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An increasing number of people in Western countries are exploring alternative medicine as part of their medical care. In 2007, 38% of Americans 18 years or older used some form of alternative medicine. With the rise in popularity of alternative medicine has come an increase in the use of alternative medicine for cosmetic treatments, including cosmetic acupuncture and natural facial rejuvenation acupuncture.
In cosmetic acupuncture, acupuncture needles are inserted into the face to allow for the “good” Qi, or energy, to nourish the areas of concern. The practice opens the acupuncture meridians by dispersing any pathogens that are causing obstructions.
Cosmetic acupuncture facilitates facial rejuvenation, and it can speed recovery for conditions such as acne, alopecia, eczema, and other skin conditions. Cosmetic acupuncture is known to be much safer than conventional cosmetic surgery and the use of topical medications.
Cosmetic acupuncture and its Eastern philosophical roots
Cosmetic acupuncture fits within the basic principles of traditional acupuncture, which is a form of alternative medicine.
Although the distinction between conventional and alternative medicine is not always easy to determine, a basic philosophical difference exists: Conventional medicine generally defines health as the absence of disease or dysfunction. The main causes of disease and dysfunction are usually isolated factors, such as bacteria or viruses, biochemical imbalances, and aging, and treatment often involves drugs or surgery.
In contrast, alternative medicine defines health holistically – a balance of physical, emotional, and spiritual systems involving the whole person. Disharmony among these systems is thought to cause illness. Treatment involves strengthening the body’s own defenses and restoring these balances.
Alternative medicine or Traditional Chinese Medicine can be classified into five major categories of practice:
- Acupuncture
- Mind-body techniques
- Biologically based therapies
- Manual therapies
- Energy therapies
Some alternative approaches are recognized within the concepts of modern science and are based on scientific evidence, whereas other approaches are not.
Cosmetic acupuncture as part of an integrative approach
In traditional medicine practices, a surgeon prepares patients physically, mentally, and nutritionally for surgery. While many surgeons may recommend patients see therapists, trainers, or nutritionists as a pre-surgical precaution, they might not educate patients on why and how these things will help. The use of integrative medicine, which calls on both conventional and alternative therapeutic approaches, focuses on the whole person to enhance that education. There are many ways conventional medicine benefits from alternative therapies.
As part of this approach, acupuncture and oriental medicine can provide relief from numbness and tingling that patients may experience after traditional cosmetic surgery.
To learn more about the benefits of acupuncture, browse our blogs.
Acupuncture & Massage College’s Community Clinic offers acupuncture, massage therapy, and herbal medicine for the treatment of a wide range of health conditions as well as for overall wellness. To schedule an appointment call (305) 595-9500. For information about AMC’s Oriental Medicine and Massage Therapy programs ask for Joe Calareso, Admissions Director.
