Renuvion and the Weight Loss Revolution

The aesthetics industry has experienced a significant evolution, adapting to changing body trends and the growing demand for advanced surgical techniques and minimally invasive procedures. These developments have been driven by increasingly sophisticated consumer expectations, often pushing the boundaries of traditional beauty standards. The shift from the “bigger is better” philosophy to a preference for a more natural and refined aesthetic is reflective of broader societal changes, indicating a continuous transformation in the perception of beauty and wellness.

This transformation in aesthetic preferences extends into body contouring, where there has been a distinct shift from procedures aimed at maximal augmentation, such as the Brazilian Butt Lifts (BBLs) that focused

on significant fat injection, to a focus on achieving an athletic and natural appearance. This evolution mirrors the changes seen in facial fillers, where the

trend of overfilling has given way to a technique that enhances contours while maintaining balance. Current strategies in aesthetic medicine focus on reshaping and refining the contours to enhance natural features more prominently. The notion of creating structural support to achieve “Pilates bodies” underscores a move towards procedures that offer both aesthetic appeal and physical functionality, resonating with a broad audience that values subtle yet effective enhancements. This shift towards less invasive methods continues to grow, providing clients with the opportunity to achieve desired results with minimal downtime and risks.

In addition to these cosmetic advancements, there is a notable increase and interest for weight loss solutions that are both effective and safe. Plastic surgeons and aesthetic professionals are observing heightened demand for treatments that not only improve physical appearance but also enhance overall well-being and offer sustainable results. This trend highlights a move towards integrating health and aesthetics, emphasizing long-term benefits and holistic approaches in the field of aesthetic medicine.

One key factor in this holistic approach is the rising popularity of Semiglutide, a medication initially used for the treatment of type 2 diabetes and obesity. In
the United States, Semiglutide has seen significant uptake as a weight management drug, with about 1.1 million patients using it annually1. In 2020, it ranked as the 129th most prescribed drug, reflecting its growing acceptance for obesity treatment2. By the end of

2022, healthcare providers wrote more than 9 million prescriptions for Semiglutide and related drugs within just three months, with Semiglutide accounting for around 7 million of these prescriptions3. This surge in popularity underscores a broader trend in aesthetic medicine that not only seeks to enhance appearance but also prioritizes overall health and long-term wellness.

Significant weight loss, while beneficial for overall health and wellness, often comes with the unintended consequence of reduced skin elasticity. When weight is lost quickly, the skin, which has been stretched over time, may not have sufficient time to retract along with the shrinking body mass. This leads to sagging or loose skin, particularly in areas like the abdomen, arms, thighs, and face. Such changes can significantly affect an individual’s satisfaction with their weight loss results and may lead to a desire for aesthetic treatments to address these issues. Consequently, there is a growing demand within the aesthetics industry for procedures that can tighten and refine the skin’s appearance. Treatments such as body contouring surgeries, laser therapy, and advanced non-invasive skin tightening techniques are increasingly sought after to help restore skin elasticity and achieve a more toned and
defined appearance.

Introducing Johnny Franco, MD

Introducing Johnny Franco, MD, a distinguished plastic surgeon and a leading figure in the weight loss revolution. Based in Austin, Texas, Dr. Franco brings years of expertise and a steadfast commitment to excellence. He is at the forefront of this transformative journey, dedicated to helping individuals achieve
the best versions of themselves through innovative aesthetic and reconstructive techniques.

Dr. Franco has encountered numerous patients concerned about weight loss and skin laxity, a common issue given that approximately 35% of Americans, or about 119 million people, are considered obese4. This widespread concern about weight resonates deeply across such a vast population. Engaging with individuals who face these challenges, having meaningful conversations with them, and guiding them through the corrective process are all essential. However, this requires a structured approach. Healthcare providers must be well-equipped to address the myriad side effects associated with loose skin following weight loss. Nearly everyone has some aspect of their appearance they wish to improve, even if it’s a minor adjustment. It’s a compelling insight that even patients who look stunning often express desires for subtle enhancements, such as a tighter tummy. This is where Renuvion becomes particularly relevant.

Renuvion employs advanced medical technology using a unique combination of helium plasma and proprietary radiofrequency energy, designed for precision in aesthetic procedures. This technology provides rapid heating with near-instantaneous tissue cooling, enabling significant skin contraction without extensive heat diffusion to surrounding tissue. Renuvion is FDA-cleared for various uses, including the improvement of lax skin in the neck and submental area, and the coagulation of subcutaneous soft tissues following liposuction. With its ability to achieve optimal temperatures for maximal thermal contraction, Renuvion ensures more collagen contraction faster and with greater efficiency compared to lower treatment temperatures. With approvals in over 70 countries and multiple unique FDA clearances, Renuvion stands as Dr. Franco’s tool of choice for effectively enhancing the skin, thereby enhancing aesthetic outcomes for those refining their contours following weight loss.

Driven by his own deeply personal weight loss journey, in which he lost about 85 pounds, Dr. Franco passionately extends his experience to his practice, making weight loss and skin treatment deeply intertwined aspects of his work. This transformative personal achievement not only bolsters his empathy but also fortifies the trust he shares with his patients, as they recognize him as both a mentor and a peer in their health journeys. His profound connection to weight loss inspires his patients to pursue their own transformations toward better health. Dr. Franco expresses his commitment, saying, “People have asked us, how do we get to see 3,000 weight loss patients a month in our office? I’ve done the journey myself. I am 100% all in. I believe the medications work, I believe in technologies like Renuvion, and I am deeply committed to helping others achieve their wellness goals.”

Dr. Franco shares: looking at the landscape of bariatric surgeries, there were an estimated 262,893 bariatric surgeries performed in 2021, reflecting a significant healthcare response to obesity. Obesity continues to be a major health concern, with over 70% of Americans classified as either overweight or obese. Projections indicate that by 2030, this number could rise to 80%. The high number of prescriptions for GLP-1s, exceeding 9 million in the fourth quarter of 2022 alone, underscores a widespread, increasing response to weight management in the U.S. This situation presents a unique market for Renuvion® and other similar technologies that address cosmetic and medical needs arising from significant weight loss, such as skin laxity.

Recent studies highlight that 45% of adults are interested in weight loss medications, and 59% are actively trying to lose weight*. However, those who achieve modest weight loss, typically between 10 to 20 pounds, often face challenges such as skin laxity, particularly prevalent in younger demographics. This group represents a growing segment for targeted treatments like Renuvion, designed to manage such post-weight loss conditions.

Dr. Franco discusses the evolving trends in body contouring and highlights the increasing number of patients presenting with skin laxity issues post-weight loss. He stresses the importance of delivering optimal treatments: “I want them to get the best treatment possible because happy patients lead to more happy patients. Loose skin is a significant concern for many, and it is our duty to guide them through the process and provide effective solutions. In my opinion, skin laxity will be the biggest issue in 2024, and if you don’t have the treatments to help patients, you risk losing them.”

The Weight Loss Revolution is transforming plastic surgery, appealing to a diverse demographic, and leading to a significant shift in the field. Practices that effectively engage with this population, addressing their specific needs, are not just surviving but thriving in this era of change.

DR. FRANCO IDENTIFIES SEVERAL UNIQUE TRENDS AND DEMOGRAPHIC SHIFTS IN HIS PRACTICE DUE TO THE WEIGHT LOSS REVOLUTION:

1. A younger population: “We see many young patients who have experienced weight loss and have minimal skin laxity that respond well to energy-based treatments. It’s crucial to offer alternatives to invasive procedures like facelifts for these patients. Missing out on this opportunity could be costly, as these are the patients who will remain with your practice for the long term. They are also interested in other treatments and appreciate procedures like arm and neck treatments that can be done in office with minimal downtime.”
2. Men as the next frontier: “The male demographic in aesthetic treatments is rapidly growing. Changing the marketing approach to resonate with men is essential, as traditional strategies often fall flat. Men are increasingly interested in weight loss and are very decisive once they visit a clinic, often ready to undergo procedures immediately.”
3. The new aesthetics gateway: “The intense effort many patients put into their weight loss journeys opens up numerous opportunities for further aesthetic enhancements. As patients see physical transformations, their excitement grows, not just for new clothes but for additional procedures as well. Personally, I’ve undergone more aesthetic procedures in the last six months than ever before, and we see this trend among our patients too.”

“In my opinion, skin laxity will be the biggest issue in 2024, and if you don’t have the treatments to help patients, you risk losing them.”

Johnny Franco, MD
Austin Plastic Surgeon

Dr. Franco emphasizes the importance of addressing loose skin to elevate patient outcomes fully. “Being part of the Weight Loss Revolution means taking your patients to the next level. The investment in their journey is substantial, and offering treatments for multiple areas and additional procedures is crucial for them to feel their best. They don’t resist recommendations for post-weight loss because they feel they’ve earned this. They want their appearance to reflect their hard work and enhanced self-esteem.”

Since incorporating Renuvion into our practice, we’ve observed remarkable improvements in outcomes with our patients. Renuvion stands out due to its unique combination of helium plasma with radiofrequency energy, which allows precise targeting in our advanced aesthetic procedures. The controlled heat application ensures significant subcutaneous soft tissue contraction while protecting surrounding tissues from damage. The results have been highly impressive, with patients quickly noticing enhancements in their skin and overall contours. These positive outcomes contribute significantly to patient satisfaction.

Since introducing Renuvion, we started slowly. Back in November of 2022, we were seeing about 40 patients. But we’ve grown significantly since then. By January, we’re projected to see about 1,900 patients for weight loss, despite a 30% increase in the pricing of our weight loss medications. We’ve reached a critical mass of what we can handle in our practice. But even removing the weight loss patients from the equation, our Med Spa’s business grew to still up 530%. This growth shows that patients are highly engaging with us, continuing to seek treatments whether or not they are pursuing weight loss specifically. Additionally, we have expanded our capabilities significantly. We now confidently treat areas like the arms and inner thighs, which I used to shy away from for fear of patient dissatisfaction due to loose skin. With Renuvion, we’ve overcome these challenges, and now patients come in knowing we can help them effectively.

A question I often hear is, “Is the skinny shot the end of aesthetics?” To this, I respond that there couldn’t be a more incorrect statement. My practice has absolutely exploded in popularity. We had a surgeon join us right out of residency a year and a half ago, and he’s already booked solid for the next three months. This surge in interest in cosmetic surgery, far from waning, is actually increasing. This enthusiasm underlines the growing demand for innovative solutions in aesthetic transformations. Integrating Renuvion into our offerings has been a game changer, allowing me and my team to enhance patient outcomes and meet the escalating interest with state-of-the-art technology.

Renuvion has redefined the possibilities for my practice and within the aesthetics and weight loss industry overall. Its advanced technology offers an innovative solution for enhancement and refinement of the skin. This approach ensures that every treatment is not only effective but also tailored to the individual needs of those seeking a more toned and defined appearance. Whether you’re looking to enhance your body contours after significant weight loss or seeking to improve skin laxity, Renuvion provides a safe and effective solution.

Are you ready to transform your practice with Renuvion, or simply want to learn more about how this technology can benefit your patients?

Visit us at https://physicians.renuvion.com/ or schedule a demo here: https://physicians.renuvion.com/general-inquiries/

DISCLAIMERS:

Not all indications are approved in all markets; check with your local sales representative for further information.

The Renuvion APR Handpiece is intended for the delivery of radiofrequency energy and/or helium plasma where coagulation of soft tissue is needed. Soft tissue includes subcutaneous tissue. The Renuvion APR Handpiece is intended for the coagulation of subcutaneous soft tissue following liposuction for aesthetic body contouring. The Renuvion APR Handpiece is indicated for use in subcutaneous dermatological and aesthetic procedures to improve the appearance of lax (loose) skin in the neck and submental region. The Renuvion APR Handpiece is intended for the delivery of radiofrequency energy and/or helium plasma for coagulation and ablation of soft tissue during open surgical procedures. The Renuvion APR Handpiece is intended to be used with compatible electrosurgical generators owned by Apyx® Medical.

As with any aesthetic procedure, individual results may vary. As with all energy devices there are inherent risks associated with its use. Risks associated with the use of the Renuvion APR Handpiece include: helium embolism into the surgical site due to inadvertent introduction into the venous or arterial blood supply system, unintended burns due to superficial, thermal injury, perforation or permanent nerve injury, ischemia, fibrosis, infection, pain, discomfort, gas buildup resulting in temporary and transient crepitus or pain, bleeding, hematoma, seroma, subcutaneous induration, pigmentation changes, increased healing time, scarring, asymmetry and/or unacceptable cosmetic result. Please see the instructions for use for more detailed information.

REFERENCES:

1. Buoy Health article, “11 Surprising Statistics About Semaglutide You Need To Know,” details various statistics about Semaglutide’s effectiveness and usage rates. Buoy Health.
2. Clinical DrugStats Database provides detailed drug usage statistics, including prescription and patient numbers for Semaglutide in the United States up to the year 2021.
3. The American Journal of Managed Care (AJMC) discusses the impact of Semaglutide on the health economy, its implications for obesity and diabetes treatment. AJMC Article.
4. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention CDC – Adult Obesity Facts.
5. The number of bariatric surgeries in 2021 was 262,893 as estimated by the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS) [ASMBS].
6. Over 70% of Americans are classified as either overweight or obese with projections indicating that this figure will rise to 80% by 2030 (Renew Bariatrics).
7. The number of Ozempic prescriptions in the fourth quarter of 2022 totaled 9 million, highlighting significant concerns related to weight management (Renew Bariatrics).
8. Regarding interest in weight loss, 45% of adults have shown interest in weight loss medications, with 59% actively attempting weight loss. These figures suggest a large market for weight loss interventions (Renew Bariatrics).