Dear Editor:
As an oculofacial surgeon and President of the American Society of Ophthalmic Plastic Surgery, I was concerned about Lisette Hilton’s recent article “Botox Gone Rogue.”
Dr. Larry Fan is quoted as saying “The only injectors who consistently possess these skills and knowledge, with a few exceptions, include board-certified plastic surgeons, facial plastic surgeons and dermatologic surgeons.”
I wonder if he was misquoted, because surely he recognizes Ophthalmology, specifically Oculofacial Surgery, as one of the “Core 4” specialties focusing on aesthetic surgery including botulinum toxin. In fact, the next paragraph quotes an Ophthalmic Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Martin, who is an obvious choice to comment on the periorbital aspects of botulinum toxin side effects. Botulinum toxin was developed by Ophthalmologists, and our specialty has played a central role in the understanding of the uses, and side effects, of botulinum toxin injections.
I presume this was an oversight and not an intentional insult. Cosmetic Surgery Times has featured many Oculofacial Surgeons over the years, including me, and I know that you promote an appropriate, multi-specialty approach to Cosmetic Surgery. I also know that you understand that these issues are sensitive, because there has been a tendency in the past for disrespect between various specialties in aesthetic surgery.
We appreciate your understanding and attention to this important issue. An erratum would be appropriate.
Sincerely,
Robert Alan Goldberg, MD

President, American Society of Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (ASOPRS)
Professor of Ophthalmology and Chief of Orbital and Ophthalmic Plastic Surgery, UCLA Stein Eye Institute, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA
