Fillers Archives | Elite Medical & Aesthetics

Regenerative Aesthetics 101

August 31, 2025/in EMA Spotlight, Facials and Peels, Fillers, Laser and IPL /by Mary Beth Martin

Introduction:

Regenerative Aesthetics is becoming a popular buzz word in today’s society, on social media, and throughout many med spas. The Google definition of Regenerative Aesthetics is: “a field of medicine that focuses on using the body’s natural ability to heal and regenerate tissue, to rejuvenate and restore a youthful appearance, specifically in the use of cosmetic treatments.”

At Elite, we take it a step further with a functional medicine approach, to get to the root cause of certain skin/body concerns. For example, any med spa can provide treatments like IV’s, injections, hormone replacement therapy, GLP-1’s, etc., but those services will only get so far if the whole system is not addressed first.

In order to truly provide clients with healing through regenerative treatments, a deep dive into connecting every system, balancing the gut, leveling out hormones, and much more is required for regenerative treatments to truly work/provide lasting results.

This article answers FAQs regarding regenerative aesthetics, provides examples of regenerative treatments, how we do things differently, and real client photos of treatment results. Keep reading below for all the details!

What is regenerative aesthetics?

Regenerative aesthetics incorporates more holistic treatments that focus on the body’s natural healing processes to restore and rejuvenate the skin and body. This is usually achieved via procedures that stimulate the body to make more collagen or to induce an internal healing response.

The end goal of regenerative treatments is to provide “long-term” results and longevity, even though it may take more treatments and a longer time frame to see results. With that said, regenerative treatments can’t always reach their full potential if the whole body isn’t addressed through a functional medicine lens.

It is important to go to a med spa/provider that has the schooling and experience of functional medicine and aesthetics to formulate the best game plan for your concerns.

What are regenerative skin treatments?

Like mentioned earlier, regenerative skin treatments aim to restore and repair the skin, and common skin issues, through treatments that spark the body’s natural healing process and collagen production.

Here’s how it works in a more simplified break down:

1. Stimulating the skin to repair itself on a cellular level, and to rely on the body’s OWN resources to heal controlled wounds and repair any damaged skin.

2. Cell regrowth begins through this healing process and replaces the old damaged cells/tissues that often cause skin concerns like pigmentation, premature aging, lines/wrinkles, hollowing and more.

3. Collagen and elastin production begins, which is the foundation to youthful skin, firmness, and healthy tissue.

Common regenerative skin treatments include things like microneedling, resurfacing lasers, deep chemical peels, EZ gel injections, bio-stimulating injections, peptides, functional medicine protocols, wellness injections & IV’s, and more.

Read further down the blog for more details on each regenerative skin treatment.

Is regenerative aesthetics anti-aging?

Yes, regenerative aesthetics aims to work with the body to gracefully age in a way that makes each individual look beautiful, confident, and generally just look and feel their best. Oftentimes the treatments focus on anti-aging goals, but through the healing processes, the skin and body not only look more youthful but are actually healthier than before.

At Elite, we often combine aesthetic treatments with functional medicine treatments for the best client approach to skin concerns.

Here’s an example of what this might look like:

A client comes in with concerns of what looks like “melasma” (dark patches of pigment typically throughout the forehead, cheeks, and above the lip). Melasma is oftentimes a result of a hormonal imbalance in the body, not solely an issue of the skin itself. So, a combined treatment plan at Elite might include the following:

A customized hormone balancing protocol plus liver support based on personal labs and/or thorough medical history, that includes: dietary, lifestyle, and supplement changes, with subsequent follow-up appointments.
Bi-weekly Glutathione injections and/or IV’s
A package of 3 VI Peels spaced 1 month apart
1 ResurFX resurfacing laser
Skincare regimen that includes active and protective ingredients like vitamin C, retinol, and SPF (oftentimes hydroquinone is also recommended for hyperpigmentation but this is not a “regenerative treatment”)

Through this treatment plan, the client is treating the root cause of the melasma AND the skin, over just treating the skin concern topically. It is a great combination of an inner and outer beauty approach, for a true regenerative aesthetics approach with the bonus of better health as well!

Please keep in mind that like any chronic condition, skin conditions are usually just controlled and will not necessarily be “cured”. They can come back with triggers such as: intense sun exposure, hormonal fluctuations , increased toxic load, increased inflammation, etc.

What are examples of regenerative aesthetic treatments?

Some examples of regenerative aesthetic treatments might include treatments like EZ-Gel, peptides, PRP/PRF injections, microneedling, deep chemical peels, hair restoration, resurfacing lasers, IVs and injections, and more!

Below are some of the most common regenerative aesthetic treatments and ones that we offer in our office.

Keep in mind that the industry is constantly evolving and adding more treatments, so this may not cover all the treatments on the market.

Is EZ Gel a regenerative treatment?

Yes, EZ gel is a 100% natural and regenerative injection option that is derived from your own blood and warmed to create a “filler-like” consistency. It has no chemicals, additives, or artificial compounds. EZ gel is commonly used to subtly restore volume, build collagen, soften lines/wrinkles, address acne scarring, and improve skin texture and health.

Of Note: This injectable does take a series of treatments to see best results, and results may be gradual with time (up to 6-12 months), because it stimulates the body’s natural collagen production and cell re-growth which is time-dependent per individual and their baseline concern(s).

Learn more about EZ Gel injections by clicking the button below.

Are PRP/PRF Injections Regenerative?

Yes, PRP/PRF injections are regenerative because they accelerate the body’s natural healing process, as well as generate new cell growth, new blood vessels, and collagen production for healthier tissue. Both PRP (platelet rich plasma) and PRF (platelet rich fibrin) are derived from your own blood and are alternatives to synthetic injectables/products.

These injections are commonly used for hair regrowth, collagen stimulating facial injections, body injections, wound healing, and topically after microneedling to help aid in healing (aka a “vampire facial”).

The main difference between PRP/PRF injections and EZ Gel:

While both of these injectables are derived from your own blood, the main difference between the two is that EZ Gel is warmed at a specific temperature and duration of time, to create a “filler-like” gel consistency. PRP/PRF is not warmed after the blood draw and spinning in the centrifuge and remains more liquid.

Both are great natural injectable options, but determining which is best for you requires a consult with one of our providers for a customized treatment plan and assessment.

Are Bio-stimulating Injections Regenerative?

Yes, Bio-stimulating injections are regenerative skin injectables, because they aim to build collagen in the skin’s tissue for a healthier complexion, volume restoration, and to address lines/wrinkles. The main difference between HA filler injections and bio-stimulating injections is that HA filler provides an instant result, but does not stimulate collagen production for additional skin-health benefits (aka is not classified as a regenerative skin treatment).

Below are the two main bio-stimulating injectables we offer and use on our clients:

Radiesse: A dermal filler bio-stimulator that is used to restore lost volume, tighten, and improve lines and wrinkles. Radiesse is made from tiny calcium-based microspheres suspended in gel; similarly to what is naturally found in the body. With time, the gel is absorbed by the body and the natural collagen production it created remains, leaving the skin in better health than before. Radiesse is one of our favorites because it does provide immediate results AND builds collagen!
Sculptra: A bio-stimulator that is made of Poly-l-lactic acid (PLLA-the same material sutures are made from) that helps to restore the skin’s collagen, soften lines, and provide subtle volume. Once the PLLA is injected into the skin, the micro-particles are absorbed and begin to stimulate collagen growth. It is important to note that a series of 3-6 treatments are recommended for optimal results, and Sculptra does not provide immediate volume like Radiesse does.

Is Microneedling a regenerative skin treatment?

Absolutely, microneedling is a regenerative skin treatment. Microneedling treatments are a natural way to stimulate collagen production within the skin. The microneedling device’s needles create controlled micro-punctures/wounds in the skin that signals a healing cascade, and in return, the body begins to build collagen and elastin. This process can help with many skin concerns such as scarring, lines/wrinkles, texture, anti-aging, and more.

Adding-on regenerative healing agents and boosters to microneedling treatments, such as growth factors and salmon DNA, provide great additional benefits to the skin as well.

Read below on each:

Growth factor benefits include: reduces inflammation in the skin, speeds up healing, and helps aid in a healthier skin barrier, overall.
Salmon DNA benefits include: rich in vitamins, hyaluronic acid, minerals, and amino acids that are shown to help speed up healing, repair the skin quicker, and calm redness and irritation.

Below are images of real clients who received microneedling treatments and a link to learn more about microneedling!

RF Microneedling is a Regenerative Treatment, too:

Like regular microneedling, RF (radio frequency) microneedling is also a regenerative skin treatment. It has all the benefits of microneedling that were mentioned above, but also includes the radio frequency laser that helps to tighten tissue.

This dual action skin treatment also stimulates the body’s own natural collagen and elastin production as well as delivering heat energy to deeper layers of the skin, making it a great regenerative skin treatment option for those wanting to target more static wrinkles, jowling, “double chin”, more severe scarring, and stretch marks!

Are non-ablative lasers regenerative treatments?

Absolutely! Non-ablative lasers like ResurFX, are regenerative treatments because the controlled laser beam targets below the skin’s surface to increase collagen production, tighten, and resurface the skin. A few other reasons we love ResurFX as a regenerative treatment is, it does not break the skin (is non-ablative), so there is minimal downtime, and it is safe and effective for melasma (many lasers are not safe for melasma).

ResurFX is a great regenerative skin treatment that can help with lines, scarring (from acne or trauma), pigmentation, dark spots, melasma, large pores, and a healthier complexion, overall.

Of note: While we do not offer ablative (breaking of the skin) lasers in office (yet 😉), they are also a regenerative skin treatment, because they work to safely remove the outer layers of the skin to promote collagen stimulation, healing, and re-generation of new cells. These are often known as CO2 lasers and require a lot of downtime and healing.

Are chemical peels regenerative treatments?

Deep, resurfacing chemical peels are considered regenerative aesthetic treatments, because the chemical compounds travel deep into the dermis of the skin, signaling the body to heal itself and produce new, healthier skin cells. By doing so, the old/dead skin cells shed off, and the new skin cells reveal a healthier, more even-toned complexion. Through this process, collagen is also stimulated to grow, especially when completing a series of 3-6 peels.

At Elite, we specifically use VI Peel, because it is an FDA-approved, medium-deep, medical-grade chemical peel, formulated with a specific numbing agent, so the peel is comfortable for clients. Additionally, there are many VI Peel blends, so we customize each skin concern with a targeted peel for best results. VI Peels work great for anti-aging, scarring, pigmentation, melasma, acne, oiliness, large pores, and for a healthier complexion.

Click the button below to learn more about VI Peel.

Are wellness Injections/IV Therapy regenerative therapies?

Wellness injections and IV therapy are “go-to” regenerative treatments that have multiple benefits for the body and skin such as hydration, detoxification, recovery, treats deficiencies, aids in cellular repair, boosts immunity, supports hormone health, and so much more! We often like to supplement with these to help “fill in the gaps” for optimal health, too.

There are several different vitamin and mineral options, so it is important to go to a licensed provider who can create a customized treatment plan for you and puts your safety as a priority.

We carry the following options at our office:

NAD+: a coenzyme found in the body that improves energy levels and mitochondrial function, supports cognitive function, reduces inflammation, supports detoxification and SO much more!
Glutathione: also known as the body’s “master antioxidant” which is crucial in supporting the body’s immunity, hormones, gut health, and detoxification processes.
B12 and B vitamin complexes: Boosts energy, improves brain fog and mood, treats deficiencies, supports the metabolism, and boosts immunity.
Immunity blends: Comprehensive immunity-enhancing formulas that include antioxidants, vital minerals, and vitamin c to fortify the body’s natural immunity.
Hydration vitamin and mineral blends that can be customized based on client needs

It is important to note that the quality of vitamin and mineral infusions/injections is considered. At Elite, the products we carry are sourced from trusted brands with pure ingredients and free of any unwanted additives, designed to give your body exactly what you need.

How is functional medicine regenerative medicine?

Functional medicine consulting at Elite is regenerative medicine, because it is a whole body approach that focuses on the root cause of health and skin conditions. In most cases, the physical symptoms someone is experiencing is connected to the skin issues they are experiencing. So, rather than just treating each in isolation, we take a holistic approach and address the whole person and work to synergistically sync all body functions to work together for optimal health and longevity.

This takes a deep dive into gut health, hormone health, metabolic health, infections, lifestyle habits, and more. Through functional medicine consulting and customized protocols, the body heals itself naturally, to allow for the regenerative aesthetic treatments to work better, stimulate collagen/elastin efficiently, and provide total longevity.

Functional medicine includes practices like:

Lab work, testing, and thorough medical history review
Client and nurse follow ups and coaching
Lifestyle and daily habit changes
Mastering the foundational tools for a healthy body
Customized supplement, IV/injection, and peptide protocols
Introduction of detoxification protocols
Incorporation of aesthetic treatments (if necessary)
Any additional interventions needed for client success

Ali, NP is also a FMA-CP (certified practitioner) who has lots of years of schooling and experience in functional medicine. While she is always continuing her education, it is very important to seek functional medicine consulting from a licensed provider! Learn more about our functional medicine consulting below:

Are weight loss peptides regenerative?

Yes, weight loss peptides are a regenerative treatment/therapy because they have many more benefits to them than just weight loss. When weight loss peptides are micro-dosed and administered correctly, they can heal metabolic pathways, reduce inflammation, help the body lose fat without muscle, and much more.

Thus, when the body is functioning in a healed and optimal state, skin/body concerns also heal and improve naturally. Peptides can be the key to helping the body get on track!

Remember that who you see and the program you are on matters. Elite’s weight loss program offers tools for foundational health when starting weight loss peptides, lab testing, 1:1 coaching, exercise and strength training programs, and frequent follow-ups. It is more than just getting weight loss injections.

The end goal is to have the entire body working synergistically together, to look and feel its best!

Please note that micro-dosed GLP-1 therapy is not FDA approved and is considered “off-label” as a regenerative therapy. Click the link above under “Elite’s weight loss program” for all details.

Conclusion:

Overall, regenerative skin treatments go beyond the surface—they work with your body’s natural healing processes to restore, repair, and build a stronger foundation for healthier skin and body.

At Elite, we take it one step further. By integrating functional medicine, we look at the root causes of common concerns, helping your body function synergistically. This means not only looking your best, but also feeling your best—inside and out.

Beauty is more than skin deep, it’s whole-body wellness working in harmony.

Book a consultation below and experience the Elite difference.

Book a consult

Talk to one of our providers

Click Here

EZ Gel 101

January 9, 2025/in EMA Spotlight, Fillers /by Mary Beth Martin

Introduction:

At Elite, it is important to us to offer all-natural treatments, like EZ Gel, that align with our values and holistic approach to aesthetics. EZ Gel is one of our favorite all-natural injectable treatments that is effective, safe, and provides beautiful results!

EZ gel is 100% natural, meaning it has:

No chemicals
No artificial compounds
No additives
Made from your own blood

Keep reading to learn more about EZ Gel and common FAQs about this injectable treatment.

What is EZ Gel?

EZ Gel is a 100% natural, bio-stimulating gel that contains growth factors from human plasma (aka your own blood) to stimulate collagen production, soften lines, support healthier tissue/skin, and subtly restore lost volume or hollowing.

EZ Gel injections are created from your own blood through a process that includes:

An initial blood draw
Spinning the tube(s) of blood in a medical centrifuge (to separate the PRF from the blood)
Drawing the PRF into sterile syringes
Properly warming the PRF in a specialized machine to create a gel

What is EZ Gel used for?

Overall, EZ Gel is used to boost collagen and elastin production, improve skin texture, and subtly restore volume with a series of treatments (typically 3, spread 4-6 weeks apart).

Common areas that EZ Gel is injected into include:

Under eyes
Lips
Cheeks
Crows feet
Lower face
Neck lines

EZ Gel is most loved for its ability to work within the body, naturally to produce it’s own collagen and elastin for more natural and healthier skin tissue without any fillers or additives.

Is EZ Gel better than fillers?

EZ Gel is not necessarily better than fillers and fillers are not necessarily better than EZ Gel. They are both great injectable options, but one may be better suited for you and your goals/concerns. Let’s break the two down:

EZ Gel- All natural, regenerative injectable derived from your own blood that specifically stimulates collagen to create new, healthy cells. Requires a series of treatments for results, and the results are not immediate (up to 6-12 months for full effects to show). EZ Gel has minimal down time, and can be injected in more areas of the face that certain dermal fillers may not always be an option for (ie. under eyes).
Dermal Filler- Made out of HA (hyaluronic acid) and used for more dramatic and immediate results, but is not 100% natural (we do carry the cleanest/safest HA fillers on the market available). Most fillers do not require a series of treatments and results last around 10-12 months before re-evaluation for more from your injector is needed. Traditional HA fillers do not stimulate collagen production.

⭐️ While EZ Gel is 100% natural and may have fewer side effects, it is important to note that EZ Gel does not fully replace the effects and immediate results of filler and other bio-stimulating injections like Radiesse or Sculptra.

Your goals, concerns, and baseline anatomy are important factors to consider before choosing the right injectable for you! If you are unsure of what treatment you many need, it is best to schedule a consultation with one of our NP providers.

Our providers will create a customized treatment plan for you based on your goals and specifications, i.e. let us know if you only want 100% natural treatment options or are ok combining different techniques for optimal results.

What is the new treatment instead of fillers?

EZ-Gel is the new treatment/injectable in place of fillers! It’s a great option for those that simply do not want any fillers, want only 100% natural treatments or want to try something more subtle than filler. EZ gel works great great as a bio-stimulator (collagen stimulator) alone, or with other bio-stimulators such as Radiesse or Sculptra.

Disclaimer: EZ-Gel does not give the exact same immediate results as traditional filler does, but it is an all natural injectable option for those seeking an alternative to fillers. EZ Gel does help with subtle volume restoration, softening lines and wrinkles, maintaining a healthy skin complexion, stimulating collagen production, and can be used in areas like the under eyes more regularly than HA fillers.

Additionally, it is important to also address your skin as a whole and ensure that you’re following a treatment plan that potentially incorporates skin treatments such as IPL/Laser, peels, and microneedling. Combining treatments can compound results!

What are the side effects of EZ Gel?

Since EZ Gel is derived from your own blood, side effects are usually mild and rare, which is also a great benefit to this treatment!

Mild side effects include: redness, swelling, bruising, tenderness, or initial asymmetry.
Severe side effects include: nerve damage, vascular occlusion, and infection (which can mostly all be avoided with an experienced injector).

Of note: A few cases of HIV and Hepatitis C have been noted at non-medical clinics where “clinicians” did not followed proper guidelines and shared blood products between patients. That is why it is crucial to see a professional medical injector for any injections, but especially when there is a risk for blood borne infections.

*This is just a list of possible side effects/risks. Always consult with your injector/provider for a list of all potential side effects/risks*

Who is a good candidate for EZ Gel?

EZ Gel is a treatment ideal for those looking for subtle/gradual volume restoration, healthier skin tissue, and a natural, minimally invasive injectable option. Because EZ Gel is made from your own blood, most people are candidates for this treatment and it is a great injectable for those who had side effects or reactions to filler but still want some of the benefits of filler.

EZ Gel is also a great preventative treatment to begin when you are younger to help maintain healthy collagen and tissue. Lastly, EZ Gel can be a great introductory injectable if you are unsure about dermal fillers, too.

How many EZ Gel treatments do you need?

Typically, most people will need a minimum of three EZ Gel treatments spread 4-6 weeks apart. Also, to maintain results it is recommended to get yearly treatments (or follow your individualized treatment protocol from your injector). Keep in mind, some people may need more sessions depending on their goals, concerns, and baseline.

Schedule a consult with one of our NP providers to get a customized EZ Gel treatment plan.

How long does EZ Gel last?

After a series of three treatments, clients can expect 2-4 month of lasting improvement. However, EZ Gel continues working within the body to build natural collagen production up to 6-12 months post treatment, so most people can see results up to one year after injections.

To help maintain results, we do recommend yearly maintenance treatments and to follow your treatment plan from your provider.

What is the difference between EZ Gel and Sculptra?

While EZ Gel and Sculptra are both injectables that stimulate collagen, one of the main differences is what they’re made out of:

EZ Gel is made from your own blood plasma, and is 100% natural. Whereas Sculptra is made from Poly L Lactic Acid (PLLA), which is what sutures (stitches) are made from, and though very safe and effective, is not considered to be 100% natural.

Both of these injectables:

Require a series of treatments to see results (typically 3)
Stimulate your body to produce collagen and elastin
Provide: healthier skin tissue, softening of lines/wrinkles, subtle volume, and natural facial rejuvenation
Do not show immediate plumping effects like filler
Final results may take 6-12 months to notice

There are a few additional “pro’s and con’s” to both of these such as: Sculptra cannot be injected in the under eye area like EZ Gel can be, Sculptra may have more noticeable differences than EZ gel in some areas, EZ Gel does require a blood draw, etc.

To know which injectable is best for you, consult with one of our NP providers for a customized treatment plan.

How to fill under eyes without fillers?

EZ-Gel is one of the best injectable options to address under eye concerns such as hollowing, lines/wrinkles, and sagging. Unlike filler, EZ Gel settles beautifully without migration and overfilling, which are common unwanted side effects with filler in the under eyes (typically needs to be dissolved to fix). EZ Gel also stimulates the body’s own natural collagen, so the skin around the eyes appears healthier and more refreshed with a series of treatments.

What is the downtime like after EZ Gel?

Another reason many people love EZ Gel is there is minimal downtime associated with the injections/treatment. It is not uncommon to have mild swelling, redness and “pin-point” bruising at the injection site. This usually subsides within 24 to 48 hours after treatment.

Common instructions following treatment may include:

Avoiding touching the area for 24 hours and only putting on approved products
Avoiding intense exercise and/or sweating for the first 24 hours
Avoiding taking blood thinning medications/supplements for the first 24-48 hours to mitigate chances of bruising (unless prescribed for other conditions)
Taking bromelain and arnica (natural supplement remedies) to help with any swelling or bruising

⭐️ Note: not medical advice, be sure to always follow your office’s post-treatment instructions and follow up with your injector if you have any concerns or questions.

Does EZ Gel Migrate?

No, EZ Gel does not migrate! Because the gel is dissolved by your body within a month or so, migration is not a typical side effect. However, any product that is over-filled, especially in a confined space like lips, can migrate if there is too much of it for the space. It should (theoretically) dissolve on it’s own, but we can’t say 100% since we have never seen it happen, and it would never happen at our clinic as we are always cautious to not over-fill. Seeing an experienced, licensed medical provider can help prevent complications.

What is the difference between PRF and EZ Gel?

The difference between EZ gel and PRF (platelet-rich fibrin) is basically that EZ Gel is PRF that has been heated and then combined with non-heated concentrate. It goes like this:

EZ gel takes PRP/PRF that is heated in a specialized machine to a target temperature that thickens it into a more gel/filler like consistency. Then, it is cooled and mixed with the most potent healing cells that were spun down during the process of spinning regular blood into PRF. Once the heated gel and the healing cells are mixed, and fully blended together, you have EZ-gel!

How much does EZ Gel cost?

On average, EZ Gel costs around $600-800 per area, per treatment. With that being said, a series of at least 3 treatments (spread 4-6 weeks apart) is required for EZ Gel to see optimal results.

At EMA, we offer package pricing that provides additional savings, versus paying for each single session alone. We also offer two budgeting/financing options in our office that include:

To view our treatment pricing, click the button below.

Does EZ Gel really work?

Yes, EZ Gel really does work! It is important to note that the improvements are gradual (with a series of treatments) and less dramatic than what is typically seen with HA fillers and bio-stimulators like Radiesse.

Knowing what you can expect with any injectables treatment is crucial, and we recommend to consult with a licensed professional to explore options best suited for your aesthetic goals.

See a before and after EZ Gel picture from a real client below 👇

EZ Gel before and afters

Below are images of real clients in our office who received EZ Gel.

Conclusion:

In summary, there are many benefits and reasons to love EZ Gel!

1. Completely natural injectable option that is derived from your own blood = less risk for reactions
2. Minimal downtime! Mild swelling for 24-48 hours and potential for bruising from initial pokes
3. Results continue to improve over time
4. Boosts natural collagen production = your results may last longer than traditional fillers
5. Subtly restores volume = natural looking results and can be used in areas that filler is often not appropriate for, like mild under eye hollowing

Book a consultation below with one of our NP providers to see how EZ Gel might be a great treatment for you!

Book Now

Talk with one of our providers

Click Here

Red Flags in Aesthetics

July 10, 2024/in Botox, Facials and Peels, Fillers, Laser and IPL /by Mary Beth Martin

Introduction

When it comes to your face and getting aesthetic treatments, expectations for the injector and medical office should be set high. This is your face we are talking about here!

At Elite Medical and Aesthetics we are grateful to have a highly trained staff of all RN & NP injectors, with real medical backgrounds, and we know we are in good hands when we get procedures done for ourselves. But, if we were looking to have a procedure done elsewhere, there are definitely red flags 🚩 we would look out for.

We’re not just talking about the crazy situations like counterfeit Botox or people contracting HIV in clinics either, yes these happened in 2024! But also some stealth things to look out for.

In this post we will go over the Top 10 Red Flags in Aesthetics to be aware of to keep you safe, provide natural results, and maintain a happy and healthy client relationship.

1. Prices are cheap:

If the price seems “too good to be true” it probably is. Quality aesthetic procedures are not cheap for many reasons such as: paying for authentic products, laser/IPL machinery, and for the licensed providers’ time. Not to mention the cost of additional supplies to do the procedure (syringes, gauze, alcohol, gloves, etc.), education to perform the procedure well, the actual office/office equipment, documentation software, support staff, licensing, insurance, high quality before and after care products provided, etc. Basically, it costs a lot of money to run a legit clinic and offer a legit service!

If the price of a treatment is super cheap or promoted on Groupon (talking injectables here and not a base treatment like a wax or facial), it should be an instant red flag! Typically if someone is offering a super cheap injectable service it is for one of these reasons:

They are brand new and have been given free product to practice, so YOU are who they are going to practice on.
They are using diluted products without telling you and just advertising a discount, i.e. charging you 1/2 price for a “syringe” of filler when half the syringe is actually mixed with saline (sadly we have seen “legit” clinics do this too 😢 )
They are using FAKE products or reusing products or supples, i.e. counterfeit or foreign (not FDA approved) products, sharing syringes or supplies between clients
They are treating their clients as just a numbers game, i.e. seeing as many clients as possible in the day rather than providing quality, individualized treatment. You can’t rush a great result 🙂 .

When it comes to aesthetic treatments and procedures you get what you pay for, and never settle to save money if it means risking your safety. Consider this equation for instance:

💰 Paid $300 for bad lip filler, had to pay $350 to have it dissolved then an additional $800 to be refilled= $1450 for lip filler rather than just paying the $575-800 the first time at Elite 💰

⭐️ Note- We’re not bashing clinicians that promote on Groupon with non-medical procedures or a base non-injectable treatment. It is when all prices are always bottom line, that you should be weary.

2. Places that over-fill or never say "no":

Medical spas and/or clinicians that never say “no” is an instant red flag for us. Dermal filler is lasting much longer than previously thought and it doesn’t always need to be touched up every X amount of months. We always assess our patient first in person before deciding if they could do more filler, especially in the lips where it’s a very delicate balance.

When clinicians keep filling no matter what it causes a “pillow face filler” look, where people just look puffy or distorted. Other trends such as “Russian lips” are also a red flag:

First off, this aesthetic trends can actually be unsafe for a client if their anatomy cannot handle the large amount of filler being injected.
Secondly, the filler looks great right after the injections, but when the client comes back in after a few months the filler is almost ALWAYS migrated and looks poor/over-filled. This then leads to having to get the filler completely dissolved or dissolved and corrected/re-filled.

Going to medical spa and/or an injector that is not afraid to say “no” is important, because they are the expert, and know what treatments will be best suited for you to keep you looking natural and like yourself.

💉 Also, just because an aesthetic treatment is “popular” or “trendy” does not mean it is going to provide lasting results, or is even safe for everyone. At Elite, our injectors have an artistic eye and ability to provide natural, balanced results for our clients.

3. Injector looks over-done:

Before getting aesthetic treatments done, research your injector and look at their photos and the work they have done from their before and after images. Oftentimes we see that injectors who look over-done provide over-done results.

💉 If you are seeking a natural, balanced, and harmonized look make sure your injector looks that way too, and their approach to aesthetic treatments align with yours. We always recommend scheduling a consultation with the provider(s) you are interested in going to, to ask questions and get more familiar with them and their work. Below you will see pictures of our injectors and how natural their Tox, filler, and skincare treatments are. 💜

Reminder: It is a true art to look at someone and provide natural, balanced results that enhance their appearance rather than just injecting everyone the same. We are unique in the fact that all of our injectors have an artistic eye and always focus on facial harmony.

4. Appointment times are short:

If your appointment time seems short or feels rushed in any way, this is often a red flag! Aesthetic treatments take time, and you should feel taken care of the minute you walk in, until you are checked out. Over-booking and cramming schedules full of clients can lead to mistakes, poor treatment outcomes, and unhappy clients.

⏰ For each appointment there should be an appropriate amount of time for the following:

Go over medical history & background
Go through informed consent and any questions or concerns
An explanation of the treatment and what to expect
The actual treatment, itself (if applicable)
Post care instruction explanation
Walking you up to the front desk for check out and follow-up scheduling

Additionally, through these appointment times, our providers like to get to know our clients on a more personal level and build a relationship.

5. The injector has no medical credentials:

Injectors should not only have appropriate medical credentials, but also proper training/ continued research in their specialty. It varies per state, but there are also certain medical requirements/credentials required for providers to perform different aesthetic treatments, ESPECIALLY injectables and IPL/lasers. You can search these requirements and a providers licensing with your state’s regulatory department (CO is DORA).

💉 Additionally, there are always potential side effects/risks with any aesthetic treatment, so going to a provider who knows how to avoid these risks and what protocol to follow if there is an incident is crucial for your safety. Most medical spas will have their providers’ medical credentials listed on business cards, websites, and even framed in their rooms, but if you are ever unsure what credentials a provider has, don’t be afraid to ask them!

Also remember, clinicians that have a license to protect not only have education and training to (hopefully) not do something stupid like buy fake products or share needles (they know the risks!), but they are also held accountable by a licensing board and worked very hard to get it=will work very hard to protect it.

Example of investment for Ali, NP:

5 years of undergrad for Sports Medicine and Nursing degrees
2 years for dual NP program: FNP, AGACNP
1 year aesthetics fellowship
Hundreds of thousands of dollars invested in education, licensing, and training to get to be a NP injector and business owner.

At Elite, you can find our providers’ medical degrees hung on the walls in their treatment rooms, listed on our website bio’s, and on their business cards

6. Constantly pushing procedures or acting "salesy":

If you ever feel pressured to buy products or procedures at a medical spa, this can be a red flag! The staff members at medical spas should have your best interest at heart and suggest the treatments and products that are beneficial for your individual needs. If you feel anyone is acting “salesy” or “pushy” they could potentially be trying to:

Meet commission goals
Push product that isn’t selling
Or have other ultimatums that do not benefit you, but benefits them

💰 At Elite, our providers and staff are non-commissioned. By doing this, it mitigates any pressure for our staff to “make sales” and lets them truly talk to clients and build a treatment plan that is going to help them achieve their goals.

*Note: This is not to say that automatically commission-based medical spas are a red flag, but to just be aware of this type of behavior in general.

7. Inability to answer basic medical questions or explain how they respond to emergencies:

If an injector/provider has a hard time answering basic medical questions that you have about a procedure or product, this should be a major red flag! If they are overly offended by what you read on Google this is a red flag as well. Providers that have appropriate schooling, licensing, training, and do continued research on each treatment that they offer, should be confident to answer any of your questions or concerns, no matter where they came from.

Informed consent is also a legal REQUIREMENT before any medical procedure in order to inform you on: risks, side effects, expectations, benefits, and any other medical questions that may arise. Additionally, each procedure/treatment should have a protocol for any emergency that may be possible for the treatment, and the provider should know exactly what steps to take if this occurs. So don’t be afraid to ask them!

💉 Remember, aesthetic treatments are elective, but they are still medical procedures and should always be treated as such.

8. Lack of communication & follow-up:

Communication is key for a successful and trusting relationship, and this goes for your relationship with a medical spa and/or injector. Most conflicts arise from lack of communication or follow up, and at Elite, we have set protocols to ensure our clients are taken care of, feel heard, and are valued.

Important forms of communication and follow up may include:

Friendly and helpful conversations with all staff members at the office
Reminder texts/emails/calls before your appointment
Easily getting ahold of the medical office during operating hours (and a way to get ahold of someone if there is ever an emergency during closed hours)
Feeling comfortable to share information, ask questions, and share any concerns with your injector
24 hour post filler injectable follow up/check in
1 week follow up with all treatments
Access to scheduling and booking a follow up appointment/any appointment desired (online booking, texting, or calling)

💜 Basically, you want to go somewhere where the relationship is continued, and valued, beyond when payment is taken.

9. They only offer products that they profit the most on, as opposed to the best product fit for the patient:

It is common to see medical spas bragging about “being the top account” for certain big pharma companies, and while this does show they do a lot of procedures, it also shows they have bias (in our humble opinion). This is because they typically either, a. work for that company, or b. order such high quantities of products from that company that they get a discount. This is a problem for us personally for 2 reasons:

It’s hard to stay objective when you work for the company that is providing you with all of the training and data. Ali, NP has gone down the rabbit hole on studies provided by pharma companies and has found big conflicts of interest, i.e. the company that provided the study also paid for the study and there are objective 3rd party studies with the exact opposite findings
When clinicians receive huge discounts to order just one brand of products, they are often pigeon holed into using that one brand of product, regardless if it is the best fit of safest for the client.

At Elite, we stay objective to “big pharma” companies and offer the safest products to our clients.

👇 Here’s 4 reasons why this is important to us, and why it should be important to you, too 👇

We only use the safest products based on research, NOT marketing or how the company can benefit from us and our product sales. Thus, we do not participate in the big pharma reward programs (that are collecting you data btw). See below for more info on our in-house loyalty programs and membership options.
We do not offer products/procedures based off of a brand name. A popular brand name does not mean it is the safest or best suited for individual clients.
We train on, research in depth, and try all products/treatments on ourselves before offering it to our clients. This ensures that products meet our high safety profile and cleaner, less-toxic standards.
Our providers believe that each client should be treated differently, and this does require different products! Ali, NP has declined being a trainer for any pharma companies to remain true to her morals and ethics.

Overall, this means that we can’t provide as big of discounts as some other companies that just use one brand, but at least you know what we are providing is ethical and safe.

Learn more about Elite Medical & Aesthetics’s values below:

10.injectors don't follow basic sanitary protocols:

We have seen on social media and, in many in person trainings unfortunately, many providers/injectors fail to follow basic sanitary protocols during procedures. This may include examples like:

The provider does not wash their hands or sanitize their hands before starting the procedure
The provider does not wear gloves or doesn’t change them if they touch something unsanitary (usually their face, phone or a door handle)
Hair is down and flowing into the area they are injecting filler (contaminates area)
Provider does not sanitize/prep the client’s skin before a treatment, i.e. injecting them through their make-up instead of cleaning first
Provider touches the needle when injecting or cleans it on gauze
Not sanitizing their chair/tray between clients
Bulky/hanging jewelry that is touching the client’s skin (contaminates area)

While some of these examples may seem to be “nit-picky”, they are really important, basic sanitary protocols that should be taken seriously during every procedure to prevent risk of infection.

Conclusion:

Overall, if you are going to do aesthetic treatments, make sure the medical spa and their providers align with your views, prioritize your safety, and make you feel comfortable and well taken care of.

If any of these red flags 🚩 seem to be occurring and make you question your care, it is never too late to make a switch!

Elite Medical & Aesthetics is a premier med spa located in Lone Tree, CO that takes a holistic approach to natural results. We pride ourselves in having an all nursing staff of NP’s that put safety as #1 priority.

Book a Consult

Talk with one of our providers

Click Here

The Most Natural Appearing Treatments

April 29, 2024/in Botox, Fillers, Laser and IPL /by Mary Beth Martin

Introduction:

At Elite, we achieve natural aesthetic results by:

1. Having artistic injectors with real medical backgrounds that create natural appearing results

2. Using the “cleanest”, most effective products that settle to appear more natural

The key to natural aesthetic results and treatments is having clients still feel and look like themselves, just refreshed. Our NP and RN injectors use their artistic abilities to balance and harmonize facial features with different treatments like:

Tox
Fillers
IPL/Lasers
Microneedling
Effective skincare routines

Keep reading below to learn more about different natural aesthetic treatments and products that we offer.

What is the most natural filler?

More natural natural fillers we like to use are Radiesse and RHA. These two fillers, and a bio-stimulator for Radiesse, usually provide our clients with natural looking results AND are made out of the cleanest ingredients, which lessens the potential for adverse reactions and side effects, too.

Let’s break down these two fillers a little more

Does Radiesse look natural?

Radiesse provides clients with natural results because it is made out of smooth calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA) microspheres which allows for this injectable to not only fill an area, but also stimulate collagen production.

This client had Radiesse injected in her cheek and jawline regions to restore volume.

Is RHA a natural filler?

RHA is a more natural HA (hyaluronic acid) filler because it is formulated to closely resemble the natural hyaluronic acid in your skin. It also adapts to your facial movements, resulting in the filler looking great in motion and at rest.

This client achieved natural, balanced results using RHA filler for full face balancing.

Which fillers look most natural?

In our opinion, the most natural looking fillers usually include RHA, Radiesse and Versa. However, it is important to keep in mind that it is more about the injector’s eye and ability to provide natural filler results with filler, rather than solely based on a product. In order for someone to look natural and like themselves, there are several factors that injectors have to consider and look at in each individual.

You cannot expect to get natural results from injectable treatments, if an injector is injecting everyone the same. The combination of an artistic injector and quality products are the ultimate goal for natural and safe results.

Are there non-toxic fillers?

While we can’t speak for all fillers, most fillers are considered to be non-toxic. This is not to say that some fillers have cleaner ingredients than others, though.

As mentioned above, Radiesse, RHA, and Versa are our most loved fillers, because they are backed by science to work cohesively with our bodies, have high safety profiles, and have less adverse reactions than some other fillers on the market.

🤓 That is why we do our own extensive research, trainings, and always try products on ourselves first, before offering them in our office to our clients.

Learn more about Elite’s cleaner, less toxic products by watching the video below.

What is the safest filler?

The safest fillers are hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers because they can be immediately dissolved with hylenex if there is an adverse reaction, side effect, or unwanted result. Ensure you go to an injector who has an updated protocol for dissolving all filler injectables, because your safety should always be priority! At Elite, all of our NP and RN injectors not only have years of real medical background/experience but they also have been trained to keep clients safe and prevent side effects from happening.

Keep in mind, an emergency can always happen, even in highly trained hands, so make sure your injector knows how to handle these situations and it equipped with the right tools.

Does Sculptra look more natural than fillers?

Sculptra can look more natural than fillers because it is solely a collagen stimulating injectable, therefore it does not immediately fill/plump an area like filler does. Sculptra does require a series of (at least) 3 treatments to achieve optimal collagen production to see results. Sculptra is mostly beneficial as an anti-aging preventative treatment, or for someone looking for a collagen stimulating injectable only.

In this case, it is important to go to schedule a consultation to talk about options best for your individual concerns and goals.

What is the cleanest form of Botox?

The cleanest form of Botox, or neurotoxin, is Xeomin. Xeomin is the cleanest form of neurotoxin, because it is double-filtered to remove any unnecessary proteins and does not contain “complexing proteins”. Complexing proteins are like a shell that protects Botulinum Toxin from stomach acid in it’s natural form, but are not necessary for purified injections. Products like Botox, Dysport, and Jeuveau all contain complexing proteins. The more foreign protein injected, the higher likelihood the immune system will recognize and react, leading to resistance or adverse effects.

While we do carry other neurotoxins in our office for client preferences, we educate and inform our clients on why we believe in using Xeomin, and how it is a cleaner, “less-toxic” neurotoxin that provides great results. Education is always important before getting injectables.

💉 Side note, the new product Daxxify, also does not contain complexing proteins. Elite does not offer this product at this time because of inconsistent results reported, and because there is not at least 2 years of data on it being in use. We will let the company perfect their product and then re-evaluate later 🙂 .

Is there a natural facial cream that works like botox?

No, there is not a cream that works like Botox, its just not possible! Lotions, creams, and serums can only penetrate into the skin to a certain depth, whereas Tox injections are injected into the muscle and work to halt the movement of the muscle to prevent lines and wrinkles.

⭐️ With that being said, a customized skincare routine is still effective for anti-aging and healthy skin overall. Retinols, AHA/BHA, mineral sunscreen, and peptides are some of our favorite products to use in a skincare routine.

Is it possible to look natural with Botox?

Absolutely! You SHOULD look natural with Botox (or Xeomin, Dysport, Jeuveau) injections. When injected properly to your individual concerns, neurotoxins work to temporarily stop the muscle movement where it is injected. This softens lines and wrinkles for a more refreshed and youthful appearance (aka a very natural looking treatment).

Also, our injectors especially like this treatment for preventative and anti-aging measures.

Check out real client images of natural Tox injections below

Natural Botox results:

Here, our client’s goal was to soften lines and wrinkles in her glabella (11’s), forehead, and crowsfeet. As you can see she still looks like herself just a little more refreshed and youthful!

Tox injections are one of our most loved treatments for this exact reason, you look like you 😉

Is microneedling a natural skin treatment?

Yes, microneedling and RF microneedling are natural skin treatments, because they work by causing a controlled wound that signals your body to repair it. Through this process, your own natural collagen and elastin are produced.

After a series of these treatments, skin can appear:

-Tighter

-Plumper

-Softer lines and wrinkles

-Softened acne scarring

-Even skin tone/texture

Microneedling treatments provide natural results for many people by encouraging healthier skin, overall.

Does IPL provide natural-looking results?

Yes, IPL 3-in-1 treatments provide natural results. This skin treatment has the ability to brighten the skin by targeting discoloration, and tighten the skin by heating up the water in our skin’s tissue.

Here, you can see an amazing B&A of a client who received 7 IPL treatments over a year and half (no other skin treatments/injectables). She looks more youthful because her skin is more even-toned and her lines/wrinkles are softened.

Can IPL treatments make you look more youthful?

Yes, IPL treatments can make you look more youthful by brightening and tightening your skin. Oftentimes, discoloration, sun spots, lines and wrinkles can make someone look older than they actually are. IPL treatments target these concerns to provide healthier skin without downtime or injectables. The heat from the IPL pulses also stimulates collagen creating a tightening effect.

Keep in mind though to achieve optimal results its best to

Complete a series of treatments
Do maintenance treatments yearly
Use a mineral sunscreen every day for protection and a retinol to encourage skin cell turnover

Learn more about IPL treatments below.

Our Team's Natural Aesthetic Results:

We all have different aesthetic treatments done, and look natural and like ourselves! Below are images of the treatments we have had done at the time of the photos taken!

Bottom line: Natural results come from your injector/provider

While cleaner, less toxic injectables, lasers/IPL, and skincare are all important in considering a more natural approach to aesthetics, keep in mind that the person doing the treatment is the most important aspect of providing you with natural results! It is important for injectors to have an artistic side where they can look at someone and balance their features for a natural result.

People tend to look fake or “overdone” when their features are not harmonized and balanced 💜

Elite Medical & Aesthetics is a premier med spa located in Lone Tree, CO that takes a holistic approach to natural results. We pride ourselves in having an all nursing staff of NP’s that put safety as #1 priority.

Book a Consult

Talk with one of our providers

Click Here

What Aesthetic Treatments are Pregnancy Safe?

December 4, 2023/in Botox, Facials and Peels, Fillers, Laser and IPL /by Mary Beth Martin

Introduction

As you probably know, some things you are told you “cannot do” when pregnant, are not because they are known to cause serious harm but are simply because they have not been studied. Anything that has not been studied during pregnancy is generally considered an automatic “No”. However, there are many treatments that can be considered “theoretically safe” and others that have shown in retrospective studies to be “safe”.

Keep in mind though that every case is different and even if a treatment is considered “safe”, it may not be safe for everyone. Treatments are always considered on a case by case basis after consultation in the office.

This blog will help to cover our Providers’ insight into common aesthetic treatments such as:

Disclaimer!!

This Information is NOT medical advice. It is educational only and a very brief insight into how we approach procedures during pregnancy or breast-feeding. It is always recommended to get clearance from your OBGYN/midwife. Additionally, a consult is always required with us before any treatment, in order to throughly discuss procedures per your unique case.

Is botox pregnancy safe?

Botulinum Toxin injections (tox injections) like: Botox, Xeomin, Dysport, Jeuveau, Daxxify have become very common treatments and a lot of women are super bummed to have to stop for pregnancy. There are many people, however, that do continue to get these treatments during pregnancy for medical reasons (i.e. migraines or TMJ) and many people that had been getting them before realizing they were pregnant.

In those cases, we can look at outcomes over 20-30 years through retrospective studies (studies that look at data in hindsight) and these show there is not a noticeable difference in infant health with women who were pregnant and got botulinum toxin injections versus those who did not. Additionally, drug dictionaries such as Epocrates (2023) label medications like “Xeomin” and “Botox Cosmetic” to be safe during pregnancy.

However, since there are no placebo-controlled studies to show safety of botulinum toxin injections during pregnancy, we still recommend to NOT get this treatment while pregnant unless medically necessary. Come see us for all your Tox needs once your baby has arrived . In special circumstances, and with OBGYN/Midwife clearance, we will discuss the treatment with you but may still recommend against it.

Retrospective Study Link: HERE

Conclusion of a retrospective study. Link to full study above 👆

Drug dictionary definition for Botox Cosmetic and Xeomin.

Is botox safe while breast feeding?

Just like above, Botulinum Toxin injections are considered safe during breast-feeding in retrospective studies as well as in drug dictionaries like Epocrates (2023). However, it is still always a case by case basis.

Ultimately it is a personal choice and we typically leave this up to the woman to decide after she is given all of the pros and cons during informed consent. She will also be required to sign a waiver acknowledging that there are no double-blind placebo controlled studies and that she participates at her/her babies own risk.

When women do choose to proceed, many women will “pump and dump” the day they get injections.

Please be aware that for medical reasons we may at times still decline to treat if mom is not in great health postpartum.

Is lip filler pregnancy safe?

The actual injecting of HA (hyaluronic acid) filler into the lips is theoretically safe during pregnancy, but the risks that can be associated with injecting lip filler make this treatment unsafe for pregnant women. Overall, lip filler is a “NO” for our EMA team and NP injectors

These lip filler risks and side effects can include:

Vascular Occlusions
Infection
Delayed/poor wound healing

Plus, anxiety with needles and general pain/discomfort with injections can cause unnecessary stress on mom and baby. Additionally, when you are pregnant, its common to retain more fluid than normal and can cause areas of the face (like the lips) to be more puffy and swollen than normal. Overall, you are not at your baseline for an appropriate filler assessment, and this aesthetic treatment is considered to be elective.

Is lip filler safe while breast feeding?

Lip filler is theoretically safe during breast-feeding but there are risks to every procedure. We require a 1:1 consult with one of our Nurse Practitioner (NP) injectors at Elite Medical & Aesthetics in order to do lip filler at any time, but especially if there are other factors such as breast-feeding.

Ultimately it is a personal choice and we typically leave this up to the woman to decide after she is given all of the pros and cons during informed consent. She will also be required to sign a waiver acknowledging that there are no double-blind placebo controlled studies and that she participates at her/her babies own risk.

When women do choose to proceed, many women will “pump and dump” the day they get injections.

Please be aware that for medical reasons we may at times still decline to treat if mom is not in great health postpartum.

Is microneedling pregnancy safe?

Our Nurse Practitioner providers view microneedling (with a consultation beforehand) to be safe during pregnancy. Especially if you do not use the topical numbing agents, like lidocaine, and receive a lower-depth treatment (aka micro-channeling) to lower your risks.

Keep in mind though, that any time the skin is punctured or broken, there is a potential risk for the following:

Poor or impaired wound healing, especially if the treatment is done at higher depths
Unnecessary stress or anxiety triggered from needles

Although lidocaine is considered a safe drug during pregnancy, it is still a medication that was once used for cardiac reasons and it can effect blood pressure, making some pregnant women sensitive to it. It is best to avoid using any unnecessary medication (topical or internal) during pregnancy. A full drug dictionary definition is provided below

Overall, since microneedling is more of an elective treatment during pregnancy, it could be best to wait until baby is here to do a series of treatments at an appropriate depth for total results depending on what your aesthetic concerns are. Book a consultation with one of our providers if you have lingering questions about microneedling during pregnancy.

Is microneedling safe while breast feeding?

Microneedling is considered theoretically safe while breast-feeding so long as the client (the mom) is in good health. However, every treatment will require a 1:1 consult with one of our Nurse Practitioners for approval at Elite Medical & Aesthetics.

Ultimately it is a personal choice and we typically leave this up to the woman to decide after she is given all of the pros and cons during informed consent. She will also be required to sign a waiver acknowledging that there are no double-blind placebo controlled studies and that she participates at her/her babies own risk.

When women do choose to proceed, many women will “pump and dump” the day they get the procedure if lidocaine is used.

Please be aware that for medical reasons we may at times still decline to treat if mom is not in great health postpartum.

Is IPL 3-in-1 pregnancy safe?

Technically IPL, or photofractional, is contradicted treatment during pregnancy, because there are no studies showing its safety during pregnancy. However, if the client is a candidate for IPL, is only spot treating certain areas, or is avoiding the use of topical lidocaine, this treatment could be considered safe (case by case scenario always). Overall, we recommend to consult with a medically trained professional, and to get clearance by your OBGYN/midwife, to see if IPL is a treatment that could be considered safe for you.

Note: Topical lidocaine, like mentioned earlier, is considered a safe drug to use during pregnancy. However, if it can be avoided, then that is best as some people can be sensitive to it and it can affect blood pressure in some. (See image above of lidocaine drug dictionary definition)

Is IPL 3-in-1 safe while breast feeding?

IPL is considered theoretically safe during breast-feeding so long as the client (mom) is in good health. However, every treatment will require a 1:1 consultation with one of our providers.

Ultimately it is a personal choice and we typically leave this up to the woman to decide after she is given all of the pros and cons during informed consent. She will also be required to sign a waiver acknowledging that there are no double-blind placebo controlled studies and that she participates at her/her babies own risk.

When women do choose to proceed, many women will “pump and dump” the day they get the procedure if lidocaine is used.

Please be aware that for medical reasons we may at times still decline to treat if mom is not in great health postpartum.

Are chemical peels pregnancy safe?

Medium to deep chemical peels like our favorite, VI Peel, are not safe to do during pregnancy. Topical chemical peels contain certain chemicals that are not considered safe to put on the skin or inhale while pregnant.

Additional ingredients that are often found in chemical peels that are also NOT pregnancy safe include:

Retinoic acid
TCA
Benzoyl Peroxide
Phenol
High doses of Salicylic acid (products containing 2% or less of salicylic acid are pregnancy safe, as some women struggle with hormonal acne during pregnancy and this ingredient does help mitigate it).

Keep in mind that what we put topically onto our skin is absorbed through the skin into the blood stream. This aesthetic facial treatment is a definite “NO” for our EMA providers, to ensure pregnant mommas steer clear of potentially harmful chemicals.

Are chemical peels safe while breast feeding?

Some chemical peels are safe while breast-feeding but we do require a 1:1 consultation to discuss an appropriate treatment plan and various options during breast feeding.

Is facial filler pregnancy safe?

Facial filler during pregnancy is not recommended from our providers at Elite! It’s not that the ingredients of the filler itself is harmful for pregnancy, it’s the potential risks that come along with facial filler that could be harmful during pregnancy.

These risks and side effects may include the following:

Infection
Vascular Occlusion
Unnecessary stress from needles and pain
Poor or delayed wound healing

Important to note: your facial features change during pregnancy because it is not uncommon to retain more fluids and swell causing you to look a little more “puffy” than usual. Injecting filler into someone who is not at baseline is not smart anyways. Once baby has arrived, and you feel back to normal come see us for your facial filler concerns 💜

Is facial filler safe while breast feeding?

Just like with lip filler above, facial filler is theoretically safe during breast-feeding but requires a 1:1 consultation with a Nurse Practitioner.

Ultimately it is a personal choice and we typically leave this up to the woman to decide after she is given all of the pros and cons during informed consent. She will also be required to sign a waiver acknowledging that there are no double-blind placebo controlled studies and that she participates at her/her babies own risk.

When women do choose to proceed, many women will “pump and dump” the day they get the procedure.

Please be aware that for medical reasons we may at times still decline to treat if mom is not in great health postpartum.

Is Sculptra pregnancy safe?

There could be arguments that Sculptra during pregnancy is safe, however at Elite, we still do not recommend getting this injectable treatment while pregnant, mainly because it is an elective treatment that could cause pain=stress during pregnancy.

Sculptra is made of PLLA (ploy-L-lactic acid) that is not itself unsafe during pregnancy, but instead it is the procedure and needle in the face that can lead to potential infection, poor wound healing, possible vascular occlusion, and unnecessary stress on the body. These risks and side effects are unsafe for pregnant women, so we steer clear of this and always put your safety as the number one priority.

Our general consensus is: maybe could be safe, but not recommend due to the risks of the actual treatment and that you are not at baseline for injectable treatments.

Is Sculptra safe while breast feeding?

Sculptra is considered theoretically safe while breast-feeding so long as the client (the mom) is in good health. However, every treatment will require a 1:1 consult with one of our Nurse Practitioners for approval at Elite Medical & Aesthetics.

Ultimately it is a personal choice and we typically leave this up to the woman to decide after she is given all of the pros and cons during informed consent. She will also be required to sign a waiver acknowledging that there are no double-blind placebo controlled studies and that she participates at her/her babies own risk.

When women do choose to proceed, many women will “pump and dump” the day they get the procedure.

Please be aware that for medical reasons we may at times still decline to treat if mom is not in great health postpartum.

Conclusion:

Again, none of this is medical advice, but more an insight into how we view aesthetic treatments and their individual safety during pregnancy being a women-owned and operated business. Oftentimes, medical spas won’t even consult with pregnant women, so we wanted to ensure we provide information that can provide a brief insight into what our NP providers believe and always offer consultations to talk through anyone’s questions or concerns in regards to this topic (as always, case by case scenario).

We take your safety seriously, and will always pride ourselves for being open and honest with our lovely clients

Elite Medical & Aesthetics is a premier med spa located in Lone Tree, CO. Our all nursing staff of Nurse Practitioners take a holistic approach to natural results with safety as #1 priority.

Talk with one of our providers.

Reasons why people are triggered by you getting aesthetic treatments

August 23, 2023/in Botox, EMA Spotlight, Fillers, Laser and IPL /by Mary Beth Martin

Introduction:

FYI: This article may have some triggering content in it for those reading, but we feel it is important to share our take on this topic, as we are tired of seeing others being shamed for getting aesthetic treatments done. Especially when they are done in moderation with a natural result!

For starters, we want to emphasize the fact that only people who are insecure with themselves will judge others for doing treatments, this is because:

A really secure person does not actually care what other people do, so long as it is not hurting anyone else= if they’re triggered, it’s about THEM and not about YOU

While keeping that main point in mind, this article explains a few reasons why people tend to feel triggered by others getting aesthetic treatments done.

They believe they cannot have it for themselves

Oftentimes people who have to make rude comments or judge others for something, it is actually because they are upset that they cannot have it for themselves. AKA they are “hating” on you for getting a treatment done that they really want, too.

So rather than digging deep and admitting they want something they can’t have, they try to bring you down to their level and make it sound bad or like they don’t even want it.

There have been a few main reasons we see this issue arise from instances in our own practice

1. Financial Reasons

At Elite, we have heard many times that people cannot afford certain treatments. And while we understand aesthetics can be expensive, we also believe that people can prioritize and budget what they want in life.

Bottom line, if you truly cannot afford aesthetic treatments, that is absolutely understandable, but do not shame the people who can/choose to afford and budget for them!

2. Society Expectations

It is such a shame that SO many celebrities lie about getting plastic surgery and aesthetic treatments done. This sets an unrealistic expectation for women that they need to look/age a certain way with all natural methods (or with their olive oil skincare line, haha).

We can understand how this may turn people sour towards the aesthetic industry, but trust us they all have work done and will continue to try and hide it instead of empowering women with truth!

3. Pleasing someone else

It can be frustrating trying to live up to someone else’s expectations as to how you should look. BUT you will never please everyone in your life, so it is important to let go of that expectation.

Instead, do aesthetic treatments because it feels empowering to you, not because someone else does or doesn’t want you to do them!

Their partner or family will judge them for it

Like mentioned earlier, you will NEVER please everyone in your life. It is also funny, because oftentimes partners/family members that are judgmental, ALSO expect their partners to look a certain way…can we say hypocritical?!

Overall, people who get aesthetic treatments should do it because they feel empowered to and love the way it boosts their confidence. If you think about it, these treatments are just as comparable as people who alter the way they look through:

Makeup (regular and permanent)
Hairstyles (especially perms or relaxers that are not reversible)
Clothing or high heels
Fake nails
Padded bras

Again, someone who is really secure with themselves does not care what other people do, so long as it is not negatively impacting them. Even more so, really secure people tend to support and congratulate people who do what they love because it can be viewed as a form of self care and self love (PS: those are the kinds of people you want in your life anyways ).

Overall, we are not trying to convince people to get any treatments done, we are just emphasizing to STOP shaming the people who do!

We especially love this quote written by, Alex Pike, because it sums everything up in a few short words.

They think it is "unhealthy"

To put it simply, health is not that black and white. Many people claim that getting treatments such as Tox is just injecting a toxin into your body…and while this can be argued, consuming foods such as:

Processed foods
Inflammatory oils
Refined sugar
Alcohol
Artificial dyes and fragrances

Are just as toxic for your health if, not worse. What people do not understand is that Tox injections only occur every 3-4 months in a very localized area. People consume and apply toxins on a daily basis that accumulate overtime to a very large amount. Everything in life is about balance, and one extreme over the other is not healthy either way, we are the first to say “NO” to people who are over-filled, or want aesthetic treatments for the wrong reasons.

Hence our motto “Holistic approach, Natural results”

They are projecting their own experiences on you

If someone had a really bad experience with an aesthetic treatment or an injector, they might have the tendency to project that negativity onto you. Sure, that is only human to do (to a point) but it does not mean that all aesthetic treatments should be given that kind of reputation. That is why it is always important to do your research before going to an injector or a medical spa in general, to ensure your safety is number one, but that their morals align with yours and that their credentials/before and after work is legitimate!

⭐️ It is also important to keep in mind that you never know someone’s intentions behind getting an aesthetic treatment done or the reasoning behind their decisions. Aesthetic treatments and surgeries can oftentimes change people’s depression or help heal past trauma that they experienced in their lifetime.

Many therapists indicate that people who stop caring about their appearance are actually more likely to have signs of depression and lack of self confidence. Compared to the people who take the time to do self care acts (whatever form this may be) and do things that make them feel beautiful and confident.

Ali, NP's Personal Experience with Health & Aesthetics

Ali, NP takes her health and wellness very seriously as she has put in thousands of hours as a Nurse Practitioner and is training in the functional medicine field. For example:

-She eats an all organic diet full of vegetables, fruits, animal protein, and supplements based on her own body’s needs; drinks filtered water and has a reverse osmosis system installed in the office too! She limits caffeine to ~2-3 servings/week and rarely drinks alcohol.

– Not only does she factor in diet, she also uses non-toxic beauty products and household products.

– Alongside those important lifestyle choices she focuses on mental health by reading, meditating, and spending time doing things she loves like painting, playing sand volleyball and doing pilates.

-With all of that being said, she DOES get aesthetic treatments done that are appropriate for her and make her feel even more confident and beautiful with a holistic and natural approach.

Ali clearly takes care of her health and even jokes that, “the only toxin I put into my body is localized Botulinum Toxin”. However, others may put toxins in their bodies daily and then believe they are healthy by not getting tox injections. It is not that simple, health is not that black and white!

Running her own medical spa, Ali also prioritizes carrying less-toxic, cleaner products for her clients such as:

Xeomin: double filtered, purified neurotoxin that does not have any added/unnecessary proteins
RHA filler: the only HA filler on the market that closely mimics our body’s own HA with a cleaner formula
Dr. Alkaitis holistic skincare line that is organic, raw, and toxin free

Conclusion

Overall, we want to inform people that if someone has to make comments or shame you for getting aesthetic treatments, remember that it has nothing to do with you, and everything to do with them! Usually people are triggered by others getting treatments because of the four main reason explained above 👆

1. They believe they cannot have it for themselves

2. Their partner or family will judge them for it

3. They think it is “unhealthy”

4. They are projecting their own experiences onto you

At Elite, we want to use aesthetic treatments as a way to feel empowered as women (and men) and to do them because we feel even more confident and beautiful than we already are 😉

Elite Medical & Aesthetics is a premier med spa located in Lone Tree, CO. Our staff of Nurse Practitioners provide a holistic approach for natural results with safety as a #1 priority.

Book a Consult

Talk to one of our providers

Book Now

All About Butt Injections

July 27, 2023/in Fillers /by Mary Beth Martin

Introduction

Non-surgical butt lifts (aka butt injections) are becoming more popular in the aesthetic industry and at Elite Medical & Aesthetics. We are seeing many clients that are wanting changes to their behind such as:

More plump, more round, or a better fit for their frame
Have reduced cellulite, stretch marks, and sagging skin
Clothing to fit better and appear more feminine or sexy
To boost their overall self-esteem

While we empower women to do treatments that make them feel their best, it is also important to note that we see ALL body types as beautiful and that you do not have to do treatments to “fit a mold” or to look a certain way either. Do what makes you feel your best, we are here to help along the way .

What are non-surgical butt injections?

Non-surgical butt injections involve injectables that are used to add subtle volume to the back-side, build collagen, and help overall skin integrity/elasticity and smooth cellulite. There are many different types of injectables providers may use, but at Elite Medical and Aesthetics our NP injectors typically use the following:

Sculptra, which is a type of injectable that is made of Poly-L Lactic Acid (the same material as sutures) that works to stimulate the body’s natural collagen production after a series of treatments (ranging from 3-6 depending on the area). Sculptra provides natural results that last up to 2-3 years in most clients.
Radiesse, which is a dermal filler made of calcium-based microspheres helps to restore subtle volume immediately, while also stimulating collagen. Radiesse does provide results after one treatment (versus a series with Sculptra) and also stimulates collagen, even after the product is fully absorbed by the body. Results last 1-2 years after full correction.

We pride ourselves in carrying cleaner, less toxic product options for our clients to make decisions based on what is best for them! Learn more about Sculptra and Radiesse read the articles below

Is Radiesse or Sculptra better for a buttock lift?

To break it down simply:

Radiesse is a better injectable option for those who are wanting immediate results with subtle volume up front.
Sculptra is a better injectable option for those who are wanting a more gradual and subtle result.

Ultimately, both Sculptra and Radiesse can be used to achieve the same result over time. Radiesse can be used similarly to Sculptra if it’s diluted, also known as hyperdilute Radiesse.

How much Sculptra is needed for the butt?

8-10 vials/syringes are typically needed for an average buttock area. However, this is dependent on the client’s baseline and their overall aesthetic goals of the treatment.

Our Nurse Practitioner injectors always provide a consultation before injectable treatments, to ensure a customized quote is given based on each individual client (as everyone is different ).

How many Sculptra treatments are needed for butt injections?

A series of 3-6 treatments, spread 4 weeks apart, of Sculptra are usually needed for the buttock area. Keep in mind that the number of treatments is dependent on several factors such as:

Client baseline
Client’s aesthetic goals
Health/medical history
Budgeting factors

Always consult with a trusted and experienced injector before going forward with treatments, as it is important to understand how the treatment works, what to expect, how much it will cost, and get any questions answered.

How much do Sculptra butt injections cost?

Sculptra is priced based on the number of vials used in a treatment. One vial typically costs $800, and an average of 8-10 vials are needed for a single treatment. We always recommend a consult with a provider to get a customized quote as treatment prices can vary and are usually reduced with higher quantities.

At Elite we offer Cherry Payment Plans and Elite Wallet (in-house rewards) for our clients to budget for their aesthetic treatments.

Is Radiesse or Sculptra cheaper?

Radiesse and Sculptra are priced roughly the same, around $800 a syringe/vial. However, Sculptra tends to cost more over time, because more treatments (3-6) are needed to see results, whereas Radiesse provides immediate results with less treatments needed (1-3).

Which is better, Sculptra or BBL?

Knowing if Sculptra butt injections or a BBL is better, is dependent on the client’s baseline and what their aesthetic goals are for the buttock area. A break down of what these procedures do is provided below:

Sculptra Injections: Collagen stimulating injections that can add volume to the butt, help with skin elasticity/cellulite, and build collagen/elastin after a series of treatments. The results from this are a little more natural and subtle.
BBL: A Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) is where a plastic surgeon takes excess fat from the body and transfers it into the buttock area to build and sculpt the area to client’s desired results. This is a surgical correction to the body that requires anesthesia and recovery post-op.

Overall, Sculptra results will be more natural/subtle and the treatment is non-surgical, whereas BBL surgery results will be more pronounced.

⭐️ It is important to go to a provider who will give you realistic expectations and direct you to the treatment option that is best fitting to your needs and goals.

How long do butt injections last?

Butt injection longevity is based on the injectable product used during treatment. Collagen stimulating injectables like Sculptra usually last 2-3 years after a series of 3-6 treatments due to its ability to stimulate the body’s own natural collagen. Other injectable/filler products, like Radiesse, usually provide results for 1-2 years, again depending on the individual and product used.

Read more about the differences between Sculptra and HA fillers below.

What is the best filler for butt injections?

At Elite Medical and Aesthetics we prefer to use either Sculptra or Radiesse for butt injections, because they both provide great results, while also stimulating the body’s own natural collagen. Deciding which filler is best suited for you can be discussed between you and a provider.

How can I get rid of hip dips?

It is possible to lessen the prominence of hip dips with butt injections. It is simply just a difference in the technique and injection site of the area

Example: injecting into the hip dip region versus into the butt area

However, Ali, NP believes that hip dips are beautiful, and often a result of a defined muscle to provide the body with strength (especially for athletes and people who work out often or do pilates). We are not all meant to have the perfect pear shape curves that you see the Kardashian’s, and many other celebrities, have. This creates an insecurity and an unrealistic expectation for real women who do not have the resources to get cosmetic surgeries often. While it is important to get treatments done that make you feel good, it is also important to find the beauty in your body and nourish it through balanced diets and healthy exercise

Who is a good candidate for butt injections?

A good candidate for butt injections may include some of the following criteria:

You are a healthy individual with no underlying complications/contraindications for the injectables
Have realistic expectations on what butt injections can do for your individual concerns
You want to subtly change the shape/roundness of your butt
Buttocks are asymmetrical
Looking for the skin tissue to be more firm/tight

Overall, a good candidate is someone who is looking to enhance their behind region while staying committed to their treatment plan.

What is a non-surgical butt injection treatment like?

An inside to a non-surgical butt injection treatment can be described in the following steps below

First, your provider will walk you through what to expect, have you read/sign consent forms, take photos for charting, and run through basic information of the treatment.
Once all questions are answered, the provider will clean and prep the skin for injections.
After the skin is prepped and marked out, the injectables begin. The amount of product being injected, and where, will vary based on what you and the provider discussed for best treatment outcome.
Your provider will walk you through the areas they are injecting to ensure you are comfortable and aware, starting with one side and working their way over to the other. This usually takes about 20-30 minutes (give or take).
After the injections are completed, the provider will apply an antiseptic ointment (possibly small bandaids over injection sites), go over the after-care instructions, and answer any follow up questions you may have.
To end the treatment, your provider will recommend scheduling a follow up appointment to ensure desired results are achieved, and to schedule future appointments.

Note: it is best to wear loose fitting clothing like sport shorts, a dress, or skirt to the appointment, to keep your skin comfortable and avoid any harsh rubbing/abrasion to the area.

Ali, NP pictured with Dr. Sadaat during her Sculptra advanced injection course where she trained on butt injections.

Do non-surgical butt injections hurt?

Butt injections tend to be tolerable for most clients as there is also numbing (lidocaine) injected into the area along with the filler product. This helps to make the area fairly numb and comfortable for clients. However, is it best to ask your provider about numbing options (topical and local) that will keep you comfortable during treatment!

What is the downtime after getting butt injections?

The downtime associated with butt injections is fairly easy and may include the following:

24 hours of redness and small pinpoint bleeding at injection sites (most practices will apply small bandaids to the areas)
Not touching, picking, or rubbing the area during healing (minimum 24-48 hours)
Expect 10-14 days of swelling and bruising from the injections (expect 2 weeks to fully settle)
Tenderness in the area for a few days
Avoiding intense exercise and exposure to heat for 24-48 hours
Avoiding sauna, baths, hot tubs and pools for 48 hours
Wearing loose fitting clothing for a few days after (mainly for comfortability)

Always follow your provider’s post-treatment instructions and contact them ASAP if you are in any severe pain or notice abnormalities.

Keep in mind that non surgical butt injections require different downtime/recovery than surgical BBL’s.

Should I get Sculptra butt injections or a BBL?

This is up to you and the desired results you are looking to achieve. As mentioned earlier, butt injections tend to give a more subtle/natural results, whereas BBL’s (fat transfers or butt implants) are surgical and can add noticeable definition/volume.

If you are unsure what is best for you, consult with a trusted provider that will give you helpful information and guide you in the right treatment direction.

What are the risks/side effects of butt injections?

Common side effects accompanied by butt injections include:

Bleeding at initial injection site
Bruising
Swelling
Tenderness

These risks listed above usually subside within a few days after treatment. Bruising & swelling can last 10-14 days, but note this is normal and can take a full 2 weeks for treatment to fully settle.

Rare, but potential risks include:

Vascular occlusion
Infection
Allergic reaction to product used
Scarring

Note: If you are experiencing any of the rare side effects, contact your injector immediately! Ensure your provider has explained these risks before treatment and you feel that your safety is top priority during AND after the treatment. We also suggest to schedule a 2 week follow up after all facial filler treatments to ensure client satisfaction.

To Recap:

While we empower women to do treatments that make them feel their best, it is also important to note that we see ALL body types as beautiful and that you do not have to do treatments to "fit a mold" or to look a certain way either. Do what makes you feel your best, we are here to help along the way

Ali, NP and EMA Team

Elite Medical & Aesthetics is a premier med spa located in Lone Tree, CO. Our staff of Nurse Practitioners provide a holistic approach to natural results with safety as a #1 priority.

Ready to book?

Talk to one of our providers

Book Now

Jawline Filler 101

July 12, 2023/in Botox, Fillers, Kybella /by Mary Beth Martin

Introduction

Bringing harmony and balance to one’s facial features is always the goal with injections and this oftentimes includes jawline filler. This injectable treatment is very discreet, yet makes a naturally beautiful difference in the overall facial appearance.

Jawline filler is most commonly known to help with the following:

Contouring the jawline
Reducing the prominence of jowls
Balancing facial profiles
Smoothing unwanted lines and wrinkles

This article will help cover more about jawline filler basics, commonly asked questions, and before and after images of our real clients. (p.s. we often incorporate jawline filler in our customized full face filler treatments )

What is jawline filler?

Jawline filler is a non-surgical injectable procedure, that defines the jawline and reduces lines, wrinkles, and folds in the area.

This is a great treatment for those who have lost jawline structure (due to normal aging), want to help reduce the appearance of jowls, or simply want to contour to the jaw for a balanced profile!

How long does jawline filler last?

Jawline filler typically lasts 10-12 months depending on the type of injectable product used and how quickly the individual metabolizes the product. Some injectable products like Radiesse and Sculptra actually help to build collagen in the area of injections, which may extend the longevity of the treatment.

Check out the difference between Sculptra and HA fillers in the article below.

How do I know if I need jawline filler?

If you are looking to balance your facial profile, are lacking jawline contour, or have a loss of volume due to the normal aging process, then you might be a good candidate for this treatment!

However, at Elite, we encourage an initial consultation with one of our Nurse Practitioner injectors. Consultations ensure the client is a good fit for the treatment, has all questions answered, and understands expectations of what the treatment does!

Here, Ali NP and owner of Elite Medical & Aesthetics, is artistically injecting our client with Radiesse in the jawline area, for full face rejuvenation.

How do I prepare for jawline filler?

To best prepare for jawline filler, talk with your provider about the full list of pre-treatment instructions specific to you.

But here is a common list of “do’s and dont’s” to help you better prepare:

Do:

Do stop all blood thinning medications at least 48 hours before appointment (if prescribed for medical conditions talk with your provider)
Do stop drinking alcoholic beverages 48 hours before appointment
Do Eat pineapple 1 week leading up to the appointment or take bromelain tablets 24 hours before, to reduce risks of swelling
Do consider taking arnica tablets to reduce bruising
Do come with a clean, make-up free face to your appointment
Do ask any medical questions you have, before your appointment

Don’ts

Don’t work out 24-48 hours after injections
Don’t touch or massage the injection site with dirty hands
Don’t drink alcoholic beverages for 24-48 hours after treatment
Don’t participate in any heat inducing activities 24-48 hours after treatment

Is jawline filler painful?

Jawline filler is very tolerable for most clients and the majority of the injecting products contain lidocaine in them to help with comfortability. However, it is not uncommon for the area to feel sore or “heavy feeling” after the injections and this will subside after a few days. Always contact your provider if you are experiencing any severe pain or complications.

What are the risks of jawline filler?

Common risks accompanied by jawline filler include:

Bleeding at initial injection site
Bruising
Swelling
Tenderness

These risks listed above usually subside within a few days after treatment. Bruising & swelling can last 10-14 days, but note this is normal and can take a full 2 weeks to settle.

Rare, but potential risks include:

Vascular occlusion
Infection
Allergic reaction to product used
Scarring

If you are experiencing any of the rare side effects, contact your injector immediately! Ensure your provider has explained these risks before treatment and you feel that your safety is top priority during AND after the treatment. We also suggest to schedule a 2 week follow up after all facial filler treatments to ensure client satisfaction. Any needed touch ups can be done at this time too!

Is botox or filler better for the jawline?

Botox and filler are both injectable treatments that can help with jaw concerns, however knowing which treatment is best for you, and your aesthetic goals, is best decided between you and the injector! The difference between the two are explained a little more below

Jawline botox (or “Tox” aka Botox, Xeomin, Dysport, Jeuveau) injections are ONLY used to treat the masseter muscles that can cause the face to have a more “boxy” or masculine appearance. Botox works to relax the jawline muscles and can create an overall slimmer or softer jawline while also helping with things like TMJ and clenching.

Note: We err on the side of caution with injecting Tox for TMJ or clenching reasons, because this is usually a result of an underlying concern such as stress, anxiety etc.

Watch this video to learn more about why you shouldn’t get botox for clenching without addressing the underlying cause.

Jawline filler is an injectable that is used to sculpt and build the jawline, while blending into the chin region. Overall, jawline filler is going to give back shape, structure, and contour to the jawline.

Botox for jawline:

Filler for jawline:

How many syringes are needed for jawline filler?

It is not uncommon to use one syringe of filler per side, equaling 2 syringes in total, for the whole treatment. Again, since everyone is different, this is a great question to address with your provider in the initial consultation to get a better understanding and for budgeting purposes.

At Elite Medical & Aesthetics, our Nurse Practitioner providers give our clients a very thorough consultation to ensure the client knows all about the treatment, what to expect, estimated pricing, and an overall “game plan”.

What is the downtime of jawline filler?

Jawline filler downtime may include:

Bruising
Swelling
Tenderness
Redness/pin-point bleeding at injection site

Bruising and swelling may last 10-14 days, as it takes a full 2 weeks for most filler to fully settle. After a few days, tenderness and redness will subside! We recommend to follow the post-care instructions provided to you, and always contact your provider if you have any questions or concerns.

Watch the video below of Elite’s Post-Treatment Care Packages that all clients receive after a treatment at our office 😊

What is the best filler to use for the jawline?

The best filler to use for the jawline is determined by several factors:

The clients’s anatomy
Aesthetic concerns & goals
Longevity of treatment
Healthy history

We most commonly use a firm hyaluronic acid (HA) filler like RHA 4 or a collagen stimulating injectable like Radiesse because they provide more structure for the area. Our NP injectors carry many different product options for our clients and tend to use cleaner, less toxic products to keep client safety as our number one priority.

Does jawline filler give you a masculine appearance?

Jawline filler has the ability to give a more masculine look, but this is only if someone is wanting to achieve that look, particularly men (as below). Artistic injectors have the eye and ability to use aesthetic treatments, like filler, to bring harmony and balance to one’s face for multiple different outcomes. This is preferred to injectors that just inject everyone the same.

For Example

If a male is looking to enhance their jawline for a more masculine appearance, then the injector will use a specific technique to achieve this look (if its appropriate/achievable for the client)
If a female is looking for an overall facial rejuvenation, then using jawline filler to add volume and structure back to the jawline, while still keeping a heart shaped feminine look, is a different injecting technique.

Does jawline filler make you look slimmer?

Jawline filler does have the potential to make someone look slimmer because of the contouring of the filler and how it can reduce prominence of jowls or even double chin. Oftentimes, jawline filler is also used in conjunction with other treatments to help slim the lower face.

Those other treatments may include:

Kybella: an injection used to dissolve unwanted fat pads such as a “double chin”
Chin filler: an injectable treatment used to bring structure back to the chin and even facial profile
Skin/neck tightening treatments: a mix of laser/microneedling treatments, and potentially injectable treatments like Sculptra, to tighten the neck and reduce loose skin

Explore more on these individual treatments below

How much does jawline filler cost?

Jawline filler is priced on how many syringes are used during the treatment. On average a syringe of filler costs around $700-$800. Most commonly, two syringes are used on each side of the jawline.

⭐️ We offer Cherry Payment Plans, and also have an in-house rewards system, Elite Wallet, that helps our clients with budgeting.

Does jawline filler help with jowls?

Jawline filler alone does not necessarily target jowls. However, when the jawline region is more defined it can help to reduce the appearance of jowls, making them look less dominant. If jowling is a main concern, there may be different treatments better suited for the individual, or even a referral for surgical correction.

Also, keep in mind that if a different treatment is better suited for your concerns, to go to a medical spa that puts “people over profits” and is honest with what treatment will give you the best outcome.

What is the difference between jawline filler and Kybella?

The difference between jawline filler and Kybella is that they are used to target different aesthetic concerns. More explained below 👇

Kybella/DCPC Injections: An injection that dissolves unwanted fat commonly used in the double chin area.

Jawline Filler: Dermal filler that is used to replace loss of volume and build structure along the jawline region

These treatments can be used together to achieve client goals, as well.

Jawline filler before and after

Below are all before and after images of Elite Medical & Aesthetics real clients. Most images are of full face filler that include jawline filler.

Elite Medical & Aesthetics is a premier med spa located in Lone Tree, CO. Our all nursing staff of Nurse Practitioners take a holistic approach to natural results with safety as #1 priority.

Talk with one of our providers.

What’s the Difference Between Sculptra & Fillers?

April 17, 2023/in Fillers /by Mary Beth Martin

Introduction

By now you have probably heard about Sculptra, an injectable treatment that stimulates natural collagen production. While this product has become a popular “new” treatment on social media, it’s actually been around since 1999!

There are many questions we get at Elite Medical and Aesthetics about the differences between Sculptra and fillers, and this blog will help break down those differences and cover additional common questions.

How is Sculptra different than fillers?

The main difference between Sculptra and hyaluronic acid (HA) based fillers is that Sculptra stimulates the production of natural collagen. Sculptra is an FDA approved injectable that may help to replace lost collagen for up to 2-4 years, making it a more natural treatment that dermal fillers.

A more definitive breakdown of the two injectables is explained below

Traditional HA fillers are made of a smooth, gel-like substance called hyaluronic acid. Once this is injected into the desired area, there is an instant change in volume restoration usually after one treatment (this can vary per person). HA fillers typically last around 10-12 months depending on the product and person and CAN be dissolved.
Sculptra, on the other hand, is made of Poly-L Lactic Acid (PLLA) that works to stimulate the body’s own natural collagen. Results are shown over a period of time and a series of treatments, rather than instantly. Results typically last 2-4 years and it CANNOT be dissolved.

Does Sculptra last longer than fillers?

Yes, Sculptra does last longer than fillers! As mentioned, Sculptra is made of PLLA, which is the same material sutures are made from for surgical stitching. PLLA stimulates collagen and elastin production. Overall, most people enjoy results around 2 years, and some up to 4 years. Whereas HA fillers, are metabolized over a 10-12 month time frame, depending on the filler product used. However, keep in mind that Sculptra injections do require a series of treatments, and HA filler results are typically immediate after one full treatment (as followed by your provider’s treatment plan).

Is Sculptra more expensive than fillers?

Per vial, Sculptra is priced similar to a syringe of filler (around $800 for a single vial). Keep in mind though, it does take an average of 3 treatments, and the number of vials needed is determined in a consultation prior to the treatment.

Overall, this does make Sculptra more expensive than HA fillers, but the results can last longer than HA fillers.

Note: injectable treatments like filler and Sculptra are an investment, especially when seeing a licensed and trained provider. “You get what you pay for” when it comes to treatments like these. Rest assured at Elite, we offer Cherry Payment Plans and Elite Wallet to help with budgeting. Learn more below

Is Sculptra safer than fillers?

There is not enough published evidence to prove that Sculptra is any safer than HA fillers. However, there is a theoretical decreased risk of vascular occlusion since Sculptra is more liquid than fillers. Dr. David Saadat said at a 2022 training in Valencia, CA that you can “put Sculptra anywhere” and “cannot occlude a vessel with it because it is a liquid” (when it is mixed correctly). A review of the literature does show cases of vascular occlusion, but we cannot know how it was mixed. Infection, pain, swelling and bruising are always a risk any time you puncture the skin.

So, basically all injectable treatments come with risks and potential side effects. It is important to go to a medically trained and licensed injector to ensure that your safety is top priority, regardless of the treatment/product is being administered.

Does Sculptra treat different areas that filler can't?

Sculptra treats many of the facial areas that filler can with the exception of the lips and close to the eyes.

There are a few areas on the body that Sculptra can treat as well, including:

Buttocks
Hips
Thighs
Upper arms

Is Sculptra permanent?

No, results from Sculptra are not permanent. While this injectable treatment has long-lasting results up to 2-4 years, the PLLA is still metabolized by the body over time. However, the production of collagen is natural and lasting, but keep in mind as we age we continue to lose collagen and elastin in our skin (hence, why this is a great anti-aging treatment).

At EMA, we recommend talking to a provider about your aesthetic goals and concerns to ensure you are on a customized treatment plan best for you!

Which is better, Sculptra or Radiesse?

Which injectable is “better” for YOU is a question that should be discussed with your provider during a consultation, because some people are better candidates for different injectables. However, the main differences between Radiesse and Sculptra are:

Radiesse:

Can provide instant volume in a single treatment when used at full strength
Can also be used diluted and used as a collagen stimulator similar to Sculptra
Produces collagen by acting like a bridge of minerals (calcium hydroxylapetite based)
Produces more natural appearing results

Sculptra:

Simply a stimulator for collagen production (takes up to 3 sessions for visible results)
Does not provide instant volume, but build’s the body’s own collagen
Produces collagen through an inflammatory process
Stimulates collagen using PLLA (the same material sutures are made of)
Produces natural appearing results

Sculptra and Radiesse are both considered advanced injectables and require specialized training to prevent side effects such as lumps, bumps, and inflammatory nodules.

Again, it is best to consult with a provider to see which kind of injectable treatment is best suited for your anatomy, goals, budget, and time frame. Our providers take the time to assess and get to know clients on a more personal level, in order to provide the best treatment plan and provide explanations.

Is Sculptra the best filler option?

Sculptra is a great injectable option for many people, however knowing if it is the best option for you is determined with your provider! It is important to learn about the various treatment options suitable for your concerns and goals, risk factors, what to expect, and ask as many questions possible!

We pride ourselves on our thorough consultations where we put “people over profits” and genuinely help you decide what treatment is best for you, even if it’s no treatment at all!

Book a consult below to talk with one of our providers:

Elite Medical & Aesthetics is a premier med spa located in Lone Tree, CO that takes a holistic approach to natural results. We pride ourselves in having an all nursing staff of NP’s that put safety as #1 priority.

Book a Consult

Talk with one of our providers about Sculptra

Click Here

Our Favorite “Glow up” Treatments

January 18, 2023/in Botox, Facials and Peels, Fillers, Kybella, Laser and IPL /by Mary Beth Martin

Introduction

The New Year is symbolic of new beginnings, and there’s often a theme within peoples’ New Years resolutions: Bettering Themselves. If bettering yourself includes skincare and aesthetics, you came to the right place!

Better skincare can also happen all year round. So, no matter when YOU decide is best for a “glow-up”, we are honored to be a part of the process!

In this article, we break down what a glow up even is as well as our favorite aesthetic treatments to get your glow on.

What is a "glow up"?

A “glow-up” is simply the process of making a major positive transformation in your life, whether that be emotionally, physically, or spiritually. And it is not just for teens and 20 somethings on social media by the way. You can have a glow-up at ANY age. What do you want to change in your life to look and feel better, for YOU?

So long as it’s for the right motivations (again, for you), aesthetics and skincare treatments can be a very helpful part of anyone’s glow-up journey. As the saying goes “when you look good, you feel good”. Apparently you can also make more money when you spend more time on your appearance, around 20% more according to this study.

We know that looks are not always the most important, but feeling your best is! That’s why we love what we do! Our goal is always for people to feel better when they leave our office than when they came in, even if they choose to have NO treatments.

What aesthetic treatments give you a glow up?

Depending on your skin goals, the aesthetics industry has something for everyone. From non-invasive facials, peels and skincare to more aggressive lasers, injectables, and skin tightening treatments.

For fast results check out services such as: dermal filler, botulinum toxin injections, and IPL.

If you’re willing to be a bit more patient, check out: Collagen stimulating injections, lasers, microneedling, and Kybella

Overall, we offer many services here at Elite but in this article we want to share some of our favorites from personal experience. Keep reading to see what we have had done!

MB's favorite aesthetic treatment for an ultimate "glow up"

Mini Lip Plump

Elite’s signature Mini Lip Plump is the perfect addition for adding volume and symmetry to the lips! This treatment provides a total confidence boost for anyone who has thinner lips, or just wants a better pout!

The Mini Lip Plump is Mary Beth’s favorite aesthetic treatment for a glow up, because a lot of people do not need a full syringe of filler in their lips to feel confident (a little plump, goes a long way 😉 ). This treatment also balances facial profiles and accentuates lip definition, all while looking and feeling incredibly natural when done by the right injector

Below you can see MB’s before and after images of one mini lip plump by Ali, NP.

Does lip filler give you a glow up?

When done by the right injector, lip filler can definitely be a glow up treatment. The smile and lips are often a focal point of one’s face, and lip filler can accentuate the shape, volume, and fullness of the lips all while still looking natural.

Lip filler can especially be a glow up for those with thinner lips or asymmetrical lips. At Elite, we pride ourselves on having injectors with artistic backgrounds that customize filler to each unique face, rather than just injecting filler the same into everyone.

Talk with one of our providers about your lip goals below 👇

Does lip filler make you prettier?

Lip filler making someone prettier is a relative question. Sure, some people are better candidates for lip filler than others, but this is where aesthetic treatments can fuel someone’s confidence without the judgement of others. If it makes YOU feel prettier, then YOU will attract more confident, beautiful, and powerful energy, thus making you even more beautiful!

Hannah's favorite aesthetic treatment for an ultimate "glow up"

Kybella/Deoxycholic Acid

Kybella is hands-down 🙌 one of the most transformative treatments for anyone who is experiencing an unwanted “double chin” (submandibular fat) taking away chin/jawline definition.

Oftentimes a “double chin” concern can make someone look and feel heavier than they actually are, no matter their weight or health status. Hannah has personally experienced a major difference in her confidence after just one Kybella/DA treatment. Kybella/DA by permanently decreasing the fat pad it creates contour to the chin and jawline area. Overall, Kybella/DA makes the facial profile even more beautiful and contoured than before…hello glow-up!

Below you can see Hannah’s results from one Kybella/DA treatment.

Please note it usually takes 3-6 treatments for most people and not everyone is a candidate.

Does Kybella give you a glow up?

Ultimately, YES! Kybella/DA is a great treatments for a double chin for the right candidate, because it provides permanent slimming effects without having to undergo surgery or invasive procedures. Clients who might be good candidates for Kybella/DA are typically at a healthy body weight and have a “double chin” no matter what their weight is.

Does Kybella make you look younger?

Yes, Kybella/DA has the effect of making someone look younger because it permanently dissolves unwanted fat, resulting in a more contoured jawline and chin.

However, someone with already sagging neck skin may also need a surgical referral for a neck lift as removing the fat can increase loose skin in certain individuals.

Does Kybella slim the face?

Yes, Kybella/DA can have a slimming effect for the entire face. Especially if it is injected off-label for jowls or mild buccal fat pad slimming.

Talk with one of our providers about your Kybella questions

Ali's favorite aesthetic treatment for an ultimate "glow up"

IPL 3-in-1

Ali, NP’s favorite aesthetic treatment for an ultimate glow up (and one of her favorite treatments to recommend to clients) is an IPL 3-in-1 treatment.

Why? 👇

Evens out skin complexion from freckles, sun/age spots, redness, or acne
Reverses DNA damage from the sun, resulting in healthier skin
There’s no downtime or broken skin
Has a beneficial “tightening” effect to the skin’s tissue
Almost everyone is a candidate

An IPL (Intense Pulse Light) 3-in-1 treatment uses light energy that is converted to heat energy into targeted cells, which then causes destruction of the damaged cells to regenerate healthy cells, all with no downtime! Below are pictures of Ali’s skin right after an IPL treatment, and 7 days after. To learn more about what to expect after an IPL treatment, click the button below.

We call it a 3-in-1 IPL treatment because at Elite we do a full pass for age spots/freckles then targeted passes for small vessels and another for stubborn spots. Clients have described getting the results from 1 treatment that they got in 3 at other clinics.

Does IPL make your skin glow?

Yes, IPL 3-in-1 treatment results in healthy, glowing skin. IPL is one of Elite’s most loved aesthetic treatments, because it is effective in evening out the skin’s complexion, and requires no downtime! It is common for our providers to use this treatment to treat freckles, sun/age spots, redness, and acne, with a goal that our clients can feel confident in their skin (bye-bye makeup!). IPL addresses many concerns, and after a few short days post-treatment, glowing skin is revealed.

How long do IPL results last?

Essentially forever…if we never went outside again. However, as we continue to get sun exposure and age, sun/age spots and freckles will appear. It is best to do 3-6 IPL treatments, 4 weeks apart, and then complete maintenance sessions throughout the year, especially after summertime. This will ensure you are maintaining your results, and of course, keeping your skin healthy and glowing.

Does IPL make your skin look younger?

IPL is a great treatment option for those who want to address several signs of aging. Wether the concern is uneven skin tone, redness, dull skin, or hyperpigmentation; IPL works wonders at achieving even, more youthful appearing skin.

Talk with one of our providers about your skin concerns and goals to get on a customized treatment plan!

Before and after images of Elite’s clients after just 1 IPL treatment to target hyperpigmentation and sun/age spots 👆

Our all-time favorite aesthetic treatment for an ultimate "glow up"

Tox Injections

Tox injections (Botox, Xeomin, Dysport) provide clients with a glow up by smoothing lines and wrinkles that start to form as we age. Common areas that cause static (at rest) and dynamic (in-motion) wrinkles are the 11’s, forehead, and crows feet, with a few other off label areas as well.

All three of us personally love Tox for many reasons 👇

Reduces fine lines and wrinkles and smooths the skin
With consistent injections, can help smooth static lines that are visible at rest
A quick, little-to-no-pain treatment that provides results within 2 weeks
Little downtime, usually just a day of restrictions
Perfect as a preventative treatment

Tox injections not only help to smooth lines and wrinkles, but they can also give a more youthful appearance. Many of our clients at Elite report higher self-esteem after they receive their Tox, making it an ultimate glow up aesthetic treatment.

Does botox give you a glow?

Yes, Botox or (Botox, Xeomin, Dysport) gives you a glow by smoothing lines and wrinkles and making the skin appear more glowy. Tox can be applied topically to the skin through a micro-needling device, also known as our Elite Diamond Facial. This improves the texture of the skin, making it much more smooth and tight, also providing a glowing complexion.

Ps: we love Xeomin because it is a cleaner drug with fewer additives and provides lasting results! At Elite we specialize in a holistic approach to aesthetics, offering products that are more natural and just as effective 😘

Does botox make you prettier?

Potentially yes, and here’s why 👇

Tox injections help to smooth wrinkles and lines that can cause frowning or upset appearing faces, even at rest.

For example: someone constantly looks upset because the 11’s (glabella lines) are pronounced, even when they are happy or showing no emotion at all. The Tox injections smooth those lines and wrinkles, assisting in a happier appearance at rest and in motion.

But rest assured, when injected by the right provider, you will not be frozen or expressionless. Results provided will be natural and customized to your goals. Check out some before and after images of 11’s Tox below 👇

Conclusion

Aesthetic treatments can be a great stepping stone for a glow up this year! There are a wide range of services that we offer to fit individual concerns and goals, but we hope this article named a few that may be of interest to you.

Wether you are looking for subtle changes in a skincare routine or a total transformation, our providers at Elite take a holistic and artistic approach to treatments that give our clients natural, beautifully enhanced results.

If you are located in the Lone Tree, CO area, talk with one of our providers about your aesthetic goals. Elite is a premier med spa with an all RN and NP nursing staff. We prioritize safety and provide holistic, natural results.

Introduction:

Table of Contents

What is regenerative aesthetics?

What are regenerative skin treatments?

Is regenerative aesthetics anti-aging?

What are examples of regenerative aesthetic treatments?

Is EZ Gel a regenerative treatment?

Are PRP/PRF Injections Regenerative?

Are Bio-stimulating Injections Regenerative?

Is Microneedling a regenerative skin treatment?

RF Microneedling is a Regenerative Treatment, too:

Are non-ablative lasers regenerative treatments?

Are chemical peels regenerative treatments?

Are wellness Injections/IV Therapy regenerative therapies?

How is functional medicine regenerative medicine?

Are weight loss peptides regenerative?

Conclusion:

Book a consult

Introduction:

Table of Contents

What is EZ Gel?

What is EZ Gel used for?

Is EZ Gel better than fillers?

What is the new treatment instead of fillers?

What are the side effects of EZ Gel?

Who is a good candidate for EZ Gel?

How many EZ Gel treatments do you need?

How long does EZ Gel last?

What is the difference between EZ Gel and Sculptra?

How to fill under eyes without fillers?

What is the downtime like after EZ Gel?

Does EZ Gel Migrate?

What is the difference between PRF and EZ Gel?

How much does EZ Gel cost?

Does EZ Gel really work?

EZ Gel before and afters

Conclusion:

Book Now

Introduction

Table of Contents

1. Prices are cheap:

2. Places that over-fill or never say "no":

3. Injector looks over-done:

4. Appointment times are short:

5. The injector has no medical credentials:

6. Constantly pushing procedures or acting "salesy":

7. Inability to answer basic medical questions or explain how they respond to emergencies:

8. Lack of communication & follow-up:

9. They only offer products that they profit the most on, as opposed to the best product fit for the patient:

10.injectors don't follow basic sanitary protocols:

Conclusion:

Book a Consult

Introduction:

Table of Contents

What is the most natural filler?

Does Radiesse look natural?

Is RHA a natural filler?

Which fillers look most natural?

Are there non-toxic fillers?

What is the safest filler?

Does Sculptra look more natural than fillers?

What is the cleanest form of Botox?

Is there a natural facial cream that works like botox?

Is it possible to look natural with Botox?

Natural Botox results:

Is microneedling a natural skin treatment?

Does IPL provide natural-looking results?

Can IPL treatments make you look more youthful?

Our Team's Natural Aesthetic Results:

Bottom line: Natural results come from your injector/provider

Book a Consult

Introduction

Disclaimer!!

Table of Contents

Is botox pregnancy safe?

Is botox safe while breast feeding?

Is lip filler pregnancy safe?

Is lip filler safe while breast feeding?

Is microneedling pregnancy safe?

Is microneedling safe while breast feeding?