At Khrom Dermatology & Aesthetics of Brooklyn, New York, our team assists patients with a wide range of skin concerns. As part of our integrative approach to dermatology, we utilize functional medicine. Let’s take a closer look at how we incorporate functional medicine into our practice.
What is functional medicine?
Functional medicine is a more holistic approach to healthcare that focuses on treating the root cause of disease rather than just the symptoms. It looks at all aspects of a person’s health, including physical, emotional, and environmental factors, to effectively create personalized treatment plans.
What are the key aspects of functional medicine?
- Personalized treatment plans. Functional medicine takes into account that every person is unique, so healthcare should be tailored to fit individual needs. This means that treatment plans are customized based on a person’s specific health concerns, genetics, lifestyle choices, and other factors.
- Identifying the root cause of medical conditions. Instead of just treating the symptoms that a patient is experiencing, functional medicine aims to identify and address the underlying cause of a health issue. This may involve looking at various contributing factors such as diet, stress levels, and environmental toxins. This can be done through comprehensive bloodwork panels, as well as other non-ordinary testing to look at hormone patterns, gut microbiome, and even toxin or mold exposure.
- Integrative approach. Functional medicine combines traditional Western medicine with alternative and complementary therapies to create a comprehensive treatment plan. This may start with low-hanging fruit like addressing nutritional deficiencies, and be complemented by nutraceuticals, herbal supplements, diet, and lifestyle adjustments as needed.
- Prevention. In functional medicine, the focus is on bringing the body to a balanced state, which both treats current health issues and prevents future ones. By investigating and addressing the root cause of their ailments, patients can improve their overall health and reduce the potential risk of developing chronic illnesses.
- Patient-centered care. Functional medicine puts the patient at the forefront of their healthcare journey. It involves truly listening to the patient’s concerns, taking a deep dive into assessing them, working together to create a treatment plan, and empowering them to take an active role in their health.
Why is functional medicine gaining in popularity?
Functional medicine is gaining popularity because it offers a more personalized and holistic approach to medicine and healthcare. Functional medicine also focuses on treating the whole patient rather than just their symptoms, often leading to better long-term health outcomes. Additionally, with the continued rise of chronic diseases and conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and autoimmune disorders, many patients are looking for alternative ways to manage their health. Functional medicine offers a natural, preventative approach that aligns with this growing trend.
How is functional medicine used in integrative dermatology?
In dermatology, functional medicine can be applied to various skin conditions such as acne, eczema, psoriasis, and rosacea. By identifying the underlying issue, our team develops a personalized treatment solution that may include dietary changes, stress management techniques, natural supplements, and traditional dermatological treatments. This integrative approach can help improve the skin’s overall health and address any underlying causes that might be actively contributing to the condition.
Call Khrom Dermatology & Aesthetics today!
If you reside in the area of Brooklyn, NY, and want to speak to a professional about integrative dermatology and functional medicine, request a consultation by calling 718-751-0674. We are open to new and returning patients.
