From lashes to skin treatments, The SHAW Center carries a wide variety of powerful, pharmaceutical strength products that can promote healthy skin and enhance your appearance.  Although we love all of the products we carry, like Oprah, we have compiled a list of our top five favorite products of 2014. 
Be on the lookout starting Monday, December 15 for each of our favorite products to be featured on our Facebook (The SHAW Center – Plastic Surgery – Skin – Laser) and Instagram (@TheSHAWCenter).  One product will be featured each day next week and when it makes the list, you will have the opportunity to take 10% off that product.  We will also be featuring a giveaway of 2 Latisse and 2 Nectifirm.  The following are our favorite products and why we love them!
Clarisonic Brush: Smooth, clean skin creates the perfect canvas and that’s why we love the numerous benefits of the Clarisonic.  This product helps remove 6x more makeup than manual cleansing, leaves skin feeling and looking smoother, cleanses so well that products absorb better, helps reduce oily areas, dry skin patches and blemishes, and also helps reduce the appearance of visible pores.
GlamGlow Glamtastick Masks: Since hitting the market in 2011, GlamGlow has been one of the most sought after beauty brands.  Their products help combat common skin concerns and are targeted for men and women of all ages and skin types.    
Latisse: Forgo the falsies and get the real thing with Latisse.  Latisse is the first eyelash treatment that has been approved and proven effective by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). 
Nectifirm made by Revision Skincare: Take charge and transform a turkey neck with Nectifirm.  This amazing product helps tone and enhances the firmness and texture of your neck.
ZO Daily Power Defense: This powerful product contains time-released retinol, antioxidants and specialized DNA-repairing enzymes to consistently aid in reducing UV oxidative damage and uneven pigmentation while simultaneously repairing skin function and elasticity. 

            When the word injectable is mentioned, the first thought that typically comes to the majority of people is Botox.  Although the FDA approved Botox in 2002, there have been alternative injectables introduced to the market since then.  Dysport was approved by the FDA in 2009 and then Xeomin in 2011.
            Like Botox, Xeomin is a “prescription medication used to temporarily improve the appearance of moderate to severe frown lines between the eyebrows (glabellar lines) in adults and contains botulinum toxin type A, a protein purified from the bacterium Clostridium botulinum,” according to www.origin.library.constantcontact.com 
              Xeomin provides the latest and most innovative research and results accessible in neutrotoxin (Botox).  Initial results from the injectable can be expected within 7 days after treatment.  Full results will typically be noticeable around the first 30 days.  Results from Xeomin can last up to 3 full months, however, they may be remarkably longer or slightly shorter depending on the patient. 
            Standard facial expressions throughout the day such as squinting or frowning requires the muscles between your eyebrows to contract, resulting in the skin to groove and crease.  As you begin to age, your skin slowly loses its elasticity, which then usually creates frequent frown lines.  Botulinum toxin type A, the main component in Xeomin, work on nerve endings in muscles to combat muscle fibers from shrinking.  This process briefly minimizes the wrinkles on your forehead and other problem areas on your face.
            If you’d like to receive additional information about Xeomin or would like to schedule an appointment, contact The SHAW Center at (480) 767-1900. 

            Plastic surgery has dated as far back as 3000 to 2500 BC from findings of treatments to mend a broken nose in the Edwin Smith Papyrus, which is a transcription of an Ancient Egyptian medical text.  Needless to say, advancements in plastic surgery have come a long way since then, let alone the past decade.  
            Although there are reports of plastic surgery being mentioned in various texts prior, Gaspare Tagliacozzi wrote the first verifiable textbook on plastic surgery, focusing mainly on nasal reconstruction, in the late 16th century.  In 1910, Dr. Vilray Blair published novel methods about skin grafting.  He’s credited for starting a number of university and military training facilities devoted to plastic surgery prior to and post WWI. 
The very first reported breast augmentation was carried out in 1895.  The procedure consisted of transferring tissue from the back of the breast in order to repair breast asymmetry.  Beginning in 1899, paraffin, beeswax and vegetable oil were utilized as injectable substances for breast implants.  We’ve come a long way since then considering silicon and saline implants are used in modern day procedures.  In fact, the silicone breast implant was first established in 1962.      
Dr. John Davis established the original formal training program and fellowship in plastic surgery in 1924 at John Hopkins.  Davis was also the very first professor of plastic surgery in the US.
Joseph Murray, an American Society of Plastic Surgeons Member Surgeon, performed the first organ transplant, a kidney, in 1954.  The first successful hand transplant was then performed by Warren Breidenbach, an American Society of Plastic Surgeons Member Surgeon, in 1999. 
Liposuction was first introduced to the United States from France in 1982.  Since then, body contouring has been in place since 2000 in order to tighten and remove excess skin after a major weight loss. 
Since the initial stages of plastic surgery, there has been a magnitude of growth and innovations.  Dr. Shaw utilizes the most cutting edge techniques and equipment for all of his procedures.  If you’re interested in a consultation or would like to schedule an appointment, contact the SHAW Center at (480) 767- 1900.     

            Kids often have a mind of their own and explaining a plastic surgery procedure to them may be difficult or uncomfortable.  Everyone has a different approach to parenting and some would like to explain their procedure to their kids while others would like to keep it a secret.  If you choose to share, here are some ways to approach the conversation.
            As many women begin to age, especially those who’ve had children, their body just isn’t what it once was even with diet and exercise.  The majority of moms who opt for a plastic surgery procedure are merely trying to restore what they once had.  Once you decide to have a procedure, the next thought many women have is what they will tell their children.  If you decide to discuss your procedure with your kid(s), one of the essential elements is to keep the conversation age appropriate.  If your child is very young, they may not fully understand all of the elements.  However, since plastic surgery has become drastically popular they may have already been exposed to the subject through the Internet or television depending on their age.  After all, moms know best so determine if an open conversation with more details is best for your child.
            Incorporating inner beauty into the conversation with your child is encouraged.  Touch on the fact that you’re having a procedure to restore self-confidence and to enhance your inner beauty.  It’s also a good idea to explain to them that they’re exemplary just the way they are and since you’re having a procedure that doesn’t mean anything is wrong with them.  If you’re having a procedure that relates to pregnancy, explain to them that you don’t have any regrets having children and it was your choice to have children in the first place.  “I think the right approach is to plainly explain that there was something you were unhappy with and you decided to fix it,” said Dan Ariely, a three-time New York Times bestselling author and Professor of Psychology and Behavioral Economics at Duke University. 
            If your children are aware of your procedure and approach you down the road about having plastic surgery themselves and you’re opposed to the idea, you can explain to them that you decided to have your procedure once you fully matured and knew it was the proper decision for you.
            Undergoing a procedure is a personal choice and the person undergoing the procedure knows his or her family better than anyone.  Our tips are purely suggestions, so decide what the best approach to the topic would be for you and your family!    

            More than one million Botox treatments are now being carried out each year for the first time, according to www.dailymail.co.uk.com.  Although the number of people beginning to receive Botox is skyrocketing, there are still a lot of myths about the popular injection out there.  We’re here to set the bar straight and bust the myths so you know what to expect for your first time or the next time around.
            First off, many believe that Botox and fillers are the same thing.  Muscle movement forms wrinkles, which makes Botox the ideal tool to relax the muscle and level out skin.  Fillers are utilized to fill in the skin around the wrinkle.    
            A “frozen” face is a common correlation with Botox, however this isn’t always the case.  Your results depend on where you decide to go to receive the treatment. Having Botox done from a reputable, board-certified plastic surgeon or dermatologist will ensure a reliable, secure and aesthetically pleasing procedure. 
            Some may believe that the results of Botox are immediate and last a while.  This all depends on the person but a patient should expect to see full results within about five days.  You can anticipate your results to last approximately 3 to 4 months.    
            Wrinkles are not the only use for Botox although it’s the most common.  The intention for Botox is to paralyze a certain muscle.  Botox has been endorsed by the FDA for frequent health-related cases to tackle overactive bladders, migraines, and muscle spasms aside from wrinkles.  People automatically presume that Botox is an uncomfortable procedure since needles are involved, however the majority of patients report that the treatment is bearable.  If you’re wary of needles, a local anesthetic cream can be applied to your face an hour before the procedure in order to numb your skin. 
            Want to save on Botox?  Join us for Botox Days at the SHAW Center Spa on Wednesday, November 12 from 9 AM – 5 PM.  Spin our wheel for savings: 10%, 15%, 20%, 50% off, $100 off, or win FREE Botox!  Space is limited for the event, please call us at (480) 767-1900 to schedule an appointment.  While you’re at it, enjoy 10% off ALL skin care product purchases the day of the event as well. 

           

            Although Vitamin C is commonly used to treat colds, this single most popular vitamin has other numerous health benefits as well.  Lee, one of our fabulous skin experts, shares that one of her favorite beauty secrets is achieving healthy, glowing skin from the power of Vitamin C.
            “Vitamin C is an antioxidant that slows the rate of free-radical damage – free radicals are unstable molecules that damage collagen and cause skin dryness, fine lines and wrinkles,” according to www.howstuffworks.com 
            Vitamin C plays a crucial role in collagen production that not only helps give your skin firmness and strength but also makes it convenient to heal different types of wounds.  When taken orally, Vitamin C aids in faster and better healing for cuts, broken bones, burns, and recovery from surgical procedures.  
Applying Vitamin C topically can help shield your skin from free radical damage once exposed to ultraviolet (UV) rays.  It can also reduce sunburn and prevent the outcome of long-term sun exposure, which can develop into skin cancer.  With that said, it’s not safe to apply Vitamin C and then bask in the sun, it mainly ensures that your skin is receiving enough antioxidants and helps keep your skin healthy and soft.
Bodies don’t naturally store Vitamin C and an abundant amount is flushed out through your kidneys, so your supply needs to be replenished every day.  Aside from multivitamins or vitamin C supplements, there are a wide variety of foods that will help get your daily dose such as citrus fruits, bell peppers, cauliflower, broccoli, spinach, and tomatoes.  In order to enhance collagen production and fight free radicals, apply topical vitamin C to your skin.  “Look for a facial cleanser or moisturizer that contains the L-ascorbic acid form of vitamin C to ensure the vitamin penetrates your skin layers,” according to www.howstuffworks.com
              

            If you are receiving a procedure from the SHAW Center Spa, all treatments will be performed within our office.  For more invasive procedures, there are several options for surgical facilities.  The North Scottsdale Outpatient Surgery Center is a modern, state-of-the-art facility conveniently located on the first floor of our building, offering a comfortable private outpatient surgery option.  The Piper Outpatient Surgery supplies a personalized high quality care for patients undergoing a surgical procedure.  Dr Shaw is also on the staff of Good Samaritan Hospital and St. Joseph’s Hospital with full admitting and outpatient surgical privileges.
The North Scottsdale Outpatient Surgery Center’s highly trained staff will work with you before, during and after surgery to help you feel as comfortable as possible.  The facility is a fully AAAASF-accredited Ambulatory Surgical Facility, meaning that it is frequently inspected and evaluated to be accredited by the program.  The AAAASF preserves the highest standard of excellence for the facilities it certifies and regularly updates its requirements for safety and quality of care.
            The operating suite within the North Scottsdale Outpatient Surgery Center is fully prepared, providing general anesthesia and innovative instruments and monitoring devices for patient safety throughout surgery and recovery.  Board-certified anesthesiologists perform all procedures that involve anesthesia and all staff members are certified in Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS).
            The Piper Outpatient Surgery Center supplies tailored, high caliber care for patients enduring a surgical procedure.  This surgery center is located on the Shea Campus of Scottsdale Healthcare.  Patients experience comprehensive nursing care from the moment they are admitted until they are properly discharged.  On top of that, Piper provides a remarkable quiet nursing care unit that creates a relaxed, therapeutic environment for patients that need to extend their stay for 1 to 2 days.  This unit also enables one adult family member to stay overnight with the patient.  

            

          Have you been considering a treatment or product in the SHAW Center Spa?  Now’s the perfect time with our Exclusively You Event, the event you’ve been waiting for!  Here’s your chance to save 10% on absolutely EVERYTHING in the SHAW Center Spa.  Yes this includes Botox®, Dysport®, Juvederm®, Voluma™, IPL/Fotofacial, CoolSculpting®, Laser Hair Removal, Facials, Chemical Peels, Rejuvenating Treatments and MORE!
        This special event will be held from July 22-24, all day, all services, all products in the SHAW Center Spa.  Call now to reserve your discounted medical aesthetic and spa services at (480) 767-1900.  Also enter to WIN a free Latisse® and Rejuvenating Skin treatments.  Treat yourself and bring a friend, we can’t wait to meet them. 
The SHAW Center spa offers a broad range of services such as Botox, Dysport, Juvederm, Belotero, Restylane, Radiesse, Sculptra, Laser Hair Removal, Fotofacial, Facials & Peels, Microdermabrasion, Laser Resurfacing, Latisse, Lash & Brow tint and Hair Waxing.  The majority of the services have no downtime and minimal discomfort.
To see a full list of medical spa services offered, visit the SHAW Center’s website.
            Dr. Shaw has a high level of expertise and experience within the plastic surgery industry.  He was originally born and raised in Long Island, New York and completed his undergraduate at Emory University.  He received his medical degree from New York Medical College in 1979 and then continued to achieve a five-year General Surgery residency.  He completed his plastic surgery residency training at the Phoenix Integrated Plastic Surgery residency in 1986.

            Since then Dr. Shaw has performed thousands of plastic surgery procedures.  He is now a double-boarded Plastic Surgeon, which demanded 7 years of surgical training alone.  He is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, the only board recognized by the American Board of Medical Specialties to certify doctors in Plastic Surgery.  He is also certified by the American Board of Surgery.                  

            The American Board of Plastic Surgery only certifies physicians who have completed the following:
  • Medical School
  • A specialized residency in Surgery, Otolaryngology, or Orthopedics
  • A Plastic Surgery residency
  • A rigorous set of oral and written examinations

            Aside from his certifications he is also a member of regional and national medical societies including the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) and The American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery.
            Throughout his 25+ years of performing plastic surgery in the Phoenix/Scottsdale area, he has been recognized and awarded with numerous achievements.  Some of his recognitions include receiving the most votes in the category of Plastic Surgery and was also named the “Top Doc” in Plastic Surgery in Phoenix Magazine in 2010, 2011, 2012 and 2014.  He was named “Top Doc” in both Plastic Surgery categories – Body and Facial Plastic Surgery in 2013.  The readers of Scottsdale Magazine also voted Dr. Shaw as the “Best Plastic Surgeon in Scottsdale.”
           Dr. Shaw now exclusively practices Cosmetic Plastic Surgery utilizing the most innovative techniques available such as endoscopic facial and breast surgery and ultrasonic and laser assisted liposuction (SmartLipo).  Find out more about Dr. Shaw along with reviews, photos, and frequently asked questions at www.realself.com
            Now that summer is in swing, are your legs prepared for their debut?  From bathing suits to dresses and shorts, we’re sure you’re legs will have their fair share of exposure during the hot months.  Forget the hassle of shaving and opt for LightSheerâ DUET, permanent hair reduction.
            In order to temporarily eliminate unwanted hair people used to turn to messy, painful solutions such as waxing, shaving, plucking, electrolysis or chemical depilatories.  Laser hair removal is more beneficial than these alternative treatments and provides permanent results.  The High Speed LightSheer DUET uses state-of-the-art diode lasers with vacuum-assist technology to remove unwanted hair.  The method is more efficient than other treatments due to greater speed and comfort.  
            The High Speed LightSheer DUET is a laser that creates a bigger beam of extremely concentrated light.  The light released is well absorbed by the pigment within the hair follicles.  Throughout the procedure, the laser pulses for a fraction of a second, enabling the hair to absorb the light and warm up.  As the light warms up, the hair shaft and bulb are damaged which remarkably hinders the hairs potential to re-grow.  Since the light has a large beam, the treatment tackles a copious amount of hair follicles concurrently, creating a much faster alternative to other traditional laser hair removal options.
            The LightSheer DUET provides two handpiece options, depending on your needs.  The innovative vacuum assisted technology within the handpiece combined with diode laser light enables quick and comfortable treatment to large areas.  A back or legs can be treated within 15 to 20 minutes sans numbing cream.  It is necessary to have multiple laser hair removal treatments because the laser is ideal when hairs are in an early growth stage and all of the hairs are not in this phase at the same time. 
            If you are interested in the High Speed LightSheer Duet for permanent hair reduction, contact the Shaw Center at (480) 767-1900 for additional information or to schedule an appointment.