Skin Rejuvenation Techniques: General Considerations

Abstract

Most patients want cosmetic and rejuvenative procedures with minimal to no downtime and visible results. The services most cosmetic surgeons offer run the spectrum from topical treatments (light chemical peels, microdermabrasion), to nonablative lasers and light sources, to radiofrequency skin tightening, to injectable fillers and Botox, to more traditional ablative skin resurfacing with chemical peels, lasers, or dermabrasion. Every office may not be able to offer every device or service. The most important keys are to listen to the patient, identify goals, and decide if those goals can be achieved with the techniques available. Obtain informed consent even on the most mundane procedures, but most importantly, ensure that the patient has realistic expectations.