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SkinCare Physicians^® of Boston Advises Careful Review of Credentials after News of Laser Injury

In response to news about a woman who received third-degree burns during laser hair removal from an unlicensed provider, the doctors at SkinCare Physicians^® are urging people to investigate the credentials of anyone offering cosmetic services.

Boston, Massachusetts (August 2010) – At SkinCare Physicians, the team of skin care specialists in Boston represent internationally recognized, highly qualified leaders in their field. After recent news of a young woman who received severe burns from a laser hair removal treatment performed by an unlicensed provider, they are redoubling their efforts to improve patient education about provider qualifications.

A 22 year old Miami woman received first-, second-, and third-degree burns during a laser hair removal procedure performed by someone who did not even have a medical license. After the procedure the patient developed blisters in the area and went to the emergency room and learned that she had severe burns on her underarms from the laser hair removal. Boston skin care specialist and board-certified dermatologist, Dr. Michael Kaminer of SkinCare Physicians explains why patient education is imperative when considering a procedure.

“This patient is not the first to choose an unlicensed practitioner to perform their procedure,” says Dr. Kaminer. “Our goal is to do whatever we can to ensure that she is one of the last. And the best way to do that is to educate patients about the importance of physician qualifications. There’s a good chance that, if the patient had chosen a qualified professional to perform her procedure, this story would have a far different and happier ending.”

During laser hair removal, the laser produces a beam of light that is absorbed by the pigment in hair, causing damage to the hair shaft and follicle. When performed correctly, the laser should not damage the surrounding tissue. Patients may feel slight discomfort, like a rubber band being snapped against the skin, but this is usually not even severe enough to require anything more than topical anesthesia (if any).

“In my opinion, when you’re considering a procedure like laser hair removal, a medical license is really just a bare minimum,” explains Dr. Kaminer. “Laser hair removal can be a safe and highly-effective procedure when performed by a skilled professional. But it uses sensitive and powerful technology, and should not be performed by someone without proper training.”

Dr. Kaminer and his associates recommend taking several important steps when choosing a provider for cosmetic procedures such as laser hair removal: request their full curriculum vitae, check their medical license and board-certification(s), ask to view before and after photographs, and discuss their experience with your specific procedure (including their special training and how many treatments they’ve performed).

“When people come to my practice for cosmetic surgery in Boston and request information about my credentials or experience, it is my duty – and my pleasure – to give them that information. That’s how it should be. Patients should be very concerned if their practitioner is unwilling to provide this type of information, and they should choose a different practice,” says Dr. Kaminer. “Be assertive and proactive when it comes to your cosmetic care and health care – it’s one of the most effective ways to ensure positive results.”

To meet with one of our highly trained and experienced doctors, request a consultation online or call (617) 731-1600 to schedule your appointment.