With the current fear around filler safety, Dr Catherine Stone from The Face Place has identified the key things you should look for in a safe injectable clinic.
Beware of heavy discounts
Injectable treatments should be looked at as an investment and those seeking them out should be wary of cheap deals, says Dr Catherine Stone. “Paying less money in the short term may mean that you pay in other ways in the long term.”
Those who do opt to cut costs may find themselves having to visit a separate clinic down the line, to fix any complications.
For example, Dr Cat explains The Face Place generally charges more because they invest in good quality training and product – and in the rare instance of a complication, they will be able to resolve any issues at no extra cost if it is a treatment they have done.
Always ask about training, experience and side effects
Though it seems obvious, it is extremely important to know who will be administering the Botox or fillers. Dr Cat explains patients should ask how much experience they have had with the procedure and what training or support they have in managing any potential side effects. “If a nurse is injecting you, ask who their ‘oversight doctor’ is, and how much cosmetic injectables experience this doctor has had, as they are who is there to support the nurse should anything go wrong.”
Do your research and don't rush
One warning sign is if the team look particularly over-treated – do their faces move strangely or is this not the aesthetic you would like to have? Do your research on social media, on their website and in person. You can always find another clinician if at any point you have doubts. On a similar note, Dr Cat says you should never feel forced or coerced into having a treatment. After the options, potential risks and proposed management is outlined, the patient gets to choose in their own time if it’s right for them.
Transparency around products
“We have heard several cases of people thinking they are being treated with one product and then being treated with something else,” explains Dr Cat. Therefore, it is vital to understand what product is being used, for what intended result, at what price before proceeding with treatment. You can even ask to check the expiry date on fillers beforehand for peace of mind.
The consultation
The time required for a consultation may seem lengthy; however consultations are extremely crucial to the process and should last for at least 45 minutes according to Dr Cat. This gives time to properly educate the patient including the management of any side effects. “Although this part can often be scary, remember that the vast majority of treatments are very easy and uncomplicated. If something does go wrong though, you want to know that they can recognise and treat it.”
