Board Forum: What Do You Predict for Leg Aesthetics This Year?

Do you anticipate increased demand for leg procedures with the recent approvals of Qwo and Soliton? How will you market cellulite treatments in your practice?

Todd Schlesinger, MD: I anticipate an increase in demand commensurate with the marketing campaigns of industry behind the new approvals. Whether the effect is lasting will remain to be seen. Our practice does not specifically market cellulite treatments at this time, but after evaluating the merits of available options, that may change.

Cheryl Burgess, MD: The top questions I hear in my practice are regarding cellulite and stretch marks. With the new FDA indication for Qwo for cellulite, we have addressed one of the questions. The excitement Qwo, collagenase clostridium histolyticum, is generating for the upcoming summer months is promising.

Do you anticipate increased demand for other leg treatments, such as for hair removal, “butt lifts,” and more?

Dr. Burgess: I anticipate all body contouring, laser hair removal, and cosmetic procedures to see increased demand, due to a summerless 2020. People are tired of wearing sweatpants and Uggs and are anxious to show off their bodies. There was time to surf social media for all of the cosmetic procedures and establishments that offered complimentary Zoom consultations from anywhere in the world. It was an educational, informative year to say the least.

Dr. Schlesinger: I believe the demand will increase. We are a dermatology practice. The demand for hair removal services has been steadily increasing. The cellulite market as it stands, I believe, will depend on the outcomes of the newly approved treatment options once they come into wider play.

Are you using energy-based devices for hips, thighs, and buttock treatments for fat reduction and/or contouring? How about for skin tightening?

Dr. Schlesinger: We are and have been for a number of years. We are using the BTL line of equipment, which has been received well. We also offer CoolSculpting. Demand is increasing, and those services have been performing better than expected in the last several quarters.

Dr. Burgess: I perform radiofrequency and microfocused ultrasound in my cosmetic dermatology practice.

Any thoughts on treatments of the hips, thighs, and buttocks? Pearls for treatment or marketing?

Dr. Schlesinger: I think treatment of these areas requires a comprehensive approach and a dedication to the craft. It is not for everyone. Those who choose to adopt this part of their practice should be prepared to offer a complete approach, including excellent standardized photography and the facilities to promote an excellent patient experience. There is still a lot of hype out there, and the lack of a standardized approach has produced a number of treatment options that are marginally effective. I am confident that innovation will bring improved outcomes and increased safety. As far as marketing goes, sometimes a back-to-basics approach works. Older methods of reaching the target audience may be helpful now that the #WFH movement has taken hold.

Dr. Burgess: Consider off-label use of PLLA for buttock enhancement, lessening the appearance of striae and skin laxity. The time to market is now in order to be ready for summer!