Harriet Le, Author at Radiance Aesthetic Medicine

The Truth About PDO Thread Lifts: Real Before & Afters That Instagram Won’t Show You

Leave a Comment / PDO Threadlift / Harriet Le

In the age of Instagram filters and carefully curated social media content, it can be challenging to separate reality from idealized imagery, especially when it comes to aesthetic treatments. PDO thread lifts in Atlanta have exploded in popularity over the past few years, with countless before-and-after photos flooding social media showing dramatic transformations that seem almost too good to be true. And in many cases, they are. At Radiance Aesthetic Medicine, we believe in transparency and setting realistic expectations for our patients. That’s why we’re pulling back the curtain on PDO thread lifts to show you what real results look like and what you can expect from this innovative treatment. What Are PDO Thread Lifts? Before discussing the reality of results, it’s important to understand what PDO thread lifts are. PDO (polydioxanone) threads are absorbable surgical sutures that have been used in medicine for decades. When used for aesthetic purposes, these threads are inserted beneath the skin using fine needles or cannulas to lift and support sagging tissue. There are different types of PDO threads, each designed for specific purposes: The Instagram vs. Reality Gap Social media has created unrealistic expectations about what PDO thread lifts can achieve. Here’s what those perfect Instagram before-and-afters often don’t tell you: 1. Many Photos Show Immediate Post-Procedure Results Those dramatic transformations you see online typically capture the immediate post-procedure appearance when swelling enhances the lifting effect. This temporary swelling creates a more dramatic result that will settle within days. “What many people don’t realize is that there’s an initial ‘overcorrection’ with thread lifts,” notes Dr. Thompson. “The dramatic lift you see immediately after the procedure will soften by about 30% as swelling subsides and the threads settle into their final position.” 2. Lighting, Angles, and Filters Create Misleading Comparisons Professional photography techniques can dramatically alter the appearance of results: 3. The Most Dramatic Results Come from Combining Treatments Many of the most impressive before-and-afters show results from combination treatments, not threads alone. Providers often perform thread lifts alongside: Real Results: What PDO Threads Lifts Can Accomplish Now that we’ve addressed the misleading aspects of social media imagery, let’s talk about what realistic, satisfying results from PDO threads look like: Subtle but Noticeable Lifting In properly selected patients, PDO threads typically provide: While not dramatic, these improvements can significantly improve your overall appearance, creating a more refreshed, rested look without changing your fundamental features. Improved Skin Quality Over Time Beyond the mechanical lifting effect, PDO threads stimulate collagen production, which leads to: Duration of Results Realistic expectations for how long PDO thread results last: Who Benefits Most from PDO Threads? Another aspect that social media rarely addresses is patient selection. Not everyone is an ideal candidate for thread lifts, and understanding who benefits most helps set appropriate expectations. Ideal Candidates for PDO Threads The best results typically occur in patients with: When Threads Might Not Be Your Best Option PDO threads may not be ideal for: Making an Informed Decision About PDO Thread Lift If you’re considering PDO threads, here’s how to approach the decision with realistic expectations: Questions to Ask Your Provider Red Flags to Watch For Be cautious of providers who: PDO thread lifts can deliver beautiful, natural-looking results when approached with realistic expectations and performed by skilled providers on appropriate candidates. While they don’t create the dramatic transformations often portrayed on social media, they offer something many patients value more: subtle, natural-looking rejuvenation with minimal downtime. At Radiance Aesthetic Medicine, we believe in the power of PDO threads as part of a comprehensive approach to facial rejuvenation. By understanding what threads can and cannot achieve, you can make an informed decision about whether this treatment is right for you. When you choose to have a PDO thread lift in Atlanta, choose Radiance Aesthetic Medicine. We’ll work with you to create realistic expectations and a treatment plan designed to give you beautiful results that enhance your natural features without changing who you are.

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PRP Injections: The Celebrity Secret to Natural Healing That’s Now Mainstream

Leave a Comment / Microneedling / Harriet Le

For years, celebrities and elite athletes have had access to cutting-edge treatments that help them recover faster, look younger, and perform better. One of these once-exclusive therapies, Plasma-Rich Platelet(PRP) injections, has now become increasingly accessible to the general public, offering remarkable healing benefits without surgery or synthetic chemicals. At Radiance Aesthetic Medicine, we’re proud to offer this revolutionary PRP injection in Atlanta that harnesses your body’s healing capabilities to address a variety of concerns, from joint pain to facial rejuvenation. What Exactly Are PRP Injections? PRP therapy begins with a simple blood draw, similar to what you might experience during a routine check-up. But what happens next is where the charm begins. Your blood is placed in a centrifuge—a device that spins at high speeds to separate the various components of your blood. This process isolates the platelet plasma injections, which contain a concentrated amount of platelets, growth factors, and bioactive proteins that are essential for tissue repair and regeneration. How Celebrities Discovered PRP’s Potential The journey of PRP from anonymity to celebrity must-have treatment started in the world of sports medicine. Elite athletes like Tiger Woods, Rafael Nadal, and Kobe Bryant made headlines when they turned to PRP injections to recover from injuries that might otherwise have required surgery or months of rehabilitation. The treatment gained even more attention when celebrities began using PRP for aesthetic purposes. Kim Kardashian famously documented her “vampire facial” (a combination of PRP and microneedling) on social media. At the same time, actors like Angelina Jolie and Bar Refaeli have reportedly used PRP to maintain their youthful appearance without resorting to more invasive procedures. What attracted these high-profile individuals to PRP was not just its effectiveness but its natural approach. In an industry often criticized for promoting artificial enhancements, PRP offered something different: a way to enhance beauty and wellness using the body’s resources. The Science Behind PRP’s Injections Healing Power The effectiveness of this platelet plasma injection isn’t just celebrity hype—it’s backed by growing scientific evidence. Platelets play a crucial role in your body’s natural healing process. When you’re injured, platelets run to the site, casting growth factors and signaling proteins that: By delivering a concentrated dose of these healing factors directly to problem areas, PRP essentially supercharges your body’s natural repair mechanisms. Research has shown that PRP contains at least seven growth factors, including platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF), transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β), and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), among others. The Versatility of PRP Injections: From Joint Pain to Facial Rejuvenation One of the most remarkable aspects of PRP therapy is its versatility. At Radiance Aesthetic Medicine, we use PRP injections in Atlanta for an expansive range of applications: PRP for Joint Pain and Injuries For those suffering from joint pain, sports injuries, or chronic conditions like arthritis, platelet plasma injections offer a non-surgical alternative that addresses the root cause of pain rather than just masking symptoms. PRP injections can be particularly effective for: Many patients report significant pain reduction and improved function after PRP treatment, often allowing them to delay or avoid surgery altogether. PRP for Hair Restoration Hair loss affects millions of men and women, often causing significant emotional distress. PRP has emerged as a promising treatment for certain types of hair loss, particularly androgenetic alopecia (male and female pattern baldness). When injected into the scalp, PRP: Most patients require a series of treatments spaced 4-6 weeks apart, with maintenance sessions every 6-12 months. While results vary, many patients see observable improvements in hair density & thickness within 3-6 months. PRP Injections for Facial Rejuvenation Perhaps the most well-known application of PRP is for facial rejuvenation. Often called the “vampire injections or facial” or “PRP facelift,” these treatments use your body’s growth factors to improve skin texture, tone, and elasticity. Plasma-rich platelet injection can be used in several ways for facial rejuvenation: The results include: “What my patients love about PRP for facial rejuvenation is that the results look completely natural,” says Harriet Le. “There’s no risk of looking ‘overdone’ because we’re simply enhancing your body’s natural regenerative processes.” Who Is an Ideal Candidate for PRP Injections? PRP therapy is suitable for many people, but ideal candidates typically: PRP may not be suitable for individuals with certain blood disorders, active infections, skin diseases in the treatment area, or those taking blood-thinning medications that cannot be temporarily discontinued. The Mainstream Adoption of PRP: Why Now? Several factors have contributed to PRP’s transition from celebrity secret to mainstream treatment: Improved centrifuge technology and standardized protocols have made PRP preparation more efficient and consistent, allowing for more predictable results. Growing Scientific Evidence An expanding body of research supporting PRP’s effectiveness has increased physician confidence in recommending the treatment. Patient Demand for Natural Alternatives As more people seek treatments that work with their body’s natural processes rather than against them, PRP has gained popularity as a natural alternative to synthetic fillers, steroids, and surgery. Increased Accessibility More medical professionals are now trained in PRP techniques, making the treatment more widely available at a range of price points. The journey of PRP from exclusive celebrity treatment to mainstream therapy represents a significant shift in how we approach healing and rejuvenation. What was once available only to those with access to cutting-edge sports medicine or high-end aesthetic clinics is now an option for many more people seeking natural solutions for pain, hair loss, or aging concerns. At Radiance Aesthetic Medicine, we’re proud to be part of this evolution, offering PRP injections in Atlanta that harness your body’s healing potential to address a wide range of concerns. Whether you’re dealing with joint pain that’s limiting your activities, concerned about hair thinning, or looking for natural facial rejuvenation, PRP offers a solution that works with your body, not against it. The best part? Unlike many celebrity beauty secrets that remain inaccessible to most, PRP’s benefits are now available to you right here in Atlanta. It’s time to discover what your body’s healing factors can do when given

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9 Things No One Tells You About CoolSculpting: Real Results and What Actually to Expect

Leave a Comment / CoolSculpting / Harriet Le

CoolSculpting has become one of the most popular non-invasive fat reduction treatments in recent years, with countless before-and-after photos flooding social media and impressive marketing claims promising to freeze away stubborn fat. But behind the polished advertisements and carefully selected success stories, what can you expect from this procedure? At Radiance Aesthetic Medicine, we believe in providing our clients with honest, transparent information about all our treatments. If you’re considering CoolSculpting, here are ten things you should know that often don’t make it into the brochures. 1. Results Take Much Longer Than You Might Think One of the most common misconceptions about CoolSculpting is how quickly you’ll see results. While some marketing materials might suggest you’ll notice changes almost immediately, the reality is quite different. The Truth: Your body needs time to process and eliminate the frozen fat cells naturally. Most patients don’t see results until 3-4 weeks after fat-freezing treatment, with complete results taking 2-3 months to develop. Some patients may even need to wait up to 6 months to see their outcome. It is important to keep this timeline in mind, especially if you’re planning CoolSculpting for a specific event. Unlike treatments that offer immediate results, you’ll need to plan well in advance to ensure your results are visible in time. 2. The Procedure Can Be Uncomfortable—Even Painful for Some CoolSculpting is often marketed as a comfortable, even relaxing procedure where you can read a book or take a nap while the machine does its work. While this is true for some patients, it’s not a universal experience. The Truth: During the first 5-10 minutes of treatment, you’ll likely experience intense cold, pulling, tugging, pinching, and possibly cramping sensations as the applicator suctions to your skin and begins the cooling process. While this discomfort subsides as the area becomes numb, the post-treatment massage (a critical step for breaking up the frozen fat cells) can be quite uncomfortable or even painful for some patients. While these sensations are temporary and considered normal, they’re rarely mentioned in promotional materials. 3. One Session Is Usually Not Enough Perhaps one of the biggest surprises for many patients is learning that a single fat-freezing session typically won’t deliver the dramatic results they’re hoping for. The Truth: Most patients require 2-3 sessions per treatment area to achieve noticeable fat reduction. Each CoolSculpting session typically reduces fat in the treated area by approximately 20-25%, which means that for more significant fat sculpting, multiple treatments are necessary. This has important implications for both your timeline and budget. If you’re planning on treating multiple areas (like both love handles and your lower abdomen), you’re looking at potentially 4-6 sessions total, spaced about 4-8 weeks apart. That means your complete treatment plan could span 4-6 months from start to finish. 4. Not All Fat Responds Equally to CoolSculpting CoolSculpting works best on certain types of fat in specific areas of the body, but this nuance often gets lost in marketing materials that suggest it works equally well everywhere. The Truth: CoolSculpting is most efficacious on subcutaneous fat, which means pinchable—the kind you can grab between your fingers. It works particularly well in areas like: However, it’s less effective for: “I always assess whether a patient’s fat distribution makes them a good candidate for CoolSculpting,” explains Harriet Le. “Sometimes patients come in wanting to treat an area that simply won’t respond well to this technology, and in those cases, we recommend alternative treatments that will give them better results.” 5. The “Frozen Butter Stick” Effect Is Real One temporary side effect that few people talk about is how the treated area looks immediately after the applicator is removed. The Truth: When the applicator is removed after fat freezing treatment, the targeted fat often emerges as a solid, frozen mass in the exact shape of the applicator, often resembling a stick of butter. This frozen fat mass is then immediately massaged to break it up and help begin the fat elimination process. While this effect is temporary, and the area will return to a more normal appearance within 5-10 minutes, it can be startling if you’re not prepared for it. Some patients report feeling nauseated or lightheaded when they see or feel this frozen fat block. 6. Your Weight Fluctuations Can Affect Your Results CoolSculpting permanently eliminates treated fat cells, but this doesn’t mean your results are guaranteed to last forever, regardless of your lifestyle. The Truth: While the fat cells destroyed by CoolSculpting are gone for good, the remaining fat cells in your body can still expand if you gain weight. This means that significant weight gain after CoolSculpting can compromise your results, as the remaining fat cells in the treated area (and throughout your body) will enlarge. For optimal, long-lasting results, it’s important to maintain a stable weight through a healthy diet and regular exercise after your CoolSculpting treatment. This isn’t about restrictive dieting—it’s about lifestyle consistency to preserve your investment. 7. The CoolSculpting Cost Is Usually Higher Than Originally Expected CoolSculpting is frequently marketed with a per-applicator price that can seem reasonable at first glance, but the total cost of treatment often comes as a surprise to many patients. The Truth: A comprehensive CoolSculpting cost typically ranges between $2,000 and $4,000, depending on: 8. Results Can Be Subtle—Sometimes Too Subtle for Some Patients CoolSculpting marketing often features dramatic before-and-after photos showing significant fat reduction, but these typically represent the best possible outcomes rather than average results. The Truth: While CoolSculpting can produce noticeable fat reduction, the results are generally subtle, especially after just one session. The 20-25% fat sculpting per session translates to a difference of perhaps an inch or so in circumference. For many patients, this means clothes fit better, and they feel less self-conscious about certain areas, but it’s not typically a dramatic transformation that others will immediately notice. 9. The Provider’s Experience Makes a Significant Difference CoolSculpting may be a standardized procedure using FDA-cleared devices, but the skill and experience of your provider

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What Changes Can You Expect After A Glycolic Acid Peel Session?

Leave a Comment / Chemical Peel / Harriet Le

Glycolic acid peels are a popular choice for those seeking a fresh, revitalized complexion. Many of our patients come and ask for this. Most of the questions put by them consist of the following: what changes could I get through this? Will it change my complexion? Will it take my scars away? That’s why we have come up with this blog today to answer those questions. After your glycolic peel session, you can expect a range of changes in your skin’s texture and appearance. This glycolic chemical peel works by exfoliating the outer layer of dead skin cells, revealing a smoother and brighter surface. Whether it’s your first glycolic peel facial or you’re a repeat visitor, understanding the impacts can help you better prepare for your post-treatment journey to more radiant skin. So, let us start with the intro to the glycolic peels. Understanding Glycolic Acid Peels A glycolic acid peel is a popular cosmetic treatment that helps rejuvenate your skin by removing the outermost layer of dead skin cells. This non-invasive procedure is designed to improve skin texture, tone, and overall appearance. Glycolic acid is derived from sugar cane and is part of the alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) family. When you choose a glycolic peel facial, you can expect to experience a fresh look as it promotes cell turnover and encourages new skin growth. What is Glycolic Acid? Acid is a powerful exfoliant that effectively penetrates the skin’s surface. Glycolic acid is renowned for its ability to dissolve the bonds holding dead skin cells together, allowing for their gentle removal. This results in smoother, brighter skin and can help address common concerns such as fine lines, acne scars, and uneven skin tone. As an AHA, glycolic acid can also improve hydration by attracting moisture to the skin. How Glycolic Acid Peels Work About glycolic acid peels, they utilize a solution containing glycolic acid to exfoliate the skin. During the session, the acid is applied to your face for a specific duration, depending on your skin type and desired results. The acid helps accelerate the shedding of dead skin cells while stimulating new cell growth, revealing a healthier complexion underneath. For instance, after the glycolic chemical peel, you may observe a significant improvement in your skin’s texture as fine lines and other imperfections begin to diminish. The treatment not only brightens your skin tone but also assists in unclogging pores, leading to a reduction in acne breakouts. Regular sessions can drastically enhance your skin, giving you that radiant glow you desire. Immediate Effects After a Glycolic Acid Peel If you’ve recently undergone a glycolic acid peel session, you may notice several immediate effects on your skin. These effects are signs that the treatment is working to exfoliate and rejuvenate your skin. Expect some changes shortly after your session that can help you prepare for the recovery process. Skin Sensitivity and Redness Above all, skin sensitivity and redness are common after a glycolic acid peel. Your skin may feel warmer than usual and may appear slightly flushed. This reaction occurs as the acid penetrates the skin, initiating the exfoliation process. It’s important to be gentle during this period and avoid using harsh products that could exacerbate the sensitivity. Initial Dryness or Flakiness Skin dryness or flakiness may also occur following your glycolic peel facial. As the exfoliation process takes place, dead skin cells and impurities are sloughed away, revealing fresh skin underneath. This process often makes your skin feel tight and may lead to slight flaking, which is a normal reaction. Keeping your skin well-hydrated is key to managing this transition. Peel treatments utilizing glycolic acid effectively promote cell turnover, which can result in dryness or flakiness as your skin adjusts. It is vital to moisturize regularly to help your skin retain moisture during this phase. Additionally, using gentle, hydrating products will support your skin’s recovery and enhance the overall outcome of your glycolic chemical peel. Short-Term Changes to Expect Assuming you have just completed a glycolic acid peel session, you may notice several immediate changes in your skin. The initial effects, which can occur within a few hours or days, often include mild redness, slight swelling, and peeling or flaking as your skin begins to renew itself. These reactions are a normal part of the glycolic chemical peel process and indicate that your skin is responding effectively to the treatment. Skin Texture Improvement After undergoing a glycolic peel facial, you’ll likely experience a noticeable improvement in your skin texture. The exfoliation process helps remove dead skin cells, revealing a smoother and softer surface. This can enhance the overall feel of your skin and make it appear healthier and more vibrant. Brightening of Skin Tone Any glycolic acid peel session can lead to a brightening of your skin tone. Following the treatment, you may notice a more even complexion and a reduction in dullness, resulting in a vibrant glow. A glycolic acid peel works by exfoliating the upper layers of your skin, which can help diminish the appearance of dark spots and hyperpigmentation. As your skin sheds its outer layer, the fresh skin that emerges is more likely to reflect light evenly, resulting in a brighter appearance. This revitalizing effect can be especially beneficial if you are looking to rejuvenate your complexion and enhance your overall facial radiance. Long-Term Benefits of Regular Glycolic Acid Peels Now that you’ve experienced a glycolic acid peel, it’s important to consider the long-term benefits that come from making it a regular part of your skincare routine. Regular glycolic peels can enhance your skin’s overall health and appearance, promoting a more youthful and radiant complexion. By incorporating a glycolic peel facial into your regimen, you’re investing in your skin’s vitality and ensuring that you maintain the glow and clarity you desire. Reduction in Fine Lines and Wrinkles Behind the magic of a glycolic chemical peel lies its ability to stimulate collagen production and cell regeneration. As you continue with regular treatments, you may notice a significant

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Harriet Le

The Truth About PDO Thread Lifts: Real Before & Afters That Instagram Won’t Show You

PRP Injections: The Celebrity Secret to Natural Healing That’s Now Mainstream

9 Things No One Tells You About CoolSculpting: Real Results and What Actually to Expect

What Changes Can You Expect After A Glycolic Acid Peel Session?

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