Choosing an injector for your cosmetic treatments is a significant decision, and selecting a practitioner with the skills and expertise needed to achieve your desired results is essential. Injections should be given by a professional. Dr. Paul Vanek is a double board-certified plastic surgeon who has extensive experience in both surgical and non-surgical aesthetic treatments. In this article, we’ll discuss four reasons Dr. Vanek is an excellent choice as your injector.

1. Medical Expertise: Dr. Vanek’s background as a board-certified plastic surgeon means he has extensive facial anatomy training and expertise, including the underlying structures that support the skin. This knowledge is crucial when administering injectables, enabling him to assess the patient’s face and choose the most appropriate injection sites. Additionally, a thorough understanding of facial anatomy can help Dr. Vanek to minimize the risk of complications, such as bruising or swelling, and ensure optimal results.
2. Precision and Attention to Detail: Dr. Vanek is trained as a plastic surgeon to be highly precise and detail-oriented. This training translates well to injectable treatments, where precision is critical to achieving natural-looking results. Dr. Vanek’s skill with a needle means he can deliver the injectable in just the right spot to achieve the desired effect without overdoing it. This precision also ensures that the patient’s face maintains a natural appearance rather than looking overfilled or “fake.”
3. Customized Treatment Plans: Dr. Vanek recognizes that every patient is unique and tailors his approach to injectable treatments accordingly. During the initial consultation, he takes the time to listen to the patient’s concerns and goals and to assess their facial anatomy. Based on this information, he develops a customized treatment plan considering the patient’s age, skin type, and aesthetic preferences. This personalized approach helps to ensure that the patient is happy with the results of their injectable treatment.
4. Comprehensive Care: As a plastic surgeon, Dr. Vanek can provide a comprehensive approach to aesthetics. In addition to injectable treatments, he offers a range of surgical procedures, such as facelifts and eyelid surgery. This allows him to take a more holistic approach to the patient’s aesthetic needs and to develop a treatment plan that best meets their goals, especially regarding injections. Additionally, Dr. Vanek can provide non-surgical options, such as laser treatments or chemical peels, to enhance injectable treatments’ results or address other skin concerns. This comprehensive care ensures that patients receive the best possible results from their treatments, regardless of their aesthetic concerns.

Choosing the right injector is critical to achieving your desired results, and Dr. Paul Vanek has the expertise, precision, and personalized approach needed to help you reach your aesthetic goals. His extensive training and experience as a plastic surgeon enable him to provide a comprehensive approach to aesthetics, combining surgical and non-surgical treatments to deliver the best possible results.

Whether you’re interested in injectable treatments, surgery, or other aesthetic procedures, Dr. Vanek can help you achieve a natural and youthful appearance.

Please contact his practice today to schedule a consultation and start your journey toward a more beautiful you.

Key Takeaways:

1. Melasma is a common skin condition characterized by brown or grayish facial patches.
2. The MOXI laser is a non-ablative fractional laser that has shown promising results in treating melasma by reducing hyperpigmentation and promoting collagen production.
3. Studies have shown that the MOXI laser effectively reduces melasma severity scores and pigmentation.
4. The MOXI laser is safe for all skin types, including darker skin tones more prone to developing melasma.
5. Dr. Paul Vanek is a board-certified plastic surgeon and aesthetic physician who offers a variety of treatments for melasma, including the MOXI laser, and can work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses your unique concerns.

Melasma is a common skin condition characterized by the development of brown or grayish patches on the face, particularly on the cheeks, nose, forehead, chin, and upper lip. It is a type of hyperpigmentation that occurs when the melanocytes, which produce the skin pigment melanin, become overactive and have too much melanin in certain areas. While melasma is not harmful, it can be distressing for those with it, affecting their self-esteem and quality of life.

Different treatments for melasma are available, including topical medications, chemical peels, and laser therapy. One such laser therapy that has shown promising results in treating melasma is the MOXI laser.

The MOXI laser is a non-ablative fractional laser that creates microthermal zones in the skin, stimulating the body’s natural healing response and promoting collagen production. This process helps to reduce hyperpigmentation and improve the overall texture and tone of the skin.

The MOXI Laser: How It Works and Its Effectiveness in Treating Melasma

In a study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, researchers evaluated the efficacy and safety of the MOXI laser in treating melasma. The study involved 23 patients with melasma who underwent four MOXI laser treatments at four-week intervals. The results showed a significant improvement in melasma severity scores, with an average reduction of 54.5% at the end of the study. Read more studies here.

Another study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology compared the effectiveness of the MOXI laser to that of a Q-switched alexandrite laser in the treatment of melasma. The study involved 30 patients with melasma who were randomly assigned to receive either MOXI or alexandrite laser treatments. The results showed that both lasers effectively reduced melasma pigmentation, but the MOXI laser was associated with fewer adverse effects and a shorter recovery time.

One of the advantages of the MOXI laser is that it can be used on all skin types, including darker skin tones that are more prone to developing melasma. The procedure is quick and relatively painless, with most patients experiencing only mild discomfort during treatment.

However, it is essential to note that while the MOXI laser has shown promising results in treating melasma, it is not a cure for the condition. Melasma is a chronic condition that requires ongoing management, and patients may need to undergo maintenance treatments to maintain the results achieved with the MOXI laser.

Choosing the Right Treatment Plan

In conclusion, the MOXI laser is a safe and effective treatment option for melasma. It works by creating zones in the skin and stimulating production. While the procedure is quick and relatively painless, it is essential to note that maintenance treatments may be necessary to maintain the results achieved with the MOXI laser. As always, it is essential to consult with a doctor to determine the best treatment plan for your individual needs.

The MOXI laser may suit you if you are struggling with melasma and looking for a safe and effective treatment option. However, it is essential to consult with an aesthetic physician experienced in melasma to determine the best treatment plan for your needs.

Dr. Paul Vanek is a double board-certified plastic surgeon with clinical experience who has the knowledge and judgement to help you decide whether MOXI laser is right for you.

To learn more about the MOXI laser and how it can help improve the appearance of your skin, we would like you to schedule a consultation with Dr. Vanek. During your consultation, your skin will be analyzed by Visia spectral analysis as a pre-treatment assessment which is used later help assess your post treatment outcome. So why wait? Take the first step towards achieving healthier, more radiant skin today by scheduling your consultation with Dr. Vanek.

Are you losing sleep over your breasts’ size, shape, elasticity, or symmetry? How much time and money have you spent on pills, creams, and supplements that gave you no results?

Are you uncertain about breast enhancement surgery due to the cost, potential complications, or chance of resorption?

If you answered yes to any of these questions, EVE RHEA and fat transfer surgery may be the right choice for you. EVE RHEA is a non-surgical, minimally invasive procedure that uses autologous fat cells to naturally enhance the size, shape, and symmetry of the breasts.

The procedure is safe, affordable, and has no downtime, making it a great option for those who don’t want to undergo a traditional breast augmentation procedure. Fat transfer surgery is also a great alternative to traditional breast augmentation.

Fat transfer surgery uses the body’s own fat to provide a natural, subtle enhancement that can last for years, and it also offers the added benefit of body contouring.

Both procedures offer natural-looking results with minimal risk and long-lasting results.

EVE RHEA is a revolutionary breast enhancement device that can safely and effectively do three things:

1. Permanently increase breast fat and tissue

2. Increase elasticity to reduce sagging

3. Improve fat survival if paired with fat transfer

EVE RHEA is an evolved negative pressure device due to its unique pressure cycling pattern and dome design. Past breast enhancement devices had to be used for 8-10 hours for the same or even less desired results.

EVE RHEA only has to be used for one hour/day, and the results are more permanent compared to the earliest similar technology. The short wear time makes it safer and much less irritating to the skin, which was a drawback of earlier designs.

This device originated in the infamous beauty epicenter of South Korea, where it is GMP certified. It is extremely popular throughout Asia and is now conveniently available in the United States.

Change in Breast Size using 60 min/day for 8-12 weeks:

Breast size can increase by about one cup size (90 mL) in 12 weeks when used one hour per day.

Change in Breast Elasticity using 15 min/day for four weeks:

Breast sagging has been found to decrease by six years on average in eight weeks using just 15 minutes a day.

Individual results may vary based on individual biology and the amount of usage.

For a fraction of the cost of any breast surgery, you can join thousands of other women who boosted their cup size, corrected challenges with shape, and turned back the clock on their breasts. The size increases may be moderate but are completely real, healthy, and lasting.

With EVE RHEA in your self-care routine, you can rest easier at night, knowing you realize your full natural breast potential, rejuvenating your body, and saving your hard-earned money at the same time.

Precautions & Care

EVE RHEA is NOT for:

• People who are pregnant or breastfeeding
• People with breast implants
• People with active breast cancer
• Discontinue use and inspect the dome if you experience an unusual or painful increase in pressure. This could mean the dome needs to be replaced.
• Please be informed of the contents of the manual provided when using the product.

Recommendations for Use with Fat Transfer Surgery

EVE RHEA can improve the results of a fat transfer procedure to the breasts by creating a more favorable environment for cells to grow and survive. It achieves this primarily by creating space.

If you plan to use EVE RHEA with fat transfer surgery, it is recommended to inform your provider of your plans to use the device and have them contact us for questions and concerns.

It is important to take into consideration the limitations of EVE RHEA as well. For example, it is not intended for use in individuals who are pregnant, nursing, or may become pregnant in the near future.

Furthermore, the device should not be used on areas with active infection and it is not suitable for use in individuals with certain allergies or sensitivities.

Additionally, the device should not be used if the area of treatment is significantly tender or inflamed.

Device Recommendations:

1. Adaptation period: Before surgery, start on a comfortable low power (level 1-3) and use it for one hour/day for one week to adapt to the device.
2. Before surgery, use for 2-3 weeks for 1-3 hours/day at a high level (4-5).
3. Immediately following surgery, use for two weeks at levels 2-3 for one hour/day.

The journey begins in the consultation where Dr. Vanek listens to you in order to understand your specific desires and goals. Contact us at Mentor Plastic Surgery & Med Spa today.

VASER liposuction is a minimally invasive surgical procedure to remove excess body fat. While the procedure is often associated with women, it is also becoming increasingly popular among men. VASER liposuction has numerous benefits for men, including improving their physical appearance and self-confidence.

One of the primary benefits of VASER liposuction for men is that it can help improve their physical appearance. Men who struggle with stubborn pockets of fat in their chest, abdomen, love handles, or thighs can benefit from this procedure. VASER liposuction can remove fat from these areas, creating a more toned and defined physique. This can help men feel more confident and comfortable in their skin.

Another benefit of VASER liposuction for men is that it is a relatively quick and straightforward procedure. It typically only takes a few hours to complete, and patients can usually return home the same day. This means that men can have VASER liposuction and have long-lasting results.
It is an excellent investment for men who want to improve their appearance quickly and easily improve their appearance without having to take time off work or disrupt their daily routine.

VASER liposuction is also a safe and effective procedure for men. The procedure uses ultrasound technology, which selectively targets fat cells while leaving surrounding tissues unharmed. This means the procedure is less invasive than traditional liposuction and has a lower risk of complications. Additionally, the results of VASER liposuction are typically long-lasting, making it an excellent investment for men looking to improve their appearance.

In addition to improving physical appearance, VASER liposuction can also improve men’s overall health. Excess fat can strain the heart, liver, and other vital organs, increasing the risk of health problems such as heart disease, diabetes, and high blood pressure. By removing excess fat, VASER liposuction can help reduce the risk of these health problems and improve overall health.

Finally, VASER liposuction can help men feel more comfortable and confident in their own skin. Many men struggle with body image issues, affecting their self-confidence and mental well-being. By improving their physical appearance, VASER liposuction can help men feel more confident and self-assured, improving their overall quality of life.

In conclusion, VASER liposuction has numerous benefits for men, including improving their physical appearance, self-confidence, and overall health. The procedure is safe, effective, and minimally invasive, making it an excellent option for men looking to improve their appearance quickly and easily.

If you’re a man struggling with stubborn pockets of fat, VASER liposuction may be the solution you’ve been looking for. Please consult with Dr. Paul Vanek and see how we can best help you achieve your goals.

Click here to schedule a consultation with Dr. Paul Vanek.

To learn more about this procedure, read this article from Healthline.

 

When it comes to skincare, there are a lot of different products on the market. With so many options, knowing which ones to choose can take time and effort. However, if you’re looking for skincare that gets results, Dr. Vanek recommends medical-grade products that penetrate the skin’s deep layer.

Medical-grade skincare is a term used to describe products backed by scientific research. These products are subject to stricter standards than over-the-counter alternatives. They’ve been proven effective and have passed Food and Drug Administration (FDA) inspections through controlled and double-blind trials.

We are all in search of the miracle cream. You know the one….It promises glowing, dewy skin, fights wrinkles and fine lines, banishes blemishes, and won’t cause acne, tightens or plumps, and makes us look ten years younger.

The choices of lotions and potions available in the skincare market are plentiful. And prices range from very affordable brands at the drug store to outrageously decadent brands exclusively available at high-end department stores. Finding an effective product that delivers what it promises can be a challenge.

Have you considered medical-grade skincare available from your doctor’s office?

Are Medical-Grade Products Better Than Over-the-Counter (OTC) Products?

Is there a difference between the quality and effectiveness of products you can buy at the drugstore or department store and those available at your physician’s office? The answer is yes. And here is why.

What Is Medical-Grade Skincare?

Medical-grade skincare, or cosmeceutical skincare, targets specific medical skin conditions like wrinkles, treats acne, and redness. The concentration of active ingredients is higher in medical-grade products.

Companies that produce medical-grade skincare products will often use more stable ingredients that take longer to degrade. They often use more sophisticated absorption mechanisms so the active ingredients won’t clog pores and can penetrate more deeply into the skin.

In contrast, over-the-counter products often contain comparatively trace amounts of the star ingredient, such as retinol or hyaluronic acid, boosted with “fillers,” ineffective additives.

Over-the-counter products are regulated to prevent penetration below the top layer of the skin, and they are not approved to make claims of “treating” skin conditions like acne, acne scars or types of eczema.

The advantages of medical-grade skincare

1. Medical-grade skincare products are made with high-quality ingredients. They can help improve your skin’s appearance by treating conditions such as acne, rosacea, and eczema.
2. The active ingredients in medical-grade products are often more potent and contain more beneficial ingredients like peptides, antioxidants, and retinol.
3. They are proven effective, and there is no need to experiment with many different products to find the right one for you.
4. Dr. Vanek can recommend a product specifically for your skin condition, which reduces your need to experiment with over-the-counter products.

Benefits of Medical-Grade Skin Care Products

Clinical Testing

Medical-grade skin care products often undergo more intense research and clinical testing, leading to solid, scientifically backed evidence that they will deliver the promised results.

Advertising Traps

Often when we are looking for a new product promising excellent results that we want to try. Usually, the first one that comes to mind is the one that has spent the most on its advertising budget.

Unlike popular over-the-counter brands, medical-grade skincare brands spend most of their budgets on research, development, and clinical trials. These companies leverage our internet browsing and the types of shows we watch to target us through our social media feeds and viewing habits.

Who Knows Your Skin Better?

Dr. Vanek understands the chemistry and physiology of the skin and knows how to treat every skin type, whether you have dry skin, itchy skin, or oily skin. Dr. Vanek’s team understands your unique challenges and conditions and your goals for beautiful, healthy skin. Dr. Vanek will devise a completely personalized treatment plan based on your skin type to help you achieve a youthful, glowing complexion.

With the array of medical and cosmetic treatments and the professional knowledge of the appropriate use with supporting medical-grade skin care products, Dr. Vanek can recommend a course of complementary treatments customized just for you.

Shop Skin Care

Discover the benefits of medical-grade skin care products and develop a skincare routine to help you achieve healthy, beautiful skin. Contact the Mentor Plastic Surgery & Med Spa expert team for your complimentary consultation.

Our team is highly skilled in delivering natural, effective results with medical, cosmetic, and dermatologist-approved high-quality skin care products. Dr. Vanek and his team are committed to educating our patients and helping them discover our treatments’ cosmetic and therapeutic benefits. Call us at 1-440-205-5750 today.

FAQ

Q: Does Mentor Plastic Surgery & Med Spa sell medical-grade products?

A: We offer a variety of skincare products that are effective for all kinds of skin conditions. Including all types of acne, rosacea, people with eczema, wrinkles, fine lines, sun damage, and more.

Q: How will I know which products are suitable for me?

A: We recommend consulting with our skin care specialists to discuss your concerns and goals for healthy, beautiful skin. During your complimentary consultation, we can guide you to make the best and most informed decision to achieve fabulous skin.

Q: What is the one medical-grade skin care product that I should try?

A: Sunscreen! If you only want to try one product and are looking for results you won’t find in an over-the-counter product, we recommend sunscreen!

Breast augmentation, also known as breast implants, is a surgical procedure that enhances the size and shape of a woman’s breasts. While the procedure is popular, it can also be confusing and overwhelming. In this article, we will explain everything you need to know about breast augmentation in an informative and easy-to-understand way.

Why Women Choose Breast Augmentation

There are many reasons why a woman may choose to undergo breast augmentation. Some women may have naturally small breasts, while others may have lost breast volume after pregnancy or weight loss. Breast augmentation can help increase breast size and enhance the shape of the breasts, resulting in improved self-confidence and body image.

Breast enhancement, also known as breast augmentation, is a popular cosmetic procedure that involves the use of implants to increase the size and improve the shape of the breasts. Women choose breast enhancement for a variety of reasons, including a desire to improve their self-confidence and body image.

Many women who undergo breast enhancement may have naturally small breasts or may have lost breast volume due to pregnancy or weight loss. Breast enhancement can help to restore or enhance the size and shape of the breasts, resulting in a more youthful and attractive appearance. Additionally, breast enhancement can help to balance out asymmetrical breasts or correct congenital defects, such as tubular breasts. For many women, breast enhancement is a way to feel more confident in their own skin and achieve a more proportional and balanced figure.

To learn more about this procedure, click here.

Types of Breast Implants

There are two main types of breast implants: saline and silicone. Saline implants are filled with sterile saltwater, while silicone implants are filled with a cohesive silicone gel. Both types of implants have their own advantages and disadvantages, and your surgeon can help you choose the best option based on your individual needs.

The Breast Augmentation Procedure

Breast augmentation surgery typically takes between one and two hours and is performed under general anesthesia. During the procedure, the surgeon will make incisions in the breast crease, around the nipple, or in the armpit, depending on the patient’s anatomy and the type of implant being used. The implant is then inserted into a pocket created either under the breast tissue or beneath the chest muscle.

Recovery and Results

After the procedure, patients can expect to experience some discomfort and swelling for a few days. Most patients are able to return to work within a week or two and resume normal activities after four to six weeks. Patients will begin to see the results of the procedure immediately, but the final results may not be fully visible for several months.

Risks and Complications

Like any surgical procedure, breast augmentation carries some risks and potential complications. These include bleeding, infection, scarring, and implant rupture or leakage. However, with proper surgical techniques and postoperative care, the risk of complications can be minimized.

Choosing a Surgeon

When choosing a surgeon for your breast augmentation procedure, it is important to do your research and find a qualified, experienced, and board-certified plastic surgeon. The surgeon should be able to provide you with before-and-after photos of previous patients and answer any questions you may have about the procedure.

Choosing a qualified and experienced surgeon is crucial when considering breast enhancement surgery. A good surgeon will have the necessary training and expertise to perform the procedure safely and effectively, reducing the risk of complications and ensuring optimal results. When selecting a surgeon, it is important to do your research and look for someone who is board-certified in plastic surgery and has a track record of successful breast enhancement procedures. You should also consider the surgeon’s level of communication, their approach to patient care, and their willingness to answer any questions or concerns you may have. Ultimately, choosing the right surgeon can make all the difference in the success and satisfaction of your breast enhancement journey.

(Dr. Vanek’s state-of-the-art facility in Concord, Ohio)

In Conclusion

Breast augmentation is a safe and effective way to enhance the size and shape of a woman’s breasts. With proper research and the help of a qualified plastic surgeon, patients can achieve their desired results and improve their self-confidence and body image. If you are considering breast augmentation, talk to your doctor to learn more about the procedure and whether it is right for you.

Click here to contact Dr. Paul Vanek. 

Here is a minimally invasive skin tightening procedure using the power of radio frequency (RF) plus cold helium plasma.

Doing all the right things to battle the signs of aging—using sunblock, eating healthy, and a great skin care regimen—does not always stop the signs of aging.

Traditional procedures like facelifts, brow lifts, and eyelid surgery used to be the only choices for minimizing sagging skin for a more youthful appearance. During the past ten years, some truly remarkable cosmetic procedures have produced fantastic results to tighten skin without the downtime, discomfort of surgery, and cost.

Dr. Vanek and his talented team are excited to offer Renuvion as a skin-tightening solution for patients who are not ready for surgery.

About Renuvion

The Renuvion skin tightening treatment is the first minimally invasive procedure that uses two technologies that are energy based: radio frequency (rf) energy and cold helium plasma.

• Radio frequency Energy has been used for years by heating the deep tissues under the skin to encourage collagen production. RF has a long and proven record of efficacy and safety. With new collagen growth, smooth skin is achieved by thickening and firming the skin over time for natural improvements in texture, tone, and firmness.
• Cold helium plasma forms when helium gas is charged electrically and converted to plasma. This plasma cools the skin while at the same time treated with RF. This helps to maintain comfort and protect surrounding tissues.

Because the skin is being heated and cooled at the same time allows Renuvion to heat the tissues to higher temperatures than before with other devices using RF. Treating more severe sagging in only one treatment can provide improved and even drastically better results. There is minimal recovery, and you are kept safe and comfortable.

Renuvion Uses

The Renuvion device has been built to be very versatile, so it can be used virtually anywhere to stimulate collagen production on the body where there is sagging or loose skin, crepiness, or small areas of fat.

Common problem areas of treatment:

• Upper face, including the forehead, between the eyebrows, and around the eyes

• Under the chin and the lower cheeks, jawline (jowls)

• Decolletage, chest, and neck

• Pectoral area or breasts

• Upper arms

• Abdomen

• Inner and outer thighs

During your consultation, Dr. Vanek will discuss your areas of concern to see if Renuvion (or another solution) is the best choice to provide optimal results.

Renuvion Treatment: What to Expect

If you and Dr. Vanek have agreed that Renuvion is an excellent choice for you, your procedure will be performed at Dr. Vanek’s Mentor Plastic Surgery & Med Spa. To achieve great results, minimally invasive incisions are made so the Renuvion device can be inserted under the skin.

Dr. Vanek will discuss which form of anesthesia will be used as he develops your treatment plan.

Once you have received anesthesia and are comfortable, Dr. Vanek will insert the Renuvion probe just beneath the skin’s surface. Once inserted, the probe will provide RF energy which will heat the tissues and at the same time cold helium plasma will cool the tissues. This allows for precise, targeted treatment.

During this procedure, Dr. Vanek will control the device’s location, timing, and temperature to ensure you receive effective and safe treatment. A bandage is placed over the incision sites, and you can return home. Depending on where you received treatment, Dr. Vanek may recommend a compression garment to support optimal healing and minimize swelling.

Renuvion Procedure Discomfort

Some patients choose general anesthesia for their assured comfort during the procedure, and after patients may feel mild discomfort. If you choose to do the procedure in the office, you may experience tolerable discomfort during the procedure time.

There can be some local soreness and swelling after your Renuvion treatment typically lasting a few days. Mild discomfort likened to what patients experience after liposuction has been described.

Recovery Time after Renuvion

Taking it easy for a few days after the procedure is expected, but this does not mean you will be bedridden. Patients may walk the same day and shower normally the next day. Most patients usually feel comfortable resuming all their normal activities in about one week.

Renuvion Results

You can expect to have noticeable changes after about one to two months’ time. These results should last for a very long time because Renuvion causes your natural tissues to build collagen.

This procedure can be perfected as you age to restore a youthful appearance

Dr. Vanek would love to discuss Renuvion with you or help you explore other options for minimally invasive procedures at the Mentor Plastic Surgery & Med Spa. Contact us today for a consultation! (440) 205-5750

I appreciate the gift of life for all my patients who wonder how we develop additional surgical skills!

If you ever wonder if your surgeon maintains up-to-date skill development, you can rest assured that I am constantly in a mode of article review and surgical science participation. In order to maintain skills, it is sometimes appropriate to refresh one’s ability to review the anatomy of the situation and discuss with other surgeons the most current and up-to-date methods of achieving the best outcomes possible. Of course, there are certain host factors associated with healing and outcome. However, the surgeon who is constantly evolving methods of improving outcomes is to be appreciated. It has been my sincere pleasure to participate in a surgical symposium where we can have an open forum of surgical discussion and then go to the anatomy lab to discuss and perform surgical procedures using new techniques.

These techniques would be impossible without the exploration of skills of the very selfless people who have donated their bodies to science in order to facilitate the learning and development of new techniques. Those who have donated their organs have a special place in heaven for me, as my brother has benefited from the gift of life in a successful heart transplant at Vanderbilt University. He has a new lease on life in every way after being on the precipice of leaving our world because of his cardiomyopathy.

That being said, I have the most significant appreciation for my ability to participate in the anatomic exploration of new techniques with other innovators at the forefront of surgical outcomes. As a medical student, It was my personal motivation to pursue Plastic Surgery as a career so that I could continue to innovate using the known and emerging principles of Plastic Surgery, biochemistry, wound healing, physiology, and anatomic knowledge to innovate in order to achieve the best outcomes possible for patients.

A heartfelt “Thank you” from one surgeon! I am sincerely grateful to those of you who read this and are contemplating the donation of your organs and body in the pursuit of scientific endeavor. You’re part of the medical profession in constant pursuit of improvement in humanity’s plight and the mitigation of suffering with your selfless gift.

By: Dr. Paul Vanek

For more information on organ donation, please click here.

If you’d like to contact us, please click here.

Aging causes lengthening of the upper lip skin, reducing the visible mucosal surface. Loss of subcutaneous fat flattens the lips and reduces the definition of anatomical landmarks such as the vermillion border, Cupid’s bow, and philtrum columns. This thinning combined with the repetitive movement of the orbicularis oris muscle results in “lipstick lines” or vertical rhytids emanating from the vermillion and extending onto the white upper lip skin. The skin is further thinned by degradation of elastin and collagen fibers which occurs with aging, and women have thinner soft tissue in the perioral region compared to men.

Hyaluronic acid fillers are commonly used to improve lip volume and to sculpt and define the vermillion and philtral border as they flatten with age. Filler placed between the skin and the orbicularis muscle provides improved skin structure and support to the upper lip. Filler should not be placed in the orbicularis oris muscle as the muscle houses the labial vascular supply, risking intravascular injection and subsequent necrosis. Neurotoxins, while they help weaken muscles causing lines, are detrimental to upper lip rejuvenation, as they do nothing to improve skin structure and may exacerbate elongation of the upper lip. Injectable agents do not shorten the elongated upper lip. Surgery, such as a lip lift to shorten the vertical skin in this area, may be a good adjunctive procedure.

For more information, please click here.

To contact us, please click here.

“A VISIA Complexion Analysis is an eye-opening, objective analysis of skin health,” says Dr. Paul Vanek. “It blows patients’ minds that the different components that affect the appearance of their skin can be objectively measured with spectral analysis.”

The VISIA is a skin health evaluation tool that helps Dr. Vanek develop a custom skin care and rejuvenation plan that is individualized to your needs.

“We incorporate the VISIA analysis right at the beginning so we can set objective metrics to measure the success of the treatment programs we propose,” says Dr. Vanek. “It only takes about 20 seconds to complete a scan. Patients are often surprised by the results because it makes them see their skin in an entirely new way. But, they love that it’s objective, that we can propose and proceed with a treatment path, re-scan, and judge the success of the treatment in a purely objective manner.”

How It Works
The VISIA uses multi-spectral imaging to highlight six key areas of concern: wrinkles, spots, pores, color variation/vascularization, bacteria population and sun damage. The results of the imaging are visualized, detailed and compared against a database of over one million scans allowing you and Dr. Vanek to quickly see how your skin health currently compares to the population. The ability to see and identify problematic areas in your skin’s complexion allows Dr. Vanek to suggest treatment options for prevention and rejuvenation.

“We recently had a 46-year-old woman come in to have shallow and deep acne scars on her chin evaluated. She’s of Eastern European decent, grew up in Arizona and recently moved to Mentor, Ohio. She wasn’t surprised that results of the VISIA showed she had oily skin, but she was taken aback that she’s in the lowest quintile for skin cleanliness as defined by a bacterial count of her pores,” says Dr. Vanek. “Based on the results, we did deep-cleanse exfoliations and a glycolic peel to treat the porphyrins (bacteria in the pores) and the Mentor Peel℠ to improve the appearance of her acne scars. After three months, we re-scanned her with the VISIA, and it objectively proves what she sees in the mirror: her fine-line wrinkles and scars are diminished, her pores are smaller, and her bacterial count is down. She’s experiencing fewer and fewer episodic acne breakouts, her skin looks clearer, and she couldn’t be happier.”

Complimentary Analysis, Always
Because of the VISIA’s ability to set objective standards, Dr. Vanek offers complimentary VISIA scans to all of his patients.

“You will always be offered a VISIA analysis. There’s no charge. Even our patients who come in for non-skin care related treatments have the opportunity to have the condition of their skin objectively evaluated.”

As a double board-certified plastic surgeon who has been practicing aesthetic medicine since 1996, Dr. Vanek can offer a variety of treatment recommendations to match your goals and anatomy. During the consultation, Dr. Vanek will be able to explain the risks and benefits of treatment paths in a forthright way so you can make an informed, medically sound decision.

“Give us a call if you are interested in improving the condition of your skin, in the New Year” says Dr. Vanek.