Aesthetic Body Treatments

Aesthetic body treatments encompass various non-surgical methods aimed at enhancing and sculpting the body’s contours. They include advanced technologies and injectables that target skin tightening, uneven skin tone and texture, and collagen stimulation, resulting in improved skin texture and firmness, to achieve a more youthful and refreshed appearance.

At Dr. Nerina Wilkinson + Associates, our approach to aesthetic body treatments are centred on individualised care and cutting-edge technology. 

We strategically utilise MORPHEUS8™ Body and PLLA bio-stimulators to sculpt and rejuvenate the body, focusing on areas prone to skin laxity and uneven skin tone and texture. Our goal is to achieve balanced, natural-looking results through personalised treatment plans. 

This tailored approach ensures each client experiences a transformation that enhances their body contours while ensuring comfort and minimal downtime.

Start your body contouring journey today! Contact us to book a consultation.

Aesthetic body treatments such as PLLA bio-stimulators and MORPHEUS8™ are ideal for adults seeking to enhance body contours and skin tone and texture without surgery. 

Additionally, ideal candidates are those with a stable weight and realistic expectations for natural, rejuvenating results.

At our clinic, aesthetic body treatments harness the power of MORPHEUS8™ Body and bio stimulators to target skin laxity and mild to moderate fat through non-invasive modalities.

Poly-L-Lactic acid bio-stimulators stimulate collagen production, gradually tightening and strengthening tissue over 3 to 12 months, with results lasting up to 2 years. 

Meanwhile, MORPHEUS8™ Body utilises radio-frequency micro-needling to stimulate collagen, enhancing skin elasticity. Additionally, it is FDA-approved for contouring in areas such as the chin, neck, arms, abdomen, and thighs. 

Personalised treatment plans, which are typically set up as a series of sessions, are tailored to your individual concerns and body, aiming for natural, rejuvenating results with minimal downtime.

Aesthetic body treatments can treat various areas across the body. PLLA bio-stimulators can be used to treat and tighten skin on the hands, neck, arms, abdomen, legs, and buttocks. 

MORPHEUS8™, FDA-approved for fat reduction, targets delicate areas like the chin and larger regions such as the thighs and buttocks. It’s suitable for individuals seeking non-invasive skin tightening and contouring, addressing issues such as uneven texture and mild fatty deposits. 

MORPHEUS8™ can also complement liposuction for comprehensive sculpting.

The aesthetic body treatment, utilising technologies like MORPHEUS8™ Body and/or PLLA bio stimulators, offers numerous benefits. 

MORPHEUS8™ BODY:

• Increases collagen production 
• Tightens loose skin 
• Reduces fatty deposits and the appearance of cellulite 
• Improves skin quality with minimal downtime 

PLLA bio-stimulators are ideal for those with skin laxity.

Both treatments provide minimally invasive body contouring, addressing specific concerns like stretch marks and laxity in the neck. Overall, individuals experience enhanced body aesthetics, firmer skin, and improved confidence, making it suitable for those seeking non-surgical rejuvenation and body contouring.

Results from PLLA bio-stimulators may take between 6 and 12 weeks to become visible, which is when the second treatment is typically administered. With MORPHEUS8™, patients may see visible improvements within 2 weeks and continue to see improvements over 3 months post-treatment.

The number of aesthetic body treatments required varies across patients. For PLLA, it depends on factors such as your age, area treated, and collagen response, with a recommended top-up treatment every 18 to 24 months. MORPHEUS8™ typically involves three sessions spaced 6 to 8 weeks apart, tailored to your individual needs and determined during consultation or after the first session with your doctor.

For optimal results, PLLA treatments are recommended every 18 to 24 months, while MORPHEUS8™ sessions are spaced 6 to 8 weeks apart. Your doctor will tailor the treatment frequency to your individual needs during your consultation to ensure effective and sustained results.

MORPHEUS8™ sessions usually require 45 to 60 minutes, with additional time for arrival and discharge. Before your MORPHEUS8™ treatment, your treating doctor will prescribe pain medication and a light sedative for comfort. Please note that driving home won’t be possible, so you will need to arrange transport from the clinic. For safety, we don’t use Uber/taxi services for transportation.

PLLA bio-stimulator treatments typically last 45 to 60 minutes, and you can return home immediately with no downtime.

PLLA bio-stimulator injections require no downtime. MORPHEUS8™ Body treatments may have minimal downtime, usually ranging from a few hours to a day. Individual recovery times vary based on factors such as the treatment area and skin sensitivity. However, MORPHEUS8™ treatments may require additional planning and skin preparation compared to PLLA injections to mitigate the risk of pigment formation in skin prone to such issues. Typically, patients experience short downtime post-treatment, with no need for extensive recovery measures. Your doctor will provide specific aftercare instructions to optimise your healing and results.

For PLLA injections, the total cost of treatment depends on factors such as the treatment area, your personal goals, and the amount of product required, all of which will be determined during your consultation. 

MORPHEUS8™ Body treatments range from R17,000 to R20,000 per session, with package deals available. Consultation fees for these body treatments are R1,120. Your doctor will provide a personalised estimate based on your individual needs and desired outcomes during your initial consultation.

Yes, aesthetic body treatments are safe when administered by qualified professionals in a clinical setting. Before treatment, your doctor will ensure your comfort and safety, providing necessary medication and precautions. It’s important to follow post-treatment instructions for optimal results and safety.

While aesthetic body treatments offer numerous benefits, it’s important to consider the potential risks, side effects, and complications.

MORPHEUS8™ Body: Potential risks include fever blisters, skin redness, swelling, changes in skin texture or pigmentation, and scarring. These effects are rare and temporary, with redness and swelling lasting up to 3 weeks. Complications like burns and pigmentation changes are rare but may occur, especially without proper preparation or aftercare.

PLLA bio-stimulators: Common side effects include redness, swelling, pain, tenderness, itching, and small bumps under the skin. Rare complications may include numbness, allergic reactions, infections, and issues related to medical conditions or medications. It’s important to follow post-treatment instructions and to contact your doctor if you experience any concerning symptoms.

When administered in a sterile medical setting by an experienced specialist, the risks associated with aesthetic body treatments can be considerably reduced.

Preparing for your aesthetic body treatment is essential to ensure optimal results and minimise potential risks. Here’s what you need to do beforehand.

What to do before the Morpheus8™ Body treatment

To ensure your MORPHEUS8™ Body treatment goes smoothly, follow these preparatory steps:

• Avoid waxing and exfoliation: Cease any waxing and skin exfoliation treatments at least one week before your appointment to minimise skin sensitivity and ensure the best possible condition for treatment.
• Limit sun exposure: Avoid direct sunlight and refrain from tanning sessions for 5 days before the treatment to reduce the risk of adverse reactions and ensure an even skin response.
• Medication review: Discuss all your current medications, including over-the-counter products, with your doctor to identify any that may need to be paused or adjusted before the treatment.
• Plan transportation: Given the potential use of premedication, pain medication, and light sedatives to enhance comfort during the procedure, arrange for a friend or family member to drive you home post-treatment.
• Skin preparation: Your doctor will clean the treatment area and apply a topical or local anaesthetic to minimise discomfort. Follow any specific instructions provided for the pre-treatment care of your skin.

Day of the MORPHEUS8™ Body treatment

On the day of your MORPHEUS8™ Body treatment, it’s important to be prepared for the procedure to ensure it’s as comfortable and effective as possible:

• Arrive prepared: Wear comfortable clothing that allows easy access to the treatment area and is suitable for after-care comfort.
• Pre-treatment consultation: Complete any final consultations with your doctor to discuss the specific details of your treatment and any last-minute questions or concerns.
• Anaesthetic application: Expect the treatment area to be cleansed and a topical or local anaesthetic applied to minimise discomfort during the procedure.
• Treatment process: The Morpheus8™ handpiece will be used over the treatment area, with insulated needles delivering fractional radio frequency to targeted depths for optimal skin rejuvenation.
• Comfort measures: Be aware of sensations like muscle twitching or a quick snap feeling, which are normal parts of the treatment process due to the radiofrequency energy being applied.

After the MORPHEUS8™ Body treatment

Following your MORPHEUS8™ Body treatment, it’s normal to experience a variety of skin reactions as part of the healing process. Pinpoint bleeding may be noticed immediately after the procedure but should subside quickly. 

The treated area can exhibit redness lasting from a few hours to up to three weeks, particularly in sensitive skin types, along with localised swelling for a few days. It’s common to experience sensations similar to sunburn, such as sensitivity and warmth. 

While bruising is rare, it can occur, along with the appearance of tiny scabs and ‘grid marks’ on the skin, which are expected to heal within a few weeks. Initially, the skin might feel roughened and appear laxer, but these are temporary states before the skin begins to tighten and rejuvenate.

AFTERCARE PRODUCTS AND ADVICE

• Gentle cleansing: Wash the treated area twice daily, morning and evening, with a gentle cleanser that doesn’t contain any active ingredients. Use lukewarm or cool water for rinsing.
• Hydration and healing: Apply a recommended healing ointment or moisturiser to keep the skin hydrated and support the healing process, especially during the first 1–3 days post-treatment.
• Sun protection: Starting on the third morning after treatment, apply a broad-spectrum SPF 50 sunscreen to the treated areas every 4–6 hours. This is crucial for protecting your skin against UV damage and should be continued for at least 4 weeks post-procedure.
• Cover up: When going outdoors, enhance sun protection by wearing a wide-brimmed hat and dressing in soft, protective clothing that covers the treated areas.
• Avoid certain products: Stay away from retinols, exfoliating agents, and any skincare products with active ingredients until your skin has completely recovered.
• Handle skin gently: Do not scratch, pick, or rub the skin, even if flaking occurs. Let any flaking skin shed naturally.
• Limit physical activity: Avoid vigorous exercise and activities that might cause excessive sweating or strain in the treated areas for at least 2 days after your treatment.

What to do before the PLLA bio-stimulator treatment

2 weeks prior to your treatment 

Preparing for your PLLA bio-stimulator treatment involves important steps to minimise risks and ensure the best outcome:

• Health status update: Inform your healthcare provider if you have been ill, undergone any other procedures, or received any dental treatments within 2 weeks of your scheduled PLLA treatment.
• Procedure and dental work planning: Avoid planning any medical procedures or dental work for 2 weeks after your PLLA bio-stimulator session to reduce the risk of infection and prevent complications.
• Medication review: Discuss your current medications with your provider, as some may need to be adjusted or stopped temporarily.
• Avoid certain substances: Steer clear of supplements and medications that can increase bruising and bleeding, such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and certain herbal supplements, unless advised otherwise by your healthcare provider.
• Stay hydrated and healthy: Maintain good hydration and a healthy diet to support your body’s preparation for the treatment.

1 week prior to your treatment 

One week before your PLLA bio-stimulator treatment, it’s crucial to prepare your body to minimise any potential side effects:

• Limit certain foods and supplements: Refrain from consuming alcohol, garlic, and fish oil supplements, which can increase the risk of bruising and bleeding.
• Medication adjustments: Avoid taking aspirin, ibuprofen, and other anti-inflammatory drugs that can affect pain, swelling, or fever. These substances can also increase the likelihood of bruising or bleeding in the treated area.
• Consult healthcare providers: Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about any medications you’re currently taking to ensure they don’t contain ingredients that should be avoided.

Day of the PLLA bio-stimulator treatment

On the day of your PLLA bio-stimulator treatment, follow these guidelines to ensure your skin is properly prepared to achieve the best possible results:

• Shower and cleanse: Ensure you shower on the morning of your treatment. Clean skin is crucial. Your skin will also be disinfected by your doctor prior to and during your procedure.
• Appropriate attire: Wear comfortable underwear that allows easy access to the treatment area. If receiving treatment on the buttocks, a G-string is recommended for sterility and ease of access.
• Update medical history: Be forthright about any recent changes in your medical history to your healthcare provider. Accurate information is vital for a safe treatment process and effective results.
• Arrive relaxed and prepared: Come to your appointment relaxed and mentally prepared for your treatment, knowing that you’ve taken all necessary steps for a successful session.

After the PLLA bio-stimulator treatment

Following your PLLA bio-stimulator treatment, adhering to specific aftercare instructions is essential for optimal results and minimising any potential complications:

• For the first 2 days: Refrain from engaging in high-intensity exercises or activities. Additionally, avoid exposure to sunlight, tanning beds, and extreme weather conditions to ensure the product settles properly.
• For the first 5 days: Massage the treated area 5 times a day for five minutes, as shown by your doctor immediately after your treatment. This routine is crucial for optimal product diffusion and skin stimulation. If the area is too sensitive, consider using a jade roller for the massage during the initial 2 days.
• For the first 2 weeks: It is important to avoid any dental and medical procedures to prevent any risk of infection and ensure the best healing environment for the treated area.

Please follow these guidelines carefully to support the healing process and achieve the best possible outcomes. Remember, while no treatment can stop the ageing process entirely, maintaining the effects with top-up treatments is possible. Consult with your doctor to determine the best timing for any future appointments.

Dr. Nerina Wilkinson + Associates stands as the premier destination for aesthetic body treatments in Cape Town, located within the luxurious V&A Waterfront. This clinic, established by Dr. Wilkinson, marries elegance with cutting-edge aesthetic technology, ensuring clients receive unparalleled care in a comfortable and sophisticated environment.