The Real Deal
- Sunny Kim
- 3 days ago
- 5 min read
Can you guess which results are from Morpheus8 and which are from Sofwave treatment? This wall of skin firming and smoothing fame is produced by excellent technology, but the more critical variable in these success stories is WHO is performing the treatment. (It was DermNurseLara 👩⚕️) Both these treatments offered at SKin Phi were chosen after a rigorous search for the absolute BEST in class for Microneedle-RF and Focused Ultrasound technologies that stimulate collagen for skin smoothing, tightening or firming effect. We had to test drive the top technologies to determine the most effective and safest ones, compare them to their competition and chose the literal best. The most likely to produce reliable and consistent results for our patients.
The recent internet buzz around Morpheus8 warnings by the FDA warrants a discussion about some very real problems, as well as dispelling any myths. The warning issued is not about the safety or efficacy of the technology, but rather, about the potential adverse effects of mis-use of the device. Improper treatment techniques, inadequate training, or unqualified operators performing the treatment can result in scarring, loss of healthy tissue, and contour deformity. This goes the same for all devices applied in patient care, injectables, drugs and even medical skincare. That's why this month's focus is on EXPERIENCE.
I do believe everyone has to start somewhere. For new clinicians who are just getting started in this medical aesthetic space, if they are invested in their education in learning and practicing new skills and honest about being "green", you might choose to trust them with your skin. Anyone can tell you, you are no expert when you are first learning a skill. It takes hundreds of patients and thousands of hours before you can say you have EXPERTISE in a skill. Same goes for lasers and energy devices like the Morpheus8.
When we started SKin Phi, our tagline became Experience. Care. Trust.
Experience means that between DermNurseLara and myself, we have a combined 43 years of experience in dermatology, laser medicine, and aesthetic injections. We have a deep background in medical dermatology and cosmetic dermatology and were mentored by one of the pioneering sub-speciality dermatologists in the country.
We were involved in training dermatology residents and fellows in laser and aesthetic dermatology for over 17+ years at Laserderm. Many of those dermatologists now refer their patients to us, because they know these patients will receive the most experienced and trusted care. This is a humbling badge of honour we wear with the utmost responsibility and gratitude. You can read our detailed bio's by clicking the photos.
Getting back to the Morpheus8, we have had some wonderful success with it, for wrinkle resurfacing, skin tightening, and scar improvement. This is not easily done, and there is no one size fits all when it comes to Morpheus treatment. We saw some of the earliest Microneedle RF devices used in dermatology, they usually involved a lot of pain and long downtime. The Morpheus8 was a welcome refined advancement and is recognized as the OG of Microneedle-RF skin resurfacing, and we were amazed at how good the results were considering how little recovery time was involved. Different anatomical areas of the face require a very tailored approach when it comes to depth of penetration and energy levels used. Algorithms and treatment protocols are only as good as the clinician's ability to evaluate and properly assess treatment indication, potential risks and adverse effects, and then appropriately apply treatments settings. This is the care you receive from DermNurseLara, it is her over 16 years of laser dermatology experience that determines the best possible outcome. The device is powerful and can do wonderful things, in the right hands!
Sometimes a Sofwave (focused ultrasound energy) is a better option than Morpheus8, and other times a combination approach is what produces the best result. We also know the limits of these non-surgical procedures. If something is beyond what we know the Morpheus8 or Sofwave can treat realistically, we will discuss options like surgical or deeper resurfacing methods, and can refer the patient to other experts. We do this happily, because helping you achieve your goals is our goal too. That sometimes means sending you to the right surgeon or dermatologist.
So the winning formula is always: The right tool, in the right hands. Botox should be seen as a medical art, same with filler. I have to be honest and say that I wasn't an artist in the first year that I learned how to treat patients with Botox and filler. I think it's appropriate to obsess over technical aspects of mastering a new skill, and the technical proficiency is tantamount in medical procedures- protocols, and product knowledge, safety measures, patient selection and education. 2007 seems like a looong time ago, this is around the time I became passionate about Botox, fillers like Juvederm and Restylane, Sculptra and Radiesse. This took time and education, and mostly, the EXPERIENCE that was possible by working in a very busy cosmetic dermatology clinic in my early career. That learning curve and the mentorship by thought leaders was everything. I am now in a position to teach and help newer clinicians acquire knowledge and skills, and I also feel this is my indirect way of intending goodness for all patients seeking this kind of self-care, even the ones I don't come in direct contact with.
The fear of "migration" or looking weird is real these days. Patients who come to SKin Phi trust that their enhancements are done with the highest standard of safety, and artistry. Not too much, and not too often. About 15 years ago I didn't realize that quietly a reputation was being built, and the talk around town was that The Needle Whisperer is who to see if you don't want to look like a Housewives of New Jersey cast member. That's what a patient told me one day, when she said they call me The Needle Whisperer. The thing about a reputation is, you then have to live up to it. So I try to do that every day.
I wrote an Instagram post a couple of years ago on how injectable results varies mostly based on the doctor or nurse treating you. Not everyone performs to the highest safety standard of care. Not everyone can perform a skill artfully. Period. I encourage patients to vet their doctor or nurse, and ask many questions, ask to see their personal portfolio or work to demonstrate their experience and success rates.
Aside from product performance differences, WHO is injecting is always the differentiator. And here’s the shocking part, did you know that cheaper doesn’t always cost you less??
Who would you let inject you?
Some questions to ask potential injectors:
❓How long have you been doing this?
❓What is your training?
❓Is this your specialty? meaning, is this the FOCUS of your clinical practice.
❓What is your philosophy in aesthetics?
❓How are you prepared to mitigate complications and adverse events?
(you can click the link or the photo here to read full details of the post)
Injectables Promo
November is the right time to plan your self-care for the holiday season. Or if winter is your get-away time, book for your tweaks now. We will be closed for the holiday break between Dec 22-Jan 2.
Many of you have been asking when the return of the Filler and Botox gift promo is happening again.... it's NOW :)
Get 2 syringes of any filler (Juvederm, Restylane, Radiesse, Sculptra) and receive a complimentary 20 units of Botox ($260 value)
(Skinvive skin hydrator is 3 syringes to qualify for this promo, or 2 Skinvive and 1 other filler of any kind)
Skincare for Stocking Stuffers
Save 15% on all skincare in the month of November, get your holiday gift list checked off with the essentials from Alastin, Skinceuticals, sunscreens, and more.
SKin Phi Gift cards are perfect in any size and the most appreciated present for your loved ones. Please send your giftcard request to: lcastilla@skinphi.ca
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