk, is a favorite among informed individuals for being half the price.

Emface: This treatment also has suggested protocols and positioning, but intensity and temperature can vary.

Thermage: A top favorite at our facility, people fly in from all over the world for this one-time, non-surgical, one-hour, non-invasive facelift. Performing it effectively and safely requires a high degree of expertise, knowing the vectors, number of pulses in each area, and reaching the maximal effective temperature.

Exilis: Popular for safe body shaping and skin tightening using ultrasound and radiofrequency.

Emtone: Combines acoustic wave and radiofrequency for skin tightening and cellulite reduction.