Pediatric cosmetic dermatology

Abstract

Dermatologic Cosmetic Surgery is a rapidly expanding field. This expansion is not limited just to the adult population, but it is becoming more appropriate for the pediatric population. The dermatologic cosmetic procedures performed on infants and children, however, vary from those that are performed on adults. The reason behind this difference is the physiologic, psychological, and medico-legal issues that involve the young. Dermatologists recently have been performing more cosmetic-type surgical procedures, especially in an ambulatory setting. Many of these procedures happen to occur on infants and children. Differences in Procedures Between Pediatric and Adult Patients The patient’s age is critical in determining the timing and expected outcomes of a particular surgical procedure. In the infant and small child, cosmetic procedures usually are performed to correct or modify physical attributes that would otherwise severely effect their social or personal development. In the youngest age groups, infants and toddlers have not yet developed an awareness of body image and parent anxiety is the impetus for most cosmetic procedures in this age group. Body image generally develops between 5–10 years of age. At this age, a physical disfigurement may create fear and stress in a child, which may cause parents to seek corrective surgical procedures. 1 Great care must be taken to minimize the psychological trauma these cosmetic surgical procedures may cause a child.