Cosmetic Skin Procedures | HealthInfi

Overview

Today women can reduce, prevent or even erase the signs of aging without resorting to surgery. Nonsurgical aesthetic treatments, also known as cosmetic skin procedures, can reduce the appearance of wrinkles, facial lines, unwanted hair, broken blood vessels, large pores and acne scars.

Women—and men—are embracing these procedures, which range from injections and microdermabrasion to laser and hair removal treatments. Plastic surgeons perform an estimated 8.5 million minimally invasive aesthetic treatments annually, while dermatologists, otolaryngologists, ophthalmologists and other medical specialists perform millions more.

The increased acceptance of aesthetic cosmetic procedures—both surgical and nonsurgical—is partially due to the decreased stigma attached to them. According to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, nonsurgical procedures make up nearly two-thirds of aesthetic treatments performed by plastic surgeons today.

Despite the growing popularity of these procedures, it is important for consumers to do their homework. Even something as simple as a chemical peel carries potential risks, particularly when performed by someone who is not properly trained in the procedure.

The most important things to remember about nonsurgical aesthetic treatments are:

• You will likely have to bear the entire cost; insurance rarely covers cosmetic treatments.
• Few treatments are permanent. Most will need to be repeated within a few months or a few years.
• Just because a health care provider offers a treatment doesn’t mean that person is qualified to perform the treatment. Ask for references, talk to patients and confirm certifications.
• Plastic surgeons and dermatologists are the most qualified professionals available to provide most nonsurgical aesthetic treatments.

Diagnosis

Unlike a health problem or medical condition, nonsurgical aesthetic treatments are entirely optional. You don’t have to fill in those wrinkles, erase those broken blood vessels or minimize that redness. You do it because you want to.

It is important, however, that you have realistic expectations about the treatment you choose. Ask your aesthetic specialty physician to show you before and after photos of treatments he or she has performed. Also ask how long the effects will last, what the estimated cost will be and how many treatments you may require if undergoing a treatment that requires several sessions, such as laser treatments.

Treatment

The first step is determining the right treatment for your aesthetic concern. You have numerous options. The most commonly performed treatments follow.

OnabotulinumtoxinA (Botox Cosmetic)

OnabotulinumtoxinA, often referred to by the brand name, Botox, is a purified protein derived from the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. It reduces muscle activity by blocking the nerve impulses that cause the squinting or frowning muscles to contract. OnabotulinumtoxinA is approved for the temporary treatment of frown lines and brow furrows.

Only licensed health care professionals can purchase onabotulinumtoxinA. Plastic surgeons or dermatologists routinely administer onabotulinumtoxinA , although any physician with special training in facial anatomy may perform the injections. Some states also allow nonphysicians such as registered nurses or physician assistants to administer the drug if they are directly supervised by a physician. Regardless of who administers your injection, always ask to see the vial and look for the manufacturer’s safety hologram to ensure you are treated with authentic product.

It only takes a few minutes to be treated with onabotulinumtoxinA, and the effects last up to four months. Botox Cosmetic costs an average of $350 to $500 per area of treatment, and costs vary across the country based on a number of factors. Some aesthetic specialty physicians charge by the unit of product. This allows them to charge more or less depending upon the specific patient’s need. Be sure to ask your physician the estimated total cost of your treatment.Read More