Dermaplaning is one of the most popular treatments we offer at Inland Cosmetic Surgery’s Ahava Medspa in Rancho Cucamonga. With immediate results and no down time, it’s easy to see why clients choose this option to instantly revive a dull complexion and reveal smoother, healthier-looking skin.

With a surgical blade and experienced eye, our highly-trained providers will gently sweep away peach fuzz and layers of dead skin cells. The radiant skin underneath will allow your skincare to penetrate deeper and for makeup to lay beautifully on the skin. This process promotes healing and increases the natural production of collagen and elastin so the skin benefits continue even after your appointment.

In this blog, we answer 9 of our patients’ most-asked questions about this popular skin treatment.

1. Is dermaplaning painful?
2. Is dermaplaning just shaving?
3. Does hair grow back thicker after dermaplaning?
4. Can I alternate microdermabrasion and dermaplaning?
5. Can men get dermaplaning?
6. Can you get dermaplaning while pregnant?
7. Is dermaplaning safe for rosacea?
8. Can I use retinol before dermaplaning?
9. Can I do dermaplaning at home?

Is dermaplaning painful?

No, when done properly, dermaplaning is painless. In fact, many patients find this treatment to have a soothing effect as the skin is rhythmically swept in short, gentle strokes. Keep in mind that choosing a licensed provider will ensure your experience is comfortable and the best results are achieved.

Is dermaplaning just shaving?

No, dermaplaning is a deep exfoliation treatment performed by a skilled, licensed professional. The surgical-grade blade removes up to two weeks of dead skin cell buildup along with removing peach fuzz. While shaving can also remove peach fuzz, it will not achieve the level of exfoliation that is experienced with dermaplaning. Note that both methods cut the hair straight across, leaving a blunt edge that may feel sharper at first, but any slight “stubble” you may feel is temporary and not indicative of increased facial hair growth.

Does hair grow back thicker after dermaplaning?

Absolutely not! Like we mentioned in the previous answer, dermaplaning leaves a straight edge on the hair shaft. As it starts to grow back, the hair may temporarily feel thicker because of the blunt tip. It will soften as the hair continues to grow. Dermaplaning does not reach the hair follicle and has no effect on how the hair grows. Your hair will remain the same color and texture it was before it was dermaplaned.

Dermaplaning does not reach the hair follicle and has no effect on how the hair grows.

Can I alternate microdermabrasion and dermaplaning?

You can; just be sure to use the same trusted medical spa provider for all of your skin treatments and follow the recommended intervals between procedures—your skin needs time to renew itself and reap the benefits of treatment. Also note that you’ll see differing results from each as microdermabrasion does not remove vellus hair (peach fuzz), but rather deeply exfoliates with minute abrasions and gentle suction. With the help of your aesthetician, pay attention to the benefits you see from each option so you can make educated choices about which treatment will best serve your skin in any given season.

Can men get dermaplaning?

Yes, men can experience the same benefits from dermaplaning. You should shave any area you would like treated the day of your appointment. If you would like to keep some facial hair, we can exfoliate the forehead, face, and neck areas. Avoid shaving any exfoliated areas for a week after treatment. Dermaplaning will also have no effect on how hair grows back for men.

Can you get dermaplaning while pregnant?

Yes, because it removes only the top layers of skin without the use of chemicals, it is considered safe for pregnancy. Still, it is very important that you disclose your pregnancy to your provider during your consultation so that they can mitigate any unnecessary risks.

Is dermaplaning safe for rosacea?

No, dermaplaning is not the best treatment option for patients with rosacea: the process could further aggravate the skin. If you have inflammatory skin conditions such as rosacea or eczema, or active acne breakouts, dermaplaning may not be the right choice for you. This is another reason why it is so important to find a dermaplaning provider that works under the supervision of a qualified board certified physician. (At Ahava Medpa in Rancho Cucamonga, our skin experts will carefully evaluate your skin and help you determine which treatment options will provide optimal benefits.)

Dermaplaning is not the best treatment option for patients with rosacea, as the process could further aggravate the skin.

Can I use retinol before dermaplaning?

No; we recommend avoiding retinoids 5-7 days prior to and after dermaplaning treatment to avoid over-exfoliating the skin. Over-exfoliation compromises the skin’s natural barrier as sebum is stripped away and cell turnover is accelerated beyond what is healthy.

Can I do dermaplaning at home?

No; the instrument used to exfoliate the skin is essentially a scalpel and thus dermaplaning should only be performed by an experienced professional. If not done properly, cuts, scrapes, inflammation, and scaring pose a considerable risk. Our Ahava Medpa team in Rancho Cucamonga is highly-trained and can be trusted to perform this procedure safely and provide outstanding results.

Dermaplaning in Rancho Cucamonga

Ahava Medspa at Inland Cosmetic Surgery is fully equipped to help you achieve beautiful, healthy skin. Our medspa team is highly-experienced and passionate about providing patients with safe and effective treatments with proven results. We would love to meet with you to answer any questions and help you determine if dermaplaning is the right treatment for you. Schedule a consultation with our skilled team of providers online or call the office at (909) 987-0899.

We are pleased to introduce you to Dr. Emma Ryan, Rancho Cucamonga’s newest cosmetic surgeon! Dr. Ryan is highly skilled in cosmetic procedures with an impressive academic pedigree. Dr. Ryan is also a new mom, and is passionate about helping others feel more confident after the changes that come with childbearing. She offers a range of breast enhancement, body reshaping, and facial rejuvenation procedures.

We sat down with Dr. Ryan to learn about the journey that brought her to the Inland Empire, as well as what patients can expect if you decide to meet with her for your cosmetic surgery consultation.

Why did you become a cosmetic surgeon?

When I was in high school, I had the privilege of shadowing several surgeons in different specialties. I was drawn to cosmetic plastic surgery because I felt it made a huge difference in the confidence and the lives of the patients. In medical school I completed my clerkship in general surgery, and I was hooked on surgery!

“A mommy makeover boosts the confidence of women who have dedicated their lives and bodies to their children…It is very satisfying to see a mother get her dream body after giving so much for her kids.”

I enjoy general surgery, but I chose to pursue cosmetic surgery specifically because the patient population is so rewarding to work with. For the most part, cosmetic surgery patients are healthy, active, and want to improve themselves. They are more driven to exercise, eat healthy, and maintain their results. It is fun to see the transformation in patients and help boost their confidence.

If you had to pick, what is your favorite procedure?

My favorite procedure is abdominoplasty with waist/back liposuction and breast augmentation—or “mommy makeover” as these procedures are often called when performed together. I have seen how this procedure boosts the confidence of women who have dedicated their lives and bodies to their children through childbirth and breastfeeding. It is very satisfying to see a mother get her dream body after giving so much for her kids.

While many cosmetic surgeons specialize in either the face or the body, you are skilled in and enjoy performing procedures both for the face and the breast/body. What is it like working with one area versus the other?

Both areas are rewarding, because each is challenging in its own respect. Facial procedures require finesse, and the goal is to make it appear that the patient has had nothing done. Body procedures are more about big movements and noticeable results. It is nice to be able to perform both.

Do you have any thoughts about women in the field of cosmetic medicine?

I think both men and women can make excellent cosmetic surgeons. Sometimes I have patients tell me they are more comfortable with a female surgeon, due to the sensitive procedures being performed.

“At Inland Cosmetic Surgery, Dr. Haiavy has developed a culture of education and continued learning that I feel everyone benefits from, including both staff and patients.”

This career requires many years of vigorous training, and I believe there is more inherent strain on women training and working in this field due to the challenges of motherhood. The culture of surgical training is definitely changing for the better, however, and there are more women graduating from surgical training now than in the past.

Why did you choose to join Inland Cosmetic Surgery after completing your fellowship here?

During my cosmetic surgery fellowship here at Inland Cosmetic Surgery, I was made to feel like family. The other surgeons, surgical staff, and medical staff were very welcoming and helped me through my training. I enjoy the fast pace of the clinic and OR (operating room), and I enjoy the patients here in Rancho Cucamonga. Dr. Haiavy has developed a culture of education and continued learning that I feel everyone benefits from, including both staff and patients.

Do you have any general advice you’d give to patients who are seeking cosmetic surgery?

Make an appointment and keep an open mind. Research your procedure and bring questions to the consultation. Not every cosmetic surgeon is the same! Surgeons have different training, experience, specialties, and personalities, so make sure you are comfortable with all aspects of the visit before proceeding with surgery.

“Not every surgeon is the same! Surgeons have different training, experience, specialties, and personalities, so make sure you are comfortable with all aspects of the visit before proceeding with surgery.”

If you had some unexpected free time, what’s the first thing you would do with it?

Spend time with my family, and take a weekend trip to the beach!

What are your favorite spots where you’ve traveled or lived?

My favorite spots to which I’ve traveled would be south of France and Spain. I also enjoy vacationing to Hawaii, and traveling back and forth to Phoenix, Arizona where my family lives. I lived in Anchorage, Alaska for several years before medical school, and it was the most beautiful place I’ve spent time.

Learn more and schedule your consultation with Rancho Cucamonga cosmetic surgeon Dr. Emma Ryan

Female cosmetic surgeon Dr. Emma Ryan is fellowship-trained through the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery (AACS) and specializes exclusively in aesthetic enhancements. She is here to help you realize your goals for your appearance, offering a range of procedures including facelift, tummy tuck (abdominoplasty), and breast surgery. Call (909) 987-0899 or contact our practice via this online form to schedule your consultation today!

When it comes to breast implants, misinformation is everywhere. To help you separate fact from fiction, Rancho Cucamonga cosmetic surgeon Dr. Jacob Haiavy is debunking some of the most common breast augmentation myths below. Keep reading to learn why these misconceptions, like that silicone breast implants are unsafe, don’t reflect the reality for the millions of women currently living with breast implants.

• Myth: Augmented breasts look fake
• Myth: Women only get breast implants to go bigger
• Myth: Silicone-filled breast implants aren’t safe
• Myth: Recovery is difficult
• Myth: Breast implants only last for 10 years

Myth: Augmented breasts look fake

Reality: Women approach breast augmentation with a diverse range of aesthetic goals.

It is true that augmented breasts can look dramatic (if you want them to!), but they can also look completely natural. In fact, advancements in breast implant technology have brought us some of the most natural-looking breast implants ever—and women have a huge variety of size, shape, and projection options to ensure they get just the look they want.

While it remains common for women to choose a buxom aesthetic, women are increasingly requesting a natural-looking augmentation with modestly sized implants. Plus, modern silicone gel-filled implants are lightweight and feel more like natural breast tissue, contributing to their natural appearance and feel.

Myth: Women only get breast implants to go bigger

Reality: Breast implants can be used to create a natural look or to restore symmetry.

When it comes to breast augmentation, there is no such thing as one-size-fits-all—and most of our patients simply want to better fill out clothing, appear more feminine, or feel more confident in their own skin (not have Baywatch-style breasts). While size is a big consideration, it’s not the only one. Many patients have an augmentation to improve symmetry or breast shape, enhance their body proportions, or even to correct a defect such as tuberous breasts.

Myth: Silicone-filled breast implants aren’t safe

Reality: Modern silicone breast implants have been extensively redesigned and proven safe for most women. Silicone is also safely used in numerous other types of medical implants.

Modern silicone breast implants are completely different from the versions that were used decades ago: every brand has substantially redesigned their offerings, and all were submitted to extensive multi-year safety studies before achieving FDA approval. In fact, silicone breast implants are among the most highly scrutinized devices in the history of medicine.

Additionally, all currently available silicone implants have resolved the primary concern with past generations of breast implants: they have a cohesive fill that cannot migrate through the body if the implant shell is ruptured. (In the rare case where an implant rupture occurs, the cohesive silicone gel fill will stay within the pocket around the implant until it can be safely removed, and replaced if desired.)

In sum, modern silicone breast implants have an extremely solid safety record and low complication rates. Not only that, they feel more natural, leading to high patient satisfaction. At Inland cosmetic Surgery, our surgeons are some of the few in the world who can place silicone implants through the umbilicus with no scars on the breasts and a very natural look and feel.

Some women still believe they should choose saline implants in the hopes of avoiding silicone, but this is an outdated need. First, choosing saline implants will not help you entirely avoid placing silicone in your body, because silicone material is used for the outer shell of saline-filled implants. Secondly, risks of silicone migration have been resolved with modern cohesive silicone fills, so choosing saline implants for this reason alone is unnecessary.

It is true that some breast implants have recently been recalled due to safety concerns, but the implant fill type was not the issue: it was the textured (instead of smooth) shell. Certain highly textured breast implants were found to be associated with a very rare cancer, breast implant associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL). To avoid this risk, our practice exclusively uses smooth-surfaced implants, which allow us to achieve excellent results for our breast augmentation patients.

Myth: Recovery is difficult

Reality: Most women find recovery to be manageable and usually return to work in less than a week.

This is a matter of opinion, as the initial recovery experience varies quite a bit from person to person; the type of anesthesia used is also a large factor. However, many of our breast augmentation patients return to office jobs within just two to three days of surgery. Healing from any surgical procedure isn’t a walk in the park, but most patients wouldn’t describe their breast augmentation recovery as grueling. Discomfort can be managed with a combination of over-the-counter pain medications, rest, and application of ice packs. Plus, an overwhelming 97% of breast augmentation patients think the surgery and recovery was totally worth it.

Myth: Breast implants only last for 10 years

Reality: There is no need to replace implants every ten years, as implants often last much longer.

This is one of the most common breast implant fallacies. Today, the majority of FDA-approved breast implants come with 10-year warranties that cover implant replacement should something happen with the implant within that time. Yet this does not mean that you need to replace your implants after 10 years. Many patients are still thrilled with their results well after 10 years have passed, and there is no medical reason to replace 10-year-old implants that are otherwise considered to be safe.

That said, you should have your implants checked regularly using MRI or ultrasound imaging and remain open to the possibility of implant replacement surgery down the road. Most of the time, however, patients choose to replace their implants based on changes in their bodies or aesthetic preferences, rather than from any failure of their original implants.

Visit Inland Cosmetic Surgery for breast augmentation with the experts

If you’re ready to amp up your curves, your choice of surgeon will affect your results more than any other decision. Find an experienced cosmetic surgeon who has performed your desired procedure hundreds of times and can demonstrate their ability by answering your questions and showing real results for patients like you.

If you’re in or around Rancho Cucamonga, give us a call at 909.987.0899 or contact us online. Our highly skilled cosmetic surgeons, Dr. Jacob Haiavy and Dr. Emma Ryan would be glad to help design the perfect surgical plan for you.

If you’re paying attention to facial rejuvenation options, you may already know that Ultherapy skin tightening can turn back the clock throughout the aging face. This treatment allows us to visualize and target deeper tissues with ultrasound energy, stimulating collagen growth. Because it bypasses your outer layer of skin, Ultherapy requires zero downtime.

But Ultherapy’s magic is not limited to the face! In today’s blog, we’re sharing the 3 additional areas where Ultherapy can turn back time and keep you looking fresh—all with a treatment you can squeeze into your lunch break.

1. The double chin: Ultherapy lifts excess skin & smoothes wrinkles

It may seem that gravity and fat deposits are causing the extra volume below your chin, but for many patients, the “double chin” is caused by skin laxity. Ultherapy treats sagging skin at the foundational level, prompting your body to selectively “heal” deep tissues, rebuilding the collagen and elastin in your skin. In this way, Ultherapy can create a stunning transformation by lifting the skin below the chin and visually emphasizing your natural jawline. The best part? The results appear gradually over the course of 2-3 months, so you will enjoy a dramatic change with a natural outcome that others can’t quite put their finger on.

2. The turkey neck: Ultherapy firms and lifts

Early signs of aging in the neck, which may have you cloaking yourself in scarves and turtlenecks, don’t require surgical intervention. If you are distracted by wrinkles or thinning skin in your neck, Ultherapy can lift and firm your skin to help reverse “turkey neck” before it progresses further. The precise Ultherapy handpiece combined with tissue visualization allows us to customize your neck rejuvenation treatment where you need it most for a natural-looking result—and a serious confidence boost.

3. The décolletage: Ultherapy revitalizes crêpe-like skin

The area from the chin to the top of the breast is delicate and quick to show age with fine lines, thinning skin, wrinkles, and folds—even if you keep your décolletage moisturized and use sun protection.

If your upper chest seems to be giving away your age, skip the over-the-counter topical creams whose results will be subtle at best. Ultherapy is quickly becoming the gold standard option for revitalizing the area. Since Ultherapy promotes collagen and elastin growth, it can turn back time in your décolletage not just by “lifting” the skin, but also by strengthening the skin’s structure. After treatment, the skin appears firmer, more evenly toned, and smoother.

As with Ultherapy in any area, many are happy with their results after just 1 treatment, though repeat treatments may be desirable for upkeep or to take your results even further.

Many patients are happy with their results after just 1 treatment, though repeat treatments may be desirable for upkeep or to take your results even further.

How do I know if Ultherapy is right for me?

If you are ready to see improvement in your decolletage, neck, chin, or face, but you’re not ready for a facelift or neck lift, then you are likely a good candidate for Ultherapy. Many patients like to use Ultherapy as preventative maintenance at a younger age, when skin is just beginning to visibly lose volume. For those who have already undergone lift surgery but want to touch up their results, Ultherapy can enhance and extend the smoothing effects of a surgical lift. And for some, a customized Ultherapy treatment may even prevent the need for surgery later in life.

Choose a cosmetic surgeon with extensive experience using Ultherapy for nonsurgical lifting and skin tightening, and they can help you determine the most effective treatment plan for your needs and your lifestyle. An experienced cosmetic surgeon should lay all of your options on the table so that, together, you can choose the best treatment for your anti-aging goals.

Find out if Ultherapy is the treatment for you

To learn more about Rancho Cucamonga Ultherapy treatment areas, cost, and details of treatment, you can read all about Ultherapy here. When you are ready to schedule a consultation at our Ahava medpsa with our Rancho Cucamonga aesthetics team, contact us online or by phone at (909) 987-0899. We can’t wait to help you look and feel your best!

“Listen to your gut.” “You are what you eat.” You’ve likely heard these expressions your whole life, but they may be more true than you ever realized. Until recently, the brain and digestive tract were considered separate physiological entities, operating independently of one another. But within the past few years, researchers have begun to make the connection between mental health and gut health.

Today we’ll examine how the brain and gut are related, and how you can optimize your gut’s microbiome to improve your mental and physical wellbeing.

What is the gut microbiome?

Your gut microbiome includes everything from your mouth to your colon, including your stomach, small and large intestines, and the thousands of species of microbes—bacteria, fungi, viruses, and cells—that live within these organs. (Fun fact: the amount of bacterial DNA in our bodies is 10 times greater than our own DNA!) A number of factors including diet, environment, and physical & mental health all influence, and are influenced by, our gut microbiome.

The relationship between gut health and mental health

Mental health disorders are on the rise. According to the CDC, more than one-third of Americans suffer from affective mental health disorders, including anxiety and depression. Between 2008 and 2017, the number of young adults who experienced serious psychological distress increased by a staggering 71%.

Simultaneously, obesity, diabetes, and heart disease have all increased dramatically over the past few decades as nutritious whole foods have been replaced with ultra-processed foods high in saturated fats and sugars.

Noting the synchronicity of these two seemingly unrelated trends, researchers are now making the connection between increased rates of mental health concerns and poor nutrition. In fact, many scientists now refer to the gut as a “second brain,” capable of influencing everything from mood to obesity. For example, people with irritable bowel syndrome are often depressed, people on the autism spectrum tend to experience digestive problems, and people with Parkinson’s disease are prone to constipation, according to Science Magazine.

The gut-brain axis: two-way communication

The gut communicates with the central nervous system (CNS) through a biochemical process known as the gut-brain axis. Since this communication is bidirectional (it goes both ways), not only can our gut health influence our mental health, but our mental health can influence our gut health. When you feel stress or anxiety in your stomach, this is the result of the gut-brain axis: your GI tract is experiencing inflammation due to signals sent there from your brain.

Mental health is influenced by the gut

A healthy gut microbiome is essential for your body to properly absorb nutrients and convert them into molecules that are critical for your overall health and wellbeing. Here are 3 molecules essential for brain health that your body gets from food:

1. Tryptophan. Tryptophan is an amino acid found in foods including turkey, eggs, and chia seeds. Your body converts tryptophan into 2 key neurotransmitters: serotonin and melatonin. Simply put, serotonin is responsible for helping you feel happy, while melatonin helps you sleep. Without proper serotonin and melatonin levels in your brain, you’re more likely to be stressed out, fatigued, irritable, and depressed.
2. Tyrosine. Your body converts tyrosine, an amino acid found in foods such as almonds, lentils, seeds, and edamame, into dopamine and epinephrine. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that helps regulate mood and energy. Epinephrine, known more commonly as adrenaline, is the chemical responsible for our “fight or flight” instinct. A lack of tyrosine is often associated with lethargy, low motivation, and slow responsiveness.
3. Indole-3-lactic acid. Indole-3-lactic acid (ILA) is an acid found in fermented foods like pickles, kimchi, sauerkraut, and nattō, and is converted into indole-3-propionic acid (IPA) in the gut. As one of the strongest antioxidants in the body, IPA helps neutralize free radicals that can cause tissue damage, premature aging, stomach and bowel cancers, and psychiatric disorders.

Why is good gut health dependent on eating healthy foods?

Eating healthily not only helps ensure your body gets the nutrients it needs to protect itself from illness and perform optimally, but it also helps your gut maintain a healthy microbiome. If your gut microbiome isn’t healthy, your body won’t be able to digest nutrients properly, creating a whole host of problems.

You can condition your gut microbiome

Thankfully, our gut microbiomes aren’t set in stone. By eating certain foods, you can actually condition your gut to produce the microbes needed to digest these foods. If, for example, you only eat foods that are high in fat, your gut bacteria that are responsible for breaking down fat will outcompete with other, more beneficial, bacteria. But, if you adopt a whole foods diet including plenty of vegetables, your gut microbes will adapt to digest these foods and even begin to crave them. According to a review in Clinics and Practice, diet alterations can have a significant impact on your gut microbiome in as little as 24 hours.

Making dietary changes can have a significant impact on your gut microbiome in as little as 24 hours.

A healthy gut starts with a diverse diet

Consuming a wide array of foods is important for cultivating a healthy gut microbiome. A study published in the journal Aging showed that eating a varied diet is associated with increased energy, healthy immune functioning, better mental clarity, and improved emotional wellbeing. A typical American diet, on the other hand, has been linked to obesity, type 2 diabetes, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s.

A reduction in microbial diversity and the loss of beneficial bacteria can also cause leaky gut syndrome, a phenomenon where gut microbes and undigested food particles can leak through the intestines and into the bloodstream. Leaky gut syndrome has been associated with inflammatory bowel disease, diabetes, and asthma, as well as depression, anxiety, and autism.

What should you eat for a healthy gut microbiome?

So, you want to feed your gut’s microbiota healthy nutrients for optimal brain functioning—but what should you eat? Start with this short list:

Fruits and veggies

Emerging research supports that eating a variety of fruits and vegetables can provide your gut with most of the nutrients it needs to support a healthy microbiome. Apples, berries, grapes, and onions all contain phytonutrients that may increase serotonin and dopamine in the brain. So while we don’t recommend discontinuing any prescription medications, eating a variety of fruits and veggies every day can have significant improvements on your mental and emotional wellbeing.

Eating a variety of fruits and veggies every day can have significant improvements on your mental and emotional wellbeing.

Fiber

Eating foods that are high in fiber helps to assure you’re eating a diverse diet, since most whole foods contain high levels of fiber. Unfortunately in the U.S., only 1 in 20 people consume the daily recommended amount of fiber. Researchers have found that eating more fiber is associated with higher levels of beneficial bacteria in the gut responsible for breaking down fiber. When these bacteria digest fiber, they produce short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), which have anti-inflammatory properties and are capable of reducing insulin sensitivity and appetite. Whole grains, beans, cruciferous vegetables, and dried fruit are all high-fiber foods.

Probiotic-rich foods

According to the Clinics and Practice review, probiotics have the ability to restore normal microbial balance and reduce inflammation in the GI tract. Because of this calming effect on the gut, researchers are interested in the potential role probiotics may have in the treatment and prevention of anxiety and depression. Though it doesn’t confirm whether or not probiotics can be used to treat these psychological disorders, a randomized controlled study published in the journal Brain, Behavior, and Immunity found that they may help reduce negative thoughts associated with feelings of sadness.

Until more research is published showing causation between probiotics and improved mental health, we don’t recommend relying on probiotics alone to treat any mental health disorders. That said, consuming probiotic-rich foods, like kimchi, kombucha, kefir, and nattō, introduces plenty of beneficial bacteria to your gut microbiome and is good for your overall health (plus, they’re super tasty!).

Omega-3 fatty acids

Omega-3 fatty acids are a type of polyunsaturated fat that can increase good bacteria in the gut and have anti-inflammatory effects in the body. Health experts have suggested that omega-3s may help reduce the risk of depression and protect against cognitive decline in the elderly. Omega-3 can be found in foods such as walnuts, flax seeds, and oily fish.

Please note: Be sure to talk to your doctor before taking any new supplements or making any significant dietary changes. Everyone’s bodies (and guts) are different, therefore not all foods are beneficial to all people.

Look and feel your best at Inland Cosmetic Surgery

We hope this information helps you make informed dietary and lifestyle decisions to optimize your health. If you’re in the Inland Empire and also want help looking your best, American Board of Cosmetic Surgery cosmetic surgeons Dr. Jacob Haiavy and Dr. Emma Ryan can help! Schedule a consultation with them online or call (909) 987-0899 to learn about your cosmetic surgery options.

SkinPen® microneedling is the one treatment that just about anybody—that means you—can benefit from! No matter your gender or skin type, there are microneedling benefits you’ll want for your own skin:

• Improve fine lines & wrinkles
• Firm mild skin laxity (i.e. around the eyelids or mouth)
• Diminish acne, scars, and stretch marks
• Help to erase age spots, sun damage, melasma, and hyperpigmentation
• Reduce pore size

Not only are the results stunning, but here are 7 other reasons your complexion can seriously benefit from regular microneedling treatments.

1. Collagen induction is safe for any and every skin type

Collagen is the protein that makes your skin plump and young-looking, and elastin allows your skin to stretch and bounce back. Without fail, SkinPen induces collagen and elastin production—the #1 way to improve skin’s natural appearance. The benefits of collagen and elastin are universal, so whether your skin is dry or oily, melanin-rich or fair, microneedling is effective and safe.

The benefits of collagen and elastin are universal, no matter your skin type or tone.” & “A regimen of collagen-restoring treatments is the key to ageless, firm skin.

2. SkinPen® gives you totally natural rejuvenation

SkinPen relies on collagen induction therapy, a natural process that involves triggering your body’s own repair mechanisms. SkinPen does this by using hair-like, sterile needles (12, to be exact) to penetrate the skin at a microscopic level and make “micro-injuries” which encourage the body to supply collagen to “heal” the skin.

This means SkinPen does not require any added chemicals to be effective. Although we often include a booster serum in the treatment (such as salicylic acid for acne), SkinPen does not need add-ons to work. If you have sensitive or allergy-prone skin, prefer a pared-down treatment, or like your beauty to be clean and organic, microneedling is the treatment for you.

3. Treatments requires zero recovery time

Compared with lasers or other collagen-inducing treatments, there’s little to no downtime after SkinPen. One session takes about 30 minutes, is somewhat uncomfortable but not painful, and leaves your skin looking redder than normal (as though you had a mild sunburn). You can go ahead and resume normal activities, wearing sunscreen to protect your vulnerable skin and waiting 24 hours to apply makeup. The redness will be gone in a few days, and you’ll start seeing smaller pores and renewed firmness after about a week.

4. Gorgeous-looking celebrities use it

Wondering how to get Instagram-worthy skin? Just look at Jennifer Aniston and Angelina Jolie, both of whom are rumored to be disciples of microneedling. Rumor or not, we know for a fact that their youthful, plump, and ageless skin requires a regimen of collagen-restoring treatments in order to remain firm. And of the collagen-promoting treatments available, SkinPen is the one that requires the least downtime.

5. SkinPen works anywhere on the body—hands, stretch marks, you name it!

SkinPen’s benefits aren’t limited to the face. SkinPen is commonly used on hands, as well, and is an ideal treatment for diminishing the appearance of stretch marks or scars (even surgical scars), wherever they are on your body.

For best results with more intensive issues—like stretch marks, acne scars, and deep wrinkles—be sure to schedule a consistent series of SkinPen treatments, as you will need anywhere from 3 to 7 sessions to optimize results and see a more dramatic change.

6. Microneedling can enhance other treatments

Thanks to the microchannels that SkinPen creates, the surface of your skin will be especially receptive to products for a short period of time following treatment. Whether we include a high-potency serum with the microneedling, follow up your treatment with a specialty facial, or you continue to use your medical-grade skincare products, they will be more effective than if they were applied on their own.

7. It’s a cost-effective way to boost collagen

Microneedling session costs begin around $200. This is very cost-effective rejuvenation, compared with medical-quality skincare products and other collagen-inducing treatments, such as lasers, which typically cost at least $1,000 for a single treatment session.

Ready for your best skin ever? Visit Ahava Medspa in Rancho Cucamonga for professional microneedling.

At Ahava Medspa by Inland Cosmetic Surgery, we offer proven treatments and skincare products, as well as a range of cosmetic procedures at Inland Cosmetic Surgery. No matter your concern, we have a range of options to help you get your best skin ever! Call 909-987-0899 or contact us online to schedule your appointment or consultation at our Rancho Cucamonga practice.

When it was FDA-approved in 2019, Renuvion made history as a tool that can effectively tighten mild to moderate loose skin without excisional lift surgery. For the first time, areas that used to require surgical skin tightening for rejuvenation—such as the aging neck area, or “turkey neck,” that we all seem to eventually develop—can, in many cases, be remedied without surgery.

Renuvion is a minimally-invasive surgery, combining many of the benefits you expect from non-invasive treatments, such as a short recovery and no stitches, with results that rival traditional cosmetic surgery—it’s that effective. In today’s blog, we’ll explain how this versatile new procedure works, plus everything you need to know if you’re considering undergoing Renuvion for skin tightening in your neck or other area of the body.

Renuvion stimulates collagen production to firm and tighten skin

During the Renuvion skin tightening procedure, the Renuvion wand is inserted beneath the skin through a 5mm incision (about the size of a pencil eraser). This is a similar incision to the one you would have with liposuction. The wand emits strong radiofrequency (RF) energy, which contracts the collagen in your skin and tones fat deposits.

Your recovery will be shorter thanks to cooling helium plasma

As the RF works magic on your skin’s elasticity, prompting both an immediate contraction and a long-term increase in collagen production, helium plasma follows almost instantly to cool the treatment area and eliminate any lingering heat. This cold plasma ensures that the skin is heated by the strong RF energy just long enough to cause maximum collagen production, but not so long that the heat might cause unnecessary damage. In this way, Renuvion gives you the maximum benefits from RF energy.

Renuvion is versatile, and can be used throughout the body

While Renuvion is making a big splash as one of the first non-surgical neck rejuvenation procedures, it is incredibly versatile and can be used throughout the body. Like with any lifting surgery, such as a facelift, Renuvion allows your surgeon to use their artistry to tighten skin in the area where it’s needed with this precise wand. This minimally-invasive procedure is also an alternative to surgery for those who need effective tightening in a small, specific area, such as around the navel or along the bra line.

Here are many of the areas where we commonly use Renuvion to tighten skin and tone small fat deposits:

• Eyes and eyelids
• Brow area
• Jowls
• Chest
• Upper arms
• Back and bra line
• Flanks
• Stomach
• Thighs

How Renuvion compares with other RF and energy-based cosmetic procedures

Compared with non-invasive and other minimally invasive skin tightening, Renuvion is often a superior choice for a number of reasons:

• While other RF energy-based treatments work in a similar way, the cooling effect of helium plasma allows Renuvion to employ stronger RF energy.
• Helium plasma makes the highly effective treatment gentle and leads to an even easier recovery than you’d have with the same level of RF energy treatment without helium plasma for cooling.
• Since the RF is applied beneath the skin, rather than topically, its effects are much more potent than those you would have from topical RF treatment.
• Compared with topical ultrasound-based treatment, which can require a second follow-up treatment for tangible results, Renuvion is more efficient, requiring only one treatment for results that rival those of lift surgery.
• Renuvion is comprehensive, both tightening skin and toning underlying fat deposits. Ultrasound-based skin tightening treatment, like Ultherapy, can only tone the skin, leaving you with a less-than-satisfactory result.

Renuvion vs. cosmetic surgery

If you are weighing Renuvion against a surgical lift, know that both are incredibly effective, but they address skin laxity in different ways. Renuvion works by promoting collagen production in the skin, causing the skin to tighten and promoting a youthful, plump quality in the skin.

Renuvion gives you the maximum benefits from RF energy, but without the healing time required by earlier generations of RF treatment.

Surgical lifting procedures, on the other hand, involve removing excess, sagging skin and re-draping the remaining tissue to create a smooth, lifted appearance. The quality of the skin is not affected, but the area is tightened. Surgery has the ability to address almost any case of skin laxity (even severe), where Renuvion is only recommended for mild to moderate skin laxity.

The choice between Renuvion or lift surgery is best made in consultation with your cosmetic surgeon, who can evaluate your skin and help you understand the limits and possibilities of each procedure for your skin in specific. Your surgeon can also help you to compare the different recovery periods for each procedure; how recovery may work with your lifestyle can also factor into your decision.

What to expect from your Renuvion procedure

While it is minimally invasive, Renuvion treatment is a surgery. You will prepare for skin tightening as you would for any surgery: You should stop smoking at least 2 weeks before your procedure, be in general good health, and stop medications such as ibuprofen, fish oil, and other blood-thinning medications.

During the procedure, you will undergo either general anesthesia (in which you are completely asleep), local anesthesia with a sedative for relaxation, or local anesthesia alone. The choice of anesthetic is made in pre-operative visits with your surgeon, and usually depends on the size and nature of the treatment area. If you choose to have full face and neck rejuvenation with Renuvion (the equivalent of a facelift), general anesthesia is typically recommended. For an isolated area of the neck, such as below the chin, local anesthesia may be sufficient.

Following Renuvion surgery, your skin will immediately appear firmer. Some redness and bruising in the treatment area may continue for up to 4 weeks, but it is easily hidden with makeup. To ensure a healthy recovery, simply avoid vigorous exercise or physical exertion for about two weeks after surgery. Depending on your treatment area, you may also need to wear a compression garment. Soon thereafter, you should be back to all of your regular activities.

Renuvion offers the satisfaction of immediate results, but they also keep improving: for 6-12 months, you will experience additional tightening and further improvements in skin quality. Because the results develop over time, coworkers and friends may not even know that you underwent a procedure!

Consult with Dr. Haiavy or Dr. Ryan at Inland Cosmetic Surgery

I am proud of our team of knowledgeable, experienced surgeons. If you are curious about Renuvion and other cosmetic technology, we have the tools to help you rewind the clock where it matters most, at any age. Dr. Emma Ryan and I look forward to listening to your needs and developing a treatment plan that achieves the look you want. Contact us today and one of our warm and friendly concierge staff will help you set up your virtual or in-person consultation!

Sincerely,

Dr. Jacob Haiavy

While California is currently under a 4-tier process of reopening businesses and restaurants during the coronavirus pandemic, many restaurants in Rancho Cucamonga have adapted by expanding their dining rooms onto sidewalks, parking lots, and even streets. Thankfully, this increase in outdoor dining coincides with major air quality improvements in the city following this year’s ongoing wildfires.

To make the most of our city during these challenging times—and support our local restaurants—we’ve compiled a list of our 7 favorite restaurants currently open for outdoor dining.

Fall is the best time to eat outside

With the temperatures beginning to cool down, locals know that fall is one of the best seasons to be outside in Rancho Cucamonga. So get out and soak up the beautiful weather with a meal and drink safely served on one of our city’s many outdoor patios or sidewalks.

How safe is outdoor dining?

Since COVID is largely a respiratory disease, outdoor dining is much safer than indoor dining thanks to the abundance of fresh air. Restaurants are also required to follow state guidelines, including having their staff undergo health screenings prior to beginning work, wear masks while working, and perform additional sanitizing. Individual groups of guests are also spaced at least 6 feet apart from each other to ensure maximum safety.

These rules are layered on top of existing City of Rancho Cucamonga outdoor service requirements, which specify that all restaurants with outdoor dining areas must have a vehicle barrier, like a concrete wheelstop or a railing, and a visual barrier, such as a vinyl fence. Restaurants are also required to provide outdoor lighting if they serve food at night and create one-way entrances and exits to help maintain 6-foot distancing.

What sort of restrictions should I expect when dining outside?

Be prepared to pay with a debit card, credit card, or another option, such as Apple Pay™, as many restaurants aren’t accepting cash or checks during this time.

Also, some restaurants aren’t allowing the public to enter their indoor spaces, including their restrooms. Many of these restaurants have adapted by providing porta-potties and portable outdoor hand washing stations, but you may prefer to plan your bathroom trip ahead of time.

Check COVID guidelines before you go

Since COVID-19 restrictions in California are constantly changing, make sure you call these restaurants ahead of time to make sure they’re open and to ask about their COVID guidelines.

Top 7 Restaurants with Outdoor Dining in Rancho Cucamonga

Rancho Cucamonga has no shortage of delicious restaurants and bars, and thanks to the region’s mild climate, many offered outdoor dining even before the pandemic. Here’s our list of the top 7 restaurants with outdoor dining in Rancho Cucamonga:

• Brio Tuscan Grille in the Victoria Gardens Mall. This popular Italian restaurant has an extensive outdoor patio with large heaters to keep you comfortable during cooler nights. With weekly happy hours from 3-6pm and a vast wine list, Brio is the perfect place to go for your next date night or to celebrate your next anniversary or birthday. Try the Lobster and Shrimp Fettuccine with a delicate glass of Chardonnay.
• Lazy Dog Restaurant in the Ontario Mills Shopping Center. Inspired by the Rocky Mountains, this laid-back, farm-to-table restaurant is the perfect place to relax and enjoy some homestyle cooking with family and friends. The Lazy Dog prides itself on its seasonal menus, hand-picked ingredients, and wide selection of craft beers. Try the Lamb Shank Pot Pie—locally-sourced lamb slow-cooked in a housemade garlic and red wine sauce, served open face with mashed potatoes, marinated tomatoes, veggies and a salted-thyme pie crust. They also serve up an impressive weekend brunch from 9am-2pm.
• Yard House in the Victoria Gardens Mall. This high-end, classic rock-inspired sports bar offers unique twists on classic American dishes, from pizza and burgers to steaks and vegan options. The Yard House has a spacious outdoor patio and is open until 12am on weeknights and 1am on Fridays and Saturdays. Try the Poke Nachos layered with raw Ahi tuna, avocado, serrano peppers, crispy wontons, white truffle sauce, sweet soy ginger sauce, and sriracha aïoli—you won’t be disappointed. Oh, and did we mention the Yard House has the largest selection of draft beers in the world?
• Cara Mia Italian Restaurant on Vineyard Ave. After opening just a month before COVID restrictions began in Rancho Cucamonga, this delightful Italian eatery has proven incredibly resilient. Servers prepare meals in front of guests on carts brought out onto the patio for a safe and upscale dining experience. We recommend the Lobster Bisque and Baked Ravioli paired with a delicious craft cocktail.
• Fonda Don Chon in Covina. Though technically outside of Rancho Cucamonga, this authentic Mexican restaurant is well worth the drive. Enjoy tasty dishes like Steak and Shrimp and Enchiladas Rancheras, paired with house-made margaritas. What really sets this restaurant apart is their traditional Mexican breakfast; try their fresh Cafe de Olla (an authentic Mexican coffee drink) with Huevos con Chorizo, served all day, every day.
• Paul Martin’s American Grill in Victoria Gardens Mall. This upscale dinner destination has a small but robust menu, with dishes ranging from a quinoa bowl with seasonal veggies to a filet mignon with mashed potatoes. As an added bonus, your little ones will love their mac and cheese and chicken tenders. Paul Martin’s is a popular dinner spot, so be sure to make a reservation.
• Lucille’s Smokehouse Bar-B-Que in Victoria Gardens Mall. You’ll feel right at home grabbing lunch outside at this casual barbeque joint. All of Lucille’s meats are hickory-smoked for 12 hours for tender, fall-off-the-bone deliciousness. Try the Baby Back Ribs or Smoked Half Chicken with an order of Southern Fried Dill Pickles. Yum!

Want more outdoor dining options?

This list will get you out enjoying the town and supporting local businesses in Rancho Cucamonga, but if you want to take advantage of all of the great outdoor dining that the Inland Empire has to offer, check out this extensive list compiled by the Press-Enterprise.

We hope you’ve enjoyed hearing about our staff’s local dining favorites. Eat well and stay safe out there!

Many of us love to follow celebrities: peeking into their glamorous lifestyles is by turns entertaining and inspiring. Their good looks are also entrancing, and seeing Selena or Reese at home during quarantine has proven they can look equally good in sweats as they do on the red carpet.

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A post shared by Selena Gomez (@selenagomez) on Mar 30, 2020 at 7:07pm PDT

While a few people are simply “born with it,” it’s important to keep in mind that achieving a celebrity’s perfected look usually involves visiting a cosmetic surgeon’s office. And when it comes to the A-list actor and mom appearing with a washboard-flat belly after baby number 3, or a 60-something male lead with a jawline that is still as chiseled as a 30-year-old’s, it’s easy to guess that is the case—but what about the celebs who never seem to have anything done, or age?

Celebrities gradually looking better and better (versus aging like mere mortals) speaks to having frequent, subtle procedures—including options like RF treatments, dermal fillers, Botox, and fat transfer—versus having a major surgical procedure to make up for decades of aging in one operation. Our three SoCal-based cosmetic surgeons have decades of combined experience with the full range of aesthetic treatments and technology and are here to give a rundown on the procedures we believe top celebrities are getting.

How stars get taut, firm skin without surgery

The qualities of a 20-something’s skin that we all covet are due in large part to the ample collagen in their tissue. Instead of letting that firmness wane with time, we are quite sure that many stars are reaching for radio-frequency (RF) skin tightening technologies such as Exilis™ and Ultherapy. These RF treatments use thermal energy to heat the skin’s deeper layers. This process stimulates collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid production, which reduces the appearance of fine lines and tightens loose skin—all without any visible scarring or noticeable weeks away from the paparazzi.

While lip fillers get more press, we think cheek fillers are also a favorite tool for those who make the magazine covers. Having firm, plump cheeks not only helps one look younger, but it also reflects light into the eyes, providing extra sparkle. While typical patients might choose to get the cheek filler results they want all in one go and have repeat injections only after results have clearly faded, a celebrity hoping to keep their regimen on the down-low will approach it differently. They may instead choose to have a series of subtle cheek filler treatments until they gradually achieve the look they prefer, ensuring they don’t make tabloid gossip with a sudden and noticeable change.

Another hallmark of celebrity-level good looks is dewy skin—and regular skin resurfacing treatments are key. It used to be that skin resurfacing required weeks out of the public eye, but technological advances have given us tools like the Excel V+ Laser and the ICON Aesthetic System Laser, which uses a more gentle combination of intense pulsed light (IPL) and non-ablative laser resurfacing to achieve dramatic improvements. Given it tackles fine lines & wrinkles, sun damage, hyperpigmentation, and even stretch marks, we’re fairly sure some celebrities are taking advantage of these myriad benefits.

Surgical treatments the stars reach for

Dr. Jacob Haiavy doesn’t doubt that the stars we admire for their flawless figures also visit the operating room. “The ones with beautiful results you’d never pick up on are clearly working with talented cosmetic surgeons,” he says. “It’s often only the poor results that get noticed.”

While surgical procedures require more downtime, stars get away with planning these between concert tours and movie shoots. (And they are worth the time off because their results are dramatic and long-lasting.) Here are some likely favorites.

Fat transfer is a surgical procedure you might not realize many celebrities have had—unless you know exactly what to look for. Cosmetic surgeon Dr. Emma Ryan says, “I’ve seen enough patients over the years to know that fat pockets exist in certain spots on nearly everyone, yet lots of celebs have no fat around the bra band or near the upper armpit.” We can infer they’re seeing a qualified cosmetic surgeon for liposuction and having that fat put to good use by reinjecting it to plump up areas of the face where they want more volume. Fat injections also work well to add volume to the upper breast area or butt. Celebrities using this tactic can even claim they are “all natural”—what could be more natural than your own fat?

Celeb moms who’ve had several children yet still have a taut stomach are very likely to have had some form of a tummy tuck. Some moms are even opening up about the procedures they’ve had done: Cardi B revealed that she had work done on her breasts and midsection after birthing her daughter, Kulture. “I hope more moms start sharing their experiences to show they too cope with the effects of childbearing on the body,” says Inland Cosmetic Surgery’s Dr. Emma Ryan. She adds, “Thankfully, people are already realizing moms deserve a break from gossip when it comes to restoring the body after childbirth.”

What about the men with incomparable abs? Advanced forms of liposuction such as 4D High-Def Body Contouring are likely at work. This ultrasound-assisted liposuction precisely removes fat without damaging the surrounding skin, muscle, and nerve tissue, so it can be used to sculpt detailed areas and reveal muscle tone.

We’ve got you covered in Rancho Cucamonga

Looking for red-carpet worthy results? Our comprehensive cosmetic medical practice serves patients in Rancho Cucamonga, the Inland Empire, and other areas of Southern California. Patients love us for our complete range of cosmetic medicine services, including all of the above celeb-secret procedures. Our talented team of caring cosmetic surgeons and top-notch estheticians are here to help you feel and look your best! Call us at 909-987-0899 to request a consultation or contact us online to get started. We’d love to hear from you!

Join us for a special online Ultherapy event!

We’re throwin’ a virtual party, and we’d love for you to come along! You’re invited to a special Ultherapy educational session to learn more about one of our favorite technologies for non-surgical skin tightening.

The event is free to attend and will last about 30 minutes. We’ll cover all the ins and outs of this popular option, including how it works, what it does, and what type of results you can expect, as well as answer any questions you may have!

Inland Cosmetic Virtual Ultherapy Event

April 30th @ 12pm PST

The first 5 patients to RSVP will receive 20 units of XEOMIN for free!

Fill out the form below to RSVP