Medicine First, Aesthetics Second": A Guide to Safe Energy-Based Treatments and Vitiligo Care

As the end of the year approaches, many individuals are scheduling their annual skin rejuvenation treatments, with high demand for procedures such as Thermage, Ultherapy, Pico Laser, Botox, and dermal fillers. However, amid the surge in aesthetic treatments, our Center Director, Dr. Chau Yee Ng, emphasizes a fundamental principle: "Medicine First, Aesthetics Second."

Expert Training: Ensuring Safety and Efficacy

Recently, Dr. Ng was invited to serve as a lecturer at the Thermage FLX training session held at Renai Chang Gung Hospital, alongside moderator Vice Superintendent Hu. During the session, Dr. Ng shared her expertise with young dermatologists and plastic surgeons, focusing on the mechanism of action, clinical assessment, and, most importantly, safety protocols. She highlighted that successful energy-based treatments depend on the physician's mastery of anatomy and energy delivery, not just the device itself.

Demystifying Thermage FLX

Thermage FLX is a gold-standard, non-invasive skin tightening treatment. It uses monopolar radiofrequency to penetrate deep into the dermis and subcutaneous tissue, stimulating collagen contraction, remodeling, and new growth. While effective for treating laxity and contouring, Dr. Ng addressed three common myths:

• Myth 1: "The higher the energy, the better the result."

  • Fact: Excessive energy can cause pain, volume loss (fat atrophy), or burns. A skilled physician adjusts energy levels based on individual skin thickness and response.

• Myth 2: "Results are immediate and final."

  • Fact: While some tightening is visible immediately, the primary benefit comes from collagen regeneration, which peaks 2–3 months post-treatment.

• Myth 3: "Thermage is suitable for everyone."

  • Fact: Patients with very little facial fat or severe laxity require careful assessment and customized treatment vectors to avoid undesirable outcomes.

Crucial Advice for Patients with Vitiligo and Dermatitis

As a leading expert in vitiligo, Dr. Ng frequently addresses the question: "Can I undergo laser or radiofrequency treatments if I have vitiligo?"

The core rule is clear: Energy-based treatments should only be performed during the 'stable phase' of the disease.

• For Vitiligo Patients: If the condition is active (spots are spreading), skin trauma from lasers or heat can trigger the Koebner phenomenon, causing new vitiligo patches to form.

• For Atopic Dermatitis/Rosacea Patients: The skin barrier must be restored, and inflammation subsided before considering aesthetic procedures.

Conclusion

Aesthetic enhancements should never compromise skin health. By choosing a qualified specialist and ensuring your skin condition is stable, you can achieve safe, natural, and effective results this holiday season.

Media Coverage:

• Liberty Times Health (Chinese)

• Best Doctor News (Chinese)