Epidemiology of Cosmetic Procedures: An Update for Dermatologists

The document discussed the rapid growth of cosmetic dermatology in the U.S., with $10.7 billion spent on 9.3 million procedures in 2010, predominantly by women. It highlighted popular nonsurgical procedures like Botulinum toxin injections and laser hair removal, and noted an increase in male participation. Motivations included societal pressures and workplace biases, with an emphasis on recognizing body dysmorphic disorder. Safety concerns were addressed, noting low complication rates for procedures under local anesthesia and the importance of safety protocols. The document also covered the efficacy and safety of various treatments, such as radiofrequency devices, ultrasound, and fractional laser technology, and emphasized the need for larger studies. It discussed complications like vascular compromise and biofilm formation with soft tissue fillers, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation with laser resurfacing. The importance of proper technique, patient selection, and ethical marketing was stressed, along with the need for rigorous testing of new products and procedures.