The concept of having access to medical test from our home works well for most people. A recent ABC news story looked at the effectiveness of popular medical test on the market. According to the news story Consumer Reports says some medical tests could provide wrong information, like a home test designed to let women know menopause has begun. Women in their late 40s and 50s might interpret those results to mean that they no longer need birth control, and that could result in an unwanted pregnancy, said Marvin Lipman of Consumer Reports. Some of the other home tests have debatable value, this includes the ones that claim to test for high cholesterol levels, These tests measure total cholesterol, but you still need a doctor to interpret the results for you and to tell you what to do about it, Lipman said. A medical test on the market can help you discover if you have a urinary-tract infection, but you need a prescription for medication to cure the urinary tract infection from a physician if you get a positive result. You really have to know in advance whether your doctor is willing to prescribe over the phone. Many are not willing to do that, Lipman said. At-home test, whether recommended or not, all have instructions indicating that consumers should not substitute the test for medical advice or diagnoses. Dr. Kim explains to his patients the value of maintaining excellent health especially those who are approaching middle-age in their 40s and 50s. Just as self-diagnosis through at-home medical test is not a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment the same holds true for cosmetic laser skincare devices that are becoming more prevalent on the market today. Dr. Kim treats many patients who are concerned about the appearance of aging on their skin as well as acne scarring, brown spots, and uneven skin tone. Today’s lasers are improved dramatically and with medical laser resurfacing many of these issues can be addressed and improved. It stands to reason that at-home laser products will not have the strength and effectiveness that would be available in a plastic surgeons office. Dr. Kim invites patients to consult with him concerning their skin and consider if laser resurfacing and other medical grade skin care treatments are right for them. As an a ASPS skilled plastic surgeon Dr. Kim is able to offer exceptional results with facial rejuvenation surgeries including facelift, brow lift, and blepharoplasty for appropriate candidates.
