Dermatologic Clinics

Lower eyelid skin is unique and different from that of other areas. In addition to being an area of high exposure to the sun and elements, there are anatomic considerations and specific histologic characteristics that can cause the skin in this area to be more sensitive. These attributes can readily cause under-eye wrinkling and pigmentation. This review aims to present an updated overview of the current knowledge regarding the clinical characteristics, diagnosis, and management of wrinkles and pigmentation in this area...

Skin specialists and practitioners are commonly requested to recommend on cosmetic products to improve skin appearance and address certain "non-medical" concerns. During residency and further education, dermatologists rarely expand their knowledge regarding cosmetic ingredients, except if they are a cause of medical condition or disease, such as contact dermatitis. This review provides guidelines to the INCI list structure, together with basic principles of cosmetic products formulation.

In recent years, injectables have become increasingly popular in cosmetic procedures. The choice between using a needle or a cannula depends on several factors, including the site of injection, the filler type, the patient's preferences, and the practitioner's skills. Although needles are easy to use, cost-effective, and best for treating superficial rhytids, they may cause tissue injury. Cannulas are safer, particularly when injecting deep to the bone, and can provide more even distribution of filler material when filling large zones...

Botulinum toxin A (BT) is the most required treatment in face rejuvenation. However, applications of BT on the lower third are off-label and specific tips for the treatment of this area should be taken into account to achieve best results. In the current study, literature concerning BT treatment of lower face has been revised and summarized according to anatomy and indications, tips, and complications. BT treatment of the lower face has been reported to be effective and safe when performed with adequate knowledge of anatomy and techniques...

Neuromodulator treatment of the upper face has been extensively studied and serves as an excellent tool to enhance facial appearance, non-verbal communication, and social functioning. Optimal outcomes are best achieved when health care providers take an individualized approach, based on knowledge of structural and functional anatomy, thorough facial assessment, and customized injection techniques and patterns.

In the nonablative laser field, a new technology that emits a 675-nm wavelength red light is emerging. A literature review was performed to examine its efficacy and safety in the treatment of skin diseases. Various databases were searched (PubMed, Google Scholar, and ClinicalTrials.gov) up to March 2023. Skin aging disorders, melasma, and acne scars were the main diseases discussed in the literature. Although the therapeutic outcomes were variable, all of the studies reported good clinical outcomes. The new 675-nm laser system, targeting collagen, is promising in the treatment of aging-related skin conditions, melasma, and acne scars...

The introduction of selective photothermolysis by Drs. John Parrish and Rox Anderson in 1983 revolutionized how lasers are used in dermatology. The theory allowed for lasers to be used in a variety of applications both safe and effectively, and the number of applications has only expanded with time. From the first application on vascular birthmarks to more recent applications for acne, this review covers the evolution of lasers from the beginning to where we are headed.

Superficial chemical peels are one of the most popular skin resurfacing procedures in a dermatologists' clinic today due to quick application process, fast recovery, good patient acceptance, and excellent cosmetic results. The role of various peeling agents like glycolic acid, salicylic acid, trichloroacetic acid, Jessner's solution, retinoic acid, and lactic acid in the management of melasma has been established as that of an additional or maintenance therapy. This article details the current evidence and recommendations for the use of chemical peels in the treatment of melasma, a chronic and recurrent hyperpigmentary disorder...

Chemical peeling is a procedure used for cosmetic improvement of the skin or treatment of some medical skin disorders, by the application of chemical exfoliant. In spite of a long history of clinical use of chemical peels, understanding of the science behind the procedure is still evolving. In this article, we review new concepts, understandings, and publications in the field of chemical peels.

Cellulite is a common cosmetic concern among postpubertal women. Despite its high prevalence, there have been only a few high-quality studies assessing its exact prevalence, risk factors, and pathophysiologic mechanisms. It has been difficult to achieve long-lasting results with the available treatments, including topical agents, energy-based devices, subcision, and injectables. In this review, the authors summarize the proposed etiologic factors, grading scales, and treatment options. Further well-designed studies are essential to improve our knowledge of the condition and lead to improved treatment strategies...

Facial overfilled syndrome is an underdiagnosed aesthetic complication due to multiple incorrect placements of fillers. Facial distortion due to the overfilled syndrome can be exaggerated by facial expressions and movements and worsens with tissue ptosis due to aging. Commonly "produced" by practitioners depending solely on fillers as a single modality for treatment, the overfilled syndrome can be seen among those who had volume overload in the midface, forehead, chin, and nose. Incorrectly placed dermal fillers, poor selection of filler products, overzealous attempts by the injectors, and overly enthusiastic clients who "chase the lines" are the common causes of this phenomenon...

Despite different ethnic origins among Asians, midface enhancement is the most frequent noninvasive procedure for hyaluronic acid injection either as a stand-alone treatment or as part of the pan-facial beautification strategy. Because Asians often have an aesthetically undesirable wide, flat, and short face, improving the projection of midface and midline facial structures is an indispensable aesthetic procedure in creating a smaller facial appearance with better three-dimensionality. Achieving an oval facial shape together with increased facial height is also required in most circumstances for a natural and balanced result...

Hyaluronic acid and calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA) have been used for in the field of soft tissue augmentation. Both materials have been used in combination to enhance tissue remodeling and provide a more rejuvenated look. Sequential injections of Belotero Volume (CPM-HA V) and CaHA had a relatively greater remodeling effect on one's skin compared with the simultaneous injections of CPM-HA V and CaHA. Simultaneous injection of the studied products is possible from the point of view of safety, but different levels of administration will be more optimal, which will provide a more pronounced remodeling effect on the skin...

Cosmetic procedures involve the maintenance, restoration, or enhancement of one's physical appearance through surgical or medical techniques. Restorative or reconstructive procedures, on the other hand, are essential procedures that restore normal function or appearance to abnormal structures caused by trauma or infection. Cosmetic procedures are generally elective and may either be surgical or nonsurgical. Nonsurgical or minimally invasive cosmetic procedures include laser hair or tattoo removal, chemical peeling, micro-dermabrasion, and soft tissue augmentation with injectables...

No abstract text is available yet for this article.

Practicing medicine is not easy. In this article the author talks about why he is still practicing medicine. He shares some general thoughts regarding the "continue to work" versus the "retire early" dilemma.

This is the story of author's life from high school through retirement. The author took early retirement after 25 years of practice in a multispecialty clinic then founded a free clinic in Mexico that the author ran for 15 years.

Cosmetic procedures can be a nice addition to many different types of dermatology practices. It is part of our specialty, and the author would encourage anyone interested to pursue adding a few procedures to their current practice. Why perform cosmetic procedures? It can be esthetically pleasing for many dermatologists, there is a growing demand for esthetic procedures, and it is a source of additional increased revenue not tied to Medicare.

Successful businesswomen in dermatology know what type of practice they want and create a plan to make it happen. They align their business with their life and surround themselves with people who support their goals. They accept support but know how to delegate. They do the hard work required to be successful, gaining knowledge and strength from the experience. When they make mistakes, they learn from them. They try to make the most of each patient's experience, while acknowledging that relationships with family, friends, and colleagues, as well as personal growth, are of utmost significance outside of their practices...

The practice of medicine is governed by legislation and regulation at the state and national level. It is crucial, therefore, that dermatologists become and remain involved in the process to advocate for their patients, their practices, and the specialty itself. Maintaining a relationship with one's state and federal senators and representatives is critical for physicians to have a voice in the shaping of health care policy. Local, state, and national medical and specialty societies are a tremendous resource for physicians to remain abreast of policies affecting the practice of medicine...