Aesthetics

The results showed a modest improvement in facial rhytids in the majority of patients, with the maximum improvement in the nasolabial and mesiolabial area seen at three to six months.

Perhaps there is no field in medicine like cosmetic dermatology, where scientific advances appear to run light-years ahead of ethical analyses f those changes.

Among the certainties awaiting new dermatologists joining or starting a practice — especially one specializing in cosmetic dermatology — is this: They'll be doing a lot of procedures using Botox (Allergan) and fillers.

Pressure is building in Washington to move forward with the federal government's proposed pay-for-performance Medicare reimbursement program.

This time during her physical examination, the patient was certain that she was touched inappropriately.

As might be expected with any new cosmetic procedure, suture suspension, popularly known as "thread lift," has engendered significant media attention. Thread lift has been promoted on "Oprah," "Today" and "Good Morning America" as a "lunch-time facelift." More recently, articles in The New York Times and Allure magazine have questioned the predictability and longevity of results, and the potential for complications.

Chronic stress increases the rate of emergence, number and size of squamous cell carcinomas, in addition to decreasing the number of T-cells that are critical for fighting this type of cancer.

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia -- A Malaysian study has found that the vitamin derived from antioxidant-rich palm oil is more potent than other forms of vitamin E when used to accelerate healing of dermal wounds.

National report — A proposed $3.2 billion merger of Botox-maker Allergan and breast-implant maker Inamed would ultimately benefit dermatologists, an Allergan official says.

National report — Every eight seconds, a member of the baby boom generation turns 50 — and an increasing number of these baby boomers are looking to turn back the clock.

Rather than being a one-time treatment, she adds that Fraxel's anufacturer — and most doctors who use the technology — recommend a series of three to five treatments.

National report — As baby boomers get older, they are fighting a valiant battle against aging. But while they want to look younger, they are often too busy to give up weeks for recuperation, they don't want major side effects, or to spend $10,000, and they really don't want to wait until their faces are sagging so much that only a major facelift will help.

National report — Minimally invasive procedures provide a wealth of lift options for patients, and the trend will continue, Sorin Eremia, M.D., tells Dermatology Times.

Permanent fillers ... remain a tough sell as doctors increasingly consider the ever-changing structure of the face as it ages.

National report — The current status of photodynamic therapy (PDT) in the United States is really status quo — that's the assessment of dermatologist Michael Gold, M.D., founder of the Gold Skin Care Center, The Laser and Rejuvenation Center, Tennessee Clinical Research Center and Advanced Aesthetics Medi Spa of Nashville, Tenn.

With increased experience, clinicians are finding other uses for Botox (Allergan). Apart from more popular applications such as treatment for excessive sweating or hyperhidrosis or to eliminate frown lines between eyebrows, Botox is being injected in the lower parts of the face to improve wrinkles and to optimize wound healing.

Vancouver, British Columbia — The vertical growth phase of melanoma presents as a tumor nodule or tumor-infiltrating lesion.

Relative to the radiofrequency and light techniques, the barbed suture procedures afford more precise control of the locus of lifting and produce a more immediate and noticeable benefit.

Oral vitamin D supplementation and the use of sunscreens is a better way to maintain bone health than frequent unprotected sun exposure.

National report — Misdiagnoses and misconceptions can hinder treatment when pediatric dermatology emergencies occur, an expert says.

National report — A proposed $3.2 billion merger of Botox-maker Allergan and breast-implant maker Inamed would ultimately benefit dermatologists, an Allergan official says.

Dermatologists are working to demonstrate physician competency through more rigorous recertification processes.

Santa Clara, Calif.--Inamed Health, a Santa Clara-based manufacturer of breast implants and cosmetic treatments, may be shunning one corporate suitor in favor of another.

Counterfeit prescription drugs pose a "potentially serious health threat" in the United States — one that can result in serious or deadly consequences for patients because of unscrupulous acts of profiteers who take advantage of a lack of uniform regulation and enforcement.

Hire, train and properly supervise a physician assistant.