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Plan Ahead To Look Your Best For Weddings, Reunions & The Beach

By Cheryl Wells

If you are planning a little spruce up for a Spring or Summer event like a wedding or high school reunion, NOW is the time to start planning! While many of the most modern procedures don’t have any “down time” where you’re hiding behind big sunglasses, they do take some time to take effect. For example, Botox will give you a noticeable improvement in about a week, while you’ll need 3-6 months to see the maximum effects of Ultherapy as it spurs new collagen growth to smooth wrinkles and lifts your face. To time your treatments right, follow the chart below:

Upload: March 16, 2016
When to Schedule
(Minimum-Ideal)
Name of Procedure What it does
3-6 months Ultherapy – Face/neck & chest

Liposonix – Tummy, waist, thighs

Lift, tighten, tone and smooths wrinkles

Permanent fat cell destruction

4-8 weeks Fillers – Lips, cheeks, under eyes
smile lines and around the mouth
Adds volume
Softens wrinkles
3-6 weeks Botox – Crow’s feet, 11’s, forehead and other facial wrinkles Buys you “wrinkle-free” time. Softens wrinkles and decreases muscle movement
3-4 weeks IPL/BBL – Face, neck, chest, hands Diminishes brown spots, freckles, redness, veins, rosacea, sun damage and more
2-8 weeks Clear & Brilliant — Coming soon! Face, neck, chest, arms, hands Improves skin tone and texture, and gives your skin a more radiant, youthful glow

Ultherapy is a new and effective non-invasive alternative to a face-lift, with virtually no down-time. It is the only FDA-approved device that allows the provider to see an image of the layers of the skin in order to direct the ultrasound waves at the exact precise depth needed to cause neocollagenesis. This collagen growth will lift and tighten your face, neck, or chest. It really works! The price for Ultherapy usually runs anywhere from $750 to $3500 depending on the area treated. View more

Liposonix can help get rid of those exercise resistant fatty deposits by fully destroying the fat cells! Never to return again—once the fat cells are gone—they are gone forever. Liposonix uses HIFU Ultrasound waves at a specific depth and frequency with a unique large tip to accomplish this cell destruction. The price ranges from $500 to $3500 depending on the size of the area. View more

Botox & fillers are a great way to soften wrinkles and/or add volume to help you look younger. Botox is a purified protein that decreases muscle movement, which essentially gives you wrinkle free time. Fillers are used to add volume in areas such as the cheeks or lips and to help soften creases. They are also a terrific complement to your Ultherapy treatment. Use these spot treatments any time after Ultherapy and at least one month or two (see chart) before your special occasion. The average price ranges from as little as $250 and up to $1000, or more depending on what is needed. View more

IPL/BBL uses multiple light beams and wave lengths to target the problem areas. Both devices diminish brown spots, freckles, redness, veins, rosacea, sun damage and more. They are also terrific anti-aging treatments! They work at a cellular level and physically make the skin cells healthier. If your skin is healthier at a cellular level, then it acts looks and feels younger. Look up Forever Young BBL for more info. View more

As a nurse who has worked with lasers, fillers and injections for 11 years, I have helped many people plan and get ready for their special day and I would like to help you too! There is so much more to tell you when it comes to our fabulous no-downtime treatments, but space is limited. If you are looking forward to an important event, please book a FREE consultation (with me, Cheryl the Laser Queen) and I can help create your beauty plan for your special day!


Welcome the New Halo Laser!

Welcome the Halo Laser to our Renton Clinic!
Pacific Dermatology & Cosmetic Center is happy to announce the newest arrival to our state-of-art laser suite. 

Limited Time...Pick one of the packages below for an exclusive offer that ends June 15 and be the first to get your Halo Glow!


Package 1: Purchase one treatment area of your choice and receive the second treatment 50% OFF

 

(Savings of up to $750) 

Package 2: Purchase any treatment area and receive chest, neck or hands for FREE 

(Savings of up to $750) 

RESTORE YOUR GLOW WITH HALO 

Over time, your skin can lose its youthful glow. Halo eliminates years of damage by precisely targeting the right depth. Halo restores the luminous glow you had when you were younger with minimal downtime.

Halo precisely targets years of damage to your skin, including: Discoloration, Sun damage, Visible signs of aging, Uneven skin tone, Enlarged pores, Poor texture, Fine lines, Scar revision 

BE YOUR OWN KIND OF BEAUTIFUL
Everyone's skin is different. Everyone's needs are different. Halo allows Dr. Erica Linnell to customize your treatment to the downtime you have available and the results you want. Need to be back at work tomorrow? A light treatment creates silky smooth, vibrant skin that's ready for makeup the next day. Want to wow them? A more aggressive treatment will give your skin a deep youthful glow with just a few days of downtime. Ask Dr. Linnell today about the Halo Glow.
BEFORE & AFTER

Filler or Ultherapy for "crow's feet"?

I have had 10 injections of Artefill and I'm not seeing a huge difference. Along with "crow's feet" I am concerned with my lower face. I am wondering if Ulthera may be a better choice for me. - C
Thank you for your inquiry from RealSelf.
First, I am not really a fan of Artefill. The way it is used now is better – but it does have some very real serious reactions that can occur – even years after having the injections. SO – that biases me a bit. Ulthera may be a great choice for you if you are seeing early to “middle” signs of aging. I always tailor my recommendations to each individual based on how their face may be aging and also what their personal concerns are and, of course, the pocket book.
For crow’s feet – the mainstay of treatment is Botox, however, filler (Belotero) and Ultherapy can be used to improve this area as well.
So – the very best thing would be for you to come in for a consultation with me and we can see what will work best for you. Please call 206-859-5777 to schedule a cosmetic consult. Be sure to mention RealSelf and the $80 consult fee is waived.
Thank you again.
Dr Reichel
Jennifer Reichel MD
Director, Pacific Dermatology & Cosmetic Center
pacificderm.wpengine.com

11011 Meridian Avenue N Suite 102
Seattle WA 98133
phone: 206-859-5777
fax: 206-859-5776


Treatment for Large Pores

What can I do about large pores on my face?

-B

Dear B:

Large pore size is a very common complaint in my clinic.  Unfortunately, pore size is relatively unchangeable.  Pores can actually enlarge with time with the loss of elasticity in the skin as well as sun damage.  The good news is that there are many treatments that can help reduce the appearance of your pores.

First and foremost, I always recommend a prescription retinoid cream for nightly use.  Retinoid creams (i.e. Retin-A, Atralin, Tazorac, Differin) help keep your pores unclogged and therefore they appear to be smaller.  Another helpful tool is the Clarisonic Pro- this will work synergistically with the retinoid cream to keep those pores as clean and clear as possible.

If you’re still unhappy with your pore size after initiating the appropriate topical treatments, there are some laser treatments that may help.  The Fraxel laser is used for acne scarring, scarring, brown spots (hyperpigmentation) and can also help with pore size in some cases.

So, don’t despair- there are some options to reduce the appearance of pores.  We’re always happy to see you in consultation in Renton or Northgate.

Erica Linnell, MD

Pacific Dermatology and Cosmetic Center

Renton, WA

pacificderm.wpengine.com

 

 


Treating brown spots on Asian skin

Are lasers to treat brown spots on Asian skin safe? -K

Dear K:

Asian skin is more susceptible to scarring and discoloration after laser treatments.  That being said, there are absolutely some great treatments for hyperpigmentation of Asian skin- a very common complaint.First and foremost you must always wear sunscreen with SPF 30 or above.  Remember to re-apply every couple of hours if out in the sun.  If possible, wear a broad brimmed hat and sunglasses.Secondly I recommend a series of in-office chemical peels and prescription lightening creams (the Obagi NuDerm System is an outstanding at home treatment for pigmentation).  If these treatments are inadequate, laser treatments are an option.  The laser used would depend on the type of pigment that you have (superficial pigment vs deeper hyperpigmentation).  In my Asian patients I typically use more conservative settings initially and gradually increase the settings if tolerated.  The IPL device (intense pulsed light) is good for superficial pigment.  The Fraxel laser (using the 1927 wavelength) is also excellent for more stubborn pigment.Please schedule a consultation with us at Pacific Dermatology and Cosmetic Center here in Renton so we can determine the best treatment for you!

Erica Linnell, MD

Pacific Dermatology and Cosmetic Center, Renton, WA

pacificderm.wpengine.com


Nonsurgical treatment to tighten loose skin

I am 67 with pretty good skin and I want to tighten my skin, if possible, and my neck, with a nonsurgical treatment. I have read about Ulthera and would try this if it is effective on older skin. Please reply. Thank you, C

Hi C,

Thanks for your question. Ulthera can be effective on older skin. It is an ultrasound, non-invasive, tightening device and can be used on all skin types. It would be important to see you in person so that we can do a consultation to decide if it is a good option for you. I definitely believe in face-lifts and I am very honest with patients about whether they are in the right category to do a surgical procedure. Most women are ready for a face-lift between the ages of 55 and 70 (but everyone varies). At 67, you may have only mildly loose skin and could be a great candidate for Ultherapy. I am starting to recommend a series of 2 treatments to some patients. I like to space them about 6 months apart, and we bundle the price so that it is less expensive for the 2nd treatment. So, I guess the bottom line, is that yes, you might be a candidate for a non-invasive procedure. Please feel free to call for a consultation. The $80 consult fee is waived when you find me via RealSelf. You can call 206-859-5777.

Thanks.

Dr. Reichel

Jennifer Reichel MD

Director, Pacific Dermatology & Cosmetic Center

11011 Meridian Ave N Ste 102

Seattle WA, 98133

206-859-5777

pacificderm.wpengine.com


Treatment for fines lines from tanning beds

Im 21, I have fine lines around my eyes and smile lines near my mouth from years of tanning in tanning beds. I also have comedonal acne. I'm looking for the best package available to help erase what I did to my skin.

-A

 

Hi A,

Thank you for the email inquiry. Ah yes – tanning beds and too much sun can lead to early lines and aging. Of course, my first piece of advice would be to be sure that you are not tanning anymore. I hope not. I tell my patients that I have a “zero tolerance policy” for sun exposure to the face, neck, and chest. It’s the best way to stay looking young. The good news, is that if you start now while you are still young, the effects of the tanning beds will start to get better.

OK – so what can you do. 1. I would love to see you in person for a consultation so that we can look at your face and decide what the best treatment is. At your age, it may just be topical medicines (like Retin-A). However, if you have “static” lines on your face ( meaning lines that are there when you are not making an expression), then it may be the right time to start doing a little bit of Botox. That is the mainstay for wrinkles and a definite MUST to keep you looking young. We may also want to think of trying some chemical peels for you. We can address your acne as well.

Please either email back (and include Melissa, my receptionist) to schedule an appointment, or call at 206-859-5777. Remember the consultation with me is free (80$ value) since you found me on RealSelf.

Thanks. I look forward to seeing you.

Dr. Reichel

Seattle Cosmetic Dermatologist and Mohs Surgeon

 

Jennifer Reichel MD

Director, Pacific Dermatology & Cosmetic Center

11011 Meridian Ave N Ste 102

Seattle WA, 98133

 

206-859-5777

pacificderm.wpengine.com

 


Is Excess Fat Aging You?

Excess fat in the face, especially around the eyes, jaw and neck can cause common problems like bulges, lack of definition and a double chin, which can cause you to look older than you actually are. If you are seeing too much facial fat in a certain area, you may need a combination of procedures that can help improve your problem areas.

Is facial fat making you look older? Too much facial fat can cause:

1. Under-Eye Bags

Larger fat pockets make bulging under-eyes prominent
An abundance of fat can negatively affect the area under the eyes. This is not usually related to weight but since an increase of fat under the eyes can cause the fat pockets to bulge, they can appear more prominent. Removal of bulging orbital fat and excess skin from below the eye can improve the aged appearance and "bags" under the eyes.

Dr. Reichel does lower lid blepharoplasty via the transconjunctival approach. During her cosmetic and skin cancer fellowship, Dr. Reichel trained with the leading oculoplastic and facial plastic surgeons to learn this technique. A consultation with Dr. Reichel would be needed to determine if this is the right procedure for you.

2. A Soft Jawline

Increased fat causes a saggy appearance in the jowls
Excess fat around the jowls can cause them to appear soft, like they are hanging over the jawline.

3. A Double Chin

Excess fat leads to loss of definition
The area under the chin is an area where superficial fat, the layer of fat under the skin, tends to accumulate excessively, giving way to a double chin. Fat under the chin may be hereditary. Some patients even notice a double chin early in life.

4. A Turkey Neck

Fat deposits result in an undefined facial contour.
With age, an increase of fat in the neck is actually quite common. When there is too much fat in the neck, it’s normal to see too much fat in the chin also.

For unwanted extra fatty tissue in the chin and neck area, Seattle based, Dr. Jennifer Reichel, will often times recommend jaw-line and neck liposuction. “I always want to see my patients in for an initial cosmetic consultation if they are concerned with their neck or jaw-line. The treatment options vary all the way from needing a surgical face-lift, to liposuction, or even a skin tightening device like the new Ultherapy.” Dr Reichel will tailor each individual patients treatment options based on their concerns and needs.

Dr Reichel lectures nationally on liposuction and body contouring techniques as well as “How To Do the Best Cosmetic Consultation”. She has been performing liposuction for more than 8 years with fabulous results.

Call Pacific Dermatology & Cosmetic Center at 206.859.5777 to schedule your free liposuction consultation!


Does Your Neck Need Special Anti-Aging attention?

There is a cream for everything these days. From your under eyes to your feet—no area of the body has been neglected by beauty brands looking to sell you a new way to look your best. But do all these areas actually need their own skin-care regimen? We wanted to know, especially when it comes to the neck—a lesser-known area of the body that can really tattle tale our true age.

Anti-aging creams and serums designed specifically for the neck are popping up everywhere, and it's true that this area and the décolletage are commonly neglected areas of the body when it comes to maintenance and care. "One of the largest mistakes I see women make in their skin-care regimens is neglect of the neck and upper chest," says Dr. Jennifer Reichel of Pacific Dermatology & Cosmetic Center. And it turns out, the neck is just as susceptible to damage and aging as the face. "Over the course of a lifetime, necks and chests are exposed to as much UV light as faces, but don't get the same good consistent skin care routine that most women establish for their faces," she says.

Over time, neglect of the neck leads to mottled red and brown pigmentation with sagging and wrinkling of the skin. But that doesn't mean you have to run out and purchase a cream designed specifically for the skin of the neck if you already have one for your face.

"In general women do not need specific different products for their necks/upper chests, but it is important to remember that this can often be more sensitive skin (thinner with fewer oil glands) that can become irritated more easily by aggressive topical products," says Dr. Reichel.

That means that the best rule of thumb for neck care is to give it the same treatment you give your face. When exfoliating or applying moisturizer, don’t stop at your jawline. Antioxidant protection and sunscreen are of utmost importance as well. "I encourage my patients to think of their neck as an extension of their face to ensure it gets the benefit of daily sunscreen and other skin maintenance products; we are big fans of Skinceuticals A.G.E. Interrupter as well as their vast line of zinc-oxide sunscreens." she says.

And if you have neglected your neck over the years, it's not too late to reverse the sagging and wrinkling. When treated early, neck wrinkles can be softened with neurotoxin injections, such as Botox, to help release constricting muscles. Slack skin on the neck can also be treated with Ultherapy, this FDA-cleared device used in the procedure utilizes the safe, time-tested energy of ultrasound to stimulate the deep structural support layers of the skin.

If the wrinkling and sagging is really bothering you, Seattle Dermatologist Jennifer Reichel, says you "can tighten the skin using nonsurgical treatments such as Fraxel Dual or Fractional CO2."  Call our office to schedule your consultation, and get the results you've always wanted.


3 Non-Surgical Ways to Rejuvenate the Face

Credit: Thinkstock

When you want to look and feel younger, your face is the front and center battleground of that fight. And while there are a few ways to surgically make the face look years younger (facelift, neck lift, nose job), many women might not be ready for the commitment or cost of a surgical procedure. If not, there are "best practices" for rejuvenating the face without reaching for the scalpel. We went to the experts to find out what they individually believe are the best treatments to get a younger face without surgery.

Seattle, WA, dermatologist Jennifer Reichel, MD, says first and foremost, start with a good skin-care routine. "Routine skin care by trained, experienced aestheticians is invaluable in producing, improving and monitoring the skin. Let's face it—beautiful skin always creates a more youthful look. A comprehensive skin-care program that may include professional products and treatments (like facial peels and photo facials) can minimize sun damage, soften fine lines, reduce acne, rehydrate dry skin and brighten dull, aging skin."

If you want to take it one step further, there are more options available to make the face look younger. Seattle Dermatologist Jennifer Reichel, MD, says before finding the best method for facial rejuvenation, your doctor has to take into account the age demographic of the patient. "When they are younger, we’re getting rid of wrinkles with products like Botox and hyaluronic acid fillers such as Restylane and Juvéderm. For restoring more volume [in older patients] we like Radiesse. If the patient needs more volume, we like to use the patient’s own fat and stem cells as fillers," this is called fat harvesting or fat transfer.

Dr. Reichel also says, noninvasive radio-frequency treatments, on the right patient, can work wonders: "We’re fans of Ultherapy,a new type of non-surgical, non-invasive procedure for the face and body that uses ultrasound and the body’s own natural healing process to lift, tone, and tighten loose skin.. I think you can also count Fractional CO2 in this area. It is an ablative laser, but it’s not as invasive as making incisions. It is a very effective tool in treating fine lines, irregularities and brown spots."

The physicians and skin care specialists at Pacific Dermatology & Cosmetic Center are a dedicated team with expertise in medical dermatology, Mohs skin cancer surgery, and aesthetic surgery. Dr. Reichel and her wonderful staff are committed to excellence in patient care.  Call us today to schedule your cosmetic consultation or medical dermatological appointment, 206.859.5777, we look forward to meeting you,


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