ReLume™ is the first light-based device of it’s kind to receive FDA approval to minimize the appearance of skin conditions where pigment (skin color) has been lost. ReLume™ therapy is an accurate, reliable, and convenient method to treat scars, stretch marks, vitiligo, burns, resurfaced skin and other dermalogical conditions that are white. This no downtime procedure is painless and safe for all skin types and body areas with the exception of the eyes.

How Does ReLume™ Work?

The ReLume™ system delivers highly concentrated therapeutic ultraviolet-B (UVB) light. This concentration of light stimulates the production of melanin to darken the lost pigment in the affected area so it more closely matches the surrounding healthy skin.

What Is The Procedure Like And Does It Hurt?

The procedure is performed at your doctor’s office and can be administered during a patient's lunch hour. The procedure is fast, non-invasive and gentle. A hand piece is used to produce a uniform, circular beam that is emitted through the output lens. Light is transmitted from the console to the hand piece onto the skin. Patients experience no  discomfort during the procedure and can resume normal daily activities immediately.

How Many Treatments Will I Need?

The number of treatments to achieve re-pigmentation varies in each patient, although typically, 10 – 20 treatments are necessary and should be spaced weekly or bi-weekly. Maintenance treatments are usually needed to retain the pigmentation and should be performed on a monthly basis.

What Results Can I Expect After Treatment?

Results vary from patient to patient and may not be immediate. Results from Relume scar and stretch mark treatments are generally progressive and appear over time. If you respond to the first treatment, your result will usually be as good as your second treatment and almost as good on successive treatments. Newer and shallower stretch marks and scars respond better than older, deeper scars and stretch marks. 

An actual patient of Dr. Nestor   Before Relume™ Treatment After Relume™ Treatment

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Scars are formed whenever multiple layers of skin are injured. Accidents, surgery, burn and even acne can cause scarring.

The exact cause of stretch marks is not known, but they are probably a result of a breakdown of collagen and elastin under the skin’s surface. The most common causes of stretch marks are pregnancy, body-building and weight loss. Parts of the body most frequently affected by stretch marks include breasts, abdomen, tights groin and buttocks.

How Does Scar and Stretch Mark Removal Work?

In the past, cryosurgery (freezing), excision, steroid injections, creams and ointments were standard treatments for the removal of scars and stretch marks. Today, several new techniques using lasers are available. The energy from the laser stimulates the skin under the scar to produce collagen. The skin thickens until it resembles the surrounding normal tissue.

Anesthesia is usually not required. Some patients experience slight stinting when the laser is applied to the skin. Multiple treatments may be necessary to achieve the desired result. About 70% of patients notice a marked improvement. To enhance the effect of the laser treatment, your physician may recommend glycolic acid or tretinoin cream both before and after treatment.

Am I a Good Candidate for Scar and Stretch Mark Removal?

New, shallow scars and stretch marks respond better to treatment than deeper, older scars and stretch marks. Candidates with fair complexions tend to see better results. There is a risk of discoloration in patients with darker skin tones. Your physician will review your medical history, age, skin type, pigmentation, and consider your desired result to determine the best course of treatment for you.

What Can I Expect After Scar and Stretch Mark Removal?

The treated area may be red for up to two weeks, but there should not be any other discoloration or markings on the skin. The concentrated laser does not affect surrounding tissue. Treated areas also tend to improve for three to six months following treatment. Some patients who do not see immediate result see up to 50% improvement at their six-month checkup.

An actual patient of Dr. Nestor   Before Scar Removal Treatment After Scar Removal Treatment

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SmartLipo™ is a new laser-assisted liposuction technique that simultaneously destroys fat cells and tightens skin. FDA-approved SmartLipo offers a faster, safer and less invasive alternative to other liposuction methods, with fewer side effects and a shorter recovery time.

SmartLipo™ achieves dramatic results by delivering Nd:YAG laser energy through a small incision to localized fat deposits on the face and body. The laser not only ruptures fat cells, which then drain away harmlessly, it also coagulates tissue on contact, stimulating collagen production for tighter skin and resulting in less bleeding. Fat removal can usually be done in a single 45- to 60-minute treatment with local anesthesia.

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