Dr John Sharplessbrings Chiropractic Services to Ology Spa at Clarian North and West Medical Centers

Dr. John Sharpless, D.C. brings Chiropractic services to Ology Spa at Clarian North Medical Center in Carmel, Indiana. Dr Sharpless has over twenty years of chiropractic practice experience in Indiana and is an expert in spinal adjustment and manipulations. He is well known for his personal attention to each patient and individualizes treatments for each patient's unique needs. Beginning November 1, appointments can be scheduled for him by calling 814-4100. the addition of chiropractic services complements Ology's other wellness services including massage, hydrotherapy, acupuncture, and medical skin care.
Dr. Barry Eppley
http://www.eplpeyplasticsurgery.com
http://www.ologyspa.com
Clarian North Medical Center, Carmel, Indiana
Clarian West Medical Center, Avon, Indiana
Indianapolis

Dr. James Cook, Anti-Aging Medicine at Ology Spas in Indianapolis

Dr. James Cook, Anti-Aging Medicine Specialist at Ology Spas of Indianapolis, has formally completed and passed both the Fellowship Program and Board-Certification offered by the American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine. He is the only physician in the state of Indiana to be both fellowship-trained and board-certified in Anti-Aging Medicine. Dr. Cook is a clinical neurologist and Director of the Midwest Sleep Disorders lab and has practice neurologic medicine for over 20 years. He now provides consultations and treatments for Anti-Aging and Regenerative Medicine at both Ology Spas located at Clarian North Medical Center in Carmel, Indiana and Clarian West Medical Center in Avon, Indiana.

Anti-Aging and Regenerative Medicine is a relatively new medical specialty for the prevention, treatment, and reversal of health problems caused by both age and disease. Even in the face of continuing aging or ongoing disease, the main goal of Anti-Aging Medicine is to help one feel better by improving how the body functions. The emphasis is on treating the cause of the problem, not just the symptoms.Anti-Aging Medicine treats a wide variety of aging health problems including menopause, andropause (male menopause), depression, sexual dysfunction, fatigue, insomnia, and weight disorders.

Each patient’s evaluation is individualized and extensive leading to a personalized treatment plan. Through established medical principles and ongoing body chemistry assessments, the program consists of proper nutrition, physical exercise and fitness, biologically identical hormone therapies, and pharmaceutical-grade neutraceuticals (vitamins, amino acids, minerals, antioxidants, and herbs). Through this program, the goals are to look and feel younger, maintain ideal body weight, improve sleep patterns, restore intimacy and sexual function, eliminate anxiety and depression, and increase energy, muscle mass, and strength.

Dr. Barry Eppley

http://www.eppleypalsticsurgery.com

http://www.ologyspa.com

Clarian North Medical Center, Carmel, Indiana

Clarian West Medical Center, Avon, Indiana

Indianapolis

The Value of Microdermabrasion Treatments

One of the most common and popular skin treatments available today is the well-known in-office procedure known as microdermabrasion.This is really a very superficial exfoliating treatment, that when combined with light chemical peels, produces a good skin maintenance benefit. The emphasis is on the words....maintenance treatment. (more on that later) Microdermabrasion can be done by many different methods such as crystals, or what we use is a fine diamond handpiece. It really works like a fine gentle sander. The top layer of skin and its dead skin cells are rubbed off, revealing smoother skin undereneath. By removing some of the outer skin cells, the deeper skin layers can better receive chemical peels and other topical skin agents.
Microdermabrasion, contrary to common perception, is not really capable of creating dramatic skin texture changes. Laser skin resurfacing and deeper chemical peels are treatments that cause deeper damage and, hence, better skin rejuvenative effects. Microdermabrasion quite simply doesn't go deep enough to create fantastic skin changes. However, microdermabrasion does have good benefits which include the following:
1. Refreshed Skin - With any microdermabrasion treatment as the old layer of dead skin is removed, this action also promotes increased circulation. This accounts for the temporary redness after treatment. Such increased circulation brings needed nutrients to regenerate new skin.
2. Quick Treatment with No Recovery Time - Microdermabrasion is a perfect 'lunchtime' treatment. Since treatments are usually less than 30 to 45 minutes and there is only slight redness after, it can easily be worked into anyone's schedule. A healthy glow in the skin is immediately created that can not be confused by anyone as a 'recovery' issue.
3. No Risks - Because microdermabrasion treatments are fairly superficial, there is no real chance of any significant problems. Unless one goes at least 50 microns deep (microdermabrasion only goes 2 to 4 microns deep) the skininjury is not deep enough to cause healing issues or any chance of permanent skin changes.
4. Affordability - Although professional microdermabrasion is typically not considered cheap, when compared to many other cosmetic treatments, it definitely costs a whole lot less. When combined with daily topical agents, periodic microdermabrasion treatments (every 6 weeks or longer) are one of your better skin care values.
Ideal for getting rid of dry skin patches, reducing large pores, improving acne conditions, as well as minimizing sun spots, scars and other discolorations, microdermabrasion treatments offer numerous benefits and should be considered in any skin care plan.

Dr. Barry Eppley

http://www.eppleyplasticsurgery.com

http://www.ologyspa.com

Clarian North Medical Center, Carmel, Indiana

Clarian West Medical Center, Avon, Indiana

Indianapolis

Recovering Your Skin After The Summer

The nice warm weather of the summer and the beauty of seeing the sun repeatedly over clear skies has made for a fun and productive season...and put a tan and a glow to that face. But with that good summer look lies some damage from the sun underneath. The suncreen you used (hopefully) and a hat were helpful but it can't repair the ongoing damage to your skin cells from the UV rays that made it through or the damage that was there beforehand. To get skin healthier and looking better from sun damage requires the process of exfoliation. Whether this exfoliative process is superfical or deep will determine, how much recovery, cost, and the amount of improvement seen.

Medical facials are a good and pleasurable way to help nourish sun damaged skin. Light chemical peels and nourishing facial agents help infuse the skin with cell-boosting vitamins and minerals that will soften and hydrate dry facial skin. You will need a series of treatments in order to reap any long-term benefits but these need to be be repeated every few weeks as they are more about stimulation than exfoliation. Usually a facial is best combined with microdermabrasion or other skin resurfacing procedures (see below) for a more comprehensive treatment that gets a better result.
Microdermabrasion, a procedure which almost everyone has heard of, is a superficial exfoliating treatment that can help buff away dead skin cells and give your skin an immediate brighter gklow. It is usually combined with a light chemical peel to get a better result.Microdermabrasion can help brighten up a dull complexion and also boosts collagen production deep within the skin’s layers. You’ll see immediate results, and a noticeable difference in the texture and tone of your skin after a few days. Because it does not go very deep, it will not correct deeper wrinkles or heavily damaged skin. I like to think of microdermabrasion as a 'maintenance' treatment rather than a truly therapeutic one, meaning it is a good to other more aggressive treatments but do not expect miracles from it. Medical microdermabrasion treatments usually cost in the range of $125 - $175.

Resurfacing of your skin with the use of the laser is the most aggressive and successful approach to skin rejuvenation. By burning off the top layers, the outer layer of damaged skin is partially removed and the skin must heal by producing new skin cells. The result is a smoother, more youthful appearance and the elimination of sun damaged skin spots or patches of pigmented skin. The key to laser resurfacing, and the real progress made in this technology, is that you can control the depth of the exfoliation or burn. Measured in microns (typical facial skin is around 1000 microns thick), lasers can be adjusted to burn off as little as 6 to 100s of microns. Superficial laser resurfacing is around 6 to 20 microns, medium-depth laser resurfacing is 20 - 75 microns, and deep laser resurfacing is anything over 100 up to 200 or 300 microns. Superificial and medium-depth laser resurfacing can be done in the office under topical anesthesia and heals well in a week or less at a cost of $500 - $2000 for a full face treatment. Best results are obtained with a series of treatments over time. Deep laser resurfacing requires an anesthetic, usually a general, and takes weeks to heal and will run in the $3000 to $4000 range. Which method you would choose depends on the time you have for recovery, your budget, and how fast you want to get the best result.

Photofacials are a well known skin treatment method that is poorly understood. It is not laser therapy but a high-intensity light treatment. Some know it as IPL (intense pulsed light). We use a higher intensity treatment known as BBL or broad-band light. It's single best benefit is in helping reduce sunspots, freckles, and superficial pigment changes. It is very effective for facial, neck, chest, and hand age spots and pigmented sun damage. It is not an exfoliative treatment, jut think of it as most effective for helping even skin tone. It is an adjunctve treatment to skin resurfacing and chemical peels, not a substitute.

A variety of good after-the-summer facial treatments are available that can clear up summer sun damage and provide protection during the colder winter months. Meet with a plastic surgeon who works closely with a medical aesthetician to get the best treatment program for your skin.

Dr. Barry Eppley
http://www.eppleyplasticsurgery.com
http://www.ologyspa.com
Clarian North Medical Center, Carmel, Indiana
Clarian West Medical Center, Avon, Indiana
Indianapolis

Better Nutrition Means Better Skin

Eating a healthy diet, drinking adequate amounts of non-sugary fluids, and exercising regularly are well-known foundations to not only good health but great-looking skin also. Eating right for your skin, however, is a bit tricker. Here are some tips for skin nutrition.
#1: Cut down on your sugar intake.. Eating too much sugar may cause wrinkles and cause unnecessary damage to the cells responsible for collagen, the building block of skin cells. Sugar, in ways that are not completely understood, impede the repair capacity of skin.
#2: Eat leafy green vegetables which are rich in antioxidants and Vitamin A, an essential vitamin for a clear complexion and good skin tone.
#3: There are some fats which are healthy for skin. Avocados, salmon and cashews are good sources that can improve the texture and tone of your skin. Fish oil or Omega 3 supplements are good alternatives.
#4: Vitamin E is an essential vitamin that can restore damaged skin tissue and keep your skin looking refreshed. Almonds as a snack or Vitamin E supplements are ways to get it..
#5: Be berry-wise. . Blueberries, strawberries and other fresh berries are rich in antioxidants and phytochemicals. Eating antioxidant-rich foods can prevent free radical damage so skin stays strong, youthful-looking and resilient.
#6: Whole wheat bread contains selenium, a mineral that helps ward off skin damage.
#7: Eliminate as much as caffeine as possible. Too much caffeine can leave you dehydrated and deplete valuable vitamins and minerals.
#9: Limit alcoholic beverages. Alcohol dehydrates the body which leads to wrinkles and a dull complexion.
In addition to dietary changes, frequent minimally-invasive cosmetic treatments (exercise for your skin) can keep that healthy glow to your skin. My personal recommendation is a microdermabrasion treatment with a light chemical peel done every 4 to 6 weeks. Such skin rejuvenation procedures, combined with thoughtful food choices, are an ideal combination for optimal skin tone and condition.
Dr. Barry Eppley
http://www.eppleyplasticsurgery.com
http://www.ologyspa.com
Clarian North Medical Center, Carmel, Indiana
Clarian West Medical Center, Avon, Indiana
Indianapolis

Treatment of Rosacea in Indianapolis

Rosacea is an incredibly common skin condition, affecting an extimated 14 million Americans. It affects women about three times as often as men and appears most commonly as flushing and red blotches on the cheeks and nose as well as the chin and forehead. In more advanced cases, tiny pimple-like bumps and small discrete blood vessels appear as well. Eventually if the condition progresses, the skin will thicken and raise creating a coarse texture. Not every patient actually moves beyond the red discoloration or 'slap face' appearance and there is no predicting whether rosacea will become progressive in any patient. In fact, no one knows what causes rosacea or how to prevent it. And there is no single theory of causation that is universally agreed on. ( inflammatory proteins vs. microscopic mites in the hair follicles) While rosacea can appear in anyone, it is more common in fair-skinned middle-aged (30 to 50) individuals.
Prevention of flaring in rosacea is important. There are some established triggers to rosacea and include sun exposure, emotional stress, hot weather, excessive exercise, alcohol and spicy foods which top the list. To those afflicted, avoidance of these situations when possible requires simple behavior modification.
Actual treatment of rosacea includes a variety of topical and oral medications as well as light and laser therapies. At Ology, we see a fair number of rosacea patients. Many have been on topical creams and oral antibiotics as a first-line approach with their dermatologist. When these fail, our approach has been to use pulsed light for generalized redness and the 1064nm wavelength laser for specific telangectasias or spider veins. Our version of pulsed light is broad band light (BBL) using either 560 or 590nm filters. This requires a series of treatments using different energy levels and depth of light penentration. Usually it takes a series of trials varying the fluence and milliseconds to find a good combination for each specific patient. That is why it takes multiple treatments and good patience on both sides for a BBL treatment program that may work. In some cases we will combine BBL treatments with athome topical niacin cream. (NIA 24) It would seem contradictory that a topical agent that causes flushing would be helpful, but it seems to work in some cases.
While not every patient seen can get great results, our experience with light and laser therapies for the problematic and very symptomatic rosacea patient offers hope for a skin condition that frequently defies standard medical treatments.
Dr. Barry Eppley
http://www.eppleyplasticsurgery.com
http://www/ologymd.com
Clarian North Medical Center, Carmel, Indiana
Clarian West Medical Center, Avon, Indiana
Indianapolis

Tips for Management of EyeBrow Shape

Whether it is doing a browlift surgery, having brows put on by micropigmentation (tattooing or permanent makeup), or simply waxing a brow, understanding what makes an eyebrow look good is important. There are several basic considerations to know.
In general, the classic medium-arched brow works best for most people. This means the peak of the arch of the brow is directly along a vertical line above the pupil. If the peak of the arch is closer to the nose or too far to the side, this creates a very unnatural appearance that at its worst can appear cartoonish. But it is equally important to take into account your overall facial shape and proportions. If you have a larger face with strong features (bone prominences), then a thicker brow is more proportionate. Conversely, a thin face with small features needs a thinner brow. (lest you look like Groucho Marx) The wider the face, the more the tail of the eyebrow should extend out. In thin faces, the tail of the eyebrow should barely goes past the corner of the eye. The color of the eyebrow is equally important. As a guideline, the eyebrows should be one shade lighter than your own hair......never darker. If it is even the same shade, the eyebrows make look too heavy unless they are quite thin. Pay attention to your lipstick color as well. Your eyebrows should be a shade between your hair color and lipstick color so there is a natural transition between the facial areas.
Enhancing the eyebrows can be done with a pencil, powder, or a pomade. Powders and pomades are good for adding volume to existing eyebrows which have a good hair density, albeit thinner hairs. Pencils are good for filling in for missing hairs or brow lines and create a more dramatic effect.
Dr. Barry Eppley
http://www.eppleyplasticsurgery.com
http://www.ologyspa.com
Indianapolis

Sun Protection Of Your Lips

The public's increased awareness of skin cancer and the necessary precautions to prevent it has placed a major emphasis on sun protection through SPF and SFA levels in skin creams and ointments. But often forgotten in facial skin protection is that of the lips. In fact, the wearing of lip glosses may actually increase the amount of ultraviolet rays that get to the lips. Since many lip glosses are clear and shiny, they may serve as a light magnifier but, at the least, they certainly provide no ultraviolet ray protection.
Since skin cancer of the lip is not rare, SPF protection of the lips seems like a good idea. While many lip balms and ointments do contain some SPF protection, it is usually 20 or less....not enough to match the SPF 30 or greater that is recommended for skin. While some lip products do contain SPF 30, they are few in number and harder to find. Darkly pigmented lip glosses or those with darker shades probably do offer some sun protection due to their density and color but their actual contribution to the amount of SPF protection is not known.
I recommend to my patients that they wear lip protection with an SPF of 30 or greater on their lips when they are outside any significant amount of time. At the least consider applying a sun protectant underneath your lip color before application. We wil probably see in the near future a wide variety of lip glosses that have good SPF levels but until then.....
Dr. Barry Eppley
http://www.eppleyplasticsurgery.com
http://www.ologyspa.com
Clarian North Medical Center, Carmel, Indiana
Clarian West Medical Center, Avon, Indiana
Indianapolis

Ology Spa in Indianapolis and Hospital Spas

In the July 2008 issue of MASSAGE magazine, Ology Spas was one of the four featured hospital spas in a feature article entitled ' Hospitals Spas: A Prosperous Partnership'. While medical spas are now commonplace, most of these businesses operate around a limited number of services, mainly cosmetic treatments, of which Botox makes up most of their medical services. Hospital spas, however, take these and other wellness services to an entirely new level.
Most hospital spas, like Ology, offer extensive aesthetic treatments but our location within a large medical facility makes the wellness component of our service menu that much more important. Massage, acupuncture, ayurvedic therapies, and anti-aging and regenerative medicine are important components if one is to provide health and wellness services. In some ways, a hospital spa makes a traditional medical facility more aware and potentially more accepting of complementary medicine's treatment options.
The design and interior decor must also promote a tranquil environment that not only provides an excellent patient experience but a healing environment as well. Organic colors, bamboo, cork, and stone natural materials, soft music and aromatherapy are some of the elements that make a more optimal healing environment. Ology Spas was designed with these design elements in mind and is regularly commented on both both spa and cosmetic guest alike.
Since its first location opening in 2004, Ology Spas has worked hard to bring the complete package of what we call the 'Wellness Triangle'. Spa therapies, Plastic Surgery, and Anti-Aging Medicine represents the legs of that triangle. With our addition of anti-aging medicine here in 2008, Ology Spas now has a complete service menu and the only such hospital facility to do so ini the United States to date.
Dr. Barry Eppley
http://www.eppleyplasticsurgery.com
http://www.ologyspa.com
Clarian North Medical Center, Carmel, Indiana
Clarian West Medical Center, Avon, Indiana
Indianapolis

Procedures in Permanent Makeup in Indianapolis

How is permanent makeup performed?
One of the most important considerations in permanent makeup is the pre-treatment consideration of shape, density and color of the area to be treated. Whether it is an eyebrow, eyelids, or lips, the patient should come in for a consult where the shape and color of the area to be treated can be marked with colored pencils with a mirror. The patient can then go home and determine on their own if they like what has been applied. This temporary 'procedure' is an absolute prerequisite before any permanent tattooing will be done.
While many places that perform permanent makeup use a topical anesthetic, Dr. Eppley performs the gentle injection of local anesthetics into the areas to be treated to ensure comfort throughout the procedure. Several small needle sticks are preferable to the thousands of sticks thaty will subsequently be done with the tattoo needles. This is one very distinct advantage to having the procedure in a medical facility.
All tattoos are applied with a small electrical device. Some of these machines are a traditional gun, rotary pen, machine coil, soft tap. The needle can range from 1 to a group of 14. All are used for different purposes and different areas. All machines work basically like a sewing machine where the needle moves in and out and up and down into the epidermis and into the middle layer of the dermis. The technicians hand steadily guides the needle along the skin. It is generally operated with a foot pedal just like a sewing machine.
The tubing around the needle keeps the penetration to about a fraction of a millimeter. A grouping of 1-3 needles generally makes a fine straight delicate line, and a row of 4-14 needles is used for shading. Shading tends to be more painful because of the larger number of needles, and usually a larger area is filled.
The tip of the needle is dipped into a small amount of ink so they are covered. As the technician guides the needle over the skin excess pigment and body fluids collect on the surface. These extra fluids are wiped away. This helps the technician see where the pigment is successfully implanting.
Kimberly Dine
Dr. Barry Eppley
http://www.ologyspa.com
http://www.indianapolispermanentmakeup.com
http://www.eppleyplasticsurgery.com
Indianapolis

Micropigmentation at Ology Spa in Indianapolis- Muths and Facts II

Further answers to common misconceptions about permanent makeup:

Myth: Traditional tattoo guns penetrate deeper than micropigmentation machines resulting in more scar tissue.
Fact: The depth of penetration can be determined by the technician. Some machines have the ability to go deeper into the skin. Also if the pigment is implanted superficially then the tattoo may fade very quickly.

Myth: Permanent makeup can be applied to anyone.
Fact: Anyone under 18 must have parental consent. There are contraindications for tattooing including someone with a history of keloid scarring and any female that is pregnant.

Myth: Permanent makeup is not permanent and therefore the technician does not need a license.
Fact: Permanent makeup is definitely permanent. Some people will need touch ups and there may be extrinsic or intrinsic factors that cause pigment to fade faster, but it is still permanent. Sun exposure and rate of skin exfoliation can both cause tattoos to fade faster. The permanency mostly depends on the technician and how well it is placed.
Kimberly Dine
Dr. Barry Eppley
http://www.ologyspa.com
http://www.eppleyplasticsurgery.com
http://www.eppleyplasticsurgery.com

Micropigmentation at Ology Spa in Indianapolis - Myths and Facts

Like all procedures, there are many myths about permanent makeup (micropigmentation) that a potential patient should know. We will answer a few here.
Myth: Body tattooing and micropigmentation are not the same.
Fact: Micropigmentation is tattooing because pigment is injected into the skin using a needle just like a body tattoo. The permanent cosmetic (micropigmentation) industry agrees that no matter what it is called or what type of equipment is used, they are both the same.

Myth: It is important to go to someone who is certified in micropigmentation and not a tattoo artist.
Fact: Although it is good to look into reputable facilities, there is no true certification in either area of tattooing. Schools grant certificates after students take exams, but they have no meaning outside of the school. The industry itself does not certify or license tattoo artists or permanent makeup artists. Some states do license tattoo artists or permanent makeup artists in sterilization and sanitation. In general, an aesthetician trained in permanent makeup, working in a medical office under physician's supervision, is the most assured setting in which to get the procedure done in a professional manner.

Myth: A Dermagraphics pen is no the same as a tattoo gun.
Fact: All equipment works in the same basic way of implanting pigment into the epidermis with a needle or group of needles. Some are quieter and don't implant as deep, while others are cordless and digital. All machines good technique and experience to get the best results. The 'magic' is in the hands of the operator, not in the machine used. They are all tattooing devices.
Kimberly Dine
Dr. Barry Eppley
http://www.ologyspa.com
http://www.indianapolispermanentmakeup.com
http://www.eppleyplasticsurgery.com
Indianapolis

Mineral Makeup in Indianapolis

Mineral-based makeup has been the latest rage in facial cosmetics for several years now. What is it that makes it so popular...and so good for your skin? First and foremost, mineral makeup gives your skin a very finished look that actually looks like your own skin. It goes on and looks like no other form of makeup, creating nearly flawless skin. Because mineral makeup is also highly pigmented, it is only necessary to put it on in very fine sheer layers. Secondly, it does not clog pores and, because of its mineral base, it also has some ability to block the harmful rays of the sun.
Mineral makeup refers to the mineral powders that make up its base. As a general rule, real mineral makeups have very few ingredients of which the oxides or dioxides of titanium, zinc, iron should be its main ingredients. If you want to test the purity of your mineral makeup, put some in a glass of water and stir. A good mineral makeup will stay on top of the water and the underlying water will remain clear. Mineral makeups do not (or should not) have other oils, talcs, perfumes, dyes, or alcohol in them, all of which can cause sensitivity to the makeup and clog pores. Because of its mineral base, mineral makeups stay on the top of the skin rather than being absorbed, thus avoiding the introduction of toxic chemicals into your body and potential allergic reactions.
Because of its good coverage ability and lower risk of skin sensitivities, mineral makeups are ideal after care for skin treatments such as microdermabrasion, facials, and light chemical peels. I find them to be good also for use after plastic surgery procedures such as skin resurfacing and facelifts when the skin has had some time to heal, generally using them about one week after the procedures. Not only does mineral makeup provide good coverage over pink skin but it does have some anti-inflammatory properties so it is perfectly safe around fresh surgical incisions. The sun protection ability of mineral makeup is also a bonus around new surgery sites.
For these reasons, I endorse mineral makeup in my spas and plastic surgery practice. It is a great addition that is both healthy for skin and a valuable aid in the early after care of facial treatments and plastic surgery.
Dr. Barry Eppley
http://www.eppleyplasticsurgery.com
http://www.ologyspa.com
Indianapolis

Good Nutrition Can Help Fight Skin Wrinkling

Altering your diet through some better nutritional habits and supplementation may help keep your skin in the best shape possible. Everyone knows that more fruit, complex carbohydrates and certains fats are a sound approach to feeling better overall, but there are certain specific foods that have been linked to skin health as well. Here are ten foods that are believed to offer as good an advantage as any pill out of a bottle. (Source: MedicineNet.com).
1. Olive Oil – It is full of antioxidants but olive oil is a valuable source of healthy fats as well. Olive oil can also be used externally to keep skin smooth and soft. Top off a salad with olive oil and use it as your preferred oil of choice when cooking.
2. Blueberries – With a very high concentration of Vitamin C and antioxidants, blueberries have been called a super food. When buying, choose the berries with the darkest color, these are full of manganese and also have significant anti-inflammatory properties as well.
3. Salmon – An excellent source of lean protein and Omega-3 fatty acids, salmon is good for both your skin and your heart. Omega-3 fatty acids help to improve skin texture and may also be beneficial at reducing the problem of eczema and dry skin.
4. Green Tea – Known to be packed with phytochemicals and polyphenols, green tea helps eliminate toxins from the body and reduces the risk of infection. Green tea is also thought to slow down the development of wrinkles.
5. Garlic – Not often appreciated, garlic is a powerful antioxidant. It can be consumed daily for maximum benefits either raw or cooked, and is even found in several dietary supplements and skin care creams.
6. Broccoli – This cruciferous vegetable contains sulforaphane, a natural detoxifying agent that can also keep your skin in great shape. Fresh is best when it comes to this green vegetable, and broccoli sprouts in particular have even higher levels of phytochemicals than the stalks.
7. Prunes – Besides being full of fiber and promote a healthy digestive tract, prunes are very high in antioxidants. It is thought that they may keep skin healthy by reducing toxin buildup.
8. Cashews – In addition to containing healthy fats, cashews also have high levels of fiber, iron and magnesium. They’re a great snack for curbing cravings for salty foods, and may help keep the skin looking resilient and smooth.
9. Tomatoes – Cooked tomatos contain high levels of lycopene and antioxidants that can protect skin from aging and help maintain collagen levels.
10. Yams – Besides being low in calories and a healthy source of potassium and fiber, yams contain several vitamins A, C, and E that are essential for healthy skin.

Antioxidants and vitamins such as A and E should be an integral part of your anti-aging nutritional program which may also be useful in skin strengthening and wrinkle reduction/prevention.
Dr. Barry Eppley
http://www.eppleyplasticsurgery.com
http://www.ologyspa.com
Indianapolis

Anti-Aging and Regenerative Medicine Seminar At Clarian North Medical Center

Start Living Better
OLOGY Spa and the plastic surgery practice of Dr. Barry Eplpey of Indianapolis is proud to announce the arrival of Dr. James Cook, Anti-Aging and Regenerative Medicine to our facility.
Are you ready to change the way you live – for the better? From hormonal management to nutrition, exercise and sleep issues, Anti-Aging Therapy focuses on a long-term medical program to help you be at your best, and live a healthier, more vibrant life.
Join Dr. Cook on Thursday, May 22 to begin your journey and learn more about this fascinating new area of medicine that is about feeling better now and for the future.

Clarian North Medical Center
116th & Meridian Streets
Carmel, Indiana 46032

Thursday, May 22, 2008 6pm – 8:30pm
Call for seminar registration 317-814-4100

Anti-Aging and Regenerative Medicine Seminar at Clarian North Medical Center

Start Living Better – OLOGY is proud to announce the arrival of Dr. James Cook, Anti-Aging and Regenerative Medicine to our practice!
Are you ready to change the way you live – for the better? From hormonal management to nutrition, exercise and sleep issues, Anti-Aging Therapy focuses on a long-term medical program to help you be at your best, and live a healthier, more vibrant life.
Join Dr. Cook on Thursday, May 22 to begin your journey and learn more about this fascinating new area:
Thursday, May 22, 20086pm – 8:30pm
Clarian North Medical Center
116th & Meridian Street
Carmel, Indiana 46032
Call 317-814-4100 for reserve seating

Dr. Barry Eppley
http://www.eppleyplasticsurgery.com
http://www.ologyspa.com

The State of the MedSpa Industry

I read an article today entitled 'The MedSpa Bust' and was not surprised to be reading it. The medspa industry has grown like mushrooms over the past five years, being touted as a field laced with gold and unlimited business success. Numerous medspa companies selling franchises as well as many individuals have open their doors on nearly every corner in the hopes of catching some of these gold flakes. But the reality of the past few years have been more sobering and it should surprise no one as to why.
Many medspa treatments are actually medical procedures using injections, lasers, and other device-related therapies. Their effectiveness and safety is dependent on good patient selection, sound and experienced technique, and proper patient education. Many medspa owners have no medical background, have never seen a patient, and even if they are physicians, are not trained in cosmetic surgery or medicine. Many of them know as much about the cosmetic medicine as I do about raising cattle. How could they have expected to thrive? Many now have not. I have seen four here in the Indianapolis area that have closed in the past year, all run by non-cosmetic physicians or non-physicians.
It was my belief four years ago when I open my medspas, and the surrounding business landscape now makes that ring true, that the long-term survival of many medspas will depend on their direct association with an established plastic surgeon or dermatologist who is in the biz, so to speak. It is very difficult to separate medical procedures into a pure beauty business and run it like a retail store.....without the expertise on-site to do so. Eventually, poor results or complications will put you out of business. If you get a bad haircut for $90, you are unhappy but life will go on. If you spend $4,000 for a non-surgical facelift and get no real results, you are more than just unhappy.
In the long-term, many medspas will close or merge into an established and well-qualified physician's practice. It takes a blend of medical expertise with the knowledge of retail marketing to make a medspa business work. It will not work as a turnkey operation set up by someone else.
Dr Barry Eppley
http://www.eppleyplasticsurgery.com
http://www.ologyspa.com
Clarian North Medical Center, Carmel, Indiana
Clarian West Medical Center, Avon, Indiana
Indianapolis

Tooth Whitening at Ology Spa in Indianapolis

There are many reasons why teeth get stained. Foods, drinks, and time (age) are the biggest culprits but certain medications (such as antibiotics during teeth development) as well as dead teeth through trauma and root canals also contribute in certain patients. Many of these teeth discolorations are superficial and can be professionally whitened.
Teeth whitening has a long standing history of working through the chemicals hydrogen peroxide and carbamide peroxide. These sister peroxidases turn into oxygen free radicals which penetrate into the enamel, breaking down any discolorations which are visible on the outside of the tooth. the structure of the tooth is not harmed to create the whiter appearance, it is just that the inside of the tooth is made lighter which appears whiter on the outside to the naked eye. The safety of these peroxides has been well established over decades of research and they do not harm the natural tooth structure, fillings, crowns, veneers or resins.
The longevity of tooth whitening is not permanent. Your diet and lifestyle habits such as smoking, coffee/tea drinking etc will eventually return some discoloration. How fast it may return again depends on your lifestyle habits. We expect most tooth whit7ening results to last more than one year. But home touch-up kits are available to help maintain the whitenness periodically.
Most teeth whitening systems may cause some temporary tooth sensitivity. Certain tooth whitening products contain agents that help decrease tooth sensitivity by inducing a loacl anesthetic effect on the tooth. This is necessary with very powerful systems with high concentrations of hydrogen peroxide. Our main system uses a cool blue light and a low (7%) hydrogen peroxide solution so that dental sensitivity is practically non-existant.
While tooth whitneing is very safe and effective, iot is also important that you have teeth that are in a good state of repair and gums that are in good health. Tooth whitening does not replace the need for regular professional dental care. Tooth whitening is like a new pair of clothes, it looks good but is not synonymous with a good body in excellent health.
Dr Barry Eppley
http://www.eppleyplasticsurgery.com
http://www.ologyspa.com
Clarian North Medical Center, Carmel, Indiana
Clarian West Medical Center, Avon, Indiana
Indianapolis

Tooth Whitening comes to Ology Spa

Cosmetic teeth whitening is one of the most sought after beauty treatments today and OLOGY is happy to bring the latest in cosmetic tooth whitening technology to our aesthetic and spa guests.

Up to the present time, tooth whitening has only been available at your dentists office or through over-the-counter dental strips. Dental office treatment methods have been associated with either rapid increases in tooth whitening but with substantial tooth and gum sensitivity or take-home custom trays which were both messy and cumbersome to wear. Over –the-counter whitening strips, while effective, takes weeks to see any visible results and must be used for a long time to see substantial improvement in tooth color.

OLOGY brings a revolutionary approach to tooth whitening with a system that in one hour can increase the color of your teeth from 8 to 15 shades….and is not associated with teeth or gum sensitivity.! Using a special blend of hydrogen peroxide and silicone dioxide with cool blue light acceleration, the system oxidizes the pigmentation of your 16 front upper and lower teeth, restoring them to a beautiful white. All without heat, mouth sensitivity, or UV light exposure.

This whitening system is particularly effective for teeth stained by smoking or substances like coffee or tea. Such teeth discoloration shows the greatest improvement with our system. Teeth with tetracycline or other antibiotic stains, teeth speckled with fluoride, or teeth with hereditary discoloration will also show good improvement. Teeth with existing cavities or cracks should not undergo whitening. Also, teeth with existing crowns (caps) or veneers will not whiten as this tooth whitening process is only effective on natural, live teeth.
Dr Barry Eppley
http://www.eppleyplasticsurgery.com/
http://www.ologyspa.com/
Clarian North Medical Center, Carmel, Indiana
Clarian West Medical Center, Avon, Indiana
Indianapolis

Anti-Aging and Regenerative Medicine at Ology

Beginning in May 2008, Ology will be offering Anti-Aging and Regenerative Medicine consults and treatments with Dr James Cook. Dr Cook is a board-certified neurologist with nearly 20 years of practice experience. He has practiced at Hendricks Regional Hospital in Danville and is one of the area's most recognized neurologic physicians. He recently completed an Anti-Aging Fellowship and completed taking his board-certification examination. He is the only physician in Indiana who is fully fellowship-trained in Anti-Aging Medicine.
Dr Cook brings an expertise and array of services that completes the Ology concept of providing comprehensive well-being care through an integrated spa, plastic surgery, and anti-aging approach. Anti-Aging and Regenerative Medicine is about the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of age-related conditions such as male and female menopause, need for weight loss, sleep disorders, and chronic fatigue through hormonal balancing and nutritional supplementation. Anti-Aging Medicine is a perfect complement to the full array of spa and plastic surgery services that Ology currently offers.
Dr Barry Eppley
http://www.eppleyplasticsurgery.com
http://www.ologyspa.com
Clarian North Medical Center, Carmel, Indiana
Clarian West Medical Center, Avon, Indiana
Indianapolis

Are Sunless Tanning Pills Safe and Effective?

Despite the risks for skin cancer and premature aging of the skin, many still seek that healthy glow that comes from a tanned appearance. The past decade has seen a big push towards tanning beds and lotions in an effort to get a tan with presumably less damaging effects on one's skin. More recently, tanning pills have been touted as another way to achieve a tan. But are they safe and effective?
Tanning pills work through pigment-enhancing ingredients such as tyrosine. Extra tyrosine (you usually get plenty of it through normal food consumption) can add color to your skin by boosting the production of melanin in your skin. This may further be enhanced by exposure to sunlight or tanning bed rays. Another pigment-enhancing agent is caretonoid which enhances the color of fat which creates a darkening effect on the overlying skin. Both types of these pigment enhancers, in some people, can create an unusual skin coloration that is more orange than a natural tan.
These sunless tanning pills are, in fact, sold as dietary supplements and, as such, are not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration. (FDA) Their safety has never been truly established and not enough scientific studies have been done to determine how effective they may be. Side effects reported with these supplements have included gastrointestinal symptoms of nausea, diarrhea, and potentially even liver damage.
Until more investigations are done with these pigment enhancers, I do not recommend them to my patients. There are many safer methods such as tanning lotions, spray tanning, and even tanning towels. All of these are methods of adding color to your skin without exposure to harmful ultraviolet rays.
Dr Barry Eppley
http://www.eppleyplasticsurgery.com
http://www.ologyspa.com
Clarian North Medical Center, Carmel, Indiana
Clarian West Medical Center, Avon, Indiana
Indianapolis

Dr Eppley Introduces ActPatch as an adjunct to Massage Therapy

ActiPatch is becoming increasingly used in my plastic surgery practice to aid postoperative recovery from surgery. For all types of breast surgery and cosmetic facial surgery, I have found it beneficial to reduce the amount of bruising, swelling, and pain from these procedures. ActiPatch is a drug-free anti-inflammatory device that works on the principle of emitting pulsed electromagnetic fields from the circuitry in his patch and loop designs. It is applied externally over the surgery site and is used primarily in the first 48 hours after surgery.
It has many other musculoskeletal applications for the treatment of chronic muscle pain and strains from the lower back to the foot and ankle areas. It comes in a variety of geometric shapes and designs for differing applications. Its works for these musculoskeletal issues the same as in postoperative surgery recovery...to control pain and inflammation. Using it personally for back and shoulder issues, I have found it has an effect within a few hours that, in some situations, have rivaled the potent non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.
The beneficial effects of ActiPatch, and its non-drug mechanism of action, are a perfect complement to many of the massage therapy patients. As a complement to massage and in the treatment of muscle soreness and stiffness, ActiPatch offers an inexpensive and easy-to-apply method to prolong what has been attained in a massage treatment. At Ology Spa, we now offer this innovative pain treatment method to our massage patients as well as an off-the shelf retail item.
Dr Barry Eppley
http://www.eppleyplasticsurgery.com
http://www.ologyspa.com
Clarian North Medical Center, Carmel, Indiana
Clarian West Medical Center, Avon, Indiana
Indianapolis

Spa Dentistry

It is no surprise that the spa concept has made its way into the dental office. Over the past five years, the concept of the 'dental spa' has emerged On the surface, this is a perfect fit. A visit to the dentist frequently evokes stress and fear. Many people's fear is so great that often-needed routinue dental care is neglected. The dental spa concept offers a paradigm shift in the way oral hygiene is perceived by integrating traditional spa services into its delivery approach.
The most important and visible application of spa concepts, and the easiest to apply, is in the design and decor of the dental office. Creating a soothing and organic environment by integrating proper materials and colors, with the occasional water feature and tranquil music, is a good start. The actual spa service part, however, is much more difficult to mesh into a traditional dental practice. This can include massage, manicures and pedicures, aromatherapy, and healing options such as dietary supplements and herbal therapies. Providing these services adds to daily costs of delivery and many patients will simply not accept the added costs of the services. Selling the value of these integrated dental spa services will work for some higher-end practices but not for many mainline dental operations. Design and decor are relatively fixed front-end costs. Spa services are hourly expenses that ultimately are 'affordable' if they drive in new business, produce sustainable revenues from new spa treatments, or allow higher fees to be charged for dental services.
While the concept of a dental spa is not for everyone, it is waking up the dental profession to rethink its traditional models of delivery....and this is good for patients. Anything business model that encourages more regular dental attendance and care is a good thing.
Dr Barry Eppley
http://www.eppleyplasticsurgery.com/
http://www.ologyspa.com/
Clarian North Medical Center, Carmel, Indiana
Clarian West Medical Center, Avon, Indiana
Indianapolis

An Improved Understanding of Sunscreens

I have previously talked about suncreens in other blogs and the importance of understanding the damage from both UVA and UVB rays and the SPF and SPF-A sunscreen protection classification systems. Everyone is familiar with the SPF system in which, for example, a sunscreen with SPF 15 would allow a person to stay in the sun 15 times longer than the time period in which they would ordinarily burn. However, the FDA questions this concept since SPF is related to the amount of sun exposure, not actual time, as well as numerous other factors such as geographic location, time of day, skin type, and the amount of sunscreen applied. And this does not take into account, as I have previously mentioned, about the more damaging UVA rays. (SPF-A)
Therefore, new rules have been proposed by the FDA which will also require sunscreen products to indicate on their label a four-star rating system to indicate level of protection from UVA rays. One star is the least and four stars is the most. If a product does not offer UVA protection, the label must say "No UVA protection" next to the SPF rating. Therefore, each sunscreen label will feature two separate ratings -- stars for UVA and an SPF number. This labeling system is now in line with current medical understanding that UVA light is just as harmful to your skin as UVB light.
These new labeling rules will make it easier for the public to understand the features of a sunscreen. In addition to providing specific information about UVA and UVB protection, manufacturers must drop the term "broad spectrum" as it becomes meaningless in the face of these more specific protection indicators. Als0, sunscreens have to be more specific about their resistance to moisture exposure. Sunscreens labeled "water resistant" or "sweat resistant" are those that need to be reapplied after 40 minutes of swimming or sweating. Those labeled "very water resistant" or "very sweat resistant" are good for up to 80 minutes of moisture exposure. Once these new labeling rules go in force, however, these moisture-resistant terms must be removed.
When these new sunscreen labeling regulations will be required is unknown but it is likely they will be law by sometime in 2009. You will see soon, however, sunscreens with the dual star rating-SPF number probably this summer. For best sun protection, use a sunsceen with a three star rating (UVA) and an SPF of 30. (UVB)
Dr Barry Eppley
http://www.eppleyplasticsurgery.com/
http://www.ologyspa.com/
Clarian North Medical Center, Carmel, Indiana
Clarian West Medical Center, Avon, Indiana
Indianapolis

Is Indoor Suntanning Good For You?

A recent full-page ad in a New York newspaper by the tanning industry has claimed that the adverse effects of indoor sun tanning as it relates to increasing your risks of melanoma skin cancer are overstated. Furthermore, they claim that indoor tanning is actually beneficial as it produces vitamin D levels due to ultraviolet light exposure.
Having seen many patients in my plastic surgery practice that are regular users of tanning beds, I can assure you that it certainly is not beneficial as it relates to aging of the skin. But this issue aside, some of these other claims require further inspection. Some UV light exposure is certainly not unhealthy, but it is the amount of exposure that is important. You can get all the UV light your skin needs for adequate vitamin D levels in a few minutes of tanning bed exposure. I suspect that most tanning bed users use it far beyond that. Furthermore, the most common skin cancer is not melanoma, but basal cell and squamous cell. These more common types of skin cancer, while far less aggressive than melanoma, far outnumber melanoma and ultimately still require some form of medical treatment, often surgical excision. No mention is made of tannng bed effects on these more frequent skin cancers. All skin cancers are the result of skin type susceptibility and ultraviolet light exposure. It is difficult to imagine that 'excessive' tanning bed exposure does not have the same effects as outdoor sun exposure. Ultraviolet light, regardless of the source, is still....ultraviolet light.
Like all things in life, moderation is the key. Reasonable tanning bed expoure at time intervals of 5 - 10 minutes a few times a week probably has no significant deleterious effects on your risk of skin cancer or excessive skin aging.
Dr Barry Eppley
http://www.eppleyplasticsurgery.com/
http://www.ologyspa.com/
Clarian North Medical Center, Carmel, Indiana
Clarian West Medical Center, Avon, Indiana
Indianapolis

Botox and Injectable Fillers

A week doesn't go by without a patient asking me to....Botox their lips....or fill up their forehead lines. Apparently, a perception remains that all that comes out of a 30 gauge needle is the same. Despite tremendous advertising and information availale on the net, not everyone yet knows as much as we think. This is understandable as about half of the new patients that I see...have never been in any type of a cosmetic facility before short of a hair salon or dayspa.
The concept of dynamic vs static wrinkling is a good basis to explain to new patients the difference. Botox is to help with dynamic wrinkling (lines and folds that appears from facial expression), injectable fillers are to help with static lines and folds (but not small wrinkles). Or to put it in practical perspective, the majority of Botox is done around the eyes and forehead (north face) and the majority of injectable fillers is done around the lips and mouth area. (south face)

Dr Barry Eppley
http://www.eppleyplasticsurgery.com/
http://www.ologyspa.com/
Clarian North Medical Center, Carmel, Indiana
Clarian West Medical Center, Avon, Indiana
Indianapolis

Dr Barry Eppley Discusses Medical Skin Care -Understanding the Basics

As a plastic surgeon, I see many patients for facial surgery who often ask about their skin care. Or more specifically, what can they do to improve their skin either before or after surgery. Skin care is a very bewildering world for all patients with ten of thousands of products available in stores and on-line as well as cosmeceutical ads which have no boundaries to claims given that they are retail beauty products and not FDA-sanctioned pharmaceuticals. Where does the patient start and how do they work their way through the skin care maze.
First and foremost, like all things in medicine, a diagnosis has to be made. You can't very well select the right treatment if you don't have a working diagnosis as to the skin problems. THis can be done in two ways; being evaluated by a very experienced aesthetician who has a lot of medical experience (i.e., working in a doctor's office preferably a plastic surgeon or dermatologist) and/or getting a Visia skin complexion analysis. Like a CAT scan for your skin, this computerized digital skin analysis system evaluates everything from wrinkles, pore size, to the amount of sun damage...and documents it photographically. This provides not onlya set of diagnoses for the skin but also becomes a reference from which to judge the results of any future treatments.
From a product and treatment standpoint, there are only 5 things you can do to your skin...that's it! All skin care products and even more invasive skin treatments attempt to address one or all of them..but there is nothing more you can do topically. These five functions include: cleanse, hydrate, protect, exfoliate, and stimulate. The collective effects of all of these are smoother, tighter skin. If all five functions are achieved in a skin care program, then the best results can be obtained. If only one or two of these product functions are done, then the skin results will be less. Simplistically, a cleanser is needed morning and night, a daytime moisturizer/sunscreen protectant, and noctural regimens of exfoliation (e.g., AHA, lactic acids, Retin-A) alternating with stimulants (e.g., Vitamin C and peptides) comprise a basic program. The hardest regimen is to figure out the best nocturnal regimen of exfoliation and stimulation. Working with an aesthetician here can be really helpful. Many product lines today already have it laid out for you in kits or steps. As you can see, thre is no good reason for more than 5 to 7 skin care products, if they are properly selected and monitored. And the good news is....it is no more expensive to get a good medical line than buying that big jar of hope sold over the counter at the department or drug store by someone who has no idea, really, about comprehensive skin care.
The key today in medical skin care is....simplify, get focused products, and monitor the results and how you react to them. If you then mix in some regular microdermabrasions and light chemical peels....with a little Botox or injectable fillers if needed...you are on your way to better-looking skin with a more likely good return on your investment.
Dr Barry Eppley
http://www.eppleyplasticsurgery.com/
http://www.ologyspa.com/
Clarian North Medical Center, Carmel, Indiana
Clarian West Medical Center, Avon, Indiana
Indianapolis

Ology Spa, Dr Barry Eppley, Andrea Bradley-Stutz and Flickr

Photographs of Clarian North Medical Center in Carmel Indiana, Clarian West Medical Center in Avon Indiana, and the Ology Spa facilities at both hospitals have been posted for viewing on the photo website, Flickr. (http://www.flickr.com/drbarryeppley) Photographs of Dr Barry Eppley, Andrea Bradley-Stutz, practice and skin care product logos have also been posted.

Massage Therapy and Plastic Surgery

With an increasing number of people undergoing cosmetic surgery (over 11 million people underwent some form of plastic surgery in 2007 according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons), plastic surgeons are looking for additional methods to enhance the patient’s experience and facilitate their recovery. Massage therapy is one therapeutic approach that can be a valuable aid in a patient’s postoperative recovery. Massage therapy can help reduce swelling and tightness, improve circulation, and hasten elimination of bruising from the surgical site.

I have embraced the use of massage therapy since my hospital-based spa, Ology in Indianapolis, opened its first location in 2004. Having regular access to massage therapy has allowed me to integrate it as part of many patient’s postoperative care regimens. Massage can improve a more rapid return of lymphatic outflow from the surgery site, which reduces swelling and the clearance of bruising faster. This is most valuable in body surgery such as liposuction and tummy tucks. However, it can also be useful afte facial surgery, even if the surgery site is not directly massaged. I usually have my patients begin massage sessions no sooner than 3 weeks after surgery and have a patient undergo them once a week for 4 to 6 weeks. While some patients may initially fear that massages may be too ‘rough’, they quickly find out that a gentle touch technique is used and they start to see its benefits immediately after the first session.

The integration of a touch form of therapy, such as massage, after the trauma of surgery has a great psychological benefit as well. It provides a compassionate and tender form of therapy while the patient is in the healing state. It reflects well on the practice and the plastic surgeon. Some patients after getting postoperative massage therapy become regular massage patients thereafter.
Dr Barry Eppley
http://www.eppleyplasticsurgery.com/
http://www.ologyspa.com/
Clarian North Medical Center, Clarian North, Carmel, Indian
Clarian West Medical Center, Avon, Indiana
Indianapolis

Dr Barry Eppley achieves Platinum status as an Expert Ezine Author

Dr Barry Eppley, board-certified plastic surgeon of Indianapolis, has achieved platinum status as an Ezine Author Expert. Ezine Articles (http://www.ezinearticles.com/) is an internet website company that facilitates the connection of authors and electronic publications for web publishing. Each article submission is individually screened for grammar and content and, if acceptable, approved, posted, and submitted for publication. Ezine Articles covers hundreds of subject categories. Dr. Eppley published frequently on Health and Beauty as well as Skin Care topics.

Dr Barry Eppley Discusses The Benefits Of A Combined Plastic Surgery-Spa Facility In A Hospital

Beginning in December 2004 at Clarian West Medical Center in Avon Indiana and beginning in December 2005 at Clarian North Medical Center in Carmel Indiana, OLOGY opened its doors as one of the first hospital-based spa facilities in the country. The objective of OLOGY was to provide comprehensive medical, aesthetic and spa services to hospital patients and employees in addition to providing spa and medical services to community residents.
After several years of operation, the decision to locate OLOGY in a hospital was a sound one. It was part of our concept to bring aesthetic and spa services to a traditional medical setting in a hospital, creating a custom-designed environment with the design of a tranquil, healing sanctuary with curved lines and all-natural materials. OLOGY’s philosophy remains a combination of Eastern Ayurvedic spa treatments with Western medicine. Providing a holistic approach to spa services, guests receive century-old therapies, such as Shirodara and vichy shower hydrotherapy, massage therapy and facials, and the most modern laser therapies, injections and plastic surgery procedures. Additionally, OLOGY offers numerous scientifically-proven skin care products. Treatments and services offered at OLOGY have been shown to have health benefits, including lower blood pressure, reduced stress, decreased healing times, less pain and decreased medication dependency. Other benefits include improving the skin’s health and anti-aging enhancements. OLOGY adheres to hospital standards of care and sterilization of tools and instruments at every level.

“With OLOGY we integrated relaxation, healing and aesthetic therapies into a traditional medical setting, without the typical medical office décor,” says Dr. Barry Eppley, Co-Founder and Plastic Surgeon. “We wanted to create an environment with services that are beneficial to the healthy guest as well as the hospital patient,” Dr. Eppley continues. Dr. Eppley's private plastic surgery practice is based inside OLOGY where there has been good synergy and cross-fertilization between spa patients and plastic surgery patients. In addition, some hospital patients, particularly Ob-Gyn patients, receive treatments while they are in the hospital. Patients benefit from massage and relaxation therapy provided at the bedside. Treatments are customized to the medical needs of patients, such as massage for pain relief, insomnia or prenatal/postpartum issues.

Andrea Bradley Stutz Talks About the Komen Tissue Bank at OLOGY

FREE treatments for a GREAT cause!

OLOGY Spa at Clarian North recently hosted another wonderfully successful tissue donation event for the Indiana University Tissue Bank at the Simon IU Cancer Center. On February 16, 2008, over thirty women literally 'gave of themselves' to help build the bank of healthy breast tissue used to further breast cancer research and help find a cure.

The Susan G. Komen for the Cure Tissue Bank was created in response to a need by scientists carrying out breast cancer research: understanding what is abnormal in breast cancer is slowed down by our lack of knowledge about what is normal. By collecting tissue from women with and without breast cancer, or with a variety of benign breast conditions, scientists will be able to determine differences which ultimately could lead to a better understanding of the breast cancer process.

OLOGY was proud to host the very first tissue bank donation event ever to take place in the world last year. We were humbled by the overwhelming response from women willing to undergo the simple needle biopsy necessary to harvest their healthy breast tissue. Donors were treated to complimentary spa treatments after every biopsy, creating a fabulous 'girl's day out' atmosphere -all for a wonderful cause!

OLOGY will host the next donation event on May 10, 2008 from 8am until 3pm at our Clarian West location, and again on September 20 at our Clarian North location. This is an utterly personal and unique way to contribute to the fight against breast cancer and we welcome your participation!

To join us in May and get a FREE treatment for a GREAT cause, please email us today at info@ologymd.com.

Andrea Bradley-Stutz, Dir
OLOGY Spa / Aesthetics / Medicine
http://www.ologyspa.com

Correctional Permanent Makeup Indianapolis

Permanent makeup performed with pigments containing iron oxides may eventually turn eyebrows pink or orange or lips blue. Pigment migration is also possible, which leads to color spreading to unwanted areas. Such mishaps are not uncommon due to the use of iron oxide pigments and body tattoo ink used for micropigmentation. At Ology we use pigments free of these types of pigments to enhance the lasting effects of permanent makeup. As research continues in cosmetic tattooing more and more correctional options are becoming available to technicians.

There are several questions the technician will need to know before deciding how perform a correctional procedure. First, how long ago was the procedure performed? This will determine if the patient is fully healed. Next, what color was originally applied? Also, it is helpful if the patient knows the type of pigment that was used in the original procedure. And last, what color does the patient want?

Correctional permanent makeup can take several treatments depending on the amount of change needed. With each treatment the unwanted color is lightened and lifted. Then the correct color can be implanted over the desired area. Although the process can be lengthy, the end result is worth the wait.

Kimberly Dine, LE
Andrea Bradley-Stutz, Dir
http://www.ologyspa.com

Permanent Makeup Indianapolis Part 3: Post Procedure Guidelines

There will be an epithelial crust that forms in the days following the procedure. It will be more noticeable on eyebrows and lips. This crust is dried pigment mixed with the formation of a scab. It is important that the scab is not picked, and that it falls off naturally in a few days. Picking the crust will result in a loss of pigment. Swelling is more noticeable in eyeliner procedures, but ice will reduce the swelling. Eyes will be slightly swollen until midday of the day following the procedure.

For the first few days following the procedure, the area will feel similar to that of a sunburn. Ointment can help soothe the area while healing. An antibiotic ointment should be applied only twice daily, and Vaseline should be used for additional lubrication.

The following is a list of post treatment instructions for Permanent Makeup.
- If swelling occurs, apply ice.
-Do not expose treated areas to the sun for five days.
-Apply antibiotic ointment twice daily for 5 days.
-Do not expose treated area to the full pressure of water while showering.

-Do not soak treated areas in a swimming pool with chlorine.
-Absolutely no scrubbing is allowed.
-Makeup can be worn over the area.
-Do not use soaps, chemicals, or cleansing creams for five days.

Failure to follow post procedure instructions may cause loss of pigment, discoloration, or infection.

For more information about Permanent Makeup post treatment guidelines please visit http://www.ologyspa.com/.

Permanent Makeup in Indianapolis Part 2: The Procedure

When you arrive for your procedure, you will first read and sign a consent form that covers all aspects of your permanent makeup. This is a good time to ask any final questions before you permanent makeup treatment begins. That way you can relax during your permanent makeup procedure.

The first part of the permanent makeup procedure involves numbing the area to be treated. This is done with either topical cream or local injections. Topical creams are left on the skin for about thirty minutes before the permanent makeup procedure starts or local injections are performed around the area and begin working in minutes. This is one advantage of permanent makeup at Ology Spa. Board Certified Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Eppley, performs all local injection for permanent makeup procedures. Once the area is numb, the design of your permanent makeup can begin.

Next, you will draw on your makeup as you do everyday. This is particularly true for eyebrow permanent makeup. Then the technician can perfect the shape by measuring the placement of your eyebrows based on the shape of your face. The technician will most likely be more conservative at each end of the eyebrow because length can always be added at a follow up treatment.

Now the permanent makeup procedure can begin. If the makeup is already drawn on the skin, the technician can proceed directly on top following the outline. The skin is held tight in position while the procedure is performed. Several passes are made in order to implant as much pigment as possible. The area may be rinsed or wiped between passes to see if the pigment is implanting correctly. With each pass, the pigment becomes more opaque. If discomfort is felt during the permanent makeup procedure a topical anesthetic cream can be applied to the open skin for additional numbing.

When your procedure is finished, the permanent makeup will look darker than it will heal and will appear shiny. An antibiotic ointment is applied before you leave. The technician will give you both Vaseline and an antibiotic ointment along wit your post treatment instructions to take home. You will also need to set up a follow up appointment for six weeks. For people receiving permanent eyeliner, it is recommended you have someone drive you home because your vision may be slightly blurred or have sensitivity to light.

For more information about permanent makeup procedures visit the link blow.

http://www.ologyspa.com/