Book Review: July 2003
|
Ablative and non ablative facial skin rejuvenation Martin Dunitz |
This book consists of 9 chapters with many clinical photographs. The initial chapter is a detailed discussion of the Biology of Collagen
and the second on Cutaneous wound healing
. The following chapters discuss laser resurfacing including carbon dioxide, erbium:yag, combined erbium:yag lasers, electrosurgical skin resurfacing, non ablative dermal remodelling and complications. The final chapter discusses marketing facial skin rejuvenation.
Each clinical chapter has a format of initially highlighting key points, then a section on the background of the technique followed by a review of clinical studies. The final section is the author's personal approach and use of the technique described. Each chapter has many clinical photographs and a comprehensive reference list.
I do not practise cosmetic medicine but having read this book I gained an understanding of the use, benefits, complications and pitfalls of facial skin rejuvenation. The text is easily readable and informative. The text is well referenced but with inevitable delays in publication perhaps may not reflect the current views of the laser community in 2003 in a fluid and changing field of medicine.
I am not persuaded by the evidence of the photographs. Obviously photographs have limitations but I would have found it helpful if each series of photographs relating to one patient was clearly identified. If these photographs were all on one page it would be easy to compare before and after. The photographs to show the complication of ectropion have the eyes blacked out and the ectropion cannot be seen. In another clinical case I believe that one photograph is the mirror image of its comparison.
The book would be of interest to dermatologists, plastic surgeons and trainees interested in gaining an authoritative introduction to this subject. I expect this book may contain less useful information for experienced practising laser/facial rejuvenation practitioners. Photographs not withstanding, I found it a very useful précis of the subject.
Paul Jarrett, 17 June 2003