The Consultation
Why consultations are so important when it comes to safety in aesthetics
While in the right hands and with the right products, aesthetic treatments can provide excellent results, patient safety must remain the highest priority.
A thorough consultation process is essential to ensure that treatments are appropriate, risks are minimised, and ethical standards are upheld.
In this article, we explore the key aspects of consultation in medical aesthetics, including identifying red flags, knowing when to refuse treatment, maintaining accurate records, and signposting patients when necessary.
Identifying red flags during consultation
Aesthetic practitioners must be vigilant in identifying red flags during patient consultations. These may indicate that a patient is unsuitable for a particular treatment or may require further assessment. Key red flags include:
- Unrealistic expectations – Patients expecting extreme or unachievable results may be dissatisfied with the outcome, leading to potential complaints or psychological distress.
- Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) – If a patient exhibits signs of BDD, such as excessive preoccupation with perceived flaws or dissatisfaction despite previous treatments, they should be referred to a mental health professional before proceeding.
- Medical contraindications – A full medical history must be taken to identify any contraindications such as allergies, bleeding disorders, autoimmune conditions, or medication interactions that may increase the risk of complications.
- Frequent treatment requests – Patients who seek repeated treatments within short timeframes may be developing an unhealthy dependency on aesthetic procedures.
- Pressure or coercion – If a patient appears to be under pressure from another person to undergo treatment, it is essential to ensure they are making an independent decision.
Knowing when to say “no”
Ethical and responsible aesthetic practitioners must recognise when to refuse treatment. Saying “no” is often necessary to protect the patient and maintain professional integrity. Scenarios where treatment should be declined include:
- When the treatment is not in the patient’s best interest
- When a patient has a medical or psychological condition that makes the procedure unsafe
- If the patient is underage or lacks the capacity to provide informed consent
- When the practitioner lacks the necessary training or experience for the requested procedure
- If the patient is exhibiting aggressive or threatening behaviour.
Declining treatment should always be done professionally, and compassionately, with a clear explanation to the patient about why the procedure is not appropriate.
The importance of accurate record-keeping and note-taking
Accurate documentation is a fundamental aspect of patient safety and the consultation process in medical aesthetics. Proper record-keeping provides legal protection for both the practitioner and the patient while ensuring continuity of care. Essential aspects of medical record-keeping include:
- A detailed medical history and patient assessment
- Documentation of the consultation, including treatment goals, risks, and alternative options discussed
- Informed consent forms signed by the patient
- Before-and-after photographs to track treatment progress
- Clear documentation of the treatment plan, including products used, dosages, and injection sites
- Notes on follow-up care and any complications that arise post-treatment.
Maintaining well-organised records ensures that practitioners can justify their clinical decisions and provide safe, ethical care.
Signposting patients when they are not suitable for treatment
When a patient is not suitable for an aesthetic procedure, it is crucial to direct them to the appropriate alternative services. Signposting helps maintain ethical standards and ensures that patients receive the care they need. This may include:
- Referring patients with suspected BDD or significant psychological concerns to mental health professionals
- Advising patients with skin conditions to see a dermatologist instead of proceeding with aesthetic treatments
- Directing patients with medical contraindications to their general practitioner for further evaluation
- Suggesting alternative non-invasive skincare treatments when injectables are not suitable.
Signposting should always be done with sensitivity, ensuring that the patient feels supported and informed rather than rejected.
Conclusion
The consultation process in medical aesthetics is a critical component of patient safety. Identifying red flags, knowing when to refuse treatment, maintaining meticulous records, and signposting patients to appropriate care providers are all essential responsibilities of an ethical, aesthetic practitioner. Prioritising patient welfare not only protects individuals from unnecessary risks but also upholds the reputation and credibility of the medical aesthetics industry. Practitioners who conduct thorough consultations will foster trust with their patients and contribute to safer, more ethical aesthetic medicine practices.