Before considering any aesthetic treatment, a patient should consult with a qualified practitioner. Meeting with a professional will provide a solid foundation and allow you to obtain answers to important questions. Whether you're considering botulinum toxin injections, hyaluronic acid treatments or another type of procedure, it's in your best interests to be prepared by asking the right questions. Here are the points to cover during an aesthetic medicine patient consultation so you can be confident you are making an informed choice.
What are your qualifications and experience?
The first question to ask concerns the practitioner's qualifications and experience. In aesthetic medicine, results depend largely on the skill of the person performing the procedure. Make sure the professional you have chosen is properly trained in aesthetic medicine and has solid experience. Ask how many times they have performed the procedure you are considering. This will help you assess their level of expertise and mastery of the latest techniques.
What are the risks and potential side effects?
Any procedure, even those that are non-surgical, carries risks. It's important to understand all possible side effects, both temporary and permanent. For example, in the case of botulinum toxin, redness, bruising or temporary muscle weakness may occur. Similarly, with hyaluronic acid injections, swelling, inflammatory reactions or even granulomas may occur. Asking for clarification on these points will help you make an informed decision about your own treatment, and assess whether the expected benefits outweigh any possible risks.
What is the total cost of the treatment?
Aesthetic treatments are not always affordable, and prices can vary depending on the type of treatment, the practitioner and the geographical region where the procedure is performed. Ask for a detailed estimate that includes follow-up consultations if necessary. Some treatments, such as hyaluronic acid injections, require regular touch-ups to maintain results. So, it's important to have a clear view of the overall cost of the procedure and of any potential follow-up care.
What kind of results can I realistically expect?
For aesthetic medicine treatments, patient expectations must be grounded in reality. A competent practitioner will be able to explain the limitations of each treatment. For example, botulinum toxin can reduce expression lines, but cannot correct significant skin sagging. Hyaluronic acid injections can restore lost facial volume, but will not produce the same effects as a surgical facelift. Ask your practitioner to show you before-and-after photos of cases similar to yours to get a better idea of the results you can expect.
How long will the results of the treatment last?
Different treatments will provide results that last different lengths of time. Botulinum toxin injections, for example, require touch-ups every 3 to 6 months, while hyaluronic acid injections can last between 6 and 18 months, depending on the area treated and the type of product used. Ask your practitioner how long you can expect results to last, and how often touch-ups are recommended to maintain the effect.
What happens if there are complications?
Although complications are rare when aesthetic treatment is carried out by a qualified professional, they can occur. That's why it's important to know how your practitioner will respond. Ask about the procedures they have planned in the event of serious side effects, such as infection, allergic reaction or tissue necrosis. Your practitioner should be able to reassure you by explaining exactly what will be done in each scenario.
What is the recovery time and what precautions should be taken after treatment?
Some procedures, although non-invasive, may require some recovery time. Filler injections, for example, may cause swelling or redness that lasts several days. It's important to know how long it will be before you can resume your normal activities, and what precautions you'll need to take after treatment. These may include avoiding the sun, not massaging the treated area, or postponing certain strenuous physical activities.
Which products do you use?
Ask your practitioner what type of products they use for injections, and make sure those products are approved by health authorities. Whether it's botulinum toxin or hyaluronic acid-based products, injections must be of high quality. Some products may be prone to variations in terms of concentration, duration of efficacy, or compatibility with your skin. A discussion on this point will also help you understand whether a particular treatment is suitable for your specific needs.
What is the post-treatment follow-up?
Post-treatment follow-up is often overlooked during aesthetic patient consultations. Yet it is a key part of the overall procedure. A good practitioner will suggest a follow-up to confirm that the results are in line with your expectations and that there are no complications. Ask about the practitioner's availability after the procedure and about any follow-up consultations included in the initial price.
Asking these questions during your aesthetic medicine patient consultation will allow you to approach your procedure with peace of mind and make informed choices. It's important to trust your practitioner, and to be fully informed about the risks, benefits and costs associated with your treatment. Good preparation is the key to achieving the results you are hoping for, with minimal risk.
