Document Detail


Cosmetic mesotherapy: between scientific evidence, science fiction, and lucrative business.
MedLine Citation:
PMID:  18663517     Owner:  NLM     Status:  MEDLINE    
Abstract/OtherAbstract:
Mesotherapy, originally conceived in Europe, is a minimally invasive technique that consists of the intra- or subcutaneous injection of variable mixtures of natural plant extracts, homeopathic agents, pharmaceuticals, vitamins, and other bioactive substances in microscopic quantities through dermal multipunctures. Its application in cosmetic medicine and surgery is gaining in popularity and acceptance and is rapidly growing in profile at an alarming rate. Despite their attraction as purported rejuvenating and ''fat-dissolving'' injections, the safety and efficacy of these novel cosmetic treatments remain ambiguous, making mesotherapy vulnerable to criticism by the generally more skeptical medical community. The technique is shrouded in mystery and the controversy surrounding it pertains to its efficacy and potential adverse effects that are subject of much concern. As with any new technology, it is important to assess the benefits, safety, experience, and standardization of mesotherapy. More studies are necessary before it can be advocated as a safe and effective treatment for body contouring and facial rejuvenation. Although the claims made about mesotherapy may be hard to believe at face value, we must be cautious about rejecting new ideas. Just as absence of proof is not proof of absence, lack of scientific validation is not proof that it does not work.
Authors:
Bishara S Atiyeh; Amir E Ibrahim; Saad A Dibo
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Publication Detail:
Type:  Journal Article; Review     Date:  2008-07-29
Journal Detail:
Title:  Aesthetic plastic surgery     Volume:  32     ISSN:  1432-5241     ISO Abbreviation:  Aesthetic Plast Surg     Publication Date:  2008 Nov 
Date Detail:
Created Date:  2008-11-04     Completed Date:  2009-01-15     Revised Date:  -    
Medline Journal Info:
Nlm Unique ID:  7701756     Medline TA:  Aesthetic Plast Surg     Country:  United States    
Other Details:
Languages:  eng     Pagination:  842-9     Citation Subset:  IM    
Affiliation:
Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon. aata@terra.net.lb
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MeSH Terms
Descriptor/Qualifier:
Aged
Aging / psychology
Ambulatory Care
Cosmetic Techniques*
Esthetics
Fat Emulsions, Intravenous / administration & dosage*
Female
Humans
Injections, Subcutaneous
Lebanon
Lipectomy / methods
Male
Middle Aged
Phosphatidylcholines / administration & dosage*
Rejuvenation
Risk Assessment
Skin Aging / drug effects*
Chemical
Reg. No./Substance:
0/Fat Emulsions, Intravenous; 0/Phosphatidylcholines

From MEDLINE®/PubMed®, a database of the U.S. National Library of Medicine


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