Nonsurgical

Nonsurgical refers to medical, dental, and cosmetic interventions that do not involve traditional surgical incisions. Procedures described as nonsurgical may be noninvasive, using topical agents, energy-based devices, or injections, or they may be minimally invasive in the sense that they do not require open operative approaches. The term contrasts with surgery, which typically involves cutting, removal, or alteration of tissue.

In cosmetic medicine and dermatology, nonsurgical modalities are commonly used to address aging, skin texture, fat reduction, and contouring. Examples include botulinum toxin injections and dermal fillers; chemical peels and dermabrasion; laser and light-based therapies; microneedling; and noninvasive fat reduction methods such as cryolipolysis, radiofrequency, and high-intensity focused ultrasound. In medical practice, nonsurgical care can include physical therapy, pharmacologic management, and other treatment strategies that do not require operative intervention. Some procedures may be considered minimally invasive if they involve needles, incisions of minimal size, or device-assisted access, though they are still pursued without formal surgery.

Benefits of nonsurgical options typically include shorter recovery times, lower immediate risk, and reduced anesthesia requirements. Limitations may include less dramatic or durable results compared with surgery, the need for multiple sessions, and limitations on what conditions or concerns can be effectively treated.

Safety and regulation emphasize that nonsurgical procedures should be performed by trained professionals using approved devices and products, with appropriate patient selection, informed consent, and monitoring for adverse effects.