The Role and Responsibility of The Korean Academy of Aesthetic Medicine

Although the academic conference this year had been held on a smaller scale compared to that of the previous years due to COVID-19, it provided an opportunity to catch a glimpse of the more developed aesthetic medical field. Dr. Hye-won Ko, the chairman of the Korean Academy of Aesthetic Medicine (KAAM), answered the questions about the significance of the conference and the future growth prospects of the aesthetic medicine market.

- The conference is believed to mean a lot as it was held with much difficulty during the pandemic. What was the main theme of the conference?

The increasing media information sources allow us to easily access different data related to aesthetic medicine—but the problem lies in the accuracy. Professionals reach a limit as they try to deliver a vast amount of data within a short time. Hence, we had come up with the theme, “2020 passing on know-how from the basics to practices together with KAAM,” and prepared the context for the professionals of each related field to share and deeply discuss their latest knowledge and know-how. This makes us to remind ourselves of the original goals and to push hard in playing the role of the guide that provides correct information to the public.

- Aesthetic medicine is developing every day. What do you think about its further development?

Obesity treatment and aesthetics are closely related. I believe these two medical fields cannot help but continue to develop for acquiring both inner and outer beauty of the body. Besides, since the emergence of centenarians is increasing, so is the desire for an energetic, healthy life along with the growing demand for effective obesity management and aesthetic procedures. But this is expected to lead to the rise of products or treatment based on inaccurate evidence. As a result, there should be not only the role of professionals that classifies the information but also the improvement of public awareness.

- What is required of the public amid the overflowing information on aesthetic medicine?

Although acquiring the information on aesthetic medicine is quickly and easily done, it is advised not only to check the accuracy of the information but also to always consult with a professional whether the procedure is necessary and suitable for you or not. Academies, including ours, which have public confidence and groups of professionals, are broadening the range of communication with the public while providing scientifically proven information. I believe there should be efforts in carefully approaching the information through these professional academies rather than chasing after the trends each time.

- There were some inconveniences due to COVID-19 this year. Do you have any future activities planned out?

Training specialists is significant and so is nationwide promotion. Sadly, field publicity was not carried out this year due to COVID-19. We are planning on starting a program for publicity as soon as the situation settles. If we have a wish, that would be the support from the government on our publicity campaign. Aesthetic medicine will continue to develop, and reliable organizations such as the government and groups of specialists must actively lead the way for the public’s access to accurate information.

Our academic conference had been interacting with medical professionals abroad, including more than 100 Chinese doctors each year. As soon as the COVID-19 pandemic settles, we will resume our programs with overseas doctors to introduce internal excellent medical technologies and to share each other’s know-how.