Achieving a Firmer, More Youthful Complexion with Skin Tightening

In some ways, our skin is quite similar to the clothing that we cover it with. Your favorite shirt fits perfectly when it was new. However, after many years of wear the elastic is weak, the fabric has grown thin, the fibers have grown weak, and the garment is stretched out of shape. A similar process occurs within the skin, as the collagen network weakens, and laxity increases. Fortunately, Franklin, TN residents have a variety of non-surgical skin tightening solutions available right here at Jack & Jill Aesthetics.

Over the counter skin firming products – do they work?

Store shelves are brimming with skincare products, many of which claim to firm, tighten, and smooth aged skin. Patients often ask if these formulas work. The answer depends on two factors:

First is the product itself; some brands are excellent while others are low-quality and contain impure fillers. When purchasing any skincare item, ask us for advice if you are unsure what is right for you.

Secondly, you need to have realistic expectations, or you will meet with disappointment, even when using the highest quality product. Therapeutic formulas with ingredients such as retinols can nourish skin, helping it stay healthy and subtly fight the progression of aging. However, they will not make a dramatic difference, nor will they correct existing laxity. This is why most retail products are branded as skin firming formulas, not skin tightening formulas.

To truly tighten skin, we must address the root cause of laxity. Skin is composed of several layers. The epidermis is what we see, it is the uppermost layer. Moisturizers and other topical products may seep into the epidermis, introducing therapeutic compounds from the top down. They can help exfoliate, hydrate, and nourish the skin surface. However, skin laxity, or tightening, takes place at a much deeper layer, the dermis.

How does professional, nonsurgical skin tightening work?

Face creams are not enough, but you aren’t ready for cosmetic surgery. Is there an alternative? In generations past, there was not. Thankfully, that has changed with the development of several gentle – and highly effective – devices designed specifically for tightening saggy skin without surgery.

These procedures can reduce laxity, texture, and the crepey appearance of aged skin. There are several techniques, all of which work by applying therapeutic energy to the treatment area. As cells absorb energy, the process creates a thermal reaction that effectively triggers production of new collagen and elastin in the deep dermal layer.

Because collagen and elastin are types of proteins, they tend to shrink and tighten a bit when exposed to heat. Therefore, you might notice some improvement very soon after your Franklin skin tightening treatment is complete.

However, the greatest benefits occur gradually and are long-lasting. Collagen remodeling and increased production gradually firms, tightens, and smooths skin in the weeks following your procedure. We know that every person is different, and therefore has unique needs. That is why we offer several skin tightening options.

What is ultrasound skin tightening?

For over half a century, ultrasound energy has been implemented safely and effectively in a variety of medicinal uses. Today, it is a staple of aesthetic medicine, with skin tightening being among the most popular uses.

Ultrasound devices are among the best ways to tighten neck skin, as well as treating the chin, brow, chest, and other areas.

  • Some ultrasound devices have been FDA cleared for several treatment areas on the face and neck
  • Ultrasound is an excellent choice for patients fighting early signs of aging or seeking prejuvenation
  • The procedure may take about 30 minutes or longer, depending on the treatment area
  • Full results develop within about three months
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What are radiofrequency (RF) treatments?

Devices such as Pellevé work with therapeutic RF energy, which safely passes through the surface layer of skin to target deep tissues where collagen is formed. It is gentle enough for use in delicate areas such as around the eyes, yet it is powerful enough to correct significant skin laxity.

  • The FDA has cleared RF devices for treatment of the neck, face, hands, and other areas of the body
  • RF is considered safe for all skin types and all skin colors
  • There is no downtime and patients typically describe the procedure as painless
  • A series of up to six treatments may be needed in order to achieve optimal improvement
  • Full results are seen several months after the final RF session

What is IPL skin tightening?

Intense pulsed light (IPL) therapy, also called photo-rejuvenation, is gentler than laser resurfacing and has little to no downtime. This procedure can improve skin tone and texture, as well as stimulating collagen production to reduce laxity.

  • The IPL procedure is fast and convenient, usually completed in about 30 minutes
  • No bandages to change, no significant recovery, no downtime
  • Broad spectrum light provides multifaceted skin rejuvenation, improving skin laxity, redness, uneven complexion, sun damage, and much more
  • Most patients will need a few IPL sessions, spaced several weeks apart

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Who is a good candidate for skin tightening in Franklin?

Because skin tightening treatments are nonsurgical and noninvasive or minimally invasive, the risk of complication is very low. These procedures are generally considered safe for most adults. However, pregnancy, certain medical conditions and prescription medications may contraindicated skin tightening. We will discuss your medical history and other factors during the initial consultation before making a recommendation.

Generally, our Franklin skin tightening is a good option for most patients’ concerns about age-related skin laxity, which can cause wrinkles, sagging, and a crepe-like appearance. It is also popular for tightening up droopy areas after weight loss. However, it is important to remember that these procedures are nonsurgical, so they do not remove excess skin.

If you have severe sagging, or have undergone major weight loss surgery, then a procedure such as a tummy tuck or facelift may be more appropriate. We will discuss all viable options during your consultation, and help you choose the one most appropriate for your needs. We offer a full range of non-surgical solutions in one comfortable and convenient location. Whatever your needs, you can count on Jack & Jill Aesthetics in Franklin. Just call us today to schedule a consultation.

What is J-Plazty?

J-Plazty is a technique for cold plasma skin tightening, developed and popularized by a plastic surgeon named Dr. Jack Zamora. Medical providers across the country have been trained in this trademarked procedure. It has also inspired a number of other treatments, opening the door to a new era in aesthetic medicine. Today, you might see such procedures called J-Platzy, J-plasty, J-plasma, Renuvion treatment, or PSR (plasma skin resurfacing). All these terms refer to the same, or similar, treatments.

Unlike most minimally-invasive skin tightening, these procedures target the underside of skin, going directly to the source of laxity. They can tighten, shrink, and sculpt tissue with remarkable precision. It is safe for most patients – with minimal downtime.

What is plasma?

Aesthetic medicine is a rapidly developing area of science, with a staggering variety of noninvasive or minimally invasive treatments currently available. Many of these are technology-driven, and patients are familiar with lasers, ultrasound, radiofrequency, and other types of devices. However, cold plasma is a relatively new addition to the anti-aging world, and it is redefining the line between what is and isn’t possible with nonsurgical procedures.

If you are a bit confused by the term cold plasma, you aren’t alone. The word plasma has a couple of definitions, – it means something entirely different depending on whether it is used in reference to biology or physics.

Biology – Plasma in this context refers to a colorless liquid, which is a component of many fluids in the body. Blood plasma contains growth factors and has been used in a rejuvenation treatment called PRP (platelet rich plasma) for some time. Many people mistakenly believe that J-Plazty plasma is similar, but it actually works with an entirely different type of plasma, as described below.

Physics – In this context, plasma is something else entirely, often described as a gas. However, scientists technically classified it as a unique state of matter. In physics, something may be a liquid, solid, gas, or plasma. A gas such as helium may become plasma when ionized (charged) with electricity, radiofrequency, or other energy. Historically, the majority of scientific research surrounding practical applications of plasma revolved around creating visible light and color (think plasma televisions or neon signs), which involve tremendous heat. More recently, clinicians and medical researchers have been working with cold plasma, and its effect on human tissue. This is the plasma used in J-Plazty.

How does plasma treatment work?

Considering the variety of skin tightening treatments already available, you might be wondering why doctors and patients alike are so excited about J-Plazty. The simple answer is: results. Just one application of plasma can significantly contract tissue – instantly. It can often achieve a greater degree of tightening than laser, ultrasound, or radiofrequency alone. Many patients who’ve had unsatisfactory experiences with common skin tightening treatments are seeing fast and beautiful results from plasma treatment.

The procedure is performed using Renuvion’s J-Plasma technology. This sophisticated device uses radiofrequency (RF) energy to ionize helium gas, creating therapeutic plasma. The chemical stability of helium facilitates a predictable reaction at low energy levels, for ultimate precision. Not only is the energy source different from most skin tightening and rejuvenation procedures, but the process itself is different.

How does plasma treatment bridge the broad gap between noninvasive facial rejuvenation and surgical facelifts?

Noninvasive treatments work by applying some type of energy to the top of skin, so that it passes through the surface and reaches deep layers where collagen production takes place. The challenge is getting enough energy to the dermis, without the epidermis absorbing too much. Such procedures can have wonderful results, but they have their limits.

At the other end of the spectrum, a typical facelift involves removal and repositioning of skin, muscles, and other tissue. It can achieve dramatic results but involves the same risk as any minor surgery. Additionally, you will need to be prepared for some downtime after a facelift.

Unlike typical laser or RF treatments, plasma is not applied topically. Instead, it is applied to the underside of skin, exactly where it is needed. It only requires a few tiny incisions and does not involve removing any tissue. Therefore, the benefits are far more powerful than noninvasive treatment, while the downtime is much less than a surgical facelift.

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Jamie Brown
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I had THE best custom facial and dermaplaning today with Stacie! She took her time to educate on products she used and is very knowledgeable in so many esthetic services. I left feeling relaxed and looking forward to seeing her again next month! My face was feeling fabulous before she was even finished. And can't leave out Corlis! He is THE best receptionist and knows his products! I moved here a yr and a half and tried several places. I don't have to search anymore!!
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Kyle Baldwin
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The whole team is great!! From being greeted by Corlis who is attentive to the check in and check out process. To everyone in the back of the house who takes their time to listen and walk you thought any questions you have. I keep making the drive because of the personal connection of Corlis and the whole team.
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Misty Doty
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This was my first time at this location and Colis was so fantastic. He made me feel right at home and will definitely be back because of him. My nurse Morgan answered every question I had and even more I didn’t realize I had. I have to give this place a 5 star cause I can’t go any higher. Thank you guys for making everything go so smoothly ( my pun there ) !
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Linda Sables
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I'm very pleased with my experience today. Matt’s attention to detail was impressive to say the least. His assistant Drew was also accommodating. Every staff member at Jack and Jill have been very professional and kind. I will be back for more services.
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Michelle Dei
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Great hydrafacial with Schafer !

Who is a good candidate?

We will begin with a consultation and discuss your treatment options. Due to the minimally invasive nature of plasma therapy, it is safe for most adults. Plasma has a much lower temperature than laser energy, and it does not pass through the skin’s surface, reducing or eliminating the risk of burns.

The best candidates for treatment are patients who:

  • Want maximum results with minimal downtime
  • Are not ready for a surgical facelift
  • Have tried noninvasive skin tightening or laser resurfacing with unsatisfactory results
  • Want to improve elasticity, and sculpt and shrink loose skin on the face or body
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What should I expect from a plasma treatment?

During the initial consultation and planning for skin tightening in Franklin TN, we will discuss any pre-treatment or post-treatment steps you need to take, which are generally minimal. You may be advised to discontinue certain dietary supplements a couple weeks before treatment and wear a compression garment for a few days after. The actual procedure is performed right here in our office. Only local anesthesia is needed to ensure a comfortable experience.

Once you are numbed, tiny incisions are made in hidden locations. For facial treatment, they are usually behind each ear and beneath the chin. Plasma energy is then applied sub dermally, and the incisions are closed with dissolvable sutures. Results are instant, though it may take a couple of weeks for swelling and bruising to subside. Most patients are able to resume normal activities within a few days of plasma treatment.

How do I move forward with skin tightening in Franklin?

If you want to sculpt your face or body without invasive surgery or extended downtime, call us at Jack & Jill Aesthetics today and schedule a consultation to find out what Franklin TN skin tightening options are right for you.