It seems like a new cosmetic product, technique or device emerges almost daily — typically with great marketing fanfare. Some will become excellent additions to our treatment options. Botox®, injectable fillers and fat grafts are great examples of breakthroughs that have become proven, accepted standards. However, the majority of new treatments have proven to be ineffective or even unsafe. So, how can you, as a potential patient, know what’s worthwhile and what’s not?
What to Watch Out For
In today’s world, the media buzz tends to get more attention than good, solid facts. But when it comes to medical interventions, you want to make sure you’re looking at the science behind them. During your quest for information, watch out for some common traps.
The “Latest and Greatest” Attraction
The first thing you should be aware of is that it’s human nature to be attracted to novelty. Cognitive scientists have long recognized that people have deeply ingrained biases toward things that are new. We tend to assume that new equals better — not because there’s evidence or proof to support that, but only because it’s new. That’s why the “latest and greatest” sales pitch works. People are wired to get drawn in to this way of thinking. It’s important to understand that the majority of new treatments and products aren’t better (and can often be worse) than established, proven ones. So, when you hear about the latest “advancements,” remember to approach them with a healthy amount of skepticism.
Prestige and Profit
The second thing to consider is the profit/prestige motive. Of course, a company that makes a new cosmetic treatment wants to hype up its product and claim the most amazing results it can. Every company’s primary objective is to make the largest possible profit. And if a doctor develops a new procedure … well, that’s their “baby,” and they often can’t help but believe it’s the best. However, as a savvy patient, it’s important not to be overly swayed by glossy ads or the enthusiasm of an innovator.
How to Get Legitimate Answers
So, how do you know which new things are good, which are not, and which we just don’t have enough information about to draw a conclusion? First, approach it with a bit of skepticism — make them prove that what they’re offering is good and always trust professionals like Dr. Antonio Rivera or Dr. Roberto Pizzamiglio,
