Kruisbestuiving tussen cosmetische en medische zorg

Dermatology is the speciality that focusses on the diagnosis and treatment of skin and mucosal diseases. Cosmetic dermatology has its focus on the outer aspect of the skin, hair, subcutaneous fat and surrounding structures. In-dept knowledge of the anatomy, physiology and pathophysiology of the skin, makes a dermatologist especially suited to provide high quality cosmetic care. Several cosmetic treatments like tumescent assisted liposuction, were invented by dermatologists. Insights acquired in cosmetic dermatology, can also help to improve medical healthcare. There is an overlap between cosmetic and medical dermatologic care and a clear demarcation between the two is hard to make and often leads to discussion. From the patient’s point of view, this demarcation is not clear, except for the cosmetic indications for Botox and fillers. Furthermore, most of the techniques are used for both fields in dermatology. Another recurring question is whether a dermatologist should engage in cosmetic care and if and how cosmetic dermatology should be incorporated in dermatology training programs. In this article we discuss the crossover between cosmetic and medical care and during the presentation this we will be illustrated with case presentations. Both medical care as well as cosmetic dermatology could profit from this crossover. It should be embraced not contested.