Aesthetics

Omaha, Neb. - As laser resurfacing evolves, the persistent challenge remains how to somehow incorporate the dramatic benefits of ablative, CO2 resurfacing with the user-friendliness and higher safety profile of nonablative measures.

National report - Many in dermatology are anxiously anticipating the arrival of the latest addition to the hyaluronic acid filler market, Juvederm (Allergan Medical), as a new alternative to the long-held gold standard, Restylane (Medicis ?sthetics).

National report - As the general population ages, the demand for allies in the battle against declining physical appearance has spurred the development of new treatment modalities - and creative uses of older standbys.

New Orleans - The problem with today's cosmeceutical advertising is that it oversells the benefits of products in the marketplace, says Patricia K. Farris, M.D., a dermatologist who practices in New Orleans and is a clinical assistant professor in the department of dermatology at Tulane University.

Palm Springs - Removing less fat from the upper and lower eyelids is the modern philosophy to blepharoplasty and, in the long run, will have better aesthetic results for the patient.

Patients commonly follow the advice of cosmetic-counter salespersons, TV advertisements, aestheticians and friends rather than seeking a dermatologist's recommendations.

A world-class city, Washington, D.C., showcases a variety of international and regional cuisines.

San Mateo, Calif. - Newly approved Radiesse - billed by manufacturer BioForm Medical as the "next-generation" dermal filler - offers long-lasting correction of moderate-to-severe facial wrinkles and folds, the company says.

National report - When dealing with topical treatments, dermal fillers and botulinum toxin, an expert advises sticking to products backed by rigorous science and minimizing patients' risks wherever possible.

Most patients who get Botox treatments tend to like them and continue requesting them.

National report - A Contour Threads (Surgical Specialties) lift offers a simple, safe, effective and cheaper alternative in face lifting procedures with minimal downtime, as compared with the traditional facelift, one expert tells Dermatology Times.

The disadvantages (of using long-acting fillers) are that any mistakes made by the physician are cosmetically punishable because of the permanent defect caused to the patient.

National report - Contrary to popular belief, all lip augmentation procedures are not created equal.

Palm Springs, Calif. - Botox (botulinum toxin type A, Allergan) offers patients with moderate-to-severe glabellar lines longer lasting efficacy and greater treatment satisfaction compared with those patients treated with Dysport (botulinum toxin type A, Ipsen Limited), according to one expert.

Q How do the "no nick" razors work?

Ablative laser resurfacing with pulsed carbon dioxide and erbium YAG lasers, when introduced, was considered radical for its day.

Brooklyn, N.Y. - Fundamental concepts on the pathogenesis of acne vulgaris have not changed significantly over the past 25 years.

New York - Cholesterol-lowering statins and fibrates apparently aren't linked to a reduced risk of melanoma, researchers report.

New York - Four people paralyzed after they were injected with unlicensed botulinum in late 2004 may have received doses that were 2,857 times the estimated human lethal dose, according to the Journal of the American Medical Association.

National report - Silicone gel breast implants represent a welcome option for informed patients, most sources say.

Graz, Austria - A recently published study says that marathoners may be subject to an increased risk of getting skin cancer.

Washington - Botox may relieve severe pain from osteoarthritis of the knee, new research suggests.

Taking a kinder, gentler approach to facial cleansing can help to avoid some self-inflicted woes.

You've made a big decision to get liposuction to make your tummy look flatter and to feel your best in your favorite clothes.

Your eyes, lips, even your forehead lines usually say volumes about what you're feeling.