The Market
What is the definition of Aesthetic Medicine?
“A branch of medicine focused on satisfying the aesthetic desires and goals of patients. This specialty is primarily focused on the pathophysiology of aging skin and adheres to scientific based procedures. Physicians practicing Aesthetic Medicine are trained in non-invasive treatment modalities and typically utilize combination treatments to meet the needs of the patient.” Source International Association for Physicians in Aesthetic Medicine.
The field of CosMedics (the field combining cosmetology and Medicine) another term referring to the field of aesthetics and anti aging treatments.
The Anti-Aging Skincare Market and The Medical Spa
There is a revolution of anti-aging products and services sweeping North America. Anti-aging services include hair removal and skin rejuvenation treatments with laser, microdermabrasion, advanced facial treatments with cosmecueticals, body contouring, wellness programs with the use of nutraceucticals and lifestyle counseling.
The market for cosmetic surgery, facial aesthetics and medical laser devices is expected to almost double in size, exceeding $3 billion by 2017. The market for aesthetic Botulinum toxin-A. Drugs such as Botox® will grow to an estimated $543 million by 2017, while the aesthetic laser and light therapy markets for skin resurfacing, hair removal and laser Lipolysis are the fastest growing segments. From U.S. Market for Cosmetic Surgery, Facial Aesthetics and Medical Laser Devices 2011 Market Research Report
There are many definitions of a medical spa; it can be a wellness centre, a doctor’s office with spa services, or a spa with medical exams and anti-aging treatments. The medical spa of today focuses on total wellness with maintenance and prevention. Doctors are discovering that spa services are beneficial to their patients for relaxation, to relieve anxiety, and also medically beneficial for pre and post-surgery.
Physicians and Aestheticians can learn from each other while working as a team to mutually benefit their clients.