When it comes to trying to improve your appearance, it can be tempting to try to save money and time by doing it yourself by buying and applying products sold at a store or online. Well, according to a recent article by the American Board of Plastic Surgeons, you should be warned of health risks of do-it-yourself treatments. Here’s a bit from the article:

CBS Pittsburgh reports that plastic surgeons and cosmetic dermatologists are seeing an increase in individuals who have had to endure pain and long-term skin damage due to some at-home treatments.

 

“We’ve had patients come in the day before their daughter’s wedding and done an at-home chemical peel and come in with second degree burns,” a Pennsylvania-based cosmetic dermatologist told the news provider.

 

Experts say that although prescription-strength acids used for chemical peels can be found online and obtained without a prescription, consumers should avoid them.

 

“If you stumble upon a website selling prescription-strength retinoid, that should be a red flag and [you should] seek professional help first … because there are certain reactions that can happen and certain products you don’t want to mix together with those,” the dermatologist told CBS Pittsburgh.

 

Caution also needs to be used when trying a do-it-yourself laser hair removal, as misuse can cause burning, redness and scarring. In-office treatments are also likely to be much more successful.

 

» Read the full article: “Doctors warn against do-it-yourself treatments”

Save yourself a trip to the emergency room. Don’t do something you’re going to regret for a long time. Get the medical opinion from a trusted and board-certified physician before you attempt any do-it-yourself cosmetic treatment.

If you live in the Colorado Springs area, you’re highly encouraged to reach out to a board-certified plastic surgeon, such as Dr. Greg Leibscher, who can discuss your treatment options and explain important safety considerations with you.

» More about: Dr. Greb Liebscher, Colorado Springs Plastic Surgeon

In this video, Colorado Springs plastic surgeon, Greg Liebscher, MD, FACS, explains facelift procedures and the associated risks and likely outcomes:

About Dr. Greg Liebscher, Colorado Springs Plastic Surgeon

Dr. Greg Liebscher is a Mayo Clinic-trained and board-certified Colorado Springs plastic surgeon. Plastic and reconstructive procedures include breast augmentation, breast reduction, breast lift, tummy tuck, liposuction, eyelid lift, forehead lift.

» More about: Facelift

» More about: Colorado Springs Plastic Surgeon – Greg Liebscher, MD, FACS

The success and safety of your facial plastic surgery procedure (eyelid, forehead, nose, face, reconstruction) depends very much on your complete candidness during your consultation.

You’ll be asked a number of questions about your health, desires and lifestyle.

» More about: Dr. Greg Liebscher, ASPS Member Plastic Surgeon
» More about procedures for: Facial

Be prapared to discuss:

• why you want the surgery, your expectations and desired outcomes
• medical conditions, drug allergies and previous medical treatments
• use of current medications, vitamins, herbal supplements, alcohol, tobacco and drugs
• previous surgeries

Your surgeon may also:

• evaluate your general health status and any pre-existing health conditions or risk factors
• take photographs for your medical record
• discuss your options and recommend a course of treatment
• discuss likely outcomes of facial plastic surgery and any risks or potential complications

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»More about: Dr. Greg Liebscher, ASPS Member Plastic Surgeon
»More about procedures for: Facial

[Source: American Society of Plastic Surgeons]