#CluedUpOnCosmeticProcedures
In 2019, the UK Government launched a new government campaign. There is already advice available from the NHS.
My heart sinks when I get a potential patient inquiring about a cosmetic injectable treatment and the first question is "how much is the treatment?" Whilst I try to keep my prices reasonable so I can reward my loyal patients and help them manage the upkeep of continued treatments, please be aware it would be foolish for price to be the deciding factor when choosing to undergo a cosmetic procedure.
Firstly, you must be over 18 years old and I would prefer you to be over 21 years old. You need to have emotional maturity and resilience to undergo a cosmetic procedure. There are certain common complications that you can expect following a treatment and you must have the resources to handle them. It can take 2-3 weeks for the body to heal post-procedure and you must be able to manage your emotions and expectations should that occur.
It is also best to wait and schedule your appointment well before any holiday or big event - at least 4-6 weeks. Not only is there often a wait to have a treatment from cosmetic medicine specialists but also it is ill-advised to have a treatment prior to travel (how could you be reviewed in the event of a complication or undesired outcome?!) or big event (again, what if you encounter severe swelling and/or an undesired outcome?) In many respects, you will benefit from being patient by scheduling your appointment with plenty of notice - especially if before a holiday or big event and taking time off work, if required.
Lastly, there are lots of good resources out there for you to read up about before you come to your consultation. Do check out www.consultingroom.com and www.realself.com and www.saveface.co.uk. I would be wary of videos from non-medical professionals discussing procedures because you are best seeking the views of the specialists in the field. Whilst you will receive a comprehensive consultation and consent, it's great to be prepared and that way you won't feel overwhelmed with information.
Juno Aesthetics has been validated and accredited by Save Face and meets the Consumer Checklist
Consumer Checklist
Your consultation with a medical professional registered with the NMC, GDC or GMC should cover the following checklist but if if doesn't, or if you have further questions... please ask. We are here to make sure you feel well informed about what your desired procedure entails and how to stay safe.
Expect:
To be seen by a doctor, nurse or dentist for your consultation and assessment and be treated by them.
To have sufficient time to consider all the information - avoid making hasty decisions.
To be offered a follow up appointment if necessary or desired.
Ask Questions, such as:
What is this treatment or product? How does it work? What are the side effects/ risks? What are the alternatives I might consider? What results can I expect? What will I look like immediately after? How long will the results last? How many treatments will I need and in what time frame? Are you able to treat complications should they occur? What happens if I am unhappy with the result? Is it painful? How do you minimise pain? What aftercare am I responsible for? What will it cost and what are the payment terms?
Be Safe:
Do not proceed with treatment if you do not feel comfortable with the practitioner.
Do not proceed with the treatment if you do not fully understand the information you are given.
Take the necessary time to make your decision.
Ask the practitioner to show you the product in its unopened package prior to treatment.
Make sure before pictures are taken and are available for your reference.
Do not have treatments in an environment that is clearly not clean or appropriate.