Michael Stampar, MD (Punta Gorda, FL) and Edgar Fincher, MD (Los Angeles, CA) presented their experience with Pelleve`(Ellman International), a new radiofrequency procedure for the treatment of mild to moderate facial wrinkles and skin laxity, this past weekend in Beverly Hills.

Dr. Stampar shared his extensive and impressive experience with the technology. Patient satisfaction rates have been very high for both physicians. Radiofrequency (RF) energy is applied to the patient's facial skin resulting in gentle heating of the skin and underlying deeper tissues that results in collagen stimulation over time. Patients experience an immediate improvement in skin tone with elevation of brows, cheeks, and jowls as well as reduction of the depth of wrinkles during the 45 to 60 minute non-invasive procedure.

As with other RF technologies, additional improvement occurs over a 6 month period as more collagen is produced. Usually a series of 3 treatments separated by a minimum of 4 weeks are recommended for optimal, long lasting results. A maintenance treatment one to two years after the initial series helps to keep patients looking their best. Dr. Stampar prefers Pelleve` over Thermage because of consistant results with Pelleve`.

He stated that Accent XL can give similar results to Pelleve`, but Alma's Accent XL machine costs 3 to 4 times as much as Ellman's Pelleve`. Ellman International has a winner with it's new Pelleve`. Our office has offered the Accent XL technology over the past two years with excellent results, and will continue to use the non-invasive, effective treatment.

These are common general questions that are frequently asked about Accent XL treatment of fat and cellulite: 1: How much does Accent cost per area? Some practices measure the areas by the size of the palm of their hand and charge approx. $150.00 to $250.00 I have found that to be unrealistic, as the areas can vary in size and for maximum results a larger area needs to be covered. In general, bilateral saddle bags and under the buttocks (the banana) is about $500.00 each treatment. The face is $500.00 to $750.00 each treatment. Arms can range from $500.00 to $1000.00 depending on the coverage. It is always best to come in for an evaluation, and packaging is available for a further discount. 2: How many treatments will it take? It varies according to what we set for a goal and the condition of the skin as we begin, also the type of target, i.e.; fat, skin, cellulite? Hydration plays a key role in the success of the treatments. It is important to understand these will not be surgical results. We are working with changing the quality and integrity of the skin, and adipose tissue, not removing it. 3: Dose ethnicity play a role? No 4: Does the type of fat or when it developed make a difference? Yes. This can be evaluated at the consultation. "Baby fat" or "menopausal fat" respond as does cellulite and positional fat, the main characteristic of fat that responds the fastest is when it is more hydrated. 5: How long does it last? There are studies that indicate tissue changes that last into the 16th month of evaluation though ultra-sonography, with evidence that there is ongoing collagen regeneration. As we age and face ongoing environmental factors, it is likely that most tissue will continue to age. Cellulite has other variables that will affect the longevity of the treatment, but with diet and exercise, a touch up treatment every 16 months is recommended. 6: Are there any side effects? Some people experience slight nausea, and or diarrhea when the abdomen is treated, as well as potential break through bleeding between a menstrual cycle. There have been no complications or side effects in our practice that has been noted as ongoing or permanent. 7: Who is a good candidate? Anyone who would like to improve the integrity of their skin and accomplish a more youthful look, as well as those who have from minimal to extreme cellulite. Each person is consulted individually as to what will help them be more successful in achieving their goals. Diet and exercise are discussed. NOTHING, will ever replace healthy nutrition. All healthy supplementation and eating habits that are incorporated will enhance the success of the treatment. 8: Is there a guarantee? No, Places that offer guarantees actually charge for them like an insurance policy. You pay more up front and then they will give you more treatments, if you are not happy. Yet

We have used Accent XL in my practice for the past year without any complications. When performed properly, the Accent XL cellulite treatment is very safe, and patient satisfaction rates have been very high. If too extensive of a treatment is performed at one time, some patients may complain of short lasting nausea due to the break down of too many fat cells. Our nurse who performs the treatment has been treating patients for over two years without any problems. As with all aesthetic treatments, the results and complication rates are dependent on the physician or nurse performing the treatment,as well as the technologythe technology. Therefore choose your practice most carefully, particularly in today's market place where everyone from podiatrists to attorneys are running med-spas with a "supervising physician".

Accent XL is a non-invasive technology that uses radio waves in a controlled fashion to apply heat therapy that tightens the skin on the face and body. The treatment is comfortable, quick, and pain free (it feels like a warm to hot massage). It takes a series of treatments (usually five treatments at two week intervals) to see the full benefits. There is no down time at all. It helps tighten and firm any loose, wrinkled or dimpled skin anywhere on the body. It is used to tighten skin on the face, jowls, neck, and upper arms. It is effective in treating the thighs, buttocks, and abdomen. It works well on postnatal and post-surgical abdomens as well. Depending on the areas treated, the treatments last from 15 to 60 minutes. Over time the skin feels tighter, thicker, and smoother because of collagen and elastin stimulation. Patients often see immediate results, but over time the results improve even more. Once you have recieved a series of treatments, results are long lasting as long as you maintain your diet and exercise. Additionally, a single once a year maintenance treatment adds to long term success. The treatment is FDA approved and safe. Accent XL is the perfect treatment for my patients who want to revitalize their skin and body without undergoing surgery, injections, or downtime. When combined with other non-invasive skin rejuvenating procedures such as Fraxel or Pixel, results are superb.