How to Choose the Right Medical Spa: What to Look for Before Your First Treatment.
A medical spa blends medical grade treatments only found in doctors offices with a more relaxing environment, all overseen by a trusted care provider. Here, at the office of Robert M Freund, our medical spa focuses on rejuvenation and anti-aging, to make all of our patients feel like their most beautiful selves.
For patients, it’s important to understand that not all med spas are created equal. The gold standard is a med spa run by a physician with specialized training in the treatments offered – typically a board-certified plastic surgeon, who has in-depth knowledge on facial anatomy and producing best aesthetic outcomes. This ensures the highest level of care and best aesthetic outcomes. Others may be run by physicians certified in unrelated specialties with less training in these cosmetic procedures, or non physicians, with less medical training overall. Doing your research is important when choosing a facility!
Although most treatments offered at med spas are relatively low risk, they still involve your health and your appearance, and require medical knowledge, clinical judgment, and thorough training to perform them safely and effectively. Even procedures that seem minor can lead to complications if not done correctly. Choosing a provider that you trust will be able to handle any possible complications that may arise during or after treatment is important. The following guide outlines the most important factors to consider when choosing a med spa that meets your needs and expectations.
Who is overseeing your treatment and how qualified are they?
A medical spa should be overseen by a licensed physician with deep, specialized training in the procedures offered, ideally a board-certified plastic surgeon, facial plastic surgeon or dermatologist. Take the time to verify the credentials of the medical director, supervising physician and any provider who may perform your treatment. Choosing qualified professionals helps keep you safe and improves the chances of a good outcome.
Does the med spa offer a consultation?
A thorough consultation should be offered before any treatment. This is when the provider will talk to you about your medical history and your goals to create a personalized treatment plan. They should also be transparent about risks, expected results and costs.
What services are available?
Medical spas vary in the types of services they offer. Most focus on anti-aging and skin rejuvenation treatments such as injectables, laser treatments, and chemical peels. When choosing a med spa, make sure they offer the specific procedures you’re looking for and have experience performing them safely and effectively. Be cautious of med spas offering treatments that seem overly complex, invasive or beyond the training of the staff on site.
Is the facility clean and safe?
Any medical setting needs to be a clean, well-maintained environment. The facility should follow specific policies to keep things clean and use FDA-approved equipment and products to comply with all health and safety laws. You should also be asked to sign an informed consent form before any procedure, showing the medical spa values honest communication and ethical medical practice.
What do other patients say?
Read through patient reviews and testimonials to get a sense of general customer satisfaction. Checking for positive reviews about staff professionalism, treatment quality and the overall experience. Ask your provider for before and after images to understand the med spa’s previous work and to help set your expectations. However, it’s important not to base your decisions only on social media and marketing content. Med spa provider credentials, experience and professional referrals should hold the most importance.
What technology and products do they use?
Med spas invest in high quality technology and skincare products. Ask about the brands and devices they use for treatments such as laser therapy, chemical peels and injectables.
Are treatments customized to you?
All of our bodies and skin types are unique, so your treatment should be too. Make sure your med spa customizes a plan for you that aligns with your goals, instead of a one size fits all approach.
What about aftercare?
Proper and clear aftercare instructions are essential for best outcomes and avoiding potential complications. Prior to your treatment, ask about follow up appointments, post treatment instructions, complications to look out for, and who to contact for questions and concerns.
Choosing a medical spa is an important decision that affects both your appearance and well-being. Take your time doing your research, visiting facilities, and consulting with professionals, because it is of utmost importance that your providers maintain the highest standards of care.