Welcome to the Patient Education Library of the Children's Plastic Surgery Institute of Florida
We invite you to explore our comprehensive list of resources and educational materials designed to help educate you about the various conditions treated by this practice. Simply click on a topic below to learn more.
If you have any questions or concerns regarding your condition or treatment, please feel free to contact the Children's Plastic Surgery Institute of Florida in South Florida at (954) 880-1133. To request an appointment, use our secure online appointment request form.
This information is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It should not be used in place of an individual consultation, examination, or the medical advice of your doctor. This information should not be relied upon to determine a diagnosis or course of treatment.
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Acne
Acne, commonly referred to as pimples, blemishes, and zits, is a common skin condition that most people experience at some point in life, most often as teenagers. Acne results when tiny openings in the skin become plugged. Acne is treated ... Read More
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Actinic Keratosis
Actinic keratosis (AK) is a pre-cancerous skin condition that develops after exposure to ultraviolet rays from the sun. The lesions look like scaly or crusty warts that typically appear on the face or back of the hands. Actinic keratosis lesions ... Read More
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Aging Skin
Wrinkles, crows feet, age spots...call them what you like, but if you are bothered by their presence, they are considered unwanted signs of aging. Everyone’s skin is genetically programmed to change as part of the natural aging process. Sun exposure ... Read More
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Apex 800 Hair Removal Laser
Unwanted hair in unwanted places can be bothersome and embarrassing for both men and women. The Apex 800 Hair Removal Laser is a revolutionary hair removal system that is fast, safe, and produces immediate results. Unlike other hair removal lasers, ... Read More
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Arm Lift - Brachioplasty
An arm lift (brachioplasty) is a cosmetic surgery procedure to remove fat and/or sagging skin under the upper arm to create a firmer toned appearance. The upper arms can become droopy or flabby looking because of increasing age, weight changes, ... Read More
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Athletes Foot
Athletes are not the only people who can get athlete’s foot. A fungus that thrives in warm environments, such as poolside surfaces and locker rooms, causes the skin infection to develop between the toes or on the soles of the ... Read More
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Bacteria Skin Infections
Bacteria are microorganisms that naturally live in our environment. There are many types of bacteria, and while some are actually beneficial to your body, others are not. Bacteria can enter through an opening in the skin, such as a scratch ... Read More
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BOTOX® Cosmetics
Botox Cosmetic is used by both men and women for vanishing frown lines without surgery or downtime. Botox is an injected prescription medication that temporarily improves the appearance of moderate to severe frown lines between the eyebrows (glabellar lines). Approximately ... Read More
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Breast Augmentation
Breast augmentation is a cosmetic surgery procedure that uses implants to enlarge or change the shape of the breasts. It is a popular option for women that feel their breasts are too small and want to enhance their figure. Women ... Read More
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Breast Lift - Mastopexy
A breast lift (mastopexy) is a cosmetic surgery procedure that is used to create more youthful-shaped breasts. It is a popular option for women that feel their breasts have lost their shape, are happy with their breast size in a ... Read More
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Breast Reduction for Men with Gynecomastia
Breast reduction for men (reduction mammoplasty) is a cosmetic and reconstructive surgical procedure that is used to reduce the size of the breasts. Men may experience enlarged breasts (gynecomastia) for several reasons, including hormone abnormalities, hereditary conditions, disease, use of ... Read More
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Breast Reduction for Women - Mammaplasty
A breast reduction (mammaplasty) is a cosmetic or reconstructive surgical procedure that is used to remove excess breast tissue, and reduce the size of the breasts. Women with large breasts may experience back and shoulder discomfort or pain, activity limitations, ... Read More
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Brow Lift
A brow lift, also referred to as a forehead lift, is a cosmetic surgery procedure used to correct the effects of aging skin on the upper portion of the face. A brow lift will smooth or soften forehead wrinkles and ... Read More
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Bruises - Contusions
Everyone has experienced a bruise at one time or another. A bruise, medically termed a contusion, results when the blood vessels beneath the skin are injured and bleed. Cold packs can help reduce bruising following an injury. Significant bruises should ... Read More
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Burns
Minor burns are common skin injuries that affect the outer most layers of the skin. Burns are caused by heat, such as fire, but can occur from several other sources, such as hot liquids, the sun, or certain chemicals. Minor ... Read More
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Buttock Implants
Buttock augmentation is a cosmetic surgery procedure for males and females that uses implants to enhance the size and shape of the buttocks. Buttock implants can improve the appearance of small buttocks or underdeveloped muscles that are difficult to attain ... Read More
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Captique™ - Facial Rejuvenation
Captique™ is a skin filler treatment used to rapidly add volume beneath the surface of the skin and improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Captique treatments are quick and safe. You can receive Captique during your lunch hour. ... Read More
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Chalazia
A chalazion is an inflammation within the gland of the eyelid. It forms over several weeks and appears as a reddened lump or bump on the eyelid. A chalazion can cause eyelid tenderness and painful swelling. In some cases, chalazia ... Read More
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Cheek Implants
Cheek augmentation is a cosmetic surgery procedure that uses implants to change the size or shape of the cheeks. Cheek implants may be used to create prominent high cheekbones or chiseled features for both men and women. Cheek implants can ... Read More
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Chin Implants
Chin augmentation is a cosmetic surgery procedure that uses implants to change the size or shape of the chin. Chin implants can improve the appearance of weak or receded chins. Chin implants can add projection of your chin to improve ... Read More
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Collagen Injections
Collagen injections are nonsurgical cosmetic procedures used to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Collagen injections are most frequently used to treat frown lines, crow’s feet, laugh lines, and smile lines. It is also used to add fullness or ... Read More
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Contact Dermatitis
For some people, objects as common as rubber soled shoes, jewelry, or cleaning products can cause contact dermatitis, a type of skin reaction. Contact dermatitis appears as an itchy red rash on the skin. It develops when the skin touches a ... Read More
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Cosmetic Laser Treatment for Spots, Freckles, & Lesions
Cosmetic laser surgery treatments are non-surgical methods of removing or improving the appearance of freckles, liver spots, and pigmented lesions. A laser wand device is used to deliver small precise amounts of light energy. The light is delivered in brief ... Read More
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Cosmetic Laser Treatments
Cosmetic laser treatments are non-surgical methods that improve the appearance of skin. A medical laser is a device that delivers a small but precise amount of light energy. The light is delivered in a series of brief pulses where only targeted ... Read More
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Cryotherapy
Cryotherapy is a painless, in-office procedure. It is a freezing method used to remove benign skin lesions. Well-defined lesions and tumors are ideal for freezing, as the doctor can easily identify and treat the appropriate area. Cryotherapy is also ... Read More
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Cynosure Apogee Elite - Laser Hair, Vein, Lesion Removal
Cynosure Apogee Elite is a comprehensive hair removal and spider vein treatment system. It is also an effective method for removing noncancerous colored lesions of the skin. The revolutionary laser has an adjustable wavelength, allowing you to receive customized laser ... Read More
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Cysts
Cysts are harmless growths that develop beneath the skin. They appear as small moveable bumps. Cysts usually grow slowly and do not cause pain. Occasionally, cysts can become infected. Your doctor can safely and easily remove cysts that bother you. ... Read More
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Deviated Septum
The shape of your nose can give your face “character,” but it may also give you headaches, breathing problems, sinus infections, and cause snoring. The septum in most people’s nose is naturally a bit off center. The septum is the ... Read More
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DiamondTome™ Skin Resurfacing
Aging and cumulative sun exposure can cause the skin to lose its youthful appearance. Skin on the face and body can develop fine lines, wrinkles, texture changes, age spots, and blotchy color differences. Fortunately, DiamondTome™ Skin Resurfacing is a non-invasive ... Read More
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Diaper Rash
Diaper rash is type of dermatitis that occurs on your baby’s bottom and genitals. It is typically bright red and may include bumps such as blisters or pimples. Diaper rash may be irritating or mildly painful for your baby, but ... Read More
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Ear Surgery (Cosmetic) - Otoplasty
No set of ears are exactly alike, but some people find protruding ears to be unattractive or bothersome. They can make children and adults self-conscious and the target of teasing. Fortunately, cosmetic ear surgery called otoplasty can reposition the ears ... Read More
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Eczema
Eczema is a chronic hypersensitive skin reaction, similar to an allergy. Atopic dermatitis is a common form of eczema. The hallmark symptoms of eczema are intense itching and a red rash. Environmental irritants, stress, water, and temperature changes may worsen ... Read More
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Eyelid Lift - Blepharoplasty
An eyelid lift, also called blepharoplasty, is a cosmetic surgery procedure that improves the appearance of the upper and/or lower eyelids. The procedure removes fat and excess skin from the upper and lower eyelids. An eyelid lift may also be ... Read More
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Face Lift
A face lift is a cosmetic surgery procedure used to improve the appearance of aging facial skin. It is one of the most frequently performed cosmetic treatments. Face lifts are most popular among people in their forties to sixties; however, ... Read More
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Facial Peels
Facial peels, also called Chemical Peels, are nonsurgical cosmetic treatments used to improve the appearance of facial skin (skin resurfacing). Aging, sun exposure, acne, mild scarring, wrinkles, and discoloration can cause facial skin to appear old, rough, leathery, and unattractive. ... Read More
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Full Body Lift - Body Contouring After Major Weight Loss
Significant weight loss following weight reduction surgery or dieting and exercise can result in excess skin and tissue that cannot “shrink” to be in proportion with the new body size. Skin that was overstretched from weight gain may not have ... Read More
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Fungus Skin Infection - Tinea
Fungus is a microorganism that naturally grows in almost all of our surroundings. Fungus thrives in warm moist areas, such as damp floors, bathrooms, or clothing. Skin infections can develop from contact with fungus. There are several types of fungal ... Read More
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Hair Loss
Hair loss, also referred to as alopecia or balding, is a very common condition. Balding is very common in men, although both men and women tend to lose hair thickness as they age. In most cases, hair loss is inherited ... Read More
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Hives
Hives (Urticaria) are red or white itchy bumps that appear on the skin. Hives result from allergic reactions, environmental factors, and certain medical conditions. In many cases, hives resolve without medical treatment. Over-the-counter or prescription medications are the standard treatments ... Read More
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Ingrown Toenails
Ingrown toenails are a common condition in adults. They occur when the corner of a toenail grows into the skin or when the skin grows over the toenail. Ingrown toenails cause pain and swelling. If left untreated, they can lead ... Read More
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Insect Sting Allergy
Itching and swelling from insect stings annoy millions of Americans each year. For some people, stings from certain insects can cause allergic reactions. While most stinging insects do not cause an allergic reaction, honeybees, yellow jackets, hornets, wasps, and fire ... Read More
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Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) Laser Vein Removal
With increasing age, the majority of women and large numbers of men experience unsightly varicose and spider veins in their legs. These vascular lesions may appear for many reasons including increasing age, heredity, hormone changes, and obesity. In the past, ... Read More
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Iriderm Laser - Skin Rejuvenation
Age spots, red capillaries, freckles, rosacea, moles, and sun damage all are common skin conditions that can make the skin look older. Finally, there is a safe and effective way to minimize the appearance of these bothersome skin conditions—the Iriderm ... Read More
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Juvederm® - Facial Rejuvenation
Wrinkles and loss of skin volume are a natural part of aging. Factors such as heredity, sun exposure, and lifestyle can accelerate the process. Fortunately, Juvederm® is a nonsurgical treatment to plump fine to deep wrinkles, creating a fuller more ... Read More
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Lacerations (Cuts & Scratches)
Lacerations are cuts or scratches that cause a skin wound. Lacerations that are not deep can heal with home treatments. Deep severe lacerations require medical treatment, such as stitches to close the wound and promote healing. Steps should be taken to ... Read More
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Laser Assisted Liposuction
Laser Assisted Liposuction is a revolutionary new minimally invasive liposuction method. Like traditional liposuction, Laser Assisted Liposuction is used to improve the appearance of the body by removing troublesome areas of fat that persist despite diet and exercise. However, the Laser Assisted Liposuction system uses an ... Read More
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Lipomas
Lipomas are fat capsules located underneath the skin. They are usually harmless and common. Lipomas look like round lumps. They may be small or grow to over an inch. They most frequently occur on the arms and trunk. Lipomas do ... Read More
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Liposuction
Liposuction (lipoplasty) is a cosmetic surgery procedure that allows fat removal beneath the skin’s surface using small remote incisions to create improved proportions resulting in a better looking figure. For some people, excess fat may remain in certain areas of ... Read More
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MediDerm® Laser - Facial Rejuvenation
MediDerm® laser is a skin rejuvenation system that reduces wrinkles and skin imperfections. It gives skin a smoother and younger look. The laser delivers a controlled light wavelength that is appropriate for you. It creates a customized peel treatment efficiently. ... Read More
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Mesotherapy
Mesotherapy is an alternative medicine technique intended to improve the appearance of cellulite or localized collections of fat. Aging and weight gain can cause cellulite/fat deposits in the thighs, buttocks, arms, and abdomen. Mesotherapy involves injecting physician-created formulas into affected ... Read More
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Microdermabrasion
Microdermabrasion is a nonsurgical cosmetic procedure used to improve the appearance of facial skin. Very superficial skin conditions, such as fine wrinkles, dull skin, age spots, and acne, may be minimized with microdermabrasion. The procedure uses the gentle abrasive action ... Read More
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Mini Face Lift
A mini face lift is a cosmetic surgery procedure used to reverse the signs of aging skin. A mini face lift is used to make the lower one third of the face look younger, rested, and refreshed. It can firm ... Read More
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Mini Tummy Tuck
Unwanted fat below the belly button can result from aging, weight gain, or childbirth. This area can be particularly difficult to lose with dieting and exercise. A mini tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) is a cosmetic surgery procedure that removes excess fat ... Read More
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Mohs Micrographic Surgery for Skin Cancer
Mohs micrographic surgery is a specialized surgical treatment for the removal of skin cancer. Mohs surgery is highly effective. It offers the highest potential for recovery for all skin cancer treatments. Mohs surgery has a five-year cure rate of 99% ... Read More
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Moles
Moles are dark spots on the skin. You can be born with moles. They also appear over time. Heredity and spending time in the sun may influence the amount of moles that you have. Some people have moles removed because ... Read More
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Mouth Sores
Mouth sores are a common condition. There are several different types of mouth sores. The most common types include canker sores, cold sores, leukoplakia, and candidiasis. Some develop inside of the mouth and others develop on the lips and skin ... Read More
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Nose Reshaping - Rhinoplasty
Rhinoplasty, nose reshaping surgery, is the most common of all plastic surgery procedures. Rhinoplasty is used to change the shape of the nose, correct structural or functional problems. Nose reshaping can improve the balance of your facial features and enhance ... Read More
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Palomar® Pulsed Light Hair Removal
The Palomar® Pulsed Light Hair Removal system is a revolutionary new way of removing small and large areas of unwanted hair, especially on the legs of women and the back of men. Unlike painful electrolysis or waxing, the Palomar Pulsed ... Read More
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Pediatrics - Chalazia
A chalazion is an inflammation within the gland of the eyelid. It forms over several weeks and appears as a reddened lump or bump on the eyelid. A chalazion can cause eyelid tenderness and painful swelling. In some cases, chalazia ... Read More
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Pediatrics - Moles
Moles are dark spots on the skin. Babies can be born with moles. Moles also appear over time. Heredity and spending time in the sun may influence the amount of moles that your child has. Some people have moles removed ... Read More
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Pediatrics - Seborrhea, Cradle Cap
Seborrhea, also called Seborrheic Dermatitis, is a common skin condition. When it occurs on the scalp it is called dandruff. Seborrhea on a baby’s scalp is called cradle cap. Seborrhea describes red scaly itchy skin. The affected areas produce white ... Read More
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Pediatrics - Skin Cancer
Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States. There are many types of skin cancers. They are classified as melanomas or non-melanomas. Melanomas begin in the melanocytes, the cells in skin that produce color. Melanoma ... Read More
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Pediatrics - Warts
Warts are small growths that appear on the skin. They vary in type, size, appearance, and location. Warts usually are not painful. A virus causes warts. Warts are very contagious and can be spread from person to person. Some warts ... Read More
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Perlane® - Facial Rejuvenation
Perlane® is a revolutionary new injectable skin filler that is especially formulated to treat moderate to severe facial wrinkles and skin folds. Perlane contains larger gel particles than other skin fillers (ie. Restylane®), allowing it to give more volume and ... Read More
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Photodynamic Therapy - Facial Rejuvenation
Photodynamic therapy is a revolutionary process to improve the appearance of acne and poorly textured skin. It is used to treat a variety of skin conditions including wrinkles, large pores, actinic keratosis, sun damage, pigments, and rough looking skin. The ... Read More
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Photofacial Rejuvenation
Photofacial rejuvenation is a state-of-the-art skin treatment that is used to erase damage on the skin’s surface creating a younger and healthier looking skin. It is effective in treating a variety of skin imperfections including fine wrinkles, freckles, age spots, noncancerous lesions, ... Read More
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Poison Ivy
Poison ivy can grow as a plant, bush, or vine. Sap from the plant causes the skin reaction. Although itchy and annoying, most poison ivy rashes are not serious. However, the symptoms are bothersome enough that you should remember the ... Read More
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Psoriasis
Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition that can come and go over time. Psoriasis causes red irritated flaky skin. It is not contagious. Although the exact cause and cure for psoriasis is unknown, there are many products and prescriptions that ... Read More
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Radiesse® - Facial Rejuvenation
Radiesse® is a skin filler treatment used to rapidly correct facial lines and wrinkles, particularly nasolabial folds, lines that run from the corners of the nose to the corners of the mouth. Radiesse® works below the skin’s surface to create ... Read More
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Rashes
Rashes are a common skin condition that everyone experiences at one time or another. There are numerous causes of rashes, ranging from allergic reactions, infections, and medical conditions to insect stings. Some types of rashes can be treated at home ... Read More
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Restylane® - Facial Rejuvenation
Restylane® is a skin filler that is used to rejuvenate and enhance the appearance of aging facial skin. Restylane restores natural volume to your skin—correcting fine lines, creating fuller lips, and enhancing the shape of your cheeks or chin or ... Read More
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Rosacea
Rosacea (acne rosacea) is a chronic skin condition. It predominantly causes redness and flushing on the face. Although there is no cure for rosacea, antibiotics and laser therapy can help manage the condition and improve the appearance of your skin. ... Read More
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Sclerotherapy for Varicose Veins & Spider Veins
Sclerotherapy is a treatment for small varicose or spider veins. Sclerotherapy involves the tiny injections of a medication into affected veins. The solution used causes the veins to shrink and eventually dissolve. Sclerotherapy may improve the appearance of veins and ... Read More
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Seborrhea
Seborrhea, also called Seborrheic Dermatitis, is a common skin condition. When it occurs on the scalp it is called dandruff. Seborrhea on a baby’s scalp is called cradle cap. Seborrhea describes a red scaly itchy skin. The affected areas produce ... Read More
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Shingles
Shingles are a painful rash that develops in nearly 1 in 3 Americans. The risk of developing shingles increases with age. More than half of all shingles cases occur in people over the age of 60, although children can develop ... Read More
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SilkPeel™ Dermalinfusion™ - Facial Rejuvenation
SilkPeel™ Dermalinfusion™ is the only skin rejuvenation procedure that provides both non-invasive exfoliation and the delivery of skin-specific topical solutions. SilkPeel Dermalinfusion leaves your skin fresher feeling and better looking. Unlike other skin treatments, it does not use crystals or ... Read More
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Skin Allergies - Contact Dermatitis
For some people, objects as common as rubber soled shoes, jewelry, or cleaning products can cause an allergic skin reaction (contact dermatitis). Symptoms include varying degrees of an itchy inflamed rash. If treatment is necessary, there are a variety of ... Read More
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Skin Cancer
Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States. There are many types of skin cancers. They are classified as melanomas or non-melanomas. Melanomas begin in the melanocytes, the cells in skin that produce color. Melanoma ... Read More
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Skin Cancer - Melanoma
Melanoma is the deadliest form of skin cancer. It occurs when the melanocytes in the skin grow abnormally and out of control. Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun and a history of childhood sunburns contribute to the development ... Read More
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Skin Cancer - Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Squamous cell carcinoma is the second most common type of skin cancer. It occurs when the squamous cells in the skin grow abnormally and out of control. Exposure from ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun is the most frequent cause ... Read More
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Skin Cancer- Basal Cell Carcinoma
Basal cell carcinoma is the most common type of skin cancer. It occurs when the basal cells in the skin grow abnormally and out of control. Exposure from ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun is the most frequent cause of ... Read More
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Skin Tags
Skin tags, medically termed acrochordons, are common harmless skin growths. They appear as rounded or tube-like structures that are attached to the skin by a thin stalk. Skin tags may be skin colored or darker. Skin tags commonly develop in skin ... Read More
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SmartLipo™
SmartLipo™ is a revolutionary new minimally invasive liposuction method. Like traditional liposuction, SmartLipo is used to improve the appearance of the body by removing troublesome areas of fat that persist despite diet and exercise. However, the SmartLipo system uses an ... Read More
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Thigh and Buttock Lift - Thighplasty
A thigh and buttock lift (thighplasty) is used to remove excess tissue and fat following substantial weight loss. After weight reduction surgery or diet and exercise, skin in the thigh and buttock area may have lost elasticity and may not ... Read More
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Tummy Tuck - Abdominoplasty
A tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) is a cosmetic surgery procedure that is used to create a firmer flatter abdomen. It is common for excess fat deposits and loose sagging skin to develop in the abdomen as a result of aging, weight ... Read More
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Vaser® Lipo
Vaser® Lipo is a revolutionary new body contouring method for creating a sleeker and firmer silhouette. Many people have areas of unwanted fat deposits despite healthy eating and regular exercise. Vaser Lipo is perfect for removing stubborn fat deposits from ... Read More
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Warts
Warts are small growths that appear on the skin. They vary in type, size, appearance, and location. Warts usually are not painful. A virus causes warts. Warts are very contagious and can be spread from person to person. Some warts ... Read More
Copyright © - iHealthSpot Interactive - www.iHealthSpot.com
This information is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It should not be used in place of an individual consultation or examination or replace the advice of your health care professional and should not be relied upon to determine diagnosis or course of treatment.
The iHealthSpot patient education library was written collaboratively by the iHealthSpot editorial team which includes Senior Medical Authors Dr. Mary Car-Blanchard, OTD/OTR/L and Valerie K. Clark, and the following editorial advisors: Steve Meadows, MD, Ernie F. Soto, DDS, Ronald J. Glatzer, MD, Jonathan Rosenberg, MD, Christopher M. Nolte, MD, David Applebaum, MD, Jonathan M. Tarrash, MD, and Paula Soto, RN/BSN. This content complies with the HONcode standard for trustworthy health information. The library commenced development on September 1, 2005 with the latest update/addition on February 16, 2022. For information on iHealthSpot’s other services including medical website design, visit www.iHealthSpot.com.
