How to Choose a Medical Aesthetics Provider: 7 Things Patients Should Look For

Medical aesthetics refers to medical treatments intended to change the appearance of the skin or features, such as wrinkle relaxer injections, laser and light-based treatments, and microneedling. Because these are medical procedures with risks as well as potential benefits, choosing a provider is a decision worth making carefully. The seven areas below can help you evaluate any medical aesthetics provider.

1. What are the provider's credentials, and who provides medical oversight?

Start by asking who is responsible for your care. A medical aesthetics practice should be able to tell you which physicians and licensed providers are involved, what licenses and certifications they hold, and how medical oversight works.

In Florida, you can check whether a physician, nurse practitioner or other licensed health care professional holds an active license, and whether any public disciplinary actions are on record, using the Florida Department of Health's license verification search.

You can read about Synergy Health's physicians and nurse practitioners, including their credentials, before you visit.

2. Who will actually perform the treatment?

The person who performs a treatment is not always the person whose name is on the practice. Ask who will perform your treatment, what their license is, what training and experience they have with that specific procedure, and who supervises them. The FDA encourages patients considering aesthetic device procedures to ask about their provider's training and experience with the procedure.

3. Does the consultation include a medical evaluation?

A consultation should include a review of your goals and your health, not only a discussion of treatments. Expect questions about your medical history, current medications and supplements, allergies, prior treatments and any past reactions. Your provider should examine the area of concern in person before recommending anything.

4. Will you receive the information you need for informed consent?

Informed consent means you receive the information you need to make a decision, and you agree to treatment before it happens. The American Medical Association's Code of Medical Ethics describes this as including the nature and purpose of a recommended treatment and the risks, burdens and expected benefits of all options, including choosing not to have treatment. A good provider gives you time to ask questions and does not rush the decision.

5. Are expectations described realistically?

The FDA notes that aesthetic procedures may not deliver the results you want, and effects may be temporary. A provider should explain what a treatment is intended to do, what it cannot do, how long effects typically last when that is known, and what may affect your individual response. Be cautious of anyone who promises a specific result or describes results as guaranteed or permanent.

6. Are alternatives, risks, aftercare and follow-up explained?

There is often more than one way to approach a concern, including waiting or choosing no treatment. Ask which options may be appropriate for you and why. Before you agree to any treatment, you should understand:

• The common side effects and the less common risks
• How to prepare, including whether to pause any medications or supplements, only as your provider directs
• What recovery and aftercare involve
• How follow-up works, and who to contact if you have a concern after your visit

7. Is pricing clear, and is there pressure to decide?

Ask for the total cost of what is being recommended, in writing, before you commit. A provider focused on your long-term interests should be comfortable with you taking time to decide, getting a second opinion or declining a package.

What questions should I ask during an aesthetic consultation?

1. Who will perform my treatment, what is their license, and who supervises them?
2. Based on my health history and goals, which options may be appropriate for me, and why?
3. What are the risks, side effects and recovery for each option, including doing nothing?
4. What results are realistic for someone like me, and how long do effects typically last?
5. What is the total cost, and what follow-up is included?

Medical aesthetics consultations in Trinity and Ocala

Synergy Health is a physician-led practice with locations in Trinity and Ocala. Medical aesthetic services are offered at both locations, and you can review the Face & Skin treatments we offer, such as wrinkle relaxers and laser skin resurfacing. A consultation is the place to ask the questions in this guide; whether any treatment may be appropriate for you is determined individually by a licensed provider.

Medical Disclaimer: This content is provided for general educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Treatment options, risks, potential benefits, eligibility, and expected outcomes vary by individual and by the specific treatment being considered. A consultation and medical evaluation are necessary to determine whether a treatment may be appropriate for you.

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