REVIEW: Ultherapy Skin Lifting & Skin Firming Treatment at Halley Medical Aesthetics Singapore

 

While I have an aim to age beautifully and a constant desire for a slim V-shaped face, I cannot deny the effects of gravity that is causing some sagging on my face and double chin. While there are botox and fillers to resolve these (maybe a topic for another day), there is also an alternative non-surgical aesthetics treatment called Ultherapy, the only skin tightening treatment approved by the US FDA. 

  BUT FIRST, WHAT IS ULTHERAPY?

1. Using micro-focused ultrasound energy to lift the skin from within, accurately pin-pointing at a depth of 1.5mm, 3.0mm and 4.5mm underneath the skin, to target the dermis and SMAS layer, without disrupting the surface.
2. Triggers the body’s own natural healing process to lift, tone and tighten loose skin via the micro-focused ultrasound energy heating up the facial tissue. This stimulates the collagen growth within your body.
3. Helps to redefine the contours of your whole face or any targeted concerned areas, such as eyebags, forehead/temples, cheeks, jowl area, brow area, under the chin area, neck and chest.
   

 

MY FIRST-EVER ULTHERAPY EXPERIENCE

Consultation at Halley Medical Aesthetics clinic: It was a fruitful appointment with the aesthetics doctor - Dr Mark Lim. He listened to my concerns, analysed my face and pointed out areas where some improvements can be made (In fact, so much to do on my face! Signs of ageing!). 

 

 

 

Dr Mark shared the various treatment solutions offered at Halley Medical Aesthetics to address my concerns (Sagging skin on face and double chin)... One of it being Ultherapy. He patiently explained what this treatment is and showed some information and Before/After photos of Ultherapy.

 

 

Check out some questions on Ultherapy which I asked Dr Mark in the video below:

 

Reasons why I decided to go ahead with Ultherapy:

1. Zero downtime
2. Non-invasive and FDA-approved treatment
3. Natural process over a span of 3 months… Just in time to look my best for my important event happening soon (aka Wedding).
4. Lasts for about ONE YEAR. (To consider as an annual anti-ageing aesthetics regime, maybe?)
5. To tone and lift my sagging skin (including brow area to give my eyes a more “energetic” look) , to have a more defined jawline, reduce fine lines and wrinkles, and to firm up my chubby cheeks area.

 

Experiencing Ultherapy for the First Time:

To reduce any discomfort, painkillers were prescribed for my consumption, followed by the cleansing and numbing cream application on my face by the therapist. Dr Mark Lim applied a layer of gel onto the treatment areas before starting on the treatment. Basic skincare was also applied after the treatment. 

 

 

Ultherapy actually utilises a See-Plan-Treat protocol (“SPT”), which basically means that Dr Mark Lim uses real-time ultrasound imaging technology to SEE the targeted area using visualisation technology, in order to PLAN the treatment map for the targeted area, so as to TREAT the areas with proper treatment techniques. Hence, ensuring the safe delivery of micro-focused ultrasound energy to where it is most beneficial for the best optimal results.

 

Here’s Dr Mark Lim explaining how the Ultherapy ultrasound imaging technology produces real-time imaging on the screen to see deep within the skin, to best deliver the “shots”. 

 

A total of 800 lines (or “shots”) were beamed into my face and under the chin area. The allocation of the number of shots was pre-planned by the doctor, whereby more lines were assigned to my left cheek since it is chubbier on this side.

 

 

Different transducers were used for the varying depths to best target the concerned areas. Halley Medical Aesthetics is one of the clinics with the full range of Ultherapy transducers in Singapore, which ensures that all areas of the face that are normally more difficult to reach with the typical large transducer can also be treated properly! 

 

 4.5mm Depth

 

3.0mm Depth

 

Some questions I had (which you may have too) before the treatment: 

Was it painful?

I would not say it is “painful”. Instead I experienced a hard intense “pressure” when the shots were beamed around my undereye and jaw areas, and felt the heat emitted from the transducer. Overall, it was quite comfortable, with that cool air constantly blown at my face, and I even found myself dozing off at some moments! 

How long is the treatment?

It depends on the treated areas. It took about 90 minutes for my whole face and under the chin area (Total: 800 lines - Machine screen indicates the number of shots having been administered).

 

Can I go about my daily activities after the treatment?

YES, YES, YES. Go back to work, go shopping or that buffet feast, or even to the gym (which was what I did after the appointment). No scars or bruisings, but I did notice slight swelling on my face for the first 2 days.

 

Last words:

Personally, I have already observed my face getting slimmer with a more defined jawline (even my friends noticed that!), but I still have the chubby cheeks with is most obvious whenever I smile widely. Will be posting my BEFORE/AFTER photos once I have my review session with them (3 months after Ultherapy treatment), and you can judge the differences yourself! ;)

 

Thank you Dr Mark Lim and the team from Halley Medical Aesthetics clinic. I am now one step closer to achieving the V-shaped face, while reducing signs of ageing! :p 

 

Halley Medical Aesthetics

277 Orchard Road 

Orchard Gateway #03-15

Singapore 238858

+65 6737 8233

Botox Review: Non-Surgical Jaw Slimming by Kowayo Aesthetic for a V-Shape Face

ADVERTORIAL

It is important to love how you look naturally, but there may be some parts of your appearance that you wish to enhance. For me, it is my face shape. I always want a more defined face, that V-shaped face (also known as瓜子臉) which is very much desired by many. That is why I recently did Botox for a slimmer face and more contoured jawline at Kowayo Aesthetic.

I cannot deny that I have contemplated on invasive surgeries such as jaw reduction (aka shaving of jaw bone). BUT I am not gutsy enough and would not want something permanent. Who knows, I may regret one day? Most importantly, I have always been happy with my natural features, that I do not want to alter it for good, for life. That was why I rejected a sponsorship offer from a Korean plastic surgery clinic (though they offered any procedures I want) previously.

Much research on the credentials of the aesthetic doctor, clinic and products used is always a MUST before getting any aesthetic procedures. Even though this botox treatment was sponsored, I did the necessary check to make sure I would be in safe hands. You do not want a blotched job, right? :)

ABOUT KOWAYO AESTHETIC

'Kowayo' translates to 'be pretty' in Korean, is envisioned to be a one-stop station for a prettier you. Kowayo Aesthetic prides itself on the provision of comfortable and personalized service for well-heeled customers. The clinic is helmed by Dr Wong Kee Seng. A seasoned veteran in the aesthetic arena, he will customize a set of fuss-free non-invasive procedures to achieve your desired results

Dr Wong's accreditation
- Physician registered by Singapore Medical Council (SMC)
- Post-grad qualification MRCP from the Royal College of Physicians, United Kingdom
- Diploma of Practical Dermatology in Cardiff, UK
- Member of the American Academy of Aesthetic Medicine

Read on to find out more about my experience

at Kowayo Aesthetic with Doctor Wong!

Filling up Patient's profile card

The nurse then led me to the consultation room and I met with Dr Wong. I confided about my face shape concern. He examined my face and found that my masseter muscle was hard. It gets bigger by 'exercising' it via chewing food and teeth grinding, causing the face to look rounder and bigger. Dr Wong explained that a masseter botox treatment will soften/relax the muscle, and other suitable procedures to get the results I yearn for.

For my case, Dr Wong proposed the following:
- Masseter Botox: To slim and contour jawline
- Nose Fillers: Gives a sharper midline of face (distinct nose bridge and tip), thus face looks slimmer.
- SygmaLift: To tighten and rejuvenate facial skin

Before I was led into the treatment room, I was brought to take photos at varying angles. They are used for ‘Before and After’ comparisons, and yes, kept confidential.

MASSETER BOTOX: The Process

I never had needles poking into my face, unlike in the arms for blood tests and glucose drips. Of course, I was worried on the pain factor despite having a high threshold for it, but Dr Wong assured me. 

First, the nurse disinfected the skin and iced my jaw area for a minute or two. Next, Dr Wong instructed me to clench my teeth to feel the muscle… And then to relax after pin-pointing the exact spot to inject. Finally, he injected a few times into each side of my jaw. During the whole time, Dr Wong would check to see if I was feeling alright.

MASSETER BOTOX: Post-Botox

The botox session happened so quickly (Less than 5 minutes), hassle-free, and with no numbing cream needed!  No wonder Botox is known as one of those ‘Lunchtime Quick-Fixes’! The pain was very minimal. I continued with my appointments after leaving the clinic. However, I felt that my face looked abit puffy (like when you have water retention), which is actually one of the side effects that one may have.

During my review session with Dr Wong 2 weeks later, I shared that my face was not as "V" as I hoped it would be. He told me to wait for at least a month to see the full results as the change is gradual.

2 months later? My thoughts?
My face shape looks more defined from side angles and I spot a more contoured jawline for sure. I never preferred taking photos from one side profile (Guess if it's the left or right?), as I feel my cheek/jawline looks roundish from that side. But now, I spot a more contoured jawline, almost symmetrical in my opinion, and I am elated! However, I feel that it could be more "V" from the frontal view (or is it I have unrealistic expectations?). Maybe it is due to my puffy cheeks or facial fats? I guess the SygmaLift treatment may help it...

I do like my enhanced face shape, of course...

But here's a GIF of my ideal face shape, the 瓜子臉. Haha!

Which one is more suitable for me?

MASSETER BOTOX: Post-treatment Photos

MASSETER BOTOX: After-Thoughts

I have never ruled out getting Botox, but I thought I would do it only in my 40s due to fine lines and wrinkles, instead of my 20s. That was definitely new to me, but it was something I really want - To get a more defined jawline.

Ever since I started making videos, I found myself being conscious of my self-perceived round face. Thought losing weight was the only way to lose those chubby cheeks, baby fats, whatever you call it. Turned out that it was partly the hard masseter muscle... And fine, fats (which the SygmaLift treatment will come in handy).

Since the Botox session, I need not spend much effort to find the best angles when taking photos and videos. Family and friends noticed the difference and asked if I have lost weight as my face looks slimmer, especially from the side angle. Some were surprised to hear that botox can help in this area of concern.

Getting my first ever Botox done in my life was such a breeze under the skilful hands of Dr Wong! As much as I love my natural facial features, I certainly welcome my slimmer face! This will not last a lifetime, but at least I am enjoying the effects for now. :)

MASSETER BOTOX: Good to Know / FAQs

I believe you will do your own extensive research before you embark on any aesthetics treatments. But here are possible questions you may have. You may contact me if you have questions, but the best people to ask are always the professionals. Of which, I recommend Dr Wong – For his knowledge and quick, painless skills!

(1) What is Botox?

The actual term for botox is ‘Botulinum Toxin’, which is a protein produced by Clostridium botulinum. Have no fear for it is NOT toxic if only small amounts are being administered. The brand, Dysport, is used at Kowayo Asthetics. 

(2) What is Botox usually used for?

Famously used to counter fine lines and wrinkles, botox can also help individuals with excessive sweating, migraines, brow lifting. And of course, the non-surgical method for a V-shape face.  

(3) Is it safe? Is it painful?

This has been approved by the health authorities, so no worries. Always divulge information of any allergies, previous Botox treatments, etc. Your doctor is the best person to decide if it is safe for you.

I felt nothing more than a prick when getting the Botox done.

(4) How long is the downtime?

No downtime at all. You may resume to your normal activities immediately after receiving treatment. 

(5) How long till I I can see the results?

You may see a slight difference within 1 week. For the full effect, it takes about 4-8 weeks, and that is when your face starts to be the slimmest!

(6) How long will it last?

It depends, but usually about 4-6 months, and some to 1 year.

(7) Are there side effects?

If injected correctly, most patients don’t have issues beyond minor redness, bruising, or swelling. If injected incorrectly, the Botox can spread too far and impact muscles it wasn’t intended to. That can cause effects like a droopy eyelid (RealSelf, 2017). A small amount of people may experience dizziness.

(8) Can I apply makeup after getting the Botox?

Sure! Apply your makeup, head out and party to celebrate your Victory... I mean your V-shaped face, and take more selfies!

(9) Any post-treatment care required?

It is best to avoid alcohol and heat/sun exposure  for a few days. Try not to rub/touch/massage the treated area to avoid the toxin from ‘shifting’. Finally, try not to work your masseter muscle too much – Avoid chewing on tough meat, teeth clenching or grinding if possible.

(10) Golden Question: How much does it cost?

Based on information provided, each session at Kowayo Aesthetic is priced affordably from SGD500. Price may differ based on treatment area.

Much thanks to Dr Wong of Kowayo Aesthetics and GotIdeas Group for this collaboration. Next up would be a blogpost for the Fillers treatment which I did as well. Stay tuned!
 

Kowayo Aesthetic

Located at: 1 Raffles Link, #01-03, Singapore 039393

Contact: +65 6884 4297 / enquiries@kowayo.com

Website: http://kowayoaesthetic.com 

Instagram: @kowayo_aesthetic

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/kowayoaesthetic

Disclaimer: Product and service was sponsored by Kowayo Aesthetic, but all thoughts and opinion remain my own. Always seek certified professionals’ advice before undergoing any aesthetics procedures.

Beijing 101 - Hair and Scalp Care Review

ADVERTORIAL

Being blessed with thick tresses all my life, I always feel that hair loss will be the least of my hair concerns. So when I was approached by Beijing 101 - The experts in solving/reducing hair loss issues, as well as other hair/scalp-related problems faced by their clients for the past three decades... I was skeptical HOW I can benefit from their hair treatments as I did not feel that I was losing 'too many hair' in my opinion.

Nevertheless, I gave it a go as I was curious about my scalp type and condition, and it would be an eye opener to do the hair and scalp analysis, just like how I always see in their advertisements) as it would be the first time to see my hair and scalp in such a microscopic view. Most importantly, given my recent discovery of those few strands of premature greying hair, as shared in my previous post, I know I needed to do something about it and seek the help from professionals, which in this case, is none other than Beijing 101!

Beijing 101 branch at Tiong Bahru Plaza

With a total of seven outlets conveniently located around Singapore, my treatment was done at Beijing 101's Tiong Bahru Plaza branch. Upon arriving, I filled up my personal particulars and did a quick tour of their vicinity and check out their displays of the various "Home Care" products they have for sale. I did a quick look at the types of premium-grade Chinese herbs they use during the hair and scalp treatment sessions and its respective benefits, which seek to solve hair problems in an integrative and harmonious way, aligning with Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) practices.

Some of Beijing 101 'home care' product range

CONSULTATION: Scalp Analysis

I was led into the consultation room, where my consultant, Mr Eken, did a thorough questionnaire to find out more about my lifestyle habits (such as sleeping time, fitness habits and food preference) and the hair concerns that I have, while I sipped on the cup of hot tea served to me.

Eken then shared about Beijing 101's history, the awards and accreditation received - Such as results from the Nielsen Survey where 9 out of 10 had experienced visible hair growth results after receiving hair treatments from Beijing 101. He also showed me images of different types of scalp and hair issues.

My eye-opener moment had arrived - Doing the hair and scalp analysis! Eken scanned through my head and pointed out some areas of my scalp which is more oily and with clogged pores. These issues seem unimportant now, but if left untreated, it can affect hair growth and may even lead to hair loss in future! Thankfully, I do not have a dandruff problem!

He also said that I have to be careful of the hairline near my temples, and proceeded to ask if I always style my hair into a ponytail or bun, which I replied 'Yes' to him. But inside of me, I was like, "WHOA! You can even tell!??!". I basically like to tie my hair in these two ways, especially if I am home, as I like to keep my hair away from my face.

Eken told me that my hair treatment session includes the following:

- Scalp Purification mask

- Herbal hair wash (Type of herbal shampoo and conditioner used is based on client's hair/scalp needs)

- Signature Meridian Herbal Treatment (4 different types of massage to choose from!).

On top of it, I would undergo a TCM consultation with their in-house certified TCM doctor. And to end it off, Eken will conduct another round of hair and scalp analysis. Yay to more eye-opener moments!

I did my hair treatment in the VIP room.

It was like I am in my own private salon,
in complete privacy and tranquility! :)

Warm towel and refreshments served
while I did my treatment

Deep Cleansing Scalp Treatment: PuriScalp Mask

Applied onto my hair roots, followed by a quick massage,
and left on for about 20 minutes.

 

This mask helps to:
- Balance the hair's pH level
- Cleanse hair bulbs
- Remove oil clogs and sebum
- Provides vital nutrients to hair follicles

Enjoyed the nice minty sensation by
the Deep Cleansing Scalp Treatment

Deep Cleansing Scalp Treatment: Herbal Hair Wash and Massage

After 20 minutes, the mask was washed off at my own private hair washing area. My hair therapist, Jessica, lathered my hair with the selected range of their in-house shampoo, followed by hair conditioner.

She used the shampoo and conditioner from the "Nourishing" range. FYI, the range that the hair therapist uses on your hair may differ from mine, as they will select based on one's head and scalp needs and concerns.

The 'Nourishing' range serves to:
- Restore hair vitality
- Enhances hair texture and density.

Any hair wash is NEVER complete without a satisfying acu-point head massage. And my hair therapist nailed it. Boy, I felt so relaxed and refreshed after that! I was led back to my treatment seat where my hair was towel-dried and then blown-dry.

Head Massage during Beijing 101's Herbal Wash

 PuriScalp Mask Treatment: Award-Winning Hair Tonic

A vial of Beijing 101's award-winning herbal hair tonic was carefully and thoroughly applied to my hair roots around my scalp. There are various types of hair tonic to treat different types of hair and scalp concerns, but generally the hair tonic aids to kill bacteria, strengthen hair roots, increase melanin production, nourishes hair follicles and promotes blood circulation.

Hair Tonic Application

Beijing 101 Signature Meridian Herbal Treatment: Overall Well-Being

Beijing 101's signature Meridian Herbal Treatment, is a head massage consisting of 4 different types (Overall well-being, Tension, Stress and Sleeping Disorder) that one can select from. I chose the Overall Well-being Treatment as the massage techniques seem to be part of each of the above 4 types, so I gave that a shot.

The Meridian Herbal Treatment aids to:

- Promote hair growth and stronger hair

- Prevent hair loss and greying

- Relieves headaches, head tensions and migraines

- Improve sleep quality, alleviates insomnia

- Enhances memory

- Relieves fatigue

It was so relaxing...

TCM Consultation: Better health, Better Hair/Scalp Conditions

It was a pleasure to know that Beijing 101 is not only committed to using TCM methods in their products and treatments, but also to help improve their clients' overall health. Hence, in-house Certified TCM physicians provide consultations and advise on the health conditions.

My TCM physician did a pulse diagnosis and said that my 肠胃 (digestive system) is not good, which I am very much aware of. She asked questions pertaining to my health and habits, and gave much-appreciated advice. I also shared with her my premature greying hair concerns (albeit those few strands but it is startling!).

She told me that hair conditions reflect on:
(1) The health of one's internal organs like lungs, kidney, blood, stomach and liver
(2) Lifestyle such as insufficient sleep, stress and poor dietary habits. 

She promptly advised me to to have a diet rich in Zinc, Copper, Vitamin A and B, and of course, to have more sleep, haha!

POST-TREATMENT CONSULTATION: Scalp Analysis

To healthier and stronger hair!



To cleaner and healthier scalp!

 Scalp Analysis scan done to provide

a 'Before-and-After' comparison.

I was simply amazed with the vast
improvements of my scalp condition!

In the image below, it showed two out of three zones where the scanner captured microscopic shots of my scalp. In Scan #1, the clogged pores were miraculously removed from my hair follicles! Whereas in Scan #2, you can see in the After-picture that my scalp is no longer "glistening" with oil! What an improvement!

WOW!! All the 'findings' we had in the earlier scan were solved
in one treatment by Beijing 101!

I cannot imagine the great extent of my hair and scalp getting
healthier and  if I have more treatment sessions! That will be fabulous!

(As fabulous as Blackpink's Lisa)

If having healthier hair and scalp, while having incredible-looking hair for that classic *hair flick* is your kind of thing, Beijing 101 is offering a customised Scalp Renewal Treatment with Infrared Treatment for one person at a great deal of S$28 (Usual: S$420).
To grab this offer, call 6-5588-101 and quote "Feliza Ong".
Or simply click on this LINK to make your purchase now.

Tips from Beijing 101 on how to dry your hair the right way! 
Watch the video below! :)

To end this blogpost by sharing a quote I saw online -
Invest in your hair, for it is the crown you never take off.

'LIKE' and check out Beijing 101 Facebook page:
https://www.facebook.com/beijing101haircare.

*Disclaimer: This is an advertorial post, but all opinions remain my own*