Web’s Roll!

Taking a look back at the most popular webinars in Aesthetic Medicine that you don’t want to miss!

As we celebrate the fourth anniversary of Aesthetic Medicine India magazine, we are excited to walk you through the four top most-viewed webinars on the Aesthetic Medicine India YouTube channel. In these webinars, eminent dermatologists share their ideas and present case studies for our viewers. Here is a snapshot of the webinars. Additionally, you can watch these on the Aesthetic Medicine India YouTube channel.

Platelet-Rich Plasma for Face Rejuvenation and Hair Growth

Dermatologist Dr Shefali Trasi-Nerurkar guided the viewers through the application of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) on the face and hair. She discussed its mechanism of action, prerequisites, its use for face rejuvenation and hair growth, and ultimately her experience of using PRP on her patients.

Dr Trasi-Nerurkar explained that for any plasma to be labelled as PRP, the growth factor-rich plasma should have more than four times the baseline platelets. However, she also noted that there are no proper studies indicating the adequate amount of concentrate required for optimal stimulation.

The dermatologist explained how thoughtful consideration is important for selecting a PRP system that is appropriate to the intended application. And that, age and gender do not have any effect on the platelet count.

Discussing the applications of PRP, she mentioned that it is beneficial for fine wrinkles around the eyes and forehead, nasolabial grooves, wrinkles on lips, and acne scars. It can also be used for neck rejuvenation, dark circles under the eyes, loose saggy skin, facial pigmentation, and striae distensae (or stretch marks). PRP can also be used for hair disorders such as androgenetic alopecia and alopecia areata.

For skin rejuvenation, it can be used as direct intradermal injection, mesotherapy (especially when a patient is sensitive to pain), and topical application of PRP solution under occlusion. It is also commonly used as an adjunct to fillers to lasers – both fractional ablative carbon dioxide laser or erbium YAG laser, and be used along with microneedle radiofrequency.

Speaking about her experience, Dr Trasi-Nerurkar said her patients have well-appreciated the results from PRP. In cases where patients did not get the results they expected, PRP can be combined with other treatments such as hyaluronic acid fillers or skin tightening treatments for better results. The doctor’s favourite is periorbital rejuvenation because it can be easily combined with other treatments like lasers and microneedling for fast and better results. From her personal experience, she said she often combines PRP with other treatments.

The dermatologist further explained the various methods in which PRP can be used for hair rejuvenation. One of the methods includes injection in the interfollicular region at every centimetre – this, she said, is preferred over derma rollers by her patients because the derma rollers tend to rub against the scalp continuously. Another method is mesotherapy, and PRP can also be used in adjunct to hair transplantation.

Dr Trasi-Nerurkar considers PRP one of the promising treatments in dermatology and cosmetic medicine. However, the effectiveness of results differs given the lack of adequate protocols. She advised standardised protocols in every clinic depending on the platelet yield, cost-effectiveness, and easyto-adapt procedures. She also stressed the importance of utmost care and sterility while performing PRP.

Thread Lift for Facial Rejuvenation

Dr Jasleen Kaur, Dermatologist and Cosmetologist, Dr Jasleen’s Skin and Laser Clinic, weighed in on thread lift for facial rejuvenation during her webinar. Dr Kaur focused on PDO threads, COG threads, the procedure of a thread-lift, and its benefits and complications.

Elaborating on threads, she classified them according to the mode of absorption – non-absorbable and absorbable threads. The non-absorbable threads include Aptos, contour, and Woffles, while the absorbable threads are PDO, PLA, and PCA threads. The PDO thread therapy can prove to be an excellent and effective cosmetic technique to lift and tighten sagging skin tissue. It also redefines facial contours and is associated with low incidences of complications. Its lifting effect typically lasts for two to three years, and is at its peak six months later when collagen has formed around the threads. The thread also forms an integral support structure for the facial tissue because of collagen synthesis.

Dr Kaur further listed down PDO thread therapy’s mechanism of action, which starts with collagen created by a foreign material. This, in turn, leads to an anchoring effect around foreign material tissue adhesion that provides a lifting effect. Following this, there is an increased blood flow and metabolism, breaking down of cellulite and lipolytic effect. It results in muscle relaxation and a decrease in muscle volume. The face appears thinner and contoured after the PDO thread treatment, Dr Kaur explained.

Breaking down the mechanotransduction effect of the treatment, Dr Kaur said mechanical trauma such as necrosis, haemorrhage, and disintegration of fatty tissues happen on day one. Between three to seven days, there is polymorphonuclear neutrophils infiltration, macrophage-like and fusiform/fibroblastlike cells. In one week, the proliferation of myofibroblasts and the formation of new blood capillaries happen. After a week, the formation of a fibrous capsule with abundant and dense collagenous fibres occurs. Within four to six months, PDO threads are fully absorbed by hydrolysis; and it stimulates collagen synthesis that holds the skin structure created by the threads for 12-15 months.

Dr Kaur also touched upon the topic of patient selection. She added that the right candidates are those with minimal signs of ageing such as sagging at jawline and mid-face; the ones who require natural-looking results, women aged between 35 and 45; and those who accept and understand the possible risks and complications. Those falling in the poor candidate for a threadlift have excessive sagging skin, are obese with heavy rugged skin, immunologically compromised, have multiple skin allergies/ infections, and have systemic diseases like TB and diabetes.

Complications in thread lift include granuloma formation, bruises, oedema, pain, sense of muscle contraction or pulling of the skin, asymmetry, aggravation of problem, visible threads, thread loss or breakage of threads, dimpling result, and no desired change.

During the webinar, viewers had the opportunity to ask questions and to clarify their doubts about the therapy by Dr Kaur during a dedicated question-and-answer session. This provided an interactive and informative experience for those interested in the treatment.

The Let’s Talk Series -Episode 1: Personalisation with Restylane Defyne

Dermatologists Dr Narmada Matang and Dr Divita  Bhuraria were among the speakers at the inaugural session of the ‘Let’s Talk’ series organised by Aesthetic Medicine India and powered by Galderma. The focus of the discussion was on gel ergonomics and the Restylane portfolio, with a specific emphasis on the best techniques for achieving successful results with established safety profiles.

Gel ergonomics refers to the unique properties of Restylane’s dermal fillers, which are designed to mimic the natural structure and behaviour of the skin. During the discussion, Dr Matang and Dr Bhuraria discussed the different Restylane products, including the ones that are best suited for different areas of the face. They also shared their preferred injection techniques and tips for achieving optimal results, based on their extensive experience with these products.

One of the key takeaways from the session was the importance of tailoring treatments to each patient’s unique needs and preferences. For example, some patients may require more volumising fillers to address deep wrinkles or sagging skin, while others may prefer a more subtle enhancement with lighter fillers.

The doctors also highlighted the importance of using only approved and tested products to ensure patient safety and minimise the risk of adverse reactions. Restylane’s extensive clinical testing and established safety profiles make it a popular choice among dermatologists and patients alike.

To further showcase the effectiveness of these products, Dr Matang and Dr Bhuraria shared case studies of patients who had undergone Restylane treatments with successful results. These examples showcased the versatility and range of Restylane products, which can be used for everything from smoothing fine lines and wrinkles to enhancing cheekbones and jawlines.

Overall, the first session of the ‘Let’s Talk’ series provided valuable insights into the world of dermal fillers and the importance of choosing the right products and techniques for achieving natural-looking and long-lasting results. With the expertise and experience of Dr Matang and Dr Bhuraria, attendees gained a deeper understanding of the science behind these innovative products and the best practices for incorporating them into their practice.

Management of Melasma and Hyperpigmentation: Global and Indian Perspective

Aesthetic Medicine India’s webinar on ‘Melasma & Hyperpigmentation – India & Global Perspective’, powered by IPCA, saw discussions on the therapeutic approaches to treat pigmentation disorders by eminent speakers from the dermatology field. The webinar was divided into five parts, with international and Indian experts sharing their experiences and insights.

The first session was titled ‘International Perspective on Pigmentation in the Eye Area – the therapeutic approach’. Dr Uche Aniagwu, Founder, Dr Uche Tear Trough Academy, UK, shared his expertise on treating pigmentation around the eye area. He explained the different therapeutic approaches and techniques for treating hyperpigmentation and melasma.

The second session focused on ‘Platter of Cocktails in Melasma Management: Making a Genius Choice’ and provided an Indian perspective. The esteemed panel consisted of Dr Aseem Sharma, Chief Dermatologist, Skin Saga Centre for Dermatology in Mumbai; Dr Abhishek De, Senior Consultant, WIZDERM Skin and Hair Clinic in Kolkata and Associate Professor at Calcutta National Medical College; Dr Malavika Kohli, Dermatology and Aesthetics Director at Skin Secrets India and Consultant Dermatologist at Jaslok and Breach Candy Hospitals in Mumbai; Dr Padmavathi Surapaneni, Dermatologist and Cosmetologist, Pragna Skin and Laser Clinic in Hyderabad; and Dr Rashmi Sarkar, Director Professor at the Department of Dermatology, Lady Hardinge Medical College and Associated Hospitals in New Delhi. They discussed the various therapeutic options available in India and shared case studies and insights on their experiences treating melasma.

The third session, titled ‘International Perspective: PRP for Melasma’, was presented by Dr Teresita Ferrariz, Board of Director, International Society for Dermatologic Surgery (ISDS) Philippines. She discussed the use of PRP therapy for treating melasma.

The fourth session was led by Dr Raj Thethi, Founder, Yorkshire Skin Centre, UK. It and focused on ‘Procedural Options in Melasma Management’ from an international perspective. Dr Thethi shared his experience treating patients with melasma and discussed the various procedural options available to treat this condition.

The fifth and final session discussed ‘Procedural Options in Melasma Management’ from an Indian perspective. The esteemed panel consisted of Dr Apratim Goel, Medical Director and Founder, Cutis Skin Solution in Mumbai; Dr Jagdish Sakhiya, Director, Sakhiya Skin Clinic in Mumbai; Dr Chiranjiv Chhabra, Dermatologist and Director-in-Chief, Alive Wellness Clinic; Dr Rajesh Nair, Founder, SkinCare Speciality Centre in Thiruvananthapuram; and Dr Falguni Shah, Dermatologist, Cosmetologist and Founder, Radiance Skin Clinic in Mumbai. The doctors discussed the various procedural options available in India and shared their experiences and case studies.

The knowledge session proved to be informative and helpful to dermatologists and practitioners in treating pigmentation disorders. With the participation of international and Indian experts, the session provided a comprehensive understanding of the therapeutic approaches available to treat melasma and hyperpigmentation.

To plan your webinars with us, write in to shriyal.s@ideas-exchange.in and vishakha.sonawane@ideas-exchange.in