Dermatologists: Unrivaled pioneers

New study reveals innovators of cosmetic medical procedures

News provided by

American Society for Dermatologic Surgery

Mar 22, 2016, 03:30 ET

ROLLING MEADOWS, Ill., March 22, 2016 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- A first-of-its-kind scientific study reveals dermatologists are the premier innovators in 14 of 18 categories of non-invasive and minimally invasive cosmetic medical procedures.

The study – Who are the pioneers? A critical analysis of innovation and expertise in cutaneous non-invasive and minimally invasive cosmetic and surgical procedures – appears in the March issue of Dermatologic Surgery, the official journal of the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery.

A first-of-its-kind scientific study reveals dermatologists are the premier innovators in 14 of 18 categories of non-invasive and minimally invasive cosmetic medical procedures.

"This objective study provides powerful new evidence demonstrating the unmatched contributions dermatologists have made in pioneering and mastering non-invasive and minimally invasive cosmetic procedures," said ASDS President Naomi Lawrence, M.D. "The data reinforce why the public trusts dermatologists above all others for cosmetic medical guidance."

As the number of cosmetic medical procedures increases each year, this unbiased analysis of the medical literature will help consumers decide which specialist is their best choice for these procedures, said ASDS member and study lead author Omar A. Ibrahimi, M.D., Ph.D., who undertook the assignment as an ASDS Board-directed research project.

Ibrahimi said that aggressive marketing has been done by other specialties in an attempt to position themselves as leaders, and he believes this new research can counteract such misconceptions.

"The numerous options available to the lay person seeking non-invasive or minimally invasive cosmetic treatments can create significant confusion as to which physician specialist might be the optimal provider of a certain procedure," said Ibrahimi.

The study's data show that dermatologists have performed the overwhelming majority of innovation and pioneering research for non-invasive and minimally invasive cosmetic medical and surgical procedures.

Dermatology ranked highest for:

Calcium hydroxylapatite fillers for rhytides
Collagen fillers for rhytides
High-intensity focused ultrasound
Hyaluronic acid fillers for rhytides
Laser rejuvenation
Laser resurfacing
Laser tattoo removal
Microfocused ultrasound
Poly-l lactic acid fillers for rhytides
Tumescent liposuction

Ibrahimi said detailing the leading role dermatology has played in innovating most of the procedures also demonstrates dermatologists' ability to provide superior patient care.

With "an endless buffet" of medical providers looking to perform cosmetic medical procedures, he said it is important the public understands the distinct qualifications dermatologists possess.

"Making sure you see someone who is highly trained and who is an expert on the procedure that is being performed is the best thing not only to optimize outcomes but also to make sure you have a safe treatment," Ibrahimi said.

The full study is available online at http://journals.lww.com/dermatologicsurgery/Fulltext/2016/03000/Who_are_the_Pioneers__A_Critical_Analysis_of.8.aspx

CONTACT: Jolene Kremer, 847-956-9133, [email protected]

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SOURCE American Society for Dermatologic Surgery