A consultation is very important in making sure that you and I are on the same page when it comes to your aesthetic concerns. It is a chance for us to sit down one on one and review in detail the nature of potential procedures you may be interested in. It is during your consultation when I will review your medical history to make sure you are a good candidate for the desired procedure.
It is also imperative that you feel comfortable with your injector prior to any procedure. There are many qualified physicians, mid-levels, and registered nurses that perform cosmetic procedures. How do you choose one provider over the other? Experience certainly plays a role, as it is important to know that your injector is thoroughly trained. Your injector should be fully accredited and hold a medical license. Do they practice aesthetic medicine in a primary role or is it something they do on the side? Being up to date with new techniques is certainly important with an evolving field of medicine and those that are practicing aesthetics in a primary role are likely going to be the most up to date on the newest techniques and procedures.
You should become comfortable with your injector and trust that he or she is focused on accomplishing your aesthetic goals. I often like to address my patients concerns in numerical order so that we can make sure we accomplish what is on the top of their lists. I would consider it an unsuccessful consultation if one of my patients left my office feeling as if their main concerns were not addressed.
Before and after photos can be reviewed and discussed during your consultation. We can talk about skin care and which of the many, many (many!) products are best. Ask as many questions as you’d like. This is YOUR face and YOUR body. You need to know all the ins and outs of what is being done! You are your biggest advocate. And knowledge is certainly power when it comes to your own health.