Services and Programs
The Center for Human Appearance is a cooperative
effort among six medical and surgical specialties
that have an interest in appearance – dermatology,
ophthalmology/oculoplastic surgery, oral and
maxillofacial surgery, plastic surgery and psychology.
Dermatology is a medical specialty concerned
with the diagnosis and treatment of diseases
and conditions of the skin, including hair and
nails. Dermatologists may see patients who have
benign or malignant disorders such as skin cancers,
melanomas, moles, tumors and allergic and non-allergic
disorders. They also manage cosmetic skin care
and maintenance.
Ophthalmology has to do with the eyes
and the surrounding structures – eyelids,
orbit and tear duct system. Vision impairment,
blindness, tumors and diseases of the eye are
some of the problems ophthalmologists treat. Additionally, oculoplastic
surgery is a sub-specialty area of ophthalmology.
When an eye problem requires surgery, either
reconstructive or cosmetic, patients see an oculoplastic
surgeon.
Oral and maxillofacial surgery is the
surgical arm of dentistry. These surgeons treat
patients with trauma to the teeth and jaw, tumors
of the mouth and jaw, facial injuries and deformities,
oral cancers and TMJ. They perform reconstructive
and cosmetic procedures of the mid and lower
face.
Plastic surgery concerns the molding
or shaping of the face and body. Patients who
have a disease or injury that alters normal function
or appearance will see a plastic surgeon. These
changes may result from trauma, disease or a
congenital disorder. Plastic surgeons also perform
cosmetic procedures for the face and body.
Psychology seeks to study and understand
the part appearance plays in how we view ourselves
and how others view us. Increases in cosmetic surgery
because of concerns about aging, sun damage or
dissatisfaction with an aspect of one's appearance
are a matter of public interest and scientific
study. Trauma, disease and congenital problems
such may alter one's appearance causing concern
or distress. Psychologists work with these patients
and their families to adapt to such conditions.
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