(This is the second of two columns about changing your appearance. The first was on plastic surgery. This one is about cosmetic procedures.)

Cosmetic procedures are used to make the skin look more youthful. Many dermatologists perform cosmetic procedures. Here are some examples:Microdermabrasion uses tiny, fine particles or a very hard diamond-tipped wand to slough off cells from the top layer of the skin and encourage new skin growth.Laser resurfacing uses high-intensity light to zap and improve the look of wrinkles and scars by tightening loose skin.Chemical peels are used to treat mild acne scars, age spots, dull skin texture, skin discoloration, or wrinkles around the eyes or mouth. The peels remove the outer layers of the skin and encourage the growth of new, smoother, more evenly colored skin.Botox injections can paralyze tiny facial muscles, smoothing out the appearance of lines or wrinkles.The American Academy of Dermatology, which represents virtually all practicing dermatologists in the United States, advises patients to ask 10 questions before undergoing a cosmetic procedure. The following are those questions with answers I've edited to meet space requirements:Will a board-certified dermatologist perform the procedure?The AAD urges everyone considering a cosmetic procedure to select a doctor who is board certified in dermatology or a similar medical specialty. All treatments should be performed by the physician or under the direct supervision of the physician. Complications increase when cosmetic procedures are not performed by a board-certified physician or under the doctor's direct supervision.How many times has the doctor performed the procedure?The procedure should be one that the doctor performs regularly. When physicians have specialized training in performing a procedure and have successfully performed the procedure on numerous patients, they usually want others to know.What results can I expect?A dermatologist typically tells a patient what to expect after visually examining the skin and gathering a medical history.May I see before and after photographs of patients or speak with patients whom the doctor has treated with this procedure(s)?Doctors should be willing to share their results through photographs or referrals. If a physician is hesitant to do so, find one who will.What is the recovery time?While cosmetic procedures have become less invasive and require less downtime, patients should know what to expect after the procedure. For example, after botulinum (Botox) rejuvenation, patients can have temporary swelling, redness or bruising.What are the risks and side effects of the procedure?While the risks involved in most cosmetic procedures are minimal, there are risks. Potential complications should be discussed before the cosmetic procedure is scheduled.How long will the results last?Most cosmetic results are not permanent. While a patient's lifestyle and overall health can shorten the length of time that a patient sees the results, there are general guidelines.Where will the procedure be performed?Most cosmetic procedures can be safely and effectively performed in a physician's office, surgical suite, or outpatient surgical center. This gives the patient a safe, cost-effective alternative to the hospital and a level of care that spas, shopping malls, and walk-in clinics cannot offer.What follow-up care is included?Follow-up care is an important part of cosmetic surgical procedures. Be wary of undergoing any cosmetic surgery that does not include follow-up care.What is the cost of the treatment?Insurance usually does not cover the cost of a cosmetic procedure. Before scheduling the procedure, find out the costs and how payment will be required.The Times News, Inc., and affiliates (TIMES NEWS) do not endorse or recommend any medical products, processes, or services or provide medical advice. The views of the author do not necessarily state or reflect those of the TIMES NEWS. The article content is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician, or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.