Face Lift

Physician Skincare: Frequently Asked Questions

Physician skincare encompasses treatments and medications that only a doctor can administer or prescribe. The category includes dermabrasion, microdermabrasion, chemical peels and laser skin resurfacing as well as certain topical medications and oral medications, such as Retin-A, hydroquinone and Microskin, that are only available with a prescription or through a doctor's office or clinic. To help you navigate through all your options, we have assembled answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about physician skincare:

  1. What is physician skincare?
  2. What does a typical physician skincare consultation entail?
  3. How is physician skincare performed or administered?
  4. Does insurance cover the cost of physician skin care?
  5. Are the "MD" or doctor-sponsored brands available at drug and department stores considered physician skin care?

 

1. What is physician skincare?

Physician skin care refers to products and treatments that are only available through a doctor's office.

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2. What does a typical physician skincare consultation entail?

You will meet with a facial plastic surgeon and discuss your skincare goals. The two of you will discuss your health and lifestyle, whether you smoke, what medications or vitamins you presently take and your medical history. You will explain your skin problems and discuss the various options that are available to you along with what you have already tried that didn't work.

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3. How is physician skincare treatment performed or administered?

Some treatments consist of prescribed products that you use at home. Other choices, including minimally invasive treatments such as chemical peels and laser skin resurfacing, require treatment at a doctor's office.

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4. Does insurance cover the cost of physician skin care?

It depends. Your prescription drug coverage may include certain oral or topical medications, but it may not. Coverage varies based on the treatment, the reason it was prescribed, and of course, your insurance plan. Insurance rarely covers the cost of purely cosmetic procedures. If the cost of physician skin care is out of your budget, discuss payment plans with your doctor.

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5. Are the "MD" or doctor-sponsored brands available at drug and department stores considered physician skin care?

Not necessarily, but these over-the-counter products can be worth trying if they fit into your budget. Remember to tell your skin care doctor about everything you have already tried so he or she can best decide which treatment or treatments will be most beneficial.

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