In the world of non-invasive cosmetic treatments, two popular methods have gained significant attention for their ability to tighten skin, reduce wrinkles, and improve overall skin appearance: High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) and Radiofrequency Microneedling (RFM).

While both are effective skin rejuvenation treatments, they differ in their mechanisms of action, targeted areas, and ideal use cases. Understanding the differences between these two can help you make an informed decision about which treatment is right for your specific needs.

Combining HIFU and RFM can offer the best of both worlds. While HIFU works at a deeper level to tighten and lift, RFM targets the surface for smoother, more youthful skin. Together they can provide:

• Comprehensive skin rejuvenation
• Improved skin laxity
• Enhanced collagen stimulation 
• Superior results 

Choosing between HIFU and RFM depends on your unique skin goals. The number of sessions and intervals between sessions may vary depending on individual skin type and concerns. It is important to consult with a trained and licensed professional to determine which treatment is suitable for your specific skin concerns.  

HIFU is a non-invasive, cutting-edge treatment that uses ultrasound energy to target deep layers of skin and tissue, promoting tightening, lifting, and overall skin rejuvenation. It’s particularly popular for skin tightening and lifting in areas that tend to show signs of aging, like the face, neck, and jawline.

Here’s a breakdown of what HIFU is, how it works, the benefits, and what you can expect from a typical treatment:

What is it?

HIFU is a medical-grade technology that uses focused ultrasound waves to deliver targeted energy to the deeper layers of the skin. Unlike lasers or radiofrequency treatments, HIFU uses ultrasound energy to penetrate below the skin’s surface without harming the outer layers, stimulating collagen and elastin production deep in the dermis.

This results in the lifting and tightening of the skin over time, improving the appearance of sagging skin, wrinkles, and fine lines.

How does it work?

HIFU works by using focused ultrasound waves to heat targeted tissues beneath the skin’s surface. The process has two key mechanisms:

• Thermal Injury: The ultrasound energy creates small, controlled injuries in the deeper layers of the skin (dermis and SMAS layer), which stimulates the body’s natural healing response. This results in increased collagen production, which tightens the skin and improves its elasticity over time.

• Skin Lifting: As collagen remodeling occurs, the skin gradually becomes firmer, tighter, and more youthful. The energy is specifically focused on the Superficial Muscular Aponeurotic System (SMAS) layer — a deeper layer of tissue that helps with skin lifting and firmness. This is also the layer that is typically targeted by surgical face lift. This makes HIFU an effective treatment for a modest face lift without invasive surgery.

Where can you treat it?

HIFU is primarily used for skin tightening and lifting, particularly for areas with sagging or loss of elasticity. The common areas treated with HIFU include:

• Face: To tighten sagging skin around the jawline, neck, and cheeks.

• Neck: To address loose skin and wrinkles on the neck area.

• Eyebrow Lift: To lift the brows for a more youthful appearance.

• Chin: To reduce the appearance of a double chin and improve the jawline contour.

• Décolletage: For tightening and smoothing the skin on the chest area.  

Why try HIFU?

• Non-surgical facelift:
  • Stimulates collagen production deep within the skin
  • Helps lift and tighten the skin, improving sagging or loose skin
• Minimal downtime:
  • Can resume normal activities immediately after treatment.
  • May experience mild redness and swelling.
• Non-invasive procedure:
  • Does not involve needles or incisions
  • Lower risk of side effects of complications
• Precision and depth of treatment:
  • Uses focused ultrasound waves to target deeper layers of the skin, specifically the SMAS layer.
  • Same layer targeted during surgical facelift.
  • Effective in tightening and lifting without damaging the surface of the skin.
• Long-lasting results:
  • On average can last 6 months to 1 year depending on age, skin condition, desired outcome and lifestyle
• Targets multiple areas:
  • Customizable to target specific areas of concern
• Can be used for jaw contouring:
  • In addition to tightening and lifting, HIFU can target unwanted fat tissues to provide a more contoured jawline

Did you know that there is a website that clients use to rank their favorite aesthetic treatments? Yes, these are real people with real, honest experiences and feedback!

www.RealSelf.com ranks invasive and non-invasive medical aesthetic treatments based on its worth-it-ness, or in other words, the value of client investment to their skin. 

The holiday season is a time for joy, celebration, and making memories with family and friends. It’s also a great opportunity to treat yourself—or a loved one—to a little extra pampering. With the season of giving around the corner, how about the gift of glowing, radiant skin? Whether you’re looking to rejuvenate your complexion, smooth out wrinkles, or restore youthful volume, there are a variety of skincare treatments that can help you or someone you love feel refreshed and ready to shine this holiday season.

Here’s a guide to the most popular skin treatments to consider before the holidays, and when to book them for optimal results.

Not sure which treatment to get for yourself (or loved ones)? We have the most popular injectable and non-invasive/minimally invasive treatments listed on the left.

The SMAS layer is a fibrous structure in the face and neck that plays a crucial role in facial anatomy. It is often described as an organized fibrous network composed of the platysma muscle, parotid fascia, and fibromuscular layer covering the cheek. It consists of a network of connective tissue that connects the muscles of facial expressions to the skin and underlying structures. The SMAS layer helps support facial contours and allows for movement, contributing to expressions and overall facial dynamics. 

The SMAS layer is important for anti-aging and overall appearance for several reasons: 

• Structural Support:

• • It provides structural integrity to the face, helping to maintain its shape and volume.

  • As we age, this layer can lose elasticity and strength, contributing to sagging skin and a less youthful appearance.

• Facial Contours: 

• • It connects the muscles of facial expressions to the skin, influencing how facial contour appears. 

  • Tightening or repositioning this layer during cosmetic procedures can enhance the natural contours of the face. 

• Dynamic Movement:

• • It plays a role in facial expressions.

  • Maintaining its function helps ensure that facial movements remain natural and expressive, which is important for communication and overall appearance. 

• Long-Lasting Results:

• • When addressed in surgical procedures like facelifts, the SMAS can lead to more durable results compared to just tightening the skin.

  • This is because it addresses the underlying structures that contribute to sagging. 

• Minimized Skin Laxity: 

• • By targeting the SMAS, practitioners can better counteract the effects of gravity and aging, reducing skin laxity and improving the overall youthful appearance of the face. 

 Here are some treatments that specifically target the SMAS layer:

• Surgical Facelifts: Traditional facelift surgery involves lifting and tightening the SMAS layer to achieve more significant and lasting results.

• Radiofrequency Treatments: Devices such as Endymed deliver radiofrequency energy to the deeper layers of the skin, including the SMAS, promoting collagen remodeling and tightening.

• High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU): HIFU uses concentrated ultrasound energy to heat the SMAS layer to stimulate collagen production in the SMAS layer, promoting tightening and lifting without surgery.

• Collagen Stimulating Injectables: While not directly targeting the SMAS, certain collagen stimulating injectables like Sculptra or Radiesse can provide volume and structural support to areas around the SMAS, indirectly enhancing its effect.

• Neuromodulator (e.g. Botox) Injections: Tightening the mimetic facial muscles and directly alters the conformational shape of the overlying SMAS.

• Thread Lifts: This minimally invasive procedure involves inserting dissolvable threads that can lift and support the SMAS layer, providing a subtle lift to the face.

It is no secret that we all want our skin to look and feel its absolute best, but there is a lot of misinformation about skincare products and treatments online that it can be difficult and confusing to determine what you should and shouldn’t be doing when caring for your skin. 

Even if you are someone who has a thorough skincare regimen, there are certain habits that will negatively impact the health and appearance of your skin. Here’s how you can improve your skincare routine and change lifestyle habits to ensure you keep your skin looking fabulous! 

Here’s a list of bad skin habits to break:

• Skipping SPF☀️: Not using sunscreen can lead to premature aging, dark spots, and an increased risk of skin cancer. Daily SPF protects against UV damage.

• Pore strips👃🏼: Although it is seen as a “quick fix,” it does more harm than good. Pore strips aggressively rip out blackheads from the skin, which can damage the skin and widen pores. 

• Sleeping in makeup💄: This can disrupt your skin’s natural renewal process, leading to dullness and premature aging. Leftover makeup will clog pores, contributing to skin irritation and breakouts.

• Picking at your skin🤏: This can introduce bacteria and lead to scarring or increased inflammation. Avoid touching your face and use targeted/spot treatments.

• Over exfoliating🧼: While exfoliation helps remove dead skin cells, too much can strip the skin’s natural barrier, leading to irritation and dryness.

• Being inconsistent & expecting results🫠: Your skin takes time to regenerate and build efficacy. Being inconsistent can be frustrating and counterproductive.

• Neglecting the neck, chest, & hands🤲: These areas show signs of aging, such as wrinkles and sagging, just like the face. They have thinner skin and can age faster if not cared for.

• Not drinking enough water💦: Dehydrated skin can look dull and aged. Drink plenty of water and use topical serums and moisturizers suited for your skin type.

• Using makeup wipes❌: This will strip your skin from its natural oils, causing dehydration and skin irritation due to harsh chemicals and preservatives. Instead, double cleanse using an oil cleanser followed by a gentle cleanser. 

•  Ignoring Skin Type🙈: Using products that aren’t suited for your skin type (like heavy creams on oily skin) can exacerbate issues. Chat with a skincare specialist if you’re unsure of your skin type.

•  Lack of Sleep😴: Poor sleep can lead to a dull complexion and dark circles. Aim for quality rest to allow your skin to repair.

By ditching these habits, you’ll promote healthier, more vibrant skin!

Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Dysfunction may sound like a very complex medical condition, but it is something that impacts a significant amount of the population at some point in their lives. It can be a very painful and frustrating condition, and cause discomfort in your day-to-day life. 

What is TMJ?

TMJ is the hinge that connects your jawbone to your skull. There’s a pair of these joints on each side of your head. They are crucial for activities such as talking, chewing, and yawning. TMJ disorder, or TMD, refers to a range of problems that affect this joint and the surrounding muscles.

Causes of TMJ

TMJ disorder can arise from a variety of factors, often in combination. Common causes include:

• Jaw Injury: Trauma to the jaw or head can disrupt the normal function of the TMJ.

• Teeth Grinding and Jaw Clenching: Often related to stress or anxiety, these habits can put extra pressure on the TMJ.

• Arthritis: Osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis can affect the TMJ just like any other joint in the body.

• Misalignment of the Jaw: Problems with how the teeth and jaw align can lead to TMJ issues.

• Genetic Factors: Some individuals may be more predisposed to TMJ disorders due to their genetics.

Symptoms of TMJ

TMJ disorder can manifest in various ways, and symptoms can range from mild to severe. Some common signs include:

• Jaw Pain: Discomfort or pain in the jaw joint or surrounding muscles.

• Headaches: Frequent headaches or migraines that seem to originate from the jaw area.

• Earaches: Pain or discomfort in the ear, even though there may not be an ear infection.

• Facial Pain: Pain or tenderness in the face, especially around the jaw and cheeks.

• Clicking or Popping Sounds: Auditory symptoms when you open or close your mouth.

• Limited Jaw Movement: Difficulty or pain when trying to open your mouth wide.

What is the Masseter Muscle?

The masseter muscle is one of the major muscles responsible for the movement of the jaw. It’s a thick, quadrilateral muscle that forms part of the masticatory (chewing) muscles. It is located in the region of the jaw and plays a vital role in the process of chewing food.

How Does Masseter Botox Help with TMJ?

1. Reduces Muscle Activity

In cases of TMD, the masseter muscles can become overactive due to factors like teeth grinding or jaw clenching. This overactivity can lead to pain, discomfort, and jaw dysfunction. Botox works by relaxing these muscles, which helps to reduce the strain on the TMJ.

2. Alleviates Pain

By reducing muscle activity, botox can also help alleviate the associated pain. Many individuals with TMD experience significant jaw pain, headaches, or earaches, which can be mitigated by relaxing the masseter muscles.

3. Decreases Teeth Grinding and Clenching

For those individuals who grind or clench their teeth, often as a response to stress or misalignment, botox can also help. By weakening the masseter muscles, botox reduces the force and frequency of these actions, leading to less strain on the TMJ.

How many units of botox will you need for masseters?

• Since the masseter muscle is a strong muscle and has a large surface area, it will require a greater amount of units in comparison to areas such as your forehead, especially because the masseter muscles are being used regularly for chewing. 

• It may vary depending on the severity of your TMJ Disorder.

• Biological gender is usually a factor as females generally have smaller masseter muscles than males.

• When used for cosmetic purposes, such as face slimming, the baseline muscle mass and desired outcome will dictate the dosage

How long does it take to see results?

• Since it is a larger muscle it takes a little longer to take full effect compared to the upper face

• You will see results within 14 days and full effects within 4-6 weeks post-procedure.

How long does it typically last?

• The longevity varies from person-to-person and other factors that are involved.

• Typically, it can last anywhere between 4-6 months.

• Varies with the severity of your TMJ Disorder. 

• You may metabolize the product faster if you are an active individual. 

• Can vary with work or activities that require regular active mouth movements

• Repeated treatments are necessary to maintain results. 

😁Isabelle’s Journey with Masseter Botox

Why I get masseter botox:

I never really paid attention to how much I clench my jaw and teeth until a few years ago. A part of it may be because I had a bad experience with my dentist, which caused excruciating pain on my back tooth. Clenching my jaw would sometimes relieve the pain, which is probably what triggered me to clench my jaw without thinking about it. Plus stress and anxiety, of course. 

My jaw clenching and teeth grinding only worsened over time. My partner would wake up in the middle of the night because he can hear me grinding my teeth in my sleep. My back tooth began to wear down and became thin to the point where I actually had to extract the tooth at the very back. 

After discovering that botox can help relieve the tension, I was super excited even though it is temporary. I wouldn’t say my symptoms are very severe but I know that it negatively impacts my life. A bonus is that it slims down my face. 😉

How often do I get masseter botox? 

I live quite an active lifestyle, including running/training for races and weight lifting as well, leading to my botox wearing off a little faster. Around the 4 month period, I begin to notice that I am clenching my jaw more often, which is my sign to get another treatment. 

Although the masseters are a larger muscle and botox takes a little bit longer to fully kick in compared to the upper face, I feel a release in tension just after 24 hours. 

Fillers are a popular cosmetic treatment used to enhance facial features and reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. They are a non-surgical option that involves injecting a gel-like substance into the skin to add volume and contour to the face. In Calgary, the cost of fillers can vary depending on several factors, such as the type of filler, the amount required, and the experience of the injector.

On average, the cost of hyaluronic acid fillers in Calgary ranges from $600 to $1,000 per syringe. However, the actual cost can vary based on the type of filler used. Each type of filler has its own unique properties and benefits, and the cost can vary based on the specific brand and product used. For example, fillers used to fill the jawline consist of a different material than those used to line the tear troughs. 

• The amount of filler required can also impact the cost of treatment. The amount of filler required can vary depending on the area being treated, the severity of the volume loss and the desired results. For instance, treating the nasolabial folds (smile lines) may require a full syringe of filler, while treating the cheeks may require two syringes. It’s important to note that the amount of filler required may differ from person to person based on individual needs and expectations.

• The experience of the injector can also play a role in the cost of fillers in Calgary. Experienced injectors who have a reputation for providing high-quality results may charge more for their services than newer injectors who are still building their clientele. It’s important to choose a reputable and experienced provider who uses high-quality products to ensure the best possible results.

• Location of the clinic plays a role in the cost of your treatment. Whereas one dermatology clinic located in a brand-new plaza may charge more per treatment, a smaller clinic with less staff and rent to pay will affect the price of your filler treatment.

• Clinic ownership & business model can also influence pricing. Some clinics owned by large corporations or private equity firms may prioritize shareholder profits over patient care, potentially leading to higher costs without necessarily improving quality. It’s always beneficial to research the clinic’s reputation and patient reviews before making a decision.

While cost is an important factor, it shouldn’t be the only consideration when choosing a provider. The experience and qualifications of the injector, as well as the quality of the products used, play a crucial role in achieving safe and natural-looking results. Always opt for a provider with a strong reputation and a commitment to patient safety and satisfaction.

At YYC Botox, we are proud to use high-quality fillers injected by our experienced professionals. We’re also proudly independently owned and operated, ensuring our focus remains on patient care and exceptional results.

Botox is a popular cosmetic procedure used to reduce wrinkles and fine lines. It is an injectable treatment that uses a purified form of the botulinum toxin to temporarily paralyze muscles, resulting in a smoother and more youthful appearance. Botox has gained immense popularity in recent years, with more and more people opting for the treatment to achieve a more youthful and rejuvenated look. About 1 in 4 women in Canada are either receiving or thinking about recieving Botox injections. However, one important factor to consider before getting Botox is the cost. 

In Calgary, the cost of Botox treatment can vary depending on several factors, such as the number of units required, the location of the clinic, and the experience of the injector. On average, the cost of Botox treatment in Calgary ranges from $8 to $15 per unit. However, the actual cost can vary based on the factors mentioned above. 

• The number of units required for Botox treatment can vary depending on the area being treated and the severity of the wrinkles. For instance, treating the frown lines between the eyebrows may require anywhere from 20 to 30 units, while treating the crow’s feet around the eyes may require 12 to 20 units. It’s important to note that the number of units required may differ from person to person based on individual needs and expectations.

• The location of the clinic can also play a role in the cost of Botox treatment. Typically, clinics located in upscale neighborhoods or commercial areas may charge more for their services than those located in less affluent areas. This is due to the higher rent and operating costs associated with such locations.

• The experience of the injector can also impact the cost of Botox treatment in Calgary. Experienced injectors who have a reputation for providing high-quality results may charge more for their services than newer injectors who are still building their clientele. Nurse injectors vs physician injectors will differ in price point. 

• The ownership and business model of a clinic can also influence pricing. Some clinics owned by large corporations or private equity firms may prioritize shareholder profits over patient care, potentially leading to higher costs without necessarily improving quality. It’s always beneficial to research the clinic’s reputation and patient reviews before making a decision.

It’s important to note that the cost of Botox treatment is not the only factor to consider when choosing a provider. The experience and qualifications of the injector, as well as the quality of the products used, are also important factors to consider. It’s always recommended to choose a reputable and experienced provider who uses high-quality products to ensure the best possible results.

At YYC Botox, we are proud to use high-quality fillers injected by our experienced professionals. We’re also proudly independently owned and operated, ensuring our focus remains on patient care and exceptional results.

Botox is a widely popular treatment used for both cosmetic and medical purposes. Many Albertans wonder whether insurance or public health plans cover the cost of Botox treatments. The answer depends on the reason for the treatment.

Cosmetic Botox

If you’re looking to get Botox for cosmetic reasons—such as reducing wrinkles, fine lines, or enhancing facial aesthetics— most private insurance plans and public health plans do not cover the cost. Cosmetic procedures are considered elective and are typically paid out of pocket.

Medical Botox

Botox is sometimes used to treat select medical conditions in certain situations, including chronic migraines, excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis), muscle spasms, and certain neurological disorders. In some cases, public health plans or private insurance plans may cover Botox injections when they are deemed medically necessary and prescribed by a physician. The criteria to meet to obtain coverage is typically strict and required paperwork varies by plan provider. Additional documentation is typically required by an independent health care professional.

Some private insurance plans offer Health Care Spending Accounts (HCSA) or Wellness Accounts, which can be used to cover the cost of medical Botox treatments for conditions like migraines, hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating), and TMJ disorders. If Botox is not covered under your standard health plan, you may be able to submit receipts for reimbursement through these accounts. Check with your insurance provider to confirm eligibility and required documentation.

How to Determine Coverage

If you’re considering Botox for medical reasons, it is essential to speak to your insurance providers. They will typically require additional documentation, such as medical history, specialist referrals, or proof of unsuccessful alternative treatments and require paperwork to be completed by your family physician.

As a cosmetic provider, we are conflicted and cannot complete paperwork to help you get medical Botox coverage. Your primary physician or a specialist must be the one to assess your condition and submit the required forms.

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