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NON-SURGICAL DOES NOT MEAN NON-MEDICAL
New York, NY (November 13, 2002) -- The increasing popularity
of non-surgical cosmetic procedures has led to a growing complacency
about where procedures are being performed and by whom, according
to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS).
It is the ASAPS position that ancillary procedures, such as skin
resurfacing or Botox® injections, while not surgical,
are medical procedures and should only be done in appropriate
facilities under the supervision of a qualified physician who
has been trained in the particular procedure.
Medical History: Before any medical procedure is undertaken,
a medical history should be provided in order to determine appropriateness.
This is especially important to avoid allergic reactions and to
identify underlying medical conditions that might pose risks.
Alternative Treatments: One purpose of pre-treatment consultation
is the thorough evaluation of each patient and the exploration
of alternatives, including no treatment.
Informed Consent: A discussion of the benefits and risks of any
medical procedure is required for full informed consent. Non-surgical
procedures do not always result in less "downtime."
A plastic surgeon can explain the pros and cons of various treatments.
Appropriate Setting: Medical procedures require sanitary surroundings
and sterile instruments, as well as authentic equipment and medications.
Parties and group events may compromise results.
Emergency Plans: Non-surgical procedures may occasionally result
in unforeseen consequences. Plans should be in place to handle
these.
Follow-up Care: Follow-up care is an important part of the doctor-patient
relationship and is necessary to assure optimum procedure results.
It is ASAPS' position that all medical procedures - surgical
and non-surgical - should be done under the care of properly credentialed
and trained medical professionals.
The following is a representative list of ancillary (non-surgical)
medical procedures:
Chemical skin peels, including:
Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA)
Trichloroacetic Acid (TCA)
Phenol
Injectable treatments, including:
Botox®
Collagen
Fat
Sclerotherapy (treatment of leg veins)
Laser hair removal
Laser treatment of leg veins
Skin resurfacing, including:
Ablative Lasers (Carbon Dioxide, Erbium)
Nonablative Lasers (N-Lite, Cool Touch and others)
Intense Pulsed Light
Dermabrasion
Microdermabrasion
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The American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS) is
the leading organization of plastic surgeons certified by the
American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) who specialize in cosmetic
surgery of the face and the entire body.
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