Before you commit to any procedure at an aesthetics clinic, it's natural to feel both excited and maybe a bit nervous. After all, aesthetics procedures, though minimally invasive, are still medical treatments. Before selecting a clinic or practitioner, there are a few key questions you should ask to ensure you're putting your face in the right hands. Let’s explore what factors you should pay attention to and what exactly you should be asking before scheduling that all-important consultation.
Who will perform the procedure?
You might assume that every consultation or procedure is carried out by a qualified doctor or aesthetic practitioner. This, however, isn’t always the case. Some clinics delegate tasks like Botox injections or dermal fillers to nurses or practitioners with limited training. It’s always worth confirming upfront. Ask specifically who will administer the treatment and whether they have the relevant qualifications. You should also ideally look into the professional’s background in aesthetic medicine.
At Dr Brad’s facial aesthetics clinic, for instance, the treatments are performed by Dr Brad himself. His expertise as a practising GP and aesthetic specialist trained by industry leaders ensures a high level of care, knowledge and precision. This isn’t the case at every clinic, where less experienced staff might be performing procedures.
What products or brands do you use?
Every aesthetics clinic should openly disclose what products they use. It’s essential that you’re informed about the brand and grade of the substances that will be injected or applied to your skin. For instance, when it comes to dermal fillers or botulinum toxin treatments (like Botox), only reputable, market-leading brands should be used.
In a scenario shared by one of Dr Brad’s clients, she expressed her concerns initially when noticing online that there were cheaper options out there than those Dr Brad provided. Upon attending the consultation, Dr Brad explained how non-branded options, though cheaper, are far less regulated and can come with severe risks. She quickly realised that her skin and face were not areas to compromise on quality. She left the clinic, relieved and more knowledgeable about the risks of non-reputable products.
What results can I expect realistically?
This is a crucial question that often goes unasked. In an era of Instagram filters and perfectly airbrushed skin, it’s all too easy for expectations to soar a bit too high. A candid and open conversation about realistic outcomes is vital. Ask about what you can expect for your specific skin type and features. How long will the results last? What are the likely side effects or downtime?
A responsible practitioner, like Dr Brad, will always ask about your expectations and sometimes guide you towards different options if what you’re imagining isn’t achievable—or safe. Trust principle goes a long way here. Be wary of any clinic that promises the moon or does not explain potential side effects properly.
Are you insured?
While it’s easy to get caught up focusing on final results, it’s equally crucial to ensure you’re protected in case things don’t go according to plan. Before agreeing to any procedure, ask whether the clinic and practitioner are fully insured.
Respectable clinics like Dr Brad's make it a point to prioritise safety and back it up with proper insurance for every procedure they perform. Knowing this bit of information should give you peace of mind, allowing you to approach your treatment without fear of risk or careless aftercare.
Are consultations free, and what do they entail?
Having a consultation isn’t just a formality; it's your chance to assess whether the practitioner understands your goals and whether you feel comfortable with their approach. Some clinics offer free consultations but ensure you’re getting more than just a brief chat before the procedure. A thoughtful consultation should include an analysis of your skin, a discussion of what you want to achieve, a review of any medical history, and even potential alternative solutions.
At Dr Brad’s clinic, consultations are valued as a space to talk openly. He takes the time to answer every little question, no matter how trivial it may seem, and provides you with all the details you need to make an informed decision. It's not just about selling a treatment, it's about making sure the journey from consultation to procedure is personalised to you.
What aftercare should I expect?
Even though non-surgical aesthetic procedures don’t carry the long recovery times of surgical operations, aftercare is still necessary. Ask your practitioner what you should do in the hours and days following your procedure. Will there be swelling, bruising, or tenderness? How can you reduce the risk of complications, and what should prompt you to seek medical advice?
In another case, a patient of Dr Brad’s had a mild swelling post-treatment on her lips. Because Dr Brad had explained detailed aftercare during her consultation, she knew this symptom was normal and followed the aftercare routine closely. Sure enough, within 24 hours, the swelling went down, and she was delighted with the outcome. Proper aftercare contributes just as much to the final results as the procedure itself, and an excellent practitioner will guide you through it and be available if you have any questions as you heal.
Can I see before-and-after photos?
Seeing is believing, and most clinics should have a portfolio of patient results that they can show you. However, photos can be manipulated, so look carefully. Are they high-quality images? Can you see a variety of angles and lighting conditions? Good clinics, like Dr Brad's, will be proud to show you their work transparently and have nothing to hide. They’ll also have testimonials from clients who can vouch for their services.
Remember, aesthetics isn't just about artistry; it's about technical skill and safety. A trustworthy practitioner won’t promise perfect results to everyone, but they will help you towards a more confident version of yourself with realistic expectations.
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This article does not constitute medical advice. Please book with Dr Brad for a consultation.