If you are considering a minimally invasive or non-surgical cosmetic procedure, it is important to understand that there are significant differences between plastic surgeons and medical spa doctors who are not trained plastic surgeons. The cosmetic industry can be very misleading in persuading prospective patients into thinking they are getting the same quality of treatment at a med-spa that they would get from a plastic surgeon. The only way that can happen is if the doctor is a board certified plastic surgeon.
You must realize that a plastic surgeon or facial plastic surgeon who is board certified has extensive training and understands both, the anatomy of surgery and the effects of aging. Regular and rigorous board certification exams require that plastic surgeons stay updated on their skills and knowledge. Medical spa doctors cannot claim the same level of expertise.
Unfortunately, it is only in retrospect, after a procedure has gone wrong that patients come to understand the importance of a qualified specialist. Even with today’s advanced technology, many minimally invasive and non-surgical treatments do have risks that are far less likely to occur in the most skillful hands.
Do your research. Be thorough. Of course you want to get recommendations from friends and acquaintances who’ve had the same procedure you are researching. However, your own depth of research into your doctor’s qualifications will give you the greatest confidence. During your in-person consultation, ask many questions to verify the doctor’s qualifications before scheduling treatment. No matter how simple the procedure sounds, it is your body, your face, and your life being transformed. You want to make certain the transformation is for the best.
