The Harley Street Journal

Bi-monthly newspaper for the cosmetic and plastic surgery sector

CarlFrascina

Hear what RegenLab had to say about Aesthetic Medicine Live 2022

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Last week, the RegenLab team headed to Olympia London to exhibit at Aesthetic Medicine Live 2022 – the UK’s leading medical aesthetic show. 

Medical aesthetic specialists gathered for two days of discovery, learning, business, and networking at AML, one of the UK’s medical aesthetics events. Cutera, Hydrafacial, and Cosmeditech were among the companies that exhibited at the event, alongside key speakers such as Antonia Mariconda, Alex Bugg and Dr Anna Hemming who educated attendees on various topics. 

Across the two-days there were countless opportunities to talk with like-minded people about industry challenges, ideas, and solutions. Their CPD-accredited education included engaging seminars that brought practical and clinical teaching to life, as well as Business Workshops that provided professional advice on how to run a successful aesthetic practice.

One of the brands to exhibit at AML was RegenLab. “I’d like to thank everyone who came out to visit and support us throughout the two-day event – you’ll probably agree that the turnout was tremendous,” says Mark Johnson, RegenLab’s UK Director.

It’s exciting to see so many industry leaders re-emerge since the pandemic halted everything, and I’ve seen a number of clinics looking to expand their products and invest in the right technologies.

AML provided us with a terrific opportunity to introduce our breakthrough products to businesses and educate people about PRP technology.”

RegenLab has established itself as the global authority on PRP, having CE certifications and registration with regulatory organisations all around the world. They’ve been conceived, tried, tested, and patented, with over 200 publications, a large number of clinical trials, and over two million treatments conducted. 

RegenLab focused on training and informing clinics and practitioners about the following products during ACE:

  • Cellular Matrix – a revolutionary skincare breakthrough that combines two treatment methods into one medical device (class iii) for a safe, more natural appearance. When HA is combined with PRP, the activity of various molecules in platelet rich plasma is increased, allowing patients to gain better anti-aging outcomes such as enhanced skin tone, laxity, contouring, and rejuvenation.
  • RegenKIT HAIR — aids in the restoration of hair loss and increases hair density in men and women suffering from androgenetic alopecia. Stimulating hair bulb regeneration by increasing blood flow and improving follicular cell proliferation results in stronger, denser, and richer hair.
  • RegenKIT INTIMACY – PRP can be used to treat lichen sclerosus as well as female sexual dysfunction: After RegenPRP injection, PRP greatly enhances individual measurements of desire, arousal, lubrication, and orgasm.
  • RegenKIT DERMAL – a product that can be used to treat anti-aging, acne scarring, and keloid scarring. In the case of skin rejuvenation, PRP demonstrates the production of new collagen.

Mark adds: “This year’s AML exhibition was a great success for us. Over the course of the two-day event, we met with existing and many potential new customers, and we’re excited to see what prospects arise. The word on Regen PRP & especially Cellular Matrix is out now & everyone wants to work with the specialist pioneers. “ 

The Crackdown on Dermal Fillers Continues

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As dermal fillers continue to dominate the aesthetics market, the Joint Council for Cosmetic practitioners is calling for additional measures to safeguard the public from botched procedures.  

On Tuesday 26th April, MPs heard calls for dermal fillers and lip injections to be made prescription only treatments. This would require anybody wanting to undergo such procedures to first seek medical approval, making practitioners responsible for dishing out prescriptions. 

Under current rules, aesthetic practitioners in the UK do not require any mandatory qualifications to be able to perform non-surgical procedures on the public. This means, anybody can undergo a basic training course, and go on to perform dermal fillers on patients.

However, in recent years there has been a significant rise in patient complaints following unsafe non-surgical procedures resulting in botched treatments. As a direct response, earlier this year UK leaders announced a new initiative to see those administering dermal fillers, including Botox, legally required to hold a licence.   

Now, in a bid to further safeguard the public against botched procedures, the Joint Council for Cosmetic Practitioners is calling for all dermal filler treatments to be prescribed by licensed medical professionals capable of issuing prescriptions. This move would see medical professionals responsible for explaining the risks of the procedures, and the possible complications that may arise. 

The comments were made to MPs on the Health and Social Care Committee during a session on the impact of body image on mental and physical health.

Professor David Sines, chair of the Joint Council for Cosmetic Practitioners said: “We believe they should firmly become prescription only devices, because if they were then there would be a requirement for oversight from prescribers, which would provide greater protection for the public. 

In making dermal filler injectors need a prescription, it would crackdown on cowboy practitioners by making medically trained professionals responsible for signing-off treatment. It would be a matter of misconduct if a prescriber did not assure themselves that the person to whom they were delegating the prescription was fit and proficient.”

Shines also added that he was in discussion with the UK’s Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency about the possibility of making dermal filler injectors prescription only treatment, like Botox.

Currently, dermal filler treatments cost as little as £200 depending on the type of injections; and thousands of Britons undergo them each year aspiring to look like A list celebrities including Kylie Jenner and Kim Kardashian. This has prompted concern from experts that Britain is falling victim to a largely unregulated aesthetics industry. 

Various body image and cosmetic surgery groups have been campaigning for years for the Government to act and introduce new rules and regulations to safeguard the public against botched procedures. 

In February of this year the Government announced it would introduce a licensing regime for non-surgical cosmetic procedures, including dermal fillers and Botox. No date has been confirmed. 

Speaking exclusively to The Harley Street Journal, Malieh Hillman, an official distributor of Revitacare, a leading provider of treatment solutions to the aesthetics market said: “I agree with the calls for change. This market has been largely unregulated for a long time, and as it continues to grow unfortunately there has been a rise in unsafe practice. 

To ensure each patient receives a professional, and safe level of treatment, there does need to be a licensing system in place to ensure practitioners are adequately trained within the treatment being administered. 

For patients, they need to understand the dangers of unsafe practice when it comes to injectable treatments and be confident in the knowledge that their chosen practitioner is well-qualified and equipped to deal with any complications safely. If not administered correctly, the risk of complications involved can be severe. 

Of course, complications can arise even in the most skilled of hands, but the risk of complication is significantly minimised when injections are prepared and injected by an experienced practitioner.”

MPs from the Health and Social Care Committee also discussed the prospect of requiring watermarks to be added to digitally altered images using filters that are frequently being posted on social media.c

2022 S-Thetics Clinic Patient Education Event

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Next month, delegates from across the UK and around the globe are heading to Hedsor House – one of the UK’s most exclusive and impressive venues – to attend the S-Thetics Clinic Patient Education Event. 

For the past five years, the S-Thetics team has presented a large annual patient education event with the goal of educating, empowering, and enlightening consumers to help them make safe and educated decisions when contemplating non-surgical aesthetic treatments.

Under the supervision of Miss Balaratnam and her S-Thetics team, patients will get insight into what happens when they become patients. The goal is to learn more about what goes on “In The Consulting Room” and beyond.

This immersive patient education event will include live treatment demonstrations, presentations, and educational experiences covering the full range of aesthetic treatments for the skin, face, scalp, and body from some of the world’s leading aesthetic brands, all of which are available at the S-Thetics clinic.

Sherina Balaratnam, a two-time award winner, developed S-Thetics. Following the recent Aesthetics Awards, she was named ‘Medical Aesthetic Practitioner Of The Year,’ and her clinic was named ‘Best Clinic South England’ (for the 2nd time).

Sherina Balaratnam adds: “We are thrilled to be welcoming attendees this year to the luxurious Hedsor House. During the event, we hope that delegates and consumers may learn, network, share experiences, and stay up to date on the newest advancements and therapeutic achievements in aesthetics. This year, the nation’s finest KOLs will speak in Hedsor House’s main ballroom, providing participants with world-class teaching.”

RegenLab – a Swiss manufacturer of Class IIb & III Medical Devices for autologous blood cell preparations, hyaluronic acid, and bone marrow cell extracts are amongst the list of many suppliers who will be exhibiting at the event. RegenLab has had a lot of global success with device sales since they started 20 years ago, thanks to the holistic and restorative nature of the therapies.

“This year’s S-Thetics Patient Education Event, which brings together the whole industry for a two-day event, is something we’re really looking forward to. We are ecstatic to be exhibiting and discussing our game-changing products and technologies with attendees interested in learning more. During the Patient Education Event, we will be demonstrating our products in use, for individuals to see first-hand the process.” Deputy Director of RegenLab Carlo Turzi adds.

During the event, the S-Thetics team are keen to shine a light on PRP, with an additional focus on scalp and hair health, and the multiple treatment options they have to address this. 

With this in mind, RegenLab hopes to educate and enlighten clinics and practitioners specifically on ‘Cellular Matrix’ which is a ground-breaking skincare innovation that blends two treatment concepts into one for natural-looking results. When HA is combined with PRP, the activity of various molecules in platelet rich plasma is increased, allowing patients to get better anti-aging outcomes such as enhanced skin tone, laxity, contouring, and rejuvenation.

As well as RegenLab, other companies and delegates from all around the world will be joining the S-Thetics team for this two-day event. 

Other confirmed vendors include skincare, energy-based devices, body contouring, light therapy, nutraceuticals, medical-grade facial treatments, skin imaging, and more.

The S-Thetics Clinic Patient Education Event will be taking place on Wednesday 22nd and Thursday 23rd June 2022 – don’t miss out! 

Deleo to exhibit at FACE London

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In a month, European design and manufacturing leading company, Deleo, are heading to InterContinental London at the O2 to exhibit at the UK’s premier aesthetic medicine conference and exhibition  – FACE.

Across the two-day event, FACE showcases the most up-to-date clinical knowledge, practical suggestions, and advancements in the field of aesthetic treatments.

FACE has evolved into one of the world’s most prestigious aesthetic conferences during the last 18 years. FACE continues to dominate the premium UK market of medical aesthetics, with over 150 national and international speakers and a complete agenda structure. It’s widely acknowledged as one of the most important dates in the calendar for anyone working in aesthetics or anti-aging treatment.

This conference program of world-class quality offers in-depth insights through 150 scientific sessions offered by 100+ prominent experts in six conference theatres.

Andre Fournier, Co-Founder of Deleo says: “We are really thrilled to be exhibiting at FACE this year and cementing our position within the UK market. We have been putting more of a focus on networking within the UK this year, having attendedACE in March too. This really gives us a fantastic opportunity to re-connect and introduce ourselves to the rest of the industry once more.

FACE hasa fantastic programme – myself and the team are looking forward to not only showing off our latest technologies, but also learning and staying abreast of the latest happening within the industry.

Our focus at FACE will be to showcase our innovative body layering concept – it provides a global approach by merging three cutting-edge technologies.”

The medical aesthetics market is steadily being transformed by body layering. For the first time, three non-invasive technologies can be used to shape, sculpt, and tone the body and face.

Deleo is assisting aesthetic medicine in reaching new heights with the Cristal Pro, Cristal Fit, and Cristal Skin Trio. The original design was inspired by a request from individuals who work on the front lines of the industry: surgeons. Their job required them to investigate every layer of the body, from muscle to fat to skin. Deleo devised a three-part treatment that targets the epidermis, hypodermis, and muscles to aid them. The Body Layering philosophy offers a completely tailored approach in addition to its mix of cutting-edge technologies.

“At Deleo, we recognised that each patient is unique, therefore we customised the treatment by allowing the doctor to conduct a thorough examination. An algorithm considers a number of specific details (age, number of children, medical history, skin quality, and so on) to provide a personalised diagnosis to the clinician. Body Layering serves as a comprehensive approach and a highly optimised treatment procedure by examining the different layers of the body,” explains Fournier. 

Many other manufacturers have one or two methods for treating individuals for body/face contouring, such as cryolipolysis, radio frequency, or electromagnetic stimulation; however, they rarely use a combination of these technologies in tandem to maximise patient outcomes.

Deleo recognised there was an opportunity to design a cutting-edge three-step concept that could do all three duties while ensuring safety and efficacy.

“Our Cristal treatments give outstanding results, and we have had many positive testimonials throughout the years and the before and after pictures, speak volumes! Apart from the fact that it’s non-invasive, it’s easy to see why it’s so popular, and we’re excited to demonstrate it at FACE. Alongside our Body Layering concept, we also have a few other new exciting and innovative technologies to share with everyone which have been years in the making.” says Fournier. 

Deleo hasa busy year ahead of them, showcasing their popular Body Layering concept across the world and exhibiting at Internationalconferences and exhibition centres. Within the UK, Dr. Dev Patel, Dr. Rita Rakus, Dr. Dray, and Miss CC Kat, to name a few, are among the current users of Deleo’s Cristal body layering technology.

Visit www.deleo.co.uk to view the full portfolio of devices available. 

New BAAPS report reveals 44% increase in complications from cosmetic surgery abroad

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A recent study from the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (BAAPS) has revealed a staggering 44% rise in complications from cosmetic surgery abroad.

Over the past two three years, the Covid-19 pandemic and the so called “Zoom Boom” has increased the demand for aesthetic procedures, leading patients to seek cheaper deals abroad. Unfortunately, this has resulted in BAAPS seeing an increase in patients needing correctional surgery, leading the organisation to call for compulsory insurance to ease the burden on an already strained NHS.

The audit showed that around 324 patients in the past four years have sought correctional procedures after returning to the UK. This is a sharp rise compared to 2019, when the pandemic began to unfold, and patients were advised against elective surgery and unnecessary travel.

In 2021, following a cosmetic procedure abroad 75 women and 7 men were treated in the UK for complications, including life threatening conditions such as debridement of dead skin tissue, and admission to intensive care for life support following systemic infection. Despite treatment, these complications would still leave permanent, and life changing physical deformities along with the psychological effects of these injuries.

Hagen Schumacher, a leading Consultant Plastic Surgeon at Adore Life says:

“These statistics are alarming and prove that sometimes cheaper can prove more expensive. Of course, there are several reasons why patients might choose to travel abroad for plastic surgery, but the most common reason I find is price. It’s often a cheaper to undergo cosmetic procedures abroad, because here in the UK the NHS rarely funds cosmetic procedures so patients must seek desired treatments privately, which can be costly.”

A survey of BAAPS council members showed that 100% of complications came from Turkey and that abdominoplasty accounted for 75% of complications, followed by breast surgery procedures at 25%. 

“It is important to remember that all surgery comes with a risk of potential complications.” says Hagen.

“Whilst it may be cheaper to undergo a procedure abroad, it may also increase the risk of a complication developing, particularly after certain procedures such  as tummy tucks that carry higher risks.

“In the event of any issues, follow up care is usually included after surgery in the UK, so the surgeon can check everything is healing as it should, and provide any additional care. 

“Abroad, the clinic may not have such a procedure in place, and it is often up to the individual if they want to travel back to their surgeon or see a UK-based surgeon instead. Both come at considerable costs and added up, this often exceeds the costs of UK-based treatment.”

The BAAPS survey reveals that many patients who have experienced complications are treated on an already strained NHS. One study presented to BAAPS in 2017 suggested the average cost to the NHS per patient was £13,500, this figure is now estimated to be closer to £15,000. Many also require private treatment, which when added up works out more expensive than undergoing the procedure in the UK.

Hagen says: “Another factor that can greatly increase the risk of complication is travel. Flying within a week of a cosmetic procedure can greatly increase the chances of developing blood clots, which could lead to deep vein thrombosis or a pulmonary embolism with a potentially fatal outcome.

“Many plastic surgeons recommend waiting for 2-6 weeks following surgery to reduce this risk which is often not possible when having surgery abroad.”

When seeking cosmetic procedures abroad, research is crucial. The healthcare system in the UK is very strict compared to some other countries. All medical professionals, including plastic surgeons are held to incredibly high standards and the cost to practice equally as high. To provide a safe, top-quality service, plastic surgeons must pay high insurance fees, undergo regular training sessions, and register with several professional bodies such as the General Medical Council or the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons.

Antonia Mariconda, Founder of Safety in Beauty, a UK organisation founded to raise awareness of unsafe activities within aesthetics adds: “Not all cosmetic tourism is bad. The safety standards and regulations in the UK are actually very similar in other countries; the danger lies in lack of research.

“Background research is so incredibly important. Patients need to understand exactly how the healthcare system in the country they have chosen is regulated and the level of training the professionals undergo before practicing. Besides the regulations, patients often do not get a chance to visit the facility ahead of treatment to check it is safe, clean and they would feel comfortable in that environment.”

Hagen adds: “It is not only the UK that hold practitioners to high standards. Without prior knowledge of the country, its culture and of course its healthcare system it can be tricky to select a surgeon that suits individual needs.

In terms of safety, Brazil, Thailand, and Malaysia are among the top destinations abroad for medical tourism according to The International Medical Travel Journal.

“BAPRAS offer some advice for patients considering cosmetic surgery abroad on their website. However, in practical terms it is very difficult to assess and compare standards in other countries and often requires specialist knowledge.

Rio de Janeiro is considered to be the “World Capital of Plastic Surgery,” due to its innovations, high quality procedures and protocols in patient safety. There is no shortage of highly trained doctors and JCI-accredited hospitals, and procedures could cost less than they would in the UK, but extensive background research must be carried out beforehand, and the patient must have provisions in place should any complications arise.”

Travelling abroad for cosmetic surgery is not a new phenomenon, but the increased demand for cosmetic tourism following the pandemic, and the subsequent rise in complications has led to BAAPS calling for Cosmetic Surgery Travel Insurance to be made compulsory to help tackle the situation.

Cynosure Acquire & Launch MyEllevate

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Cynosure has officially launched the MyEllevate® Surgical Suture System to the UK, expanding its best-class portfolio. 

Committed to delivering the latest innovations to support healthcare professionals, and aid in rising patient demand for surgical results at a minimally invasive level, the MyEllevate system offers a   discreet, non-invasive approach to neck and jawline contouring. 

Harnessing the power of the patented ICLED® light guided suture system, MyEllevate allows practitioners to easily place a suture support system without incisions, helping to define and enhance the jawline, elevate the sub-dermis and underlying muscle with rapid recovery and a lasting outcome. 

MyEllevate is the first and only patented light guided technology for use in soft tissue approximation and the elevation of sub dermis and underlying muscle. It uses a one-time use disposable surgical kit that enables the placement of a suture support system through a series of guided needle punctures, resulting in a less invasive approach.

The system was invented by Board Certified Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Gregory Mueller, he says: “As procedures like neck and face lifts continue to decline in popularity due to their invasiveness and extensive recovery time, patients are seeking new and innovative options. With Cynosure’s global reach and leadership, we’ll have the opportunity to enter new markets and expand access to MyEllevate and its long-lasting facial rejuvenation results.”

Cynosure officially launched MyEllevate into the UK aesthetic surgical market at an exclusive cadaver training event on the 24thMarch at Guys’ & St Thomas’ Hospital. The event was hosted by Dr. Gregory Mueller, MD, FACS Board Certified Plastic Surgeon, and Inventor of the MyEllevate System.

Todd Tillemans, Chief Executive Officer of Cynosure comments: “MyEllevate broadens Cynosure’s already extensive surgical product portfolio, enabling us to offer this ground-breaking procedure in combination with other energy-based skin tightening technologies for optimal, long-lasting results.

Also known as the Zoom Lift, MyEllevate has gained popularity recently as more patients look for minimally invasive solutions to improve their appearance in today’s world of virtual meetings. It’s a cutting-edge treatment, and we’re thrilled to be able to offer this highly sought-after procedure to selected UK customers so that they can bring out the Beautiful Energy in everyone.”

MyEllevate can be performed under local anaesthesia and can be used as a stand-alone procedure or in combination with other treatments such as Potenza, TempSure® Surgical or SmartLipo® laser lipolysis treatments and energy-based skin tightening technologies.

As part of its ongoing commitment to quality and patient safety, Cynosure will only be making the MyEllevate procedure available to licenced plastic surgeons in the UK, and this specialised launch training event will enable selected expert plastic surgeons to understand the critical patient indications and selection process, alongside the surgical technique from the device founder himself. 

This acquisition comes as part of a continued effort from Cynosure, to provide a portfolio of devices that sit at the forefront of cutting-edge technology.

 

MyEllevate

UK to Introduce Licencing Initiative for Botox and Dermal fillers

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The UK is set to introduce new legislation to set standards for non-surgical cosmetic treatments, including Botox after a sharp rise in ‘botched’ procedures. 

Under the proposed initiative, people administering Botox or Dermal fillers will be legally required to have a license to safeguard consumers against rouge practitioners after an ‘unacceptable’ rise in complaints.  

Currently, whilst only licensed medical professionals can legally prescribe Botox, there is no regulations in place on who can administer non-surgical procedures, leaving patients open to risk of complication. 

Whilst it has been recognised that most people and premises within the aesthetics Industry do follow good practice to keep patients safe, there has been a sharp rise in complaints of ‘botched’ procedures leaving patients with visible scars. 

UK Health Secretary, Sajid Javid says “far too many people have been left emotionally and physically scarred when things have gone wrong. It’s time to think about the harm botched cosmetic procedures can have.”

“We’re doing all we can to protect patients from potential harm, but I urge anyone considering a cosmetic procedure to take the time to think about the impact on both their physical and mental health and ensure they are using a reputable, safe and qualified practitioner.” 

Maria Caulfield, the minister for patient safety, says social media has undoubtedly led to a rise in demand for Botox and dermal filler procedures, and there had been a subsequent increase in patients suffering the consequences of badly performed procedures.  

Speaking exclusively to The Harley Street Journal, Antonia Mariconda, Founder of Safety in Beauty, a UK organisation founded to raise awareness of unsafe activities within aesthetics says: 

“There has been a significant rise in patient complains following unsafe non-surgical procedures. It is important to understand the dangers of unsafe practice when it comes to injectable treatments. If not done correctly, the consequences can cause scarring, permanent disfigurement, paralysis and even death. 

I urge patients considering any sort of cosmetic procedure to seek a board-certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon to minimise the risk of complication. Adverse side effects are less likely to occur if injections are prepared and injected by an experienced practitioner.”  

This new legislation will also lay out consistent hygiene and safety standards for premises administering non-surgical procedures.

The Department of Health and Social Care said the amendment to the health and care bill, is due to be tabled today (1st March) and would give UK Health Secretary the power to introduce new regulations, and a legal licensing requirement for these procedures.

The move follows the introduction of the Botulinum Toxin and Cosmetic Fillers (Children) Act, which was enforced in the UK last October to ban those under the 18 from receiving Botox and dermal lip-fillers for cosmetic reasons. There is also a ban on procedure advertisements, including social media and influencers to safeguard youngsters.

Further details on the public consultation on non-surgical cosmetic procedures will be set out at a later date. 

Deleo to exhibit at ACE London 2022

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This month, European design and manufacturing leading company, Deleo, are heading to the Business Design Centre in London to exhibit at one of the biggest events in the aesthetics industry – ACE.

Through a two-day clinical education programme, ACE assists healthcare professionals in broadening their understanding of products and practices.

This large-scale event is set to have over 80 exhibitors present products and services to more than 2,500 practitioners, assisting them in running a successful clinic. 

Delegates can learn, network, share expertise, and stay up to date on the newest innovations and clinical breakthroughs in medical aesthetics by attending ACE. All of the educational events are free to attend, CPD accredited, and hosted by top medical aesthetic providers. Each year, the world’s top KOLs take the stage, providing attendees with world-class education right in the heart of London.

Andre Fournier, Co-Founder of Deleo says:

“We are very much looking forward to attending ACE for the first time since the pandemic and seeing the whole industry come together once again for this fantastic two-day event.  This event is really important to us here at Deleo, as it officially introduces Deleo and it’s body layering concept to the UK market.”

Deleo’s Cristal body layering idea was designed with the practitioner and customer in mind, having three basic roles to aid volume, tonicity, and firmness.

“At Deleo, we pride ourselves on creating creative solutions to address the needs of practitioners and end-consumers,” says Andre Fournier, Co-Founder.

“Many other manufacturers have one or two methods for treating individuals for body contouring, such as cryolipolysis, radio frequency, or electromagnetic stimulation; however, they rarely use a combination of these technologies in tandem to maximise patient outcomes.

We recognised there was an opportunity to design a cutting-edge three-step concept that could do all three duties while ensuring safety and efficacy.

We are happy with the fantastic results that our Cristal treatments achieve, and we have had great testimonies over the years,” Andre comments. “The results of patients who submitted before and after photos are amazing. Aside from the fact that it is non-invasive, it is easy to see why it is so popular and we just can’t wait to showcase this concept at ACE.”

As well as being able to present products, the event provides a fantastic environment to network, meet with clients and potential customers since lockdown, especially for those companies travelling from overseas. 

“Whilst we have some truly fantastic trade shows to attend in France and Internationally this year, it’s especially exciting to have a chance to travel across the pond and meet with industry specialists over in the UK. I think ACE will provide us with a great opportunity to network and touch base with existing customers who we are very excited to meet.” 

Deleo presently has eighteen devices in clinics across the country; current users of the Cristal body layering device include Dr Dev Patel, Dr Rita Rakus, Dr Dray, and Miss CC Kat, to mention a few.

Visit www.deleo.co.uk to view the full portfolio of devices available. 

Lou Sommeroux shares her ‘restoration not transformation’ approach to injectables

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Leading aesthetic expert and founder of Cosmex Clinic, Lou Sommereux, shares why a versatile Hyaluronic Acid filler complements her ‘restoration not transformation’ approach to injectables.

Aesthetic expert and nurse practitioner Lou Sommereux champions a revived effect for her patients, preferring to enhance their own features. “The demographic of my patients tends to be 40 plus, who would like to look healthy and rejuvenated”, says Lou. “We refer to this as a fresh look, as if our patients have been on holiday. Hyaluronic Acid (HA) fillers, such as Sinclair Pharma’s latest innovation MaiLi, fit beautifully into this vision.”

For 40 plus patients, Lou prefers to offer a restoration, not a transformation. “The mid-face is a good area to start with for these patients, giving support to the underlying tissues and ligaments. HA filler integrates into the tissues in different areas of the face to create a restoring effect. My older patients don’t want to look 20 again; as they say, that isn’t going to suit their body. But they want to restore some volume loss, soften lines and define a slightly blurred jaw line.”

MaiLi’s portfolio supports this aesthetic. MaiLi helps rejuvenate, contour and sculpt the face, while acting like soft, flexible and elastic skin tissue, working with natural movement and expression. This means patients will experience soft and supple skin, compared with more rigid or restrictive fillers.

As an aesthetic expert, Lou enjoys the marriage of science and art. “I can treat all areas of the face with MaiLi due to the wide ranging portfolio”, she explains. “It’s a bit like having an artist’s palette; you have products to suit all indications in all areas of the face. You need to have an artist’s eye when injecting, in addition to understanding anatomy, the rheologyof the products you are using and discussing realistic expectations with your patients. As practitioners we need to have a multifaceted skillset to give the outcome and results your patients are happy with, and you are proud of.”

Due to its wide range of products, MaiLi can treat a variety of patients and aesthetic aspirations. “Following an assessment and consultation, we can tailor the range depending on the requirements of the patient. For example, MaiLi can give volume and correction for a younger patient, while an older person may prefer softening lines and wrinkles. The HA concentration in each product is slightly different, so I can adapt to different indications and skin quality. Many of our patients may have two to three appointments to build up to the final result. In doing so, we build trust and confidence, laying the groundwork for their confidence in us. Education about expectations is so important.”

Safe treatment is a priority for all practitioners. Lou shares how she reviews new products to ensure she feels confident about their safety profile. “The safety profile of a product is incredibly important. While patients ask for treatments with longevity and with minimal downtime – both of which MaiLi offers – as experts we know safety plays a key part in the roll out of a new product in clinic.”

“I review the trials and tests a product undergoes, looking at the clinical evidence to ensure a product is safe and effective. That gives me confidence, which exudes to my patients and wider team. In-clinic, I consider what I would want to see as a patient. As a result, we always open the product box in front of our patients and show the expiry date, so patients know it is sterile and unopened. We discuss our cross-infection controls and show our patients the sterile dressing packs.”

The message of safe care has trickled down to a wider patient group, Lou shares. “More recently, younger patients have come to see us, because they have seen the dangerous results that can be achieved from treatment at unregulated clinics. They want to come to a medical clinic where they know treatment will be safe.”

MaiLi is synonymous with safety, and uses lidocaine for a more comfortable experience for patients. The injected gel is in constant contact with the surrounding tissues, and returns to its initial shape due to Smart Spring properties. Harnessing the power of the world’s first OxiFreeTMHA technology, MaiLi uses 24% less filler* for unparalleled volume, suppleness and projection power with supreme longevity. 

There are a multitude of companies offering aesthetic products. Lou shares why she opts to use a particular brand. “I like working with companies who respond to their customers’ requirements. For example, Sinclair Pharma has listened regarding the ergonomics of their syringes; they are comfortable to use. There is no significant extrusion force with the MaiLi syringes, there is no pressure that I’m putting onto the delicate tissues of the skin as I push down the plunger.”

MaiLi follows the lineage established by medical aesthetics company Sinclair Pharma which also boasts Ellansé, a collagen stimulating dermal filler for the face, in its treatment portfolio; as well as the other recently launched Lanluma collagen stimulating dermal filler; and Silhouette Soft, its unique cone threaded sutures for non-surgical skin lifting. 

For more information, please visit:  https://www.sinclairpharma.com. The opinions expressed in this piece are solely those of Lou Sommereux.

Plastic surgeon and aesthetics trainer Dr Pierre Nicolau passes away

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The aesthetics world is deeply saddened to hear about the passing of the eminent Plastic Surgeon Dr Pierre Nicolau.

Also a trainer for Sinclair Pharma, Dr Nicolau was recognised as a leading expert in his field of aesthetic medicine. 

Dr Pierre Nicolau studied at the Faculty of Medicine of Montpellier. After completing his training in Plastic Surgery, he went on to perfect his training for almost four years in England. And had also worked in Houston, Texas.

Dr Nicolau worked at the Assistance Publique – Hôpitaux de Paris as a Plastic Surgery consultant, first at Rothschild Hospital, then at Saint Louis University Hospital in the Professor M. Mimoun unit, and for over 10 years in Colombes at the Louis Mourier University Hospital.

Since 2003, he taught for the Inter University Diploma, which trains surgeons and dermatologists for injectable fillers and botulinum toxin (University PARIS XII), where he was in charge of teaching about the “Biological effects of injectable fillers”.

Dr Nicolau also conducted humanitarian missions in Pakistan, Vietnam and African countries for over 10 years. In parallel, he always followed developments in cosmetic surgery, participating in many conferences and congresses in France and abroad. 

Dr Nicolau led more than 500 Sinclair Pharma training courses and workshops, and delivered over 300 communications and lectures at congresses worldwide, as a recognised expert in his field. He also published over 68 articles and chapters in journals and scientific books.

Dr Victoria Manning worked alongside Dr Nicolau as part of their work with Sinclair Pharma. Dr Manning commented: “I was lucky enough to have met Pierre many times. I called him my guru! He has trained me, mentored me and been on the end of a text message when I needed his expertise and guidance. The passion he delivered around aesthetic medicine was inspirational. No words can really sum up how a lot of us are feeling right now. We have lost a friend and a colleague. His shoes will be extremely hard to fill in the Sinclair Pharma team. I wish his family and friends all the best in this tragic time.”

Chris Spooner, Managing Director of Sinclair Pharma added: “Pierre was both colleague and friend. Intellectually curious, energetic and independent-minded, he was amusing company and a valuable colleague. His untimely death is both tragic and distressing, and I am among very many who will miss him. My sincere condolences to Pierre’s wife, Raymonde, and family.”