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What Areas Can CoolSculpting Treat?

Woman in white underwear has nice proportions after removing unwanted fat deposits with CoolSculpting.

Despite regular exercise and a healthy diet, you may still notice stubborn fat that does not respond to these lifestyle changes. CoolSculpting offers a non-surgical solution for reducing these localized fat deposits.

At her Westlake practice near Cleveland, Renuka Diwan, MD, FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist and fellowship-trained dermatologic surgeon, helps patients like you determine whether CoolSculpting is appropriate for their goals and body type through careful evaluation and personalized treatment planning.

Some of the most popular treatment areas include:

Upper and Lower Abdomen

The abdomen is one of the most commonly treated areas. Many patients struggle with fullness in the upper or lower abdomen despite regular exercise. CoolSculpting can reduce fat in these regions, helping to create a flatter, more defined contour over time.

Flanks (Love Handles)

Fat along the sides of the waist (often referred to as love handles) can be particularly resistant to diet and exercise. CoolSculpting is well-suited for this area, allowing for improved waistline definition without surgery or downtime.

Under the Chin

Fat under the chin, or “double chin”, can affect the profile regardless of age or weight. CoolSculpting can be used to reduce this area, helping to create a more defined jawline. Dr. Diwan evaluates whether this approach or another treatment, such as liposuction or Kybella, would provide the most effective resul

Upper Arms and thighs

Fat in the upper arms can be difficult to address with exercise alone. CoolSculpting may help reduce localized fullness, improving arm contour in a gradual, natural way.

Both inner and outer thighs can be treated with CoolSculpting. Patients often seek improvement in these areas to achieve smoother contours and reduce friction or fullness that affects clothing fit.

Back and Bra Line

Excess fat along the upper back or bra line can create bulging that is noticeable in fitted clothing. CoolSculpting can target these areas to create a smoother silhouette.

Choosing the Right Approach

While CoolSculpting is effective for localized fat deposits, it is not a weight-loss procedure. Patients who are close to their ideal weight and seeking contour improvement tend to see the best results. During a consultation, Dr. Diwan assesses the amunt of fat, skin quality, and overall goals to determine whether CoolSculpting is appropriate.

If you are interested in targeting stubborn fat without surgery, schedule a consultation with Dr. Renuka Diwan in Westlake, OH, near Bay Village. Her experience in both surgical and non-surgical body contouring allows her to recommend the most effective option for each patient. Call (440) 871-9832 or request an appointment online to get started.

Scar Revision for the Face vs. the Body: What Changes?

Woman treats a scar on her shoulder with a laser treatment.

Scars can develop anywhere on the body, but not all scars are treated the same way. The location of a scar plays a significant role in determining the most appropriate revision approach.

At her Westlake practice near Cleveland, Renuka Diwan, MD, FAAD, a Board-Certified Dermatologist and fellowship-trained dermatologic surgeon, customizes scar revision treatments based on several factors. Understanding how facial scars differ from body scars can help you make informed decisions about your treatment.

Differences in Skin Thickness and Healing

Facial skin is generally thinner and has a richer blood supply than skin on many areas of the body. This often allows facial scars to heal more favorably and respond well to treatments such as laser resurfacing, dermal fillers for depressed scars, or precise surgical revision.

Body skin, particularly on the chest, shoulders, and back, is thicker and under more tension. These factors can increase the likelihood of raised or hypertrophic scarring, which may require corticosteroid injections, laser therapy, or a combination approach.

Cosmetic Visibility and Aesthetic Goals

Scars on the face are typically more noticeable and carry greater cosmetic concern. Because facial features are central to overall appearance, treatment planning emphasizes subtle blending and natural integration with surrounding skin. Dr. Diwan carefully evaluates how light reflects off the skin, how the scar aligns with natural facial contours, and whether repositioning may improve camouflage.

Body scars may be less visible in daily life, but they can still cause discomfort or self-consciousness. In these cases, treatment goals often center on flattening raised scars, improving color mismatch, and smoothing texture.

Treatment Techniques May Differ

Facial scars often respond well to fractional laser resurfacing or filler placement for contour correction. On the body, particularly in high-tension areas, surgical scar revision combined with laser therapy may provide better results. Keloid-prone areas such as the shoulders may require a more conservative, staged treatment plan.

Personalized Expertise Matters

With extensive training in dermatologic surgery and cosmetic procedures, Dr. Diwan evaluates each scar individually. Her approach emphasizes realistic expectations, safety, and natural improvement rather than aggressive overcorrection. By tailoring treatment to the scar’s location and characteristics, she helps patients achieve smoother, more refined results.

If you are concerned about a facial or body scar, schedule a consultation with Dr. Renuka Diwan in Westlake, OH, near Cleveland. Contact The Laser & Skin Surgery Center at (440) 871-9832 to discuss personalized scar revision options.

5 Skin Concerns Chemical Peels Treat Especially Well

Chemical peels remain a trusted, effective option for improving a wide range of skin concerns when performed by an experienced dermatologist. At her Westlake practice, Dr. Renuka Diwan, MD, FAAD, a Board-Certified Dermatologist and fellowship-trained dermatologic surgeon, uses carefully selected chemical peel formulations to improve skin tone, texture, and overall clarity while prioritizing safety and natural results.

Here are five skin concerns that respond particularly well to professional chemical peel treatments:

Uneven Skin Tone and Sun Damage

Repeated sun exposure can lead to dark spots, blotchiness, and uneven pigmentation. Chemical peels help exfoliate damaged surface layers, allowing clearer, more evenly toned skin to emerge. Peels can be customized to safely address discoloration.

Dull, Rough Skin Texture

As your skin ages, cell turnover slows, leading to a rough or lackluster appearance. Chemical peels accelerate exfoliation, revealing smoother, brighter skin underneath. You may notice improved radiance and softness within days of treatment.

Enlarged Pores and Acne

Chemical peels can address visible pores and acne by exfoliating your skin’s surface and encouraging tighter, smoother skin over time. By improving cell turnover and reducing pore congestion, peels can make your pores appear smaller and your skin more refined. Peels can improve acne control for patients who want to acvoid antibiotics as well as patients who are on antibiotics. Dr. Diwan selects peels to help you achieve clearer, more even-looking skin.

Fine Lines and Early Signs of Aging

While chemical peels cannot lift sagging skin, peels can soften fine lines caused by sun damage and aging. By stimulating new cell growth and collagen production, peels can improve your skin’s smoothness and firmness over time.

Expert Care Makes the Difference

Dr. Diwan’s extensive training in cosmetic dermatology and dermatologic surgery allows her to select the appropriate peel and timing for each patient. Her conservative, evidence-based approach ensures treatments are chosen for effectiveness and long-term skin health — not “trends.”

If you’re struggling with one or more of these skin concerns, a consultation with Dr. Renuka Diwan can help determine whether a chemical peel or another cosmetic treatment is the right option for you. To schedule an appointment at our Westlake, Ohio office near Bay Village, call (440) 871-9832 or contact us online.

Laser Resurfacing for Aging Skin: What It Can and Can’t Improve

Laser resurfacing remains one of the most effective ways to address visible signs of aging and restore healthier, more radiant and even skin. At The Laser & Skin Surgery Center in Westlake, OH, Dr. Renuka Diwan, MD, FAAD, a Board-Certified Dermatologist and fellowship-trained dermatologic surgeon, performs laser resurfacing with a focus on safety, precision, and natural-looking results. Laser technology offers more control and finesse than other technologies used for skin resurfacing can make a noticeable difference. Understanding what this treatment can (and cannot) improve helps set realistic expectations.

What Laser Resurfacing Can Improve

Fine Lines and Early Wrinkles

Laser resurfacing is highly effective for softening crepey lines around the eyes and mouth, and other parts of the face. By stimulating new collagen, the treatment helps the skin appear smoother and more refreshed.

Sun Damage and Uneven Pigmentation

Visible signs of sun damage including sunspots and uneven tone, often improve extremely well with laser resurfacing. The laser targets damaged skin cells, allowing healthier, more even skin to emerge.

Texture Irregularities and Rough Skin

As a result of genetic predisposition or aging, the skin may develop benign (non-cancerous ) growths or pre-cancers that can be treated by CO2 laser resurfacing. Laser resurfacing shrinks or eliminates growths and removes damaged outer layers, revealing healthier, more even, softer, brighter skin underneath. Patients often notice an improvement in radiance (glow) in the weeks following treatment.

Enlarged Pores

Increased pore size is common with age, as collagen support around the pores diminishes. By stimulating colllagen formation, conservative laser resufacing can help mimize the appearance of enlarged pores, making this an added bonus.

Superficial Acne Scarring

Shallow scars often resolve or look smoother after treatment. While deeper scars may require a combination approach, laser resurfacing is a strong option for improving mild to moderate textural scarring.

What Laser Resurfacing Cannot Improve

Significant Skin Laxity

Although the treatment boosts collagen and elastin production, and provides some skin tightening, sit cannot replace the results of procedures like facelifts that reposition skin. Patients with significant skin laxity or jowling may benefit from surgical options instead or in addition.

Deep Wrinkles and Folds

Deep nasolabial folds that form as result of sagging and loss of supporting tisssue under the skin are best addressed by fillers or lifting surgery by itself or combined with fillers. Laser resurfacing does not correct them as effectively.

Broken Blood Vessels or Deep Pigmentation Issues

There may be some improvement of small capillaries and superficial pigmentation but are better addressed with other more specifically targeted lasers. During a consultation, Dr. Diwan evaluates whether laser resurfacing alone or another treatment like IPL or Pico laser or laser treatment of blood vesseis is most appropriate.

Expertise You Can Trust

With extensive training in dermatologic surgery and decades of experience, Dr. Diwan xsafely performs every laser resurfacing treatment in our ofice with local anesthetic (with oral medication for comfort, when needed) and customizes every resurfacing treatment to match your unique skin. Her careful approach ensures natural results that enhance your skin’s health and appearance.

To learn whether laser resurfacing is right for you, schedule a consultation with Dr. Renuka Diwan in Westlake, OH, by calling (440) 871-9832 or contacting our office online.

5 Common Skin Concerns for Men — And How to Treat Them

More men than ever are seeking professional dermatologic care to address skin concerns that affect confidence, appearance, and long-term skin health. At her Westlake, OH practice near Bay Village, Dr. Renuka Diwan, MD, FAAD provides evidence-based treatments tailored to the unique needs of male skin. As a Board-Certified Dermatologist and fellowship-trained dermatologic surgeon, she offers solutions that deliver natural-looking results without changing a patient’s individual character or features.

Below are some of the most common skin concerns men face—and the treatments that can help.

1. Sun Damage and Uneven Skin Tone

Years of outdoor activity, sports, or limited sunscreen use can lead to dark spots, rough texture, and dullness. Men often notice these changes on the face, neck, ears, and scalp. Laser treatments of sun spots (Pico laser), Hydrafacials, and chemical peels can improve clarity and rejuvenate the complexion. With Dr. Diwan’s expertise in laser and cosmetic dermatology, each treatment plan is customized for the patient’s skin type and lifestyle.

2. Acne Scarring and Texture Irregularities

Acne in adolescence or adulthood can leave behind visible scars and uneven texture. Men commonly seek options that offer measurable improvement without long downtimes. Microneedling, fractional laser resurfacing and dermal fillers are effective methods to smooth and refine the skin. Dr. Diwan evaluates the type and depth of scarring to determine the best approach or combination of treatments.

3. Lines, Wrinkles, and Early Aging

Men may begin to notice etched lines, tired-looking skin, or loss of firmness as early as their thirties or forties. Neuromodulators, like Botox, and fillers can soften expression lines. Fillers restore subtle volume in areas that appear flattened or hollow. Many male patients appreciate these treatments because they offer quiet, natural enhancement and enhance masculine definition.

4. Enlarged Pores, Oil glands and Oily Skin

Male skin tends to be thicker and oilier, contributing to prominent pores and shine. Over time enlargemnt of oil glands cause bumps to appear on the facial skin. Procedures such as microneedling with microinfusions, and medical-grade skincare can reduce pore size and balance the skin’s surface. These treatments help create a more polished appearance. Treatment of enlarged oil gland bumps restores a smoother contour to the skin surface.

5. Stubborn Fat Under the Chin

Fullness beneath the chin is a common concern for men regardless of age or weight. Liposuction performed with the tumescent technique can refine the jawline and create a stronger profile with a single treatment. Dr Diwan’s surgical training ensures safe and precise fat removal for natural contour enhancement. Kybella injections can also destroy unwanted submental fat.

Schedule a Consultation

If you are looking to improve one or more of these concerns, a consultation with Dr. Renuka Diwan in Westlake, OH, can help you determine the most effective treatment options. Contact our office at (440) 871-9832 to schedule your personalized evaluation.

Want Radiant Holiday Skin? Try AquaGold Microneedling Facial

The holidays are a time for celebration, connection, and countless photos. If you want to look fresh, bright, and confident this season, a quick-recovery skin treatment like AquaGold Microneedling (also known as microneedling with microinfusions or the “Glass Skin Facial”) can help your complexion glow.

At her Westlake practice near Cleveland, Dr. Renuka Diwan, MD, FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist and fellowship-trained dermatologic surgeon, offers this innovative procedure to help you achieve refreshed, more luminous skin with no downtime.

What Makes AquaGold Microneedling Unique

While traditional microneedling uses fine needles to stimulate collagen, AquaGold Microneedling adds a customized serum directly into the skin through the microchannels created by microneedling. Each vial is tailored to your skin’s needs and may include hyaluronic acid, tiny amounts of neuromodulator and other actives as needed for hydration, refined pores, redness, oiliness and skin texture. The result is a dewy, polished complexion that looks beautiful both bare and under makeup — perfect for holiday gatherings and photos.

Immediate Radiance, Minimal Downtime

One of the main advantages of the AquaGold treatment is its quick results. Most patients notice a smoother, plumper appearance in 24 hours and improves over 2 weeks. Mild redness may occur right after the procedure, but it typically resolves within 24 hours. Because the treatment is gentle, it can be performed just days before major events, making it a popular pre-holiday facial option.

Long-Term Skin Benefits

While the treatment provides an instant glow, the micro-channels created by the ultra-fine needles also stimulate collagen production over time. This helps improve fine lines and mild textural concerns long after the holidays have passed. Regular treatments can help maintain a more youthful, hydrated appearance year-round.

Schedule Your Holiday Glow Treatment

Dr. Diwan personally performs microinfusion with microneedling procedures in her Westlake office, combining medical precision with an artistic approach. With over three decades of experience in cosmetic dermatology and dermatologic surgery, she carefully evaluates each patient’s skin type, seasonal needs, and lifestyle to determine the ideal serum blend and treatment plan. Her focus on safety, subtlety, and natural beauty has earned her the trust of patients throughout Cleveland and Northeast Ohio.

If you’re hoping to look radiant for upcoming celebrations, consider an AquaGold Microneedling Facial. Contact our office at (440) 871-9832 to schedule your appointment. With expert care and a personalized approach, you can greet the holidays with confidence and glowing, camera-ready skin.

5 Signs You’re Ready for Liposuction

Liposuction remains one of the most effective ways to remove stubborn fat and refine body contours when diet and exercise aren’t enough. Located near Cleveland, Dr. Renuka Diwan, MD, FAAD offers personalized liposuction consultations and treatment at her Westlake, Ohio practice. With decades of experience in cosmetic dermatology and dermatologic surgery, Dr. Diwan can help you determine whether liposuction is the right step for your goals and body type.

Here are five signs you may be ready for this contouring procedure:

1. You’re At or Near Your Ideal Body Weight and in good health

Liposuction is best suited for those who are close to their target weight but frustrated with localized fat pockets that won’t budge. It is not a weight-loss solution, but rather a way to fine-tune specific areas like your double chin, abdomen, flanks, inner knees, arms or outer thighs. It is also important that you are in good health and not on anti-coagulants.

2. You Have Persistent Fat in Specific Areas

Genetics often play a role in where fat is stored — and sometimes, no amount of healthy eating or exercise seems to change it. Liposuction is designed to remove fat cells from those stubborn areas, creating smoother, more balanced contours.

3. Your Skin Has Good Elasticity

Ideal candidates for liposuction have skin that can contract well after the fat is removed. This helps achieve a natural-looking result. During your consultation, Dr. Diwan evaluates your skin tone and elasticity to determine whether additional tightening procedures may be beneficial.

4. You’re Committed to Maintaining Results

Fat cells removed during liposuction do not return, but remaining cells can still expand with weight gain. If you are committed to a healthy lifestyle and maintaining a stable weight, you are more likely to achieve long-lasting results.

5. You’ve Had a Consultation with an Experienced Provider

Dr. Diwan personally meets with each patient to examine the treatment areas, discuss expectations, and review any underlying health conditions. Her advanced surgical training and conservative, safety-first approach ensure that every treatment plan is tailored to each individual and medically appropriate.

Schedule Your Liposuction Consultation in Westlake

If you’re considering liposuction, turn to Dr. Renuka Diwan, a board-certified dermatologist and fellowship-trained dermatologic surgeon who has practiced dermatologic surgery and cosmetic dermatology since the early ’90s. Her reputation for careful technique and natural-looking results makes her a trusted provider throughout Cleveland and Northeast Ohio. To schedule a personal consultation, contact (440) 871-9832. We look forward to helping you achieve your aesthetic goals with precision and care.

Sclerotherapy: Your Timeline for Healing and Results

Sclerotherapy is a well-established treatment for spider veins and small varicose veins on the legs, offering safe, effective results with minimal downtime. If you are considering trying this treatment for yourself, you probably want to know when you’ll see improvements and what the recovery looks like.

At her Westlake practice, near Cleveland, board-certified dermatologist and fellowship-trained dermatologic surgeon Dr. Renuka Diwan performs sclerotherapy with a focus on both comfort and successful outcomes. Her experience in cosmetic dermatology and dermatologic surgery ensures that patients receive expert care throughout.

Immediate Post-Treatment Experience

Right after sclerotherapy, it’s normal to experience mild redness, swelling, or a slight stinging sensation at the injection sites. Some veins may appear darker or more visible initially, which is part of the natural response to sclerotherapy. Compression stockings are typically recommended and should be worn immediately after sclerotherapy, as directed, to support circulation and help the treated veins close properly.

If you are like most patients, you will feel well enough to return to work or light daily activities the same day. Walking is encouraged, but high-impact exercise and hot baths should be avoided for a few days. Sun exposure should be avoided for two weeks after completing slserotherapy.

Week-by-Week Recovery Timeline

During the first week, you can expect small circular bruises, tenderness, or firmness along the treated veins. These symptoms typically fade on their own. Remember that veins may look worse before they look better — this is a temporary and expected part of the healing process.

By weeks two through four, most visible effects have resolved, and the veins may begin to fade. However, full results can take six weeks or longer depending on the size of the veins and whether multiple sessions are needed.

When to Expect Final Results

While some veins begin fading within a few weeks, you can expect to see significant improvement by the six week mark. In some cases, repeat treatments may be recommended for optimal results, especially when treating larger clusters of veins.

Why Professional Expertise Matters

Dr. Diwan brings decades of experience and advanced training in procedural dermatology to each treatment. She tailors sclerotherapy plans to each patient’s vein size, skin condition, and medical history for safe, effective care. Her attention to post-treatment instructions also helps ensure a smoother recovery and more predictable outcomes.

If you’re considering sclerotherapy, schedule a consultation with Dr. Diwan to learn what kind of results you can expect and how to support your skin’s healing after treatment. Contact our office in Westlake, OH at 440-871-9832 today.

What Kind of Scars Can Be Improved with Revision Procedures?

Scars from acne, surgery, or injury can persist long after the skin has healed, often affecting confidence and appearance. Fortunately, advanced scar revision procedures can significantly improve their visibility. In Westlake, Ohio, patients trust Laser and Skin Surgery Center for customized treatments that target a wide range of scars.

Renuka Diwan MD, FAAD, is a Board-Certified Dermatologist with over 30 years of experience and advanced fellowship training in dermatologic and cosmetic surgery. She has served as Director of Dermatologic Surgery at Johns Hopkins Hospital and is currently a clinical assistant professor at Case Western Reserve University, bringing unmatched expertise to every patient consultation and scar treatment plan.

What Scar Revision Can Address

Scar revision refers to treatments that reduce the appearance of existing scars. The goal is to make them less noticeable by refining their texture, shape, or color, so they blend more naturally with the surrounding skin as much as possible.

Scars that typically respond well to revision include:

Acne scars that create uneven or pitted skin surfaces
Surgical scars that are raised, indented, or darker
Traumatic scars resulting from accidents or deep cuts
Keloid scars that grow beyond the original wound site
Hypertrophic scars that are thick but remain within the injury area

Techniques Used to Improve Scars

Renuka Diwan, MD, FAAD, offers a range of advanced treatment methods tailored to each patient’s specific needs. Some of the most effective options include:

Cortisone-based injections to flatten thick or raised scars
Fillers to lift sunken scars and restore evenness to the skin
Surgical approaches to revise or reposition scars for a more discreet appearance
Fractional CO2 laser resurfacing for smoother texture and reduced discoloration
Targeted laser therapy to address redness and raised areas
Microneedling techniques that promote collagen production and surface refinement

These procedures are often combined to achieve the most natural-looking results, depending on the type and severity of the scar.

Factors That May Affect Eligibility

While many individuals are good candidates for scar revision, certain health conditions or lifestyle factors such as smoking, vaping and sun exposure may impact the outcomes. People currently on blood-thinning medications that cannot be adjusted, those with uncontrolled medical issues that slow healing or individuals with a history of difficult scarring may require special consideration.

A thorough consultation allows Dr. Diwan to review each patient’s medical background and develop a safe, personalized plan.

Smooth and Refine Scars in Westlake, OH

Improving the appearance of scars is a gradual process, with results developing over time. While complete removal may not be possible, noticeable enhancements in texture, color, and overall visibility can be achieved with the right treatment plan.

If you are ready to feel more confident in your skin, now is the time to explore your options. To schedule your consultation, call 440-871-9832. A smoother, more even complexion is within reach with expert care and advanced techniques.

Laser Skin Resurfacing vs. Microneedling: Which Is Right for You?

When it comes to improving skin texture, tone, and overall appearance, both laser skin resurfacing and microneedling are effective and well-established options. Patients today are fortunate to have access to a range of professional treatments, but understanding which procedure suits your skin best can be a challenge.

At her Westlake practice, board-certified dermatologist and fellowship-trained dermatologic surgeon Dr. Renuka Diwan offers both options, taking care to recommend only what is appropriate and effective for you. With more than three decades of experience, Dr. Diwan emphasizes safety, natural-looking results, and careful evaluation of emerging technologies.

What Is Laser Skin Resurfacing?

Laser skin resurfacing uses focused beams of laser energy to remove microscopic columns of skin (fractional) or layers of skin (non-fractional), stimulate collagen production, and reduce signs of aging, sun damage, scarring, and uneven tone. Different types of lasers can be used depending on how aggressive the treatment needs to be. Laser resurfacing is often ideal for targeting deeper wrinkles, more significant sun damage, and moderate to severe texture issues.

What Is Microneedling?

Microneedling is a minimally invasive procedure that uses fine needles to create controlled micro-injuries in the skin. This stimulates your body’s natural healing process and boosts collagen and elastin production. Microneedling is particularly beneficial for fine lines, large pores, and acne scars, and it typically involves less downtime than laser resurfacing. It can also be performed with growth factors, and combined with radiofrequency to enhance results.

Choosing the Right Treatment

The decision between microneedling and laser resurfacing depends on several factors:

Skin tone and type: Some lasers are not ideal for darker skin tones due to the risk of pigmentation changes, while microneedling is generally safe for most skin types.
Downtime tolerance: Laser resurfacing may involve several days of healing, redness and peeling, whereas microneedling typically results in mild redness for a day or two.
Treatment goals: For more advanced skin aging or deeper scars, laser resurfacing may be more effective. Microneedling can be a better option for subtle rejuvenation and early signs of aging.

Both procedures are backed by clinical research and when performed by skilled providers in a medical setting are very effective treatments. A consultation can help determine which approach best suits your skin condition and lifestyle.

Expert Care in a Thoughtful Setting

Dr. Diwan brings a strong background, with fellowship training in Procedural Dermatology at UCSF Medical Center and her experience as DIrector of Dermatologic Surgery at Johns Hopkins Hospital, and clinical judgment honed over 35 years’ experience, to every procedure. She personally sees all patients for consultation and follow-up, ensuring continuity and attention to detail.

To learn which treatment may be right for your skin, schedule a consultation with Dr. Diwan at her Westlake office, just minutes from Cleveland. Call 440-871-9832.