Susan Van Dyke, M.D., a world-renowned, board certified dermatologist recognized as an expert in cosmetic skin care, presented a landmark study evaluating the effectiveness of combining Smartlipo? and Thermage? versus using them as stand-alone therapies to reduce fat and sagging skin on the neck, at the 25th Anniversary Scientific Meeting for the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery (AACS). One surprising finding was that Thermage-only treatments yielded greater patient satisfaction and, in most cases, an outcome equal to that of the combined therapy that requires some downtime. Heather Anderson, R.N, Geoffrey Hays and Tamela Tripp, M.D. contributed to the study, Combined Skin Tightening and Fat Reduction, that was presented on Jan. 16th in Phoenix.

'We are constantly seeking to determine the optimal care to provide our patients with the best outcome so we don't under or over treat, and this study provides some much-needed guidance for certain patients,' said Dr. Van Dyke. 'However, like all medical care, cosmetic dermatology treatment should always be customized to meet the needs and goals of each patient.'

She added, 'For example, in my experience, combining the treatments can be very beneficial for older patients with heavier necks. Smartlipo removes the fat, but because of reduced skin elasticity, patients often still have folds in their neck and Thermage alone doesn't reduce enough fat to provide the desired outcome. My patients who were good candidates, have experienced a profound improvement in sagging, fat reduction and overall skin rejuvenation through combination treatment plans.'

Thermage is the only non-invasive procedure available that tightens and renews the skin's collagen in one treatment. Smartlipo is a minimally invasive procedure that uses laser technology to melt and liquefy fat.

Dr. Van Dyke will offer an informal, educational seminar on the latest information about Thermage, Smartlipo and combination therapies to help Valley residents determine their ideal treatment during *Van Dyke Laser & Skin's 24th Annual Open House & Charity Event on Jan. 24th at 2:15 p.m. at 5206 North Scottsdale Road, Paradise Valley. Attendees will receive a 10 percent discount and those who bring a friend will receive a 20 percent discount on all cosmetic services and products from Dr. Van Dyke the day of the event-services will be scheduled at the patient's convenience after the event. For more information about Dr. Van Dyke's research or the event, please call 480.948.5045.

ABOUT VAN DYKE LASER & SKIN
Named the 'Top Medspa' by Arizona Woman magazine in 2007 and 2008, Van Dyke Laser & Skin was one of the first dermatology practices in the world to focus exclusively on cosmetic dermatology. Founder, Susan Van Dyke, M.D., has performed more than 10,000 non-invasive cosmetic procedures and has received the 'Physician's Recognition Award' from the American Medical Association each practicing year. She is a top consultant and national physician trainer for Medicis, Allergan, Thermage and Lumenis; on the speakers bureau for Clinique Medical and Obagi; a 'Platinum Plus' BOTOX Cosmetic and Juv?derm Provider; and her practice is designated as a BOTOX Cosmetic National Training Center. Dr. Van Dyke is also on the advisory board for Valeant Pharmaceuticals and is recognized as an expert in 'combination therapy' by the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery. For more information, visit www.VanDykeLaser.com.

Hours of operation for Van Dyke Laser & Skin are Tues.-Fri. from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm and Sat. from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Consultations and appointments can be booked through 480.948.5045.

About Van Dyke Laser & Skin's 24th Annual Open House and Charity Event
Van Dyke Laser & Skin's 24th Annual Open House and Charity Event will be held on Saturday, Jan. 24th from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. to benefit American Heart Association's Go Red for Women and United Blood Services. Located at 5206 North Scottsdale Road, Paradise Valley, AZ 85253, event festivities include a Go Red for Women silent auction for cosmetic dermatology treatments and a free BOTOX raffle for blood drive donors. The free, festival-like event will also offer refreshments, informative lectures, demonstrations and participation by Clinique Medical, SkinMedica, Kinerase, Obagi, BOTOX Cosmetic, Juv?derm, Restylane, Smartlipo, Thermage, ActiveFX and more.