Dec
2014
Vol. 33. No. 4
The evolution of laser surgery for acne and other scarring processes
The treatment of acne scars is an important part of a laser
specialist’s practice. For the last 20 years, the technology
available for this application has progressed from nonablative
to ablative and eventually to fractional lasers that
are effective for a range of scar types. Although patients
with mild-to-severe acne scarring have long been good
laser candidates, we are beginning to understand the use
of lasers for severe traumatic scars which can be disfiguring
and functionally limiting in nature.
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Dec
2014
Vol. 33. No. 4
Update on botulinum neurotoxin use in aesthetic dermatology
Botulinum toxins are among the most widely studied and
versatile drugs in the medicinal market. Since their extraction
from Clostridium botulinum, they have been harnessed
and incorporated into different formulations with
varied properties and actions. These products have been
used to treat countless disorders such as musculoskeletal
disorders, headaches, and eye disorders, among many
others. In the realm of aesthetic cutaneous medicine, the
evolution and creativity in the use of botulinum toxins has
been swift and ever changing. Knowledge of the science
and innovation behind this toxin enables the user
to provide the patient with a variety of treatment options
founded in evidence-based medicine. This review will highlight
the properties and actions of the newer, more recent
neurotoxin preparations, as well as some of the latest and
novel therapeutic applications of botulinum toxins.
Semin Cutan Med Surg 33:152-156 © 2014 Frontline Medical
Communications
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Dec
2014
Vol. 33. No. 4
Updates in noninvasive and minimally invasive skin tightening
The demand for noninvasive and minimally invasive
skin-tightening procedures is rising within the aesthetic
world. Although these treatments will not replace surgery,
a growing patient population is seeking results through
low-risk procedures with associated minimal downtime.
The technology within this realm is changing due to an
increased ability to safely deliver energy to deeper tissue
planes. Within the last year alone, research has led to
the introduction of a subdermal radiofrequency device,
advancements in minimally invasive lasers, and the use
of microfocused ultrasound targeting the facial tissue.
Through research studies, protocols are being optimized
and clinical results are becoming more reliable.
Semin Cutan Med Surg 33:182-187 © 2014 Frontline Medical
Communications
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