Foreword

Article Outline

• Copyright

As medical care continues to extend the years of our lives, our society longs to maintain the lifestyle and appearance of youth. We enjoy better health for longer periods of time as the various fields of medicine continue to evolve. For centuries, mankind has had its mythology, desires, and theraputic procedures to help achieve this goal.

Most every medical specialty has some therapeutic regimen to perpetuate and fulfill this longing. The orthopedic surgeon offers better mobility with joint replacements allowing for continued activity enjoyed in more youthful days. Pharmaceuticals are readily available to help maintain an active sexual life. Therapies to delay the steady decline in our cognitive capacity appear to be on the horizon.

One of the most rapidly growing fields of interest is the medical specialties assisting in the appearance of youth. In years past, this has been associated with more complex surgical procedures limited to the practice of the Plastic Surgeon. Now that the procedures offered have become less invasive, more readily available, and requiring less equipment, multiple varied medical professionals have begun to administer these therapies. Botulinum Toxin, various skin fillers, dermabrasion, and laser therapy are some of the most common interventions offered.

However, with the continued escalation in both the use and number of medical professionals administering these procedures, the dangers of misuse and inherent risks associated with these therapies require review. The Primary Care Physician will need to be more informed of the various complications. Patient guidance for appropriate and safe use of these newer options will undoubtedly rest on the Primary Care Physician.