Family Medicine Aesthetic Medicine (FMA) Scope: Conditions, Diseases, Treatments, and Procedures
Family Medicine Aesthetic Medicine (FMA) is a branch of Family Medicine that focuses on the enhancement and improvement of physical appearance using medical and surgical treatments.
The scope of FMA is broad, encompassing the diagnosis and management of a variety of conditions related to aesthetic medicine. These include wrinkles, scarring, discoloration, lax skin, fat deposits, and other skin concerns. FMA also encompasses non-surgical treatments such as laser resurfacing, chemical peels, botulinum toxin injections, dermal fillers, and cryotherapy. Additionally, FMA physicians may perform reconstructive procedures for birth defects, traumatic injuries, burn victims, or cancer survivors.
FMA practitioners must be able to evaluate a patient’s medical history and determine which treatments are appropriate and safe for them. Additionally, they must be able to educate patients on the risks associated with any treatments that are recommended.
Ultimately, the objective of FMA is to safely improve a patient’s appearance.
Family Medicine Aesthetic Medicine (FMA) Qualifications, Training, and Certifications
Family Medicine Aesthetic Medicine (FMA) is a specialized field that requires practitioners to have advanced training and qualifications beyond that of a regular family physician. In order to practice FMA, practitioners must be board-certified in Family Medicine and have completed additional training in aesthetic medicine.
The American Board of Family Medicine (ABFM) offers certifications in Family Medicine/Aesthetic Medicine for practitioners who have completed the necessary training and qualifications. To receive this certification, clinicians must demonstrate their knowledge and proficiency in the areas of FMA by passing the ABFM exam. Additionally, they must be able to demonstrate their clinical experience with aesthetic procedures, such as injectable treatments, laser treatments, and skin treatments.
Related Medical Specialties to Family Medicine Aesthetic Medicine (FMA)
Related medical specialties to FMA include dermatology, plastic surgery, and oculoplastic surgery. In terms of aesthetics, dermatology focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of skin conditions, including the wrinkles, scars, discoloration, lax skin, fat deposits and more. Plastic surgery is used to improve the appearance of certain body parts or features and inclides reconstructive surgery. Lastly, oculoplastic surgery is a specialized branch of ophthalmology that focuses on the correction of conditions around the globe, including the lacrimal ducts, eyelids, and orbit, and encompasses facial defects.
FMA practitioners must be knowledgeable about these related specialties in order to properly diagnose and treat patients and adise about alternative treatment options. Additionally, they must be able to educate patients on the risks associated with any treatments that are recommended.
Medical-Legal Cases Involving Family Medicine Aesthetic Medicine (FMA)
One example of a medical-legal case involving FMA is a wrongful death suit filed against an FMA practitioner who performed a facial procedure.
Another example of a medical-legal case involving FMA is a malpractice suit filed against an FMA practitioner who allegedly failed to properly inform a patient of the risks associated with a procedure.