Newsletter January 2010 – Botox Brow Lift

What is Botox Brow Lift?

In a never ending effort to keep our patients and potential patients ahead of the market for cosmetic services, we bring you this month an overview of a Botox procedure called the Botox brow lift. While Botox is only FDA approved for use between the eyes, with increased use, it has developed into a tool for treating many areas of the face. In this case, the Botox brow lift is an excellent alternative to those that want a little lift to the eyelids but are not prepared to go the surgical route just yet.

The purpose of the Botox Brow Lift is to give tired eyes a rest. Many of our patients that are not ready for surgery, but that notice a definite change in the appearance of their eyes look for a way to decrease the “tired” appearance caused by saggy or heavy eyebrows. The Botox browlift is designed to lift and open the eyelid, making the eyes appear less tired.

More About Botox Injections

Botox Brow Lift Before PicturesBotox Brow Lift After Pictures

Botox Brow Lift Before and After Pictures

The Botox Brow Lift is accomplished by relaxing those muscles in the forehead and upper (and outer) eye area that pull downward on the brow. By relaxing “depressor” muscles – the ones that pull downward on the brow – the muscles that pull upward can take over. When this happens, the brow lifts slightly and the eyes appear more open and full.

At Celibre, we focus on patient education. We want our patients to understand and participate in the decisions that make up their care plan. To this end, our knowledgeable medical staff are here to help you understand the benefits and risks of our Botox Injections.

Our team would be pleased to offer a complimentary consultation to address your skin care goals. A good starting place is to gather information and view before and after photos of Celibre patients in our photo gallery.

At Celibre, we stay at the forefront of research and best practices so that we may offer the most appropriate and effective treatment plans for our valued patients. Please give us a call to learn more about Botox injections.


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Aesthetic Treatments for the Holidays

As the holiday season approaches, it’s normal to think about how to look our best for parties, dinners and other social events. Concerns about one’s appearance that may have taken a back seat during the busy summer months often become more pressing around this time of year.

With that in mind, here are several package treatments at Celibre that are sure to help you get ready to look your best during the holidays.

The Snowflake Holiday Package – 2 Vials of Latisse for longer lashes, $200. $40 Savings.

The Wreath Holiday Package – Latisse, Botox – 2 Vials of Latisse for lashes and 20 units of Botox, $400. $80 Savings.

The Garland Holiday Package – Latisse, Botox, Dermal Fillers – 2 Vials of Latisse for longer lashes, 20 units of Botox and 1 syringe of Restylane or Juvederm, $850. $130 Savings.

The Mistletoe Holiday Package – Latisse, Botox, Dermal Fillers, Lasers – 2 Vials of Latisse for longer lashes, 20 units of Botox, 1 Syringe of Restylane or Juvederm and 3 laser treatments (facial or hand) for sun damage – $1,900. $280 Savings.

Latisse Eyelash Enhancing Product.

Brought to you by Allergan, the manufacturer of Botox Cosmetic, Latisse is the first FDA-approved product that not only lengthens eyelashes, it darkens and thickens them as well. Off label, this product may also be used for eyebrows. Starting Latisse now will lead to long, full lashes within 8 to 9 weeks.

Latisse After Picture

Botox Cosmetic & Dysport

Most consumers have a basic understanding of Botox & Dysport (new competitor to Botox), but many don’t realize the many ways these products are used to provide a more refreshed, youthful appearance within 48 hours of injection. Because results typically last 3 to 4 months, starting now is perfect timing for the holiday season.


Botox Before PictureBotox After Picture

Juvederm, Perlane, Restylane (Dermal Fillers)

Dermal fillers are excellent products when it comes to shaping the face. As we age, the face changes. Dermal fillers provide volume, support, and structure, restoring a youthful appearance. Visit our website to view injection techniques and before and after pictures of dermal filler injections. And check out one of our newest procedures! Hand rejuvenation – which offers immediate results.

Restylane Before PictureRestylane After Picture

Brown Spots & Discoloration

Whether these concerns are on the face, chest, or hands, all of these conditions are effectively treated with our no downtime Class IV medical lasers which are safe for all skin types. Treatments usually are between 2 to 4 weeks apart and have no social downtime involved. By starting now, most patients will reach or be within reach of their goals by the Holidays.

sun spots Before Picturesun spots After Picture

At Celibre, we focus on patient education. We want our patients to understand and participate in the decisions that make up their care plan. To this end, our knowledgeable medical staff are here to help you weigh the benefits and risks of our Laser treatments.

Our team would be pleased to offer a complimentary consultation to address your skin care goals. A good starting place is to gather information and view before and after photos of Celibre patients in our photo gallery.

At Celibre, we stay at the forefront of research and best practices so that we may offer the most appropriate and effective injections and laser treatment plans for our valued patients. Please give us a call to learn more about laser treatments and injections.


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As seen on “Addicted to Beauty” TV, Restylane & Latisse

We often hear questions from our patients about topics they hear about on popular television shows such as “Addicted to Beauty” and “E! Entertainment”. These shows are great at getting consumers interested in beauty products, services and new treatments but not necessarily so good at helping the consumer know which treatments and products work well. For this reason, the number one question our patients ask after seeing these shows is, “does that treatment/product really work?” At Celibre we pride ourselves on being at the forefront of cosmetic research so that we may offer you a balanced view to distinguish between a fad and a new treatment that actually works well.

With that said, you may be wondering about the term “Tear Troughs” for the eyes. This is not a well-known procedure but is quickly gaining popularity. This procedure was profiled on a recent episode of “Addicted to Beauty”. A Tear Trough procedure involves using a small amount of cosmetic dermal filler (for example Restylane) strategically placed under the eye in the hollow areas where we see “dark circles”. This 30 minute treatment results in immediate, dramatic results in adding volume and may also improve the laxity (sagginess) of the skin in this area. Results typically last from six to nine months with very little discomfort.

Restylane for Dark Circles

Restylane tear trough Before PictureRestylane tear trough After Picture

Schedule a Free Consultation for Tear Trough Injections.

The second topic that has been generating much media attention is the first FDA-approved eyelash enhancer product called Latisse. We have been offering this product for the last couple of months with excellent results for employees and patients alike. This product not only lengthens lashes, it darkens and thickens lashes as well. Some patients have even seen benefits in using Latisse in the eyebrow area as well. Several of our employees have their before/after photos readily available to view.

Latisse for Longer Eyelashes

Schedule a Free Consultation for Latisse

At Celibre, we focus on patient education. We want our patients to understand and participate in the decisions that make up their care plan. To this end, our knowledgeable medical staff are here to help you weigh the benefits and risks of our Laser treatments.

Our team would be pleased to offer a complimentary consultation to address your skin care goals. A good starting place is to gather information and view before and after photos of Celibre patients in our photo gallery.

At Celibre, we stay at the forefront of research and best practices so that we may offer the most appropriate and effective injections and laser treatment plans for our valued patients. Please give us a call to learn more about laser treatments and injections.


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Injection Treatments –
Why using too little product is a mistake

When using cosmetic dermal fillers (ex: Restylane, Juvederm, Perlane), an important part of the recipe in designing a treatment plan is reaching for the right product and using the right amount. In a difficult economy, it’s understandable that we need to work within your budget. However, to under-dose or under-treat an area in an attempt to save money will only prove disappointing for you as a patient. It’s always better to provide the necessary amount of injection product (or not inject at all) rather than under-dosing, which leads to less than acceptable results.

Art of Facial Shaping


Restylane After Picture

Schedule a Free Consultation for Injection Treatments.

We like to encourage patients to consider the long-term benefits of using the correct amount of dermal filler. Besides being able to have improved outcomes through the action of the product, longevity of the treatment is extended as well. For example, if a patient has moderate laugh lines but only wants to invest in one syringe, they most likely will see noticeable improvement. However, by using more product for full correction and support, the results will be more dramatic and improve longevity of outcomes (in some cases an extra 3-12 months). In the end, this proves to be a much better financial benefit with a much happier patient.

Medicis, the manufacturer of Restylane & Perlane, recently added another option to their menu of products. For the first time, we now have the option of a 2 ml syringe of Restylane. This benefits the patient that has a need for more volumizing or is interested in having more than one area treated. Instead of having to use two separate 1 ml syringes, the cost savings of using one, 2 ml syringe is passed onto the patient. In the past, the cost for two 1 ml syringes of Restylane was $1,000. Now it is only $850 with the new sized syringe. In addition, Medicis also provides a .4 cc syringe of Restylane. This allows us additional flexibility in tailoring the right recipe for each patient to meet their goals and still work within their budget.

In summary, we encourage our patients to consider the long-term results rather than just the short term cost when designing a treatment plan. By investing a little bit more in the beginning, you will gain financially in the end, and your results will be superior. This makes for satisfied patients – which is what we care about most.

At Celibre, we focus on patient education. We want our patients to understand and participate in the decisions that make up their care plan. To this end, our knowledgeable medical staff are here to help you weigh the benefits and risks of our Laser treatments.

Our team would be pleased to offer a complimentary consultation to address your skin care goals. A good starting place is to gather information and view before and after photos of Celibre patients in our photo gallery.

At Celibre, we stay at the forefront of research and best practices so that we may offer the most appropriate and effective injections and laser treatment plans for our valued patients. Please give us a call to learn more about laser treatments and injections.


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Mesotherapy, Lipodissolve, Cellulite Reduction
& Skin Tightening

What do all of the treatments above have in common? These are treatments that we refuse to provide our patients at Celibre Medical.

In the ever changing world of cosmetic dermatology there always seems to be a new “latest and greatest” treatment. While it can sometimes be enticing to add new services to our practice, we refuse to do so unless we are confident that the new service will be safe and effective for our patients.

The practice of medicine is not a perfect science. While we would love for all of our patients to get perfect results, we know that this is not always the case. The average patient satisfaction rate in our industry is approximately 60%. Because we do not consider our practice average, we set our patient satisfaction rate is 80% (as measured by your patient surveys) and this is the hurdle we evaluate when considering adding new treatments. If we do not believe that we can achieve an 80% patient satisfaction rate for a new service, we will not add it. For Mesotherapy, Lipodissolve, Cellulite Reduction and Skin Tightening, we do not believe we would be able to achieve this level of patient satisfaction.

Patient satisfaction is dependent on a number of factors including consistent, reproducible results. While we believe that there may be some benefit for treatments involving Mesotherapy, Lipodissolve, Cellulite Reduction and Skin Tightening, we do not believe that the results achieved for these types of treatments are consistent and reproducible enough to warrant integrating them into our practice.

We encourage healthy debate with our peers on the subject of these treatments. We also participate in trade shows and workshops that teach them. But, more often than not, what helps us make our decisions about whether or not to offer a new service is feedback that comes directly from our patients. Many of our Celibre Medical patients have undergone these procedures and have let us know of their dissatisfaction. In addition, because of our involvement with a consumer based website www.realself.com that provides information on cosmetic treatments, we have learned that these treatments have some of the lowest patient satisfaction rates in our industry. Click on the links below to read more about Mesotherapy, Lipodissolve, Cellulite Reduction and Skin Tightening at www.realself.com.

Mesotherapy- 52% Patient Satisfaction

Lipodissolve – 32% Patient Satisfaction

Cellulite – 29% Patient Satisfaction

Skin Tightening – 33% Patient Satisfaction

At Celibre, we focus on patient education. We want our patients to understand and participate in the decisions that make up their care plan. To this end, our knowledgeable medical staff are here to help you weigh the benefits and risks of our Laser treatments.

Our team would be pleased to offer a complimentary consultation to address your skin care goals. A good starting place is to gather information and view before and after photos of Celibre patients in our photo gallery.

At Celibre, we stay at the forefront of research and best practices so that we may offer the most appropriate and effective injections and laser treatment plans for our valued patients. Please give us a call to learn more about laser treatments and injections.


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Advancements in Melasma Treatment

With summer approaching, we believe it’s an important time of year to profile one of the most difficult conditions we treat at Celibre – melasma. Melasma is a stubborn skin condition that causes brown facial discoloration. The pigment visible in melasma is hormonally generated and the condition is often present in pregnant women, those on oral contraceptives, or perimenopausal women.

Because melasma is considered chronic (meaning there is no cure), it is a very emotional condition. Very often, we evaluate potential patients that have been disappointed with previous treatment programs or may have experienced good outcomes only to have the melasma return. Even when a melasma patient has good results from treatment, without proper day to day management, it will most likely return. We educate our patients and consumers alike that the goal of any melasma treatment plan should be improvement (not cure) and effective control.

More About Melasma Treatment

Another very common statement we hear is that hydroquinone (HQ), a bleaching agent commonly used for facial discoloration, did not work for them. While it is true that most products for melasma contain hydroquinone, it is the combination of other active ingredients that sets one treatment plan apart from another. HQ comes in various concentrations. This causes confusion because the % of HQ that might not work for one individual may for another. At Celibre, both of our topical treatment programs for melasma contain HQ in prescription strengths (4% – 8%) which are far different than those HQ products purchased over the counter (2%). Our products also contain various other active ingredients to aid the depigmentation such as retinoids, Kojic Acid, and Bearberry Acid. At Celibre, we promote an individualized treatment plan for each patient. In doing so, we take into consideration their experience with other treatment plans, their response, and any potential negative side effects. It is the “recipe” that makes all the difference.

We are often asked why we do not use laser treatments for Melasma. The reason is simple – in many cases, the Melasma gets worse when lasers are used. Laser treatments are most effective at removing pigment that lies near the surface of the skin. In most cases, Melasma originates in the lower layers of skin so reaching this deeper pigment with lasers is difficult. And, in some cases treating Melasma with lasers will make it darker. Almost every case of Melasma we seen at our office that was treated elsewhere with lasers or IPL is darker than it was before the laser treatment.

Over the past 18 months, we have spent much time and effort evaluating new products for Melasma and even changing the way we use the existing products, and we are excited about the progress we have made. Currently, we use two programs for the treatment of Melasma. The first is Cosmelan MD. Cosmelan has been used by our practice for the past several years, but some recent changes in the product have made it more effective for us than earlier versions. We also have a depigmentation formulation that was developed in conjunction with a pharmaceutical company. This product, the Celibre Depigmentation Program, is also very effective at treating Melasma. The reason we use more than one program is that not all patients respond the same to each treatment, and what may work for one, may not work for another, so it’s best to have more than one choice.

At Celibre, we focus on patient education. We want our patients to understand and participate in the decisions that make up their care plan. To this end, our knowledgeable medical staff are here to help you weigh the benefits and risks of our Laser treatments.

Our team would be pleased to offer a complimentary consultation to address your skin care goals. A good starting place is to gather information and view before and after photos of Celibre patients in our photo gallery.

At Celibre, we stay at the forefront of research and best practices so that we may offer the most appropriate and effective injections and laser treatment plans for our valued patients. Please give us a call to learn more about laser treatments and injections.


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Are My Cosmetic Laser Treatments Safe?

As cosmetic laser skin care procedures become increasingly more popular, it’s not surprising if you’ve heard from a friend about negative outcomes. Many prospective patients aren’t aware of how aesthetic medicine (lasers, injectables, fat & cellulite treatments, etc.) is regulated or who is qualified to carry out these treatments. Although technology is developing rapidly to keep pace with consumer demand, legislation and regulation to protect consumers has not kept up.

Although regulations vary from state to state, there are very few states that have that have managed to keep up with the changes. On one end of the spectrum, some states dictate that only a physician may operate Class IV medical lasers like the ones used at Celibre Medical. On the other end of the spectrum some states are silent on the matter and have no existing regulations.

California currently dictates that only a licensed medical professional with a registered nurse license or higher (nurse practitioner, physician assistant, or physician as well) may perform treatments with class IV medical lasers. More specifically, anyone who is not a physician (the majority of those doing treatments) must be supervised by a Physician and must work under what is referred to as Standardized Procedures and Protocols.

Celibre’s Laser Treatments Service List

Laser Hair Removal Before PictureLaser Hair Removal Cosmetic Laser Treatments

Laser Treatments Before and After Pictures

Choose Celibre Medical: Safe, Skilled, Trusted

So why do we highlight this issue and what does this mean for Celibre Medical patients? Not only have we been in complete compliance with state regulations at all times, but we have consistently gone above and beyond all current safety requirements and regulations. For instance, Dr. Harold Kaplan, is very much involved in the practice and is accessible at all times, which is not the case with many “medical spas” in Los Angeles. We are a provider of continuing education for the Board of Registered Nursing and we train registered nurses and physicians on the safe use of Class IV medical lasers.

Our nursing staff goes through a rigorous training program as well as having a minimum of two years experience within a critical care setting. Our organization has trained and certified two Certified Medical Laser Safety Officers (2 of only several hundred in the US) in laser physics and safety, and we take pride in having them. We also have a Nurse Educator to provide training and education to staff and consumers while staying on the forefront of research into new procedures.

Protecting Your Appearance: Safety, Experience, Efficacy

We encourage our patients to advocate for themselves by focusing on safety, experience and efficacy when evaluating different facilities for their treatments. Patients should know who is performing their treatments, how much experience they have and what the facility training requirements are. Being an educated consumer is an excellent way to protect one of your most valued assets – your appearance.

Restoring Volume with Injectable Fillers

It is not uncommon for us to hear our patients express concern over the realization that subtle changes are taking place in their face but at the same time not being able to pinpoint exactly what’s different.

Although many are aware that changes are occurring, they aren’t quite sure how to address these changes. One of the changes we see most often in our patients is the loss of “volume” or thinning of the fatty (lower) layer of the skin. This phenomenon can cause a saggy or loose looking skin and is often the reason noted by those considering a facelift. Although surgery is an excellent route for many, most of our patients are now using injectable treatments as a way to put off or avoid a surgical procedure altogether. For many of these patients, pulling the skin tighter through surgical intervention leads to a tighter, “done” look without the associated restoration in volume that they are looking for.

More About Celibre Injectable Treatments

Injectable Fillers Before and After Pictures

When a person’s face ages, there can be a shift in the subcutaneous (deeper skin) tissue. This shifting combined with thinner skin leads to hollowness and skin laxity. The face becomes more angular and can have sharply defined borders. In addition, over time our musculature, combined with gravity, can pull the skin downward. The face can appear elongated with the mouth also losing definition and/or fullness. At Celibre, our experienced injectable practitioners promote a natural, appealing look to restore volume to the aging face with the use of FDA-approved cosmetic dermal fillers. Injectable fillers like Restylane, Juvederm and Perlane are composed of synthetic hyaluronic acid – a natural substance found in all of our bodies. Hyaluronic acid fillers are superior products for adding volume because they can absorb 1000X their weight in water once injected. This results in a subtle, but noticeable, improvement in the situations where volume has been lost. In addition, research shows that consistent use of injectable fillers results in the natural production of new collagen, a good thing for skin health! We have chosen three HA products for our use based upon reliability, safety, effectiveness, affordability, and consistent outcomes.

Schedule a Free Consultation for Injectable Fillers

Juvederm & Restylane. These two HA fillers are from different manufacturers. They are both quality products and can be used for restoring volume to the mouth, hollows of the lower eye area (tear trough), laugh lines (nasolabial folds), as well as numerous other areas to shape and volumize the face. Benefits will be maintained for 4 to 6 months.

Perlane. Although Perlane is an HA fillers like Restylane and Juvederm, it is designed for deeper placement where there is more of a need for volume, structure, and support. The product varies slightly by having the ability to draw more water to the treated area and typically lasts a bit longer – anywhere from 6 to 9 months. It can be considered it the more robust version of Restylane. The most commonly treated area is the cheek, where it is used to fill the hollows and redefine the structure in this area.

Using a combination of these 3 products is commonplace depending on our patient’s concerns and goals. Our belief is that these cosmetic treatments should not make you look different or “done” but rather to help you look like yourself again. A refreshed appearance is how we like to describe it.


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How is Brown Discoloration Treated?

Brown discoloration can appear anywhere on the body and comes in the form of freckles (ephelides), sun spots (solar lentigines), flat moles (nevi), birthmarks, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (related to trauma or constant irritation of the skin), older, mature stretch marks, Seborrheic Keratosis, brown acne scarring, and last, but certainly not least, the hormonally generated pigmentation known as Melasma.

More About Age Spots, Melasma, Etc.

age spot removal Before Picturesage spot removal After Pictures

Age Spots, Melasma, Etc. Before and After Pictures

Although many of these skin conditions fall into the broad category of “pigmented lesions,” they may be treated in very different ways based on your goals, skin type, whether or not they may have downtime, and which treatment type offers the best outcomes. At Celibre, we only utilize treatment programs that have offered predictable, consistent outcomes based upon in-house trials and in depth research.

For light to medium skin tones, we use the Erbium MicroLaserPeel for those wanting the quickest, most dramatic results for overall facial discoloration. For those that do not want downtime or have very dark skin (African American), we offer Q-switched technology. Q-switched lasers are the “gold standard” for removing a variety of pigmented lesions and at Celibre we have two different types of q-switched lasers. Because these lasers are designed to be attracted to melanocytes (the cells that hold the color), they are ideal for any type of pigmented lesion. We are often asked about the difference between q-switched lasers and IPL machines. Q-switched lasers are more effective than IPL treatments because these lasers use far higher energies than an IPL machine can achieve. For example, an IPL cannot remove birthmarks, which can be treated effectively with q-switched lasers. The higher energies that q-switched lasers achieve allow us to permanently remove lesions like sun spots and freckles rather than getting temporary fading – as is the case with IPL treatments.

Q-switched lasers are not only an excellent choice for resolution of brown discoloration on the face, but are also used routinely for the neck, chest, extremities, back, and hands. Research and our own experience also supports that these lasers also stimulate collagen production which leads to improved texture and mild skin tightening. For those patients that do not want laser treatments or are not appropriate for lasers, we offer two depigmentation programs that involve topical products.

At Celibre, we believe that no one particular treatment will fit all patients’ skin care goals and lifestyles. We strive to involve our patients the choice of treatment plan and offer as much education as possible so that they are able to understand and participate in their treatment program. It is because of our desire to tailor a treatment plan to each patient that we often combine treatment methods to obtain the best response. We stay at the forefront of research and best practices so that we may offer the most appropriate and effective treatment plans for our valued patients. Please give us a call at 800-897-8489 to learn more about pigmentation treatments.


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How Does Laser Stretch Mark Removal Work?

Stretch marks, unfortunately, are a very common problem for patients of all ages and both sexes. Whether the stretch marks are related to growth, weight changes, increase in muscle mass, or pregnancy, they can lead to much concern and discouragement on the part of the patient. Stretch marks can occur on the breasts, arms, abdomen, hips, low back, and legs. Stretch marks also come in different colors such as red, brown, or hypopigmented (meaning loss of pigment and now appearing lighter than one’s natural skin tone). Hypopigmented stretch marks represent quite a challenge because they usually are more mature, whereas red lesions usually represent those that are less than one year old. Despite the color, most stretch marks are treatable, but the key is the right treatment plan and realistic expectations.

What causes stretch marks? Stretch marks are caused by damage to the dermis from over-stretching of the collagen and elastin fibers – causing a tear in the tissue. There is recent speculation that a change in hormonal levels may contribute to someone being more prone to stretch marks. Genetics also play a part in whether you will get stretch marks or not. Almost always, there is little you can do to prevent stretch marks from occurring.

More About Laser Stretch Mark Removal


stretch mark removal Before Picturesstretch removal After Pictures

Stretch Mark Removal Before and After Pictures

Are stretch marks permanent? Unfortunately, yes. Anyone that claims they have a “cure” to get rid of stretch marks is not being ethical or factual. However, the color of the stretch mark may be dramatically improved if not resolved with the use of lasers and the texture of stretch marks can be improved as well.

Which color of stretch marks are treatable with lasers? All colors of stretch marks are treatable with class IV medical lasers. However, the hypopigmented stretch marks only respond to one kind of laser technology that encourages melanocytes-(the cells that hold color/pigment) from the surrounding areas to migrate to the areas that have lost color. This effect is temporary and requires several visits to reach one’s goals and then maintenance treatments to maintain the pigmentation (color).

What kind of expectations should I have for laser treatment of stretch marks? REALISTIC…A reputable facility/practitioner will set forth realistic goals. Most patients with stretch marks will indicate that they would be satisfied with just improvement. If it sounds too good to be true…as the saying goes…then maybe it is.

What should I ask during a consultation for laser treatment of stretch marks? Ask to see before and after photos of actual patients that represent the type of stretch marks you have. Be certain that the photos are not provided by the manufacturer of the laser. Share with the consultant what your goals are and what concerns you the most. Ask which lasers are recommended to treat your stretch marks and why. Ask how long the recommended treatment plan will take and, most importantly, do your research and come prepared with a good knowledge base.

Who is not a candidate for laser treatment of stretch marks? Those who do not have realistic expectations. Those who plan to have future pregnancies, or expected changes in growth or weight. Those who would benefit more from abdominoplasty (surgical intervention aka: tummy tuck). Please keep in mind that many women are advised that they are NOT candidates for a tummy tuck when they do not present with enough skin/tissue to accomplish this.

When should I consider laser treatment for stretch marks? Current research suggests that the newer the stretch marks – the better potential for improved outcomes with lasers.

At Celibre, we stay at the forefront of research and best practices so that we may offer the most appropriate and effective treatment plans for our valued patients. Please give us a call at 800-897-8489 to learn more about stretch mark treatments.


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Laser Hand Rejuvenation

The old saying “You can tell a woman’s age by her hands” is a concern for many of our patients – not just women. Often, we invest so much time and effort on our faces that we overlook our hands.

So why does the appearance of the hands change? One reason is the loss of fatty tissue. You may notice that the veins become ropey and visible as the skin becomes thinner as we age. It’s not that the blood vessels are becoming larger, but rather this change is the result of the loss of subcutaneous (fatty) tissue, collagen, and thinning of the epidermis. These changes in our skin allow the blood vessels to become much more visible.

Another common concern with aging hands is the discoloration that develops in response to sun exposure. Whether you call them “age”, liver”, or “sun” spots, brown pigmentation on the hands is very common for both men and women. We often hear our patients concerned and surprised over what appears to have developed over night. The repeated question about sun damage is, “Why now?” Although we may have taken measures to practice good skin care habits over the years, we often start seeing evidence of sun damage and the ageing process over a very short period of time. But the onset of these changes represents an accumulative effect of sun damage over many years.

More About Treatments for Sun Damage

laser hand rejuvenation Before and after Pictureslaser hand rejuvenation before and After Pictures

Sun Damage Before and After Pictures

Celibre Treatment Options. The term “hand rejuvenation” has become more commonplace recently. Rejuvenation can mean many things, but a common one is that some practitioners are now using injectable fillers to add volume to the hands under the epidermis. We currently do not offer this service because we have not been impressed with outcomes vs. the benefits and cost of the procedure. We feel that results are too temporary and unpredictable with the current techniques and injectable products to warrant offering this to our patients. On the other hand, if this newer procedure improves in the future, we will revisit this after thorough research and trials.

At Celibre, we only utilize treatments that we have demonstrated to ourselves to be safe, effective, and of value to our patients. Because medical/cosmetic lasers are our specialty, we are pleased to offer our Q-Switched laser technology that offers dramatic resolution of brown pigmentation to the hands as well as noticeable improvement in the texture of the skin. Our Palomar QYAG V and Medlite C6 lasers are the gold standard for this type of treatment not only for hands but all areas of the body. Treatments are very short without any downtime. These lasers are also very safe for all skin types.

Our team would be pleased to offer a complimentary consultation to address your skin care goals. A good starting place is to gather information and view before and after photos of Celibre patients in our photo gallery. Finally, when thinking sunscreen, don’t forget your hands!

At Celibre, we stay at the forefront of research and best practices so that we may offer the most appropriate and effective treatment plans for our valued patients. Please give us a call to learn more about hand rejuvenation and age spot removal.


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Tear Trough Injections –
Restylane for bags under the eyes

Have you recently found yourself saying, “my eyes don’t look the same anymore.” Investing in expensive creams and eye serums also may have left you disappointed. If you have noticed that the shape and appearance of your eyes are not the exactly the same anymore, it may actually be that the frame of the eyes has changed.

As we age, the eye region (periorbital area) begins to lose volume or the volume shifts and creates the appearance of bags. The skin loses its elasticity and oftentimes leads to a “crepey” look. Fine lines develop around the eye area in response to the strong muscle action of this muscle. This aging process may also lead to the appearance of darkening under eye eyes when the vascularity underneath becomes more transparent as volume is lost.

restylane injections before and After Pictures

Restylane Injections Before and After Pictures

While Botox Cosmetic works wonderfully to relax the eye muscle to soften if not resolve the fine lines and provide a lifting of the brow, it does not address the loss of volume just underneath the lower lid. Although our Erbium MicroLaser Peel is an excellent treatment for the tightening of the skin and resolving fine lines to this area, it also does not address the issue of volume loss.

After months of research for the best technique and outcomes, we are pleased to introduce a new service referred to as a “tear trough” treatment. The tear trough area refers to the area just below the lower lid wherein a depression may become more visible as well as a sunken look where the inner eye meets the side of the nose. By using a filler (Restylane) we are able to restore volume to this area which improves the texture of the skin, reduces the dark areas, and provides a subtle, rejuvenated look to the eyes. Most patients will enjoy the benefits of this procedure for six to nine months.

Many have already recognized the value of fillers (Restylane/Juvederm/Perlane) to reshape the mid-face or add volume to the mouth area but were unaware of the beautiful effects of the tear trough technique. A combination of all the mentioned modalities is an excellent care plan for eye rejuvenation with the tear trough procedure being an excellent place to start.

At Celibre, we focus on patient education. We want our patients to understand and participate in the decisions that make up their care plan. To this end, our knowledgeable medical staff are here to help you weigh the benefits and risks of our injection treatments.

Our team would be pleased to offer a complimentary consultation to address your skin care goals. A good starting place is to gather information and view before and after photos of Celibre patients in our photo gallery.

At Celibre, we stay at the forefront of research and best practices so that we may offer the most appropriate and effective treatment plans for our valued patients. Please give us a call to learn more about Restylane injections and the tear trough procedure.


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Laser Treatments for Rosacea and Facial Redness

Many patients that are concerned with facial redness (with or without a medical diagnosis of Rosacea) seek advice on how best to treat this common skin condition. Although many patients speculate that they may have Rosacea, they are unsure as to what causes it and how best to treat it.

Rosacea is a chronic skin condition that is associated with alternating periods of remission and exacerbation. The facial redness is associated with superficial blood vessels that are close to the surface of the skin. Certain triggers such as sun exposure, alcohol, and spicy foods may cause a flare of facial redness when these blood vessels are dilated (open and visible).

More About Rosacea Treatments

Rosacea Laser Treatment Before and After Pictures

Often Rosacea will affect the central part of the face such as the cheeks, nose, chin, and middle of the forehead. This condition may lead to changes in the texture of the skin which presents as a rough, uneven, or fleshy appearance. Although it is more prevalent in lighter skin types, patients with medium skin can also get facial redness and/or Rosacea.

Facial redness may also be a symptom of Acne Rosacea. This condition appears with small, red raised acne lesions that are usually found in the same areas as the redness. Although there are a few theories as to what causes Acne Rosacea, it is known that both conditions (Acne and Rosacea) must be treated concurrently for optimal results.

Although there is no cure for Rosacea, there are several effective treatments to control this persistent condition. Because there appears to be a chronic inflammatory skin response that contributes to Rosacea, certain topical and oral medications may be prescribed as an adjunct to treatment. Using gentle skin care products also helps to control inflammation and redness by providing a proper pH balance and constricting the superficial blood vessels. At Celibre, we recommend Green Tea products, daily sunscreen, and effective moisturizers.

Treating facial redness with Class IV medical lasers is a good option for many. Besides resolving the existing redness, these lasers can stimulate and remodel existing collagen which in turn leads to improved skin texture. The pulsed dye laser is considered the gold standard for treating vascular skin conditions such as facial redness/Rosacea because this technology effectively closes the superficial blood vessels that are the underlying cause of the facial redness.

Depending on your goals, lifestyle, and skin type – a treatment plan can be designed that takes all of these into consideration. Research shows that aggressive laser treatments that involve a short amount of downtime offer quicker and more dramatic results. However, for those that are unable or unwilling to have any downtime, the same laser may still be utilized for consistent, predictable outcomes.

At Celibre, we focus on patient education. We want our patients to understand and participate in the decisions that make up their care plan. To this end, our knowledgeable medical staff are here to help you weigh the benefits and risks of our laser treatments.

Our team would be pleased to offer a complimentary consultation to address your skin care goals. A good starting place is to gather information and view before and after photos of Celibre patients in our photo gallery.

At Celibre, we stay at the forefront of research and best practices so that we may offer the most appropriate and effective laser treatment plans for our valued patients. Please give us a call to learn more about Rosacea treatment.


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Laser Treatments for Your Legs. Get Ready for Summer!

As the weather warms up, you may be thinking about your change in wardrobe. Does the idea of shorts, dresses, and skirts make you think twice about your legs? If so, this may be a good time to consider the many services we offer for very common skin conditions.

Spider Veins: This is a very common and frustrating condition for young and older alike. A good alternative to traditional sclerotherapy are laser treatments. By targeting the hemoglobin in the blood vessels, the laser effectively destroys these small, unnecessary spider veins. There is no downtime and treatments are safe for all skin types.

More About Spider Vein Removal

Laser Treatments for Your Legs

Laser Hair Removal: If you’ve thought about laser hair removal before, there is no better time than the spring to start the process. If you are tired of shaving, razor bumps, and waxing; then consider a long-term solution. At Celibre, we have 3 different lasers for hair removal which make treatments safe for all skin types. By using a variety of wavelengths and technology, we are able to customize a treatment plan that will offer the safest, most effective outcomes.

More About Laser Hair Removal

Age Spots, Brown Scars and Other Pigmented Lesions

Laser Hair Removal Before PictureLaser Hair Removal After Picture

Age Spots, Brown Scars and Other Pigmented Lesions: Often, patients will come to us with concerns over brown discoloration also known as pigmented lesions. This discoloration may be a result of traumatic scarring, freckles and moles, insect bites, and more. We utilize Q-Switched laser technology which offers fading and resolution of dark pigmentation with no downtime. This modality is safe for all skin types.

More About Removing Age Spots, Freckles, Etc.

Treatments for Stretch Marks: Fade & Improve

Age Spots Before PicturesAge Spots After Pictures

Stretch Marks: Whether it’s texture, color (pigment), or both that concern you – Celibre offers treatment for stretch marks not only to legs but to other areas of the body as well. Unfortunately, there is no modality that will completely erase stretch marks once they appear. However, current research supports that early intervention may render improved outcomes. Whether the stretch marks are recent or mature, laser treatments for fading of color and improvement of texture may be a good option for many.

More About Laser Stretch Mark Removal

Get Ready for Summer: Laser Treatments

Stretch Mark Removal Before PictureStretch Mark Removal After Picture

If you’re worried about showing off your legs this summer, it may be time to consider laser hair removal, stretch mark removal or spider vein treatment from Celibre Medical to help you get ready for summer.

At Celibre, we focus on patient education. We want our patients to understand and participate in the decisions that make up their care plan. To this end, our knowledgeable medical staff are here to help you weigh the benefits and risks of our laser treatments.

Our team would be pleased to offer a complimentary consultation to address your skin care goals. A good starting place is to gather information and view before and after photos of Celibre patients  in our photo gallery.

At Celibre, we stay at the forefront of research and best practices so that we may offer the most appropriate and effective laser treatment plans for our valued patients. Please give us a call to learn more about laser treatments.

Choosing a Laser Hair Removal Provider

In trying to determine which Los Angeles laser hair removal provider is right for you, it’s important to know which type of lasers are safe and effective for your skin type. Let’s start by defining the skin types.

There are six skin types, I – VI.

  • Type I skin is of Caucasian descent, is very fair and is typically Northern European or Scandinavian such as Swedish or Irish.
  • Skin Type II is also fair and is normally associated with Caucasian skin types of European descent. English, German, Russian etc. are usually skin type II.
  • Skin type III includes Caucasians of Mediterranean descent and some lighter skinned Hispanics. Many Italians, Spanish, Greeks and light skinned Hispanics from South American are skin type III.
  • Skin Type IV is typically medium skinned Hispanics, Asians, and Persians/Middle Easterners.
  • Skin Type V is typically light skinned North Africans or African Americans.
  • Skin Type VI is associated with dark skinned Africans.

More About Los Angeles Laser Hair Removal

Los Angeles Laser Hair Removal Before and After PicturesLos Angeles Laser Hair Removal Before and After Pictures

Los Angeles Laser Hair Removal Before and After Pictures

Now that you know something about your skin type, below are a few laser choices for laser hair removal. There are three fairly well accepted types of Class IV medical lasers for hair removal:

  • The Diode Laser
  • The Alexandrite Laser
  • The Nd:Yg Laser

The most common hair removal laser, the Diode laser, is the Lumenis Lightsheer. Many consider it the gold standard for laser hair removal as it has the widest use among practitioners. The Lumenis Lightsheer is ideal for skin types I-IV and can be used on higher skin types (according to the manufacturer) if certain models of this equipment are used. For the most part, Diode lasers are IDEAL for skin types I-IV, and we would advise you to exercise caution if you are a consumer with skin type V or VI and a facility is using the Diode laser for your skin type.

The Alexandrite Laser is less commonly used laser but very effective for hair removal in skin types I-III. Generally it is not used above skin type III because there is a risk of hyperpigmentation (a change in skin color) and or blistering. Although these are potential side effects for any laser treatment, the chance of the side effects happening when using an Alexandrite laser for hair removal above skin type III increases greatly. There are several brands of Alexandrite lasers but the Cynosure Apogee is a widely used model.

The long pulsed Nd:Yg is used for all skin types and is the most common laser used for skin types III, IV, V and VI. The reason is that the physical properties of this laser allow it to penetrate more deeply than the first two lasers. By penetrating more deeply into the skin, this laser is able to bypass the upper layers of skin that contain melanin, the body’s natural coloring. Melanin can compete with the coloring in the hair for the laser’s energy and in darker skinned patients, this laser allows the practitioner to lessen the risk that the laser energy will be absorbed at the surface of the skin (potentially leading to a side effect) rather than at the root of the hair follicle where the energy should be absorbed. There are many long pulsed Nd:Yg lasers to choose from. One common model of long pulsed Nd:Yg is the Sciton Profile.

Before choosing a Los Angeles laser hair removal provider because of their location or their price, consider choosing one based on how well the technology will work for your skin type and how safe it is for you. The Medical Staff at Celibre are highly trained and passionate about laser and Injection treatments. They understand the importance of individualizing treatments and listening to patient concerns and goals. Our staff is more than willing to share with you all of the ways that our treatment plans may provide you with safe, natural, and appealing outcomes.

Our team would be pleased to offer a complimentary consultation to address your skin care goals. A good starting place is to gather information and view before and after photos of Celibre patients in our photo gallery.

At Celibre, we stay at the forefront of research and best practices so that we may offer the most appropriate and effective laser and injection treatment plans for our valued patients. Please give us a call to learn more about laser and injection treatments.


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