title: Introduction to cosmetic surgery.
abstract: Patients seeking information on improving their appearance is becoming increasingly popular, and dermatologists are often the first to be consulted. It is therefore important for the dermatologist to acknowledge the patient's concerns and if they are not willing or capable of addressing these needs, one should refer them to an appropriate health care provider. However, if the dermatologist does elect to provide a service, it is crucial not only to obtain the knowledge and technical skill but the mechanism to select and recognize who is an acceptable candidate from both anatomic and psychological perspectives.
authors.affiliation: Department of Dermatology, University of California, School of Medicine, San Francisco 94117.
authors.forename: S L
authors.initials: SL
authors.lastname: Matarasso
mesh_terms: D001291:Attitude of Health Personnel; D003880:Dermatology; D006801:Humans; D010361:Patients; D010817:Physician-Patient Relations; D011182:Postoperative Care; D011300:Preoperative Care; D012017:Referral and Consultation; D013518:Surgery, Plastic