How Soon Can I See CoolSculpting Results?

Woman in underwear hugs her smooth legs while sitting on the couch after CoolSculpting CoolSculpting is a popular, non-invasive body contouring treatment designed to target and reduce fat in stubborn areas. At the Laser & Skin Surgery Center, Dr. Renuka Diwan, a board-certified dermatologist with years of experience in cosmetic dermatology, leads our team in providing exceptional care and customized treatment plans. With her expertise, patients can trust they are in capable hands as they work toward achieving their aesthetic goals.

CoolSculpting works by freezing fat cells, a process called cryolipolysis, which gradually eliminates them from the body. But how soon can you expect to see results?

What to Expect After CoolSculpting

CoolSculpting doesn’t provide immediate results, as it relies on the body’s natural healing processes to remove the treated fat cells. After your treatment session, the frozen fat cells are gradually broken down and eliminated by your lymphatic system. This process takes time, so patience is key when evaluating your results.

Timeline for Results

Most patients start to notice subtle changes about three weeks after their CoolSculpting treatment. However, more significant results typically appear around the two-month mark. The body continues to flush out fat cells for up to six months, providing a gradual improvement in contour and shape. The exact timeline can vary depending on factors such as the treated area, your metabolism, and how closely you follow any post-treatment instructions provided by our team.

Enhancing Your Results

To maximize your CoolSculpting outcomes, maintaining a healthy lifestyle is essential. Staying hydrated, eating a balanced diet, and incorporating regular exercise into your routine can support your body’s fat-elimination process and help you sustain your improved figure. Dr. Diwan and our team are available to provide personalized advice on how to enhance your results. We recommend at least two CoolSculpting treatments to achieve the desired results.

Learn More About CoolSculpting

If you’re considering CoolSculpting and want to know more about how it works or whether it’s the right option for you, schedule a consultation with Dr. Renuka Diwan at the Laser & Skin Surgery Center in Westlake, OH. Dr. Diwan’s commitment to safety and offering treatments that are most effective rather than “trendy” make her one of Cleveland’s most trusted aesthetic doctors.  Contact us at 440-871-9832.

5 Ways Your Neck Changes As You Age

Middle aged woman with sleek neck contours following neck lift rejuvenation surgery in Cleveland, Ohio Aging affects every part of the body, including the neck. While the face often gets the most attention in anti-aging treatments, the neck can reveal the passage of time just as prominently. Fortunately, Dr. Renuka Diwan, a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist, specializes in solutions for a more youthful neck. Here are five ways your neck changes as you age—and how a neck treatments can help rejuvenate teh appearance of your neck.

1. Skin Laxity Develops


Collagen and elastin production decrease with age, causing the skin to lose its firmness and elasticity. This often results in loose, sagging skin on the neck, which can progress to a “turkey wattle.”

2. Neckbands Become Visible


The platysma muscles, which run vertically down the neck, weaken and separate over time, creating prominent vertical bands. These bands can make the neck appear older and less defined.

3. Fat Accumulates or Shifts


Age-related fat changes can lead to a double chin or uneven contours around the jawline and neck. These changes even affect individuals at a healthy weight.

4. Sun Damage Impacts Skin Quality


Years of UV exposure can lead to wrinkles, discoloration, and rough texture on the delicate neck skin, further contributing to an aged appearance.

5. Jawline Definition Diminishes


As the skin and underlying tissues lose support, the sharp line between the chin and neck may blur, affecting the overall balance and harmony of facial features.

How Non-surgical Treatments Can Help

A simple treatment like Botox Cosmetic injections can relax platysmal (muscle) bands that stand out when you are animated such as when talking. Botox, injected with the Nefertiti lift technique, can also improve the appearance of sagging skin on the neck and jowls. Injection of HA filler Juvederm Volux, FDA approved for the jawline, can create noticeable reduction of the appearance of jowls. Another simple treatment is injection of Sculptra to improve collagen and skin thickness. We offer other techniques such as microneedling with or without radiofrequency, and painless no-recovery, tripolar radiofrequency treatments to gradually tighten the skin as well. Specialized medical grade skin care products developed for looseness of neck skin will also enhance rejuvenation. Laser treatments help to rejuvenate the neck by treating discoloration caused by sun damage. Tumescent liposuction, an office procedure, is very helpful in reducing fullness of the double chin, neck and jowls and redfining the contours of the neck and jawline. A combination of treatments, individually customized, can provide the best results in appropriate patients.

Schedule a Consultation for More Youthful Neck Contours
Dr. Diwan uses advanced techniques to achieve natural apppearing improvement of the neck for her patients. She listens to each patient’s specific goals during the consultation so that she can craft a customized plan that best addresses these requests.

If you’re ready to address the signs of aging in your neck, the team at the Laser & Skin Surgery Center led by Dr. Diwan can help. Contact us today in Westlake, OH at 440-871-9832 to schedule your consultation.

Top Reasons to Consider Mole Removal

Dr. using magnifying glass to examine mole on woman’s skin Common skin growths that can form anywhere include moles or nevi. While the majority of moles are benign, some could raise questions because of their location, look, or chance of turning into skin cancer.

Mole removal is a relatively simple procedure that addresses these concerns and offers several benefits. Here are the top reasons to consider mole removal:

Cosmetic Concerns

For many individuals, the primary reason for mole removal is cosmetic. Moles can be unsightly, especially when large, raised, or located in visible areas such as the face, neck, or arms. Removal can improve appearance and boost self-confidence. 

Potential for Malignancy

While most moles are benign, some can develop into melanoma, a severe form of skin cancer. Moles with irregular borders, varying colors, or changes in size, shape, or texture may be indicators of malignancy. Removing suspicious moles can help prevent the potential spread of cancerous cells and aid in early detection, which is crucial for successful treatment.

Risk Factors and Prevention

Certain risk factors, such as a family history of melanoma, multiple atypical moles, or excessive sun exposure, can increase the likelihood of moles becoming cancerous. Mole removal can be a proactive measure for individuals with these risk factors, reducing the chance of future complications and providing peace of mind.

Discomfort or Interference

Moles can sometimes cause discomfort or interfere with daily activities, mainly if they are located in areas that experience frequent friction or pressure. For example, moles on the soles of the feet or in areas prone to chafing from clothing may become irritated or bleed. Removing these troublesome moles can alleviate discomfort and prevent further complications.

Enhance Your Skin’s Health and Beauty in Westlake, OH

At The Laser & Skin Surgery Center, Dr Renuka Diwan, MD, FAAD, specializes in addressing your skin concerns, including mole removal. Whether you’re looking to improve your appearance or take preventative measures against skin cancer, we’re here to help. 

Contact us today at 440-871-9832 or visit our website to schedule a consultation. We look forward to helping you achieve healthier, more beautiful skin.

Types of Scars That Can Be Corrected by Scar Revision

scar revision Scar revision treatments offer many individuals a second chance at regaining the confidence they once had before acquiring their scars. Here are some of the most common types of scars that are treated at the Laser & Skin Surgery Center in Westlake, OH.

Common Types of Scars

Keloid Scars

A keloid scar is a thick, elevated scar that may be noticeably redder or darker than the normal skin around it and is larger than the injury that caused it. A keloid develops when cells and connective tissue in the skin are over-produced in response to an injury. 

Injections of cortisone are the first line of treatment for keloid scars; however, keloids may also be surgically removed if injections don’t work.

Hypertrophic Scars

Hypertrophic scars resemble keloid scars but develop only inside the established borders of the injury. Redness, thickness, and elevation are all characteristics of these scars.

Hypertrophic scar revision treatment includes laser surgery and corticosteroid injections. These injections are also often used in combination with surgery to permanently heal the scar.

Acne Scars 

Scarring from acne can be challenging, and no single method works for everyone. Boxcar, ice pick, and rolling scars are just a few examples of acne scars. Depending on your acne scar type, skin type, and the degree of the scarring, one or a combination of different methods may help enhance the look of your skin. For the best results, many individuals usually opt for laser resurfacing with other treatments.

Surgical Scars 

Surgical scars can be improved by starting early ( in a month after surgery) with a series of three laser treatments to remodel the scar collagen fibres before they are mature. 

Accident scars 

Scars left by accidents such as cuts or other injuries that lead to a cut in the skin can be revised surgically to change the direction of a scar or break it up to make it less noticeable than a straight line scar. These techniques are called Z-plasty or W-plasty and are performed in the office with local anesthesia. 

Explore Scar Revision Treatments in Westlake, OH

Scar revision procedures may be customized to meet the needs of patients of any age. It’s best if you’re in excellent health overall and can put in the time and effort to follow post-treatment care guidelines. 

If you have a scar that you would like to correct, find out if you’re a good candidate for scar revision by scheduling a consultation with Dr. Renuka Diwan at The Laser & Skin Surgery Center. Contact (440) 871-9832 today.

Does Scar Revision Really Work?

Rear view of attractive young woman trying on her sun hat and smiling while looking in the mirror at home
When it is wounded, the skin has an incredible ability to heal itself. The skin produces growth factors that influence skin cells to grow new collagen that mends and repairs the site of the injury. Unfortunately, depending on the depth and severity of injury, the result of this process can be an unsightly scar. Depending on its location, a scar can make a person feel really self-conscious. If you have a scar in an obvious place, you may spend time every day considering how you can conceal it with clothing or cosmetics. Not only can this affect your confidence, but thinking about your scar on a daily basis is frustrating and tiring. Fortunately, there are treatments to help reduce and revise scars.

How well scar treatments work depends on the proper assessment of the scar and selection of the best suited treatment for the particular scar, the severity of the scar, and your end goal and expectations. There are many different types of scars. Scars can be raised, flat or depressed, pink, skin-colored, lighter than your natural skin tone or darkened; large, small, etc. The treatment for each type is different. The first step is to consult Dr. Diwan, who can give you an idea of which treatments should be considered, the nature of the treatments, recovery and care, and what the scar(s) can be expected to look like after a given treatment. In general, scars improve significantly but may or may not completely disappear after treatment, and may require multiple treatments or a combination of treatments over time for best results. It really depends on the circumstances. Because individual results vary, it’s best not to speculate but to consult Dr. Diwan so she can examine the scar. She may recommend:

Dr. Diwan has extensive experience with scar treatment and will help you choose the right approach for the type of scar you have, taking your skin’s unique healing response into account, and prepare you for the treatment process.

Most people who are bothered by scarring report high rates of satisfaction with scar revision. Whether the scar is eliminated or dramatically reduced in appearance, scar treatments are often the key to reducing the effort and time needed to cover a scar, changing how you feel about yourself and improving your quality of life.

If you are interested in learning about scar revision in Westlake, Ohio, please call Dr. Renuka Diwan at the Laser and Skin Surgery Center by dialing 440-871-9832. We look forward to providing clear and honest answers about your scar reduction options!

Microneedling for Crepey Skin and Acne Scars

Aging is inevitable. Showing its visible signs doesn’t have to be. Many people live with unsightly issues such as crepey wrinkles and acne scars without knowing that a simple, minimally invasive treatment with no downtime is within reach. Board-certified cosmetic dermatologist Dr. Renuka Diwan is proud to offer microneedling to her northeast Ohio patients to help reduce the visible signs of aging.

Dr. Diwan has more than 25 years of experience helping her patients attain more vibrant, youthful-looking skin. Her attention to detail is immaculate, and she is dedicated to giving you elegant, nuanced results. Read on to learn about how Dr. Diwan can use microneedling to deliver the look you desire.

What is Microneedling?

Microneedling is a minimally invasive office procedure that creates barely visible punctures in your skin, to stimulate its natural healing processes. By doing so, microneedling induces your skin to repair issues that have developed over time. Microneedling is beneficial for:

  • Fine crepey lines and wrinkles
  • Acne scars
  • Stretch marks
  • Uneven skin texture
  • Hyperpigmentation

Microneedling works equally well and is safe for all complexions.

How Can Microneedling Treat Crepey Wrinkles?

Crepinessimplies skin that looks like crepe paper. It’s finely wrinkled and is most common under the eyes.

Crepey wrinkles can be caused by sun damage and aging. The sun’s ultraviolet rays lead to reduced collagen and elastin, which are responsible for your skin staying firm, supple, and wrinkle-free.

Collagen and elastin production also naturally decline as you age. On average, your body produces about 1 percent less collagen and elastin starting in your mid-20s.

When Dr. Diwan or her trained nurses treat the skin with the microneedling device, its tiny needles will create tiny wounds that trigger a healing response with the production of collagen and elastin. Hence, microneedling is also referred to as “collagen induction therapy.” The new collagen and elastin will then improve the appearance of crepey wrinkles and rejuvenate your skin, making it look smoother.

How Can Microneedling Treat Acne Scars?

Inflammation which results from acne destroys healthy skin tissue and causes acne scars.

Microneedling can treat these scars by the same mechanism that improves crepey wrinkles. Tiny punctures created in your skin with the microneedling device cause your skin to produce more collagen and elastin, helping to reverse collagen loss that caused acne scars.

Schedule Your Cleveland Microneedling Consultation Today

Dr. Diwan’sskill, attention to detail, and compassion have helped her create a loyal patient base over her 25-plus years practicing cosmetic dermatology. She is confident that you’ll feel the same way when you see the results she can deliver.

Dr. Diwan serves Westlake, Strongsville, and nearby areas of Cleveland. Call (440) 871-9832 today to schedule a consultation.

Clear Skin for the School Year Ahead

diwan-teen-acne-image

It’s back to school for students all over the Westlake area. Plans are made for the year ahead—schedules fall into place, plans with friends are made, and the perfect wardrobe is carefully chosen. Acne, however, is not what most boys and girls plan for. Unfortunately, for many tweens and teens alike, acne will flourish as they go back to school.

Continue reading Clear Skin for the School Year Ahead

How to Reverse Sun Damage with a Chemical Peel

diwan-sun-damage-image

As we say goodbye to summer, it is time to think about how to reverse any unwanted sun damage that may have accrued over the past few months. Think of fall as your post – summer recovery period—with sun damage still fresh, now is the time to restore your skin’s health.

Chemical peels are a great antidote to summer sun damage. Chemical exfoliation encourages your skin to purge the dead and damaged cells. By replacing dull and lackluster cells with new, robust, and vibrant skin cells, your skin’s health as well as appearance are improved.

Continue reading How to Reverse Sun Damage with a Chemical Peel