Skin Institute Blog

December 2011
We are extremely fortunate to have Dr Ben Cilento, MD join the Skin Institute next February for approximately 6 months. Dr Cilento is a fellowship-trained Facial Plastic Surgeon and a member of the elite American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery.  His specialities are Plastic Surgery, Facial Surgery and Otolaryngology. He is currently practicing in Houston, Texas.


Throughout his medical career, he has trained and worked with leaders in head and neck and facial plastic surgery.  He has received many awards for clinical research and has published numerous articles on facial plastic surgery. He completed his fellowship under Dr. Calvin M Johnson, Jr., the world famous surgeon who is credited by many as changing the way modern day surgeons think of rhinoplasty and facial rejuvenation.

While at the Skin Institute, Dr Cilento will be performing the following procedures:
-Face lifts
-Blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery)
-Nasal disorders
 
If you would like to pre-book a consultation with Dr Cilento, please contact us on 0800 SKIN Dr (754 637).

 
October 2011
I recently returned from a special filler conference held in Hong Kong.  Our supplier of Restylane Dermal fillers, Q-Med, sponsored me to attend the Restylane Asia Pacific Aesthetic Master Class, which I successfully completed.
 
The Master Class covered advanced indications and the future of full face rejuvenation with cannula and Restylane injectible dermal products.

I would be keen to share my new knowledge with you on your next visit.
Posted by: Karen Ashworth, Cosmetic Nurse Specialist, Skin Institute Silverdale, 09 426 0400

August 2011
Hey everyone - we are the first in New Zealand to be using the FaceTite/NeckTite procedure to shrink up those saggy chins and jowls and redefine the jawline. This procedure is the first to use bipolar radio frequency to tighten and firm the skin and remove small areas of fat with a probe and suction cannula under the skin.

We are loving the results!

FaceTite and NeckTite are minimally-invasive procedures performed under local anesthesia and light oral sedation by Doctor Pier Marzinotto. Post procedure, you can go home and resume your normal routine shortly after (wearing a compression garment is required). Some results can be seen immediately, with best results noticeable after 6-12 weeks. I have had one myself so if you want to find out more, pop in for a consultation. We are also able to treat the backs of the upper arms using this process.

For a free cosmetic consultation call Skin Institute Parnell on 09 309 6060.
Posted by Karina Hassall, Cosmetic Nurse Specialist, Skin Institute Parnell.

August 2011
I have recently returned from the Anti-aging conference in Melbourne. This is probably better named “Healthy-aging” as most of it was to do with internal health run by A5M.

Most exciting was the gene testing to find out your health assets or challenges handed down to you by your parents. By knowing this information they can determine the best way forward as far as preventing or negating negative genes taking hold or developing into an illness.

The most agreed on nutritional supplement were the essential fatty acids - fish oils. The most agreed on diet was the Mediterranean diet with fish being the main flesh to consume, carbohydrate restriction, and consuming as many coloured vegetables as possible. When thinking of what to choose or cook think low HI (low human intervention). Obviously water is always required to flush the system and assist the detox pathways. We also need to exercise for at least 100 minutes per week. Exercise promotes the release of growth hormone which is the hormone responsible for keeping us young.

As far as the cosmetic stream was concerned there was info on treating migraines with botox, the perfect lip by Juvederm, treatment of Melasma, fractionated skin resurfacing with CO2, Platelet Rich Plasma treatments for skin rejuvenation, and Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) for skin rejuvenation and treatment of skin cancer. Also, we had many nutritional sessions and learnt about hormone creams to assist the skin in staying young. It is well understood that the healthier body will respond better to any cosmetic treatments. Peptides and stem cells are the latest in skin care so watch this space.

Hope to see you soon in the clinic. Remember that we offer a FREE cosmetic consultation should you wish to discuss your skin requirements.
Posted by: Karina Hassall, Cosmetic Nurse Specialist, Skin Institute Parnell, 09 309 6060

July 2011
Last week three of our cosmetic nurses team (Sally, Lee and Karina) were lucky enough to be sent across to Brisbane by Allergan for an advanced injecting course with Dr Mauricio de Maio from Brazil, training on specialised techniques using Botox and Juvederm dermal fillers.

With the ash cloud hanging around we were unsure if we could actually fly but did manage to get there and back safely but feeling a little worse for wear from the turbulence.

The training was amazing. We learnt many new techniques and re-visited some of our old ones. Allergan constantly keep us at the forefront by training us with the latest techniques as they are developed by world cosmetic leaders in advanced injecting.

We are now back on the job with a new set of techniques and enjoying offering these to our clients. Ask us about the De Maio brow lift with Botox or the new cannula technique for no bruise fillers. We offer a free cosmetic consultation for any questions that you may have.
Posted by Karina Hassall (Registered Nurse & Clinic Manager Parnell) Phone: 309 6060

June 2011
Things are looking up for the upper face.
What are your best facial features? Chances are that in that list are your eyes. Although they command our attention, the surrounding upper face allows them to ‘shine’. The eyes, forehead, eyebrows and under-eye area work in harmony to give an open, friendly, approachable look. However, over time natural facial changes associated with ageing can give the impression that we are tired, sad or even angry – even when we’re not!

So what happens? Over time, the repeated contraction of muscles in the upper face when we make facial expressions can cause the formation of facial lines and wrinkles, which can be obvious even at rest. The decrease in soft tissue volume (naturally occurring complex sugars and under-skin fat) which happens naturally over time, also contributes to the development of upper facial lines. Another cause is damage from sun exposure and smoking. These can also alter skin texture and skin pigmentation (apparent as dark circles under the eyes, freckles or sunspots). To help keep your upper face glowing, start by protecting your skin from sun damage and quit or don't start smoking.

There is plenty to talk about regarding rejuvenation possibilities for the upper face. The cosmetic nurses at the Skin Institute are fully trained and experienced and available to discuss your rejuvenation needs. Contact us today for a FREE cosmetic consultation with a Registered Cosmetic Nurse.
Posted by Karina Hassall (Registered Nurse & Clinic Manager Parnell) Phone: 309 6060

May 2011
Have you noticed vertical lines appearing between someone’s eyebrows when they frown or concentrate? These frown lines are usually only noticeable during facial expressions. However, over time repeated movement of the ‘glabellar muscle complex’ may cause these lines to become ‘static’ (visible even when the face is at rest). When you frown, the facial muscles pull or contract inwards and downwards, causing the skin between the brows to be pulled into a frown. Repeated contraction of the muscles over time can cause permanent disruption to the layers of skin that sit above. These ‘static’ frown lines can make people look angry, tired or stressed - even when they are not feeling that way.

Did you realise that people have different patterns of frown lines? They may have an ‘eleven’ (two vertical lines between the eyebrows) or a ‘one’ (single line). As you can see from the photos, there are also scrunch, boxed and horizontal patterns.



You can help prevent frown lines by also protecting your skin from sun exposure by wearing a wide-brimmed hat and using sunscreen. There are however treatment options available that decrease the appearance of frown lines, so discuss what’s possible with your local Skin Institute clinic.
Posted by Karina Hassall (Registered Nurse & Clinic Manager Parnell) Phone: 309 6060

May 2011
Skin Institute Parnell now has available the often talked about Pumpkin Peel by DermaQuest. This is for resurfacing the skin and great for age management and acne care. Formulated with Glycolic, Salicylic, Lactic acids and Pumpkin Pulp (a derivative of Vitamin A).
Benefits include: increase in cellular turnover, increase in epidermal and dermal hydration, assists with a decrease in acne breakouts and release of comodones, stimulates the production of collagen and elastin, decreases lines and wrinkles, and lightens pigmentation. The plant extracts provide anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits and the skin feels significantly more smooth and tight post treatment. Call the Parnell clinic on 09 309 6060 to book a FREE consultation.
Posted by Karina Hassall (Registered Nurse & Clinic Manager Parnell) Phone: 309 6060

April 2011
FREE BREAST CHECK
The Skin Institute is pleased to have Dr Karen Parker offering a FREE breast check. One of New Zealand's most experienced Breast Physicians, Karen is offering this service as part of our Womens Health initiative. If you have a lump that is of concern in your breast, Karen will perform an examination and discuss her recommendations for you. Breast lumps can be of concern and it is better to diagnose these early. Many times they are of no danger and by having an examination this can be confirmed. However, if there is a problem, early detection is best. As a breast physician Karen will be able to direct the best course of events in treatment and works closely with breast surgeons Dr Isaac Cranshaw and Dr Stephen Benson. Karen works is available at a Skin Institute Clinic near you. Call 0800 754 637
Posted by Karina Hassall (Registered Nurse & Clinic Manager Parnell) Phone: 309 6060

April 2011
PIXEL GIVES RENEWED SKIN TEXTURE
Pixel skin resurfacing is the newest and most effective way to change the skin texture with minimal downtime. Using a laser, the pixel causes hundreds of micro-perforations in the skin which then heal with new skin, creating a stronger and newer complexion. Usually 2-5 treatments are required to obtain optimum results. After the treatment, the skin is moderately red and there are tiny pixel patterns on the skin which feel like sand. These gently slough off over 3-5 days. Pixel is effective for skin tightening, reducing the appearance of open pores, reducing acne scars and collagen stimulation. For a FREE cosmetic consultation with a cosmetic nurse call 0800 754 637.
Posted by Karina Hassall (Registered Nurse & Clinic Manager Parnell) Phone: 309 6060

April 2011
FACETITE is coming!!
Watch this space. Skin Institute Parnell will soon be introducing Facetite and Necktite procedures. This is the first subdermal skin tightening procedure available in New Zealand and is perfect for jowls, aging of the lower face and saggy necks. Call Skin Instiute Parnell to make an appointment for a FREE consultation and more information about the procedure on 09 309 6060.
Posted by Karina Hassall (Registered Nurse & Clinic Manager Parnell) Phone: 309 6060

February 2011
Cosmetic micropigmentation (semi-permanent makeup) is now available at our Silverdale clinic.
Beauty Therapist, Maria Grieve has over 12 years experience and performs this specialised technique where a vegetable dye (pigment) is implanted into the skin to create eyebrows, eyeliner, beauty spots and lip liner. The procedure has many benefits, which can be read about here. Call us on 09 426 0400 to make an appointment.
Posted  by  Karen Ashworth (Clinic Manager Silverdale) Phone: 09 426 0400

February 2011
Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a very popular treatment performed at Skin Institute. It is used to cure pre-cancerous and cancerous lesions, reduces acne and is a marvellous skin rejuvenator. So having treated many of my clients with PDT I felt it was time I experienced it first hand.

Having had many years horse riding in the harsh New Zealand sun I had started to notice scaly patches of sun damage developing on my face and hands. Another side effect of being an outdoors girl was stubborn brown pigment on my face that was very difficult to lighten even with IPL.

For anyone undergoing this treatment it is important to ensure you have at least 1-2 weeks for recovery as side effects can vary per individual. I experienced some swelling and redness similar to sunburn initially with peeling and mild discomfort around day five. Mild analgesia such as panadol was all I required and the help of cool facial washes and soothing homecare products helped the healing process.

The end result is fabulous!  I have flawless skin which has been likened to a ‘baby’s bottom’!
The stubborn pigment has gone and all traces of dry scaly patches have disappeared. I am confident I will not have to resort to other invasive treatments to remove skin cancer in the future. A great success!
Posted  by  Sally Ellison (Clinic Manager & Cosmetic Nurse specialist Ponsonby) Phone: 376 8888

August 2010
On the last weekend of winter 2010 I was  given the opportunity to attend the Annual Australasian Q-med Restylane Symposium in Sydney. I was accompanied by fellow Cosmetic Nurses Lee and Zoreh. It was an intense day filled with real time demonstrations using the most innovative dermal filler techniques. Presenters included a panel of experienced cosmetic physicians including the lively and humorous plastic surgeon Steven Liew . We were privileged to share in their personal approaches to the art and science of using N.A.S.H.A. (Non Animal Stabilised Hyaluronic Acid) to improve the aging process for people who value their appearance.

This year the symposium focused on the ‘natural lift’ techniques.  The objective of the natural lift is restore volume and lift to facial structures. This is particularly useful when improving problem areas like nasolabial folds. We were also reminded of the value of improving hydration levels of the skin with Restylane Vital. I have returned with an enthusiasm for informing people of the value of dermal hydration with Restylane Vital to complement their current regimen.
Posted  by Jenny Laurence - Cosmetic Nurse specialist.

August 2010
Dr Mark Gray was recently at the Waikato Quarterly Dermatology meeting at the Bryant Education Centre which is located at the base of Waikato Hospital. Dr Gray gave a presentation was on nasal reconstruction.
Posted  by  Kerrie Stevens.

July 2010
Nine of our cosmetic nurses from all of our clinics recently went to Queenstown to attend the annual New Zealand appearance medicine conference. They learnt the most up to date injecting techniques for dermal fillers, mid and upper face augmentation and wrinkle reduction.
Posted  by  Karen Ashworth - Clinic Manager.

July 2010
Skin Institute Parnell have just achieved Telarc accreditation as a Day Stay Surgery and Procedures Clinic. This has been a huge accomplishment for the Parnell clinic and the Skin Institute group as a whole. Skin Institute Parnell will now be taking on more surgeries and also  more comprehensive vein treatments – either superficial or varicose. They will offer all treatments such as Sclerotherapy for superficial spider veins,  Ultrasound Guided Sclerotherapy (UGS) and Endovenous Laser Treatment (EVLT) or surgery for varicose veins.
Posted  by  Karina Hassall - Clinic Manager.

March 2010
The Skin Institute has opened two new clinics Skin Institute Wanaka and Skin Institute Gore. Both clinics are located within high-end Beauty Therapy clinics offering mainly Appearance Medicine services and Skin Cancer checks.

In the next few months we are opening another branch in Dunedin, this one is operating from an established Appearance Medicine clinic under medical leadership, therefore enabling us to offer safe and assured follow-up for more involved medical procedures such as varicose vein treatment and skin cancer excisions.
Posted  by  Dr Hans Raetz.

March 2010
During our last vein clinic in Queenstown we treated a patient with a combination of surgery, endovenous laser ablation and ultrasound guided sclerotherapy. As all procedures were done under local anaesthetic the patient was able to return to work the next day without any downtime, we will finish the treatment with 3 or 4 attendances in total.

Skin Institute Queenstown will continue to offer a team approach between general surgeon and non-operative vein specialist as the way forward for the treatment of the worst varicose vein disease.
As always, standalone surgery or laser/injection treatment as a non surgical option will treat 99% of all cases.
Posted  by  Dr Hans Raetz.

February 2010
This month I thought I would share with you my own personal experience of having a Pixel laser treatment. Similar to the Matrix RF, this clever laser creates an ablative and thermal effect that stimulates the skin to produce collagen, while tightening and improving skin texture, smoothing out wrinkles, scars and other irregularities.
Having spent some time outdoors over my summer holidays I had noticed my general skin texture and brown pigmentation had become more noticeable. Having such pale skin, no matter how much sun protection I use, my skin becomes sun damaged easily over the summer months.
 
Therefore, once back at work I eagerly decided to freshen my complexion with a Pixel laser treatment. Having treated many of my clients with this laser I felt it was high time I experienced its effects!

I decided to have the treatment on Monday evening, and applied numbing gel to my face for one hour prior which worked very quickly.
During the treatment I only felt a few mild pricking sensations over my upper lip and cheeks, otherwise it was very bearable. The treatment took only 40 minutes and afterwards I looked like I had a mild sunburn with some warmth associated,but no discomfort. The warmth had gone after 30 minutes and to be honest I was amazed at how easy and simple the procedure was.

I was back at work the next day, my face was looking a little pink and there were lots of tiny dots visible. These dots are tiny healing scabs and lasted for 3-5 days before disappearing. With such a quick healing time I was able to go out that weekend and had people commenting on my radiant skin. My skin texture has continued to improve and I will be eager to have my second treatment in 4 weeks time.

This is a great way to freshen the complexion and after approximately 2-3 treatments people can see great improvements to fine lines, open pores, acne scarring and pigmentation. Highly recommended!
Posted  by  Sally Ellison- Cosmetic Nurse specialist.

August 2009
MATRIX RF - SUBLATIVE REJUVENATION is a new skin resurfacing technique using radio frequency. Unlike traditional ablative laser, this treatment it is suitable for all skin types.  It is safe requiring minimal downtime and discomfort. This new advancement in rejuvenation creates microscopic channels in the skin which are surrounded by areas of healthy untreated skin ensuring a quick recovery time. The treated areas stimulate collagen production for the improvement of fine lines, wrinkles, acne scarring, sun damage and textural irregularities.

For more information on MATRIX RF - Sublative Rejuvenation please contact the Skin Institute Clinic & Medical Spa Ponsonby on 09 376 8888. Posted by: Kerrie Stevens

July 2009
The Skin Institute is committed to ensuring a very high level of quality in the service, care and procedures that it offers through its clinics nationwide. We recently underwent a comprehensive audit by an independent agency Quality Health New Zealand. Our Takapuna, Ponsonby, Westgate and Silverdale clinics were successfully granted three years certification having met New Zealand Standards 8146:2005 Standard for Day Stay Surgery and Procedures. To read more about our certification, click here.
Posted by: Shantel Taylor - Compliance & Accreditation Officer.

June 2009
Our popular Italian Doctor, Pier Marzinotto is frequently featured in the Ponsonby News with his Questions and Answers column. A very approachable man, Pier keeps getting stopped in the streets of Ponsonby to answer varying questions. So don’t be shy, send in your queries and Pier will answer these personally for you.

Skin Institute has always been community focused as can be seen from the recent sponsorship of the Takapuna under 10 soccer team. All kids have been provided with a new soccer shirt with Skin Institute details printed on them. Go team!
Posted  by  Sally Ellison- Cosmetic Nurse specialist.

June 2009
Skin Institute has certainly been in the lime light recently!
I am currently treating the lovely Milly Nolan – beauty editor of MiNDFOOD magazine. We are mid-way through a course of Microdermabrasions and superficial facial peels. This combination treatment  gently exfoliates the dead skin layer, leaving skin feeling alive and glowing. You can follow her progress on the MiNDFOOD Blog. Milly has also been maintaining her skin with the full range of Rationale skincare provided by Skin Institute, review her thoughts.
Karina Hassall- Cosmetic nurse specialist and clinic manager of Skin Institute Parnell has also been featured in Black Magazine having completed a course of  Accent for leg and body shaping on Beauty Editor Rachel Churchwood. This treatment is used to reduce cellulite and improve tone and texture of the skin to problem areas
Posted  by  Sally Ellison- Cosmetic Nurse specialist.

June 2009
We have recently returned from the ACCS conference based in Darling Harbour/Sydney.We have all arrive back feeling inspired after listening to world class speakers and trialling an array of new technology and products. I personally found the advances in laser technology really interesting. The trend is toward using fractionated skin resurfacing  lasers, with great results being seen in collagen stimulation, contraction, wrinkle reduction and general skin rejuvenation.The beauty  of these lasers is that the patient's recovery time is cut in half and the side effects are minimal versus the older fully ablative lasers, while still providing brilliant results.
Posted by Sally Ellison- cosmetic nurse specialist.

May 2009
Dr Mark Gray has recently featured on TV3's Campbell Live, demonstrating the popular new High-Def LipoSelection technique. He is seen transforming a patients abdomen by removing stubborn fatty deposits and leaving him with a more toned and sculptured result. From flab to fabulous in approximately 3 hours. Believe it or not the perfect body is now possible without doing all the hard work! The final results of this operation will be revealed in the upcoming  follow-up appointment – watch this space.
Posted by Sally Ellison – cosmetic nurse specialist.

1 April 2009
Mr Mark Izzard of the Skin Institute is featured in the April edition of MiNDFOOD magazine, page 94. This well known magazine published an article highlighting the differences between cosmetics and cosmeceuticals. Mr Izzard commented that, “cosmetics should be thought of as products that just sit on the skin… cosmeceuticals have active ingredients that are absorbed into the epidermis (like a sponge absorbs water).” Click here to view the article.
Posted by Sally Ellison – Cosmetic nurse specialist.

29 March 2009
An expert in head and neck surgery and cosmetic facial surgery, Mr Mark Izzard will be at this years Australasian College of Cosmetic Surgery (ACCS) conference in Sydney speaking on chin implants and facial rejuvenation. To keep abreast of new procedures and techniques, a group of Skin Institute specialist nurses and Doctors will be attending this world-class event. We’ll keep you posted with the latest technological advances to ensure you keep looking your best. Contact the Skin Institute to book a consultation to discuss what procedures may be best suited to you.
Posted by Sally Ellison – Cosmetic nurse specialist.


27 March 2009
By creatively using High Definition (Hi-Def) LipoSelection techniques, Dr Mark Gray of the Skin Institute has revolutionised body sculpting for his clients. Vaser Hi-Def LipoSelection uses ultrasound technology, which virtually melts the fat, allowing the surgeon to remove higher volumes of fat than with other procedures. The fat is removed from the subcutaneous level allowing the surgeon to create a more defined look of 6-pack abs or chiseled arms.

Having recently returned from an advanced Hi-Def LipoSelection workshop in Tokyo, Dr Mark Gray has been treating many patients successfully with astounding results. If you are interested in reading more about Vaser® Hi-Def LipoSelection please click here or contact the Skin Institute to schedule a consultation.
Posted by Sally Ellison – Cosmetic nurse specialist.


25 March 2009
The Skin Institute is always pushing forward and keeping abreast of new leading techniques. Let Dr Pier Marzinotto from the Skin Institute help you regain that youthful appearance with the new Revitalizing Thread Lift by Promo- Italia. This minimally invasive technique uses resorbable threads to lift sagging tissue, while maintaining a relaxed fresh look. This has been very popular amongst clients who are not wanting or unable to have a conventional facelift. Pier is available at our Takapuna, Ponsonby and Parnell clinics. To book a consultation please call 0800 754 637 or contact us.
Posted by Sally Ellison – Cosmetic nurse specialist.


3 March 2009
We are very excited to announce our new Acne clinics that launched this month. These clinics are lead by expert nurses and doctors skilled in acne diagnosis and prevention.  If you would like to read more click here or if you think you may be a candidate for this please contact us.
Posted by Sally Ellison – Cosmetic nurse specialist.