Austin, TX—February 14, 2012 – Westlake Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery, a leading provider of medical dermatology, cosmetic procedures and plastic surgery in Central Texas, announced today it is now offering Ultherapy® – a first-of-its-kind treatment that uses ultrasound imaging and energy to lift and tighten skin and improve its texture in a way never before achievable without surgery. Ultherapy is the first and only device cleared by the FDA for use as a non-invasive face and neck treatment with a specific indication for eyebrow lift. One of the first effects of gravity is that the brows descend, and the eyes start to appear smaller. Ultherapy lifts the brow, which in turn reduces the excess skin on the lids, opens up the eyes and gives a more refreshed, youthful appearance.

 “We are now able to achieve significant lifting by focusing ultrasound energy into the deep foundation below the skin that is addressed in surgery, as well as into the skin itself,” said Dr. Gregory Nikolaidis, president of Westlake Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery. “With Ultherapy, we can lift and tighten the skin without cutting or disrupting the surface of the skin.  In other words, we are improving the skin quality from the inside out.”

 This state-of-the-art technology enables physicians, for the first time, to actually see (via an LED screen) and then treat the deepest support layers of the skin addressed in surgery without disrupting the uppermost layers of skin. Ultherapy creates an immediate contraction of the skin, but the ultrasound energy also triggers the body’s natural response mechanism, which is to rejuvenate tired collagen and supplement it with fresh, new collagen. This will gradually, over the course of two to three months, strengthen and tone the skin and gently shift it into a more youthful position. While the results do not duplicate the results of surgery, Ultherapy’s gradual improvements make it a compelling option for those who are not quite ready for surgery.

 Austin, TX—January 31, 2012 – Westlake Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery, a leading provider of medical dermatology, cosmetic procedures and plastic surgery in Central Texas, announced today it is now offering the miraDry® procedure for the treatment of hyperhidrosis – commonly known as excessive underarm sweating.  Hyperhidrosis is a medical condition in which more underarm sweat is produced than is needed to cool the body.  Millions of Americans suffer from excessive underarm sweating (approximately one in five people), and many suffer silently—ashamed, frustrated and embarrassed because excessive underarm sweat can interfere with many aspects of everyday life. And it’s not only people with hyperhidrosis who can benefit from the miraDry procedure.  Some people suffer from nervous perspiration, and the blazing-hot summers in Central Texas also cause most people to sweat quite a bit, which can ruin clothes, lead to unpleasant odors, and create uncomfortable situations.

The miraDry System delivers energy non-invasively to the area under the arm where the sweat glands reside, which creates localized heat to destroy and eliminate the glands. Since sweat glands do not regenerate, results are lasting.

“Until now, there hasn’t been a permanent medical solution for the silent sufferers of excessive underarm sweat,” said Dr. Gregory Nikolaidis, president of Westlake Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery. “miraDry provides a safe and non-invasive treatment option for people to take back control of their lives without letting sweat interfere with their daily activities.”

Each miraDry procedure takes approximately one hour and the full treatment plan requires two procedures to maximize results. The procedure is safe and the effect can be experienced almost immediately. Since the procedure is non-invasive, there is little to no downtime, so patients can go about their normal routines after treatment. The lasting result of miraDry is a significant departure from previously available alternatives which require toxin injections or surgical incisions.

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About Westlake Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery

Westlake Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery provides the very latest in skin rejuvenation and cosmetic and plastic surgery, as well as state-of-the-art treatment for diseases of the skin. The practice of dermatology continues to be one of the fastest growing medical specialties with ongoing breakthroughs in skin care and repair.  In our continuing commitment to excellence, we offer our patients full-service, comprehensive dermatology and cosmetic surgery care.  Westlake Dermatology patients have access to the most current medical technology and therapies available for lifelong healthy skin at any age. Westlake Dermatology is a leader in cosmetic and surgical procedures ranging from Botox and dermal fillers, to SmartLipo liposuction and breast augmentation.

Austin, TX—December 15, 2010 – Westlake Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery, a leading provider of medical dermatology and cosmetic surgery services in Texas, announced today it will be holding a free skin screening on January 8, 2011, from 9:00 am till 12:00 pm at all five of its greater-Austin locations. Westlake Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery has offices in north Austin, Round Rock, Westlake Hills, Lakeway and Marble Falls, which makes this free screening convenient for virtually all Austin-area and Hill Country residents. This skin screening is open to the public on a walk-in basis and participants will be screened by board-certified dermatologists or physician’s assistants who will advise patients to see their dermatologist should something of concern be identified at the screening.

More than 1 million new cases of skin cancer will be diagnosed in the United States this year. The incidence of the most serious type of skin cancer – malignant melanoma – has doubled in the last ten years and will kill nearly 8,650 people this year. That means one American dies from melanoma almost every hour.

Fortunately, most skin cancers, including melanoma, can be cured if detected early. But, according to a survey by the American Academy of Dermatology, most Americans don’t know the warning signs of melanoma and only about one-third examine their skin for signs of skin cancer.

“We have seen a significant increase in skin cancer cases in recent years, which is why we decided to hold this free skin screening,” said Dr. Lisa Rhodes, Board Certified Dermatologist at Westlake Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery. “The key to successfully treating all types of skin cancer is early detection and we urge everyone to have their skin checked annually by a qualified dermatologist or P.A.”

Austin, TX—November 16, 2010 – Westlake Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery, a leading provider of medical dermatology, cosmetic procedures and plastic surgery, announced today that it has completed construction of its new Westlake facility located at 8825 Bee Caves Road, approximately 2 miles west of its current location. The new location will open on November 22, 2010. This facility also doubles as the corporate headquarters for Westlake Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery’s four satellite locations.

This new 55,000 square foot, state-of-the-art facility was made possible in part by lending from Texasbased Plains Capital Bank and by funds obtained through one of the largest small business 504 loans in the country made available through President Obama’s 2009 Economic Stimulus Package. Westlake Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery brought in some of the top architectural firms in Texas to help take this Spanish Mission style building from concept to reality, including:

• Design Concept – Michael G. Imber Architects (winner of the 2010 Palladio Award for Outstanding Achievement in Traditional Design)
• Architect of Record – David Bessent
• Interior Layout and Design – N-Vizion
• Retail Store Design and Interior Design – Michael Hsu Design
• Construction – Zapalac/Reed Construction Company
• Project Management – American Realty

“We are thrilled at the response we have received about our new facility.” said Dr. Gregory Nikolaidis, president of Westlake Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery. “Our new facility will allow us to provide world class care while expanding our dermatology and aesthetic services.”

Westlake Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery will occupy two-thirds of the building. The facility will include a surgical suite, 30 patient exam rooms, a spa with 9 treatment rooms, private waiting and dressing areas, and a patient education room. Plans are in place to open a 1,800 square foot retail store offering an expansive selection of skin care products and makeup in 2011. Westlake Dermatology is considering options for the unused space, including possibly leasing to other synergistic, professional tenants or possibly a small café.

Initially there will be 60 employees working at the new facility with expected growth within the next year. In spite of the lagging economy, Westlake Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery staffing has continued to grow each year. They attribute this growth to their commitment to excellence that starts at the top and makes its way down to every employee.

Austin, TX—October 1, 2010 – Westlake Dermatology, Central Texas’ leading provider of medical dermatology, cosmetic procedures and plastic surgery, announced today it has added two new doctors to its staff. Dr. Melinda Conroy will be working out of its Marble Falls location, while Dr. Julie Fridlington is practicing in its North Austin and Round Rock offices. The addition of Dr. Conroy to the Marble Falls office will greatly increase access for patients by expanding office hours from its current two days a week to four days a week.

Dr. Melinda Conroy attended medical school at Nova Southeastern University where she was selected as a member of Psi Sigma Alpha and the National Deans List. She graduated in the top five percent of her class, then completed three years of internal medicine at Lehigh Valley Hospital where she also served on the Ethics and Grievance Committees. She completed her residency at Aria Health-Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine in Pennsylvania where she was Chief Resident of Dermatology.

Julie Fridlington, M.D. received her medical degree from the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston where she graduated as a member of the Alpha Omega Alpha medical honor society and the Gold Humanism Honor Society. She subsequently completed both her Internship in Internal Medicine and Dermatology specialty training at the University of Texas Medical Branch. During her final year of residency, Fridlington served as Chief Resident and was awarded the medical student teaching award for excellence in Dermatology instruction.

“We have always worked to provide the best possible dermatological care available anywhere for our patients, and adding Dr. Conroy and Dr. Fridlington allows us to continue to do so,” said Dr. Gregory Nikolaidis, president of Westlake Dermatology and Cosmetic Surgery. “Both doctors bring vast experience and expertise that will benefit their patients and we are very excited to welcome them to the Westlake Dermatology family.”

Austin, TX—April 19, 2010 – Westlake Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery, a leading provider of medical dermatology and cosmetic surgery services in Texas, announced today it will be holding a free skin screening on May 8th from 10:00 am till 1:00 pm at all five of its greater-Austin locations. Westlake Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery has offices in north Austin, Round Rock, Westlake Hills, Lakeway and Marble Falls, which makes this free screening convenient for virtually all Austin-area and Hill Country residents. This skin screening is open to the public on a walk-in basis and participants will be screened by board-certified dermatologists or physician’s assistants who will advise patients to see their dermatologist should something of concern be identified at the screening.

More than 1 million new cases of skin cancer will be diagnosed in the United States this year. The incidence of the most serious type of skin cancer – malignant melanoma – has doubled in the last ten years and will kill nearly 8,650 people this year. That means one American dies from melanoma almost every hour.

Fortunately, most skin cancers, including melanoma, can be cured if detected early. But, according to a survey by the American Academy of Dermatology, most Americans don’t know the warning signs of melanoma and only about one-third examine their skin for signs of skin cancer.

“We have seen a significant increase in skin cancer cases in recent years, which is why we decided to hold this free skin screening,” said Dr. Lisa Rhodes, chief of dermatology at Westlake Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery. “The key to successfully treating all types of skin cancer is early detection and we urge everyone to have their skin checked annually by a qualified dermatologist or P.A.”

Lakeway, TX-February 17, 2010 – Westlake Dermatology and Allergy, announced today, that Dr. Amin Mery is treating Lakeway and surrounding area allergy patients with a holistic approach called immunotherapy, which builds the body’s own defenses to eliminate Cedar Fever and other allergy symptoms, not just mask them with antihistamines and other prescription medicines. Cedar Fever and other allergies affect many Central Texans causing everything from itchy eyes, congestion, sleeplessness, sneezing, headache, sore throat, coughing, wheezing, lack of energy and sinus infections.

“With immunotherapy, we deliver a small, highly concentrated dose of specific allergens, which cause the body to build up natural resistance that in effect eliminates allergies and allergy symptoms,” said Dr. Amin Mery, board certified Allergy and Immunology practitioner at Westlake Allergy. “Once the body has built up sufficient resistance to the offending allergen, patients need only to receive a monthly injection to keep them allergy free.” Roughly 85-90% of allergic patients who obtain immunotherapy will experience significant improvement of their symptoms.

Dr. Mery also recommends that allergy sufferers keep windows and doors closed and use a HEPA or other allergy air filter to help reduce indoor airborne allergens and to reduce outdoor activities during periods of high pollen counts. In addition, a shower or bath following outdoor activity removes pollen from the hair and skin and avoids contamination of bedding.

“Lakeway and surrounding area residents have typically had to travel to North Austin or downtown to have access to board-certified allergists,” said Dr. Mery. “Now Lakeway residents have access to the same level of services found in Austin Dallas, Houston and other major cities.”

Westlake Allergy offers treatment for any allergy or asthma related conditions, including Cedar Fever, Hay Fever, sinusitis, angioedema, anaphylaxis, food allergies, insect allergies, and any other allergic condition. A daily shot clinic is operated for immunotherapy services.

Allergy and asthma services are provided by Dr. Amin Mery, Diplomate of the American Board of Allergy and Immunology. Allergy and asthma appointments are taken at our Lakeway and Westlake locations. We accept most insurance plans. Westlake Allergy is a branch of Westlake Dermatology, providing the very latest in dermatology and plastic surgery treatments. We have five locations in the Austin and Hill Country area, including Westlake, North Austin, Lakeway, Round Rock, and Marble Falls.

Austin, TX—June 17, 2008 – Westlake Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery (www.westlakedermatology.com), Central Texas’ leading provider of skin rejuvenation, laser treatments, Botox and dermal fillers, cosmetic and plastic surgery as well as state-of-the-art dermatology care, announced today it has been selected as the sole provider of plastic/cosmetic surgery and dermatology informational videos for the new LIVESTRONG.com Web community. Demand Media teamed with the Lance Armstrong Foundation and Lance Armstrong to create LIVESTRONG.com, the definitive health, fitness and lifestyle destination.

LIVESTRONG.com will help people take charge of their life by providing them a full 360-view on diet and nutrition, fitness, personal and health-related topics. It features powerful social media and interactive tools, as well as high-end, engaging content and the most up-to-date health and scientific news.

Three doctors at Westlake Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery were selected for the short videos. Dr. Gregory Nikolaidis, president, provided information on laser resurfacing and skin rejuvenation, laser assisted and traditional liposuction, Botox and dermal fillers as well as antiaging information for people in all age groups.

Dr. Cameron Craven, director of plastic surgery, provided information on all other plastic/cosmetic surgery procedures and Dr. Lisa Rhodes, director of dermatology, provided information on skin disease, hair loss, skin cancer and treatments for said conditions. All three doctors have been featured in numerous local and national news stories and Dr. Nikolaidis regularly travels internationally to lecture doctors on the latest in cosmetic procedures.

“We are so honored to be selected to be working with Lance Armstrong and LIVESTRONG.com and will continue to provide informational videos as new techniques and technologies emerge in the world of dermatology and cosmetic/plastic surgery,” said Dr. Cameron Craven, director of plastic surgery, Westlake Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery. “To be in the company of doctors from MD Anderson and Johns Hopkins (who are also providing content) is really exciting.” One of the most important content components is original and unique videos. With approximately 6,000 video segments, LIVESTRONG.com contains the largest library of original video content in the health marketplace. These videos highlight the information users are searching for in terms of health, diet, fitness and nutritional information. And these videos are truly unique to the Web. This unique Web community includes:

• Lance Armstrong as a daily source of inspiration and motivation
• Trusted expert content
• Easy, interactive tools that help you take action
• A strong, engaged user and expert community to provide support and inspiration

Austin, TX – October 29, 2007 – Westlake Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery has added plastic surgeon Dr. Cameron Craven to its staff. Westlake Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery president, Gregory Nikolaidis, M.D., and his staff have been featured in local and national broadcast and print editorials and the practice has led Texas in cutting edge dermatological and cosmetic procedures since it first opened in 2002. It has also led the state in procedures ranging from Smartlipo liposuction, to Thermage, to dermal fillers, to eyelid and face surgery, to MOHS cancer surgery and more. It is also the leading Botox provider in the central region.

Dr. Craven completed a 6 year integrated residency in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston. Baylor is recognized as one of the top 15 medical schools in the United States. Affiliated hospitals where he received his training include The Methodist Hospital, St. Luke’s Episcopal Hospital, Hermann Hospital, Ben Taub General Hospital, Texas Orthopedic Hospital, Shriner’s Burn Hospital, the nations largest Veteran’s Administration Hospital, MD Anderson Cancer Center (the nation’s leading cancer center), and Texas Children’s Hospital (the nation’s largest children’s hospital). During his training, he gained extensive experience in all aspects of plastic surgery including cosmetic surgery, hand and microvascular surgery, reconstructive surgery, burns, trauma, and surgery for congenital abnormalities.

Dr. Craven grew up in the Austin area and attended the University of Texas at Austin. He graduated Summa Cum Laude with a Bachelor’s Degree in Biology in only 3 years and received the College of Natural Sciences Distinguished Graduate Award. He was also inducted into the prestigious Phi Beta Kappa honor society while at UT. Dr. Craven went on to complete his medical training at the University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, one of the oldest medical schools in the country, where he graduated Magna Cum Laude. He finished in the top 4 of his class and was inducted into the Alpha Omega Alpha medical honor society.

“We have always strived to provide the best possible care available for our patients,” said Dr. Gregory Nikolaidis, president of Westlake Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery. “Cameron brings vast experience and expertise that will benefit not only cosmetic surgery patients, but also skin cancer patients who have had substantial amounts of skin and tissue removed and would otherwise be relegated to very noticeable scars. We are very excited to have Dr. Craven as part of our family.”

Dr. Craven has received numerous awards and honors for academic achievement and has given presentations at local and national meetings regarding his research projects and scientific publications. He is a member of the American Medical Association, the Travis County Medical Society, Texas Medical Association and the Michael E. DeBakey International Surgical Society and he is an Associate Fellow of the American College of Surgeons. Dr. Craven is a candidate for Membership in the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Dr. Craven specializes in the full spectrum of cosmetic surgery including breast augmentation, liposuction and body contouring, facial rejuvenation, laser surgery, eyelid surgery, and rhinoplasty, as well as reconstructive surgery for skin cancers.

Dr. Craven and the staff at Westlake Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery pride themselves on providing safe, state of the art care for their patients in a comfortable and caring environment.