Cosmetic Surgery and Beauty Magazine #68

RRP $14.95 (incl. GST) (NZ $15.95 incl. GST) 

ISSUE 68 • MAY-JULY 2015 

WHAT TO 

EXPECT WHEN 

YOU’RE 

EXPECTING 

PERFECTION 

TREATMENTS 

TO BANISH 

SCARS FOR 

GOOD 

SOS 

WINTER SKIN 

SAVIOURS 

9 771833 383011 

ISSN 1834-383X 

04 

PRODUCTS 

TO HYDRATE 

YOUR BODY 

sugar 

does it 

deserve such 

a bad rap? 

GET 

SURGERY 

SAVVY 

BREAST & NOSE SURGERIES EXPLAINED

SYDNEY’S RHINOPLASTY 

DR WILLIAM MOONEY 

ENT & FACIAL COSMETIC SURGEON 

SYDNEY’S RHINOPLASTY SPECIALIST 

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Stratpharma has wound healing covered 

With many years of international dermatological expertise, Swiss company Stratpharma has developed breakthrough treatments for 

faster wound healing, abnormal scar prevention and treatment, that are now available in over 50 countries. These silicone-based 

products are clinically proven to be effective and easy to use alone or in combination with more invasive therapies. 

Laser resurfacing (acne scars) 1 

(Left) Before treatment (Middle) Day 0 (Right) Day 7 

Stratamed is the first film-forming silicone gel-based 

wound dressing approved for use on open wounds and 

compromised skin 

• Can be used immediately after skin resurfacing (laser 

treatment, chemical peels, dermal abrasion, tattoo removal 

etc), general, cosmetic and Mohs surgery, trauma, burns 

(1 st and 2 nd degree) 

• Bacteriostatic, gas permeable and inert 1 

• Creates an optimal environment for faster wound healing, 

resulting in reduced downtime 1 

• Reduces the inflammatory response 1 

• Provides symptomatic relief (redness/discoloration, itching, 

discomfort, pain) 1 

• Hydrates and protects superficial wounds and compromised 

skin 1 

• Improves the visible outcome of the treatment 3 

• Easy to apply with a great safety profile 1 

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Linear hypertrophic scar (after nevis excision) 

(Left) Before treatment, 14 months after excision (Right) After 2 months of monotherapy 

treatment with Strataderm 

Strataderm - for the prevention and treatment of 

hypertrophic scars and keloids 

• Silicone gel is internationally recommended as a gold 

standard in non-invasive scar treatment 4 

• For both old and new scars 

• Prevents abnormal scar formation 5 

• Softens and flattens raised scars 6 

• Relieves itching and discomfort 6 

• Reduces redness and discoloration 6 

• Can be used in monotherapy or in combination with more 

invasive therapy 4 

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174 Willoughby Rd, Crows Nest, NSW 2065 Australia www.stratpharma.com 

References: (1) Sandhofer M, Schauer P. SKINmed 2012;10:S1–S7. (2) Monk EC, Benedetto EA, Benedetto AV. Dermatologic Surgery 2014;40;76–79. (3) Data on file. Stratpharma AG (4) Gold MH et al. Dermatol Surg 2014;40:817-824. (5) Monstrey S et 

al. JPRAS 2014;1-9. (6) Dermat Estetyczna 2004;35(6):323-328

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contents 

regulars 

12 Editor’s letter 

14 Contributors 

16 Newsfront 

53 How to subscribe 

122 Directory 

features 

22 Sugar, should we quit it? 

We investigate the question on 

everyone’s taste buds 

38 What to expect when you’re 

expecting perfection 

Realistic expectations are key in a 

successful surgery 

42 Breast surgery in 2015 

There’s likely a procedure to suit 

every patient’s needs 

54 By a nose 

Rhinoplasty is one of the most 

popular cosmetic procedures. We 

explore what’s involved 

64 Skin SOS 

Is your skin crying out for help? 

Here’s our rescue advice 

82 Scar solutions 

Scars no longer have to be a 

lifelong legacy 

breasts 

46 Breast beauty 

Harmonise the breast and 

the body 

50 Are you chasing a price 

point, or an effective 

result? 

Don’t let “discount” surgeries lull 

you into a false sense of security 

nose 

58 Look better in luxury 

Rhinoplasty can be combined 

with other surgical and nonsurgical 

procedures 

face 

60 Delaying surgery 

Minimally invasive procedures 

can help reverse the signs of 

ageing and delay the need for 

cosmetic surgery 

teeth 

62 Clinic snapshot: Cosmetic 

and reconstructive dentist 

Integrating dentistry and oral 

medicine 

skin 

68 Radiofrequency for skin 

rejuvenation 

Improve the tone, texture and 

appearance of ageing skin with 

radiofrequency energy 

70 Smooth and tighten skin 

This non-surgical treatment helps 

refine facial contours 

72 Skincare to revive your 

complexion 

A new treatment for radiant 

results in skin repair 

74 Clean science in 

cosmeceutical formulations 

76 Your go-to brand for mineral 

makeup 

It’s recommended by 

dermatologists, plastic surgeons 

and skin therapists 

cosmetic tattoo 

78 A holistic approach to beauty 

Successful and individualised 

results in permanent makeup 

80 Raising the bar in cosmetic 

tattooing

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contents 

SUBSCRIBE NOW! 

scarring 

86 Reduce scarring 

A breakthrough treatment for 

abnormal scar prevention 

intimate surgery 

88 Empowering women with 

choice 

Genital surgery can help 

ease discomfort and restore 

self-esteem 

90 Non-invasive vaginal 

tightening 

New laser technology to treat 

vaginal atrophy 

beauty & spa 

92 Train your skin 

Enrol your skin in boot camp 

this winter 

100 Blitz the bulge 

Remove toxins, shrink your 

waistline and improve circulation 

102 Straight from the salon, DIY 

styling 

Introducing a game-changing 

device in hair styling. 

104 Winter body care 

Stay hydrated this season 

108 Winter beauty 

This season’s all about porcelain 

skin and vixen lips 

112 Editor’s Faves 

travel 

114 Beautiful destinations 

Your guide to travelling Bangkok 

and beyond 

cover stories 



WHAT TO 

EXPECT WHEN 

YOU’RE 

EXPECTING 

PERFECTION 

TREATMENTS 

TO BANISH 

SCARS FOR 

GOOD 

SOS 

WINTER SKIN 

SAVIOURS 

9 771833 383011 

ISSN 1834-383X 

04 

sugar 

PRODUCTS 

TO HYDRATE 

YOUR BODY 

does it 

deserve such 

a bad rap? 

GET 

SURGERY 

SAVVY 

BREAST & NOSE SURGERIES EXPLAINED 

22 Sugar, should we quit it? 

38 What to expect when 

you’re expecting 

perfection 

42 Breast surgery in 2015 

54 By a nose, your guide to 

rhinoplasty 

64 Skin SOS 

82 Scar solutions 

Read the FREE online version at 

www.cosbeauty.com.au

CMYK 

TM 

TM 

MonaLisa 

TM 

CMYK

EDITOR’S LETTER 

Welcome to the latest issue of Cosmetic Surgery and 

Beauty Magazine. It has been all systems go lately at 

Bella headquarters, dealing with deadlines, attending 

Wconferences and interviewing the many international and local 

keynote speakers. We understand the importance of knowledge, 

so we attend all the major scientifi c meetings in Australia to keep 

up to date and report on the latest innovations and breakthroughs 

in the enhancement arena. 

We know cosmetic surgery has the power to transform lives 

for the better, often restoring self-esteem and improving body image in suitable patients. 

However, while the vast majority of treatments result in successful, positive outcomes, 

one crucial thing has never changed: the importance of realistic expectations. On page 

38, our feature What to expect when you’re expecting perfection guides you through the 

various motivations for aesthetic surgery and helps shape your expectations regarding 

your procedure, recovery and results. 

Plus, on pages 42 and 54, you will fi nd our comprehensive guides to breast and nose 

surgery respectively. These offer comprehensive insight into the latest surgical techniques 

and approaches, arming you with relevant knowledge and the right questions to ask your 

doctor when it comes to consultation time. 

On a lighter note, we ‘weigh into’ the sugar debate – should we go cold turkey and 

really quit it? Turn to our feature on page 22 to make up your own mind. Also, in our 

Beauty & Spa pages (from page 92 onwards) you will fi nd skincare advice and makeup 

tricks for keeping your face and body hydrated, healthy and beautifi ed this winter. 

For those looking to escape the winter months with an overseas getaway, we also have 

you covered. This issue features an eight-page travel special on Bangkok on page 114, 

including the best places to stay, eat and receive a top-to-toe pampering. 

Finally, don’t forget you can download the free digital edition of this issue online at 

www.cosbeauty.com.au. You’ll be able to read your favourite articles and view all the 

product shots and before and after images on your computer or portable device. Plus, 

www.cosbeauty.com.au is home to hundreds of unique articles on general health and 

beauty topics, product road tests, surgical and non-surgical cosmetic procedures and the 

latest treatment innovations. See you online! 

Michelle Kearney 

Editor-in-Chief 

michelle@bellamedia.com.au 

Michelle Kearney is sole director of The Bella Media Group and no other parties or individuals have any fi nancial interest in the 

company or in Australian Cosmetic Surgery & Beauty Magazine (ACSBM). Reproduction in whole or in part is not permitted without 

the written authorisation of the publisher. All reasonable efforts have been made to trace copyright holders. All manuscripts and 

articles submitted for publication remain the property of The Bella Media Group. This magazine contains general information only and 

does not purport to be a substitute for medical advice. All readers are advised to seek medical advice from a doctor if considering 

cosmetic surgery. The publisher and the authors do not accept any liability whatsoever in respect of an action taken by readers in 

reliance on the recommendations set out in this magazine. Except where specifi ed in captions, photographs depict models who have 

not necessarily received treatments described in this magazine. 

Advertising Policy ACSBM follows and upholds the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) Guidelines to 

Advertising Medical Services, the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) advertising regulations for therapeutic goods and services, 

and individual state Medical Board guidelines. All reasonable effort is made by ACSBM to ensure that all advertisements accepted 

for publication follow these guidelines. Copies of these guidelines are available from the individual agencies and boards. ACSBM 

reserves the right to reject advertising that is in breach of these guidelines. All ACSBM advertisers assume sole responsibility and 

liability for statements contained in their advertising copy, and hold harmless and indemnify ACSBM, Bella Media, and offi cers, 

directors and employees from and against all liability, loss, claim, damages, costs or expenses arising out of matter contained in the 

advertising. Advertisers accept these terms and responsibilities when signing an advertising contract with ACSBM. 

Read the online edition at 

www.cosbeauty.com.au 

Issue 68 

MAY-JULY 2015 

Editor-in-Chief 


Editorial Director 

Aimée Surtenich 

Production Coordinator 

Camila Kawashita 

Art Director 

Debbie Pilarinos 

Writers 

Caitlin Bishop, Tara Casey, 

Aimée Surtenich 

Photographers 

Debbie Pilarinos, ShutterStock 

Distribution & 

Subscription Enquiries 

Bill Dunk 

Phone 02 9398 2755 Fax 02 9398 2855 

Email acsmag@bellamedia.com.au 

Advertising Enquiries 


Phone 02 9398 2755 Mob 0419 624 246 

Email michelle@bellamedia.com.au 

Editorial Enquiries 

Michelle Kearney, Aimée Surtenich 

Phone 02 9398 2755 Fax 02 9398 2855 

Email acsmag@bellamedia.com.au 

Produced & Published by Bella Media 

ABN 86 082 157 695 

Managing Director 


Chief Operating Officer 

Bill Dunk 

Public Relations, Marketing 

& Event Organisation 

Phone 02 9398 2755 Fax 02 9398 2855 

find us on 

Facebook 

australian cosmetic 

surgery magazine, 

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directory 

follow us 

on Twitter 

@cosmetic_beauty 

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follow us 

on Instagram 

CosBeauty 

Office address 

Level 1, 42a Frenchmans Road 

Randwick, NSW, 2031 

Phone +61 2 9398 2755 Fax +61 2 9398 2855 

www.bellamedia.com.au 

All ‘before and after’ photographs in 

Cosmetic Surgery & Beauty Magazine 

articles are of genuine patients. It is 

important to understand that they represent 

one person’s experience and there is 

no guarantee that any other patient will 

experience similar results. 

18

Contributors 

Dr Buddy Beaini Dr John Flynn Stephen Handisides 

Val Glover-Hovan Dr Steven Liew Dr William Mooney Dr Sarkis Nalbandian 

Dr Oseka Onuma Rita Porreca Terri Vinson 

14 www.cosbeauty.com.au

Prosthodontics 

& Implant Surgery 

DESIGNER SMILES TM 

Centre for cosmetic, reconstructive 

and implant dentistry 

Dr Sarkis Nalbandian completed his Bachelor of Dental Surgery with 

Honours in 1983 and Diploma in Clinical Dentistry (Oral Implants) in 

2000 at The University of Sydney. He also completed his Masters in 

Prosthodontics in 2004 at the prestigious King’s College, University 

of London with distinction. He is a fellow of the Royal Australasian 

College of Dental Surgeons. 

B.D.S. (Hons.) Uni.Syd. 

FRACDS 

Grad. Dip. Clin. Dent. (Oral Implants) Uni.Syd. 

M.Clin.Dent (Prosthodontics) King’s College Uni. London 

Dr Nalbandian specialises in Dental Implants and Prosthodontics 

for treating simple to complex dental, functional and aesthetic 

problems. 

He lectures on topics including Dental Implantology, Prosthodontics 

and Implant Surgery. 

He maintains a specialised practice in Sydney limited to Aesthetics, 

Prosthodontics & Implant Surgery. 

Dr Sarkis Nalbandian 

B.D.S. (Hons.) Dip. Clin. Dent. (Oral Implants) Uni.Syd. FRACDS 

M.Clin.Dent (Prosthodontics) King’s College Uni.London 

Designer Smiles 

17 Gerard Street Cremorne NSW 2090 

For more information call 

02 9953 4189 

Fax 02 9953 4358 

www.designersmiles.com.au

newsfront 

NEWSFRONT 

CATCH UP WITH WHAT’S BEEN HAPPENING IN THE INDUSTRY... 

THE STATS ARE OUT! 

The latest cosmetic surgery stats are out and, apparently, 2014 was the year of the face. 

According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the biggest annual increases were 

seen in facelifts and eyelid surgeries, but it was non-surgical treatments that stole the show 

last year. Anti-wrinkle injections, dermal fi llers and chemical peels all saw a signifi cant rise 

in popularity from the year before. 

Treatments with dermal fi llers (the most popular type being hyaluronic acid) increased 

by fi ve per cent between 2013 and 2014. Anti-wrinkle injections also increased by eight 

per cent, soaring past three and a half million procedures annually. In total, there were 

6,907,091 injectable treatments performed last year in the US. Treatments with laser and 

intense pulsed light were also on the rise. And chemical peels? Up as well, by two per cent. 

Over all, there was a six per cent increase in minimally-invasive cosmetic procedures. 

With more men and women opting for laser hair removal and skin rejuvenating procedures. 

Surgical cosmetic procedures dropped in popularity last year compared to their nonsurgical 

counterparts. Across all cosmetic surgeries, there was a one per cent drop in total. 

The number one surgical procedure, breast augmentation, experienced a one per cent 

drop from the year before – with 286,000 procedures performed. Rhinoplasty came in as 

the second most popular surgical procedure, with liposuction following closely. 

In its entity, the industry is booming. The total amount of cosmetic surgeries performed 

– including surgical, non-surgical and reconstructive – was up fi ve per cent in 2014, 

compared to the year before. 


newsfront 

THE WORLD’S FIRST 

DIGITAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 

on facial injectables 

Complete Face is a one-on-one workshop, right at your fi ngertips. 

It is an interactive and educational tool for every health professional who 

performs facial cosmetic injecting. The App was created by Sydney 

plastic surgeon Dr Steven Liew and plastic surgeon in 

Victoria Dr Peter Callan. 

With hundreds of high quality videos, photographs and 

protocols on display, the App advises practitioners on 

injecting techniques, anatomy and product choice. 

Importantly, there are different modules available to 

cater to different levels of practitioner experience. 

The Complete Face App is available to 

download from the App Store and on Android. 

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www.cosbeauty.com.au 17

newsfront 

TEOXANE LABORATORIES 

INTRODUCING THE 

ONLY APPROVED FILLER FOR 

UNDER-EYE CIRCLES 

COSMETEX 2015 saw the launch of a new dermal fi ller range to the Australian 

market and, in this, a ground-breaking solution to reducing the appearance of dark 

under-eye circles. 

The line of fi llers is manufactured in Switzerland by Teoxane Laboratories, and is 

distributed in Australia and New Zealand by Mondeal Aesthetics. 

The range includes solutions for full-facial rejuvenation and lip enhancement, 

as well as the only approved fi ller for dark under-eye circles and hollows. This 

unique product is specially designed to treat dark hollow circles, tear troughs and 

palpebromalar grooves – the fi rst of its kind. 

WHERE DOES EXCESS WEIGHT 

GO WHEN WE LOSE IT? 

While each individual usually mashes 

together their own program for 

slimming down and toning up, the 

physiological processes in shedding 

fat are not so particular – each body 

breaks down fat the same way, through 

a process called oxidation. 

But all this begs the question. Where 

does the excess weight actually go? 

How does it leave the body? 

Is it excreted as waste? Transformed 

into muscle? Converted to heat energy? 

None of these are the case, 

according to new research from the 

University of New South Wales (UNSW) 

in Australia. Instead, it’s all in the breath. 

A new study, by Prof. Andrew 

Brown and Ruben Meerman at UNSW, 

has shown that when weight is lost, 

the majority of it is breathed out as 

carbon dioxide. 

Once in the body, excess carbohydrates 

and protein are converted 

to a type of fat called triglycerides. 

These molecules are made up of 

carbon, hydrogen and water. When we 

lose weight, triglycerides are broken 

down and the atoms are separated in a 

process called oxidation. 

The UNSW researchers set out to 

track these atoms, and follow the path 

they take when leaving the body. They 

found that in 10kg of oxidized fat, 8.4kg 

was converted and excreted as carbon 

dioxide (CO2) via the lungs, and 1.6kg 

became water (H2O). 

The fi ndings suggest the lungs are 

the main excretory organ for weight 

loss and the remaining H2O departs the 

body in urine, feces and sweat. 


newsfront 

xxxxx 

xxxxxx 

New study has 

potential to reshape 

the fight against 

breast cancer 

Long-held theories about breast cancer may be inaccurate, explains 

Adelaide University Associate Professor Brendon Coventry who 

was involved in a unique 20-year research collaboration between 

surgeons, immunologists, pathologists and scientists. 

‘For many years breast cancer has been assumed to be “nonimmunogenic”, 

meaning that the disease does not trigger a response 

by the body’s immune system,’ A/Prof Coventry says. ‘The new 

findings indicate that the immune response appears to be already 

occurring in many women with breast cancer, and that the strength 

of that response correlates with longer-term survival.’ 

The study compared the tissue of women suffering from breast 

cancer with those who did not. It found that an immune response – 

shown by a higher count of specific white blood cells – was present 

in some breast cancer patients, when compared with normal breast 

tissues. While the research is ongoing, these findings have major 

implications, as Dr Coventry explains. 

“The study, and others of its kind, offer renewed hope to breast 

cancer suffers and their families,” Dr Coventry says. “They pave the 

way for continued research into enhanced treatments of the disease, 

including immunotherapy, a form of treatment that has long been 

successful in the management of other forms of cancer.’ 

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Making old cells 

act young again 

A fresh approach 

to anti-ageing 

As we age, the cells in our body slow down 

in replication and become less resilient to 

internal and external stressors. This leads to 

both the visible and physiological signs of 

ageing. 

However, the cells themselves aren’t 

solely to blame. New research suggests it 

might be possible to slow the rate of decline 

in ageing cells by optimising the condition of 

the extracellular matrix (ECM) – or the material 

surrounding the cells. 

The ECM is comprised of tiny fibrils of 

collagen, which acts as a scaffolding to 

support the skin cells. With age, the ECM 

becomes “fragmented” causing the cells to 

lose their support, further contributing to the 

rate of cellular ageing. 

Scientists at the U-M Department of 

Dermatology injected the buttock skin of 21 

volunteers aged over 80 with a filler often 

used to reduce facial wrinkles in cosmetic 

patients. Once injected, the filler worked to fill 

the fragmented ECM and return it to a more 

robust resiliency. 

Three months after injection, the 

researchers found that fibroblast cells had 

begun expressing collagen-related genes, 

producing more collagen and connecting 

more effectively to the ECM. The skin grew 

thicker and more vasularised. The new blood 

vessels helped nourish the cells, slowing the 

rate of cellular ageing. 

‘Fragmentation of the extracellular matrix 

plays an important role in skin ageing, but by 

altering the matrix using an external filler and 

increasing the internal pressure, we’ve shown 

that we can essentially trigger a signal for cells 

to wake up,’ says Gary Fisher, Ph.D., the Harry 

Helfman Professor of Molecular Dermatology 

and senior author of the research. ‘This 

shows that skin cells in elderly people have 

the capacity to respond robustly in a very 

positive way to alterations in the mechanical 

property of their environment.’ 

‘We still need to know more about how 

cells sense their environment, but in general it 

appears we have made a real difference in the 

structural integrity of skin,’ Fisher concludes. 


newsfront 

2 MINUTES WALKING EACH 

HOUR MAY REDUCE THE RISK 

OF PROLONGED SITTING 

We all know prolonged sitting it no good for our health. But new 

research, published in the Clinical Journal of the American Society of 

Nephrology (CJASN), has found just two minutes of walking every hour 

might reduce the hazard of sitting for long periods. 

Past research has linked sitting each day for long periods to premature 

death and an increased risk of heart disease and diabetes. And, although 

we are encouraged to perform at least thirty minutes of moderate exercise 

each day to waylay these risks, the new study was looking to fi nd an 

easier, more achievable solution to maintaining health in offi ce workers. 

For their analysis, the research team used data on 3,243 participants 

in the 2003-04 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey in 

America. The researchers asked participants to wear accelerometers 

for several days. From this, they worked out how many minutes per 

hour were spent on sedentary (less than 100 accelerometer counts per 

minute), low (100-499), light (500-2019) and moderate to vigorous (2020 

and over) activity. 

They found low intensity activities such as standing did not work to 

offset the effects of long-term sitting, but trading two minutes of sitting to 

two minutes of light-intensity activity each hour resulted in a 33 per cent 

lower risk of premature death. 

“It was fascinating to see the results because the current national 

focus is on moderate or vigorous activity. To see that light activity had 

an association with lower mortality is intriguing,” lead author Srinivasan 

Beddhu, professor of internal medicine at the University of Utah School 

of Medicine in Salt Lake City, explains. “Based on these results we would 

recommend adding two minutes of walking each hour in combination 

with normal activities, which should include 2.5 hours of moderate 

exercise each week.” 

Senior citizens face no added risk from cosmetic surgery 

New research from the Vanderbilt University Medical Center has found 

senior citizens are at no higher risk of complications following cosmetic 

surgery compared to younger patients. 

In a data analysis of more 129,000 patients, the researchers found 

no signifi cant difference in complication rate in patients under or over 65 

years of age. 

The procedures studied varied from facelift to liposuction. The only 

surgery to show a slightly higher rate of complication in older patients was 

abdominoplasty, where the complication rate was 5.4 per cent for older 

patients and 3.9 per cent for younger patients. 

‘Similar outcomes of cosmetic surgery in younger and older patients 

have never been shown before on such a large scale,’ said Max Yezhelyev, 

M.D., Ph.D., the author of the study and a plastic surgery resident at 

Vanderbilt. ‘Our study demonstrated that patients over 65 can safely 

undergo cosmetic procedures with a complications rate similar to younger 

patients when surgery is performed by a board-certifi ed plastic surgeon.’ 

20

B E A U T Y W I T H B R I L L I A N C E TM

feature 

should we quit it? 

Sugar. It’s been described as toxic, poisonous and addictive, but 

should we quit it completely? Caitlin Bishop investigates. 

Sugar is the villain of the day 

in the health and wellness 

sector. Slowly but surely 

fats are shedding their bad-boy 

status, and sugar is taking over 

as the most detrimental dietary 

ingredient to our waistlines, 

health and general wellbeing. 

We outline the bad rap sugar 

has been attracting and look into 

the question on everybody’s taste 

buds – should we banish it from 

our diet once and for all? 


feature 

What is it? 

At a molecular level, sugar is a crystalline carbohydrate. There are 

many different types of sugar – glucose, fructose, lactose, maltose and 

sucrose (sucrose is your typical table sugar, and is composed of glucose 

and fructose). 

Some of these sugars occur naturally in fruits, vegetables and other 

food groups. However, it’s the added sugars, used to enhance flavour and 

add sweetness, that have been blamed as a culprit in a myriad of health 

issues. These sugars are usually delivered in the form of sucrose or fructose 

corn syrup, and it is fructose, more than glucose, that is receiving the most 

negative attention. 

The highest quantities of added sugars are found in soft drinks, fruit 

juices, cakes, chocolate and desserts. According to Medical News Today, 

just a single can of cola can contain up to seven teaspoons of added sugar, 

while an average-sized chocolate bar can contain up to six teaspoons. 

At present, the World Health Organisation’s (WHO) recommended 

daily dose of sugar is less than 10 percent of your daily total energy intake. 

WHO suggests a further reduction to less than five percent for beneficial 

health outcomes. 

Many nutritionists recommend against consuming more than 13 

teaspoons a day. 

Is sugar addiction possible? 

The book Sweet Poison: Why Sugar is Making Us Fat by David Gillespie, 

published in 2008, marked a turning point in the way we consider sugar 

consumption. In the book, Gillespie investigated the relationship between sugar, 

the ever-increasing obesity rates of the Western world and the most prevalent 

diseases in the 21st century. 

It was Gillespie’s personal story, however, that set people on the path of 

quitting sugar. From being 40kg overweight, he immediately started losing 

weight, and kept it off, by cutting sugar (specifically fructose) from his diet. He 

claims sugar is addictive – a fact exploited by food manufacturers – and a rare 

resource to which we don’t have an in-built “off switch”, meaning we can keep 

eating it without feeling full, leading to weight gain and a myriad of health effects. 

One study by Nicole Avena, Pedro Rada and Bartley Hoebel (2008) looked 

into the addictive properties of sugar. It examined the physiological response to 

sugar intake in rats, and how the rats behaved when “on” and “off” sugar. 

‘”Food addiction” seems plausible because brain pathways that evolved to 

respond to natural rewards are also activated by addictive drugs,’ the report 

states. ‘Sugar is noteworthy as a substance that releases opioids and dopamine 

and thus might be expected to have addictive potential.’ 

After a month “on” sugar, the animals showed a series of behaviours similar 

to the signs of drug abuse. 

‘These are categorised as “bingeing”, meaning unusually large bouts of 

intake, opiate-like “withdrawal” indicated by signs of anxiety and behavioural 

depression and “craving” measured during sugar abstinence as enhanced 

responding for sugar.’ 


feature 

So, are we all junkies? 

According to the Harvard School of Public Health, the average American consumes 22 

teaspoons of added sugar a day, equating to an extra 350 calories. Scarily, these 22 

mouthfuls of sweetness are easily consumed – added sugar is difficult to avoid. 

Gillespie claims food manufacturers are taking advantage of our collective sugar 

addiction and are “lacing” non-sweet products – such as bread, sauces, soups and 

cereals – with the poison to ensure we stay hooked. And he’s not alone in this thinking. 

Dr Robert Lustig, a paediatric endocrinologist at the University of California-San 

Francisco and author of the book Fat Chance: The Hidden Truth About Sugar, says the 

food industry is purposefully sweetening up our diets. 

‘The food industry has made sugar into a diet staple because they know when they do, 

you buy more,’ he told The Guardian in 2013. ‘This is their hook. If some unscrupulous 

cereal manufacturer went out and laced your breakfast cereal with morphine to get you to 

buy more, what would you think of that? They do it with sugar instead.’ 

Is it really that bad? 

Sugar has been linked to high blood sugar, cardiovascular disease mortality, 

diabetes and cellular ageing. 

An article published in the online journal Open Heart found sugars are probably 

more instrumental in increasing the risk of hypertension (high blood pressure) 

and cardiovascular disease (CVD), as compared to dietary sodium (salt). 

‘Compelling evidence from basic science, population studies, and clinical 

trials implicate sugars, and particularly the monosaccharide fructose, as 

playing a major role in the development of hypertension,’ the researchers state. 

‘Moreover, evidence suggests that sugars in general and fructose in particular 

may contribute to overall cardiovascular risk through a variety of mechanisms.’ 

Furthermore, a study published in the JAMA Internal Medicine journal, 

conducted by researchers at the Division for Heart Disease and Stroke Prevention 

at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, associated a high added 

sugar intake with a heightened risk of CVD. 

The study found that people who consumed between 17 and 21 per cent 

of their daily calories from added sugar exhibited a 38 percent higher risk of 

CVD mortality, compared to those whose added sugar intake was maintained 

at around eight percent. For those whose daily intake of added sugar was 

more than 21 percent of their daily calories, they had double the risk of CVD 

mortality. And, in participants who consumed 25 percent of their daily calories 

from added sugar, their risk of CVD mortality was tripled. 

Cellular ageing 

The anti-ageing world is full of talk about telomeres – or the protective DNA 

that caps the end of cell chromosomes. The common consensus is the longer 

the telomeres, the longer the quality of life. The trick? Telomeres continuously 

shorten as our cells replicate, getting shorter and shorter as we age. 

Ongoing research is furiously exploring the possibilities in lengthening 

telomeres to reduce the rate of ageing or ways to prevent their ever-persistent 

shortening. But sugar, according to scientists from the University of California- 

San Francisco, is one sure-fire way to shorten your telomeres before their 

time. The research, led by Prof. Elissa Epel, assessed 5,309 participants and 


feature 

found those who drank larger amounts of sugary soda tended to have shorter 

telomeres in their white blood cells, making them susceptible to inflammation 

and chronic disease. 

‘Regular consumption of sugar-sweetened sodas might influence disease 

development,’ says Epel. ‘Not only by straining the body’s metabolic control of 

sugars but also through accelerated cellular ageing of tissues.’ 

Diabetes – sugar’s off the hook (somewhat) 

Type 2 diabetes is caused when blood levels of glucose become chronically 

elevated. Although diabetes is the fastest growing chronic condition in Australia 

according to Diabetes Australia – with the total number of diabetic and prediabetic 

Australians estimated at 3.2 million – sugar is somewhat off the hook in 

this particular epidemic. 

As we eat, the sugar and carbohydrates in our food cause our blood sugar 

level – or the amount of glucose in our blood – to rise. In response to this, insulin 

is released from beta cells in the pancreas, and its job is to send glucose back 

into cells, so it’s not reaping havoc in the blood stream. 

When you eat high quantities of foods that cause a steep rise in blood sugar, 

higher levels of insulin are released to combat this. Over time, these repeated 

floods make the body less sensitive to the hormone, leading to a condition called 

insulin resistance and, following this, diabetes. 

An emerging school of thought holds that fructose may lead to insulin 

resistance. However, this is not certain and sugar is not the sole culprit here. 

Instead, foods with a high glycemic index (GI) – which measures how much the 

carbohydrates raise the blood sugar levels – have a greater impact on blood 

sugar. Interestingly, refined grains and starches actually have a higher glycemic 

index than sugar. 

There is also no differentiation in the body’s insulin response to the source of 

sugar – the fructose found in sucrose and the fructose found naturally in fruits 

will incur the very same insulin response. The only reason added sugars might 

be related to diabetes is because the foods they are founds in are more likely to 

lead to weight gain – a high risk factor in diabetes. 

Should we quit it? 

Certainly, the myriad of health problems associated with high sugar intake is 

enough to quieten anyone’s sugar cravings, but is it healthy to eliminate sugar 

from our diet completely? 

Sugar is found naturally in fruits, vegetables and dairy products, which means 

that to eradicate it completely from our diet would leave us with little other than 

meat and fats. 

‘I am quite comfortable with dietary sugars if they come from whole foods 

such as fresh fruits and vegetables, as the sugar is diluted with water, fibre and 

other nutrients,’ health expert Professor Kerin O’Dea from the Sansom Institute 

for Health Research told the ABC. 

As for added sugar, the alternative options – in the form of artificial sweeteners 

– are not necessarily any better for you. A recent study published in the journal 

Nature found artificial sweeteners interfere with gut bacteria, increasing the 

chances of obesity and diabetes. 

‘Our findings suggest that artificial sweeteners may have directly contributed 

to enhancing the exact epidemic that they themselves were intended to fight,’ 

the researchers from the Department of Immunology at the Weizmann Institute 

of Science in Israel state. csbm 

Myth 

busting 

raw vs white vs 

brown sugars 

Hopeful sugar lovers have ventured 

the suggestion that brown sugar 

or raw sugar might indeed by 

healthier than the super-refined 

white sugar seen on most coffeeshop 

tables. Unfortunately, their 

hopes are dashed. 

Although they go through 

slightly different processes, raw, 

white and brown sugar are derived 

from the same source and hold 

very little nutritional difference – ie, 

all are equally bad for you. 

Sugar crystals are made from the 

juice of sugar cane or sugar beet. 

The juice is filtered, evaporated, 

boiled – which produces molasses 

– centrifuged and dried to yield 

raw sugar. White, or refined 

sugar, undergoes further washing, 

bleaching, filtering, processing and 

drying. Brown sugar is created 

through the addition of molasses 

to refined white sugar. 


industry 

My Face My Body 

Awards 

are coming to Australia 

My Face My body are 

the only consumer 

awards dedicated 

to the aesthetic 

industry, and this 

November they’re 

coming to Australia. 

The MyFaceMyBody Awards were launched in the UK in 2012, and are 

coming to Australia this November. They celebrate the best in the cosmetic 

industry, as voted by consumers. Different awards include Cosmeceutical 

Range of the Year and Best Anti-Ageing Product or Treatment. There are also 

separate categories for practices/practitioners and industry media, including 

awards for Best Plastic Surgery Product or Device and Best Advertising 

Campaign by a Manufacturer or Supplier. 

After a mammoth response at the London Awards, founder of MyFaceMyBody 

Stephen Handisides is bringing the awards to Australia. He’s aiming to give 

consumers a voice in voting on their favourite brands, products and services in 

the cosmetic market. 

The awards culminate in a red carpet event attended by 300 leading industry 

professionals, brands, journalists and celebrities. Leading up to the big night, a 

team of international judges – with exceptional experience in the industry – draw 

up the final shortlist for each category. Importantly, the awards are voted by the 

consumer, positioning MyFaceMyBody as the only consumer-driven awards in 

the aesthetic industry. 

Bridging the gap between the aesthetic medicine market and mainstream 

beauty and fashion sectors is what MyFaceMyBody is all about. Handisides 

believes the awards will be a valuable addition to the ever-growing Australian 

aesthetic industry. ‘After the huge success of the UK awards, I wanted to bring 

the awards closer to home in Australia where the popularity of aesthetics and 

beauty is rocketing,’ explains Handisides, who was born in New Zealand. ‘The 

awards climax in an evening of exceptional glamour and celebrity, the likes of 

which the aesthetic industry rarely sees.’ csbm 


Saturday, 28 November 2015 

Hilton Sydney 

WHY ENTER? 

The prestigious MyFaceMyBody Awards is the only consumer 

awards dedicated to the aesthetic industry to recognise and 

reward brands for their product innovation and popularity. 

Practices are also rewarded for exceptional experiences and 

outstanding service to their consumers. The awards will be 

attended by 250-300 leading industry professionals, brands, 

journalists and celebrities. 

For more information, go to 

www.globalaestheticawards.com/enter 

AWARD CATEGORIES 

Brand Awards 

Cosmeceutical Range of the Year 

Best Anti Ageing Product or Treatment 

Best Skin Tightening Product or Treatment 

Best Body Reshaping Treatment 

Best Plastic Surgery Product or Device 

Most Innovative Product or Service 

Best Advertising Campaign by a Manufacturer 

or Supplier 

Best Customer Service by a Manufacturer or Supplier 

Awards for Practices/Practitioners 

Best Plastic Surgery Practice 

Best Aesthetic Practice – VIC 

Best Aesthetic Practice – NSW 

Best Aesthetic Practice – QLD 

Best Aesthetic Practice – ACT 

Best Aesthetic Practice – SA/WA/NT 

Best Aesthetic Practice – TAS 

Best Aesthetic Practice – New Zealand 

Best Aesthetic Practice – Overall 

Best Customer Service 

Best Practice Team 

Best Practice Manager 

Media Awards 

Best Beauty Blogger Details 

Best Practice Website 

To enter, go to 

www.globalaestheticawards.com/enter 

Proud Gold Sponsor

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embracing 

beauty inside out. 

22 & 23 AUGUST 2015. SYDNEY EXHIBITION CENTRE, GLEBE ISLAND 

PHOTOGRAPHER – JEN HARE 

HAIR STYLIST – RICHARD KAVANAGH 

MAKE-UP – RAE MORRIS 

BEAUTYEXPOAUSTRALIA.COM.AU

industry 

SYDNEY BEAUTY 

BEAUTY EXPO AUSTRALIA IS SET 

TO HIT SYDNEY ON AUGUST 22 

AND 23. CAITLIN BISHOP REPORTS. 

Beauty professionals, clear your diaries for August 

22nd and 23rd! A revamped, jam-packed and 

refreshed Beauty Expo Australia, held at the 

Sydney Exhibition Centre and Glebe Island, will be 

dominating your weekend. 

After undergoing a name change late last year, 

and unveiling a fresh look and updated direction, the 

formerly titled Sydney International Spa and Beauty 

Expo is set to impress with the 2015 show. Complete 

with a diversifi ed line-up of leading products, services, 

education and talent, Beauty Expo Australia is a notto-miss, 

value-packed experience. 

Combining the latest from the spheres of spa, 

beauty and wellness, Beauty Expo Australia will offer 

a one-stop-shop for professionals working across a 

range of industries. 

In keeping with previous Expos, the weekend will 

also feature the prestigious annual industry awards 

– the Face2Face Makeup and Australia’s very own 

Nailympia Nail Awards. Those looking to test their 

skills are encouraged to visit the offi cial Beauty Expo 

Australia website for full entry details. 

www.beautyexpoaustralia.com.au 


2015 

industry 

EXPO 

WHAT’S 

NEW 

IN 2015? 

This year’s expo will include the Paramedical Conference, 

in collaboration with Laser Lounge and The Australasian 

Academy of Cosmetic Dermal Science. 

The revamped, new-look Beauty Expo Australia 

will provide beauty and spa professionals unparalleled 

opportunities for growth, in terms of networking, 

education, new products and business inspiration. This 

year’s Expo is all about tapping into new trends and taking 

your professional possibilities to unprecedented heights! 

Tickets are set to go on sale mid-May, head to www. 

beautyexpoaustralia.com.au for more details. csbm 

BEAUTY WELLNESS SPA 

With $3.8 billion being spent annually, 

the future for beauty salons is bright. 

The key to success involves keeping 

up with the trends. Source the best 

products from a range of industry 

leaders and discover the latest in 

makeup, tanning and nails at this 

year’s Beauty Expo. 

The demand for wellness treatments 

has soared over the past decade 

due to an increasing focus on health 

and appearance; clients are more 

concerned about fostering a healthy 

lifestyle as part of their everyday life. 

This trend is expected to continue, 

with the industry projected to grow to 

$442 million in the next 5 years. 

Learn all there is to know about 

improving your client’s health, beauty, 

wellbeing and ageing through 

tailored spa treatments. In 2015 and 

beyond there will be a sharp focus on 

interweaving mindfulness techniques 

to help clients reach a whole new 

place of serenity and calm. 


industry 

What’s new 

in PRP? 

The 13th annual Aesthetic and Anti-Ageing Medicine World 

Congress was held this March in Monaco, and PRP was featured 

as a regenerative treatment for gynaecology patients. 

Caitlin Bishop reports. 

Regen PRP remains at the forefront of possibilities in regenerative medicine, 

and this potential was certainly on show at the 13th annual Aesthetic and 

Anti-Ageing Medicine World Congress (AMWC) in Monaco this March. 

For the past 13 years, the AMWC has played a key role in growing scientific 

understanding in anti-ageing medicine on a global scale. By combining a 

number of approaches in aesthetics, including dermatology and cosmetic 

surgery, with anti-ageing medicine for internal wellbeing, the Congress explores 

new possibilities in both corrective and preventative treatments. 

There were several presentations delivered at this year’s Congress on different 

applications for Regen’s platelet-rich plasma (PRP) system, including its use as a 

stand-alone treatment, and also in conjunction with fat transfer, micro needling, 

mesotherapy, laser treatment, and stem cell injections. 


industry 

Several Australian doctors attended the 2015 meeting, including Sydney 

cosmetic physician Dr Joseph Hkeik and Adelaide gynaecologist Dr Fariba 

Behnia-Willison. The RegenLab team could be found in the main trade area – 

which spanned three levels – and, in total, the meeting saw more than 9,000 

delegates attend over three days. 

Dr Behnia-Willison presented to the Congress on the use of PRP for cosmetic 

gynaecology. This is an emerging field in the industry, and RegenLab in Australia 

is at its helm. Dr Behnia-Willison and Sydney physician Dr Abbas Al Taiff, are 

considered pioneers in gynaecological medicine. They are working to improve 

quality of life in female patients using Regen PRP for vaginal rejuvenation. 

PRP kickstarts the 

body’s cellular 

processes, stimulating 

collagen production 

and invigorating the 

area with stem cells 

and growth factors 

Regen PRP for Gynaecology 

Platelet-rich plasma therapy is a regenerative and rejuvenating procedure 

with seemingly endless options for application. The procedure involves extracting 

a sample of the patient’s blood, centrifuging this sample to concentrate the 

platelets, and reinjecting the concentrated solution into the treatment area. 

After injection, the platelet-rich solution works to kickstart the body’s cellular 

processes, stimulate collagen production and invigorate the area with stem 

cells and growth factors. Treatment with PRP is used to regenerate tissue, 

initiate vascular growth, induce cell differentiation and recruit other cells to help 

rejuvenate the area. 

The same potential applies to gynaecology. Regen PRP can be effective in 

repairing, rehydrating and stimulating collagen in the ageing vaginal walls. It is 

also used for restoring vaginal muscle tone, boosting the strength of the vaginal 

skin and assisting in optimal lubrication. 

Dr Behnia-Willison is one of the practitioners trailblazing the use of PRP in a 

gynaecological setting. One of her patients underwent PRP to treat a pervasive, 

aggressive and uncomfortable condition involving vaginal dryness, which 

caused great irritation in her vagina. ‘I had visited several gynaecologists but 

no one could pin-point the exact cause of my problem, nor could they suggest 

a solution,’ this patient describes. ‘It was so distressing; it affected my sexual 

health, I was in constant pain, it hurt to urinate, I couldn’t wear certain clothes 

and, psychologically, I was traumatised.’ 

Other doctors had prescribed anti-depressants and therapy, but this patient 

was determined to address the physical cause of her trauma. After a consultation 

with Dr Behnia-Willison, she went ahead with a series of three PRP treatments, 

combined with laser therapy to augment results. 

‘After the first treatment I could wear proper clothes again,’ the patient 

describes. ‘Each time I received treatment, the symptoms of discomfort and 

dryness continued to improve. I felt I could stand up tall again, I felt I was in 

control. PRP treatment really gave me myself back – I want women to know 

there are options out there. I was told I had to live with my condition, but PRP 

has given me hope.’ csbm 


industry 

Cosmetex 

A powerhouse of 

cosmetic surgeons, 

aesthetic practitioners, 

dermatologists and 

scientists descended 

upon Melbourne in 

April for the 2015 

COSMETEX meeting. 

Caitlin Bishop reports. 

Regenerative medicine and its potential to 

fundamentally change the way in which cosmetic 

practitioners and surgeons treat their patients was a 

primary focus of COSMETEX15. 

The three-day cosmetic medicine and surgery expo 

kicked off on April 30 and was held at The Pullman Albert 

Park Conference and Event Centre in Melbourne. 

Academics, scientists, psychologists and cosmetic 

medical practitioners from a range of disciplines 

converged at COSMETEX15 to cover topics ranging from 

beauty concepts across cultures to advances in facial 

rejuvenation, cosmeceuticals, face lifting, dermal fillers, 

tattoo removal, laser skin rejuvenation, body contouring 

and lifting. Concepts such as the way people see 

themselves, and the media’s role in shaping the “aesthetic 

ideals” in today’s society, were also explored at the 

2015 meeting. 

‘Ongoing collaboration between researchers in the labs 

and practitioners working in the field is vital for the advances 

and broadening of applications. At COSMETEX15 we 

will explore the hurdles, hopes and applications in both 

regenerative and “rejuvenative” medicine,’ says Professor 

Richard Boyd from Monash University who opened the 

session on Stem Cells at COSMETEX15. 

There were several “firsts” at this year’s event, including 

the launch of new practice standards for aesthetic nurses 

in Australia, as well as the introduction of a new laser and 

IPL safety course. 


industry 

round-up 

Cosmetic nurses release new 

draft practice standard 

Nurses and doctors are working together to raise the 

standards of cosmetic medical practice and improve 

patient care. 

The Australasian College of Cosmetic Surgery (ACCS) 

released the new Professional Practice Standards and 

Scope of Practice for Aesthetic Nursing Practice in Australia 

at COSMETEX15. This draft consultation standard is 

the first of its kind in Australia, setting the benchmark 

for nursing care in the rapidly evolving field of cosmetic 

medicine and surgery. 

ACCS nursing representative Elissa O’Keefe RN said 

that the practice standard would improve standards of 

care and could be used for recruiting new staff, developing 

position descriptions, professional development planning 

and performance appraisal. 

ACCS President Dr Soo-Keat Lim said the practice 

standard is a key reform in the nationwide effort to raise 

the standards of care and protect patients. ‘Nurses are 

an integral part of the health team, and this gives clear 

guidance for nurses, doctors and their patients about what 

an expected standard of care is,’ he said. 

Key topics & 

highlights from 

this year’s 

program include: 

• Stem Cells: Where Are We At? Controversies, 

Stem Cells and Hair Loss 

• Cosmeceuticals Masterclass 

• How People See Themselves: How Media 

Drive the Aesthetic Patient World 

• The Beautiful Face: A Better Understanding 

• Tear Trough Injecting Workshop 

• Advances in Facial Rejuvenation 

• Laser Gynaecology Workshop for Minimally 

Invasive Vaginal Rejuvenation and Tightening, 

Urinary Stress Incontinence and Prolapse 

Treatments 

• Breast Registry Update 

Cosmetic laser course launched 

In a unique joint venture, the Australasian College of 

Cosmetic Surgery (ACCS) and Laser Safety Australia 

have launched two brand new laser and intense pulsed 

light safety courses to support doctors, nurses and other 

providers of cosmetic laser treatments. 

ACCS Fellow Dr David Topchian said, ‘This course is 

unique because it has been specifically developed with 

busy clinicians in mind. It is online, rapidly accessible and 

participants are able to learn at their own pace and in their 

own time.’ 

The partners recognised the need for evidence-based 

and contemporary courses that are able to adapt and 

change with a fast-paced industry. Complaints about 

adverse outcomes to laser and IPL treatments are 

becoming more common and ACCS and Laser Safety 

Australia believe that this new partnership will help to raise 

the standards of clinical education and improve outcomes 

for cosmetic patients. csbm 


industry 

Sign up 

members 

to your 

clinic 

The new Memberships feature 

from Shortcuts software will 

keep your clients coming back 

and spending more. 

Today’s discerning clients expect more than a 

transactional relationship with the businesses they 

choose to interact with. When they select your clinic 

above your competitor’s, it’s because they believe you will 

provide them with the complete experience they are after. 

They expect you to make them feel welcome, relaxed and – 

above all – valued. 

If you can meet this expectation, you will be rewarded 

with a committed client who will keep returning time and time 

again. This is why being able to build rapport and provide 

meaningful rewards is more important than ever before. 

Membership programs are the ideal way to create this 

sense of exclusivity, while providing tangible benefits to your 

clients. The new Memberships feature from Shortcuts makes 

creating a membership program simple – and will help clinics 

encourage repeat visits and take the customer experience to 

the next level. 

This feature empowers clients to pay in regular 

installments to receive a specific set of benefits – such as six 

IPL treatments over six months, for a reduced price. There 


industry 

is no better way to reward patients, deliver results and keep clients committed. 

Most importantly, this can be achieved without the need for heavy discounting. 

Provide benefits – in a way that 

suits your business 

Similar to the membership programs seen at gyms and health clubs, clinic 

memberships are a way to offer specific benefits to clients. Most importantly, 

however, the clinic retains control over what’s on offer. 

‘Membership programs can be customised to suit any clinic – depending 

on their most popular offerings and which clients they’re hoping to cater to,’ 

Shortcuts educator Brooke Morkham-Calvert explains. ‘A clinic might have 

several membership programs on offer, depending on their specific services. By 

offering separate programs for anti-ageing, hair removal, body treatments and 

even products, you’re guaranteed to have something for everyone.’ 

ATTRACT NEW CLIENTS 

The 

benefits of 

Membership 

programs: 

Attract new clients 

Keep clients 

committed 

Provide exclusive 

benefits 

Encourage 

upselling 

Increase profits 

The flexibility of Memberships makes it an effective way to attract new clients as 

well as keeping existing clients interested. 

‘Offering a membership program is a great way to sign up new patients,’ 

Morkham-Calvert explains. ‘For example, a facial rejuvenation membership 

could involve a series of payments over six or twelve months – an attractive 

prospect for a potential new client who wants regular treatments without 

over-paying.’ 

‘You can build entire campaigns around these programs, to really start to 

increase your client base. You could even make them available solely for new 

clients who sign up – it could be that extra little incentive needed to get them 

over the line,’ Morkham-Calvert adds. 

OFFER CONVENIENCE 

‘Membership programs are particularly suited to clinics, as the investment 

required for a series of treatments can be broken into regular, smaller payments,’ 

Morkham-Calvert explains. ‘Paying a membership fee – as opposed to paying 

larger upfront sums for multiple individual treatments – can be very attractive to 

clients and encourages them to adhere to their treatment plan.’ 

‘Clinics can also choose whether clients pay upfront or in weekly, fortnightly 

or monthly instalments, depending on business needs and what they feel bests 

suits their clients,’ Morkham-Calvert adds. 

Improve profitability 

Membership programs help secure long-term client commitment by offering bitesized 

discounts or bonus add-ons. This can help increase cash flow, enables 

clinic owners to plan ahead, and also provides the perfect opportunity to upsell. 

‘We know that clients who are signed up to a membership program are far 

more likely to treat themselves to a product or add-on service during their visit, 

which is a huge driver of revenue for clinics,’ Morkham-Calvert said. 

‘As most Memberships payments are made automatically, they won’t need 

to pull out their credit card to pay for their treatment – making it much easier to 

explore additional options that could be of benefit.’ csbm 


feature 

What to 

expect 

when 

you’re 

expecting 

perfection 


feature 

Understanding your motivations 

and having realistic expectations 

are key to successful cosmetic 

surgery. caitlin bishop reports. 

Cosmetic surgery is more popular than ever before. 

With an increasing number of people seizing the 

opportunity to correct aesthetic concerns, it has 

never been more important for patients to explore their 

motivations for surgery, manage expectations and prepare 

for the psychological effects that changing the shape and 

appearance of their face and body can have. 

Cosmetic surgery will not turn you into a 

“better” person or attract the ideal partner 

Managing your expectations 

The vast majority of cosmetic procedures result in a 

successful, and very positive, outcome. However, if you’re 

expecting perfection, the results can often fall short. Realistic 

expectations are key in undergoing any form of cosmetic 

procedure. An educated and informed idea of what to 

expect during the recovery period, and as the results emerge 

in the months following the procedure, will go a long way in 

securing a positive outcome, without any surprises. 

For the right individual – usually those who are physically 

healthy and psychologically sound – cosmetic surgery can be 

a highly successful procedure that helps restore confidence, 

both inside and out. However, cosmetic surgery will not turn 

you into a “better” person, eradicate emotional problems or 

attract the ideal partner. 

There are several factors that contribute to the final result 

of any surgical procedure – there is no “one size fits all” 

result. Skin type, physiology, age and external factors will 

all influence surgical outcomes. For this reason, surgery 

should not be considered a solution to restoring youth in an 

ageing face or body. While a tightening, lifting or slimming 

effect can certainly be achieved in the short term, these all 

pertain to the appearance, and the process of ageing will 

still continue over time. 

Alongside the inevitable march of ageing, it is important 

to understand that our aesthetic concerns and ideals 

are likely to change over time also. The book Living with 

your Looks (2007) by Roberta Honigman and David J 

Castle delves into the process of ageing and changes in 


feature 

perception of appearance over time. ‘Our preoccupation 

with appearance extends right across our lives, and 

each stage creates different psychological and emotional 

responses to our bodies,’ the authors state. ‘As people 

age, their appearance concerns focus increasingly on 

the face. This was demonstrated in a study involving 24 

women ranging in age from 29 to 75 years, of whom 12 had 

undergone cosmetic surgery and 12 had not. It was found 

that the younger women were concerned more with the 

shape and appearance of their bodies, whereas the older 

women were preoccupied with their faces.’ 

To help manage expectations going into surgery, it is 

important for the patient to consult with a qualified surgeon 

to discuss their individual concerns and motivations for 

seeking surgery. By communicating which areas of the face 

and body most concerns then, the patient can help the 

surgeon tailor the procedural approach to suit their needs 

and existing anatomy. 

Furthermore, a good skincare regimen and sun 

protection following the procedure is recommended. 

This will help extend the longevity of the results and help 

slow the process of skin ageing by boosting and protecting 

skin health. 

Prepare for change 

psychologically 

As well as physically altering the body, surgery that changes 

the shape and appearance of the face and body can induce 

various psychological effects. It is well documented that, 

as well as possible physical complications, patients can 

experience psychological reactions immediately following 

cosmetic surgery. 

Some patients find themselves searching for their more 

familiar selves post surgery. It can take some time to adjust 

to a “new” face and body, and become accustomed to the 

changed figure or face reflected in the mirror. 

Certainly, post-surgical unease can compound this 

disruption in a patient’s body image. Depression from being 

inactive or isolated for a number of days post-procedure, 

combined with the effort of coping with any pain, bruising 

and swelling can contribute to a preoccupation with 

the result of surgery, regardless of whether the surgical 

outcome is successful or not. 

The key to preventing this is preparation. Being aware 

of a psychological shift, due to the physical change, can 

help patients prepare for any sense of loss or surprise they 

may feel. Given the impact of psychological complications 

post-procedure, it is important for both the patient and their 

surgeon to thoroughly explore the motivations for change 

before the surgery. 

As well as 

physically altering 

the body, surgery 

can induce various 

psychological 

effects. It can take 

some time to adjust 

to a “new” face 

and body 

Motivations for surgery 

Motivations for contemplating cosmetic surgery can be 

complicated. However, it is one of the most important 

areas to explore before deciding to go ahead with any 

cosmetic procedure. 

If cosmetic surgery is considered (even subconsciously) 

as a potential solution to fixing a failing relationship or 

succeeding professionally, the surgical result is likely to 

be disappointing or even cause for regret. Talking to an 

independent person, such as a GP or counsellor, can help 

tease out the real issues surrounding the desire to alter 

their appearance. In this, the patient may avoid undergoing 

surgery for reasons that may be inappropriate and which 

may compound their psychological issues further. 

‘When an individual makes a personal decision based on 

a desire to improve his or her confidence and self-esteem 

by altering appearance through cosmetic procedures, it 

is likely that the person will be happier with the results,’ 

Honigman and Castle state. ‘Those people having surgery 

to please others, and thereby attempt to change their lives 

as well, are more often dissatisfied with the results of the 

surgery, especially when the anticipated changes do not 

occur as they had wished.” 

Body Dysmorphic Disorder 

People suffering from body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) are 

inherently unhappy with the way they look. Sufferers can be 

obsessed with either an aspect of their appearance, or their 


nose 

body as a whole. This fixation can become so severe that 

they often think of nothing else and it compromises their 

ability to function. 

Body dysmorphic disorder is not rare and is frequently 

left undiagnosed. In the case of cosmetic surgery, BDD 

patients are unlikely to ever be satisfied. The result is either 

at odds with their expectations, or the patient will continue 

to return seeking more and more treatment. 

A pre-surgical assessment by the surgeon, including 

specific questions about appearance concerns, motivation 

for surgery and medical history is always necessary for 

the surgeon to understand the patient’s psychological and 

physical state and either prepare the person for surgery, or 

suggest an alternative approach. 

Prepare yourself physically 

During the consultation process, the surgeon will discuss 

with the patient in detail various factor to help shape realistic 

expectations going into surgery. These often include 

details of the chosen procedure, the type of anaesthesia 

to be used, the risks and limitations involved, any required 

medications, the patients expectations and goals, realistic 

outcomes, as well as the steps to take to physically prepare 

for the procedure. 

The consultation process is an important time for the 

patient to ask any questions they have about the procedure, 

the possible risks and complications and recovery and 

post-operative care. The surgeon will evaluate the shape 

and structure of the patient’s anatomy pertaining to the 

treatment area to determine which surgical techniques are 

most suitable as well as what results can be realistically 

achieved. For face surgery, this includes examining 

the patient’s skin tone and elasticity and the extent of 

tissue ageing. 

In some cases, patients might be asked to undergo lab 

testing or a medical evaluation to establish exact health 

and fitness levels. The surgeon may advise the patient to 

adjust the medications they are taking, and discourage the 

use of any forms of aspirin, as well as some vitamins and 

supplements, which can increase the risk of blood clotting. 

For those patients that smoke, you will need to stop 

smoking well in advance of the surgery, as smoking 

significantly increases surgical and anaesthetic 

complications and can impair healing post-operatively. 

As for the recovery period, there are many factors that 

can affect the length of recovery. Every person’s body has 

different tendencies toward healing, however carefully 

following the doctor’s advice can help to speed the process 

along. The nature of the recovery period will depend on the 

surgical technique and anaesthetic administered, and the 

type and extent of the surgery. 

The specific length of recovery is dependent on factors 

such as age, pre-operative activity level as well as the 

number and type of procedures that have been performed. 

However, most patients can usually return to everyday 

activities after between two and three weeks. Final results 

may not be evident until several months after surgery. csbm 


feature 

BREAST 

SURGERY 

in 2015 


feature 

THE NUMBER OF OPTIONS IN BREAST ENHANCEMENT SURGERY 

TODAY MEANS THERE’S A PROCEDURE TO SUIT EVERY PATIENT’S NEEDS. 

CAITLIN BISHOP REPORTS. 

Breast surgery is more customisable than ever before. 

Research spanning decades has helped formulate 

surgical and aesthetic techniques that have placed 

breast surgery at the forefront of today’s plastic and 

reconstructive arena. 

The expertise garnered through years of investigation 

from leading aesthetic surgeons around the globe means 

breast surgery today offers more individualised results, with 

less scarring and reduced downtime following surgery. 

The implants used in breast augmentation have 

been improved and refi ned through both design and 

manufacturing. Features to reduce the risk of capsular 

contracture and prevent implant rotation, gel diffusion and 

implant rupture help achieve superior results with fewer 

incidences of complication. 

Surgical techniques have also changed. Different implant 

placement and incision sites afford breast augmentation 

patients more options in scar placement and aesthetic 

outcomes. Surgical advances in breast reduction have led 

to improved results, with less downtime. And a greater 

understanding of breast anatomy and aesthetics has made 

correcting deformities, such as tuberous breasts and 

asymmetry, more effective than ever before. 

Breast surgery in 2015 encompasses a range of 

procedures to suit the functional and aesthetic concerns 

of most women. Here, we outline the most common 

procedures performed today and how the surgical 

approach can be tailored to meet each patient’s needs, 

concerns and expectations. 

Breast augmentation 

When considering implant shape, texture and size in 

breast augmentation, a decision is made with reference 

to a woman’s individual body type and aesthetic goals. 

During the consultation process, measurements are taken 

to determine the anatomical limitations and allowances of 

the breasts, chest and soft tissue, and patients are able 

to express their motivations, concerns and expectations 

going into surgery. 

The choice of projection is a very personal one. A woman 

who is happy with her shape and has suffi cient breast 

tissue may opt for a low-profi le implant that will simply 

increase the size of her breasts. Another patient may favour 

a high-profi le implant to reduce sag and generate cleavage. 

Ultimately, a thorough understanding of the implants, 

their shapes, fi lls and placement will help ensure a 

satisfactory outcome. 

Implant fill 

There are two types of implant fi lling: silicone gel and saline 

solution. Both are encased within an outer shell of silicone. 

Silicone gel implants are touted to have a more natural 

feel than their saline-fi lled counterparts, and the gel’s 

cohesive consistency helps retain implant shape following 

insertion. In comparison, saline-fi lled implants are fi rmer to 

touch, and have a greater chance of rippling after insertion. 

If implant rupture occurs with saline-fi lled implants, 

the saline solution will be absorbed into the body and the 

rupture will be immediately noticeable to the patient. When 

using silicone gel fi lled implants, rupture is less noticeable 

and can remain undetected for longer periods of time, 

which is cause for concern to some doctors and patients. 

Although the length of incision will depend on the size 

of the implant, there are slight differences between saline 

and silicone gel fi lled implants. Because silicone gel is 

manufactured into the implant before surgery, the incision 

sites must be slightly longer than those required for saline 

implants, which can be fi lled through valves once inside the 

breast pocket. 

Implant shape 

Implants come in round, teardrop (anatomical) and conical 

shapes. The round and teardrop options are the most 

popular in modern-day breast surgery. 

Round implants come in smooth and textured shells, and 

will usually lend more upper pole fullness than anatomically 

shaped implants. When the patient is upright, a round 

implant can assume a defi ned, round shape or a teardroplike 

contour, depending on its fi ll. 

Anatomical (teardrop) implants have a fuller lower pole, 

and the shape more closely resembles that of the natural 

breast. Their design gives them greater projection in relation 

to the size of the base, making them particularly suitable 

for women with little breast tissue. A precise degree of 

accuracy is needed when positioning anatomical implants, 

because if they shift after surgery the shape of the breast 

may be noticeably distorted. To reduce this risk, anatomical 

implants will always have a textured surface to enable 

adherence to surrounding tissue. 


feature 

Implant texture 

The surface of breast implants can either be smooth or 

textured. Smooth-shelled implants are acclaimed for their 

natural movement and feel, they are relatively easy to 

insert during surgery and have a thinner shell than textured 

implants. There is a downside to smooth implants, however: 

they have a greater chance of capsular contracture 

(hardening of the breast), which is a common reason for 

revision surgery. 

In comparison, textured implants – usually coated 

with polyurethane foam – exhibit greater adherence to 

surrounding tissue, meaning there is less friction between 

the implant and breast pocket. This reduces the change 

of capsular contracture and helps protect against implant 

movement following surgery. 

Implant placement 

Breast implants can be placed either above or below the 

pectoral muscle and, in some cases, a dual plane approach 

means the implant is partially placed in both fi elds. 

Subglandular placement is when the implant is positioned 

above the pectoral muscle, beneath the glandular breast 

tissue. This implant positioning is best suited to patients 

who have adequate existing breast tissue, as this tissue 

will cover the implant’s edges after insertion. Subglandular 

implant placement often causes a pronounced ‘roundness’ 

to the breasts, and the implant moves relatively naturally in 

this position following surgery. 

In patients with less soft tissue in the breast area, 

implants placed underneath the pectoral muscle – 

called submuscular implant positioning – are often less 

conspicuous. This placement helps camoufl age the implant 

edges and can create a more natural-looking contour at the 

top of the breasts. 

In dual plane placement, the implant is placed partially 

beneath the pectoral muscle in the upper pole, while the 

lower half of the implant falls in the subglandular plane. 

This placement will camoufl age upper implant edges 

and provide full projection in the lower pole, suited to 

women with a high degree of sag or an accentuated 

breast fold. It will reduce the defi ned ‘roundness’ usually 

associated with subglandular implants and will offer a 

natural breast contour. 

The incision site 

The incision site will determine the visibility of scars and is 

generally decided based upon the personal preferences of 

the patient and surgeon. There are surgical advantages and 

drawbacks for each site. 

The inframammary incision is the most common incision 

site for breast implant placement and it is made in the 

inframammary fold, or the crease under the breast. 

The periareolar incision is made on the border of the 

areolar – the area of darker skin surrounding the nipple. 

A transaxillary incision is made in the armpit fold, and 

a channel is created to deliver the implant to the breast 

pocket. And, fi nally the transumbilical incision, which is not 

so commonly used, is made on the rim of the navel and an 

endoscope is used to tunnel to the breast. 

Breast lifting 

Mastopexy – commonly known as a breast lift – can 

help restore height, volume and shape to the breast. 

Breast implants may also be used in conjunction with this 

procedure to achieve the desired result. 

During breast lift surgery, excess skin is removed to lift and 

reshape the breast, creating a more youthful contour. The 

appropriate technique and incision pattern is determined 

according to the size, shape and degree of sagging of the 

breast, as well as the position and size of the nipple. The 

nipple is lifted and reshaped to appear smaller, rounder 

and more in proportion with the new breast. The skin that 

surrounds the areola is brought together to contour and 

reshape the breast. 

Breast reduction 

Breast reduction (or reduction mammoplasty) is a surgical 

procedure to remove excess breast and fatty tissue from the 

breast. It seeks to relieve symptoms caused by very large 

breasts, including back and neck pain, breast tenderness, 

shoulder grooving (from bra straps), intertrigo (rash 

between folds of skin) and overall discomfort participating 

in everyday activities. 


feature 

Breast surgery today 

offers more individualised 

results, with less scarring 

and reduced downtime 

following surgery 

Areolar reshaping surgery is performed to 

address the size and shape of areolar, according to 

the patient’s concerns or in conjunction with other 

breast surgeries – for example the areolar might be resized 

to achieve a more aesthetic result in breast augmentation 

or reduction. 

In areolar reduction, some of the pigmented skin around 

the nipple is excised. This involves an incision around the 

perimeter of the areolar. Areolar augmentation is more 

diffi cult to achieve, however some enlargement of the areolar 

may occur as a result of breast augmentation surgery. 

Correcting breast deformities 

In most cases, breast reduction is performed through one 

vertical incision around the areolar and down to the breast 

crease. A portion of fat and excess tissue is then removed. 

The nipple and areolar are repositioned and the skin under 

the breast is resculpted. Breast reduction surgery results in 

smaller, more aesthetically shaped breasts, with improved 

support, lift and overall fullness. 

Nipple and areolar surgery 

Nipple surgery is a procedure growing fast in popularity, 

and can be performed to correct inverted nipples, reduce 

overly large nipples and address protruding or misshapen 

nipples. The procedure can be combined with other 

types of breast surgery to create a more aesthetically 

complete result. 

The nipple is made up of two parts – the actual nipple, 

which is the protruding part that holds the milk ducts, and 

the areolar, which is the pigmented area surrounding the 

nipple. The areolar contracts to assist in nipple projection. 

In cases of inverted nipples – when the nipples either 

do not protrude from the breast or turn inwards under 

stimulation – nipple correction surgery can be performed 

to permanently protract the nipple. Women with inverted 

nipples are more likely to experience complications with 

breastfeeding and, in some cases, surgery can exacerbate 

this further. 

The actual nipples themselves can also be reduced 

in length and thickness. Tips of nipples can be surgically 

removed, and a wedge can be excised from the nipple to 

reduce its diameter. 

Tuberous breasts 

Tuberous breasts – also referred to as constricted breasts 

or ‘snoopy’ breasts – is a medical condition that causes the 

breasts to appear tight, button-like and widely spaced. The 

deformity is caused by stymied development and a high 

degree of fi brosis in the breast tissue. 

A common side effect of tuberous breasts is low volume 

– meaning breast augmentation is usually necessary to 

correct the deformity and achieve an aesthetic result. 

However, a particular surgical approach is required to 

navigate the high degree of fi brous tissue and balance the 

extent of the condition in different breast quadrants – the 

extent of fi brosis is often uneven between different sections 

of each breast. 

During surgery, the fi brous area is surgically released and 

an artifi cial pocket is created to hold the implant. Because 

tuberous breasts are tighter and more fi brous, there is often 

not much capacity for achieving great volume in corrective 

augmentation. 

Breast asymmetry 

Most women have breast asymmetry to some degree. 

Breast asymmetry can consist of differences to the actual 

breast size, the position of the nipple areolar complex, the 

positing of the breast on the chest wall and the anatomy of 

the chest wall itself. 

Breast asymmetry can be addressed surgically in several 

ways. Volume discrepancies are typically corrected using 

different sized implants in breast augmentation patients, 

and one breast can be lifted, as well as augmented, to 

correct drooping asymmetry. 

In breast reduction surgery, more breast tissue can be 

excised from one breast compared to the other and, once 

again, differentiated lifting can be performed to return the 

breasts to a more symmetrical position. 

In cases of chest wall deformities, the surgeon will 

usually address the contour of the chest wall while at 

the same time exploring breast enhancement options. 

Nipple repositioning can also be effective in reducing the 

appearance of breast asymmetry. csbm 


easts 

Breast 

Beauty 

BREAST AUGMENTATION SHOULD HARMONISE 

THE BREAST AND THE BODY TO CREATE A 

BEAUTIFUL, PROPORTIONATE FORM, SAYS 

SYDNEY PLASTIC SURGEON DR STEVEN LIEW. 

Surgical procedures and implant types have become more 

advanced over the past decade. An experienced surgeon 

can effectively customise breast shape and size to match the 

requirements and expectations of breast surgery patients. 

Sydney plastic surgeon Dr Steven Liew says most women who 

are contemplating breast surgery women tend to be focussed only 

on their dream cup size. But helping patients decide on the perfect 

breast shape, says Dr Liew, is the single most important factor to 

ensuring the best results. 

‘Beautiful breasts come in many shapes and sizes. But years 

of experience have taught me almost all women seeking breast 

surgery have just three basic desires,’ he says. These desires are: 

• A breast size in proportion with their body, giving them symmetry 

and balance 

• Fullness and perkiness – especially in the upper part of the 

breasts 

• Cleavage. 

‘Once the degree of fullness on the top, side and base of the 

breasts is agreed upon, the cup size and implant size are easily 

determined,’ says Dr Liew. ‘It really boils down to a patient’s 

preferences.’ 

Dr Liew says the age and personality of a patient also needs 

to be considered. Younger patients tend to request a little more 

fullness in the upper part of the breast. Women over 40 also want 

a fuller breast, but generally opt for a more conservative approach. 

‘Ultimately the best outcomes are almost always a combined 

effort between the patient’s desires and the surgical skills, artistry 

and aesthetic judgment of her surgeon,’ he says. 

The cases shown here demonstrate Dr Liew’s approach to 

creating beautiful breasts: the lower and upper part of the breasts 

shaped to the ideal proportions for each patient to create the perfect 

shape and fi t. csbm 

Actual patient of Dr Liew 


easts 

Natural-looking breasts of different sizes, with a gentle slope from the chest 

to the nipple – almost a straight line – to fit the patients’ requirements 

1 

BEFORE AFTER breast augmentation by Dr Liew AFTER breast augmentation by Dr Liew 

2 


3 



easts 

Natural-looking breasts of different sizes with a gentle curve to the upper pole 

and a moderate degree of fullness to fit the patients’ requirements 

1 


2 


3 



easts 

Natural-looking breasts of different sizes with significant convex curve to the upper 

pole, the so-called ‘pushup bra’ look to fit the patients’ requirements 

1 


2 


3 



easts 

Are you 

chasing 

a price 

point 

or an 

effective 

result? 

Breast augmentation 

is a popular 

procedure, but 

don’t let “discount” 

surgeries lull you 

into a false sense 

of security. Caitlin 

Bishop reports. 


easts 

Dr John Flynn, a cosmetic doctor in practise on the Gold Coast in 

Queensland, says the popularity of breast augmentation and the discount 

options emerging in today’s market have caused a surge in the uptake of 

breast implant augmentation. However, this rise may lull the patient into a false 

sense of security. 

‘Breast augmentation is an extremely common procedure – especially in 

younger women,’ he says. ‘My concern, however, is that breast augmentation 

is becoming so popular that there is a danger of trivialising the procedure and 

overlooking the chances of complications and post-operative difficulties.’ 

According to Dr Flynn, the same goes for surgery procedures performed 

overseas. ‘When surgery is performed in the same town as the surgeon, it’s easier 

to manage any complications,’ he explains. ‘When the surgeon is located some 

3,000km away, this becomes more difficult, particularly with the communication 

and interpretation issues that sometimes arise. When patients are chasing a 

price tag, they often don’t consider if the procedure is actually suitable for them, 

and the possibility of complications post-operation.’ 

Certainly, some breast augmentation procedures can be straightforward, 

with minimal complications. However in those cases that call for a slightly more 

complicated surgical approach, or in revision breast augmentation procedures, 

the surgeon needs to have sufficient experience and expertise to account for the 

increased likelihood of a problem, according to Dr Flynn. 

‘Straightforward breast augmentations aside, other patients present with a 

very different situation,’ says Dr Flynn. ‘They might present with major differences 

between the breasts, or they may have tuberous or sagging breasts.’ 

‘These patients call for a special type of surgical approach, and can’t be 

treated with the “one-size fit all” approach,’ he adds. ‘Experience and expertise 

is paramount to achieving the best results in these patients – not only to deal 

with the surgery but also to recognise the condition in consultation, and to tailor 

the surgery accordingly.’ 

This awareness in consultation is particularly necessary in patients presenting 

with tuberous breasts. ‘Tuberous breasts affects the anatomy of the breasts and 

warrants a different surgical approach in breast augmentation,’ Dr Flynn explains. 

‘In less severe cases, patients approach me seeking breast augmentation and 

can be unaware that they even have the condition. A thorough consultation is 

necessary to diagnose the condition and establish the best surgical plan.’ 

In primary breast augmentation, some common complications following 

surgery include capsular contracture and implant rupture or repositioning. 

‘Capsular contracture is one of the most common complications following breast 

augmentation surgery. It occurs when the breast tissue contracts around the 

implant and the breast often appears hard and distorted in shape,’ he explains. 

‘The type of surgery required to correct this is far more complicated than a 

primary augmentation procedure.’ 

Dr Flynn has more than 30 years’ experience in aesthetic surgery. He has an 

extensive history of achieving successful results in both primary augmentations 

and secondary or revision procedures. 

‘I’m not talking about limiting competition. Competition is healthy – it means 

everyone has to work harder,’ he says. ‘Prices need to be competitive, but they 

also need to be realistic and not dictate the quality of care provided.’ csbm 


easts 

Tuberous breasts 

Tuberous breasts are caused by stymied development 

and a high degree of fibrous tissue in the breast. This 

means the natural breast is small and constricted with tight 

fibrous tissue. 

A common side effect of tuberous breasts is low volume, 

and for this reason an implant is needed to correct the 

condition. Dr Flynn creates an artificial pocket in the breast 

tissue, and selects the implant volume according to the 

patient’s existing tissue and wants. 

‘In order to insert an implant, the fibrous pocked needs 

to be opened and an artificial pocket in the breast tissue 

needs to be created,’ he explains. ‘A number of incisions 

are made on the outside of the fibrous bundle to create 

“pleats” and expand the space.’ 

In its most severe form, the tuberous abnormality is seen 

in all the quadrants of the breast but there can be different 

varieties of the condition. For example, constriction can 

occur only in the lower portion of the breast, while the top is 

fully developed. Similarly, there can be differences between 

the two breasts – one breast may be fully constricted, and 

the other normally developed. 

‘The surgery is a balancing act, especially when there 

is unevenness between the breasts, or within one breast,’ 

Dr Flynn explains. ‘For example, when the constriction is 

only in the lower segment, the surgeon must create an even 

balance between the upper and lower poles of the breasts. 

If the condition is different between both breasts, then it 

becomes about balancing the two.’ 

breast 

surgery 

case 

studies 

BEFORE 

AFTER breast augmentation by Dr Flynn 

BEFORE 

AFTER tuberous breast augmentation by Dr Flynn 

BEFORE 

AFTER breast reduction by Dr Flynn 




WHAT TO 

EXPECT WHEN 

YOU’RE 

EXPECTING 

PERFECTION 

TREATMENTS 

TO BANISH 

SCARS FOR 

GOOD 

SOS 

WINTER SKIN 

SAVIOURS 

9 771833 383011 

ISSN 1834-383X 

04 

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nose 

by a nose 

Consistently in the top 5 most popular cosmetic procedures, 

we take a closer look at the intricate procedure that is rhinoplasty. 

Nose surgery, or rhinoplasty, has long been one of 

the most frequently performed plastic surgery 

procedures. While some want their nose reshaped 

because they are unhappy with the nose they were born 

with, others become unhappy as ageing changes the 

appearance of their nose. For others, an injury may have 

bent or distorted the nose, or they may have grown tired of 

functional concerns. Whatever the complaint, one thing is 

clear: nothing has a greater impact on how a person looks 

than the size and shape of the nose. 

Because the nose is the most defining characteristic of 

the face, a slight alteration can greatly improve a person’s 

appearance. Similarly, a slight imperfection – caused by 

injury, ageing or genetics – can have an overwhelmingly 

negative impact on the rest the face. Fortunately, surgeons 

are equipped with a number of techniques that allow them 

to disguise imperfections and restore a nose that is not only 

beautiful, but in keeping with the rest of the face. 

The techniques used to augment or sculpt the nose differ 

depending on the desired outcome, the preference of the 

surgeon and the functional properties of the nose. Before 

the 1970s, the procedure was generally performed via the 

intranasal approach, referred to as ‘closed rhinoplasty’. In 

1973, however, Dr Wilfred S Goodman initiated a shift in 


nose 

approach was further popularised and refined by Dr Jack 

Anderson, who wrote Open Rhinoplasty: An Assessment in 

1982. Although the technique was initially used for first-time 

rhinoplasty, towards the late 1980s the open technique 

started to become more prevalent in secondary, or revision 

rhinoplasty, encouraged by the work of Dr Jack P Gunter. 

During open rhinoplasty, an incision is made at the 

base of the columella – the tissue and skin that separate 

the nostrils at the base of the nose. The nasal skin is then 

carefully lifted back, allowing the surgeon to work on the 

cartilage and tissue inside the nose. 

Because the inner cartilage network and underlying 

structure of the nose is exposed, the surgeon has greater 

visibility than with closed rhinoplasty, and is able to work 

on the inner structure of the nose with more precision and 

freedom. Open rhinoplasty is therefore often chosen for 

more complicated cases, where considerable work may be 

required in order to achieve the desired outcome. 

Because the nose is the most 

defining characteristic of the 

face, a slight alteration can result 

in a great improvement 

technique when he published the paper External Approach 

to Rhinoplasty, detailing what has become known as ‘open 

rhinoplasty’. Today, both open and closed techniques are 

widely used by surgeons, each having their own relative 

merits and disadvantages. 

Although the end-goal is often the same – either to 

build-up (augment) or reduce the size of the nose – the 

two techniques differ primarily in their access to the nasal 

structure. In open rhinoplasty, the surgeon will make a small 

incision between the nostrils, and go on to make a number 

of additional incisions inside the nose. Closed rhinoplasty, 

on the other hand, involves incisions made only to the 

interior of the nose. 

Rhinoplasty for cosmetic purposes grew in popularity 

throughout the 20th Century and, consequently, 

techniques were continually evolving. However, it wasn’t 

until Dr Goodman’s paper in 1973 that open rhinoplasty 

as a technique became more readily available. This new 

The open technique, for example, can be helpful 

when performing cleft lip operations, or during revision 

rhinoplasty when an earlier procedure has left a nose 

pulled too high and structural grafts are required. In these 

scenarios, surgeons will tend to favour open rhinoplasty 

due to the extra visibility given by revealing the internal 

structure of the nose. 

The open technique also helps ensure the basic 

foundation of the nasal structure is kept strong, facilitating 

a natural-looking outcome. It also leads to a more stable 

shape post-surgery, helping to safeguard against collapse. 

Because an incision is made at the base of the columella, 

the open technique will leave a small scar on the underside 

of the nose. This will fade over time and, in most cases, 

become barely noticeable. The patient may also experience 

swelling, bruising and numbness for a more drawn out 

period of time than with the closed approach to rhinoplasty. 

Whereas the open technique may be used to tackle 

complex cases, closed rhinoplasty is generally used to 

address minor defects. The operation is much quicker, 

typically taking between one and two hours – around half 

the time taken to perform closed rhinoplasty and because 

all incisions are made inside the nostrils, the procedure 

does not result in visible scarring. Given this minimally 

invasive approach, healing and recovery time is also less, 

as are swelling, bruising and numbness of the nasal tip 

post-surgery. 


nose 

Anatomy & Function 

There’s a good reason rhinoplasty is often referred to as 

the most intricate of facial surgeries. An intricate network 

of bones, cartilage, cells, blood vessels, nerves and skin, 

rhinoplasty needs to not only improve the appearance of 

the nose, but also maintain or improve upon its function. 

Different parts work together to filter the air that then enters 

the lungs, and to send messages to the brain to enable the 

sense of smell. 

The nose can be divided into two main parts – the 

external and the cavity. A ‘wall’ called the nasal septum 

divides these sections vertically. 

‘External’ refers to the actual structure of the nose, 

comprising bone, cartilage and tissue. At the very top 

of the nose, two nasal bones link the nose to the frontal 

bone of the forehead. These bones form the ‘bridge’ of the 

nose, or dorsum. The lower part of the external structure is 

made up of cartilage and tissue, which give shape to the 

nose. The nasal bones give way to septal cartilage, which 

forms the dividing wall of the nose. Further down, major alar 

cartilage runs from the tip to either side of the nose, forming 

the nostrils. 

The internal structure of the nose centres around the 

nasal cavity, which can be thought of as a tunnel with an 

opening on the face and an opening at the top of the throat. 

The nasal septum divides the cavity vertically. The upper 

part of the nasal cavity is lined by the olfactory epithelium, 

which contains receptor cells that detect odours and enable 

the sense of smell. 

Three small bones called turbinates protrude into the 

nasal cavity on either side, which help to maintain the 

temperature, humidification and filtration of the air as it 

passes through the nostrils. The lungs need to be supplied 

with air that is around 35 degrees centigrade and 95 percent 

humidity, and therefore the nose is structured to not only 

receive the air but also to warm and filter it prior to entering 

the lungs. 

Often, the type of surgery selected will come down to 

the preference of the surgeon. Where some prefer open 

surgery because it unveils the underlying structure of the 

nose, others prefer the closed approach because it offers 

better ability to judge the final shape and contour of the 

nose. This is because there are no external incisions 

compromising the appearance of the nose. 

The closed technique offers surgeons considerable 

freedom to reshape the nose. Bone and cartilage can both 

be removed using this technique or in some cases taken 

from other parts of the body and used to better shape and 

support the nose. 

However, despite offering plenty of scope to address 

minor modifications, the main disadvantage of the closed 

technique is its limited use. Although suitable for reshaping 

the contours of the nose, complex cases cannot be tackled 

as effectively with closed rhinoplasty. 

Relatively recently, non-surgical techniques have also 

been adopted in order to correct minor irregularities in the 

nose, allowing suitable candidates to alter their appearance 

without having to undergo surgery. 

Already known for their ability to ease the appearance 

of wrinkles, fillers are increasingly being used to refine facial 

contours. Indeed, nasal irregularities can be corrected 

using either temporary or long-lasting dermal fillers, allowing 

suitable patients to alter their appearance without the need 

for surgery. 

Non-surgical rhinoplasty can correct minor external 

nasal deformities, depressions, asymmetries, collapsed 

nasal bridges and saddle noses. It can also be an effective 

technique for making corrections post-surgery where the 

results of earlier rhinoplasty have been unsatisfactory. 

A relatively quick procedure, non-surgical rhinoplasty 

requires no anaesthesia and involves minimal downtime. 

Most fillers will leave residual redness and slight tenderness 

for up to a few days and patients can expect slight swelling 

and bruising.he results are immediately evident and can last 

up to a year in some patients. 

Recently, non-surgical 

techniques have been adopted 

in order to help correct minor 

irregularities in the nose 

Sometimes, surgeons are called on to address 

complications from earlier rhinoplasty procedures. 

Considered one of the most difficult forms of cosmetic 

surgery to perform, revision rhinoplasty, or ‘secondary’ 

rhinoplasty, involves the correction of previous cosmetic 

procedures. 

Despite the best efforts of any skilled surgeon, revision 

rhinoplasty is necessary in five to 12 per cent of rhinoplasty 

cases. Whilst some may require only minor adjustments, 

others may need major modification, and may be a result of 

too much or too little bone, cartilage or tissue having been 


nose 

Both the nostrils and the nasal cavity are lined with 

mucous membranes and small hairs called cilia. Together 

with the mucous produced by the membranes, the cilia 

fi lter the air and prevent the entry of dust, germs and other 

unwanted particles into the respiratory system. Should 

something become stuck in the nose, a sneeze is triggered 

to clear it out. The mucous also helps moisten the air, and 

blood capillaries located beneath the mucous membrane 

help to warm it before it reaches the lungs. 

Paranasal sinuses, located behind the bones above and 

behind the eyes and behind the ethmoids, assist with air 

fi ltration by producing mucous. Hollow air cavities lined with 

mucous membranes, sinuses help warm and humidify the 

air that passes through the nasal cavity, while also improving 

vocal resonance. 

removed, resulting in a nose that is too large or too small 

for their face. 

The techniques adopted for secondary rhinoplasty will 

vary from one patient to the next and according to the 

issues that need to be corrected. Implants or grafts may be 

needed to fi ll in dips and smooth the contours of the nose, 

or breathing diffi culties caused by the initial rhinoplasty may 

need to be addressed. 

Because the procedure takes place after an original 

surgery, the presence of scar tissue makes secondary 

rhinoplasty diffi cult. Because of this, it is usually recommended 

that patients requiring revision rhinoplasty wait at least one 

year from the date of their last nasal operation. 

Ultimately, the technique used for any rhinoplasty 

surgery will come down to the goals and desired results of 

the patient, as well as the surgeon’s personal preference. 

However, with so many variables, the most suitable 

approach to each individual’s rhinoplasty should only be 

decided after careful and detailed discussion between the 

patient and surgeon. 

No matter which technique is adopted, there’s no 

doubt a well performed rhinoplasty can result in siginifi cant 

changes to not only the appearance of the nose, but to the 

face as a whole. csbm 


nose 

Look better in 

luxury 

Sydney ENT and facial cosmetic surgeon Dr William Mooney 

offers patients several surgical and non-surgical options in facial 

rejuvenation. Caitlin Bishop reports. 

Rhinoplasty, or nose surgery, is one of the most 

popular cosmetic procedures – sought out to reduce, 

augment, narrow, widen, straighten or reshape the 

nose – but it is also one of the most complex. Because the 

nose acts as an anchor to the face, any adjustment to the 

length, width or symmetry of the nose can have a major 

impact upon the overall facial aesthetic. 

Sydney ENT and facial cosmetic surgeon Dr William 

Mooney explains rhinoplasty combines the central pillars of 

cosmetic surgery: art and science. 

‘The nose is a vital, complicated organ; it’s a gateway to 

the upper respiratory tract, the egress to the nasal sinuses 

and, unfortunately, there are a lot of problems that can 

affect its functioning,’ he says. ‘When patients come to me 

because they’re unhappy with the shape of their nose, we 

also address the underlying functional problems. They often 

leave happier with their new improved nasal airways than 

their appearance.’ 

Rhinoplasty addresses both the aesthetics and 

functionality of the nose. Dr Mooney favours the “open” 

surgical technique, which involves a small incision between 

the nostrils to afford maximum surgical access. 

Certain functional problems can also contribute to an 

aged or tired appearance. For this reason, Dr Mooney 

explains the aesthetic benefits of rhinoplasty are often 

double-fold. 

‘Problems such as difficulty breathing, allergies, 

snoring and sleep apnea – not to mention post-traumatic 

obstructions – often occur alongside cosmetic concerns,’ 

he explains. ‘Although these might seem like little things on 

their own, when combined they can really impinge upon 

quality of life. For example, if you don’t breathe properly, 

particularly at night, this can lead to a tired and drawn 

appearance, and also affect your mood.’ 

For those patients concerned with ageing, Dr Mooney 

says nose surgery can often help revitalise a heavy, aged or 

tired appearance. 

‘As we age, noses become bigger and more irregular,’ 

he explains. ‘Deviations in noses are like the leaning tower of 

Pisa – they often progress as time goes by. As well as this, 

the skin becomes thinner during ageing so any irregularities 

become more pronounced.’ 

According to Dr Mooney, nose surgery is just one 

element in improving quality of life and overall health. 

He encourages patients to make some easy lifestyle 

adjustments to improve the results of surgery, and 

commonly prescribes a simple skincare regime to optimise 

universal results. csbm 


feature nose 

Face Plus Medispa 

Face Plus Medispa by Dr Mooney offers a bespoke selection of the latest antiageing, 

skincare and facial aesthetic treatments. 

‘Whether it’s good quality skincare, laser skin resurfacing, injectables or 

medical-grade facials, my philosophy in achieving the best possible results 

involves what I refer to as “the layer cake” approach. In my experience, smaller, 

incremental changes that target different layers of the skin yield the most 

satisfying and natural-looking results,’ says Dr Mooney. 

‘Subtlety is the key. ‘Natural” is always going to be more attractive than 

looking artificial or “too done”,’ he continues. ‘By addressing the skin in layers, 

much like the cake metaphor, we can correct areas of concern and get the skin 

looking and functioning its best – for many years to come.’ 

At Face Plus, Dr Mooney and his team of qualified nurses and aestheticians 

tailor an innovative treatment menu according to each client’s needs. ‘We offer a 

free skin assessment, whereby we discuss the current state of the patient’s skin, 

their areas of concern, the aesthetic treatments most appropriate for them, as 

well as their lifestyle habits,’ he explains. 

‘Importantly, not everything has to be done at once; patients can pick and 

choose from their customised menu what treatments or skincare products they 

wish to use according to their wishes and budgets. We draw up a longer term 

treatment and skincare plan for them – what’s right for them in their 20s and 30s 

won’t necessarily be as effective in their 40s and 50s.’ 

Some of the treatments on offer at Face Plus Medispa include: 

Laser rejuvenation 

This non-ablative laser treatment is 

used to reduce the appearance of fine 

lines, enhance the complexion and 

ward off the visible signs of ageing. 

Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) 

treatments 

Reduce the appearance of sun spots, 

pigmentation and melasma with this 

non-invasive light treatment. 

LED therapy 

LED therapy kickstarts your skin’s 

natural cellular processes to reduce 

pore size, improve skin health, remove 

bacteria and promote healing. 

Anti-ageing facials 

A selection of bespoke luxury facial 

treatments is available at Face 

Plus Medispa. These are ideal for 

promoting vitality, restoring elasticity 

and reinforcing skin structure. 

Facial peels 

Face Plus Medispa offers a selection 

of facial peels for various anti-ageing 

and rejuvenating concerns, including 

chemical peels, enzyme peels and 

herbal peels. 

Factor 4 

This autologous anti-ageing serum 

contains a high concentration of 

growth factors from the patient’s own 

blood plasma. When injected, it helps 

stimulate collagen production and 

increase skin elasticity. 

rocess. 

Injectables 

Dr Mooney and the aesthetic team at 

Face Plus Medispa use anti-wrinkle 

injections and dermal fillers to address 

a wide range of aesthetic concerns. 

From enhancing the lips and chin, to 

performing an entire “liquid facelift”, 

there are several options for nonsurgical 

facial rejuvenation. 

www.cosbeauty.com.au 59 

59

face 

delaying 

surgery 

Sydney cosmetic physician Dr Buddy Beaini uses several minimally 

invasive procedures to help reverse the signs of ageing in cosmetic 

patients. Caitlin Bishop reports. 

Minimally invasive procedures are the fastest growing 

sector of the cosmetic arena, and for good reason. 

From minor surgeries to non-surgical face lifting, 

there are several options for facial rejuvenation that don’t 

involve the downtime associated with surgery. 

Sydney cosmetic physician Dr Buddy Beaini says 

minimally invasive options can help reverse the outward 

signs of ageing and delay surgery. ‘When selected 

appropriately and used in combination, minimally invasive 

procedures can make a patient look five to 10 years 

younger,’ he says. 

Dr Beaini offers a range of light therapies, thread lifting 

procedures and injectable treatments at his MD Cosmedical 

Solutions clinics in Sydney’s CBD and Wahroonga, and 

Barton in Canberra. The combination of these modalities 

delivers an individualised approach to effectively address 

each patients’ needs and concerns. ‘With the advanced 

technology and techniques we have access to today, facial 

rejuvenation has developed dramatically, giving patients the 

options to look and feel younger without the need for major 

surgery. In particular, thread lifting, blepharoplasty and bat 

ear correction (otoplasty) are minimally invasive procedures 

that can achieve significant results,’ Dr Beaini explains. 

‘During consultation, I ask my patients to describe their 

main concerns and I will discuss with them a number of 

relevant treatment options, including the advantages, 

disadvantages, success rates, downtime and budget 

involved,’ he adds. ‘For those patients who are less specific, 

and are hoping to look younger, fresher, rejuvenated or 

“happier”, I make an assessment of how we can improve 

the patient’s overall image and appearance.’ 

Thread lifting 

Thread lifting is suitable for those patients hoping to reverse 

the descent of facial soft tissue associated with ageing, or 

even to delay the need for a surgical facelift. It is a minimally 

invasive procedure used to lift the brow, face and neck, 

as well as reposition the cheeks, reduce the jowls and 

enhance the lips. 

The procedure involves inserting dissolvable threads 

into the skin’s dermis. This triggers the production of 

new connective fibres and acts as a support structure, 

lifting and bolstering the tissue for an anti-ageing and 

rejuvenating effect. 

‘I have been performing mini-facelifts and neck lifts 

with threads over the past two years and we have seen 

exceptional face lifting and rejuvenation results in more than 

95 percent of our patients,’ says Dr Beaini. ‘Thread lifting is 

commonly used to address mid-face drooping, deep cheek 


face 

Vaginal rejuvenation 

Dr Beaini is now offering a new non-surgical 

treatment for vaginal and bladder rejuvenation. The 

Aphrodite gynaecology treatment use laser energy 

to help improve gynaecological health, boost sexual 

satisfaction and relieve stress incontinence. 

Women experiencing vaginal dysfunction – in the 

way of dryness or discomfort during intercourse, 

leaking of the bladder when sneezing, coughing or 

laughing, or persistent irritation and inflammation 

– often put the symptoms down to the inevitable 

effects of ageing. Now, with advancements in laser 

technology, the Aphrodite treatments can deliver a 

non-surgical method for rejuvenating the surrounding 

muscles and improving vaginal and bladder function. 

wrinkles, deep nasolabial lines, excessive jowling and neck 

laxity. Other concerns include brow droop, facial asymmetry 

and loss of cheek positioning.’ 

Eyelid hooding surgery 

‘When we look at an individual’s face, our attention first 

focuses on the eyes, and any abnormality or asymmetry,’ 

Dr Beaini explains. For this reason, blepharoplasty – or 

eyelid hooding surgery – can achieve significant results in 

rejuvenating the entire face. 

The procedure involves excising excess fat and skin from 

the upper and/or lower eyelids to open the eyes for a fresher, 

more alert appearance. The day surgery is performed under 

local anaesthesia, and can be used in conjunction with 

other treatments such as brow thread lifting, non-invasive 

skin tightening and laser skin rejuvenation. 

Bat ear correction 

Dr Beaini offers a permanent non-surgical treatment to 

correct and reshape protruding ears (bat ear correction). 

He performs the procedure with a mild sedative and local 

anaesthesia; no hospitalisation, general anaesthetic or 

surgical incisions are required. 

‘Any abnormality and asymmetry in facial appearance will 

attract attention, which is particularly relevant to individuals 

with bat ears,’ he says. ‘These patients were born with this 

problem and, in most cases, are burdened with underlying 

emotional issues relating to the appearance of their ears. 

The joy and relief they experience once their ears are 

corrected makes this treatment extremely desirable.’ csbm 

Improving form & function 

As a woman’s body experiences childbirth or as 

a result of natural ageing, the tissue surrounding 

the vagina can become weakened, resulting in a 

condition known as vaginal relaxation. This can be 

uncomfortable, and might lead to deterioration of the 

functionality of the vagina and decrease in sensations 

leading to sexual difficulties or dissatisfaction. 

One such condition is vaginal atrophy, which is 

accompanied by a set of aggravating symptoms that 

tend to worsen over time. Symptoms include vaginal 

dryness, burning sensation, vaginal discharge, genital 

itching, burning with urination, and decreased vaginal 

lubrication during sexual activity. Aphrodite laser 

vaginal rejuvenation results in a tighter, more elastic 

and rejuvenated vagina, as well as enhancing the 

aesthetic appearance of the vaginal area. 

Bladder restoration 

Stress urinary incontinence is the involuntary loss of 

urine caused by the weakened tissues supporting the 

urethra as a result of childbirth or the normal ageing 

process. It is a common and embarrassing problem 

for many women. 

Aphrodite laser vaginal rejuvenation strengthens 

the tissues supporting the bottom wall of the urethra. 

The non-surgical laser treatment is a hallmark 

procedure in the newly established field of 

cosmetogynaecology, offering a convenient walkin, 

walk-out treatment that rejuvenates the vaginal 

tissues with minimal discomfort and downtime. 

Dr Buddy Beaini and his team of medical 

practitioners will be able to advise whether Aphrodite 

is a solution for you. 


teeth 

Clinic 

snapshot 

cosmetic & 

reconstructive 

dentist 

Integrating 

dentistry 

and oral 

medicine 

According to Dr Nalbandian, 

preserving the smile and 

maintaining the patient’s existing 

teeth just might hold wider 

benefits for overall health. In 

fact, Dr Nalbandian explains 

tooth health has been linked to 

cognitive function. 

‘We are living longer than ever 

before, and dental health has 

never been so important,’ he 

says. ‘Where there is missing 

teeth, especially in edentulous 

patients, studies show the brain, 

which is neuroplastic, can adapt 

to feedback from dental implant 

integration within the patient’s 

neurophysiology.’ 

home to sydney aesthetic and reconstructive 

dentists Dr Sarkis Nalbandian, Designer 

smiles in CREMORNE has a new address and a 

revamped look. Caitlin Bishop reports. 

According to Sydney aesthetic reconstructive dentist Dr Sarkis Nalbandian, 

a dental practice should be an environment that breeds creativity and 

encourages the highest standards of performance in the surgeon, while 

also being comfortable and relaxing for the patient. ‘It needs to be a place where 

the patient can make the best decisions for themselves and their future,’ Dr 

Nalbandian explains. 

He has created exactly this environment in his new, state-of-the art clinic 

in Cremorne, Sydney. ‘The new clinic has been designed and built for the 

convenience of all our patients,’ Dr Nalbandian explains. ‘Considerable time, 

planning and effort means we can deliver the best treatments, in a relaxing 

setting, using the latest diagnostic technology, personalised treatment rooms 

and an in-house dental laboratory.’ 

‘The clinic caters to new and existing Designer Smile patients, and incorporates 

specially built accommodation for our overseas clients.’ 

Dr Nalbandian has extensive experience in dental practice. He performs both 

implant and reconstructive procedures regularly, but believes the most important 

goal of dentistry should be to preserve the patient’s existing anatomy. 

‘The longevity of actual teeth bypass immensely the longevity of dental 

implants,’ Dr Nalbandian explains. ‘Although I will place implants after careful 

assessment of all options, the preservation of biology is of upmost importance 

in my practice. In suitable cases, I will opt for procedures that require minimal 


feature teeth 

intervention to patients’ existing dental anatomy. This helps maintain the teeth 

and longevity of the smile.’ 

An extensive consultation process is key in developing the most suitable 

treatment plan for each individual patient. Whether the procedure is aesthetic 

or reconstructive, Dr Nalbandian explores several potential solutions to suit the 

patient’s individual concerns and preferences. 

‘It is important that the patient is well informed and educated when deciding 

to undergo any form of treatment,’ Dr Nalbandian explains. ‘Some patients come 

to me believing invasive intervention is the only possibility, however I help them 

understand that there may be an alternative approach, involving less downtime 

and minimal disruption to their existing biology.’ 

As well as offering reconstructive and implant surgeries in his practice, Dr 

Nalbandian also offers a service he calles the One-Visit Dental Facelift. This 

specifically focuses on the speech area and aesthetic zone of the mouth. It calls 

upon either ultra-thin porcelain veneers or composite veneers, which require 

no injections, no drilling and no downtime. Both these procedures have been 

developed and optimised at Designer Smiles, and are a solution for minimal 

intervention in smile rejuvenation, suitable for patients of all ages. Importantly, 

they also afford flexible options for future revision, as Dr Nalbandian explains. 

‘There are many ways we can use non-invasive methods to improve a 

patient’s smile, restoring their confidence and allowing them to continue with their 

lives after just one visit,’ Dr Nalbandian explains. ‘‘The beauty of using composite 

veneers is that we can improve the patient’s smile while still keeping their options 

open for future orthodontic realignment,’ 

‘I preserve and enhance the patient’s smile wherever I can. My aim is to help 

my patients keep their smile for life,’ Dr Nalbandian concludes. csbm 


feature 

SKIN 

SOS 

IS YOUR SKIN CRYING 

OUT FOR HELP? WE 

RUN THROUGH THE 

CAUSES, SYMPTOMS AND 

TREATMENTS OF SOME OF 

THE MOST COMMON SKIN 

COMPLAINTS – FROM A TO Z. 

CAITLIN BISHOP REPORTS. 


feature 

It’s easy to tell when your skin sends out an SOS. Your 

once-clear complexion may have erupted in a seemingly 

unstoppable outbreak of acne, it may appear red and 

flushed, or dry and cracked. Too long spent in the sun may 

have fast tracked your path to fine lines and wrinkles, and 

pigmentation may be starting to rear its head. Here, we 

get to know some of the most common skin concerns, 

investigating the causes, symptoms and cures. 

Ais for Acne 

Thought to affect up to 80 percent of girls aged 

15 to 16 and 95 percent of boys aged 17 to 

18, acne vulgaris is the bacterial infection of the 

pilosebaceous unit, or the hair follicle and its 

adjacent sebaceous glands. And its not just adolescents 

who are affected by the dreaded outbreaks; it affects adults 

too, with women far more likely than men to continue to 

suffer acne into adulthood. 

Acne develops within the skin’s pores. Fine hairs grow 

through these pores, alongside sebaceous glands that 

produce oil to lubricate the hair and protect the skin. In 

response to a number of factors, most predominantly the 

rise of testosterone levels in both males and females during 

puberty, these sebaceous glands can begin to secrete 

excessive oil, termed sebum. This oil, combined with a 

build up of dead skin cells, can plug the pore, creating an 

optimum breeding ground for bacteria. As hypercolonisation 

of bacteria occurs, so too does the formation of a pusstrapped, 

inflamed pimple. Blackheads, whiteheads, 

pustules and cysts are all forms of acne and can ultimately 

lead to scarring, not to mention affecting self-confidence. 

From toothpaste cleansers to oatmeal paste masks, it 

seems every remedy type has been tried and tested in a bid 

to clear the spots of acne. Mild acne can usually be treated 

with regular skin cleansing, topical moisturisers and dietary 

adjustments. Moisturisers rich in active ingredients will 

strengthen the skin’s protective oil/water layer and improve 

the integrity of its structure, making it more resistant to 

infection and more efficient in shedding dead skin cells. 

In more severe cases, medical grade treatment is often 

required. Prescription ointments can reduce levels of the 

Propionibacterium acne, the bacteria responsible for 

most acne infections, while antibiotics can fight the same 

bacteria or reduce testosterone hormone levels in the 

body. However, these treatments dehydrate the skin and 

can cause redness, irritation and sensitivity to sunlight. 

Laser therapy, chemical peels, microdermabrasion and 

light induction therapy can also be effective in reducing the 

appearance of acne and acne scarring. 

Dis for dehydration 

As much as 60 percent of the body 

is comprised of water and, with the 

skin its largest organ, it makes sense 

you need to keep your skin hydrated. 

Tired, aged, wrinkled and pimpled skin are all signs 

of dermal dehydration, where enzyme activity is 

impaired and skin health has deteriorated. Quite 

simply, to regain and retain hydration, the skin’s oil 

barrier, known as the acid mantle, must be restored. 

The acid mantle – the outermost layer of the 

epidermis – is secreted by the sebaceous glands 

to keep water and nutrients circulating between 

skin cells in the epidermis, preventing water loss 

and protecting against pathogens. When the acid 

mantle is depleted, ‘transepidermal water loss’ 

occurs and enzyme activity, which is dependent on 

water and responsible for the correct functioning of 

skin cells, is compromised. 

Water intake, humidity, lymphatics and essential 

fatty acids can influence dehydration and enzyme 

activity. Increasing the amount of water consumed, 

upping your exercise regime and supplementing 

your diet with omega oils can boost the amount of 

water reaching the epidermis through the dermalepidermal 

junction and maintain hydration within the 

skin. These changes, complemented with a diligent 

skincare regime, can restore enzyme activity and 

reduce the premature signs of ageing associated 

with dehydration. A home-care range for dry skin 

should incorporate hyaluronic acid to attract water, 

antioxidants to regenerate and repair, and vitamin A 

to stimulate the dermis and normalise cell function. 


feature 

EIS FOR ECZEMA 

A form of dermatitis, eczema is the infl ammation of the skin’s outer 

layer, resulting in rashes that can exhibit dryness, redness, swelling, 

crusting and fl aking. These symptoms can cause itchiness, oozing 

infection and bleeding, which sometimes leads to scarring. 

With no known cause, some researchers speculate limited exposure to 

environmental pathogens as a child can lead to a heightened susceptibility 

to eczema. Authors of a 2005 study into the so-called hygiene hypothesis 

Flohr, Pascoe and Williams urge caution in prescribing antibiotics to children, 

particularly those with a family history of atopic dermatitis, or eczema. Others 

speculate eczema may be triggered by an allergic reaction after exposure to 

proteins in meat or vegetables, whilst some researchers speculate eczema 

may be linked to dust mites and celiac disease. 

With no single causal factor, eczema cannot be ‘cured’ but the skin 

irritations can be managed. Once again an array of home remedies have been 

put forward to reduce infl ammation, and certainly modifying your diet and 

exposure to certain irritants can go lengths in achieving relief from eczema 

symptoms. 

A study by Hoare, Li Wan Po and Williams found the use of 

immunosuppressant medication, corticosteroid creams (using chemicals 

that resemble steroid hormones produced in the body) and ultraviolet light 

therapy were most effective in eczema treatment. 

GIS FOR GLYCATION 

If you indulge in sugary delights, you’re 

probably fully aware of the havoc it will reap on 

your hips and waistline, yet as sugar bombards 

your system your skin can suffer too. Glycation 

presents itself as aged skin, leading to cross-hatched 

wrinkles on the chin and around the eyes. It is caused by the 

bonding of sugar molecules onto protein or lipid molecules 

without the controlling action of an enzyme. The end result 

is an abundance of ‘advanced glycation end products’, or 

AGEs, which stiffen and weaken the collagen and elastin in 

our skin. When this happens, the elasticity, plumpness and 

youthfulness of skin deteriorate, and the telltale fi ne lines 

start to appear. 

To a certain extent, glycation is inevitable, as AGEs will 

exist in even the cleanest of diets. To slow the process, you 

can avoid foods that include pre-formed AGEs, caused by 

cooking sugar alongside protein or fat. ‘Browned’ products 

like chips and baked goods achieve their colour through 

dietary glycations, while soft drinks and caramelised 

treats also contain the pre-formed toxins. To help ward 

off glycation’s effect on the skin, many cosmetic skincare 

ranges include antiglycation agents. Retinoids promote 

new collagen formation to eradicate the damage caused 

by sugar, and pharmaceutical companies are working on 

products to break the AGE cross-links after they’re formed. 


feature 

pis for Pigmentation 

Hyperpigmentation, or the darkening of 

the skin in localised areas such as the 

cheeks, forehead and around the eyes, 

can be triggered by several factors 

and can spoil an otherwise clear complexion. The 

appearance of dark, often brown spots is caused 

by the overproduction of melanin by melanocytes 

in the basal layer of the epidermis. This can occur 

in response to hormonal changes, pregnancy, 

inflammation and sun damage. 

The most avoidable form of pigmentation, 

particularly common in Australia, is caused by sun 

exposure, when melanin is produced to protect skin 

cells from harmful UV rays. Acting like an umbrella, 

melanocytes release pigment into the skin cells to 

surround and protect the cell’s nucleus. This causes 

skin darkening and concentrated spots of melanin, 

often termed ‘sun spots’. 

Certain products such as perfumes, soaps or 

cosmetics contain ‘phototoxic’ ingredients, which 

induce a sensitised reaction to sun exposure can 

also trigger excessive melanin secretion. 

Presenting in a more ordered, symmetrical 

pattern, hormonal melasma is caused by 

overstimulation of melanocytes in response to 

increased levels of oestrogen and progesterone. 

Most common in women, hormonal melasma 

can arise after pregnancy, in women with a 

history of taking the oral contraceptive pill or in 

those undergoing hormonal therapy. Finally, postinflammatory 

pigmentation occurs as a result of 

injury to the epidermal/dermal junction. This can 

appear in skin conditions like eczema, acne or 

chronic dermatitis, or in some cases after harsh 

cosmetic treatments. 

Pigmentation of all forms can lie unnoticed in 

the lower layers of the epidermis for years before 

appearing on the face. Because of this, and the fact 

it is so sensitive to inflammation, treating visible signs 

of pigmentation can be difficult with no guarantee of 

complete eradication. 

Regardless of the cause, all pigmentation is 

treated with a similar approach. Topical treatments 

are the first step, with a skincare range incorporating 

vitamin A to normalise cell function, vitamin C to 

protect DNA and niacinamide (the active form of 

vitamin B) to inhibit the synthesis of melanin and 

lighten existing pigmentation. This treatment can 

be combined with collagen induction therapy (skin 

needling), light-emitting diode (LED) therapy and 

chemical peels. It is best to work with a dermatologist 

when fighting the appearance of pigmentation, as it 

is often a long process involving multiple aspects. 

ris for rosacea 

Evident as redness, pimples, flushing and 

pustules, rosacea is a vascular disorder that 

can arise in the centre plane of the face, across 

the cheeks, neck, chest and around the eyes. 

A flushed appearance occurs on account of mildly inflamed 

superficial vasculature, and the redness can be dotted 

with small bumps called papules or, in more severe cases, 

inflamed pustules. 

Rosacea symptoms can flare up in response to various 

triggers, including sun exposure, heat, alcohol, spicy foods 

and certain cosmetics. Treatment for rosacea will usually 

begin with a patient journal to identify the triggers most 

troublesome to the individual so that lifestyle adjustments 

can be made to avoid these irritants. 

Skincare with anti-inflammatory ingredients can be 

effective in combating the appearance of rosacea, with aloe 

vera, provitamin B5, green tea, red algae, and zinc just some 

of the ingredients shown to sooth skin irritation. Salicylic 

acid can help with rosacea, and retinaldehyde, the milder 

version of retinoid, is usually appropriate to promote skin 

integrity in rosacea patients, though progressive adoption is 

recommended. Alongside topical treatments, oral antibiotics 

can be used to reduce inflammation and eradicate the 

papules and pustules that can sometimes arise. 

Though steroid treatment will succeed in promoting 

short-term relief of rosacea symptoms, it will usually 

increase capillary formation and result in amplified redness 

and flushing in the long term. While some cosmetic 

treatments like chemical peels and microdermabrasion will 

inflame rosacea symptoms, other procedures like vascular 

laser therapy or intense pulsed light (IPL) treatment can 

successfully relieve redness and flushing. By targeting 

the capillaries in the dermis, these treatments use light to 

destroy the tiny blood vessels and reduce flushing. csbm 


skin 

RADIOFREQUENCY 

FOR SKIN 

REJUVENATION 

FRACTORA, DISTRIBUTED BY HIGH TECH LASER, IS DESIGNED TO 

IMPROVE THE TONE, TEXTURE AND APPEARANCE OF AGEING SKIN 

USING RADIOFREQUENCY TECHNOLOGY. CAITLIN BISHOP REPORTS. 

Fractora, distributed in Australia by High Tech 

Laser, is a radiofrequency treatment designed 

to improve skin tone, homogenise skin texture 

and reduce the appearance of deep wrinkles and 

fi ne lines, without the need for surgery. 

The device is designed to heat the skin and 

remodel deep collagen. This works to improve the 

integrity of the skin’s support structure, helping to 

reverse and prevent the signs of ageing. 

The versatility of the Fractora device means it 

is suitable for most patients, and to treat a wide 

variety of skin concerns. Fractora can be used 

as a fractional skin resurfacing treatment, or as a 

minimally invasive rejuvenating treatment. 


skin 

‘Fractora has two broad applications: there is an externally applied handpiece 

that delivers radiofrequency energy as it glides over the skin; and there is also a 

fractional handpiece, which delivers radiofrequency technology through microneedles 

that pierce the skin,’ explains Queensland cosmetic doctor Dr John 

Flynn. ‘Both systems can be used to treat the entire face.’ 

FRACTIONAL APPROACH 

By delivering radiofrequency energy through microneedles, Fractora creates 

spots of coagulation (tissue tightening) in the sub-dermal tissue. This triggers the 

skin’s wound healing response, promoting collagen production and improving 

the appearance of the skin’s surface. 

‘The fractional approach is very effective in reducing the appearance of heavy 

lines around the mouth,’ Dr Flynn explains. ‘It can also be used in the peri-orbital 

area (around the eyes), however this calls for a more cautious approach due to 

the thinner and more sensitive skin in this area.’ 

The Fractora system is highly customisable and the depth of RF energy 

delivery can be adjusted according to individual patient concerns and certain 

skin conditions. 

‘The Fractora fractional system is most suitable to patients who have a high 

degree of sun damage, and are concerned about the appearance of wrinkles,’ 

Dr Flynn adds. 

There is some downtime associated with the fractional system. Patients should 

expect to have swelling and redness for a few days following the procedure. 

The physics of the Fractora fractional system 

The nature of radiofrequency delivery means energy is released from one 

needlepoint and will connect with another needlepoint at a certain distance within 

the skin. This increases the area of coagulation and delivers a more universal, 

holistic result. 

In short, Fractora heats the skin using a controlled pattern of radiofrequency 

delivery. This helps remodel deep collagen and improve the surface appearance 

of the skin. 

SKIN REJUVENATION 

For those patients not ready to commit to the few days’ downtime of fractional 

Fractora, the benefi ts of radiofrequency alone can still be achieved using the 

external delivery system. 

‘There is minimal downtime associated with this system – patients might 

experience some mild redness following the procedure,’ Dr Flynn explains. ‘It is 

used in skin rejuvenation to improve tone, texture and fi rmness.’ 

Because Fractora helps boost skin quality, it can be used before and after 

surgical procedures to reduce healing time and help augment results. 

‘I often use Fractora before and after certain procedures, and two to three 

treatments can be performed to improve skin conditioning before the fractional 

treatment,’ he adds. 

Fractora is an effective device that can be customised for different patients 

and various concerns. Treatment with Fractora can help improve the appearance 

of ageing skin by reducing fi ne lines, deep lines, textural irregularities, blood 

vessels and redness, leaving skin tighter, clearer and more resilient to future 

ageing. csbm 


skin 

Smooth 

& tighten 

your skin 

Infini is a nonsurgical 

skin 

tightening and 

refining treatment, 

used to improve skin 

tone and texture, 

counter skin laxity 

an refine facial 

contours. tara 

casey reports. 

The team of aesthetic experts at Skin Renu in Balmain, Sydney has a new 

addition to their anti-ageing arsenal. Staff and patients alike are blown away 

by the results they’re seeing with the Infini non-surgical skin tightening and 

refining treatment. 

Infini is a new technology used to reduce the appearance of wrinkles, counter 

facial and neck skin laxity, improve acne scarring, treat enlarged pores and 

rejuvenate the overall complexion. 

The treatment combines the benefits of radiofrequency (RF) energy and 

microneedling to stimulate collagen production, contracting, tightening and 

smoothening the skin gradually over the subsequent weeks. 

Treatment with Infini helps achieve a firmer, stronger and more youthful 

complexion – indeed, it’s being heralded by many practitioners as a bridge 

between non-surgical and surgical procedures due to the results it can achieve. 

Infini is unique in that it addresses both the superficial and deeper layers of 

the skin. It delivers radiofrequency energy deep into the dermis using 

microneedles, termed microneedling fractional radiofrequency (MFR), and also 

The Infini experience 

Sylvia, a member of the Skin Renu team, has personally undergone treatment with Infini. ‘I wasn’t expecting any 

change so soon, as I know Infini works by stimulating your body’s own collagen, which takes a while to kick in, and 

yet after only one week after the treatment, I started noticing a difference in my skin.’ 

‘I love wearing foundation, but since my treatment I haven’t needed it as my skin looks even and has a real 

radiance to it all on its own. I’m really happy with the results – all this with really minimal downtime as the mild redness 

is easily covered with regular makeup,’ she adds. 

Patients at Skin Renu are equally impressed: ‘When my friends and family commented on how nice my skin 

looked, I knew my Infini treatments were giving the results promised. I haven’t heard anything like that in the past 10 

years! It made me feel so good,’ said one recent patient. 


skin 

superfi cially, via superfi cial factional radiofrequency (SFR). This three-dimensional 

approach helps reinforce the skin’s structure, leading to a fi rmer and more 

youthful complexion. 

Superficial and deep skin rejuvenation 

Gold-coated microneedles deliver RF energy into the dermis during Infi ni 

treatment. This causes controlled areas of coagulation, or tissue shrinkage, and 

triggers the body’s natural healing response, promoting collagen production 

without damaging the skin’s superfi cial layers. 

Importantly, the microneedles can be adjusted to target different depths, 

affording a comprehensive and tailored treatment protocol. The use of 

microneedles further stimulates collagen production in the dermis, improving 

skin tone, structure and texture. 

Alongside MFR, the SFR technology delivers thermal energy via two channels 

to penetrate both the epidermis and the dermis. The unique dual channels of 

SFR noninvasively deliver RF energy to the epidermis and superfi cial dermis. 

This has a synergistic effect, resulting in luminous skin and controlled tightening. 

This unique amalgamation of technologies causes a comprehensive and 

three-dimensional change in the skin. Typically, new collagen fi bres begin to form 

four weeks after treatment, with results showing within 10 weeks. 

The treatment itself usually takes around 40 minutes to complete, with the 

starting energy level and needle depth selected according to the patient’s skin 

condition. Levels are usually adjusted with each pass of the handpiece to the 

face. csbm

skin 

Revive 

your 

skin with 

Indermica 

Introducing Indermica, 

the new cutting-edge 

skincare for radiant results 

in skin repair, without 

any of the nasties. caitlin 

bishop reports. 

The modern-day skincare patient is highly 

discerning, not only about the ingredients they 

want included in skincare products but also 

about those ingredients they don’t want anywhere 

near their skincare regime. 

Recently, there has been a growing demand 

for paraben-free and non-hydroquinone-based 

products. 

Parabens are preservatives widely used in 

cosmetic and pharmaceutical products. Some 

health advisers claim parabens are associated with 

hormonal imbalances, certain cancers and increased 

UVB damage. Hydroquinone is a compound used 

in skin-lightening skincare, as it has been shown 

to inhibit melanin production in the skin. Excessive 


skin 

use of hydroquinone can result in 

Ochronosis, a condition of blueblack 

pigmentation on the skin and, 

according to some sources, can act 

as a carcinogenic. 

While there is little clinical 

evidence linking parabens and 

hydroquinone to cancers, the 

growing consumer awareness has 

triggered a revolution in the way 

skincare is fo rmulated. 

Indermica is a hyroquinone- and 

paraben-free skincare solution. The 

range has only recently landed on 

Australian shores and is distributed 

by Advanced Cosmeceuticals. 

The premier anti-ageing regimen 

combines performance-based 

compounds that are methodically 

layered within each formula to 

deliver real results, without the 

possible irritations or health risks 

potentially associated with parabens 

and hydroquinone ingredients. 

OXYGENATE & 

HYDRATE 

Oxygenation is at the heart of the 

Indermica range. Suffi cient levels of 

oxygen and nutrients are essential 

to maintain the healthy rate and 

results of cell reproduction. 

If oxygen and nutrient levels are 

depleted in the skin, the new skin 

cells are not as healthy, resulting 

in premature ageing and the 

manifestation of fi ne lines, wrinkles 

and a dull or sallow complexion. 

The Indermica line uses 

oxygenating compounds that help 

disperse carbon dioxide (CO 2 

) from 

the skin, aiding to scavenge free 

radicals and revive the complexion. 

These compounds exhibit a heavy 

molecular weight and density, 

which is necessary to act upon the 

dermal cavity and help decrease 

wrinkle formation. 

Indermica uses compounds 

called perfl uorocarbons inside 

an oil and aqueous emulsion to 

trigger oxygenation deep within 

the skin. These are artifi cial oxygen 

carriers shown to improve tissue 

oxygenation. They allow the skin to 

breathe to optimum levels and helps 

increase its capacity to self-regulate in 

polluted environments. By cleansing 

the skin of toxins and carbon dioxide, 

perfl uorocarbons enrich the skin 

without disrupting the pH barrier. 

‘Skin normally renews itself around 

every 28 days. However, if oxygen 

and nutrients are diminished, the 

cell reproduction process is slowed 

down, and the new skin cells are 

not as healthy, resulting in premature 

ageing and the manifestation of fi ne 

lines, wrinkles and a dull or sallow 

complexion,’ states a report called 

Perfl uorodecalin – a new advancement 

in skin oxygenation. 

‘Perfl uorocarbons allow the 

skin to breathe to optimum levels 

and to self-regulate better in 

polluted environments. It is an ideal 

detoxifi cation agent, as it cleans the 

skin of carbon dioxide and enriches 

the oxygen levels of the skin.’ 

All Indermica products are based 

on Aloe Vera, which acts as a carrying 

agent for ingredients to enhance 

dermal absorption. 

A chemist on the board of 

Indermica Inc owns an Aloe Vera 

farm, and there are more than 

200 nutritional substances in Aloe 

Barbadensis leaves, including 20 

minerals, 20 amino acids, 12 vitamins 

and countless active enzymes. csbm 

BEFORE 

BEFORE 

Indermica treatment 

The Indermica approach encompasses 

both in-salon treatments and takehome 

products for long-lasting, antiageing 

results. 

The Indermica Pro Infusion Facial is 

often used before beginning the takehome 

regimen. The patent-pending 

massage infusion technique delivers 

powerful topical ingredients deep into 

the skin for maximum results. Results 

are evident immediately following 

treatment, and a brighter, healthier, 

more youthful skin tone can be 

achieved after just one treatment. 

The professional treatment helps 

kick start the skin’s natural processes 

at a cellular level. This primes the skin 

to receive The Indermica Take-Home 

System – or the regimen of anti-ageing 

skincare products. 

One of the range’s hero products, 

Oxyderm Wrinkle Cream is a fastacting, 

anti-ageing treatment 

specifi cally designed to reduce fi ne 

lines and wrinkles. It is composed with 

multiple oxygenating, relaxing, fi rming 

and hydrating agents to help refresh 

and smooth the complexion. 

In its entity, the Indermica system 

represents an innovative pathway to 

healthy skin. According to Indermica, 

your skin will look visibly younger, 

more uniform and luminous in as little 

as eight weeks of skincare use. 

AFTER 18 months following Indermica treatment 

AFTER 28 days following Indermica treatment 


skin 

Harnessing 

the power of 

‘Clean Science’ 

in cosmeceutical 

formulations 

Terri Vinson, cosmetic 

chemist and owner of 

Synergie Skin, TAlks 

clean science and 

efficacious skincare. 

As a scientist, I am aware of the power 

of laboratory-created ingredients and 

the positive impact they can have on 

skin. There are also many natural product 

ranges on the market that are extremely 

nurturing, but they may not create the same 

level of biological impact. 

The secret to formulating, in my opinion, 

is to harness the very best of laboratory 

science with naturally derived ingredients 

in synergy to create the most effective 

products that create perceivable change. 

They should penetrate the skin for optimal 

delivery and be cosmetically elegant to use 

for the consumer. 

As a formulator, it is often as important 

what I don’t include in the product as what 

I do include. I have my own list of what I 

refer to as ‘questionable ingredients’. These 

are chemical additives that I believe can be 

harmful to cells when allowed to accumulate 

over time. A compelling scientific study 

showed that women absorb more than 3kg 

of chemicals from cosmetics and toiletries 

each year. 

The secret to 

formulating is to harness 

the very best of 

laboratory science with 

naturally derived 

ingredients to create the 

most effective products 


skin 

As a brief overview, I advise 

customers to avoid the 

following ingredients on 

their cosmetic products: 

1. Paraben preservatives 

2. Artificial colour 

(FD&C dyes) 

3. Artificial fragrance 

4. Phthalates 

5. SLS and other 

foaming sulfates 

6. PEG 

7. Propylene glycol 

8. Isopropyl alcohol 

Unfortunately, the terms ‘natural’ and organic’ are used too loosely in the 

cosmetic industry. Natural is not always best, and it is important to understand 

that natural ingredients can be extremely harmful. Arsenic, for example, is 100 

percent natural but less than 1/8th of a teaspoon can be fatal, and the beautiful 

oleander shrub can be organically grown but may result in cardiac arrest if the 

leaves or flowers are ingested! 

Many laboratory-made ingredients used in skincare products are a bioidentical 

copy to the natural form. However, the laboratory synthesised 

form can be 100 percent pure and free of contaminants or pesticides as it is 

manufactured under sterile conditions. A good example of this is the ingredient 

Phycosaccharide, which is an active ingredient that promotes skin repair and 

reduced inflammation. This complex sugar is copied in the laboratory to avoid 

depleting the coast of seaweed reserves where this ingredient exists in nature. 

In this case, the synthetic ingredient is effective, identical to nature, pure and 

environmentally sustainable. 

Decisions based on natural versus synthetic are personal. As a clean science 

formulator, I consider two factors: 

1. The overall safety profile of the ingredient. Both natural (arsenic) 

and synthetic (parabens, PEG, artificial colour) ingredients can be 

questionable and even toxic. Thoroughly read scientific evidence based 

on the individual ingredient. 

2. The benefit and effectiveness of the ingredient. If a particular ingredient 

is a laboratory-made synthetic (eg, peptides to minimise the appearance 

of wrinkles) and does not present as a questionable or potentially toxic 

ingredient then it is, in my opinion, a perfectly valid addition to a product. 

Natural is not always best. Clean science formulating uses the very best of 

both science and nature in synergy. Harnessing the positive attributes from both 

will result in a product that produces the best results with the highest safety 

profile. csbm 


skin 

Your go-to 

brand for 

MINERAL 

MAKEUP 

JANE IREDALE MINERAL 

MAKEUP HAS STOOD 

THE TEST OF TIME – 20 

YEARS TO BE PRECISE 

– IT IS RECOMMENDED 

BY DERMATOLOGISTS, 

PLASTIC SURGEONS AND 

SKIN THERAPISTS ACROSS 

THE GLOBE. CAITLIN 

BISHOP REPORTS. 

Recently, there’s been a shift in 

the cosmetic industry towards 

heightened effectiveness and 

increased protection in beauty 

products. More and more cosmetic 

brands are incorporating skincare 

ingredients into makeup, but this is 

not a new phenomenon. For 20 

years, jane iredale has pioneered the 

inclusion of soothing and protective 

ingredients, such as pharmaceuticalgrade 

vitamins and antioxidants, into 

mineral makeup. jane iredale has 

become the go-to mineral makeup 

brand, trusted by dermatologists, 

plastic surgeons and skin therapists all 

across the world. 

Combining beauty with skin health 

is the keystone of the jane iredale 

range. This is achieved in a formulation 

of quality cosmeceutical ingredients 

and pure miconised minerals. Take 

their foundations, for example. They 

all include sooting ingredients that 

contribute and optimise skin health. 

jane iredale foundations also allow the 

skin to breathe and function normally, 

and all vitamins and antioxidants used 

are pharmaceutical-grade and certifi ed 

organic where possible. 

MUTLI-TASKING PRODUCTS 

jane iredale mineral foundations are 

essentially four products in one. 

Amazing Base, PurePressed Base, 

Glow Time and Dream Tint foundations 

act as active skincare, while also 

providing foundation coverage, 

concealer precision and sun protection. 


skin 

Flawless finishes 

High-quality minerals are designed 

to interact with light, a concept that 

causes their celebrated, soft-focus 

effect. The jane iredale makeup line 

encompasses a variety of foundations 

that provide the full spectrum of finishes 

– from sheer to full, and luminescent 

to velvety. 

jane iredale makeup uses pure 

mineral pigment, without the nasties. 

There are no “fillers” such as talc 

included in any jane iredale formulation. 

This means the range of foundations 

and concealers provides exceptional 

coverage and calls for minimal 

touch-ups. 

Adherence 

The mineral pigments used in jane 

iredale makeup bind together upon 

application so they resist running, 

creasing and smearing. They can be 

removed with cleanser, or a special 

micro-fiber cloth from jane iredale 

(Magic Mitt), which requires only water 

for effective cleansing. csbm 

Quality testing 

Each jane iredale product undergoes specific testing – not because it’s 

required but because the company believes in offering the consumer the 

highest quality product line possible. 

SUNSCREEN TESTING – jane 

iredale conducts extensive testing of 

its sunscreen products to determine 

their efficacy in terms of UVA and 

UVB protection in compliance 

with both US FDA (Food and Drug 

Administration) and international 

requirements and testing 

methodologies. 

INGREDIENT TESTING – This is 

an in vitro test conducted with light 

rays to determine the percentage of 

active ingredients. It is required by 

some countries in order to register 

products claiming an SPF. The light 

rays measure the absorption and 

reflection of light in order to confirm 

the percentage of actives, in this 

case titanium dioxide and zinc oxide. 

STABILITY TESTING – This 

measures shelf life. The product 

can be tested in real time, provided 

the product has been in the line 

long enough, or it can be measured 

through an incubation process. 

This subjects the product to intense 

heat and cold for a period of one 

month. This acceleration is equal 

to one year. 

the jane iredale products. The brand 

can legitimately claim the products 

are: Dermatologist Tested. Soothing. 

Safety Tested. Allergy Tested. 

Clinically Tested. Hypoallergenic. 

PRESERVATIVE TESTING – 

This test proves the efficacy of 

the preservative system. This is 

particularly important to the jane 

iredale brand, as they insist on 

using systems that don’t rely on 

parabens and phenoxyethanol but 

rely on more natural methods. In a 

laboratory, bacteria, yeast and mould 

were introduced into the product. 

Staphylococcus epidermidis, 

Pseudomoas aeruginosa and 

Escerichia coli (E. coli) were 

introduced a second and third 

time after allowing seven days of 

incubation. The test allows the 

evaluation of the real capacity of 

the preservative system of not only 

preventing microbial contamination 

but of also reducing it to a level that 

is safe for human health. In other 

words, the preservative system has 

to be able to kill the organisms. 

When the test was finished (21 days) 

no microbial activity was detectible. 

SENSITIVITY TESTING – A 

sensitivity test is conducted on 50 

people per product. This is a twophase 

test, which tests irritancy and 

sensitivity. During the first phase, the 

test is repeated three times on the 

same subject within a week. There is 

a ten to fourteen day break and then 

the subject is patch-tested for three 

consecutive days. There is a 24-hour 

evaluation and 48-hour evaluation. 

No sensitivity was recorded to any of 

COMEDOGENICITY TESTING 

– jane iredale conducts 

comedogenicity tests on all 

products. All products exhibit no 

comedogenicity. 

HEAVY METALS TESTING – A 

heavy metal test is performed on all 

jane iredale products. There is no 

measurable amount of heavy 

metals in any product including lead 

and nickel. 


cosmetic tattooing 

the 

holistic 

approach to 

beauty 

Rita Porreca of Sydney Permanent Makeup Centre celebrates 25 years 

delivering successful and individualised results to her aesthetic 

patients. Caitlin Bishop reports. 

Rita Porreca 

It’s been 25 years in the industry for cosmetic tattoo artist 

Rita Porreca of Sydney Permanent Makeup Centre. And her 

anniversary is marked by the success of her newest venture 

– Cosmedic Professionals, in Five Dock, Sydney. 

Cosmedic Professionals is a venture born from Porreca’s 

belief in the value of combining complementary treatments – 

beauty treatments, medical procedures and alternative health 

therapies. By aligning inner health with outer beauty, Cosmedic 

Professionals offers patients a holistic approach to lasting 

cosmetic results. 

‘Self-confidence comes from how we feel inside and 

permeates outwards,’ Porreca explains. ‘Since I started Sydney 

Permanent Makeup Centre, I’ve had a dream to create a centre 

that provides personalised natural beauty and lasting cosmetic 

results. This is where alternative therapies and cosmetic 

treatments meet.’ 

The new clinic is built on the philosophy of enhancing the 

outward reflection of inner beauty. Cosmedic Professionals 

aims to bridge the gap between medical, cosmetic and 

alternative therapies. Offering several services including 

microdermabrasion, dermal peels and anti-wrinkle treatments, 

Cosmedic Professionals is a specialised team committed to 


feature 

SPMUC FP(NEW) 30/4/07 1:30 PM Page 1 

timeless and 

delivering personalised beauty and wellness treatments. 

timeless 

The team hails from the Sydney Permanent 

and 

Makeup Centre 

and Skinial (tattoo removal). 

‘Cosmedic Professionals is a unique venture where effortless beauty 

clients can find answers to a variety of concerns,’ Porreca 

says. ‘Detoxing with our infrared sauna, and assisting 

SPMUC with FP(NEW) weight 30/4/07 loss methods 1:30 will PM address Page 1health and lifestyle ‘In When 1984 it my comes dream to eyes, was to lips, create face, a 

concerns. When these measures are partnered with skin Centre body, skin that and provided training, personalised we are the 

peels and light therapies for skin rejuvenation, a holistic, beauty experts’ solutions expert. With with more natural than and 24 

effective and long-term change in the skin and body can lasting years’ experience results – a world we have above developed 

be achieved.’ 

traditional 

an excellent 

beauty 

reputation 

salons.’ 

with doctors 

First-time visitors to Cosmedic Professionals will – and Rita surgeons. Porreca, We Founder also work & MDclosely 

timeless and effortless 

undergo a consultation with one of their beauty experts to with surgeons in post-operative 

beauty 

care. 

explore which procedures might help address the patient’s When it comes to Eyes, Lips, Face, Body, Skin and 

– Rita Porreca, Founder & MD 

main aesthetic concerns. The consultation process will Training we are the experts' expert. We also work closely 

SPCP, AAM, AACT, APAA 

also delve into various lifestyle changes to help improve the with surgeons on post-operative care. 

quality and longevity of aesthetic procedures. 

‘We do not believe in exterior appearances alone,’ ‘In 1984 my dream was to create a 

SERVICES WE PROVIDE 

Porreca explains. ‘Our services focus on your overall health Centre that provided personalised 

and SERVICES wellbeing, WE for PROVIDE we strongly believe that true beauty is 

beauty solutions Cosmetic with natural Tattooing 


lasting results – a world above 

deeply Cosmetic rooted Tattooing 

inner confidence and wellbeing.’ 

traditional beauty Medical salons.’ Tattooing 

Eyebrows Cosmedic Hair Professionals stroke to shaded offers a one-stop brows to shop give where you more of a 

patients natural appearance 

can find potential solutions to a wide range of 

– Rita Porreca, Founder Skin & Needling 

MD 

cosmetic Eyeliner and Subtle beauty to Dramatic requirements. or to define ‘By optimising your eye inner shape 

Dermal BEFORE Planning Peels 

health, and using a holistic and multimodal treatment When it comes 

Lips From lip liner to full lips & blends we make your lips look good with Non to Laser Eyes, Lips, Tattoo Face, Removal 

Body, Skin and 

regime, 

an ideal 

we 

shape 

will bring 

and colour 

out the 

all 

beautiful 

the time. 

in all our clients,’ Training we are the experts' expert. We also work closely 

Porreca concludes. csbm 

with surgeons Cosmetic on post-operative Tattooing care. Courses 

Medical Tattooing 

Areola re-pigmentation Is the final stage of breast reconstruction and is AFTER FULL LIP TATTOOING 

also considered by those with areola colour loss. 

SERVICES WE PROVIDE 

Corrective Services Camouflage include: Can bring a natural skin colour back to scars 

Cosmetic and burns Tattooing 

Eyebrows Detoxing Hair – infrared stroke to sauna shaded brows to give you more of a BEFORE FULL LIP COLOUR 

AFTER FULL LIP COSMETIC TATTOOING 

natural Skin Needling appearance 

Needling Microdermabrasion 

treatment for wrinkles, acne scars & scar relaxation 

BEFORE 

Eyeliner Subtle to Dramatic or to define your eye shape 

BEFORE 

Lips Skin From 

Removal 

Rejuvenation lip liner to full lips & blends we make your lips look good with 

of skin irregularities – Cryo probe 

an Is ideal for shape the rebuilding and colour of all new the collagen time. and lightening pigmentation. 

BEFORE EYE LINER TOP AND BOTTOM 

AFTER EYE LINER TOP AND BOTTOM 

Medical IPL 

Non-laser 

Hair Tattooing Removal 

tattoo removal 

Areola Enables re-pigmentation hair removal from Is nearly the final every stage part of of breast the body reconstruction quickly and is AFTER FULL LIP TATTOOING 

Medical skin treatments 

AFTER EYEBROW TATTOOING 

also and efficiently considered by those with areola colour loss. 

Corrective 

Medical Skin needling 

Camouflage Can bring a natural skin colour back to scars 

Skin Peels/Microdermabrasion 

and burns 

BEFORE EYEBROW TATTOOING 

AFTER EYEBROW TATTOOING 

Skin treatments ranging from Green Peel, CosMedix Peels 

& Microdermabrasion High-grade skin peels 

Skin Needling to give you a natural healthy glow. 

Needling treatment for wrinkles, acne scars & scar relaxation 

Cosmetic Injectable Dermal anti-wrinkle Fillers treatments & Mesotherapy 

02 9712 4133 

BEFORE 

follow us on 

Skin Bella Building, Shop 4/239 

Cosmetic Rejuvenation Tattooing Courses 

Is Cosmetic and medical tattooing 

Learn, ideal up-skill for the and rebuilding expand of with new professional collagen and cosmetic lightening tattooing pigmentation. Great 

training. 

North Rd, Five Dock 

AFTER AEROLA TATTOOING 

located in Cosmedic Professionals 

IPL Hair Removal 

Email: info@spmuc.com.au 

Enables hair removal from nearly every part of the body quickly Web: www.spmuc.com.au 

and efficiently 

www.cosbeauty.com.au AFTER EYEBROW TATTOOING 

79

cosmetic tattooing 

Raising the bar 

in cosmetic tattooing 

Val Glover-Hovan remains AT the helm of 

cosmetic TATTooing in Australia. She explains 

trEATMEnt can restore lost definition and colour 

in the lips and brows. Tara Casey reports. 

Val Glover-Hovan has been a name in the beauty 

industry for some 35 years and has pioneered 

cosmetic tattooing in Australia. She is at the forefront 

of education in the industry and has just returned from the 

Annual Spring Convention and Trade Show in Las Vegas for 

the Society of Permanent Cosmetic Professionals, of which 

she is Education Chair and board member. 

Along the way she has earned a swag of accolades 

from organisations, including the American Association 

of Micropigmentation Lifetime Achievement Award for her 

contribution to the cosmetic tattoo industry, and another 

prestigious award from the International Image Council. 

In short, Glover-Hovan has carved a career out of making 

Australian women look and feel more youthful and vibrant. 

‘When performed correctly, cosmetic tattooing can 

enhance and beautify a woman’s looks,’ she says. ‘This 

might include creating defined, well-groomed eyebrows, 

enhanced eye shape with eyeliner, and more youthfullooking 

lips with colour. The great thing is that all of these 

treatments last for many years. It makes me feel good to 

know I’ve made so many people feel more beautiful and 

confident throughout my career.’ 

It is Glover-Hovan’s lip work in particular which has 

gained so much international attention. She delivers regular 

educational presentations on optimising results in the lips, 

and tailoring treatment to each individual patient. 

‘Permanent lip line is suited to people who have no 

definite lip shape, or for pale, sun damaged or uneven lips 

and those that have lost shape as a result of cold sores or 

injury,’ she explains. Permanent lip line can also simply add 

definition for women who want to put more emphasis on 

their lips. 

To further enhance the appearance of the lips, clients 

can choose between a lip line and blend, which outlines 

Learn from the master 

of cosmetic tattooing! 

Basic and Advanced Training Courses by Val 

Glover-Hovan: Learn the art of full lip colour and 

blend, body illustrations, camouflage, MCA scar 

relaxation, repigmenting, needling, plus more. 

For further information regarding Training Kit 

options and costs, please call 02 9938 2111 or email 

info@cosmetictattooaustralia.com 

Learn more at www.cosmetictattooaustralia.com 

the mouth and blends the colour onto part of the lips, 

making the lip line more subtle; or a full lip colour, with more 

than 100 shades to choose from. ‘This is one of the most 

popular treatments,’ she says. ‘You can kiss without leaving 

a trace – no more worry about lipstick marks on your teeth, 

glassware or other people!’ 

Cosmetic tattoo can also bring definition to the brows, 

enhancing facial symmetry and framing the eyes. With 

techniques that allow her to mimic the appearance of hair, 

Glover-Hovan believes cosmetic tattooing can result in a 

real transformation. 

As cosmetic tattooing continues to grow in popularity, 

education is key in maintaining effective and aesthetic 

results. Glover-Hovan is a specialist and educator in 

cosmetic tattoo. She evaluates facial proportions and 

symmetry, as well as hair and skin colouring, before creating 

a design that will complement and enhance each client’s 

features to reveal a brighter, more striking appearance. 

‘When done well, cosmetic tattoo can have a significant 

anti-ageing effect and can help re-instil a sense of 

confidence and youthfulness, however, we all have different 

needs, lifestyles and tastes, and the cosmetic tattoo needs 

to reflect this,’ Glover-Hovan explains. ‘I have strived to set 

high standards for the industry in cosmetic tattooing with 

continued education and high quality products, promoting 

professionalism in treatments and training.’ csbm 


9:40 AM Page 1 

9:40 AM Page 1 

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feature 

Scar 

solutions 


feature 

Scars no longer 

have to be a lifelong 

legacy. Tara 

Casey investigates 

the different types 

of scars and their 

treatments. 

Scars are often an inevitable part of surgery, as well as accidents, some 

diseases and skin conditions such as acne. 

Most scars fade over time, usually over a period of a year to 18 months, 

although some can mark our bodies permanently. 

Studies suggest one in three scars becomes a permanent, often unsightly 

fixture with a raised ridge of hard tissue. Some can even continue to grow long 

into the healing process. One study found that nine out of 10 people who had 

undergone a routine surgical procedure within the past six to 12 months were 

unhappy with their residual scars. 

But the good news is that with advances in scientific research and medical 

technology, scars no longer have to be a lifelong legacy. While it is important 

to have realistic expectations about scarring with any kind of cosmetic 

procedure, you should also be aware of the scar treatment techniques available 

today which can significantly reduce the appearance of a scar – both before 

and after it has healed. 

What is a scar? 

Any wound that penetrates through the epidermis and into the dermis will cause 

scarring. However, the severity of the scar depends on the success of the skin’s 

repair response and the behaviour of your collagen. 

Collagen is the fibre-like protein that aids healing of skin and wounds by 

adhering together. In normal, healthy skin, the bundles of collagen are in a woven 

criss-cross pattern. The best case is when the epidermis around the edges of 

the wound closes together with the gluey collagen, staying flat and occupying 

the narrowest possible level surface. 

The worst-case scenario is when cells that repair the hole in the skin, known 

as fibroblasts, go into overdrive and a whole new system of blood vessels is set 

up to cater to the scar – triggering a collagen overload. Instead of neat criss-cross 

patterns, bundles of collagen form rigid, parallel lines, sometimes gluing layers of 

tissue and tendon together and forming lumps. The collagen also overflows onto 

the skin surface, creating rubbery scars that smother healthy tissue. 

Exactly why this happens with some scars and not with others is not fully 

understood. A wound does not become a scar until the skin has healed 

completely. After the wound has healed, a scar continues to alter as new collagen 

is formed and the blood vessels return to normal. This is the reason most scars 

will fade and improve over the two years following an injury to the skin. However, 

there will always be some visible evidence of the injury, and hair follicles and 

sweat glands do not grow back. 

Why do we scar? 

There are a number of possible answers to this question when it comes to 

undergoing a surgical procedure and bearing subsequent scarring. Poor surgical 

technique can contribute, so it’s important to select an experienced doctor with 

a good reputation. An individual’s genetic predisposition also weighs in, as 

does the location of the wound. Certain areas are likely to trigger worse scars, 

particularly those above moving joints. 


feature 

Types of scars 

There are lots of different causes of scarring, but not all scars are the same. 

Some types of scars include stretch marks and chicken pox scars, whereas 

scars that are deemed problematic include hypertrophic and keloid. 

Flat, pale scars are most common and are a result of the body’s natural 

healing process. Initially, they may be red or dark and raised after the wound 

has healed but will become paler and flatter naturally over time. 

Sunken scars are recessed into the skin and are usually a result of injury. 

They may be indented due to the skin being attached to deeper structures 

(such as muscles) or to loss of underlying fat. Another reason for sunken 

scars is residual pitting from acne and chicken pox. 

Stretch marks develop when the skin is stretched rapidly, for example 

during pregnancy, weight loss or gain or a growth spurt. Initially, stretch 

marks appear red but become paler over a number of years. 

Hypertrophic scars 

When a normal wound heals, the body produces new collagen at a rate 

that matches the breakdown of old collagen. A hypertrophic scar is formed 

when the collagen is able to build up on the surface of the wound. The scar 

remains within the confines of the original injury but is hard, raised and red. 

They may itch, though are not usually painful. 

Hypertrophic scars are more common in young people with darker skin 

and those with an inherited tendency to this type of scarring. It is not possible 

to completely prevent hypertrophic scars and they do come as a risk of 

surgery. Anyone who has suffered one should inform their doctor prior to a 

procedure. Scar therapies that may speed up the process of change from a 

hypertrophic scar to a flatter, paler one are available. 

Keloid scars 

Like hypertrophic scars, keloids are the result of an imbalance in the 

production of collagen in a healing wound. Unlike hypertrophic scars, 

keloids grow beyond the boundary of the original wound, affecting healthy 

tissue and creating lumpy scars that can continue to grow indefinitely. They 

may be itchy or painful and may not improve in appearance over time. 

Anybody can get a keloid scar and they can occur anywhere on the 

body. However, young people, whose skin has a tendency to over-repair, 

and those with darker skin are around 15 times more prone to this type of 

scarring. It is also more common on certain parts of the body such as the 

ears, chest, shoulders and back. 

If you’ve developed a keloid scar, you are more likely to be prone to 

this condition in the future and should alert your doctor when undergoing a 

cosmetic procedure. 

Internal scars 

An internal scar is an adhesion that can be formed deep inside the body 

or just below the skin’s surface. They occur when the tissue that has been 

operated on develops a scar that sticks organs to tissues. Those just below 

the skin surface can cause problems with muscles and tendons. 

The most common site is on the chest where the scar can connect to 

the sternum, however hands are generally the most problematic. When the 

top layer of skin becomes attached to the muscle or tendon beneath, it can 

cause other symptoms, such as rigidly fixed curled fingers. 


feature 

Preventing scars 

You can better manage scarring by being educated and prepared. Communicating 

that scarring is a key issue with your surgeon may affect where they make the 

incision or the techniques utilised, especially in procedures such as breast 

augmentation. 

Any wounds should be covered with a light, compressive dressing or pad 

post-procedure to keep it moist and prevent a scab forming. A scab can create 

a barrier to healing, so by keeping the wound moist you can steer the collagen 

away from the surface of the skin. 

Once the dressing is removed, use a moisturising lotion to hydrate the skin 

around the scar. This improves the healing process and helps ensure a balanced 

release of collagen. You don’t need an expensive moisturising cream, just 

something you know you have no reactions to initially. 

Gently massaging the scar for 30 seconds to a minute several times a day, 

from the time the wound has healed over, will assist in breaking up the scar 

tissue and help prevent the collagen from becoming lumpy. 

What can we do to treat scars? 

No scar can ever be removed completely, though they may improve naturally 

over a period of time or respond to methods to improve their appearance. It 

is best to treat scars early when they are more susceptible to less invasive 

treatments, as older scars tend to respond better to more involved treatments 

such as laser or surgical removal. 

Any wound that 

penetrates through 

the epidermis and 

into the dermis will 

cause scarring 

Medical treatment 

Laser works either by targeting the blood vessels that feed raised red scars or, 

in the case of CO 2 

lasers, removing the surface layers of the skin. Fractional CO 2 

lasers work by ablating discrete columns of tissue to remove some of the scar 

and stimulate collagen remodelling to create healthy new skin in its place. It is 

important to establish that a fully trained medical practitioner carries out any laser 

therapy with experience in improving scars. 

However, smaller gestures can be made to improve scars. A course of steroid 

injections can help to soften and flatten a hypertrophic or keloid scar. 

Pressure garments are most often used for burn scars, under supervision, 

once the wound has healed. They are made to fit like a second skin and it is 

thought the continuous pressure on the surface blood vessels allow the scars to 

become softer, flatter and paler. 

Low-dose, superficial radiotherapy may reduce the recurrence rate of 

hypertrophic and keloid scars after surgery, and cryotherapy uses specialist 

equipment to freeze the scar tissue using liquid nitrogen. Dermabrasion can be 

used to reduce irregularities by removal of the surface of the skin with specialist 

equipment. It may be helpful where the scar is raised above the level of the 

surrounding skin but is less useful when the scar is sunken or pitted. 

In the case of pitting, dermal fillers can be injected to build up the level of the 

skin. However, the effect is temporary and injections need to be repeated at 

regular intervals. 

At-home treatment 

Both waterproof and flexible, silicone gel sheets look and feel like transparent 

gelatine and work by flattening, softening and fading red and raised scars. They 

are comfortable to wear and easy to apply, even on awkward areas such as 

joints, and can be cut to fit. It works by moisturising and covering the scar area, 

helping to reduce size and improve the colour and elasticity. csbm 


scarring 

reduce scarring 

with Stratamed 

Stratamed is a 

breakthrough 

treatment for faster 

wound healing and 

abnormal scar 

prevention. It’s 

easy to use and can 

improve the visible 

outcomes of other 

cosmetic procedures. 

Caitlin Bishop 

reports. 

Scarring is a major consideration of cosmetic surgery patients. While the 

benefits of surgery and certain ablative non-surgical procedures can 

help rejuvenate the face and revitalise the complexion, the possibility of 

scarring post-procedure can sometimes detract from the final result. 

Stratamed is a breakthrough in post-procedure care and abnormal scar 

therapy. It is designed to accelerate tissue healing and prevent abnormal scar 

formation. It is the first semi-occlusive, self-drying, transparent silicone gel 

dressing, which can be applied on compromised skin directly after a procedure 

or skin trauma. 

Stratamed creates an optimal environment for faster wound healing. It helps 

reduce the inflammatory response and re-epithelialise, or lay down skin on the 

wound bed. 

Once applied, Stratamed self dries to form a full contact, flexible, protective 

sheet that bonds to the injured skin. Stratamed is bacteriostatic; it stops bacteria 

from reproducing and protects the wound from chemical and microbial invasion. 

Unlike fully occlusive medications, for example, petrolatum, Stratamed allows 

the wound and scar to breathe while remaining hydrated and protected. 

Stratamed does not adhere strongly to the healing tissue. This semi-occlusive 

effect works to protect the wound site, but also helps to improve hydration and 

speed up healing. 

During the healing process, Stratamed restores the barrier function of 

the outer-most epithelial layer – called the stratum corneum – and prevents 

dehydration of the skin. This allows the migration of skin cells across the wound 

bed for faster recovery. 

Stratamed feels good 

The application of Stratamed provides relief to symptoms of redness, 

discolouration, itching, discomfort and pain. It is easy to apply and can be 

used immediately after all dermatological interventions such as laser treatment, 

dermal abrasion, chemical peels, tattoo removal and surgery. 

The best results are achieved when Stratamed is in continuous contact with 

the skin – literally 24/7 – in the days and weeks following a procedure or skin 

trauma. For more information visit www.stratamed.com. csbm 


scarring 

Ask 

the facial 

plastic surgeon 

SYDNEY ENT AND FACIAL PLASTIC SURGEON 

DR ALAN EVANS EXPLAINS HIS APPROACH TO REDUCING 

SCARRING IN AESTHETIC SURGERY. 

How important is scar minimisation as part of your 

work as a facial plastic surgeon? 

Scar minimisation is crucial, it is the signature an artist puts on his 

painting. It appears to be the one single aspect of surgery that raises the 

most concerns in the patient. 

Almost all patients invariably raise concerns about the scar when 

undergoing any form of surgery, let alone aesthetic surgery. 

Stratamed is a 

breakthrough in 

post-procedure care 

and abnormal scar 

therapy 

How do you approach surgery in order to minimise 

scarring? 

The patient’s personal history relating to their skin type, thickness and 

previous keloids should be checked, as well as medications and drugs 

that infl uence the repair processes. To minimise skin scarring, the 

incision needs to be placed within natural facial or low tension lines 

and accurate incisions. Careful handling of the skin edges with delicate 

instrumentation helps. 

What scar treatments do you use following surgery in 

your practice? 

Following surgery, ointment usually prevents cicatrisation of the incisions, 

and silicone ointment has been shown to be useful for this. Other early 

treatments may include local antibiotic creams, minimising trauma to the 

incision and keeping the incision site clean. Taping the incision to reduce 

tension is sometimes needed. 

How does Stratamed and Strataderm fit in with your 

treatment protocols? 

Strataderm appears to help reduce raised or thickened scars if used 

regularly over 4-8 weeks post-operation. Stratamed has been useful to 

place early in the postoperative scar while still healing. I have also found 

it to be useful on early laser wounds to prevent drying and crusting. It is 

well tolerated and I have not seen it excite any infl ammatory response, 

which is good. 

How long have you been recommending these 

products? 

I have been using silicone preparations for approximately a decade and 

Strataderm for about fi ve years. 

I have not had any complaints from any patients about the use of 

topical silicone preparations and their feedback overall has been positive. 

For more information visit www.shirecosmetic.com.au 


genital 

EMPOWERING 

WOMEN 

with choice 

MINIMALLY INVASIVE GENITAL 

SURGERY CAN TRANSFORM LIVES, 

SAYS ADELAIDE GYNAECOLOGIST 

AND PELVIC RECONSTRUCTIVE 

SURGEON DR OSEKA ONUMA. 

TARA CASEY REPORTS. 

All women are born with differently shaped genitalia, 

however the effects of childbirth and ageing can 

cause many to suffer from problems that make them 

self-conscious and unhappy, often affecting relationships 

with their sexual partners. 

‘The function and form of the different parts of the vagina 

are closely linked to the female psyche and the perception of 

self in terms of attractiveness,’ says Adelaide gynaecologist 

and pelvic reconstruction surgeon Dr Oseka Onuma. 

‘As women become more aware that it is possible 

to correct potentially “embarrassing” problems, female 

genital surgery is increasing in popularity,’ he adds ‘These 

days women are less willing to accept changes in genital 

anatomy resulting from pregnancy, childbirth and ageing. 

They are less likely to have the attitude “it’s just part of being 

a woman”.’ 

Every organ within the female pelvic fl oor is subject to 

stress – from gravity or from the delivery of a baby. Muscle, 

connective tissue and epithelium can break, tear, stretch 

and lose their elasticity, resulting in functional impairments. 

The organs within the female pelvic fl oor that can be 

VAGINAL REJUVENATION 

Oversized, elongated or asymmetrical labia minora – 

the inner vaginal lips which surround the entrance to 

the vagina – can cause irritation and discomfort when 

wearing certain clothes, and during sporting activities 

or sex. 

According to Dr Onuma, women often identify an 

apparent problem with their labia early in their teenage 

years, or notice gradual changes with thickening as 

well as elongation over time. 

Laser reduction labioplasty can sculpt an elongated 

or unequal labia minora according to the patient’s 

wishes. ‘There is a wide variation in the appearance 

of the external genitalia, so no one look is normal,’ Dr 

Onuma says. 

‘The vulvar structures (including the labia minora, 

labia majora, mons pubis, perineum, entrance to the 

vagina and hymen) can be surgically enhanced, both 

functionally and aesthetically.’ 


Laser Vaginal 

Rejuvenation TM 

subject to prolapse include the urethra, bladder, uterus, 

vaginal walls, perineum and labia minora. All can present 

as a lump or mass that was not previously visible or noted 

by the woman. 

Common symptoms of vaginal wall prolapse or 

relaxation include a lump, a ‘dragging’ within the vagina 

or lower back, urinary incontinence, the need to empty 

the bladder frequently and/or with urgency, pain and/or 

reduced sensation during intercourse. 

Another problem is female stress urinary incontinence, 

caused predominantly by an improperly functioning urethra. 

When a woman suffers from this condition, weakened 

muscle and pelvic tissue don’t adequately support the 

urethra. As a result, the urethra doesn’t maintain a tight seal 

during exercise or exertion such as coughing or laughing 

and urine may escape. 

‘Beyond pelvic floor retraining and physiotherapy, there 

is now a range of minimal-access surgical options available 

that can address and hopefully resolve these problems,’ 

says Dr Onuma. 

Laser vaginal rejuvenation (LVR) can enhance vaginal 

muscle tone, strength and control. According to Dr Onuma, 

the laser techniques deliver gentle precision procedures 

with controlled accuracy and result in rapid healing, minimal 

pain and scarring, relatively fast recovery and allow for 

improved sensation and resumption of daily activities in a 

relatively short period of time. 

The procedure is performed in a fully accredited hospital 

to monitor any discomfort. After the procedure, the 

amount of time away from work depends on the type of 

work the patient does. ‘An office worker could return to 

work after two weeks; someone doing more physical work 

such as lifting or remaining on their feet for long periods 

normally returns to work after four to six weeks,’ he says. 

Total healing of surface and connective tissues along with 

damaged muscle may take up to six weeks. 

Most patients report mild discomfort which can be 

controlled by analgesics and cold packs to the area during 

the first week after the operation. 

Dr Onuma says LVR is a procedure with a relatively low 

risk, provided the surgeon is skilled and experienced. But 

as with any surgery, prior to the operation there should be a 

thorough discussion between the surgeon and the patient 

about the operation techniques and likely outcomes. 

‘No woman should suffer embarrassment or feel inhibited 

in her relationship with her partner due to the appearance 

of her vagina or physical sexual dysfunction,’ Dr Onuma 

says. ‘The importance of reassuring the woman that she is 

not alone in her genital issues and that there are options for 

improving her quality of life cannot be over-emphasised,’ he 

concludes. csbm 

SPECIALISING IN 

• Aesthetic and functional 

labial surgery 

• Curing urinary incontinence 

• Restoring pelvic support 

• Enhancing sexual gratification 

• Resolving menstrual dysfunction 

OUR MISSION 

Empowering women with 

knowledge, choice and 

access to world class care 

Dr Oseka Onuma 

BSc MJur MBBS FRCOG 

FRANZCOG 

Gynaecologist & 

Pelvic Reconstructive Surgeon 

Laser Vaginal Rejuvenation 

Institute of Adelaide 

Robe Terrace Specialist Centre Suite 

4 Robe Terrace, Medindie 

South Australia 5081 

Phone 08 8344 6085 

Facsimile 08 8344 6087 

Email reception@dronuma.com.au 

www.dronuma.com.au 

www.cosbeauty.com.au

genital 

Non-invasive 

vaginal 

tightening 

MonaLisa Touch is a surgery-free laser treatment that helps restore 

vaginal tissue and address certain gynaecological concerns. Caitlin 

Bishop reports. 

MonaLisa Touch, distributed in Australia by High Tech Laser, is a new 

non-surgical way to treat vaginal atrophy – a condition that causes 

symptoms including incontinence, poor lubrication, itching, dryness 

and pain during intercourse. MonaLisa Touch can also be used for aesthetic 

purposes, to counter the effects of ageing and achieve a rejuvenating effect by 

restoring vaginal tissue. 

‘MonaLisa Touch helps patients suffering from symptoms such as urinary 

incontinence, painful intercourse, dryness, itchiness, burning, vulval and vaginal 

pain, prolapse and laxity or looseness,’ explains Dr Fariba Behnia-Willison, a 

gynaecologist from South Australia. ‘These symptoms are part of a common 

condition known as vaginal atrophy. It can also be used for vaginal rejuvenation.’ 


genital 

Almost all of my 

patients notice 

a significant 

improvement after a 

MonaLisa Touch 

procedure 

The versatility of MonaLisa Touch stems from the technology it uses to 

improve the genital mucosa and restore proper function in the treatment area. 

Using laser light, the MonaLisa Touch probe – which is inserted into the vagina 

– delivers thermal energy into the deeper layers of the vaginal tissue. This kickstarts 

the body’s natural processes to increase blood flow and stimulate the 

formation of collagen, which improves the integrity and elasticity of the genital 

mucosa. This can be effective in alleviating vaginal pain in those patients 

experiencing gynaecological problems or vaginal atrophy, or in simply tightening 

the vaginal walls for a rejuvenating effect. 

‘To put it in simple terms, the MonaLisa Touch procedure stimulates the 

body’s natural processes,’ Dr Behnia-Willison explains. ‘It creates more hydrated 

and healthy cells which help to increase vascularisation, hydration and acidity, 

which are important components of vaginal health.’ 

According to Dr Behnia-Willison, a treatment to improve vaginal function is 

sought by a significant number of patients, of many different ages. ‘Although 

many of my patients are going through menopause or are post-menopausal, 

there are also many younger women suffering from similar symptoms,’ she says. 

‘I have found the treatment particularly effective for women who find it painful to 

have sexual intercourse.’ 

MonaLisa Touch delivers thermal heating at specific depths in the tissue to 

achieve an optimum, targeted result. Also, the fractionated effect means there 

are areas of untouched tissue left between laser columns. This healthy tissue 

helps promote healing and reduce downtime after treatment. 

‘The advantage of the MonaLisa Touch procedure, for both results and safety, 

is that it uses a fractionated CO 2 

laser, which means the heat is deposited at 

the ideal depth in the tissue,’ Dr Behnia-Willison explains. ‘And because it is a 

fractional laser treatment it leaves most of the superficial layer untouched, which 

is important from a safety perspective.’ 

The treatment itself is non-invasive and requires no anaesthesia. Often, a 

series of treatments is recommended to achieve the best results. ‘MonaLisa 

Touch is a straightforward and simple procedure. It involves a probe being 

placed inside the vagina and the fractionated CO 2 

energy being delivered to the 

vaginal tissue,’ says Dr Behnia-Willison. 

‘The published research has shown that the best results are obtained from 

three MonaLisa Touch treatments, performed a month apart. Most patients 

notice a significant improvement after the first procedure. I also recommend to 

patients they may need a follow-up procedure every year or so, after the initial 

course of treatments.’ 

As with any medical procedure, there are some potential risks with the 

MonaLisa Touch treatment. ‘In my experience, which is similar to that of 

overseas practitioners, the likelihood of post-treatment complications following 

a MonaLisa Touch treatment is minimal,’ she says. ‘The worst side effect I have 

seen has been some mild discomfort for 12 to 24 hours following the procedure, 

but this is in only a handful of patients and I have now performed more than 

1,000 MonaLisa Touch treatments.’ 

Whether you’re looking to relieve the symptoms of vaginal atrophy, or seeking 

a rejuvenating effect, MonaLisa Touch is a viable option, backed by clinical 

research and a history of success in a gynaecological setting. 

‘Almost all of my patients notice a significant improvement following the 

MonaLisa Touch procedure – some have even described the treatment as lifechanging,’ 

says Dr Behnia-Willison. ‘I hope it becomes the new standard of care 

for the many women suffering from these often painful symptoms that can effect 

their everyday life. It certainly has in my practice.’ csbm 


eauty & spa 

Train 

your 

skin 

The cooler months are the 

perfect time to TAke your skin to 

boot camp and get it back in top 

form. aimÉe surtenich reports. 

Weekly regimens involving active skincare can 

replenish, rejuvenate and promote cell turnover, 

while masks and peels for treating pigmentation, 

melasma and wrinkles can revive your skin after the long, 

hot summer. So what are the cool climes skin boosters that 

will help you get your skin fighting fit throughout winter? 

A serious skin routine incorporates a variety of layering 

strategies and techniques to diminish fine lines and 

wrinkles; fade pigmentation and age spots; firm sagging 

skin; minimise uneven skin tone; and improve breakouts. 

A few extra minutes every day spent with your skin 

rejuvenation products will turn a basic skincare routine into 

a serious skincare regime that will comprehensively address 

an array of skin issues. 


eauty & spa 

1. 

Clean 

Cleansers are an essential step in any effective skincare program. 

Choose a simple, gentle cleansing product that will effectively remove 

dirt, makeup and excess oil. Maintaining the evening cleansing step 

is the most important of them all to wash away the day’s wear and 

tear on the face. Try something with glycolic acid or AHA for added 

skin-refining and anti-ageing benefits. 

1. Societe Deep Thermal Cleanser, $79.20 

2. Ultraceuticals Ultra Clear Foaming Cleanser, $49 

3. Napoleon Balm Voyage Moisture Complex Cleanser 

and Makeup Remover, $59 

2. 

3. 


eauty & spa 

Exfoliate 

After cleansing, the next most beneficial strategy 

to incorporate into your serious skincare regime is 

exfoliation. Removing the old skin cells that collect on 

the surface of the skin encourages the growth of new 

cells, revitalising your skin. 

You can choose to use a mechanical exfoliation 

method, which is a granular scrub style, or a chemical 

exfoliant. The abrasiveness of a microdermabrasion 

scrub is quite effective in removing the outermost layer 

of dead skin cells that collect on the surface of the 

skin.Mechanical exfoliation can be integrated into your 

routine directly after the cleansing step once or twice 

a week. 

There are several opportunities to integrate chemical 

and enzyme exfoliants such as an alpha hydroxy or 

beta hydroxy acid, or Vitamin A (Retinol, Tretinoin and 

Retinyl Palmitate). These are good for fine lines and 

wrinkles and should be included in any serious skincare 

rejuvenation plan. 

A good exfoliant, microdermabrasion or peel can 

truly work wonders on jaded skin, removing dead cells 

and revitalising the complexion. Do bear in mind that a 

scrub doesn’t have to be harsh or very grainy to work. 

In fact, a product that is too harsh or is used with too 

much enthusiasm can do more harm than good and 

granular scrubs can exacerbate problems such as 

redness and broken veins. 

1. Obagi Nu-Derm Exfoderm Fort, $79.95 

2. ASAP Daily Exfoliating Facial Scrub, $49 

3. Paulas’s Choice Resist Weekly Retexturizing 

Foaming Treatment 4% BHA, $45 

1. 

2. 3. 


eauty & spa 

1. 

2. 

Masks & peels 

A regular face mask can keep skin in tip-top 

condition. Refining masks can the achieve the 

removal of the older, outermost layer of skin, 

which stimulates new skin cell growth. 

An occasional home or in-salon peel can 

also be a beneficial strategy to substitute for an 

exfoliation treatment for some skin types. 

1. Babor Energizing Lime Mandarin Invigorating 

Peeling Gel, $55, 2. Clinique Moisture Surge 

Overnight Mask, $47, 3. Paulas’s Choice 

Skin Recovery Hydrating Treatment Mask, $30, 

4. Jurlique Rose Moisture Plus Moisturising 

Cream Mask, $50, 5. Aspect Exfoliating Clay 

Mask, $55, 6. Babor Skinovage Intensifier 

Refreshing Foam Mask, $67, 7. Sisley Express 

Flower Gel Mask, $150, 8. Elixabeth Arden 

Visible Difference Peel & Reveal Revitalizing 

Mask, $55, 9. Raccine Ultimate Hydra 

Perfection Gentle Refining Scrub Mask, $44 

3. 

4. 

5. 

6. 

7. 

8. 

9. 


feature beauty & spa 

MOISTURISE, 

STRENGTHEN 

& PROTECT 

The winter months usually bring the diffi cult 

duo of cold weather and heating, which 

combine to suck moisture from skin, chapping 

lips and cheeks. This is not only unsightly but 

can also be very uncomfortable. A decent 

moisturiser is essential in winter, and you may 

fi nd you need to change to a richer one as 

your skin battles the elements. 

Moisturising gives your skin the arsenal it 

needs to ignite and sustain the rejuvenation 

process. Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a super 

additive to lock moisture into the skin. Try an 

HA serum with an SPF moisturiser over the 

top for a plumping day-time concoction. 

Peptides are known for their rejuvenation 

and repair properties, such as copper 

or hexapeptides, so they come highly 

recommended. Be warned that many of 

the anti-ageing ingredients, such as Vitamin 

A, AHA or BHA, greatly increase the skin’s 

sensitivity to the sun. 

Find a different skin rejuvenating moisturiser 

for day and for night that work well in synergy. 

For instance, if you are incorporating antiageing 

duo Vitamin C and copper peptide, 

use them at different times because they 

neutralise each other’s effective qualities. 

Don’t forget the all-important SPF, though. 

An incredible 80 to 90 percent of what we 

perceive to be the signs of ageing (wrinkles, 

dryness) are actually caused by sun exposure. 

Serums are a great option if you feel your 

skin is drying out over the colder months. 

There are many to choose from and most 

contain concentrated levels of benefi cial 

ingredients that are easily absorbed. A little 

goes a long way too; just apply a drop or two 

under your moisturiser to give skin a boost or 

use at night for an intensive treatment. 

1. Babor Biogen Cellular Ultimate Repair Cream, $274, 2. Sisley Black Rose Precious Face Oil, $250, 3. Paulas’s Choice 

Clinical Ultra-Rich Moisturiser, $46, 4. Jurlique Nutri-Defi ne Multi-Correcting Day Cream, $120, 5. Aspect SMC Super 

Moisturising Complex, $79.20, 6. Elixabeth Arden Eight Hour Cream Skin Protectant Nighttime Miracle Moisturiser, $35, 

7. L’Occitane Ultra Rich Face Cream, $58, 8. ASAP Ultimate Hydration, $85, 9. Obagi Hydrate Luxe Moisture-Rich 

Cream, $79.95, 10. ASAP Anti-Ageing Night Cream, $65, 11. Raccine Ultimate Hydra Perfection Illuminating Cream, 

$44, 12. Ultraceuticals Ultra Moisturiser Cream, $72, 13. Indermica Oxyderm Wrinkle Cream, $189, 14. Sukin Moisture 

Restoring Night Cream, $19.95, 15. Dr Lewinn’s Private Formula Day Cream Moisturiser Light SPF 15, $49.95, 16. Dr 

Lewinn’s Advanced Night Cream, $49.95. 


eauty & spa 

1. 

2. 

3. 

4. 

5. 

6. 

8. 

9. 

7. 

10. 11. 12. 

13. 

14. 

15. 

16. 


eauty & spa 

4. 

1. 

2. 3. 

1. Lancome Rénergie Multi-Lift, $147, 2. Lancome Advanced Génifi que Yeux Light-Pearl Eye Illuminator 

Youth Activating Concentrate, $95, 3. Elizabeth Arden Ceramide Capsules Daily Youth Restoring Eye 

Serum 60 capsules, $125, 4. PCA Skin Collagen Hydrator, $55, 5. Babor Revitalizing Oxygen Fluid 7x2ml, 

$93, 6. Inskin Cosmetics 818 One Truth Anti-Ageing Serum, $299, 7. Paula’s Choice Resist Intensive 

Wrinkle-Repair Retinol Serum, $52, 8. CR Formulations Berry Boost Serum, $89, 9. CR Formulations 

Silk & Pearl Peptide Serum, $79, 10. La Mav Antioxidant Rich Nightly Repair Nectar, $49.95, 11. Indermica 

Wrinkle Repair Serum, $116, 12. ASAP Radiance Serum, $89, 13. ASAP Super B Complex, $89, 14. Jing 

Qi Shen Diamond Rainbows Fire Intensive Repair Elixir, $300, 15. Dr Lewinn’s Private Formula Miracle 

Radiance Renewal Serum, $49.95, 16. Sisley Nutritive Lip Balm, $80 

10. 

11. 

5. 

6. 7. 8. 9. 


eauty & spa 

12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 


eauty & spa 

Blitz the 

BULGE! 

REMOVE TOXINS, SHRINK YOUR WAISTLINE 

AND IMPROVE CIRCULATION WITH THE 

INTERNATIONAL BODY WRAP AT NICOLE’S 

BEAUTY SALON. WORDS BY AIMÉE SURTENICH. 

When you’ve worked hard at the gym, booked your spray tan 

and picked the dress, it can be disheartening to discover a 

few extra centimetres on your body the day before a big event. 

With a reduction of your total body circumference guaranteed 

after one visit, the International Body Wrap is your best friend for 

last-minute centimetre blitzing. 

And the best part? The treatment is free if you don’t drop the 

minimum 15cm. 

Beauty with benefi ts 

• Guaranteed loss of 15cm 

• Improved circulation 

• Smoother skin 

• Removal of toxins 

The power of clay 

As the clay particles become 

hydrated, they expand and are 

able to absorb many times their 

own weight in body toxins. The 

solution acts as a magnet for 

many toxic elements present in 

the body such as free radicals, 

and draws out toxins and 

impurities from the body while 

cleansing your skin. 

What is it? 

The treatment involves being wrapped head to toe with bandages 

soaked in natural Dead Sea clay to cleanse and detoxify your body of 

impurities such as toxins and free radicals. After your body is measured 

and marked up so that centimetre loss can be calculated after the 

treatment, the bandages are wound around your body and a vinyl suit 

is worn for warmth and comfort while the power of clay gets to work 

over the next hour. 

Historically known for its cleansing and detoxifi cation qualities, 

the clay used to draw toxins out of the body is the key culprit 

in the resulting dramatic centimetre reduction. After an hour, not 

only is your skin softer, fi rmer and more toned but the skin tissue 

is also compressed and the soft fatty tissues are compacted, 

resulting in the reduction of your body circumference. 

Your body is smaller, trimmer and more toned-looking, all 

without the aid of a personal trainer. And if you’re thinking the 

reason is due to dehydration and water loss, think again: the 

centimetres lost are not a result of water loss and should last at 

least 30 days – and up to 12 months if you have a healthy lifestyle 

and don’t put on any weight. 

Where? 

Head to Nicole’s Beauty Salon, Double Bay, Sydney for the International 

Body Wrap and other rejuvenating and anti-ageing treatments. Phone 

0410 627 767 or visit www.nicolesbeautysalon.com.au. csbm 


LOSE 15CM AND KEEP IT OFF! 

Nicole’s Beauty Salon offers only the very best treatments available, 

including the International Body Wrap which improves the appearance 

of cellulite, stretch marks and scar tissue and is guaranteed to take 15 

centimetres off your entire body size - or your money back! 

With highly trained aestheticians and stunning surroundings, any 

treatment you have at Nicole’s Beauty Salon will be a luxurious 

experience you’ll long for time and time again. 

02 9327 7728 

mobile 0410 627 767 

nicole@nicolesbeautysalon.com.au 

Shop 8, 401 - 407 New South Head Rd, 

Double Bay NSW 2028 

www.nicolesbeautysalon.com.au

feature beauty & spa 

Straight 

from the salon 

DIY STYLING 


eauty feature & spa 

Joseph 

Mourad on 

Hair stylist to the stars 

Joseph Mourad has invented 

a game-changing device 

– the first and only combined 

hair dryer, straightener and 

styler. Caitlin Bishop reports. 

There’s nothing better than a salon blow dry and 

straighten – but, for a style that seems so easily done 

in-salon, the same look can become near impossible 

to achieve at home. Not any longer. 

Joseph Mourad is an established and celebrity-renowned 

hairdresser in Sydney’s Double Bay. Now, he’s released a 

game-changing invention after 10 years in development – 

the first and only hair dryer and straightener combined. 

The frustration associated with DIY styling is down to 

coordination, Mourad believes. The secret behind that 

fresh-from-the-salon look is the ability to move seamlessly 

between a blowdryer, brush and straightener. The answer? 

Mourad has combined these three tools into one device. 

With hot plates for straightening, hot air vents for blowdrying 

and attachable brush bristles, Mourad’s system dries 

hair, adds volume and straightens or styles for a smooth, 

slick finish. 

SHARK TANK 

Joseph Mourad presented his 

product on the entrepreneurial show 

SHARK TANK on Channel 10 last 

season. Here’s an excerpt from 

what one of the “sharks” (akajudges) 

Naomi Simson had to say: 

‘For more than 30 years as a stylist, 

Joseph Mourad has pondered why 

people cannot get a salon quality 

blow dry at home,’ Simson says. 

‘Joseph has invented a cross 

between a hairdryer and a 

straightening iron – he spent close 

to $800k developing his invention.... 

and beautifully designed device.’ 

For more information on this 

revolutionary DIY styling device, 

call 02 9328 2277 or visit 


Transform your look in minutes, 

whether you’re after slick and 

straight shine, soft waves and 

body, or large, flowing curls. 

Most importantly, it’s fast. Mourad’s device can transform 

your look in only minutes, whether you’re after slick and 

straight shine, soft waves and body, or large, flowing curls. 

The blowdryer, brush and straightener can be used 

as a combined system, or separately as a stand-alone 

blowdryer or straightener. In short, this is an all-inone 

solution to DIY styling. Mourad’s invention brings 

professional styling home with you; it’s easy to use and 

achieves fast, runway-ready results. csbm 


eauty & spa 

Winter 

body 

care 

The skin on your body 

deserves some extra 

pampering in the cooler 

months to keep it soft 

and smooth. AimÉe 

Surtenich reports. 

With a wardrobe of leather boots, 

tailored coats and luxurious 

fabrics, winter is definitely the 

more sophisticated sister of the seasons. 

But hydrated and supple skin doesn’t come 

so easy in cooler weather. 

Skin suffers the most in winter; low levels 

of moisture in the air and blustery winds can 

cause our skin to become dry and irritated. 

Now’s the time to pull out all the stops and 

start the pampering process. 


eauty & spa 

Bath oils 

Shower gels 

Instead of hitting the snooze button, give 

yourself a hit of energy by lathering up 

with a freshly scented shower gel. Citrus 

oil is said to have anti-anxiety and antidepressive 

effects in aromatherapy, so 

a fresh citrus-smelling shower gel will 

invigorate the senses to give you that getup-and-go. 

Other scents such as mint, lime, 

peppermint, eucalyptus, tea tree, grapefruit 

and orange are zesty and enlivening scents 

to wake you up for the day ahead. 

Opt for a wash-off moisturiser if you’re 

looking for something that will soothe your 

dry winter skin. 

The steam from a warm shower 

relaxes the surface of the skin and allows 

moisturisers to infiltrate the deeper layers to 

really boost hydration levels. 

Baths are the crème de la crème of relaxation. Create your 

own aromatherapy session, indulging in scents such as 

lavender, honey, vanilla, rose or jasmine to soothe the senses. 

Milk has been the a body beautifier for centuries, used by 

kings and queens to keep them looking as youthful as 

possible. Bath milk lightly moisturises the whole body and 

blankets the skin with nutrients. 

Exfoliators 

Body scrubs are a great way to get rid 

of dry skin and get the blood circulating 

around the body. Sea salt body scrubs 

prime the skin for products such as 

moisturiser by removing dead skin 

cells and dirt particles, ensuring that 

the active components of the product 

are deeply penetrated into the layers of 

the skin. 

No time for a total body scrub 

session? Chemical exfoliators contain 

mild acids that remove dead skin cells, 

creating a slight tingling sensation on 

application that only lasts a few minutes. 

Scents in exfoliating creams are often 

activated as they are applied to the skin 

– which make for an energising start to 

a slow winter morning. 

Exfoliation is an important part of 

rejuvenating the skin (not to mention 

imperative for winter faux-tan prep). 

Whichever exfoliator you use, make 

sure to follow it up with a moisturiser for 

skin that is soft and smooth. 

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 

1. La Mav Coffee Bean Body Scrub, $29.95, 2. Sunescape Hydrating Shower Gel, $19.95, 3. Sanctuary Spa Green 

Lemon & Orange Blossom Body Wash, $14.99, 4. L’Occitane Revitalizing Body Cream Scrub, $45, 5. Sanctuary Spa 

Hot Sugar Scrub, $19.99 


eauty & spa 

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 

Moisturisers 

If you only buy one body product this winter, make it a moisturiser. Everyone’s skin behaves differently from season to 

season, so look for a richer and more intensive moisturiser for skin in winter and a lighter one in summer. 

Barrier is the word de jour. In healthy skin the top layer (epidermis) has a seal around the cells to trap moisture, known 

as a barrier function. Dryness, cold and sensitising products wreak havoc on this natural function and can lead to rashes, 

itching and skin conditions such as eczema, so you need products to bolster your skin’s defences. Using or adding a richer 

cream or oil into your routine will help to nourish and nurture your skin back to health. 

Scented moisturisers can be a great substitute for perfume, and chances are your favourite brand of perfume 

has a lotion in the same scent. If it’s not heavy duty enough for your skin, mix it with a rich fragrance-free lotion to 

keep your skin smooth and smelling sweet. 

7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 

1. Sisley Restorative Fluid Body Cream, $180 

2. Paula’s Choice Resist Retinol Skin-Smoothing Body Treatment, $40 

3. Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Cream Intensive Moisturising Body Treatment, $35 

4. Clarins Relax Body Treatment Oil, $62 

5. Sunescape Hydrating Body Butter, $29.95 

6. Clinique Deep Comfort Body Butter, $58 

7. TanOrganic Multi-Use Dry Oil, $42.50 

8. Jurlique Clarity Hand Lotion, $80 

9. Babor Shaping Firming Body Lotion, $81 

10. L’Occitane Almond Supple Skin Oil, $54.25 

11. Vaseline Intensive Care Lotion - Deep Restore, $5.25 

12. Vaseline Intensive Care Spray Moisturiser Advanced Strength, $9.99 

13. Essano Rosehip Intensive Hydrating Body Lotion, $16.99 

14. Sukin Hydrating Body Lotion, $19.95 


eauty & spa 

Winter warmers 

Despite the mid-winter chills, who can resist 

the lure of a golden summer glow? Here are 

some of our favourite tried and tested selftanners 

to help you go faux like a pro. 

Before you begin, make sure you slough 

off dead skin cells to extend your tan’s life 

and also prevent patchy results. Use a buff, 

loofah or grainy body scrub to exfoliate, 

paying extra attention to drier areas such 

as elbows, knees and ankles that soak up 

colour more intensely. 

A word of warning though: a fake tan can 

make you look more faux than fabulous in 

winter, so remember less is more. It’s easier 

to add layers to a conservative tan than 

lighten a too-dark job. Alabaster beauties 

may benefit more from a moisturiser with 

built-in tanner, which will gradually build and 

maintain a holiday glow. 

1. Tan Organic Self-Tanning Oil, $42.50, 

2. L’Oreal Paris Sublime Bronze Self 

Tanning Smoothing Gel, $23.95, 

3. Sisley Self Tanning Hydrating Body Skin 

Care, $120, 

4. Lancome Self Tan Autobronzant Flash 

Bronzer, $75 

1. 2. 3. 4. 


WI 

NT 

ER 

beauty & spa 

beauty 


WINTER IS ALL ABOUT PORCELAIN SKIN 

AND VIXEN LIPS. HERE’S OUR PICK OF THE 

PRODUCTS TO CREATE THIS FLAWLESS 

AND OH-SO-SOPHISTICATED LOOK. 

AIMÉE SURTENICH REPORTS. 

Kiss with kapow this season with a bold and 

beautiful lip. Whether it’s warm or cool, make sure it 

packs a punch in opaque red, raspberry, plum or 

burgundy hues. 

Keep eyes glam or neutral as your wardrobe dictates, 

but don’t let them steal the limelight from your pout. Eye 

makeup should be beautifully blended and brows should be 

perfectly groomed, with long, defi ned lashes. 

Vixen eyes and lips only work when you have a perfect 

base, so prep your canvas by exfoliating your face before 

you apply your makeup. Apply concealer and a luminous 

foundation using a sponge or brush and set it using 

translucent powder. Rosy powder or cream blush applied to 

the apples of your cheeks adds a romantic fl urry of colour, 

defi ning cheekbones and imparting a healthy hue. 

The look is all about the basics – fl awless 

foundation and concealer, paired with bold and 

confi dent lips and cheeks and neutral-toned 

eyeshadow, with lashings of black mascara. csbm 

BASE 

1. L’Oreal Paris Infallible Liquid Foundation in Sable 

Sand $31.95, 2. Eles Retexturizing Face Primer SPF20 

$64.25, 3. Benefit Boi-ing Concealer in 02 $37, 4. 

Giorgio Armani Crema Nuda Supreme in Warm 

Glow $243, 5. Eles Dual Action Concealer $37.50, 6. 

Lancôme Teint Idole Ultra 24H $55, 7. Laura Mercier 

Smooth Finish Flawless Fluide in Butterscotch $59, 

8. Elizabeth Arden Flawless Finish Perfectly Satin 

24HR in Cream Nude $50, 9. Clinique 2-in-1 Beyond 

Perfecting Foundation + Concealer in 18 Sand $50 

1. 

2. 

3. 

9. 

4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 

BLUSH 

1. Clarins Multi-Blush in candy $42, 2. Covergirl Clean Glow Blusher in Roses 

$12.95, 3. L’Oreal Paris Le Blush in Candy Cane Pink $25.95, 4. YSL Blush 

Volupté in Héroïne $75, 5. Giorgio Armani Sheer Bronzer in Amber $82 

1. 

2. 3. 4. 5. 


eauty & spa 

1. 

EYES 

1. L’Oreal Paris Colour Riche Les Ombres Eyeshadow 

Quad in Infi niment Bronze $23.95, 2. Giorgio Armani 

Eyes to Kill Mascara in Black $57, 3. Napoleon Nude 

U Eyes, Cheeks and Brows Palette $79, 4. Covergirl 

Bombshell Shineshadow in Copper Fling $8.99, 5. 

Sisley Phyto 4 Ombres in Mystery #2 $110 

2. 

3. 4. 5. 


eauty & spa 

LIPS 

6. 7. 8. 9. 

1. 2. 3. 4. 

5. 

1. L’Oreal Paris Infallible Lipstick in Persistent Plum $24.95, 2. Shu Uemura Rouge Unlimited 

Lipstick in WN255 $42, 3. Elizabeth Arden Beautiful Color Moisturizing Matte Lipstick in Raspberry 

Matte $35, 4. Sisley Phyto-Lip Twist in Coral #7 $50, 5. Ulta3 Moisturising Lipstick in Sweet Current 

$2.95, 6. Giorgio Armani Crystal Shine Gloss in Pink 524 $52, 7. Clarins Rouge Eclat Lipstick in 

Hot Chocolate $38, 8. Lancôme L’Absolu Rouge Lipstick in Rose Noire $50, 9. Eles Microbubble 

Lipstick in Blush $39.50 


eauty & spa 

FAV 

OUR 

ITES 

Dermaquest Algae 

Polishing Scrub $55. This 

cooling exfoliator uses 

jojoba beads and relaxing 

algae extracts to clear away 

dead skin cells and hydrate 

the complexion. 

EDITOR’S 

Benefit Sugarbomb $51. 

We love anything from 

Benefi t and Sugarbomb is no 

exception! It combines four 

shades – rose, pink, plum 

and peach – alongside a hint 

of shimmer to highlight the 

cheekbones and make your 

complexion sing. 

Showpony Hair Extensions with 

Clip-in Fringe $110. A fresh-fromthe-salon 

look has never been 

more achievable! Give yourself the 

perfect fringe in minutes with these 

natural-looking hair extensions. 

WE SHARE THE PRODUCTS WE CAN’T LIVE WITHOUT, 

STRAIGHT FROM THE BELLA BEAUTY DESK. 

Chloé Eau De Parfum 

50ml $130. This fragrance 

makes the Favourites for its 

subtle, fresh and crisp scent. 

There’s nothing better for 

day-to-day wear. 


WoodWick Candle in Island 

Coconut $49.95. This soy 

wax candle smells like an 

island holiday! The scent 

combines juicy pineapple 

and milky coconut with 

hints of banana and vanilla – 

tropical getaway, anyone? 

beauty & spa 

Eles Luminous CC Cream 20 $49.50. It’s lightweight, oil-free 

and provides sun protection. Not to mention, it’s beautiful to 

apply. Don’t be put off by its light colour; the micro-encapsulated 

pigments adapt to your skin tone for a fl awless fi nish. 

Batiste Strength & Shine Dry 

Shampoo 200ml $12.95. A lifesaver 

between washes, this dry shampoo 

refreshes and strengthens hair, while 

restoring body and shine. 

Sunescape Instant Self-Tan 

Mousse $39.95. Perfect for 

a bronzing on the run, this 

hydrating mousse creates a 

smooth, natural and sunkissed 

look in minutes. 

Metacell Renewal B3 from SkinCeuticals 

50ml, $149. Gentle, hydrating and 

corrective, what’s not to love? This smooth 

serum is a cocktail of highly concentrated, 

anti-ageing actives, designed to combat 

early signs of photoageing. 

L’Oreal Elvive Fibralogy Thickness Booster 

$9.95. Achieve thicker hair wash after wash, 

with this breakthrough range from L’Oreal. 

Apply a 50c sized dollop of this to your hair 

between shampooing and conditioning. 

Sisley Phyto-Lip Twist in Candy #8 $50. 

These lippies colour like a lipstick and shine 

like a gloss. Most importantly, the colour pops! 

L’Oreal Elvive Fibralogy 

Double Serum 30ml 

$9.95. This leave-in 

treatment combines 

a thickening gel and 

a smoothing serum, 

providing the perfect 

solution to thicker 

looking hair. 

QVS Foundation Brush $11.99 and 

QVS Powder Brush $9.99. Say hello to fl awless, 

stay-put foundation with these makeup brushes, 

creating seamless application and easy layering 

for optimum coverage. 

Giorgio Armani Fluid Master 

Primer 30ml $75. This primer 

visibly smooths the skin’s 

surface, hides those tiredlooking 

pores and creates the 

perfect canvas for immaculate 

makeup application. 

Model wearing showpony hair extensions 


travel 

beautiful 

destinations 

Step off the fast-paced Bangkok streets and 

you’ll find the thriving metropolis is a haven 

for relaxation and rejuvenation. We take a 

trip to the bustling hub to bask in some R&R. 

What many spa devotees have known for years has become 

official: a jury of industry insiders and journalists has declared 

Thailand Asia’s spa capital. A rejuvenating spa treatment in 

one of Bangkok’s luxurious spas or a traditional Thai massage may just 

be the perfect antidote to the sightseeing and shopping-your-socks off 

the city is notorious for. 

Combine the legendary Thai hospitality with ancient healing knowledge, the 

exotic tropical surrounds of the city’s decadent hotels and spas and you have 

the ultimate pampering recipe for the pursuit of inner and outer beauty. 

The conclusion we came to? Spoiling yourself is just unavoidable in Bangkok. 


feature travel 

HANSAR BANGKOK 

3 Rajdamri Road, Lumpini, Pathumwan, 

Bangkok 10330, Thailand 

Tel: +66 2209 1234 

Email: info@hansarbangkok.com 

www.hansarbangkok.com 

Driving through the buzzing streets of Bangkok’s shopping district, the sights 

and sounds suddenly lull as you turn off onto a lush lane en route to the Hansar 

Bangkok. 

A haven of elegance, contemporary sophistication and comfort, the Hansar 

Bangkok is a boutique property (part of the Small Luxury Hotels group) at the 

cutting edge of customer service and a benchmark of modern standards. 

Its ivy-trimmed walls climb towards the sky, providing a stark contrast against 

the glass and chrome, and cocooning against the garish neon lights and blaring 

horns of Bangkok’s streets. Hansar offers an architectural edge in an aged city, 

as does the array of innovative and highly spacious suites. 

With four unique dining concepts, Hansar Bangkok offers experiences for the 

culinary connoisseur. Do not miss the fine dining French Provençal experience 

at the upmarket Eve, the newest starlet on the Bangkok dining block. An infinity 

edge pool, jacuzzi, spa, fitness centre, landscaped sky terrace, private roof club, 

business centre and function rooms also provide for the discerning traveller. 

Contemporary interiors collide with thoughtful design twists inside the range 

of suite configurations. As I enter, a distinctive interior garden wall alive with 

tropical greenery greets me from behind a glass-walled courtyard. The verdant 

Jim Thompson silk-panelled living area and lounge gives way to the plush 

bedroom, and then the languishing masterpiece that is the bathroom – decked in 

a harmonious marriage of wood, water and stone. The expansive space features 

double sinks, a decadent rainshower and free-standing terrazzo bathtub, 

each encased in their own glass compartments. In the living areas a daybed 

cantilevered out over the pool soars into the bustling metropolis of Bangkok, an 

intimate niche to enjoy a drink while surveying the city lights. 

The temple of restoration and renewal in the heart of Hansar is its in-house 

Luxsa Spa. Luxsa comes from the Sanskrit language and means ‘healing – 

health through water’. This philosophy, together with the ancient Thai healing 

methods based on the four body elements of earth, water, air and fire, forms the 

basis of the spa’s concept. 

A sanctuary for the senses, Luxsa offers an array of holistic treatments – from 

soothing aromatherapy with pure Thai essential oils, spices and aromas and 

facials using pure Thai ingredients to traditional massages and detoxifying body 

wraps. 

The spa comprises eight treatment suites, and I’m led down a hall to a 

spacious double spa suite with a private bathroom and outdoor jacuzzi for my 

treatment. I opt for one of the spa’s signature treatments, the 90-minute Eastern 

Blend Massage. It’s a medium to strong massage that combines traditional Thai 

techniques using soothing oils and targeting pressure points. It was the perfect 

remedy to relieve sore and tired muscles and left me knot- and tension-free after 

a day sightseeing. 

For the height of luxury boutique accommodation that prides itself on lavishing 

personal attention on each and every visitor who enters its doors, Hansar 

Bangkok is Destination Perfect. 


travel 

Dusit Thani Bangkok 

946 Rama IV Road 

Bangkok 10500, Thailand 

Tel: +66 0 2200 9000 

www.dusit.com 

The famed Dusit Thani Bangkok Hotel has been a social and 

business institution in Bangkok for 40 years. Even non-English 

speaking taxi drivers know exactly where to take you when 

you wander, disoriented by bustling Bangkok, into their cabs. 

When I arrive at the Dusit Thani, it’s abuzz with excitement as 

teenagers eagerly await the arrival of four Korean popstars. 

The international hotel standards of the Dusit Thani 

Bangkok, a travel partner of Preferred Hotel Group, are 

delivered with distinctive Thai artistry and graciousness – 

befitting of a hotel that translates in Thai to ‘a town in heaven’. 

Ideally located in the heart of Bangkok, it sits adjacent 

to Lumpini Park – a green respite in a concrete jungle. My 

spacious two-bedroom suite is extravagantly appointed. Two 

bedrooms, each with an ensuite, living area and dining, make 

for plenty of space to spread out shopping acquisitions. 

Devarana Spa is an oasis of tranquility within the Dusit 

Thani, named from Thai-Sanskrit meaning ‘garden in 

heaven’. The contemporary Thai design and decor envelops 

you on entry and relaxes the weary urbanite. The welcoming 

reception features a sparkling water pond, natural light 

and vibrant colours leading off to the private and double 

treatment suites. Luxuriously designed in a contemporary 

Thai style, each room boasts facilities such as a steam room, 

shower room, floral bath, massage area and a lounge on 

which to unwind. 

The treatment menu is an array of internationally 

influenced massage, facials, water treatments, body wraps 

and packages. The signature Heavenly Nantha Garden 

Experience is a delight. It combines fresh tropical pink 

lotus and champaca with aromatic blends of ylang ylang 

and jasmine to create a divine experience. A body scrub is 

followed by a massage, blending Thai, Ayurveda and Shiatsu 

techniques with Swedish and aromatherapy influences. 

For those who love both being on the doorstep of the 

action and traditional Thai style, Dusit Thani is your Mecca. 


travel 

Tower Club at lebua 

1055/42 Silom RoadBangrak, 

Bangkok 10500,Thailand 

Tel: 66 2624-9555 

Email: towerclubresvn@lebua.com 

www.lebua.com/en/ 

Perched over the meandering Chao Phraya river, the Lebua State Tower with its 

gold-domed skyscraper is hard to miss among the erratic Bangkok skyline. A 

destination in itself, internationally renowned for its gastronomical offerings, it’s 

an ideal retreat high above the bustling Bangkok streets. 

For the pinnacle of luxury at Lebua, I stayed in a River View Tower Suite 

at The Tower Club – a range of suites that sprawl across floors 54 to 59 – 

offering breathtaking views from private balconies with cushy interiors. The rare 

privileges of the guests at The Tower Club are access to the Tower Club Lounge, 

complimentary mini-bar and Bulgari amenities, among others. 

Lebua, a member of Preferred Hotels & Resorts, provides every pampering 

facility expected of a luxury hotel. A fully equipped gymnasium, relaxing open-air 

pool, jacuzzi, elegant sauna, steam rooms and staffed massage rooms ensure 

you’re in good shape mentally and physically. 

In truth, it’s more likely you’ll hit the gym to work off the culinary sins of the 

night before. The Dome at State Tower on the 63rd floor – a shiny gold beacon 

in the Bangkok night sky – boasts some of the city’s most celebrated venues. 

Restaurants include Sirocco, Mezzaluna and Breeze, and the world-renowned 

Sky Bar offers convivial guests cocktails and fine vintages with a view that is 

second-to-none. 

Not to be missed is the exquisite open-air dining experience at Mediterraneaninfluenced 

Sirocco, where live jazz accompanies fine fare and a mesmerising 360 

degree bird’s eye view of Bangkok in all its nighttime glory. The popularity of the 

venues at The Dome mean you needn’t leave your lofty perch to enjoy a full and 

exciting night out among the glitterati. All restaurants and bars provide their own 

unique approach with attention to detail and immaculate customer service. 

The Tower Club at Lebua soars as one of the prized destinations in the city, 

with everything you need to spoil yourself silly. 


travel 

ISLAND 

dreaming 

Samui and Phangan may be widely known for full moon 

parties and revelry, but we explored the quieter side 

of these destinations for those who prefer to take 

their luxury with a side of spa treatments. 

East of the Thai peninsula in the Gulf of Thailand lay two little leisure-seeker’s 

gems – the islands of Samui and Phangan. These are newer additions to 

the tourism circuit when compared to boom town Phuket, possibly born 

out of the lure created around the islands of Thailand by Alex Garland’s The 

Beach. Adventure seekers and holidaymakers now flock here to grasp a handful 

of paradise. 

While the bustling hubs of these islands are known for shopping, festivals and 

full moon parties, there is a flip side to this coin. Peace, indulgence and luxury 

wash up in other nooks and shores of the islands. 

The Bangkok to Samui, Phangan and Tao route is one of the most common 

paths taken by travellers wishing to explore the Gulf of Thailand islands, of which 

Phangan is the second largest. Tucked away in a private bay on the island of Koh 

Phangan lays Santhiya Koh Phangan Resort & Spa. 

Its distinctive eco-chic approach to a hideaway escape, set against a backdrop 

of mountains giving way to the sapphire ocean, sets it apart. Villas scatter across 

the 18 acres of verdant tropical landscape, embracing the natural setting. 

Whisked from Samui on a Santhiya speedboat with picturesque scenery 

flying by, we dock at the resort’s private pier 30 minutes later. The beautiful 

Thong Nai Pan bay is the neighbour of Santhiya’s private beach, which any 

Google search will tell you is among the island’s most beautiful locales. Upon 

arrival at Santhiya Resort & Spa, a member of the Small Luxury Hotels group, 

I’m welcomed into four traditional teakwood Salas (pavilions). They surround a 

glorious lofty inner court punctuated by ornate leather sand-dollar chandeliers 

from the vaulted ceilings. Thedesign is inspired by the architecture of the King 

Rama V period, in keeping with traditional Thai designs and green building 

principles. It quickly becomes clear that here it’s assured your definition of a 

blissful holiday will be met. 


travel 

If you’re not into exciting outdoor and water activities, the three gourmet 

restaurants, relaxing poolside by the waterfall or spa-ing the day away at Ayurvana 

Spa will be sure to satisfy the soul. 

Lush tropical forests and the crystal-clear private bay provide a stunning 

backdrop for the suites and villas. The concept of the hotel is for guests to stay 

as close to nature as possible, which is why the villas were built around the 

existing landscape rather than consuming it. The property has also implemented 

environmentally friendly conservation projects to promote a sustainable ecosystem 

– such as garbage separation, planting new trees and reducing water. 

Stylish Thai teak villas with tropical forest or sea views feel grand yet 

secluded, so you come to believe you’re the only person on the resort. Their 

burnished orange and grey rooftops feel warm and earthy, set into the lush green 

mountainside. 

Each structure is truly unique, with its own details to delight in. My favourite 

features are the open-air bathroom and the private pool off our deck. The grand 

four-poster bed is swathed in white mosquito nets, and the separate sitting room 

and large outdoor spa tub are thoughtful touches for unwinding time. At all times 

you’re serenaded by the symphony of cicadas setting the air alive. 

While some patrons may prefer meditating and gaining mental clarity at the 

Santhiya Fitness Centre, where you can practice yoga at the break of dawn 

and tone up, I prefer finding my Zen at the spa. Tucked away in a quiet corner 

among the palm trees is the Ayurvana Spa, a partially open structure that draws 

in the panorama of the bay before it. Its ideology revolves around traditions and 

celebrating nature in its purest form. Aromatherapy massage rooms and a sauna 

lead off to the spacious open-air Thai and Foot Massage terrace. 

An array of spa treatments soothe from head to toe – from traditional 

massages, aromatherapy oil massages to facial treatments, body wraps and 


travel 

scrubs, mineral baths, reflexology and herbal saunas. 

The sounds of water, palm fronds and the scent of 

the sea complement my Revitalizing Facial, which deeply 

moisturises dehydrated skin after the salty sun and surf. The 

natural products used contain active ingredients to reduce 

fine lines, restore suppleness and balance the complexion. 

My partner opts for the Gentlemen’s Skin Treatment, a 

great way to get your man into the salon with you. My 

other favourites on the menu were the Sunburn Facial and 

massage, perfect for the holidaymaker that misjudged the 

sun’s rays. 

Santhiya Resort & Spa offers visitors the perfect 

opportunity to indulge and lavish themselves with a guiltfree 

disclaimer and promotes the privacy some holiday 

makers crave. 

The largest island is Samui, which is also closest to 

the Thai mainland. Tongsai is a small, private bay on the 

northeastern tip nestled in 25 acres of beautiful gardens 

that melt into the surroundings. 

The story of the Tongsai Bay began in 1985, when the 

late Khun Akorn Hoontrakul, then chairman of The Imperial 

Family of Hotels, saw Tongsai Bay from the sea and 

declared that it was love at first sight. It went on to become 

the first five-star luxury hotel on Koh Samui. A short 10 

minutes drive from Samui Airport found us winding along 

the driveway at the Tongsai Bay, now a member of Summit 

Hotels & Resorts. 

Emerald, fertile tropical gardens submit to the secluded 

sandy bay, lined by deck chairs and gazebos. Set back from 

the beach are 83 suites, cottages and villas. All rooms boast 

mesmerising ocean views and spacious terraces, although 

our Grand Pool Villa is on another level all together. Perched 

on the hillside, the large terraces include a gazebo (where 

we nap in the eve open-air, beneath a mosquito net) as 

well as a bathtub-for-two, a pantry-bar area, a dining table 

and sun loungers beside a private plunge infinity pool. In 

the Grand Villas you’re more likely to languish outdoors and 

take in the spectacular panoramic view of the ocean than 

retreat inside. Although inside you’ll find a private sanctuary 

– with high ceilings, a four-poster bed and lounge as well as 

a dressing quarter with his’n’her vanity basins, a dressing 

table, double built-in wardrobes and a shower. 

We stroll across the bay and wind up the leafy peninsula 

to the Prana Spa, which specialises in a relaxing technique 

of Thai massage. It revolves around synchronising the mind 

and body to decrease stress. A series of spa cottages are 

positioned around a courtyard, each uniquely designed 


travel 

Getting 

there 

Thai Airways operates daily flights 

from major Australian capital cities to 

destinations across Thailand. To get 

to and from Bangkok, Bangkok Air – 

Asia’s only boutique airline – operates 

multiple flights each day to lusted 

holiday hubs such as Koh Samui. 

Book online at 

www.thaiairways.com.au and 

www.bangkokair.com 

for two adults and replete with herbal steam room, a floral 

bath in the open air, an outdoor foot treatment area, two 

massage beds and two body treatment beds. 

Once we’re thoroughly relaxed, we take part in the more 

social vibe on Tongsai Bay – with happy hour drinks by the 

water’s edge followed by the much-anticipated Barbecue 

Banquet, which sees guests flocking to the nine Thai cuisine 

stations set up throughout the Po-Lad Beach Bistro & Bar. 

The Tongsai Bay is set away from the chaos of the 

bustle and bars of Chaweng and offers a peaceful respite 

for visitors who enjoy spoiling themselves while remaining 

connected to like-minded holiday makers when they chose. 

The islands of the Gulf of Thailand offer a slice of bliss 

away from the plights of urban living. The chance to unwind 

while your holiday effortlessly unfurls before you can be 

found on the beaches of Samui and Phangan. csbm 

Santhiya Resort 

& Spa Koh Phangan 

+66 0 7742 8999, www.santhiya.com 

Tongsai Bay 

+66 (0)77 245 480, tongsaibay.co.th 


Directory 

Beauty Expo 

Reed Exhibitions 

Phone +61 2 9422 2500 

info@salonmelbourne.com.au 

www.salonmelbourne.com.au 

Bella Media 

Phone +61 2 9398 2755 

info@bellamedia.com.au 

www.bellamedia.com.au 

Dr Buddy Beaini 

MD Cosmedical Solutions 

Phone 1300 885 808 

info@mdcosmedicalsolutions.com.au 

www.mdcosmedicalsolutions.com.au 

Dr John Flynn 

Cosmedic & Skin Clinic 

Phone 1300 881 388 

info@cosmedic.com.au 

www.cosmedic.com.au 

Fractora 

High Tech Laser 

Phone 1300 309 233 

www.likeyourlook.com.au 


Cosmetic Tattoo Australia 

Phone +61 2 9938 2111 


Jane Iredale 

Margifox 

Phone +61 7 5474 1788 

enquiries@margifox.com.au 

www.margifox.com.au 

Indermica Professional 

Treatment 

Advanced Cosmeceuticals 

Phone 1800 242 011 

www.advancedcosmeceuticals.com.au 

Dr Steven Liew 

Shape Clinic 

Phone +61 2 8356 2888 

nola@shapeclinic.com.au 

www.shapeclinic.com.au 

www.breastshape.com.au 

MonaLisa Touch 

High Tech Laser 

Phone 1300 309 233 

www.likeyourlook.com.au 

Dr William Mooney 

Phone 1300 DR WILL (1300 379 455) 

info@drwilliammooney.com.au 

www.rhinoplastysydney.com.au 

Joseph Mourad 

Hair & Beauty 

Phone +61 2 9328 2277 

contact@josephmourad.com.au 


Dr Sarkis Nalbandian 

Designer Smiles 

Phone +61 02 9953 4189 

www.designersmiles.com.au 

Nicole’s Beauty 

Phone +61 2 9327 7728 

Phone 0410 627 767 

www.nicolesbeautysalon.com.au 

Dr Oseka Onuma 

Laser Vaginal Rejuvenation 

Institute of Adelaide 

Phone +61 8 8344 6085 

rooms@dronuma.com 

www.dronuma.com 

Regen PRP 

Australasian Medical & Scientific 

Phone 1800 201 760 

www.regenlab.com 

www.amsl.com.au 

Shortcuts 

Phone 1300 66 73 74 

www.shortcuts.com.au 

Skin Renu Laser & 

Rejuvenation Clinic 

Phone +61 2 9555 9506 

info@skinrenu.com.au 

www.skinrenu.com.au 

Stratamed 

Stratpharma 

Phone 1800 567 007 

www.stratpharma.com 

Sydney Permanent Makeup Centre 

Rita Porreca 

Phone +61 2 9569 7799 

info@spmuc.com.au 

www.spmuc.com.au 

Synergie Minerals 

Terri Vinson 

Phone 1300 689 619 

info@synergieminerals.com 

www.synergieskin.com 


ACTUAL PATIENT OF DR STEVEN LIEW 

At the 

Heart of 

Aesthetics 

Face Breast Body 

Suite 109, 19A Boundary St, Darlinghurst NSW 

T 02 8356 2888 | info@shapeclinic.com.au 

shapeclinic.com.au

Body Balance 

Dr John Flynn 

cosmedic& 

Dr John Flynn 

skin clinic 

Reshaping can create 

cosmedic& 

the look you want 

skin clinic 

Breast augmentation can 

enhance the natural size 

and shape of your breasts 

Refi nement in Cosmetic Surgery 

With breast augmentation, your natural form can be 

enhanced and complemented. This results in a balanced 

and symmetrical effect that suits your individual body type 

and achieves a feminine silhouette. 

Liposuction to Shape and Contour 

With liposuction, Dr John Flynn can reshape and contour 

your form to achieve balance between your body’s 

proportions. Areas such as the abdomen and inner and 

outer thighs respond particularly well to this procedure. 

CERTIFIED 

IN COSMETIC 

SURGERY 

Dr John Flynn 

M.B., B.S., Dip. R.A.C.O.G., F.R.A.C.G.P. 

Dip. P. Dermatology., F.A.C.C.S. 

Fellow of the Australasian College of Cosmetic Surgery 

Certifi ed by the American Board of Laser Surgery 

Dr John Flynn has over 20 years of experience as 

a medical practitioner on the Gold Coast 

AD Flynn.indd 1 

CERTIFIED 

IN COSMETIC 

SURGERY 

20/4/09 9:01:39 AM 

AD Flynn.indd 1 

For more information or to make an 

appointment call Cosmedic and Skin Clinic 

1300 88 13 88 

Southport | Gold Coast 

Suite 2, 98 Marine Pde, Southport 4215 

www.cosmedic.com.au | info@cosmedic.com.au 

Dr John Flynn 

20/4/09 9:01:39 AM 

cosmedic& skin clinic 

Dr John Flynn

Cosmetic Surgery and Beauty Magazine #68

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