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The Challenges and Ethical Imperatives of Aesthetic Medicine in South East Asia

The field of Aesthetic Medicine has grown significantly across the globe , with South East Asia becoming a dynamic hub for aesthetic medicine . However the unique anatomy of the South East Asian face , along with the influence of cultural forces and regional preferences , has led to the development of aesthetic practices in South East Asia differ in various aspects from those in Europe . Understanding these distinctions is crucial for delivering effective treatments and upholding the highest ethical standards in practice .

Hyperpigmentation and uneven skin tone are among the most common concerns for South East Asia patients . This has driven a high demand for treatments like picosecond laser , skin boosters , chemical peels , all designed to achieve a more even and brighter complexion . Skin brightening treatments are one of the highest demanded treatments , especially in countries where fair skin is associated with the gold standard of beauty in the society .

Unlike Europe , where the weather is more temperate , the high humidity and UV exposure in South East Asia bring specific skincare challenges , especially when most of the South East Asian skin generally falls within the Fitzpatrick type III to V . In general , South East Asian have thicker skin with larger , dispersed melanosomes that is more prone to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation ( PIH ), melasma , lentigines , freckles and other dyschromias .

Most of the energy based devices like picosecond lasers or radiofrequency microneedling devices are developed in Europe and the protocols often calibrated for lighter skin types ( Fitzpatrick I-II ). Patients have to be aware of the potential for PIH , this is rather imperative and to ensure appropriate energy settings are used and pre and post procedure measures are taken .

One of the most striking differences between South East Asians and the Westerners , lies in their facial anatomy . The facial anatomy of South East Asian differs from other ethnic groups , particularly in terms of bone structure , fat distribution , and muscle strength . South East Asians tend to have flatter midfaces , broader foreheads , and wider nasal bridges .

While Western beauty often emphasize features like high cheekbones , sharp jawlines , and fuller lips , South East Asians beauty standards tend to focus on softer , more harmonious features . The ideal face is typically heart-shaped with glowing skin as the ultimate indicator of beauty . The desire for a sharper nose bridge , fuller cheeks , and a more defined jawline without undergoing surgery has led to the rise of non-invasive procedures like dermal fillers and energy based skin tightening devices . These treatments offer patients the ability to enhance their features with minimal downtime , making them highly appealing in a fast-paced , appearance-conscious society . However , these treatments especially dermal filler injections often result in a need for more medial and central face augmentation , which has a higher risk of vascular compromise and makes the treatments more challenging . Practitioners should be well prepared to manage adverse events that may arise .

While surgical facelifts remain a popular choice for older patients , younger generations are increasingly opting for non-invasive treatments like Ultherapy and monopolar radiofrquency ( Thermage ) treatments . These procedures offer skin tightening and lifting without the need for surgery , allowing patients to maintain a youthful appearance with minimal recovery time . Given the popularity of these treatments , practitioners must be skilled in creating natural-looking results that align with the patients ’ facial anatomy .

Aesthetic medicine in South East Asia exists at the intersection of cultural beauty ideals and medical ethics . With strong society pressures influencing patients ’ desires , particularly in favour of lighter skin or Westernized features , practitioners face the extra challenges of aligning treatments with ethical standards . Ensuring that patients understand the potential risks and realistic outcomes of procedures is crucial , practitioner must be extra mindful . It is not uncommon for patients to request extreme procedures . In these cases , practitioners must be committed to enhancing natural beauty , rather than endorsing extreme changes or reinforcing potentially harmful beauty ideals .

In a competitive industry where patients are often eager to undergo multiple procedures to achieve their desired look , there is an ethical responsibility to avoid over-treatment . Practitioners must prioritize the patients ’ long term health over financial gain . Practitioners should recommend only treatments that are necessary and appropriate , without going beyond boundaries of what is safe or reasonable . It is important to educate patients about the value of subtle , natural enhancements and the dangers of over- correcting or trying to comfort to unattainable ideals .

8 ISSUE 4 | 2024 aesthetics . globalhealthasiapacific . com