Dr Ravi Jain

Lose 2 dress sizes in 6 months with Vaser Lipo!

2010-11-30T00:22:00.000-08:00

Before Vaser Lipo

After Vaser Lipo

With 2010 drawing to an end, and 2011 just around the corner, it is that time of year when we start to think about making those dreaded New Year’s resolutions. Many women, and men, start the New Year with the resolution to try and lose weight and tone up, but no matter how hard they try, for some it is just the beginning of an endless and disappointing struggle. But, as one of many of Riverbanks’ satisfied patients shows, the answer to combating the flab is VASER Lipo.

Stella, a 24 year old civil servant from Buckinghamshire, is one of the latest Riverbanks’ successful case studies. Stella came to Riverbanks to have VASER Lipo 6 months ago, after struggling to lose weight and tone the tummy, hips and thigh area. Like many women, Stella was unhappy with her pear-shaped body, and decided that VASER Lipo was the right solution to help get a slimmer shape.

Just 6 months on, Stella has contacted Riverbanks to say that she has since lost a whopping 2 dress sizes, and that her new clothes are still failing off her. Not expecting to lose this much weight, especially so quickly, needless to say Stella is chuffed with her new figure, just in time for the party season.

You too could get a healthier and sleeker body shape with the help of VASER Lipo. Used by well-respected surgeons all over the world, VASER Lipo uses ultrasound energy to dissolve fatty cells, allowing for a more gentle suction and accurate sculpting techniques.

So, make 2011 the year you achieve your dream body with the help of VASER Lipo, and be a part of your very own success story. Tackling those hard to slim and tone areas of the body, from double chins to lumpy legs, this advanced liposuction technique can reshape your body –and your life.

Make acne scars a thing of the past with SmartXide Dot 2

2010-10-01T00:01:00.000-07:00

Most of us know what it’s like to suffer from Acne scars, they ruin your teenage years at the time, only to follow you into adult hood as scars!

Looking in the mirror everyday and ploughing foundation on, then lathering the powder to try and cover them up, only resulting in walking around looking like a pot-holed umpalumpa! It seems that there is just no way of escaping them!

Well, in that case you’re wrong, as there is a way to banish those ugly scars for good! Leaving you with a newly perfect, pot-hole free face, which then needs a considerably less amount of make-up, leaving you being the natural beauty you always dreamt of being! Ahh, bliss!

Well if that sounds like the thing for you, then SmartXide Dot 2 is just the thing for you. With the procedure consisting of having your face numbed , then treated with the laser a few times, the pain is almost completely minimal and the procedure lasts less than half an hour itself!

You may be a little red for a while, but it’s all worth it in the end when you can run your fingers down your cheeks without being reminded of your acne scars.

So, trot yourself down to your nearest clinic for the procedure of a lifetime! After a few weeks the name calling of ‘pizza face’ and the likes will be dead and buried and you’ll be able to leave everyone awestruck of your flawless facade!

See the video below to find out more, then get in touch!

Dermal fillers & Azzalure take years off your face - and we'll take 10% off!

2010-09-22T12:28:00.000-07:00

SAVE 10% on Tuesday 28th Sept

We have some limited availability with Dr Jonquille Chantrey on Tuesday 28th September between 12-8pm for all injectable and TCA Peel treatments.

Whats more, we will even knock 10% off our super Injectable complete solution package detailed below.

Injectable Complete Solutions

Quite often, by combining dermal fillers to restore lost volume and Azzalure (Botulinum Toxin) injections to lift and reduce wrinkles, you can take more years off your face when compared to just using fillers or Azzalure.

As facial artists it allows our doctors to really optimise your treatments and give you the best possible outcome as well.

So from now on, when you have Botulinum Toxin (Azzalure) treatments and dermal fillers (Restylane, Juvederm Ultra or Radiesse) at the same appointment, we will knock £100 off our usual price!

Before	After 6 sessions

WATCH YVE'S TREATMENT IN THIS VIDEO!

Have Azzalure & Fillers on the same day - SAVE £100

EXAMPLES	FULL PRICE	PACKAGE PRICE
1 Area Btx + Restylane	£550	£450
2 Areas Btx + Restylane	£630	£530
3 Areas Btx + Perlane	£710	£610
1 Area Btx + Cheek Enhancements	£800	£700

On Tuesday 28th September with Dr Jonquille Chantrey only, we will knock a further 10% off the above prices.
(Limited availability)

BOOK NOW
to avoid disappointment

Call our friendly team now on

01582 762 877

and book your consultation Dr Chantrey
or make an enquiry here

Aren't you just doing Vaser Lipo Training for the money?

2010-09-07T00:05:00.000-07:00

Vaser lipo training in Poland

It's a valid question, and one we feel we can answer honestly - No.

Dr Ravi Jain is an approved Vaser trainer, and the only centre in the UK & Europe to run DVD, Online Training as well as hands on Vaser experience at Riverbanks Clinic.

Training surgeons and doctors of all levels, all training is 1-2-1 with Dr Jain. And as he says:

We don't do this to profit. We do this to make sure that Vaser is used properly, and surgeons are trained properly. It's for the benefit of the patients.

Our Vaser training is becoming more and more popular with doctors and surgeons in the UK and Europe - if you would like to find out more about making things better for the patients by taking up some training, contact us now.

Vaser Liposelection Training - testimonials from delegates

2010-08-26T00:32:00.000-07:00

Vaser Liposelection is a procedure that reduces the fatty deposits that patients find hard to shift with dieting and exercise.

Dr Ravi Jain has been at the leading edge of this procedure in the UK and due to his excellent results and experience, Sound Surgical Technologies appointed him as a fully certified trainer for all of Europe.

To find out more about Vaser Liposelection Training, visit our main website.

To see what our delegates have had to say, read on!

"It was great to have had you here. The VASER was good too and you made the training feel like a meeting of old friends. It was an honour to have you here. Your expert and profesional approach to aesthetic surgery made us feel that the VASER is the only solution for lipolysis. It was also personally comforting to be able to relate to someone who also understands the relentless hours spent to fulfill a dream."

Dr Henryk Mekle, Katowice, Poland

"I thought I should drop a line to say thanks for the great day I had last week. I learnt a lot from you (not just about VASER) and I truly appreciate you going out of your way to answer questions and give advice."

Dr PM, Gwent

"The whole experience of Vaser training at Riverbanks was great as you have great premises. Ravi spent a lot of time going through the basics and made sure every small detail was covered including how to perform a consultation and follow-up. He was very supportive so that helped to calm down any nervousness one may have on the day of training and he also provided regular guidance even after the training whilst I gained more experience. So overall a terrific experience and highly recommended. Excellent, comprehensive, I would strongly recommend the course to anyone interested in learning the skills of vaserlipo."

Dr Puneet Gupta, The Private Clinic

For more details on Vaser Lipo training, please call 01582 762877 or contact Mrs Banu Roe.

Getting rid of cellulite and more with Riverbanks Clinic

2010-08-19T00:35:00.000-07:00

Everyone gets it and no-one likes it, but if your cellulite is making your life hell, we can help. Maybe it's your saddlebags that are making your life a misery and spoiling your look, or you find yourself wearing trousers all the time because wearing skirts makes your thighs rub together? Or it could just be threadveins on your legs that you're unhappy about.

Well, whatever your issue - we'd love to chat to you!

You could consider the following treatments:

Unwanted fat - consider Vaser Liposelection and Accent Radio Frequency Skin Tightening
Stretch marks - consider Accent Radio Frequency Skin Tightening with SmartXide DOT Laser Skin Resurfacing
Loose skin - consider Accent Radio Frequency Skin Tightening
Cellulite - consider Accent Radio Frequency Skin Tightening
Threadveins - Consider Sclerotherapy

Don't suffer - give us a call now on 01582 762877!

Hand treatments at Riverbanks Clinic

2010-08-17T00:26:00.000-07:00

Much has been made in the press recently about stars and celebrities that look younger than they are, until you get to their hands.

Hands can give away a woman's age like no other part of the body - you can't hide them beneath makeup and they're always on show. And no-one want to wear gloves 24/7!

Riverbanks Clinic can help with wrinkled looking hands, in a few ways:

Sculptra - with Sculptra you would need to have 3 sessions, and the results would show within 6 months. The treatment lasts 2-3 years.
Radiesse - our miracle wrinkly hand treatment! ONE session. INSTANT results! Lasts about 1 year.
SmartXide - more for pigmentation than wrinkles, you can find out more about this on our main website.

So don't suffer wrinkly hands - the rest of you looks fab, give your hands a treat too!

And don't forget to

Stomach & Tummy treatments at Riverbanks Clinic

2010-08-12T00:12:00.000-07:00

It's Summer, a traditional time to be baring our tummies, but let's face it, if your stomach doesn't look as good as you'd like it to, you're not likely to want to get it out, now are you?

Common stomach problems are:

Unwanted fat - consider Accent and/or Vaser Lipo-selection
Stretch marks - consider Accent with SmartXide
Loose skin - consider Accent
Post pregancy deformities - consider Accent

If you have a problem with your tummy area, and want it fixed fast, then why not find out more by clicking the links above, and then get in touch with Dr Ravi Jain?

Breast enhancements and treatments from Riverbanks Clinic

2010-08-10T00:07:00.000-07:00

At Riverbanks Clinic we believe that it is critical our clients are comfortable in their skin, and that includes, naturally, the bosom area.

For breast enhancement and enlargement, Dr Jain wholeheartedly recommends Macrolane - performed by the best, Jonquille Chantrey.

Macrolane is the first ever body shaping treatment to harness the benefits of hyaluronic acid to naturally add volume and help you regain your womanly contours. It mimics the benefits of breast surgery but is completely non-invasive, meaning no pain, no scarring and no need for a general anaesthetic or overnight hospital stay.

Benefits of Macrolane breast enhancement:

No Surgery – No Scars
Takes Only 30-45 minute – Walk In/Walk Out
Requires Only a Local Anaesthetic – Low Risk
Minimal Recovery Time – Little or No Bruising
Biodegradable Substance - Further Minimising Risk
Rapid Results – Buy a New Bra on the Way Home
Natural Look – Natural Feel

If you would like to receive further information about Macrolane including our prices, please fill out the form here and we will send details over to you.

Neck and jowl treatments from Riverbanks Clinic

2010-07-13T06:28:00.000-07:00

There are a lot of people out there suffering from neck and jowl issues, who spend a lot of money on face creams but ignore this vital part of the body. Nothing says 'aging' like saggy jowls or a wrinkly neck!

Thanks to recent technological advances, here at Riverbanks, Dr Ravi Jain is now happy to offer you non-surgical treatment options which can help improve the appearance of necks and jowls.

For sagging jowls, take a look at:

Dermal fillers

Sculptra - collagen stimulator

Accent Radio Frequency Skin Tightening

VASER Liposelection

All of these can help tighten and firm up the skin, improve jaw smoothness and reduce saginess of jowls.

For neck bands and wrinkles, consider:

A treatment of botox

SmartXide DOT therapy (laser re-surfacing)

Both will help with neck bands and wrinkles and leave you with younger looking, rejuvenated skin.

Lip enhancements from Riverbanks Clinic

2010-07-06T03:26:00.000-07:00

As we get older, or succumb to the effects of hormonal changes, sun damage, smoking, weight loss and even dehydration, lines and wrinkles begin to form around our mouth. It can be hard to disguise these lines since make-up will in fact ‘leak’ into the crevices for an accentuated, aging effect.

Smoking makes this worse as it causes free radicals, which damage the skin in this area.

We can improve the outline, shape and size of your lips, and help to smooth out lip creases with the following treatments:

Restylane

Juvéderm® Ultra

Botox

SMARTXIDE.

Want to have beautiful lips this summer? Contact us now to find out more!

Nose mouth and chin treatments from Riverbanks Clinic

2010-07-02T04:15:00.000-07:00

This is the part of the face most affected by smoking as smoking causes free radicals which weaken the skin.

But it's not just smokers who suffer around the nose, mouth and chin - as we age, and our cheeks lose their support infrastructure, peripheral lines become more pronounced.

So, for lines around the mouth, look at:

Radiesse

For nose to mouth lines, consider:

For chin creases think about:

To discuss your options and find out more, contact us now for a no obligation chat - you don't have to put up with those lines anymore!

Treatments for the cheeks from Riverbanks Clinic

2010-07-01T04:43:00.000-07:00

It's natural to lose facial volume as we age, whether it's due to fluctuations in our weight, exposure to stress and even facial wrinkles. But sometimes it's just a sign of aging, and one that you can avoid!

Sagging, lined cheeks can give the effect of dragging the overall facial expression downward, creating a melancholy effect which can be very aging.

Cheek Lines and Wrinkles and Facial Sagging

Whatever your age or disposition, we can help you restore and rejuvenate your mid-face appearance using dermal fillers such as Restylane SubQ or Radiesse. Treatment lasts for up to a year and results are subtle and completely natural-looking.

Alternatively, Sculptra provides a valuable support structure within the actual skin itself, to help create the effects of a face-lift without any need for surgery. These noticeable, highly effective results can last for as long as 3 years, and are given as a course of treatments, each 4 – 6 weeks apart. Most people need 3 treatments.
You don't have to put up with droopy cheeks and lines and wrinkles - contact us now and have a chat through your options!

Treatment for the eyes and eyebrows from Riverbanks Clinic

2010-06-29T03:31:00.000-07:00

Continuing our series of blogs on Top to Toe treatments, today it's the turn of the eyes and eyebrows.

They say that the eyes are the window to the soul - well we're not sure about that but we do know that if your eyes look bright and clear, you look younger, happier and more carefree than when they're downturned, droopy and wrinkled!

So here are some eye treatments you may want to consider if you don't quite feel your best!

Crows Feet

Sometimes called laughter lines, let's be honest, there's nothing that funny about them!

Consider:

SmartXide DOT therapy

Dermal fillers

Priori AAHA Eye Serum

Idebenone Eye Serum

Tear Troughs

The natural ageing process means that we all eventually develop tear troughs in the grooves below our eyes. However, sometimes we develop these grooves prematurely. This can often be a genetic factor.

Take a look at:

Dermal fillers such as Restylane and Juvéderm® Ultra

Sculptra

Our range of high-quality eye serums

Frown Lines

There are two types of ‘frown’ lines commonly present between the eyebrows: those that only appear with expression (dynamic), and those that are present all the time (static).

For dynamic frown lines think about:

Botox

For static frown lines you'll need:

Dermal fillers such as Restylane or Juvéderm® Ultra

Eyebrow Lifts

Gone are the days when you needed surgery to lift your eyebrows for a fresher, more alert look. These days, both botox and dermal fillers such as Restylane or Juvéderm®Ultra can be used, with highly effective results.

For more info on eyebrow lifts see our eyebrow lifts page on our main website.

Want to find out more about eye treatments at Riverbanks Clinic? Contact us now and we'd love to answer your questions!

photo credit just keep drawing

Treatments for the forehead from Riverbanks Clinic

2010-06-24T10:00:00.000-07:00

Summer is here, but it's still not too late to be looking fab!

Whatever you're looking to improve about your body, it's more than likely we can help you - and you'll still have time to parade on the beach or by the pool!

Head to toe, our treatments will make you feel a million dollars!

In this, the first of a series of blogs, we'll concentrate on the forehead - often the first place to show signs of aging.

Treatments for the Forehead

If you're bothered by forehead wrinkles, frownlines and permanent creases, then why not take a look at:

Botox

Dermal fillers

Medical Microdermabrasion

If it's uneven pigmentation that's a worry then:

Advanced L.A. peels

Intense Pulsed Light

Idebenone Superceuticals

Laser Skin Resurfacing

And if acne scars are a bother then take a look at:

Dermal fillers

Laser Skin Resurfacing

Acne itself can be helped by:

Priori Skin Perfection Gel

Omnilux Medical Light Therapy

Advanced L.A. Skin Peels

Vitage Skin Care

Whatever your forehead problems, we have a treatment for you, and will soon have you looking and feeling like a million dollars! To find out more, get in touch!

img credit: y2.d40

Ditch your droopy eyes with new ‘Madonna Lift’

2010-05-28T01:22:00.000-07:00

They say the eyes are the window to the soul, but thousands of women dread looking in the mirror and hide their face behind long hair because they are embarrassed by their droopy eyelids. But thanks to award-winning cosmetic clinic Riverbanks, you can now wave goodbye to saggy eye syndrome without having to opt for a surgical eye-lift by choosing to have the ‘Madonna Lift’ instead.

Riverbanks Clinic in Bedfordshire is the first in the country to be offering the ‘Madonna Lift’, a revolutionary new treatment designed to tackle droopy eyelids without the need for needles or surgery.

The treatment uses SmartXide DOT Fractional C02 Laser to stimulate collagen growth around the eyes, reduce the appearance of wrinkles and lift up the eyebrows, giving the appearance that the eye is more open.

The treatment takes a matter of minutes and there is virtually no downtime. Most patients need to have 3-5 sessions to see noticeable results. The treatment costs £500 per session and can last for 2-3 years when combined with a good skincare routine.

Dr Ravi Jain, Medical Director of Riverbanks Clinic believes that the treatment could revolutionise the way patients manage their anti-ageing care and could help reduce the frequency of ‘emotionally fuelled’ visits to their cosmetic practitioner for premature top up treatments.

“The eyes are the one thing that people focus on when interacting with someone and it is also one of the first things we notice when we look at ourselves in the mirror. Droopy eyelids can have a huge impact on a person’s confidence and they are often driven to have other treatments such as Botox and fillers to try and improve the area around the eyes, but it never really tackles the problem. The ‘Madonna Lift’ gets right to the root of the problem and literally opens up the eye area, giving an instantly younger and smoother result,” says Dr Jain.

Dr Jain believes the Madonna Lift may become as popular a treatment for the out of town clinic as the revolutionary fat-reduction procedure Vaser. Dr Jain is vastly experienced in Vaser and teaches doctors and surgeons all over Europe in the technique. The clinic also offers maintenance treatments such as Botox, fillers and skin peels.

ENDS

Notes to Editor
The multi award-winning Riverbanks Clinic is one of the UK’s leading clinics for non-surgical cosmetic and dermatological treatments. The prestigious Riverbanks Clinic helps men and women to turn back the clock, with the help of the very latest safe, non-surgical, highly effective anti-aging skin treatments. The clinic also specialises in treating skin problems such as acne and Roseaca. The most popular treatments offered by Riverbanks Clinic include Vaser Lipo, Botox, Dermal Fillers, Sculptra, Smartlipo, Smartxide DOT Laser and Accent Radiofrequency.

For more information visit www.riverbanksclinic.co.uk

Dr Ravi Jain is available for press interviews, articles and features. For further details, hi-res images or to arrange an interview with Dr Jain, please contact Amy Larman on 01603 477 949 or email press@riverbanksclinic.co.uk

Why should your Dermaroller Practitioner be trained and authorised?

2010-05-14T04:26:00.000-07:00

Dermaroller Therapy is a procedure which can give you younger, fresher, healthier looking skin. The procedure itself uses hundreds of micro needles to encourage growth of the dermis. It's these needles that cause the skin to regenerate, thus resulting in fresh skin. This procedure is something that must be carried out by a professional expert that's trained.

If your Dermaroller Therapy is carried out by anyone that's not trained or authorised you could cause serious harm to your skin. The procedure may look simple and you might even be tempted to carry it out at home. However, there is a very specific technique which is required. There's a great deal of science behind Dermaroller Therapy so you need to know how to use it properly.

So, if you're thinking of having Dermaroller Therapy have you thought about where you'll have it done? Are the practitioners at your nearest clinic trained and authorised to use the device and procedure? These are very important questions which you must answer before initiating any medical treatment.

How the treatment works

The results of smoother, brighter, healthier younger looking skin are achieved by encouraging the dermis to regenerate cells. The Dermaroller head will create approx 300 micro medical needle channels per cm² into the dermis of the skin. The needles are specifically targeted to reach the nerve cells and other areas which are responsible for new skin growth.

Effective treatment will involve pin point bleeding and there will be slight swelling across the area being treated. A local anaesthetic will be used to create a numbing effect so the procedure is a pleasant experience. In most cases the procedure is repeated 3 times over a 6 week period.

Training is thorough

For practitioners to be able to carry out the therapy they are required to attend thorough training. There is a lot of science regarding the skin and how cells are produced. The practitioner will need a comprehensive understanding of how the treatment works and the correct technique to use in order to achieve the most effective results.

The Dermaroller procedure can even be used on delicate areas around the mouth, the eyes and even on the eye lids. This is something that requires great skill along with experience. Practitioners are highly trained to carry out the procedure and will also be able to offer you advice if you're unsure whether the treatment is right for you.

Do you want beautiful results?

Ultimately, the reason you want the treatment is to achieve healthy, fresh, younger looking skin. However, these results will only be achievable if a trained and authorised practitioner is administering the treatment. It might be tempting to use someone cheaper or even try it at home. But, do you really want to risk it?

A trained and authorised practitioner will know how to give you the healthy skin you're after. They can also let you know if the treatment isn't suitable for you. This is advice that you want to listen to and understand.

If you would like to find out more about Dermaroller micro-needling, contact us at Riverbanks Cinic on 01582 762877

Vaser lipo review - testimonial from a happy patient!

2010-04-17T00:48:00.000-07:00

"For as long as I can remember my body has been pear shaped and very out of proportion with my small waist.

After doing some research on liposuction i came across vaser liposuction and it really sounded ideal.

I went on a hunt looking for a good doctor and after meeting with 3 doctors, from the moment I walked in to the Riverbanks Clinic I knew I would be well looked after.

Dr Jain was very realistic and put my mind at ease with the procedure.

I went ahead and had vaser done on both my thighs and flanks. There was literally no pain at all during the procedure and if I had to describe it, the word I would use is it was weird! It felt as though someone was building something under my skin but it really was not painful in any way.

The results were immediate and I was absolutely over the moon. I remember walking in to Dr Jains office and saying I literally want the sides of my body taken off to give myself a nice smooth shape, not so pear like - this is exactly what Dr Jain did for me and the results surpassed my expectations by a million.

All my clothes are looking incredible on, I no longer have the dreaded 'muffin top' and I feel absolutely wonderful.

I could never have achieved these results without the help of Dr Jain - no gymming or dieting would have given me what I have now. I feel even more motivated now to keep my shape and have been gyming very hard.

I am now around 2 months post vaser and the results just keep getting better. The scarring is minimal and my cellulite has reduced. I no longer have 'love handles' and I no longer have big thighs. I would like to thank Dr Jain and his team for really making a dream of mine come true. The only thing I think I think I did wrong, was not doing more areas!"

To find out more about Vaser lipo, contact Doctor Jain now!

Juvederm? In Hertfordshire or Bedfordshire?

2010-03-29T11:15:00.001-07:00

If you live in Hertfordshire or Bedfordshire, and are looking for the benefits afforded by Juvederm, then you've come to the right place!

Juvéderm^® ULTRA is an advanced, cohesive, 3D hyaluronic acid matrix dermal filler with local anaesthetic, manufactured by Allergan; the makers of Botox. It was launched in the UK in February 2008.

No allergy test is needed and the hyaluronic acid is completely broken down within the skin over a period of months, eventually leaving no trace of the filler.

Juvéderm^® ULTRA contains non-animal hyaluronic acid and lidocaine, a local anaesthetic that provides increased comfort both during and after treatment. There are three different formulations for Juvéderm^® ULTRA available which include:

Juvéderm^® ULTRA 2

A highly cross-linked formulation for the subtle correction of medium facial lines and skin depressions. Also enhances lip contour.

Juvéderm^® ULTRA 3

As above, but more versatile in contouring and volumising medium to deep facial lines and skin depressions, such as nasolabial folds. Also enhances lip contour and volume.

Juvéderm^® ULTRA 4

A highly cross-linked robust formulation for volumising and correction of deeper folds and wrinkles, including enhancing volume in the cheeks and chin. Not recommended for the areas under the eyes.

Juvéderm^® has enhanced stability and resistance to degradation by heat and the body’s metabolism, with FDA approval in the USA to ‘correct moderate to severe wrinkles and folds for up to one year’.

Call 0800 0 325415 for further information or to book an appointment.

9 Signs of Sun-Induced Skin Damage

2010-03-16T05:44:00.000-07:00

The sun is a major factor in the health of your skin. Even natural daylight causes damage to your skin and you can damage your skin even through the clouds. Taking precautions to prevent sun damage doesn’t mean that you can’t enjoy the sunshine, but it’s important to recognise that signs of sun induced skin damage can range from freckles and moles to skin cancer.

Here are the signs of sun-induced skin damage:

1. Sun spots, freckles and brown spots - these are most commonly found on the upper body, appearing on the face, neck, chest, the forearms and the hands. These spots can be unsightly, but can fairly easily be removed with the correct cosmetic treatment. Some home treatments are available, but they are less than reliable and may cause more harm than good.

2. Uneven skin colour or dark spots – confidence sapping skin colouring might seem like damage that can’t be undone, but these days they can be treated with a safe non-invasive course of IPL.

3. Explosion of Freckles – Okay, we’re not talking about a few freckles, but excessive clusters of highly visible embarrassing freckles that cover the skin and make you feel very self-conscious. IPL laser treatment would be exceptionally useful to fight this as it not only removes the brown spots but also stimulates collagen growth.

4. Age Spots - these are also known as Liver spots and are generally found on the backs of the hands. A qualified cosmetic physician would offer a number of ways that these can be reduced or removed, usually with IPL or fraction lasers .

5. Rosacea - This can be a very embarrassing condition that is comprised of prominent redness, veins in the face showing and often spots or pimples long after adolescence. An IPL/laser treatment will greatly reduce the veins and the flushing that is caused by exercise, hot food or heat.

6. Wrinkles – The sun can easily cause wrinkles or make existing wrinkles worse. There are many ways to approach the reduction of wrinkles, there are many skin creams available from pharmacists, but most are purely superficial and do little to help. A professional cosmetic physician can offer you a range of collagen boosting options from Botox and dermal fillers to resurfacing laser treatment and other complementary cosmeceutical skin care programmes.

7. Broken capillaries - often giving the face a ruddy complexion, associated with alcoholism, very embarrassing, particularly for women. Speak to your cosmetic specialist for ways to treat this problem, usually with ND:YAG laser or IPL .

8. Enlarged pore size - many people don’t think about how the sun can widen and enlarge the pores in your skin, giving a quite unsightly appearance to the skin, a little like an orange peel. Your cosmetic physician would almost certainly offer you an excellent range of treatments including laser skin resurfacing to bring a youthful look back to your skin.

9. Sagging skin - after the sun has damaged your skin, you may find that it causes your lifeless skin to sag. This is common in people as they hit their 30s but is more often found in people of middle age. With a non-surgical, non-invasive cosmetic treatment, you can improve the tautness of the skin and give it a rejuvenated appearance.

Want to fix the signs of sun induced skin damage?

Call Riverbanks Clinic on 01582 762877 or make an enquiry.

9 Signs of Sun-Induced Skin Damage

2010-03-13T00:41:00.000-08:00

Here are the signs of sun-induced skin damage:

Sun spots, freckles and brown spots - these are most commonly found on the upper body, appearing on the face, neck, chest, the forearms and the hands. These spots can be unsightly, but can fairly easily be removed with the correct cosmetic treatment. Some home treatments are available, but they are less than reliable.

Uneven skin colour or dark spots – confidence sapping skin colouring might seem like damage that can’t be undone, but these days they can be treated in a safe, non-invasive course of IPL.

Explosion of Freckles – Okay, we’re not talking about a few freckles, but excessive clusters of highly visible embarrassing freckles that cover the skin and make you feel very self-conscious. Laser treatment would be exceptionally useful to fight this as it not only removes the brown spots but also stimulates collagen growth.

Age Spots - these are also known as Liver spots and are generally found on the backs of the hands. A qualified cosmetic physician would offer a number of ways that these can be reduced or removed, usually with IPL or Fractional Lasers.

Rosacea - This can be a very embarrassing condition that is comprised of prominent redness, veins in the face showing and often spots or pimples long after adolescence. An IPL or Laser treatment will greatly reduce the veins and the flushing that is caused by exercise, hot food or heat.

Wrinkles – The sun can easily cause wrinkles or make existing wrinkles worse. There are many ways to approach the reduction of wrinkles, there are many skin creams available from pharmacists, but most are purely superficial and do little to help. A professional cosmetic physician can offer you a range of collagen boosting options from Botox and dermal fillers to resurfacing laser treatment and other suitable treatments such as complementary cosmeceutical skin care programmes .

Broken capillaries - often giving the face a ruddy complexion, associated with alcoholism, very embarrassing, particularly for women. Speak to your cosmetic specialist for ways to treat this problem- usually with ND:YAG Laser or IPL.

Enlarged pore size - many people don’t think about how the sun can widen and enlarge the pores in your skin, giving a quite unsightly appearance to the skin, a little like an orange peel. Your cosmetic physician would almost certainly offer you an excellent range of treatments including laser skin resurfacing to bring a youthful look back to your skin.

Sagging skin - after the sun has damaged your skin, you may find that it causes your lifeless skin to sag. This is common in people as they hit their 30s but is more often found in people of middle age. With a non-surgical, non-invasive cosmetic treatment, you can improve the tautness of the skin and give it a rejuvenated appearance.

Want to know more? Contact Doctor Ravi Jain now!

Dr Jain recommends the following creams to help combat the effects of sun damage:

4 ways to get rid of Thread Veins

2010-03-11T00:01:00.000-08:00

Thread veins are the tiny veins that you may see appearing on your cheeks, nose or legs. They are totally harmless to you but you may feel that they are unsightly. They are usually red but some larger veins may look blue in colour.

Many things can cause thread veins. They are a natural sign of aging but can be exacerbated by over exposure to sunlight, Rosacea, pregnancy or hormone treatment. Most people will find that they are most prominent in a certain area of their body and look at ways in which they can reduce or remove them completely.

The great thing is that there are a number of ways in which you can look to remove thread veins.

Vitamin K

For a long time now beauticians have been promoting the use of Vitamin K in topical form to treat thread veins and bruised areas. Vitamin K helps to clot blood and applied directly on to the skin can work really effectively. Vitamin K cream is often used after laser surgery as it has been shown to reduce bruising. With thread veins it assists in clotting the blood and shutting down the angry red vein that you can see. If the thread veins have been there a long time or are fairly prominent then this may not be the ideal solution.

Laser Treatment

In Laser Treatment the heat from the laser is absorbed into the vein, which causes it to stick together and seal off the blood. The disadvantages to this treatment are that only small areas can be treated at a time and there is a risk of crusting or even scarring to the skin. On the other hand, the laser is very effective when IPL fails or the vessels are bigger than 1mm across.

Sclerotherapy

This treatment is fairly common and very effective. The thread vein is injected with a solution that will cause it to collapse or stick together, sealing it off and preventing blood from flowing into it, therefore reducing the colour. It can take a number of visits and a good few months to see results using this treatment. This is often used for larger unsightly thread veins or ones that haven’t responded well to other treatments.

Intense Pulsed Light (IPL)

IPL treatments are highly effective – even in short courses. They effectively remove the damage of overly exposed skin and eradicate thread veins and scarring. The award winning Harmony IPL Laser treatment that we use is considered to be the best and most advanced treatment available for reducing thread veins, imperfections and skin damage.

With IPL a hand held until emits pulses of high intensity light that destroys any thread veins and prevents blood from flowing through.

It is relatively painless, much safer then laser treatment and gains very quick results.

If you are unhappy about the thread veins on any part of your body then we would advise you to come and speak to us. We would highly recommend the Harmony IPL treatment because of its low risk and excellent successes. If you would like to learn more about IPL or how it can help you then please get in touch.

Don’t Forget to Protect Your Skin This Summer

2010-03-03T05:18:00.000-08:00

Whether you’re heading for somewhere exotic, or planning to stay at home and make the most of the British summer, it’s important that you remember to protect your skin from the sun. It’s not just the strength of the midday sun that damages your skin, any sun or daylight can have a detrimental effect on your skin.

Try to stay out of the sun between 11am and 3pm when the sun’s rays are the strongest. If you wish to be in this sun during this time, then you should try to wear light clothing that will protect your skin. Wear wrap-around sun glasses to ensure that your eyes are not damaged by the UVA sunlight.

If you’re unable to protect yourself with clothing, then using a good quality high factor sunscreen will help to protect your skin. But don’t think that you are completely safe, just because you are wearing sunscreen, it needs reapplying regularly. You also need to use a sunscreen that is at least SPF Factor 30 . Check the use-by date, if it’s out of date, it may not offer the same protection. Don’t forget to rub the cream into every area the sun’s rays could possible touch you, don’t forget your ears and exposed areas of your head. You should always apply the cream 30 minutes before going into the sun, this gives the skin adequate time to absorb the cream. If you are swimming or sweating a lot, you’ll want to reapply the sunscreen every hour or so.

If you are planning to be in the sun over the entire summer, you should check your skin over for signs of sun damage regularly. Always look at yourself using a full length mirror and examine any existing birthmarks, moles and skin blemishes to check if their size, texture or colour has changed. If any of these have become uncomfortable or sore, it could be a sign of sun damage and you may need to check with your physician. Don’t forget that skin cancer is most treatable with an early diagnosis.

Everyone should do their utmost to protect their skin from damage. However, people with a higher risk of skin cancer should pay the most attention. This includes people who have fair skin and whose skin burns rather easily. If you already have a lot of freckles and moles, it’s a sign that you are sun-reactive and should take extra care. If you have a history of being easily burned by the sun, or you have had experience of severe sunburn, you should take care, your skin has already been damaged and may be more easily damaged in future. If you have red or fair hair, you should also take precautionary care in the sun. If you have light-coloured eyes, you should also take care to wear sunglasses that meet sun protection guidelines, rather than simply look fashionable.

But sun damage doesn’t only increase the risk of skin cancer, it also produces many unsightly skin problems that will reduce your self confidence and cause your skin to be permanently marked.

Dr Jain recommends the following creams to help combat the effects of sun damage:

Mums - get rid of stretchmarks

2010-03-01T04:01:00.000-08:00

There's nothing like the feeling of nuzzling up to your baby - soft skin, sweet smell, and those little gurgly sounds that only a newborn can make. It's the best thing about having a baby, don't you think?

But where there's a best, there's a worst- thin hair, hormonal changes bringing spots, and the dreaded stretchmarks!

Some women are really lucky - they get through pregnancy and birth and their skin just pings back into shape. The majority, however, will be left with stretchmarks, and they can be confidence destroying.

But you can get rid of them - with Dermaroller Microneedling from Riverbanks Clinic!

Dermaroller Microneedling

Dermaroller treatments use micro-medical skin-needling to roll away the imperfections and stimulate your own collagen to regenerate and repair your skin naturally.

Compared with other similar treatments you'll experience only slight redness on the first day and then your skin is back to normal, so there's no need to take time out for recovery; downtime is at a minimum. Ideally, the treatment is over three thirty minute sessions, but your initial consultation will establish exactly what your particular skin condition requires.

See some fantastic stretchmark before and after pictures below:

So if you're a mum and want to get rid of your stretchmarks, all you need to do is to make an appointment with Dr Jain and you'll be on the way to a smoother, brighter and clearer skin.

Call 01582 762 877 or Request an Appointment

Embarrassed by your moobs?

2010-02-23T03:53:00.000-08:00

As we're surrounded by images in mens' health magazines, on the internet, and pretty much everywhere we look, it's difficult to get away form society's idea of the 'perfect male body'.

Women aren't the only ones comparing their bodies to what they see in the media you know!

As a man, you're expected to laugh off any unfavourable comparisons, but that doesn't mean that you're not worried and embarrassed, deep down inside.

Man boobs, moobs, male breasts - whatever you want to call them, they're embarrassing and can be difficult to get rid of, right?

Wrong, there IS a solution.

You could, of course, have surgery – but there is a cost to that in time, discomfort and money. What you may not know is that you can remove man-boobs without surgery and go right back to work without anyone being the wiser – except they’ll think you’ve lost a few pounds and may have been working out.

The answer is Vaser Lipo – this non-invasive technique:

• Reduces the fat content – permanently,
• Tightens the skin,
• Is relatively painless,
• Has minimal recovery time (hours, rather than weeks)
• And costs less than half as much as the surgical procedure.

Getting rid of your man boobs will:

• Increase your self-esteem
• Boost your confidence
• Allow you to wear the clothes that you want
• Give you that smart, professional image that matches your performance

If you're embarrassed by your moobs, why not come in for a free consultation - what have you got to lose, apart from those embarrassing moobs?

Fed up of lipstick bleed?

2010-02-18T03:45:00.000-08:00

There's nothing worse. You've got the outift, the hair looks great, and you've spent nearly an hour putting on your make-up. You look PERFECT.

Reaching the party you grab a glass of champagne, smile, laugh and chat your way around the room, confident in the fact that you'relooking great.

And then you find a mirror. And stop. And stare at the lipstick filtering from the edge of your lips, no longer matt perfect, but spidering out and filling the 'barely there to the naked eye' wrinkles around your mouth.

It's enough to ruin an evening, isn't it?

The problem is that fine lines and wrinkles are pretty much a fact of life as we get older - and the ones around the mouth are hard to disguise as make-up just 'sinks in' to them and draws more attention!

Thankfully, there are ways to deal with them.

At Riverbanks Clinic we offer a range of treatments to help smooth out lip creases, and improve the outline, shape and size of your lips.

Lip and mouth lines can be treated with dermal fillers for an instantly revitalised look, although muscle-relaxing treatments such as botox are particularly effective ways of correcting downward-pointing mouth corners and reducing creases in the longer term.

Results can last between 6-9 months with fillers such as Restylane and Juvéderm^® Ultra, and 3 – 4 months with botox.

So if you'd like to spend an evening without hovering near a mirror, why not get in touch with us now?

Find out how to get rid of thread veins!

2010-02-14T03:35:00.000-08:00

Thread veins. Spider veins. Broken veins. Capillary veins.

No matter what you call them, if you have them then they're noticeable, and the chances are you want to get rid of them.

They most commonly appear on the cheeks, nose and legs, and they're unsightly and make you feel self conscious.

Nasal threadveins are one of the commonest complaints we see at Riverbanks Clinic in both men and women. They are often hereditary, can be caused by poor diet and environmental factors as well. However, treatment is quite simple and often instant.

We're thrilled with the latest results of our IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) treatment for thread veins, with finer veins needing just one treatment to be removed. More stubborn veins may need more treatments, but it really is an ideal way to get your self confidence back and face the world.

To find out more about thread veins and IPL, visit our website. Why not book in for your free consultation by filling in our booking form now!

Do you grind your teeth too much?

2010-02-11T03:28:00.000-08:00

It's a bit of an unfair question actually, as the majority of teeth grinders do it in their sleep.

So let's rephrase it a little:

Do you often wake up with an aching jaw each morning? If so, it could be beacuse you grind your teeth in your sleep.

Teeth grinding (or bruxism, to give it it's proper medical name) causes tension in your jaw, which can result in lack of sleep, headaches, and even reshape your jawline!

In extreme cases it can lead to costly dental repair work.

But help is at hand.

Carla Ball, 32, a children's author from London, underwent Botox treatment after suffering from tired, aching and enlarged jaw muscles for years. Her dentist failed to diagnose the problem and it was only when a friend suggested that teeth grinding or clenching might be to blame that she researched the problem.

'I used to wake up with jaw pain and headaches that got worse when I was under stress at work and really busy, but I didn't know what caused them,' she says. 'My jaw was also much wider than my cheeks, which didn't really run in my family. When I saw a consultant privately, he told me my masseter muscle was huge, possibly because of clenching and grinding. I was fortunate that my teeth hadn't been badly affected as I clenched more than ground them together. 'I had a Botox injection in the muscle on each side of my jaw and within days the tension in my jaw had stopped. I have them every six months and don't get the pain I used to have as long as I also keep the stress and tiredness under control.'

Belinda Holt, 44, from Harpenden received Azzalure^® treatments for her Bruxism which is an alternative form of Botox.

For many years I had suffered with bad headaches, sore jaw ,stiff neck and disrupted sleep as a result of teeth clenching. My first port of call was to speak to my dentist who fitted me with a mouth guard, but because my mouth/jaw was so sore I could not use it. After a consultation with Dr Jain he suggested Botox which I tried and have to say the results are fantastic! All my symptoms have disappeared and my quality of sleep has improved immensely. Thank-you Dr Jain

You don't have to suffer - teeth grinding can be fixed. For more information, talk to Dr Jain at Riverbanks Clinic; he’s an expert in the use of highly advanced and specialised techniques that will reduce the strength and size of your masseter muscles without stopping you chewing your food.

The New Moob: 90% of Male Patients Opting for New Ultrasonic Sculpting Treatment to Reduce Man Boobs

2010-02-01T07:49:00.000-08:00

A new walk in walk out ultrasonic sculpting procedure has increased demand for male breast reduction. According to figures released by Dr Ravi Jain, Medical Director of award winning Riverbanks Clinic, 90% of men who chose to undergo treatment at his clinic in 2009, opted to have their "moobs" reduced and sculpted using the life changing Vaser Ultra Sculpt treatment that allows 86% patients to go back to work within three days.

Gynecomastia, the development of abnormally large mammary glands in males is a common condition that affects up to 60% of men. Unlike traditional surgical male chest reduction, Dr Jain uses ultrasonic energy that removes unwanted fat through minimal incisions (2-3mm diameter) and enhances the visibility of the underlying musculature. Dr Jain also removes the underlying breast gland to create a flat and defined chest creating results that can usually only be achieved by undergoing major surgery that requires general anesthetic and weeks of painful recovery.

But how can the dramatic trajectory for male breast reduction be explained? Dr Jain suggests that men have been suffering in silence for many years and the decision to opt for surgery has little to do with vanity. "The average age of the men I treat is 40. They have been distressed about their condition since their teens or early 20's. Vaser Ultra Sculpt provides an effective alternative to surgery with minimal recovery time that enables them to get back to work quickly. This is the most rewarding treatment we offer because it is life changing and restores confidence that has been destroyed through years of suffering."

A Riverbanks patient who recently had the ultrasound "moob" sculpting treatment said "After researching male breast reduction surgery on the internet, I decided to opt for ultra sonic sculpting due to minimal downtime and recovery period. Also a big factor was that I was awake and able to talk to the surgeon whilst the procedure was being carried out. Since my op I have made very good progress and the results have been life changing."

Note to Editors

Dr Ravi Jain is the UK and European Trainer for Vaser Liposelection. He is Medical Director of award-winning Riverbanks Clinic one of the UK's leading clinics for non-surgical cosmetic and dermatological treatments. Dr Jain is available for media interviews and comment.

5 reasons to get rid of man boobs

2010-01-25T07:33:00.001-08:00

Manboobs are much more common than you think! Concealed under clothing, most men manage to hide away the embarrassment they feel about their shape.

Not all manboobs are due to being overweight. Most men suffering from an altered or enlarged chest have gynecomastia – the abnormal growth of mammary gland (breast) tissue. This is in fact very common. Most young boys suffer from gynecomastia during puberty but grow out of it, however some never return to normal or may develop it for the first time in later life.

There are a number of reasons you may want to think about getting rid of your manboobs.

1.It’s uncomfortable
If you are suffering from any of the types of gynecomastia then you might be finding you are in physical discomfort. The growth of glands can be painful to the touch or feel generally sensitive. Being in this kind of discomfort can put you off being touched or make you wary of people touching you. If you have a partner this can be especially difficult as you don’t want to discourage them but it can be very uncomfortable for you.

2.It all fits!
You may not realise it but you are probably wearing a shirt that is a size too big to help you ‘conceal’ these imperfections. You might have even passed up on items of clothing you really like because of the way it hugged your figure. Imagine the joy of throwing anything you like on your back without having to worry and check if you can see your chest in the folds.

3.Take your shirt off
Whether its on holiday, at the gym, in your garden or in front of your partner, there will be times when you are reluctant to go bare-chested because you are uncomfortable with the way you look. Women always moan they can’t take their shirt off in the heat and they love it when you do!! Being able to take your shirt off without concern means you won’t hide in the corner of the gym locker room, hesitate when going swimming while on holiday or worry about what your partner thinks when you take off your clothes.

4.Get your confidence back
All of the points mentioned above mean that you are spending too much time worrying or being concerned over the way you feel or the way you think you may be perceived. It’s time to get your confidence back! When you are happy in your body it really shows. You will dress, act and be more confident without these body hang-ups.

5.It’s not just you
Remember that most men have suffered with man-boobs at one point in their life. Fear isn’t a good enough reason to ignore it. You’ll be surprised how easy it is to regain your body and your confidence!

To rid yourself of your embarrassing and uncomfortable manboobs, visit www.riverbanksclinic.co.uk today or call 01582 762 877 today for a consultation.

What Causes Manboobs?

2010-01-19T01:29:00.000-08:00

Manboobs is a pretty horrible word. It is a fairly derogatory term which is usually used in a joking or ribbing fashion, but men are really sensitive about. Considering that over 60% of men will have suffered from ‘manboobs’ in their lifetime, it is almost surprising that the term is used so easily.

Most of the time we use manboobs to describe someone who is overweight and that has developed excess fat in that area, occasionally causing a drooping, breast like effect. This kind of manboob can be worked off in the gym, or treated with a cosmetic procedure.

However there is another side to the manboob – Gynecomastia. This is the abnormal growth of mammary glands or breast tissue in the chest leading to swelling and what can look like breast development.

It isn’t entirely clear why men develop gynecomastia although it is believed that it is predominantly down to hormonal changes on the body. For example, during puberty, most boys will develop gynecomastia and experience the development of breasts or swelling in the chest area. By the time they leave their teens it has usually completely disappeared – although for some it can last in to adulthood.

Some bodybuilders who take steroids or supplements may also develop manboobs from the hormonal make-up of the drugs they are taking. Men carry a small amount of the predominantly female hormone oestrogen. If the levels are raised then the body will react to it and use it in the same way as in a female body.

Before you can effectively treat manboobs it is important to know which type you suffer from. If it is pseudogynecomastia (from being overweight) then beginning an exercise regime or heading to a cosmetic physician should be enough – it is always helpful to speak to your expert when you’re concerned about your manboobs. You may find there is underlying gynemocastia there anyway which you should consider having removed for your comfort and to try to stop it from getting any worse.

If you have been taking any steroids, medication or other supplements which you think may have increased your oestrogen levels or imbalanced your hormones than it is a good idea to speak to your GP about changing doses, stopping medicating and tracking changes.

If you are still in puberty then it is most likely to ease off as you get older but if you are particularly concerned, uncomfortable or feel upset about your appearance then you should speak to someone for help. The same would go for any older men who have never been able to lose the shape they gained during puberty or who have always found themselves heavier in the chest area. There are things that can be done to help you regain your figure, your confidence and take control of your body.

If you are unsure about why you may have developed manboobs or are looking for more advice then you should speak to an expert. It is very common and it is nothing you should be concerned about or ashamed of.

Need to speak to an expert about manboobs or gynecomastia? Visit www.riverbanksclinic.co.uk or call 01582 762 877 today for a consultation.

Dermaroller and Omnilux Testimonial - Riverbanks Clinic

2010-01-07T04:00:00.000-08:00

We love getting testimonials from our clients, and we love sharing them with you, as we know that many of you visit this blog after searching for a procedure and testimonials about it in a search engine.

It always feels better when researching something such as Dermaroller and Omnilux to hear what REAL people have to say about it, doesn't it?

So we're thrilled to be able to provide you with the testimonial of one of our recent clients, Hilary Winters, and her story in her words:

"I started getting problem skin from about the age of 14. By the time I reached 15, I had full blown acne on my back and the starting of it on my face. While it wasn’t the worse case you’d ever seen I was a picker and of course this led to scarring and pitting in later years. In my 20’s it was all the rage to have a tan, obviously obtaining it as quickly as possible. This meant 2 week summer holidays roasting for the maximum burn, and then keeping the tan going with sun beds…….I have actually just cringed at the thought of the damage this has done over the years.

I have been going to Dr Jain more or less since he and his team opened the doors to Riverbanks Clinic. The clinic is 100% professional but warm and inviting that goes for the staff as well.

I am very much a NOW person and any treatment I tend to go for has more or less immediate results, I’m just not patient enough for a treatment to work its magic in months to come, which is why I wasn’t that enthusiastic about the Microneedling (Dermaroller) when Dr Jain first recommended that I should think about having this treatment. He explained that the main treatment is every 2 months for 6 months and weekly 20 minute visits to the clinic for the Omnilux light which is fantastic for speeding up the repairing process.

I had the first Dermaroller in June 2009, and once I had got over the fact that it was quite painful even with numbing cream on (my pain threshold isn’t great) I soon relaxed under the healing Omnilux light. I continued having the Omnilux every week if not twice a week. The second treatment was carried out in August. This time the numbing cream was put on to the max and I must say it was less painful. It was round about this time that one or two people started saying there was a change in my skin, however, I hadn’t noticed a change at this point.
In November I had my third Dermaroller and final Omnilux sessions (I have missed this lovely warm lamp!)

The first time I saw the difference was in December. I was putting on my makeup and it just glided on like a foundation advert! I looked younger, healthier, smoother I could go on! So many people have said wow, you look fantastic, what have you been doing. My 77 year old father in law would like to have it done and my husbands Christmas card this year read:

To my gorgeous wife who is getting younger by the day, I love you for always ……G xxxx

I am so pleased I had this done, six months is no time at all to wait for such fabulous results, thanks Dr J!"

Another happy Riverbanks Clinic patient!

If you'd like to know more about Omnilux and Dermaroller, why not drop us a line for more information?

Only 9 days left on our special offers - SmartXide, Obagi Skincare, Dermal fillers, laser hair removal

2009-12-21T22:03:00.001-08:00

5 Cosmetics To Buy Your Girlfriend This Christmas

2009-12-08T05:13:00.000-08:00

At Riverbanks Clinic, we understand just how important it is to get your girlfriend something extra special at Christmas time. So we’ve put together a list of suggestions for the five items that we think you should buy your girlfriend this Christmas!

ONE: Professional Skin Care Products
A woman that takes pride in her appearance knows that feeling good and looking great starts with the skin, the largest organ on the body. The trouble is that there’s so many skin care products on the market, it’s hard to tell the junk from the jewels.

Take our advice and take a look at these professional skincare kits. You can buy an intro kit, which will allow her to test the effects before committing to the full range. If she really likes the way this clever Christmas gift enhances her appearance, then you'll have a clue about what to get her for her birthday!

TWO: The Eyes Have It!
They say that they eyes are the windows to the soul and when a woman starts to get self conscious about her appearance, it’s often about the fine lines and wrinkles around her eyes. Now, be cautious, because you don’t want to hurt her feelings, but if she thinks she’d benefit from a little help around the eyes, then we’ve got a really snazzy range of eye serum products that will restore vital moisture to the eye area, reduce the appearance of fine lines and help to smooth out those wrinkles.

THREE: Luscious Lips
As part of our Mineral Make Up range, we have some sexy lip glosses in a selection of 14 different shades, so you can choose something that suits your girlfriend’s personality! But that’s not all, if your girlfriend is all about the lips, we’ve got Youngblood lip pencils, lip shine and lip sticks in 20 different shades. Let’s face it, with a bit of lippy at Xmas, you can’t go wrong!

FOUR: Marvelous Moisturiser
If you’re looking for a stocking filler that will light up her face, then you can’t go far wrong with a high quality, professional moisturiser. Our range of Priori and Vitage age defying moisturisers are perfectly suited to every day use, night time and as a hand and body lotion with built in sun protection.

FIVE: Gift Vouchers - With a Difference!
No one needs reminding that they’re getting older. But as our bodies mature, we start wishing that Mother Nature would hear our plea and turn back the clock. Well, we all know that’s not possible, but what is possible is a little bit of help - if she’s been talking about ‘getting a bit of work done’ and she’s not too sensitive to accept your assistance, why not give her some gift vouchers from Riverbanks Clinic. She can choose how she uses them, but if she’s been dreaming of some cosmetic treatment or professional skin care products, this will be the gift she’ll truly remember this Christmas.

Simon Cowell - Waxing or laser?

2009-12-03T07:51:00.000-08:00

Much has been made in the newspapers recently of Simon Cowell's seemingly hair free hands and upper chest area.

A man renowned for being pretty hairy, it's not surprising that it was noticed, the only real surprise is how surprised everyone was - this is the man who regularly has Botox, teeth whitening and other beauty treatments, so getting rid of excess hair was only a matter of time.

It does make our eyes water though at the thought of him getting those hairs removed by waxing - we're not knocking waxing but whichever way you look at it, it's gotta hurt!

We're hoping he went down the painless laser hair removal route - no pain, longer lasting results, and most importantly, no stubbly regrowth!

At Riverbanks Clinic we're regularly treating men for unwanted and excess hair, with fantastic results - you can see some of our before and after pictures as well as a great video on our painless laser hair removal page. Also have a look at our laser hair removal special offers.

And Simon, if it was waxing and you want to try a better way, give us a call ;)

Offers on Smartxide, Obagi, Dermal Fillers and Laser Hair Removal

2009-11-26T08:06:00.000-08:00

It's all go here at Riverbanks Clinic this Autumn, and we have some great offers if you buy before the end of the year.

So, if you're looking for a Christmas boost, or hinting about that perfect Christmas present, consider the following great offers:

Smartxide DOT Laser Skin Resurfacing:

Receive a complimentary Omnilux session, Vitage Vitamin C serum with each session.

Save £100!

Obagi Medical Prescription Strength Skin Care:

Receive a complimentary Elastiderm Eye Gel with each Starter Kit purchased.

Save £70!

Dermal Fillers

Buy one get one at half price!

Save up to £200!

Painless Laser Hair Removal

Buy 2 courses and save 20% on the second one!

To find out more, and to book your consultation, call Riverbanks Clinic on 01582 762877 quoting reference OCT-E09

Terms and conditions

Breast operation horror - could it have been avoided?

2009-11-11T09:46:00.000-08:00

You may have read in the Mail on Sunday last month about Sarah Cound's horrific breast reduction operation horror that has resulted in £17,000 of surgery, and still Ms Cound 'feels deformed'.

We won't reiterate the whole story here, but suffice to say Ms Cound may be £300,000 the richer after her monetary award, but as many women know, the money won't make up for the knock to her confidence, her self esteem, and her body.

Interestingly, and shockingly, The Mail on Sunday reports that:

The GMC records show that when he operated on Sarah, Dr Horn - who is not a member of the Royal College of Surgeons, BAAPS or the British Association of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons - was listed as a general surgeon. He was not registered as a plastic surgeon until four years later.

A Harley Medical Group spokesperson said: 'Gary Horn was employed as a plastic surgeon at the Harley Medical Group for a three-year contract 12 years ago between 1997 and 2000, when his contract expired.

'Only since 2002 have all our surgeons been required to be registered on the GMC Specialist Register as a plastic surgeon.'

While these horror stories are rare, it is important for us to reiterate a few simple checks and rules that can help you to avoid a similar story:

Always check your doctor's credentials and ensure your doctor belongs to the necessary associations
Ask for patient testimonials - this is your body you are talking about, insist on seeing what others say about your doctor
Insist on seeing before and after pictures of real patients that your doctor has treated
Ask to speak to previous patients - if your doctor has satisfied patients then it should be no problem to speak to people going through the same procedures as you

Most importantly, don't believe that because the clinic has a big and well known name or address (as in this case, Harley Street) it is the best. It's easy to be blinded by posh offices and a great bedside manner, but the above checks are way more important - avoid any horror stories of your own by making sure you cover everything.

If you're worried about a breast operation procedure and would like to talk to someone about a non surgical alternative, give Dr Ravi Jain a call on 01582 762877

Get a mini facelift for just £600 with Radiesse!

2009-11-02T04:22:00.000-08:00

Get a mini-facelift for only £600!

This amazing prices includes up to 3 syringes of Radiesse dermal filler (usual price is £400 per syringe). This is enough to restore volume to your face which would cost about £1200 with Sculptra or other dermal fillers. You can treat your nasolabial folds, subtley enhance your cheekbones back to where there once were, and also improve your jawline. Essentially you will be getting a mini-facelift for only £600!

Call us now on 01582 762 877 to book a free consultation with Dr Jain or fill out an online form to book an appointment or request more information.

Radiesse^® is an award winning FDA-approved dermal filler made of calcium-based microspheres suspended in a water-based gel. It can help restore a healthy, youthful appearance, enhance your existing features, help you defy age and gravity and increase your confidence – all without invasive surgery or scarring.

Radiesse dermal filler was voted by clinicians as the BEST INJECTABLE at the Aesthetic Medicine Awards. Dr Jain has been using Radiesse to improve peoples lives for the last 3 years and is recognised as an expert in its use.

10 Reasons to choose Radiesse Dermal Filler

1. 100% biocompatible - no allergy testing required

2. Mixed with anaesthesia - relatively painless procedure

3. Gives immediate results

4. Effective - get more lift per ml compared with other dermal fillers

5. Stimulates the body's own collagen production

6. Lasts longer than most leading dermal fillers

7. 100% biodegradable - absorbed naturally by the body

8. Little or no recovery time

9. Excellent safety profile as proven in clinical trials. FDA Approved.

10. High satisfaction scores from patients.

Call us now on 01582 762 877

to book a free consultation with Dr Jain or fill out an online form to book an appointment and request more information.

Vaser lipo testimonial - Sandra, St Albans

2009-10-30T05:57:00.000-07:00

I had contemplated having Liposuction on my outer thighs and waist as I'd always been unhappy with this area & regular exercise didn't help.

I looked up Liposuction on the web but I was worried about the recovery time & pain involved, this outweighed the benefits for me as I have 3 small children & couldn't contemplate bed rest following the procedure.

Then I saw some websites on Vaser & was really impressed. For me, Riverbanks was not only local, but it had won Aesthetic Medicine awards so I knew it was reputable clinic. The Website was informative & Dr Ravi Jain was very helpful when I emailed him some questions.

When I visited Riverbanks I saw first hand what a lovely, professional clinic it was. I really felt that I was in safe hands with the Nurse & Dr Jain who both made me feel totally at ease during the procedure.

After the procedure I could see the results immediately and they just kept getting better.

All of my family and friends have commented on how slim I'm looking!

Sandra, St Albans

Find out how to reshape your life

Call the Riverbanks Clinic on 0800 0 325415 and get the information you need to choose a new lease of life, or why not have a look at our Vaser Lipo Frequently Asked Questions?.

Bogus Vaser Exposed in UK Cosmetic Clinics

2009-10-28T05:29:00.000-07:00

Patients opting to have the latest fat busting treatment VASER are being warned that some UK cosmetic clinics claiming to offer the cutting-edge treatment could be misleading patients by actually giving them cheaper laser lipolysis instead.

Dr Ravi Jain, Medical Director at Riverbanks Clinic is urging patients to be more vigilant after it was revealed that a number of patients who believed they had paid for VASER at several clinics in the UK had in fact been given a lower value laser-based treatment.

“The most obvious clue that a VASER treatment is bogus is when the clinic asks the patient to wear protective goggles. With genuine VASER, you do not need to wear eye protection during this kind of treatment but will always be required to wear goggles for laser lipolysis,” reveals Dr Jain.

VASER has been widely regarded as a superior technology compared with laser techniques. VASER uses ultrasound energy rather than laser energy to selectively dissolve the fat cells, which allows for gentler suction techniques and provides more accurate sculpting. Vaser can be used on much larger areas of fat than laser lipolysis and as much as 2 litres can be taken in a single session.

VASER typically costs around £2000 yet some clinics are claiming to offer far less than the average market price, which is another big clue that they are actually using a cheaper laser based treatment instead.

Dr Jain is recommending that patients ask to see the VASER machine before they sign up for any treatment, check that their practitioner is registered on the VASER website and also ask to see testimonials from patients that have specifically had VASER at that clinic.

“Patients need to be able to trust that they are having the treatment they signed up for and that their chosen clinic is qualified to deliver it. It is completely unethical that some clinics are offering laser-based treatments disguised as VASER but by following these simple tips, a bogus VASER treatment will be easily identifiable,” says Dr Jain.

ENDS

Editors Notes
The award-winning Riverbanks Clinic is one of the UK’s leading clinics for non-surgical cosmetic and dermatological treatments. Formerly the Luton Skin Clinic, the prestigious Riverbanks Clinic helps men and women to turn back the clock, with the help of the very latest safe, non-surgical, highly effective anti-aging skin treatments. The clinic also specialises in treating skin problems such as acne and Roseaca. The most popular treatments offered by Riverbanks Clinic include Vaser Lipo, Botox, Dermal Fillers, Sculptra, Smartlipo, Smartxide DOT Laser and Accent Radiofrequency.

For more information visit www.riverbanksclinic.co.uk

Beware the bogus Vaser claims!

2009-10-26T03:48:00.000-07:00

It has come to our attention that some people are claiming to offer patients VASER treatments when they are actually offering them lower value Smartlipo treatments. This is not only unethical, it is illegal and dishonest.

They are charging less than true Vaser treatments as they are less skilled and have not had to invest in the newer technology.

My warning to all patients is to ask to see the Vaser machine BEFORE they sign up to a treatment. Check that the practitioner is registered on the VASER website. And if you are lying on the table and the doctor puts some green goggles on you, he is definetly using a laser and NOT VASER as with vaser you do not need eye protection (you only need it with Smartlipo/laser lipolysis).

Read about the differences between Vaser Lipo and Smart Lipo.

To be sure that you're getting the treatment you expect, talk to Dr Ravi Jain about Vaser lipo treatments at Riverbanks Clinic.

Call them man boobs, moobs, male breasts or gyaecomastia - we can help!

2009-10-17T06:55:00.000-07:00

It’s not just women who have boob-jobs – man-boobs or ‘moobs’ can be as much of a confidence sapper, especially when you want to:

• Look good in a fitted shirt when the meeting gets heated and the jackets come off;
• Be able to wear fitted T-shirts and crew necks without looking like the Michelin man;
• Look forward to holidays in the sunshine, without worrying about people staring when you strip off to your swimwear;

Man boobs (gyaecomastia) are one of those phenomena that weren’t there before and suddenly they seem to have appeared, almost overnight. As the years pass, gravity starts to have an effect. Breast reduction is not something that is only for the girls - you don’t have to spend the rest of your life hiding in baggy clothes and holidaying in colder climates – there is a solution!

Find out more at Riverbanks Clinic, and read our latest testimonial below:

"I selected Laser Lipo as i had read that it was less painfull than other methods and it recovery was much sooner.

I researched a few different clinics carrying out this procedure but felt Riverbanks offered much more in terms of a personal service rather than just another patient through the door.

When meeting Ravi i felt my selection was justified and have been happy with the results ever since. Even after the procedure Ravi has kept in touch to review my progress which confirmed my initial thoughts of a much more personal service.

In addition to that his staff make you feel very welcome and at ease from start to finish.

Thanks again."

Lunchtime Lipo - a review on MSN

2009-10-15T05:53:00.001-07:00

We're delighted to see that journalist Liz Frost is thoroughly pleased with her Vaser Lipo procedure, as she tells everyone here on MSN.

Some quotes from the article:

My boyfriend has been allowed in to keep me company and he looks like he's about to faint as he watches Ravi suctioning out my saddlebags, but I can't feel a thing. I chat to the nurse all the way through and actually find it satisfying watching my fat filtering into a small glass container.

With a whopping two pints of my fat siphoned off, I put on my special compression garments, which are a bit like the kind of support knickers you might wear under your Christmas party dress. They come up over my tummy like a corset and all the way down to my mid calf. There's a gap in the middle so that I can pee and my knickers go on over the top. I feel like superman.

Six weeks feels like a long time, but when I finally remove my compression garments for good, the bruising has gone and my legs have shrunk considerably. I can't help marvelling at how much longer my legs look now they're slimmer and my jeans are indeed a little big for me around the thigh.
Unable to wait another minute, I whip out the tape measure and discover I've lost two inches and my bathroom scales tell me I've lost almost half a stone in weight. I'm thrilled.

Have a read, and don't forget to vote for the article by clicking on the stars at the bottom!

And of course, if you're interested in Vaser Lipo, get in touch!

Does Botox give you 'Bunny lines'?

2009-10-11T03:03:00.000-07:00

There's been some reports in the tabloids recently about the advent of 'bunny lines' in people who've had Botox.

Ruby Room tells us:

Bunny lines are horizontal wrinkles that form across the ridge of the nose - they become more apparent when people smile. As we age, bunny lines will form naturally from years of making facial expressions.

However, when the rest of the face is Botoxed, bunny lines are often the only place the face can move freely, and as a result they become deeper.

But worry not! If you're visiting a qualified professional and not overdoing the Botox or Azzalure, then you won't end up looking like Thumper!

If this, or any other press story about Botox / Azzalure has you worried, have a chat with one of our team at Riverbanks Clinic and we'll put your mind at rest!

Riverbanks 1st birthday Party a massive success

2009-10-06T13:17:00.000-07:00

We were thrilled to host a party last week for patients and supporters of Riverbanks Clinic - over 100 people attended, the champagne was flowing and a good time was had by all.

Here are just some of the pictures of the evening - if you have any more, please feel free to upload them to our Facebook Fan page!

Six Uses for Sculptra

2009-09-30T04:09:00.000-07:00

Sculptra is a great new way to receive the benefits of cosmetic treatments but without surgery. Sculptra is a dermal stimulator; it works on a reaction between the product and the patient’s skin. When the skin responds to Sculptra, it naturally stimulates the growth and formation of new collagen. No artificial substances are used to fill the skin, simply using a Sculptra liquid facelift can help you to look younger and give you back the confidence in your appearance.

Sculptra is fully licensed in the United Kingdom for cosmetic use and recently gained FDA (Food and Drug Administration) approval in the United States, one of the toughest safety tests in the world.

ONE: Fight Premature Facial Ageing
When the signs of premature facial ageing ravage your appearance, many people turn to the drastic measure of a surgical facelift. Going under the knife is a costly and painful way to regain your youthful look. Sculptra offers an affordable, age defying alternative that’s now available in the UK. It’s a non-invasive treatment that stimulates fresh collagen and doesn’t require a hospital stay.

TWO: Fill Deep Folds and Wrinkles
Deep skin folds and wrinkles make us appear older than we are and give the face a creased, ancient expression. Sculptra is highly effective for filling wrinkles and deep folds in the skin by stimulating new collagen production offering you younger looking skin.

THREE: Smooth Wrinkly Hands
If you’re experiencing the embarrassment of prematurely ageing hands, there is a way to smooth out the wrinkles and give yourself younger looking hands once again. By using Sculptra, you will get plumper, thicker, fresher skin on your hands. There’s little downtime, which means no overnight hospital stay. Have the treatment on a Friday and go back to work on Monday.

FOUR: Combat Acne Scarring
Acne is the bane of our adolescence but many adults suffer from acne scarring and the embarrassment of skin scarred by teenage pimples. Sculptra can help the body to naturally regenerate and rejuvenate the skin areas affected by acne scarring, giving you more confidence in your appearance.

FIVE: Reshape Sagging Jowls
Sagging jowls are difficult to look at in the mirror each day. You probably want to take some kind of action, but you’re wondering what to do. A surgical facelift seems like an extreme step doesn’t it? That’s why Sculptra offers a non-surgical alternative to reshape sagging jowls and give you taut and fresh skin. Sculptra will stimulate the growth of fresher, plumper skin in and around the sagging areas and naturally give lift back to the jowl area.

SIX: Banish Marionette Lines
If you look in the mirror and see a much older person staring back, it may be that so-called Marionette lines are giving you a prematurely aged appearance. By using Sculptra to fill the lines between your nose and mouth and mouth and chin, you can get back your youthful appearance.

Sculptra is a safe way of getting cosmetic improvements for your face without the pain and inconvenience of surgery. To find out more about how you could use this new non-surgical alternative visit Riverbanks Clinic – experts in non-surgical cosmetic enhancements and qualified Sculptra trainers. Contact Riverbanks Clinic today on 01582 762877 or go to www.riverbanksclinic.co.uk.

Are you hampering Anti Ageing Treatments with a bad skincare routine?

2009-09-27T05:14:00.000-07:00

Women opting for anti-ageing surgery but want to keep that all important 'natural' look are preferring less invasive treatments but could be making the job harder by not looking after their skin properly, a leading cosmetic expert reveals.

Dr Ravi Jain, Medical Director of Riverbanks Clinic has voiced concerns that whilst managing the rising demand for natural looking non-invasive skin treatments is now a top priority for many salons, basic skincare and skin health is often overlooked and this is having a profound effect on how successful the treatments are for patients with damaged skin.

"Natural beauty is not just about adding some volume to the skin here or injecting some Botox there, it is also about assessing the general health of the skin itself and taking necessary steps to restore and rejuvenate the skin prior to any treatment. Damage caused to the skin by overexposure to the sun can contribute massively to how a treatment not only reacts with the skin but the long term results and so before any you do anything, you need to get your skin healthy," says Dr Jain.

If you suffer from sun damaged-skin and are noticing fine lines and wrinkles appearing, sun spots emerging or a general tightening and sagging of the skin, Dr Jain recommends taking the following steps to rejunvenate tired skin.

1. Maximise skin health by effective exfoliation and hydration therapies such as alpha-hydroxy acid skin care programmes and peels. Ensure you use an antioxidant SPF 30 in the summer and 15 in the winter, every single day. (try Priori AHA or Idenbenone)

2. To correct pigmentation and broken veins consider a course of IPL/laser during the winter months.

3. Consider botulinum toxin or dermal filler injections for fine lines and wrinkles, caused by sun damage.

"Prevention is always the key to maintaining natural, healthy looking skin and many people simply don't realise the damage they've already caused to their skin, even if it looks ok on the surface. I'd recommend anyone who has over exposed their skin in the past to go and have their skin analysed under a facial scanner. That way, they'll see exactly what state their skin is in now and can then take the best steps to improve their skincare routine and slow down the ageing process as they get older," says Dr Jain.

Special Offer: Visit Riverbanks Clinic and have a skin analysis consultation including facial scanner analysis for just £25 if you quote ref: SUNBLOG1 when making your booking. Call 01582 762877 for more details. Offer valid until Feb 1 2010.

Danni Minogue: Botox helped me through my sister's cancer

2009-09-23T12:07:00.001-07:00

We've talked in the past about Botox helping depression (although the study of this is still in its early stages), so it was interesting to read Dannii Minogue's account in many of the online newspapers over the last few days of how she turned to Botox when the stress of her sister Kylie's cancer battle got too much.

Ms Minogue has decided to turn her back on Botox for now, but seems certain that it helped her to get through the strain of both her sister's cancer, and the death of her best friend.

"My sister was sick, then my best friend died soon after - I felt I'd been hit by a wave. I couldn't deal with the stress. I couldn't deal with having to look at my face," Dannii explains. "It was a personal thing of having to get through a lot of sadness."

In the past we've quoted a study on Botox and depression:

“The basic principle is that there is feedback from the body to the brain so the brain always knows what the body is doing,” said Marc Axel Wollmer, the psychiatrist in charge of the trials being held jointly at Basle University, Switzerland, and Hanover University, Germany.

“If we have an emotion like joy or grief we also have a facial expression that corresponds,” he said. “Studies indicate that if we deliberately produce a facial expression, there is a change in feeling.”

So can botox help combat depression? It's early days in the studies and research, but be sure that as soon as there's a definitive answer, we'll let you know!

Want to talk to someone about Botox? Give us a call on 01582 762877 or visit our website.

Prevage MD Anti Aging Treatment - save £50 at Riverbanks!

2009-09-17T00:51:00.000-07:00

PREVAGE MD anti-aging treatment, an innovative cosmetic by Allergan, represents the next generation of topical antioxidants and contains 1% idebenone - a revolutionary, potent, and effective antioxidant.

Clinical tests with PREVAGE prove a significant decrease in the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and improvement in the look of firmness, tone, texture & radiance.
In addition, 81% of consumers tested (107 over an 8 week period), including those with moderate to severe sun-damaged skin, saw a significant improvement in their skin's appearance.

A leading online Chemist and Beauty store has one version of this fantastic product on the shelves for £145 - but here at Riverbanks you can pick up the double strength version for just £95!

Make a difference to your skin - buy Prevage MD anti aging treatment now!

Vitage SPF 30 works! Another satisfied customer at Riverbanks

2009-09-16T04:27:00.000-07:00

If you're a sun lover, it's easy to think that using a higher SPF sun cream will make getting a tan harder, and reach for the lower SPF, or indeed no protection at all.

So it's always nice when we get testimonials from customers who have become converts!

Says Mrs Dawson, who bought our Vitage SPF30 skin protector:

I have to admit I was reluctant to use such a high SPF when it was first recommended to me at the clinic.

I love the sun, and feel that my skin looked better with a "healthy" tan.

I was concerned that using sun protection 30 would mean that I would stay pale and uninteresting throughout the summer!

However, common sense prevailed. One of the reasons for going to Riverbanks Clinic was because of the premature ageing and sun spots on my skin - so I thought I would take the plunge.

Imagine my delight & surprise when my skin gradually turned brown - and I was secure in the knowledge that whilst there's no such thing as a healthy tan - I was protecting my skin and minimising the negative effects of the sun.

Vitage SPF 30 is now part of my daily skin care regime - and I have just purchased the larger size to use on my whole body when I sun bathe. I can definitely recommend everyone using it - to prevent further damage to your skin or to protect your skin against damage in the first place.

It's great to see someone taking our advice, although reluctantly at first, and realising that these products DON'T stop you getting a tan but DO help to protect your skin!

Browse through the Vitage range in our online shop, and make sure that your skin is protected, whatever the weather!

OBAGI skincare treatments come to Riverbanks Clinic

2009-09-08T02:25:00.001-07:00

We're delighted to be able to offer the range of OBAGI skincare treatments at Riverbanks Clinic - find out more below, and why not visit our Open Day on September 9th 2009 to find out more about the OBAGI Nu-derm skincare system?

Transform your skin and take away the years!

If you really want your skin to glow with health it’s time to look at the OBAGI range of treatments. They offer the opportunity to recreate the skin you had in your youth – and also provide the invaluable protection younger skins need to stay looking clear, bright and youthful.

The OBAGI range of products can almost work miracles! They’re only available from a qualified physician – so you can’t just buy them in your local pharmacy. Every product has been thoroughly researched and clinically tested with stunning results.

They include:

Elastiderm – which does what it says and improves the elasticity and resilience of the skin, whilst reducing wrinkles, discolouration and damage from the sun and the environment. It gives you a flawless, youthful skin on your face, neck and decolletage.
Nu-Derm – specific treatments for different skin types to restore the balance and healthy function of your skin cells at a cellular level. This treatment can correct damage from UVA and UVB rays, encouraging healthy new cells to grow and removing the older damaged cells.
Blue Peel System – this is usually preceded by the Nu-Derm treatment to get your skin into the best possible condition; it then removes to strip away all the old cells over a period of 7-10 days and creates a firmer, clearer, skin that glows with health.
Condition and Enhance System – this is often used after dermal filler treatments, microdermabrasion, chemical peels and Botox. It lightens, tightens and firms the skin to create that translucent youthful skin that the environment has dulled.
CLENZIderm – provides deep penetration to treat skin conditions at the root of the problem. It’s great at reducing Acne and other skin conditions and a significant reduction can be seen in just two weeks.
Rosaclear – this all in one system treats Rosacea pimples, redness, flushing and blotchiness calms and hydrates skin. This system also includes an SPF30 skin balancing treatment.
PRO-C Serum – protects your skin from sun, smoke and pollution and reverses the effects of free radicals that cause cell damage, break down of collagen and the dehydration that causes fine lines and wrinkles.
OBAGI-CRx System – is especially for younger skins – to keep them looking good and retaining their suppleness and glow. As a complete skincare system this early intervention works together to protect your skin from developing freckles, age spots and wrinkles. The system works together to protect, even your skin tone and gently exfoliate old cells.

These amazing treatments will revolutionise your skin – and reverse the damage that the years have done. You’ll be amazed at how your skin will glow and shine with health; it will be lighter, brighter, clearer, smoother, firmer – and younger!

You’ll find more details of these treatments on the OBAGI website – or find out how to transform your skin now – ring the Riverbanks Clinic team on 01582 762877.

Find out how the OBAGI NUDERM skin care system can transform your skin!

2009-09-03T03:21:00.000-07:00

Here at Riverbanks Clinic, we're holding a series of Open Days to celebrate our first fantastic year!

Why not join us on Wednesday 9th September when you can discover how to transform your skin with the OBAGI NUDERM skin care system?

Find out how to reduce melasma, pigmentation, acne scarring and smooth away fine lines with presentations from 4pm onwards.

Don't miss this opportunity to experience 21st Century skincare - call us now on 01582 762 877 quoting ref RBWEB0909 to book your place.

Remember, our Open Days always book up fast, so reserve your place (and maybe that of a friend?) now!

Macrolane Helps to Restore Breast Volume After Breast Feeding / Pregnancy

2009-09-02T03:38:00.000-07:00

Invariably during pregnancy and after breast-feeding, women experience a change in their breast volume. The upper part of the breast often loses volume and therefore the overall shape of the breast changes to a less pleasing form. The changes are often not pleasant and result in women becoming extremely self-conscious about their bodies and losing self-confidence. As a result of this, many women choose to have some form of cosmetic breast treatment after pregnancy to help restore the volume and shape of their breasts.

But until very recently, the only option was painful surgery with lengthy healing times. However, lately, the use of a treatment called Macrolane has been changing the way that women restore the volume of their breasts after breast-feeding and pregnancy. Macrolane is a highly effective breast enhancement filler that rapidly increases the volume of breasts without implants, without hospital stay or time off from work.

Macrolane is a man-made gel developed from Hyaluronic Acid, a naturally occurring substance in the body. Once the gel has been injected into the area where additional volume is required, the Macrolane attracts water to that area, giving it a natural boosting and lifting effect. Getting a fuller, reshaped bust is easier than ever with Macrolane.

The procedure takes less than an hour and involves a simple injection that gives the breasts both lift and volume. The treatment is performed under a local anaesthetic. This is really a walk-in/walk-out treatment that offers the best natural looking results with no time off work required. There is minimal risk of scarring and you’ll be glad to know that Macrolane does not hinder the results of a Mammogram.

With Macrolane, you see immediate results. It takes only a few days for the tissue of the breast to fully absorb the water from your body, but within a fortnight, the Macrolane softens and the breast feels completely natural again.

The results of Macrolane are not permanent, which means if you are unhappy with your treatment, you can return to your original size and shape after about 12-14 months. If you are happy with the level of restored volume and increased lift that the Macrolane gives your breasts, then you would need to have regular Macrolane top-ups each year.

So having children doesn’t have to mean an end to maintaining beautiful, well-shaped breasts, with Macrolane treatments you can get very affordable breast enhancement treatment with no downtime.

Macrolane is not just used for post-pregnancy breast volume loss, but also for women that are seeking breast augmentation, enhancement and reshaping of asymmetrical breasts. Macrolane is a safe alternative to surgery and due to the nature of the gel itself, which is not a foreign substance to the body; there is very little risk of an allergic reaction to the treatment.

If you’re looking to restore volume to your breasts after pregnancy, why not make an appointment to speak with a Macrolane Breast Enhancement specialist at Riverbanks Clinic by calling 01582 762877 or visiting http://www.riverbanksclinic.co.uk

A Vaser Lipo case study on Twitter!

2009-08-24T13:06:00.001-07:00

If you follow Dr Ravi Jain on Twitter, you'll know that he frequently posts about patients (anonymously of course!) and how they're getting on after their Vaser Lipo, so we thought you may be interested in another Tweeter we've found.

Kym K, of Denver Colorado, posts as TimeForUpgrade, and her twitter stream is all about the journey she has been on since deciding to have Vaser Lipo on her neck, arms and tummy.

From before the surgery, Kym has detailed her thoughts and worries:

Woke up 4 am. One day before surgery. Excited. Anxious. A bit nervous. Big changes ahead.

Her hopes:

Going to bed. Getting up at 4:30am to be at hospital at 6:00am for vaser lipo and tummy-tuck. Planning this for 6 months-my future awaits!

Her experiences during the process:

First day post vaser lipo and tummy tuck. Cant believe the minimal arm & neck discomfort.

And afterwards:

First day post vaser lipo and tummy tuck. Cant believe the minimal arm & neck discomfort.

Just left post-op appointment. Dr is thrilled with the results and I feel great.

Rested all day. Getting ready to take off all garments & shower. It will be the first look I get of myself after Vaser Lipo & tummy tuck.

WOW! Finally got to see what I look like. Neck is amazing. Arms look great. Less than one week & I am going out in public. I am so happy.

Here at Riverbanks Clinic, we're thrilled to see Kim tweeting about her experience in such details, and really happy that she's sharing with the Twitterverse how great she feels after Vaser Lipo.

We'll leave the last word on the subject (for now!) to her:

I am now 4 weeks post surgery and feel great. My neck & arms look fantastic! The recovery from the tummy tuck is coming along.

Be sure to follow Kim on Twitter to keep up with her progress!

Skin complaints and how to treat them - #5: Blood Blisters

2009-08-10T12:47:00.000-07:00

As the final entry in our mini series of skin complaints, we're going to talk about Blood Blisters. If you've been affected by amy of the skin complaint subjects we've covered (Acne, Age Spots, Rosacea, Sun Damaged Skin or Blood Blisters) then please do contact us at Riverbanks Clinic.

Blood blisters form when the blood vessels and tissue beneath the skin are damaged without breaking the skin. These are painful and unsightly and are formed when a pool of blood and lymph fluid is trapped under the skin’s surface.

Treatment: The best treatment for this complaint is a ND:YAG laser. This is a very quick way of removing these unflattering blood blisters without scarring the skin.

To find out more about the latest treatments for these and other skin complaints, visit Riverbanks Clinic.

Skin complaints and how to treat them - #4: Sun Damaged Skin

2009-08-10T12:42:00.000-07:00

Having covered Acne, Age Spots and Rosacea in previous blogs, now we turn to Sun Damaged Skin.

Remember, we're always available to talk about any skin complaints you may have, and to let you know whether we can help with them, on 01582 762 877.

#4 - Sun Damaged Skin

The harmful effects of over exposure to the sun present themselves as skin cancer, uneven pigmentation and Rosacea, amongst other health problems.

Treatment: The first step is to spend less time in the sun or use a high factor skin protection cream. The two main treatments are Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) and SmartXide Laser Skin Resurfacing. Prevention is often better than cure, and using a powerful antioxidant agent such as idebenone has been shown to be very helpful.

Tomorrow we talk about Blood Blisters.

Skin complaints and how to treat them - #3: Rosacea

2009-08-10T12:36:00.002-07:00

#3 in our mini series of blogs on common skin complaints that can be treated at Riverbanks Clinic.

Dr Ravi Jain, our Medical Director, specialises in cosmetic dermatology and the treatment of skin complaints such as Rosacea.

#3 - Rosacea

Rosacea is a chronic skin condition that affects the cheeks, nose and forehead areas of the face. It results in the skin having a flushed, blotchy red appearance and produces red, pus-filled bumps in the skin. If this condition is not treated, it becomes worse with time. Rosacea is often mistakenly confused for eczema. Although the condition is currently incurable, there are treatments that can reduce the appearance of the Rosacea.

Treatment: The appearance of Rosacea can be greatly reduced using a combination of professional skin products; light therapy and IPL laser treatment as well as anti-inflammatory and antibiotic medication, both topical and as a tablet.

If you would like to talk to someone about reducing the appearance of Rosacea, why not contact us now and we'll be happy to talk you through the process, as well as making an appointment for a no obligation consultation.

Skin complaints and how to treat them - #2: Age spots

2009-08-10T12:30:00.001-07:00

Number 2 in a series of blogs about skin complaints and how to treat them, by Dr Ravi Jain, an expert in cosmetic dermatolody, and Medical Director at Riverbanks Clinic, based in Harpenden, Herts.

#2 - Age spots

These are often known as Liver Spots or Sun Spots. They are actually signs of damage from UV exposure. These age spots are often found on the hands, face, shoulders, arms and head. The spots appear in middle age as the skin, which has been weakened by sun exposure fails to regenerate with the same capacity. At this point, the age spots begin to show.

Treatment: Using treatments such as Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) and SmartXide DOT Laser Therapy, the appearance of age spots can be reduced, and in some cases entirely removed.

If you would like to talk to someone about removing Age Spots, please contact us at Riverbanks Clinic for a no obligation consultation.

Tomorrow - Rosacea

Skin complaints and how to treat them - #1: Acne

2009-08-10T12:17:00.000-07:00

Dr Jain of Riverbanks Clinic specialises in cosmetic dermatology and minor surgery. He believes that any skin treatment can be an emotional experience – from the anticipation of greater self-assurance and improved confidence, to the relief of peeling away old acne scars and with them, painful memories.

With this in mind, here is the first in a series of posts on skin complaints and how to treat them.

#1 - Acne

Acne affects mainly adolescents but also many adults too. Whilst the facial eruptions are unsightly and embarrassing, the resulting facial scarring is often far worse. Hormone surges cause an increase in sebaceous secretions that become blocked in the skin along with dead cells and skin bacteria. Eventually, these clogged areas erupt as acne at the surface of the skin, often leaving the individual with scars on their face.

Acne Treatment: There are a range of skin treatments for acne itself, which include special skin care products and medication. For acne scarring, there are also many options. SmartXide Dot Laser therapy can be used to resurface the skin. When this is combined with professional skin care products and light therapy, the appearance of acne scars is dramatically reduced. Using Dermal fillers may also improve the appearance of the skin, these are injected beneath the skin of the scars and fills the area where the scar is. Other treatments for acne scars include AHA Skin Peels and Medical Microdermabrasion.

If you would like to discuss non surgical cosmetic treatments for Acne, please feel free to contact us now at the Riverbanks Clinic.

Tomorrow: Age Spots

Getting rid of acne with Botox

2009-08-03T14:10:00.000-07:00

More Botox news - the famous anti-wrinkle treatment is also being hailed as a miracle cure for acne on The Plastic Surgery Channel this week (video below).

"Shah has used Botox to treat acne in 100 patients. He has found that injecting Botox into the skin can essentially “freeze” the pores into place. This quickly prevents them from producing excess oil, and as a result, patients no longer experience the greasy clogging in their pores that leads to acne."

The segment ends with a warning that care must be taken, and we reiterate that - always see a qualified reputable practitioner when considering Botox - remember, Dr Ravi Jain of Riverbanks Clinic is a qualified, reputable and experienced practitioner, with plenty of testimonials from happy and satisfied patients.

Curing migraines with Botox

2009-08-03T14:02:00.000-07:00

More Botox news today, this time telling us that Botox can be used to cure migraines, something we spoke to you about a while ago.

The Daily Mail reports that 1 in 8 of us are affected by migraines, and if you've had one you'll know that the syptoms are awful:

nausea
vomiting
numbness
visual disturbances
temporary paralysis

Rather than putting up with it, or spending out on an expensive and invasive operation, the Mail's Health Editor decided to give Botox a go.

And she's delighted that she did!

"For me, having Botox injected into my frown muscles has been nothing short of miraculous."

"He warned me that I might have a headache afterwards (I didn't). The relief was instant: my forehead felt relaxed and light, as if I'd been on holiday."

"One month on and I am migraine-free."

So if you're suffering from migraines, Botox might be the cure for you. To talk about this, and other uses of Botox, why not book a no obligation consultation with Dr Ravi Jain of Riverbanks Clinic?

Curing depression with Botox ?

2009-08-03T13:56:00.000-07:00

We've spoken at length in the past about the many uses for Botox - it's not all wrinkles and crow's feet, as we keep telling you!

You may have read in The Times over the weekend that Botox is now being tested as a cure for depression.

“The basic principle is that there is feedback from the body to the brain so the brain always knows what the body is doing,” said Marc Axel Wollmer, the psychiatrist in charge of the trials being held jointly at Basle University, Switzerland, and Hanover University, Germany.

“If we have an emotion like joy or grief we also have a facial expression that corresponds,” he said. “Studies indicate that if we deliberately produce a facial expression, there is a change in feeling.”
The article goes on to relate this to the age old advice that if you're nervous at a party, smiling will help you to enjoy it more, as the body takes its cue from the facial expression.

An initial test of using Botox for depression on 10 people showed that of the 10, 9 are no longer depressed and the 10th has reported that he/she feels better.

It's early days, but we'll keep you posted, both here and at our Riverbanks Clinic website!

The horrors of years of tanning, and how to fix them

2009-08-03T00:02:00.000-07:00

You may have read in the Daily Mail over the weekend how TV presenter Anna Ryder Richardson finally realised that her lifelong love of tanning had lead to more than she expected.

Says Ryder Richardson: "I knew that my love of tanning would encourage wrinkling but I was horrified when she [the surgeon] told me that it speeds up the destruction of collagen, which gives plumpness to your face"

She goes on to tell how in her 20s she had a sunbed at home and used coconut oil in the summer to get a quicker and better tan - no SPF50 for her! And let's not forget that stint in the I'm A Celebrity Jungle, which may have seemed like heaven for her tan, but would have played hell with her skin.

The problem, as the article states, is that:

Collagen loss, she [the surgeon] explained, happens to everyone, particularly after the age of 35. Collagen is an elastic tissue that helps build cartilage, ligaments and tendons.
It is also responsible for skin strength and elasticity and is the main component of the lower layer of skin - the dermis.
The production of collagen slows down in your early 30s due to the ageing process. This is when the face starts to lose volume and your cheeks can start to look gaunt by your early 40s.
But the loss of collagen is greater when your skin is exposed to sun and ultra-violet (UV) light.
The rate at which it diminishes varies from individual to individual, but exposing your face to sunlight continually over decades could speed up the rate of collagen depletion and the corresponding loss in facial volume by ten years or more.

So Ms Ryder Richardson turned to Sculptra, a non invasive cosmetic procedure that can fill out your face to restore the plumpness of youth and give you a kind of facelift that lasts between 18 months and two years.

And she appears to be thrilled with the results, saying "After six weeks, my skin was definitely looking better. My cheeks were fuller. Filled out by the extra volume, the jowls that were beginning to appear have vanished. At 12 weeks, and after having had the second treatment, my face is looking generally fuller and more lifted. Friends keep telling me I look 'really well'."

Dr Ravi Jain, of Riverbanks Clinic sits on the advisory board to the makers of Sculptra and has treated many patients worried about the effects of tanning on their skin. To find out more about the Sculptra 'facelift', visit the Riverbanks website now!

3 Ways to stop excessive sweating

2009-07-31T05:14:00.000-07:00

Excessive sweating is not a sign of bad hygiene or poor personal grooming it is caused by a health condition called hyperhidrosis. This condition affects 3% of the population, who experience excessive sweating, whether the temperature is hot or cold.

It affects both sexes equally, although it mainly occurs in people between 20-60 years of age. People that suffer from hyperhidrosis are often very embarrassed by the rapid, drenching state that it produces without any warning. Despite washing regularly, using anti-perspirant and changing their clothes as often as possible, they are still wet with sweat without cause.

But thankfully for those people, there exists some ways to stop the embarrassing condition of hyperhidrosis.

Laser/Vaser treatment
Relatively new techniques such as Smartlipo or Vaser can be used to treat axillary hyperhidrosis (Excessive sweating of the armpits). They are a minor surgical procedure carried out under local anaesthetic where 1 small incision is made. The laser/vaser heats the tissue and so destroys the sweat glands. The results are semi-permanent and there have not been any reported complications to date, although there is no long term data yet.

Sympathomimectomy Surgery
The advances in modern medical technology mean that these days, hyperhidrosis surgery uses only three incisions and a small camera during the procedure. The operation itself is done under general anaesthesia. Two or three cuts are made under the armpit. A tiny camera is passed through the incisions. This allows the surgeon to see well enough to cut the nerves that send the signals to the overactive sweat glands.

During this operation, the lung is collapsed and later re-inflated to provide room for the surgeon to work. When one side is completed, the procedure is carried out on the other side of the patient. The patient will be in hospital for about 24 hours and recovery time is up to 10 days.

The results are often very good, but it is not unusual to develop the sweating elsewhere on the body following surgery.

Botox – The Best Overall Treatment
The most successful way to reduce excessive sweating is the use of Botox. It is much safer than major surgery and can be carried out with no downtime. The greatest advantage of using Botox is that a series of injections can leave the patient free from the embarrassing condition of hyperhidrosis for up ten months, a great relief for many sufferers.

The treatment works by injecting the Botox into the skin areas that are most affected by excessive sweating. This prevents the release of a chemical called acetylcholine, which carries messages from the nervous system to the sweat glands across the body.

With this approach, the patient does not need to stay overnight. Any pain will be limited to a slight discomfort during the injections only and you won’t need to take time off work.

If you want to stop excessive sweating in its tracks, contact Riverbank Clinic, we can treat your hyperhidrosis, no sweat!

Olympia Beauty Show - come see Dr Ravi Jain speak!

2009-07-30T10:01:00.000-07:00

Positioned in London’s West End, Olympia Beauty is the most prestigious show in the beauty calendar for professionals.

Olympia Beauty will deliver an exquisite array of brands such as Dermalogica, CACI International and OPI, to name but a few.

This essential beauty event will play host to:

Two live educational stages FREE for all visitors
Over 250 major brands from all corners of the beauty industry
Superb catering facilities for all tastes
Massive savings and hundreds of exclusive show deals
The latest launches, styles and collections available for autumn 2009

And Riverbanks Clinic's Dr Ravi Jain will be speaking on Sunday 20th September between 15:30 and 16:00.

In the current climate, salons need to find ways of maximising income from existing customers as well as draw in new clientele. Dr Ravi Jain, medical director at multi-award winning Riverbanks Clinic provides a run down of the best non-surgical treatments on the market and how these can form part of the salon’s offering.

You can download the seminar program here.

10 Reasons to Avoid the Sun

2009-07-29T02:21:00.000-07:00

It’s true that sunshine is good for us.

But we are frighteningly unaware of the potential damage that the sun does to our bodies.

Here are just 10 reasons to avoid the sun:

1. Most of the signs of aging that show themselves in later life such as fine lines and pigmentation problems are actually caused by the sun before we are even 18 years old.

2. Exposure to the sun has been established as the primary trigger for the skin disease called Rosacea. This is characterised by permanent redness in areas of the face. While Rosacea isn’t dangerous to your health, it does give you a blotchy red appearance.

3. Protect your eyes! Did you know that one of the major causes of age-related cataracts is exposure to the sun? It’s not just your skin that could be suffering!

4. Cumulative sun exposure massively increases the risk of skin cancer. Whilst most skin cancers can be removed easily, some require invasive and potentially disfiguring surgery.

5. Another effect of cumulative exposure to the sun is precancerous lesions. These are ugly reddish or brown spots that appear on the skin and indicate the risk of future skin cancer.

6. Although remarkably easy to avoid by wearing sunscreen, solar lentigines are disfiguring brown-pigmented areas that can be found on skin areas that are exposed to the sun. They are usually the result of sunburn, but they also appear in elderly people who had years of exposure to the sun.

7. It’s true that facial acne is temporarily put on hold because exposure to the sun affects the outer layers of the skin. However, being in the sun greatly stimulates oil production in the skin, which makes skin bacteria multiply aggressively. Once away from the sun, there is a major eruption as all of the built up oil, bacteria and dead skin cells are forced to the surface of the softening skin.

8. If you’ve experience the unsightly pigmentation changes caused by acne, you’ll want to stay out of the sun. Sun bathing will make these changes darker and much more difficult to treat.

9. Exposure to the sun causes your hair follicles to become damaged, leaving your hair looking dull and making it brittle. The sun also strips hair of its natural colour, and prematurely ages it.

10. The fake sunlight emitted from tanning beds radiates UV rays that deeply penetrate your skin and is worse for your skin than the real sun!

Treatments such as Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) and SmartXide Laser Skin Resurfacing are currently available to help reduce the appearance of sun-damaged skin.

With IPL, the dark sun damaged areas absorb the intense light and after just a few days they darken and crust over and fall off. SmartXide Laser Skin Resurfacing offers the best results. It uses an advanced laser that leaves the skin looking younger, tighter and smoother.

For treatment solutions for sun-damaged skin, contact Riverbanks Clinic for a consultation.

Wide Awake Liposuction at Riverbanks Clinic

2009-07-20T01:40:00.001-07:00

People are always amazed when I tell them that they can have liposuction and still be wide awake - but with Vaser Lipo they really can!

Unlike 'traditional' liposuction, it's a non-surgical alternative, and as the video below shows, the patient stays wide awake throughout the Vaser liposuction procedure.

To find out more about Wide Awake Liposuction, why not contact Riverbanks Clinic with any questions, and book a consultation now?

Restalyne Sub Q UK Summer Special Offer!

2009-07-14T06:50:00.000-07:00

If you've ever wanted fuller cheek bones which look natural, just like when you were younger, consider Restylane Sub Q.

I am delighted to offer you the chance to receive a treatment of Restylane Sub Q at half price in July.

Normal Price for 2mls = £400
Offer price for 2 mls = £200 (save £200)
Normal Price for 4mls = £800
Offer price for 4 mls = £400 (save £400)

Most people will require 2mls for a very subtle cheek enhancement or 4mls for a longer lasting one.

Restylane Sub Q can also be used for:

1. Cheek volume enhancement

2. Jawline smoothening

3. Deeper Nasolabial folds

4. Chin enhancements.

This is an extremely limited offer and is available on a first come first served basis only. Treatments must be performed in July 2009.

Call 01582 762 877 to arrange your appointment with me!

Warmest regards

Dr Ravi Jain

www.riverbanksclinic.co.uk

5 Steps to Sensational Summer Skin

2009-07-14T06:30:00.000-07:00

No doubt you know the mantra 'cleanse, tone, moisturise', but really looking after your skin can take a little extra care.

If you still have a youthful skin it doesn't mean this is not for you - if you look after your skin now, you'll keep that sensational smooth look for much longer and take years off your chronological age as the years go by.

Summer is when the sunshine makes you feel good, but the damage it can do is generally invisible in the short term - it's only when nasty brown marks appear later that you wish you'd been a little less carefree about how you treated your skin!

Yes, we can almost achieve miracles at Riverbanks, but our advice is to take action NOW so you don't need those more extreme treatments later on.

Here's our step-by-step guide to sensational skin:

CLEANSE - we recommend Priori Idebenone Cleanser and this is ideal in the summer as it helps correct sun damage.
CORRECT: Iron out existing imperfections with Even Tones or Smooth Lines. They even out your skin tone and smoothe away lines
Give your skin a boost to enhance hydration and brighten your skin - Vitage Vitamin C Serum does this perfectly.
HYDRATE - to combat the drying effects of the sun and give you that smooth, plump, youthful glow. Priori Barrier Repair Complex and Priori Idebenone Moisturisers are the best on the market, as they hydrate the skin cells from inside the cells rather than simply leaving a sheen on the surface, as most over the counter products do.
PROTECT - We can't recommend this strongly enough. Anyone who knows us will be familiar with our insistence that an SPF of at least 30 is essential. SPF; SPF; SPF!!! Use the Daily Defense SPF 30, Radical Defense or Vitage SPF 30.

If you don't think you need to do all this ask us to scan your skin with the VISIA Complexion Analysis Camera before you go on holiday and you'll see what damage sun can do to your skin!

Gordon Ramsay admits Botox on chin - was it worth it?

2009-07-05T22:30:00.000-07:00

The Daily Mail asked a few weeks ago whether Gordon Ramsay had resorted to Botox on that famous craggy, lined face of his, using the following pictures as 'proof' that he had a less lined forehead:

He joked about it then, but reports over the weekend state that he has indeed undertaken Botox - on his chin!

You would imagine that Gordon more than most would realise that his famously lined face is part of his appeal (or so my female friends tell me!), but the famously Botoxed Simon Cowell is alleged to have talked him into it.

Gordon is quoted as saying "“Anyway, I was getting a complex for the first time in my life, so I did it. Botox. A jab here and one here. And no one has f****** noticed."

What do you think? Tell us in the comments below whether you think he looks better, worse, or no different.

Of course, this 'story' proves that it's not only women who decide that Botox will make them look and feel better - at Riverbanks we regularly treat men as well as women. So, if you're a man, looking in the mirror and not liking the wrinkles you see, why not contact us and see what we can do?

Vaser Lipo Frequently asked questions - vaser liposelection

2009-07-03T02:46:00.000-07:00

Here at Riverbanks, prospective patients ask many questions about Vaser Liposuction, so we've put together this FAQ to answer the ones asked most.

What is VASER Liposuction?

VASER Liposuction is a highly sophisticated alternative to traditional liposuction. It uses ultrasound technology to emulsify the fat in your body. By turning the fat into a liquid, the fat can be easily removed from the body using a suction cannula.

The technique selectively removes fat without damaging blood vessels, nerves and tissue. As a result of this, it creates far less trauma to the body and reduces the recovery times.

VASER Liposuction can be used in many areas of the body, including the back, the abdomen, breasts and other areas that were previously difficult to sculpt with traditional methods.

Is VASER Lipo better than Smart Lipo?

It’s not a matter of ‘better’ per se; they are very different methods of removing fat from the body. Smart Lipo has some advantages over traditional liposuction, but VASER works differently in the way that it removes the fat and has more advantages than convention lipo and Smart laser solutions.

Simply put, Smart Lipo uses a laser to break up the fat, whereas VASER Lipo uses ultrasound technology. VASER Lipo has demonstrated excellent recovery times, because it does not damage blood vessels, nerves or connective tissues when it is melting the fat.

VASER Lipo is performed under local anaesthesia and greatly reduce risk and recovery times, compared with traditional liposuction.

What can I expect during VASER LipoSelection recovery?

In our experience, patients recover much faster when they have VASER LipoSelection, compared with patients that have experienced traditional liposuction. Unlike conventional liposuction, VASER patients are able to get light exercise within a few days and are fully back to normal within two weeks. Of course, they should keep their dressings on for the full six weeks.

Because VASER is only minimally invasive, and tackles only your body fat, it reduces the trauma to the body, so pain is reduced. This means you will not need to take strong painkillers or numbing medications.

What’s the difference between Liposuction, Liposculture and Liposelection?

These are all marketing terms used within the cosmetic treatment industry for similar products.

‘Liposuction’ is simply the term used for the frequently performed surgical procedure that removes unwanted fat from the body using a suction system.

‘LipoSelection’ is a trade term that is associated with VASER, the advanced ultrasound technology that emulsifies body fat. Unlike traditional liposuction methods, it can be used on densely fibrous areas such as the back.

‘Liposculpture’ is the term used for the technique of using superficial liposuction technology to define the patient’s muscles.

How does VASER Liposelection differ from normal liposuction?

Liposuction has been around for about the last 35 years. Originally plastic surgeons used small cuts in the patient’s skin to suck away large amounts of unwanted fat. Before this, the only way to remove fat was to cut it out, which left horrible, unsightly scarring.

More recently a system of liposuction that uses sophisticated ultrasound technology has been introduced. This is known as VASER Liposuction, or ‘Liposelection’ as it is sometimes known by its trade term.

VASER Lipo breaks down the fatty tissue in the body by using ultrasound. This turns it into a liquid and it is drained away using a cannula. Because VASER uses a non-invasive technology to liquefy the fat, it does not damage any other surrounding nerves or tissue. This means that there is far less bruising and swelling than conventional liposuction.

Will I have tighter skin after using VASER LipoSelection?

VASER is a medical device that uses ultrasound technology to liquefy the fat cells, with much less damage to surround tissues than traditional methods of liposuction. Those clinicians using VASER Lipo say that it does increase the tightening of the skin and reduces the amount of loose skin that follows conventional lipo. The results of VASER LipoSelection include a smoother skin and greater body contouring.

What are the possible risks or side effects of VASER?

It’s a reasonable question, should you be concerned about the risks or the potential side effects? VASER is now known as a safer, less invasive form of lipo and we’ve yet to find a patient that regretted undergoing this terrific new procedure.

The side effects can include swelling, bruising and some fat drainage during the recovery period. But because VASER uses ultrasound technology, it does not damage the surrounding tissues and therefore, patients do not have to put up with the same level of pain, swelling and bruising that normal liposuction causes.

Which areas of the body does VASER Liposelection work best on?

Cosmetic physicians have achieved great success using VASER ultrasound technology to remove emulsified fat from many different areas of the body. We have had excellent success removing unwanted fatty tissue from the following areas:

Abdomen, Thighs, Knees, Buttocks, Hips, Arms, Male Breast Area, Love Handles, Chin and Neck areas.

However, due to the safe, non-invasive method that VASER uses, we perceive that it can be used on practically any area of the body where unwanted fat is stored.

How long will it take to see the results of VASER Liposelection?

You will see immediate results, although there is a minor amount of swelling for about a week after the procedure. When the swelling reduces and any bruising clears up, the results will become clear. Within the six months after the VASER lipo treatment, the collagen in the skin will grow and the skin surrounding the area will tighten to fit your next sculpted shape.

Are the results of VASER lipo permanent?

Let’s be clear about the type of results that you are seeking. Liposuction or LipoSelection are not for weight loss. They reduce the amount of body fat by emulsifying the existing fat and draining it out of the body as a liquid.

Those patients that are significantly disappointed with any kind of lipo procedure are those that put on considerable weight after their treatment. Remember, when you lose fat through lipo treatments, you can still put the weight back on. You should combine any treatment with a healthy diet and exercise regime for the greatest future success.

For more information on Vaser Lipo, or to book a consultation, contact Dr Ravi Jain of Riverbanks Clinic on 01582 762 877 or visit our website at http://www.riverbanksclinic.co.uk

Breast Augmentation with Macrolane makes it to the US!

2009-06-22T09:01:00.000-07:00

Long since available in the UK, breast augmentation with Macrolane will be available in the US soon, according to cosmetic specialists Epione.

We're thrilled to have one of the top Macrolane breast enhancement surgeons working at Riverbanks Clinic, making small or saggy breasts a thing of the past for our patients.

Just look at the before and after results:

It's nice to see the US catching on to the fact that Macrolane gives a much more natural finish, is safer, and recovery time much shorter than 'traditional' cosmetic breast enhancement.

Sweatox - it's Botox for the underarms!

2009-06-22T07:04:00.000-07:00

When you hear the word 'Botox', it's all too easy to think of middle aged women getting rid of their wrinkles, but (as we've spoken about before) Botox has all sorts of uses, not just keeping the aging process at bay.

It's the time of year that embarrassing sweat patches can ruin a great day out, but Botox can help by freezing the nerves that are attached to sweat glands, thus eliminating the humiliation of 'great outfit, shame about the sweat stains'.

Whether you're plagued by hyperhydrosis, or simply get sweaty when hot, or nervous, then Botox could very wel be the answer for you.

It's a quick and easy process, effective and long lasting, and one that more and more people are turning to in the UK, where it's been dubbed 'Sweatox' by the press.

If you have problems with overactive sweat glands, and want to stay dry and fresh this summer, why not give it a go? Contact us to find out more.

Bigger breasts paid for by redundancy cheque.

2009-06-17T03:58:00.000-07:00

Dr Ravi Jain is quoted in this month's Company Magazine, in an article about women using their redundancy pay to fund cosmetic enhancements. The article talks about Lucy, a lady who decided to spend some of her redundancy money on increasing her breast size.

Dr Jain says: "We thought business would go down during the credit crunch because we thought women wouldn't pay for luxuries like breast enhancement, but it's the opposite. Women are coming in saying they've lost their job and for the first time have the money - and the time - to do what they've always wanted".

Hopefully, Lucy's increased breast size will lead to higher self confidence, and that will help her to find the job of her dreams!

If you would like to increase your breast size, non surgically and safely, then find out more about Macrolane breast enhancement at the Riverbanks Clinic website.

Thread lifts 'don't work' - but I still want a facelift!

2009-06-10T00:42:00.000-07:00

You may have read on Reuters recently that a popular type of face lift produces only short-lived improvement in appearance, and should no longer be used given its risks, poor results and discomfort for patients, or so conclude the authors of a long-term study of patients who underwent the procedure.

The surgery, a so-called "thread-lift," involves placing barbed threads under the skin and then tightening them to pull up drooping facial tissues.

It's an interesting read, showing that although improvement was still seen a month after the thread lift procedure, between 12 and 30 months later, the 'thread lift group' scored lowest out of 3 different groups tested.

Complications including visible knots and dimpling of skin were also noticed, leading the investigators to conclude that "thread-lifts carry a high risk of complications, while extensive scarring may make it difficult to remove the threads, which is problematic because studies have found up to 20% of patients need a repeat surgery".

So what to do if you want a little 'help', but don't like the idea of a short lasting, possibly disfiguring thread lift?

If you'd love a facelift, but don't like the idea of surgery, then we have 2 procedures that are ideal for you!

Accent® is a unique, multi-application, Radio Frequency (RF) based platform for the non-invasive treatment of wrinkles and sags. It is virtually painless and comparatively quick.

Treatments can be performed to treat loose, wrinkled skin anywhere on the body. The procedure is frequently used for toning thin, loose and crepe-like skin often found on the more mature face, neck and under the upper arm areas. It is also excellent for firming skin on the post-surgical or postnatal abdomen, chest, thighs or breasts.

Or, Sculptra non surgical facelift could be exactly what you’re looking for. Also known as the liquid facelift, Sculptra is an injectable treatment that restores volume to your skin, leaving your face looking fuller and younger. A natural non-surgical skin treatment that stimulates your skin, encouraging it to grow new collagen to give you a more youthful appearance.

Not sure which would be best? Why not give us a call, or fill in our 'call back' form and someone will give you a call back to discuss your needs.

Is Vaser liposuction worth it?

2009-06-09T15:35:00.000-07:00

Well according to 88% of visitors to RealSelf.com, the answer is yes, Vaser Liposuction was definitely worth it.

A great resource for anyone considering Vaser Liposelection, RealSelf features stories from people in America that have gone through the process in order to get rid of love handles, firm stomachs, say goodbye to man boobs and more.

We know that our clients are pleased with the results of their Vaser treatment, because our comprehensive aftercare program means that they are called personally to make sure that they're no less than thrilled with the results, and we feature some of our testimonials on our website:

"I have always hated my thighs, especially even after losing a lot of weight, my thighs were still large. I was recommend to Riverbanks Clinic by a friend, and I discovered Vaser Lipo. After my procedure, I was back at work the next day despite having a litre of fat removed from each thigh! I can now see my knees again! Thank you so much for adding the finishing touches to my long journey to achieving my goal", Suzie, Luton

“Thank you so much for my amazing Vaser Lipo treatment, I'm chuffed with the results!”
Lucy S, Somerset

See our testimonials page for more!

The truth about cellulite

2009-06-09T02:19:00.000-07:00

It’s a disconcerting matter, but over 90% of women will develop Cellulite. There are many myths surrounding the topic, but in this article, we’ll reveal the real truth about Cellulite.

Cellulite is the term used when fatty deposits become trapped under the skin, giving it a rather unpleasant puckered and dimpled look, often compared to orange peel or cottage cheese.

Cellulite generally appears around the abdomen, thigh and pelvic area. It has four different medical names: adiposis edematosa, dermopanniculosis deformans, status protrusis cutis and gynoid lipodystrophy.

Types of Cellulite

There are three types of Cellulite:

Class 1 – no medical symptoms but under laboratory conditions, anatomical change is present.

Class 2 - the skin is pallid and demonstrates decreased elasticity, along with signs of Class 1.

Class 3 - the Cellulite has a coarse texture, along with signs of Class 1 and 2.

What are the Causes of Cellulite?

There are many factors that influence the build up of Cellulite in the body:

Hormones

Female hormones estrogen and progesterone play an important part in determining the amount and location of fat cells throughout the body. Estrogen encourages the development of fat around the breasts, thighs and buttock area. Progesterone makes things worse by retaining fluid and causing weight gain.

Genetics

Some people genetically inherit a body that is more prone to the condition of Cellulite. This means that they have a greater number of fat cells, poor circulation, and weak lymphatic vessels and veins.

Lifestyle

Unhealthy lifestyles increase the chances of someone getting Cellulite. An inactive lifestyle can affect your blood circulation, your veins and lymphatic system. Clearly, an unhealthy and/or inactive lifestyle can also cause weight gain that further exacerbates Cellulite. Although skinny people aren’t immune to Cellulite, obese people are much more likely to suffer from it. In an overweight person, the existing fat pushes the Cellulite outwards towards the skin, worsening the already unpleasant appearance.

Smokers are already aware of the potential negative effects that their habit has on their health. However, not everyone knows that smoking can lead to Cellulite. Chemicals in the cigarettes damage the veins and capillary walls, constrict blood flow and reduce circulation, all of which increase the likelihood of Cellulite.

Prolonged periods of high stress cause the body to store up fat around the stomach, thighs, hips and buttock regions, this can add to the chances of Cellulite build up.

No matter the cause, Cellulite can be an unsightly and embarrassing condition for women and even some men. For this reason, cosmetic procedures have become available to help this visually displeasing condition.

Treatment of Cellulite

Many people wrongly believe that Cellulite is untreatable. Women no longer need to suffer in silence when it comes to Cellulite.

One of the most effective solutions to combat Cellulite is called Accent Radiofrequency Skin Tightening. It is an advanced radiofrequency technology that attacks the fatty deposits through the skin. Accent heats the fat and removes it through increased circulation and then tightens and tautens the skin, giving it a smoother appearance.

To discuss this new confidence-boosting solution to Cellulite, with a qualified physician, contact Dr Ravi Jain at Riverbanks Clinic today and say goodbye to Cellulite.

Botox isn't just Amanda Holden!

2009-06-04T13:39:00.000-07:00

It always surprises people when I tell them that Botox isn't just a great a nti wrinkle treatment, it's also used in the medical profession at times.

So it's nice to see this piece in the Times about Australian stroke victim Russell McPhee, who is walking again for the first time in 20 years, thanks to the aid of Botox.

Mr McPhee, now 49, had a stroke at the age of 26 and was left in a wheelchair and unable to walk.

It's still early days, but he can now walk the length of a room with help, and 100 metres with a walking frame, which is fantastic news.

It's nice to see a good story in the press - Botox isn't just Amanda Holden!

VASERLipo vs. Traditional Liposuction

2009-06-03T04:39:00.000-07:00

VASER Lipo is currently considered to be the globally preferred choice for patients considering undergoing a liposuction procedure. Also known as LipoSelection, it is an advanced method of contouring the body and removing unwanted body fat with selective precision.

It is a preferred alternative to the harsh methods of traditional liposuction because it uses the very latest technology, utilising ultrasound to lightly reshape your form. What significantly differentiates VASER Lipo from the traditional methods of liposuction is that VASER’s technology allows it to be used to target unwanted fatty tissue whilst nerves, blood vessels and other tissue untouched. This allows for smooth results and a swift recovery for the patient.

Conversely, traditional liposuction is not such a pleasant experience for the patient. Traditional liposuction employs a metal tube that the doctor has to manually manipulate inside the patient’s body. This can often lead to a great deal of bleeding, swelling and the destruction of surrounding tissue. Because VASER Lipo involves the precise use of ultrasound technology, the same problems simply does not occur, leading to a quicker, safer and less invasive procedure.

One of the biggest problems with traditional liposuction is that after the procedure, the person could still have loose skin. This could only be resolved by cutting the skin away. With VASER Lipo, the skin can naturally tighten after the procedure to produce a more sculpted look.

VASER Lipo procedures do not require general anaesthesia. There is no surgery, so the risks are greatly lowered and recovery times greatly increased.

Because the VASER Lipo treatment emulsifies the fat, it is simply suctioned away as a liquid, rather than the more traumatic traditional approach of sucking lumps of fat from the body. Sometimes a small amount of liquid fat is absorbed back into the body, but blood tests show it does not enter the bloodstream.

With traditional liposuction procedures, the patient may require several months in bandages. With VASER Lipo, people can go back to work within a few days. They will wear bandages for a few weeks, but that’s nothing compared to healing and recovery times of ordinary traditional liposuction.

The results of VASER Lipo are permanent, meaning that the body does not regenerate removed fat cells. Some of the other top advantages of VASER Lipo are:

1. No overnight stay in hospital required
2. Procedure under local anaesthetic
3. Limited discomfort and quick recovery times
4. Minimal bleeding or bruising
5. Safest and most effective procedure available

VASER Lipo is suitable for use on fatty areas all over the body and is currently used to remove fat from areas such as the neck and chin area, breasts, chest and arms, thighs, hips and buttocks, and the stomach and waist. It is a versatile non-invasive approach to removing unwanted fat and sculpting the body for a more pleasing physical appearance.

VASER Lipo is a safe and quick alternative to traditional liposuction with little discomfort and incredible results.

Dr Jain is Medical Director at Riverbanks Clinic, a double award-winning cosmetic medical practice based in Harpenden, Herts UK, where he provides a number of treatments including Botox, fillers, facial recontouring and body recontouring. Dr Jain's Clinic is renowned for its excellence and won ‘Best New Clinic' and ‘Best Business Development' in the 2009 Aesthetic Medicine Awards.

Dr Ravi Jain qualified from the Royal London Hospital in 1995 and has since held posts at The Royal London, St. Bartholomew's and St. Mary's Hospitals. Early in his career he trained in gynaecological laparoscopic surgery before training as a GP. He now specialises exclusively in cosmetic dermatology and minor surgery.

What women like about men and more male beauty stats!

2009-06-01T06:52:00.000-07:00

Well, according to Extreme Male Beauty:

86% of women said that a man's face is more important than his body
79% of women said most important part of mans face is his eyes
83% of women prefer their men non-hairy
46% of women would have sex with a man with a nice face but a rubbish body
There was a 9% rise in eye bag surgery on men last year
Men spent £100 million on hair replacement treatments last tear
20,000 men had hair replacement transplants last year
There was a 47% rise in men having Botox injections last year

We'd love to hear the thoughts of women (and men!) below!

20 Treatments you can do in your lunch hour

2009-05-28T04:19:00.000-07:00

Patients are opting for less radical cosmetic treatments in order to reduce the time taken off work to recover due to fear of losing their jobs in the recession. Dr Ravi Jain Medical Director of award-winning Riverbanks Clinic explains about the top 20 treatments that you can now do in your lunch hour.

1) Frown reducing treatment with Botox
2) Botox brow lift
3) Y-lift
4) Lip enhancements
5) Crow’s feet
6) Macrolane breast augmentation
7) Sclerotherapy of threadveins
8) IPL for Roseaca and sun damage
9) Hand rejuvenation with Radiesse
10) Lift those lines with dermal fillers
11) Diamondtome Microdermabrasion with Omnilux phototherapy
12) Treat excessive sweating with Botox
13) Relieve tension headaches with Botox
14) Mole/skin tag removal
15) Tummy tightening with Accent Spa RF
16) Painless laser hair removal
17) Lift those mouth corners with Botox & dermal fillers
18) Teeth whitening in 45 mins with Zoom
19) Advanced Lactic Acid Skin peel
20) Smartxide DOT therapy to the décolleté & face

To read this article in full click here

Riverbanks Clinic welcomes top Macrolane breast surgeon Jonquille Chantrey

2009-05-27T02:26:00.000-07:00

Multi-award winning non-surgical cosmetic clinic Riverbanks has announced that leading Macrolane Breast Specialist Surgeon Miss Jonquille Chantrey has joined the team at Riverbanks to provide Macrolane breast enhancements.

Miss Chantrey, who is thought to be one of the UK's top Macrolane Breast Specialist Surgeons, has already started consulting with patients at Riverbanks Clinic and will head up Macrolane breast enhancement procedures at the Clinic.

Dr Jain, Medical Director at Riverbanks Clinic is delighted that Miss Chantrey has joined the consulting team and believes that her skills and expertise match the ethos of the Harpenden-based Clinic perfectly, which recently scooped 'Best New Clinic' and 'Best Business Development' at the Aesthetic Medicine Awards.

You can read the full press release here.

Macrolane Breast Enhancement

2009-05-26T01:55:00.000-07:00

Looking at the Macrolane breast enhancement page on our website, I didn't feel that it conveyed just how great this fantastic service is, so I've rewritten it to let people know the benefits:

No Surgery – No Scars
Takes Only 30-45 minute – Walk In/Walk Out
Requires Only a Local Anaesthetic – Low Risk
Minimal Recovery Time – Little or No Bruising
Biodegradable Substance - Further Minimising Risk
Rapid Results – Buy a New Bra on the Way Home
Natural Look – Natural Feel

So if you're thinking of enhancing your breast shape in 2009, why not find out more about us now?

"Manboobs made my life a misery..."

2009-05-21T06:21:00.000-07:00

The Sun recently covered the story of 24 year old Lee Jardine, who developed man boobs at the age of 13.

At the worst point, he was able to fill a Dcup bra, and it wasn't until one of his relatives read about his plight in the newspaper that he had the money to get rid of them.

In the interview he says: "At school, the other lads laughed at me changing after PE, calling me 'pretty boy' and pointing. The bullying got so bad over the next couple of years that I just walked out and never came back. My confidence was rock bottom."

You could, of course, have surgery – but there is a cost to that in time, discomfort and money. What you may not know is that you can remove man-boobs without surgery and go right back to work without anyone being the wiser – except they’ll think you’ve lost a few pounds and may have been working out.

Our non invasive technique:

• Reduces the fat content – permanently,

• Tightens the skin,

• Is relatively painless,

• Has minimal recovery time (hours, rather than weeks)

• And costs less than half as much as the surgical procedure.

As I said in this article from the Daily Star:

"Patients are increasingly realising that there are alternative treatments out there which mean they don’t have to take extended time off.

Botox - not just for foreheads

2009-05-18T23:39:00.001-07:00

It's interesting to see people's reactions to the word 'Botox'. It's usually instantly thought of as something celebs use to get rid of their frown lines, but there's so much more that it can be used for (an article on this is in the pipeline).

Which is why it was nice to read this piece today about little Romy Raye. Romy was born prematurely weighing just 1pound 3 ounces, and has Cerebral Palsy. The form of CP that she has means that her leg muscles contract, and the Botox helps to stop that becoming permanent. The results last around 3 months, and little Romy seems to be doing well, if the gorgeous pictures are anything to go by!

An inspirational blog - if you have some time I highly recommend it.

10 Worst Celebrity Surgery Mishaps

2009-05-18T11:42:00.000-07:00

Celebrities in the limelight turn to plastic surgery to keep them looking young and beautiful. Unfortunately, for these TEN celebrities, they discovered what happens when their plastic surgeries go drastically wrong:

1) Joan Rivers – Frozen Face

She’s still one of America’s funniest comedians, but Rivers’ multiple cosmetic surgeries have left her with a permanently frozen expression – and that’s no laughing matter.

2) Donatella Versace – Queen of the Freak Show

Donatella’s gone from Queen of Fashion to Queen of the Freaks with her botched facelift. Sadly after all the surgeries, she ended up looking like the cat-walked right over her.

3) Tara Reid – Just Unlucky (Twice)

Actress Tara Reid was looking for a six-pack when her liposuction went disastrously wrong, leaving her with the wrinkly stomach of a pensioner. To add insult to injury, she underwent substandard breast augmentation that she herself described as the ‘ugliest boobs in the world’.

4) Hilary Duff – Why the Long Face?

Pretty Hilary Duff doesn’t look like someone that needs surgery, but that didn’t stop her from undergoing a failed cosmetic dentistry procedure that’s given her an expression straight from the horse’s mouth.

5) Vivica A. Fox – Wonky

Kill Bill actress Vivica really was A Fox until her wonky boob job left her deflated. Poorly fitted implants have given her an odd-shaped cleavage, not the look she was going for.

6) Michael Jackson – The Man in the Mirror

Whacko Jacko has always made a spectacle out of himself, but his well-publicised surgeries have taken him from cute singing dream to botched surgery nightmare. The one time Prince of Pop is now little more than the King of Freaks.

7) Janet Jackson – Bumper Botch

Like brother, like sister – Janet Jackson’s nightmare boob job resulted in grossly misshapen breasts that need a mechanic to hammer out the dents!

8) Priscilla Presley`

The one-time wife of Elvis fell foul of a bogus plastic surgeon that injected her in the face with industrial silicon that body shops use to lubricate car parts! He went to jail for 18 months, she got a frozen face for life.

9) Leslie Ash – Trout Pout

Leslie Ash was an attractive actress and former fashion model until surgery on her lips left her with a trout pout, and made her the laughing stock of the British Media.

10) Jocelyn Wildenstein – Cat Woman

The truth behind Jocelyn’s ridiculous surgeries may never be known, but one report claims that she has tried to make herself look more like the exotic wild cats that her husband admires. It’s alleged that she’s spent over $4 million on various surgeries, perhaps she should ask for a refund…

So how to avoid these celebrity mishaps?

Non-invasive options like VASER Lipo are a safe alternative to plastic surgery. VASER Lipo involves no surgery and due to its use of ultrasound technology involves little bruising and swelling. Under skilful application by a highly qualified and experienced doctor, you can experience the benefits of liposuction without the pain and potential mishaps of surgery.

More about the 'Buy Botox Online' horror

2009-05-14T02:53:00.000-07:00

I spoke a little about this in 'Fake Botox Kits For Sale On Ebay', but as more and more online publications report the issues, I wonder whether the headlines will deter people from buying, or make people realise that they can buy these kits online?

The Daily Mail does a good job of scaring people away from this horrific trend, with their 'Poison-by-post.com; the terrifying trend that could paralyse, blind or even kill you' headline.

The article states "The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) admits it cannot stop Botox being sold from countries outside Britain as it is outside its jurisdiction. It can take action only against British companies, or those advertising on a British-based website, which are selling it without a prescription."

So, what can we do? Well I think that educating people that the best and safest way to use Botox (whether to combat wrinkles or any other use) is to see a licensed practitioner in a renowned clinic, not to buy a dodgy kit from the Internet and try to do it yourself.

Riverbanks clinic is an award winning clinic, with plenty of press coverage. I am quoted in many publications, both on and offline, and pride myself on my qualifications and my dedication to getting good results for my patients.

When I think of how a patient feels when they come to our clinic and see our professional setup, and talk to me and my staff, and how someone in front of a bathroom mirror with a syringe of who-knows-what in their hand, I know which one I'd rather be!

To find out more about our Botox treatments, visit our website at http://www.riverbanksclinic.co.uk

Riverbanks Clinic in the Press

2009-05-12T08:18:00.000-07:00

A quick round up of just some of our Press exposure in April 2009:

Great Plastic Surgeons quoted Dr Ravi Jain in their article "Recession Causing Trend Towards Facelift Quickies"

"Patients are increasingly realizing that there are alternative treatments out there, which mean they don't have to take extended time off work and jeopardize their job security in order to maintain their beauty regime, most of which cost considerably less than traditional cosmetic surgery, too," said Dr Jain.

Spa Secrets Magazine featured news of our fantastic Aesthetic Medicine Awards for 'Best New Clinic' and 'Best Business Development' - this was featured in a number of other publications too, including Hertfordshire Life.
Dr Ravi talked to The Mirror about Macrolane plumping injections and Vaser Lipo:

‘Macrolane tends to be chosen by women nervous about surgery,’ says Ravi Jain, Medical Director at Riverbanks cosmetic clinic. ‘They may be an A cup and want to go up a size, or want a more rounded bottom.’

Company Magazine recommended Riverbanks Clinic for painless laser hair removal.

5 Things You Didn't Know About Vaser Lipo

2009-05-12T06:57:00.000-07:00

I've posted an article on our website entitled 5 Things You Didn't Know about Vaser Lipo - it may be of interest to those of you not familiar with this great cosmetic procedure.

In it I cover:

What is Vaser Lipo?
What's the difference between Vaser Lipo and traditional liposuction?
How much fat can be removed?
What does the procedure of Vaser Lipo involve?
What are the recovery times for Vaser Lipo?

You can read the article in full here: 5 Things You Didn't Know About Vaser Lipo

Is scarring inevitable after cosmetic surgery?

2009-05-12T06:37:00.000-07:00

It's sad to see that a woman in Wales is taking her cosmetic surgeon to court after suffering from scarring after having a facelift and eye surgery in 2005.

The woman says she is now embarrassed to be seen in public and claims that she has been left with prominent scarring around the eyes and the ears. She says she has also experienced numbness of the face and a 'lack of symmetry' on the left side of her face. To hide the scarring she has had to grow her hair long.

It's a sad story, but scarring is a real risk people must consider when choosing surgery. Lots of elements can affect the risk of scarring. Wound infections often cause the worst scars but in some cases, some people will scar badly no matter what. Bad scarring is very rare. If it was more common – cosmetic surgery would not exist.

There are some methods to reduce the risks:

LED Phototherapy – we use the Omnilux system which has proven capabilities speeding up wound healing and scar reduction
Fractional Laser resurfacing –we use Smartxide DOT
Topical creams – such as Vitamin C serums and HEAL cream
Stiching techniques
Incision placements
Compression garments

One of the most important parts of our service is the aftercare of our patients, and we're thrilled to have the success rate that we have, and very happy customers!

Macrolane breast specialist joins Riverbanks Clinic!

2009-05-12T05:51:00.000-07:00

At Riverbanks Clinic, we are delighted to announce that we have one of the most experienced Macrolane Specialists in the country. Our newest addition is a plastic surgeon whose breast augmentations with Macrolane are natural, long lasting and probably the best in the country if not the world. Her patients are extremely satisfied and travel from all over the country.

You really can have the bust of your dreams for this summer with NO surgery. Fill out your bikini top with a fuller bust. Macrolane gives very natural looking results and the gel used is biodegradable, carries minimal risk and lasts for longer than other aesthetic gels.

Each individual treatment programme also includes a yearly top up as required to maintain patient expectation.

So to get the bust of your dreams, visit Riverbanks Clinic now and book your consultation!

Riverbanks Clinic – owned by Dr Ravi Jain. Multi-award winning clinic. Best New Clinic in the UK, Best Business Development.

"Man Boob" and "Beer Belly" Operations soar by 200%

2009-05-06T04:49:00.000-07:00

It's interesting to read in the Watford Observer today that there is a 200% rise in the number of men seeking plastic surgery on their bodies.

The main issues appear to be Gynaecomastia (also known as man boobs or 'moobs') and 'beer belly syndrome', leading men to look at male breast reduction and tummy tucks or liposuction.

And it seems that this is not just a localised issue; according to the same article:

- Nationally, around 175% more men aged over 70 are having surgery than five years ago
- The number for men over 40 years old has risen by 94%
- Men aged between 18 and 19 years old have had 116% more cosmetic procedures

We're finding that we're taking many more enquiries from men here at Riverbanks Clinic too, so here's a quick and handy guide to the procedures that may help:

* Moobs / Man Boobs / Gynaecomastia - consider non invasive SmartLipo
* Unwanted fat - consider Accent and/or Smartlipo with aspiration
* Stretch marks - consider Accent with SmartXide
* Loose skin - consider Accent

Remember, our non invasive Man Boob removal means you could go to work straight afterwards, with no-one any the wiser!

Riverbanks Clinic May eNewsletter

2009-05-04T11:06:00.000-07:00

Our May eNewsletter is out, so if you want to find out more about:

Fantastic sun screen with an environmental protection factor of 95 and a sun protection factor of 30
How Suzanne is getting on after her surgery
Reversing the aging process with Sculptra
Dr Ravi in the news
Special offers on Diamondtone Micro-Skin Resurfacing and Omnilux LED Medical Phototherapy

Then read the eNewsletter online now!

And don't forget to sign up to receive future copies by visiting our Newsletter page.

Does cosmetic surgery have to mean going under the knife?

2009-05-01T02:11:00.001-07:00

At the age of 50, Janet Cunliffe decided that she wanted to do something about her appearance.

Her long term relationship had ended, she had moved in with her 22 year old daughter, and was desperately in need of something to cheer her up.

While many women would have settled for a new haircut or a fling with a toyboy, Ms Cunliffe decided to travel to Croatia and have cosmetic surgery on her lips, breasts, eyes and nose, to the tune of £10,000.

Money well spent? Well the papers are raving about how she looks just like her daughter, and you can see the results for yourself above.

I just can't help thinking that the operations and 'going under the knife' were unnecessary, and travelling to a foreign country to have these procedures is fraught with unknown dangers.

Maybe Ms Cunliffe didn't know that there is a much easier and safer way?

For example:

Macrolane breast enhancement could have given her the boob job of her dreams
Vaser lipo-selection and Smart Lipo could have contoured her body and got rid of her cellulite
Botox anti-wrinkle treatment could have smoothed out any wrinkles and crow's feet around the eyes
Nose mouth and chin treatments don't have to be invasive
And we could have offered her teeth whitening too!

It's great that she has a new lease of life, and I wish her all the best, but whenever I hear of a woman putting herself through cosmetic surgery and the resultant recovery period, I wish someone had told her about Riverbanks Clinic.

DIY fake Botox kits for sale on Ebay

2009-04-29T14:14:00.000-07:00

The Metro alerts its readers today to the fact that DIY fake Botox kits were being sold on auction site eBay before being removed after complaints.

For just £62, eBay users could buy a kit containing powder, needles and a face map.

The kits were available from the US and the original report was filed by Which? editor Sarah Kidner, who says "We were appalled we were able to buy a DIY kit so easily, and we are concerned the internet is becoming a marketplace for cut price cosmetic treatments.

I have to say I'm shocked that these kits were allowed on eBay in the first place. Botox, while perfectly safe in a qualified and professional environment, really shouldn't be attempted by amateurs.

If you're tempted to buy a cut price Botox kit from anywhere, please think twice - the results may not be the results you were looking for, and it could cost a lot more to fix, if it can be treated at all.

Always use a qualified medical professional for any Botox treatment.

Advanced Priori could help Eczema suffers

2009-03-23T01:03:00.000-07:00

Having seen this news item this morning, I must admit Eczema used to be one of my most common diagnoses when I was a GP. I believe the cause was primarily excessive washing and use of deteregents and soaps, coupled with very hard water in the area. People very rarely realised that the water and soap actually dried the skin out and caused irritable skin.

Prevention really is better than cure. So hydrating the skin effectively is essential. Over the counter moisturisers will in effect create a barrier and reduce how much water is evaporated from the skin, but they are not very effective at actually increasing the amount of water in the skin itself. This is where cosmeceutical creams which contain products such as glyocolic or lactic acid work well, as these chemicals actually increase the amount of water deep at the cell levels in the skin.

I have seen several patients with dry, scaly skin and they have tried even the strongest of steroid creams and emoillents from the GP without success. After just a couple of weeks with Advanced Priori Hand & Body Lotion, the skin has healed itself, obviating the need for steroids. This is because the Priori products contain high percentages of Lactic Acid which doesn’t irritate the skin but does add moisture.

Remember, it is always advisable to see a skin specialist before embarking on any treatments, even lotions such as Advanced Priori.

Anna's reaction to Smartlipo is rare

2009-03-18T13:57:00.000-07:00

For any of you who saw Anna Richardson on Supersize vs. Superskinny on Ch4 last night, you may have heard her comments regarding her painful experience with Smartlipo.

Anna was not treated at my clinic but as an experienced practitioner in Smartlipo, it sounds to me like Anna had a complication during the procedure which is rare and unusual and must not be regarded as normal. Any surgical and minor surgical procedure does carry some risks which she should have been advised upon, and despite these risks being small, they can still happen as in her case. A repeat procedure at a later date would correct the unevenness.

However, I suppose it does show that the procedure does work as the other arm is noticeably skinnier!

Smartlipo and Vaserlipo are generally much safer procedures than traditional liposuction aslong as they are performed by suitably trained and experienced doctors, so always make sure you choose a practitioner who is skilled and experienced in the specific procedure you are interested in and performs the procedure regularly.

Dr Ravi Jain

Lose 2 dress sizes in 6 months with Vaser Lipo!

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Injectable Complete Solutions

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Juvederm? In Hertfordshire or Bedfordshire?

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Call 0800 0 325415 for further information or to book an appointment.

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Call Riverbanks Clinic on 01582 762877 or make an enquiry.

9 Signs of Sun-Induced Skin Damage

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Call 01582 762 877 or Request an Appointment

Embarrassed by your moobs?

The answer is Vaser Lipo – this non-invasive technique:

Fed up of lipstick bleed?

Find out how to get rid of thread veins!

Do you grind your teeth too much?

The New Moob: 90% of Male Patients Opting for New Ultrasonic Sculpting Treatment to Reduce Man Boobs

5 reasons to get rid of man boobs

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Dermaroller and Omnilux Testimonial - Riverbanks Clinic

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Simon Cowell - Waxing or laser?

Offers on Smartxide, Obagi, Dermal Fillers and Laser Hair Removal

Breast operation horror - could it have been avoided?

Get a mini facelift for just £600 with Radiesse!

Call us now on 01582 762 877 to book a free consultation with Dr Jain or fill out an online form to book an appointment or request more information.

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Beware the bogus Vaser claims!

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Danni Minogue: Botox helped me through my sister's cancer

Prevage MD Anti Aging Treatment - save £50 at Riverbanks!

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Transform your skin and take away the years!

Find out how the OBAGI NUDERM skin care system can transform your skin!

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A Vaser Lipo case study on Twitter!

Skin complaints and how to treat them - #5: Blood Blisters

Skin complaints and how to treat them - #4: Sun Damaged Skin

Skin complaints and how to treat them - #3: Rosacea

Skin complaints and how to treat them - #2: Age spots

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Olympia Beauty Show - come see Dr Ravi Jain speak!

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