Sunscreen is a crucial part of a healthy skincare routine. It helps protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays. When choosing a sunscreen, we recommend one with at least 30 SPF with broad band spectrum protection that can block both UVA and UVB rays. It should be applied generously to all exposed skin and reapplied every two hours. Sunscreen should be worn daily even when it is cloudy as the rays can still penetrate through and damage the skin. Using sunscreen regularly can help prevent sunburn, common signs of aging, as well as skin cancer. We have a variety of sunscreens to choose from here at the institute from our favourite lines, Vivier, ZO, and SkinCeuticals. 

Preparing for surgery can feel quite overwhelming. Here at the Institute, we like to ensure our
patients feel informed and confident prior to their big day. Let us give you some insight into how
to plan.

Review your pre and post care documents in detail. Our nurses always send instructions at the
time of booking. These include the dos and don’ts for both before and following surgery and
cover topics such as wound care, pain management, activity level and downtime. We recommend
printing these instructions to re-read before surgery. It is also a good idea to bring them to your
pre-op appointment. This appointment will give you the opportunity to bring forth questions to
Dr. Seal and his nursing team.

Following your surgery, you will be given several follow-up appointments and your wounds will
be closely monitored by our nurses. Keep these areas clean and ensure dressings remain intact
unless otherwise instruction. It is also important to avoid baths, hot tubs, and pools for 6 weeks
and refrain from any heavy lifting. If given prescriptions, take these as directed, maintain a
healthy diet and drink plenty of water.

Get moving, but don’t overdo it! Walking for short distances (even around your home) aids in the
wound healing process by brining blood flow to the area and lessening the chance of a blood
clot. Depending on the type of surgery, downtime is between 4-6 weeks. Please keep this in mind
as your body heals.

Our nursing team is always available for any questions or concerns. You will be given their
contact information for any questions or concerns. This contact information will be provided at
your pre-op appointment. Please reach out to them anytime.

What are the differences between Neurotoxins (Dysport, Botox) and Fillers:

Have you been considering getting neurotoxin or filler but are unsure which one is right for you? In this post, we will share a few differences between the two.

What is a Neurotoxin and how does it work?

Dysport/Botox injections use a purified form of botulinum toxin which is produced by a certain type of bacteria. These injections temporarily reduce underlying muscle activity that causes moderate to severe frown lines, crow’s feet and forehead lines. Some people worry they won’t look natural with neurotoxins. This is a myth. The purpose is to make your skin look more youthful and natural – just with fewer wrinkles.

When does it start working and how long does it last?

Dysport/Botox injections begin to work within a few days. You will not see the full effect until 14 days. It is not a permanent injectable treatment. For most people, the injections last approximately 3-4 months at which time you will notice an increase in muscle movement.

What are fillers and how do they work?

Over time, we lose hyaluronic acid – a naturally occurring sugar in the body. At our clinic, we use the Restylane portfolio of hyaluronic acid dermal fillers. These can be tailored to achieve the results you want. With filler, we can enhance the shape and definition for a balanced appearance or to improve natural contours. We are able to smooth away and soften lines, wrinkles and folds. By volumizing, we can restore the shape to the face and add fullness and definition.

What to expect during a consultation and treatment?

A consultation is a must prior to any treatment – this can take place at the same appointment. Even if you have had neurotoxins or filler previously, we will still review your medical history, discuss your goals and expectations and complete an assessment of your facial anatomy. We will inform you of all the potential risks and what to expect from your results. You may have some mild bruising, redness, or tenderness at the injection site. This will all be discussed at your consultation.

How long will my appointment take? Typically, you can plan to be at our clinic for 30-60 minutes depending on what you decide to have for injectables. For subsequent neurotoxin appointments, it can be done in approximately 15 minutes. This can be done during your lunch break! Filler appointments are usually booked for 1 hour, including subsequent ones. We encourage all injectable clients to book a 2 week follow up to evaluate results.

For those who are contemplating laser hair removal, here is some information you should know about the benefit of this treatment:
– Laser hair removal is perfect to get rid of unwanted hair on the body.
– It can help with issues such as ingrown hairs, which are prone to hyperpigmentation, especially in deep skin tones. Lasers used at our clinic provide safe and effective treatment.
– During laser hair removal, light is absorbed by the pigment in the hair which in turn heats the hair follicles that produce the hair. The damage will then delay future hair growth.
– Laser hair removal requires at least 6 to 8 treatments depending on the area you want to be treated.
– Different areas of the body may require treatment to be repeated within 4 to 8 weeks.

How to prepare for your laser hair removal appointment:
– a consultation prior to your treatment is encouraged. During the consult, we will review your medical history, including any medications that you currently take. We will also discuss possible side effects/risks, pricing, and any expectations the client may have.
– The client is asked to have the area shaved 24 hours prior to treatment. We ask that you avoid waxing and/or sugaring.
– Keep out of the sun and do not use self tanning products as they will impede on the results of your treatment.

After the treatment, you may notice some redness and swelling in the area for the first hour. You can use cold compresses to reduce discomfort. You should use a broad spectrum SPF 30 if planning to be in the sun afterwards.