Have you ever considered using the services of a med spa but weren't sure what a med spa is, where to start, or what questions to ask? With so many med spas in the DFW metroplex area, here’s what to look for to find a safe med spa that takes a patient-first approach.
What’s the difference between a day spa and a medical spa? A day spa is focused on relaxation and surface-level, traditional, “feel-good” services such as massage, manicures, pedicures, and facials and offer equipment like a steamer or a massage table. Conversely, a med spa addresses deeper-seated issues through nonsurgical aesthetic treatment. These include Botox, filler, skin rejuvenation, and resurfacing through medical-grade products and equipment such as laser devices, energy machines, and injectable appliances to treat deep lines, acne, scarring, age spots, hyperpigmentation, melasma, stretch marks, and sagging skin. From good-faith exams to transparent consultations, a med spa’s goal is to provide safe, medically appropriate care in a luxurious environment.
Before visiting any med spa, look at their website and online presence. Reviews are helpful for learning about other patients’ satisfaction. Be wary if there is no provider information, which may indicate high turnover, unlicensed personnel, or if complaints have been brought to their respective governing boards.
Additionally, ensure the front-of-house is friendly and knowledgeable. A positive work-culture and their demeanor toward guests speaks volumes about their staff. View before/after images to aid you in gaining a sense of the practice’s style and philosophy to help you decide whether they produce results that align with your aesthetic goals.
Red flags may be evident in the waiting area. If other patients look overdone, or unnatural, this may raise concern; the same may be said about the staff. Other areas of concern may include taking photos with personal cell phones versus a facility-standardized camera system, and instruments that do not come out of an autoclave bag or sterilizing solution. Syringes should never be reused, sharps containers/red bags should be visible, and practitioners should wear gloves. Credentials should be listed on each individual’s name tag; their licensure should be visible to ensure they are certified to perform the procedure. Physicians, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants evaluate, diagnose, and treat aesthetic patients in the med-spa setting. Registered nurses may follow the treatment plan determined by the licensed professionals. No estheticians should be performing injections.
During the visit, pay attention to how the staff interacts with you and others. Is the environment clean and inviting? Did you receive a proper health history and medical intake screening to determine if you are a good candidate for the treatment you are seeking? Were you provided with forms and consents that were reviewed by the practitioner?
A reputable spa should offer a complimentary consultation; they should value giving education freely to attain the best possible outcome for each individual. Practitioners should provide detailed information about available options for any treatment sought for which the patient is not a candidate.
Following your treatment, note the level of after-care instruction, post-care, and attention rendered to you. Patients ought to be provided with realistic expectations for what the treated area(s) may look like for a few days post-treatment. Someone from the spa has a duty to reach out using a HIPPA-compliant mode of communication to ensure patients receive precise and adequate care throughout their entire treatment journey.
Once you find the right Med Spa in your area, it may be the beginning of a long and happy working relationship together.
VIO Med Spa professionals are committed to patient safety and comfort. They will be eager to share education about the training and experience they have about any procedure they render, their licensure, advanced degrees, certifications, etc. Visit www.viomedspa.com/locations/plano for more information or to book a consultation.
A reputable spa should offer a complimentary consultation; they should value giving education freely to attain the best possible outcome for each individual. Practitioners should provide detailed information about available options for any treatment sought for which the patient is not a candidate.