How to get the most out of aesthetic procedure consultations

Published 22nd Jul 2024 by Michelle Duffield

Dr Kevin Kit BDS BSc (Hons) explains the consultation standard operating procedure to ensure patients have consistent experiences and positive outcomes

Honest objectivity delivered with care, kindness and compassion fosters trust, the foundation of a healthy, positive relationship. This Consultation Standard Operating Procedure is designed to ensure patients have a consistent experience

Aesthetic consultations: manners and setting the scene

First impressions matter. How you greet a patient and your mannerisms shape their perception of you and the clinic.

Patients may feel anxious during their first visit, so it's crucial to create a comfortable and respectful environment. 

Understanding individual communication styles, cultural differences, and personal motivations is essential.

How to make aesthetic patients feel comfortable

Orienting patients to the appointment provides clarity and reduces anxiety. 

Explain what will happen during the appointment to manage their expectations and ensure they feel comfortable and respected. 

Mindfully collecting information helps tailor the appointment to the patient’s needs. Listen and observe carefully, providing a judgement-free space for the patient to share honestly.

Photography

Standardised photography is crucial for documenting changes and treatments. It helps in maintaining consistent records and supports insurance requirements. 

Clinical assessment

A collaborative clinical assessment ensures a comprehensive understanding of the patient’s needs. 

Approach this with sensitivity and professionalism, focusing on the patient’s best interests and wellbeing and thoughts and feelings rather than just the treatment itself.

Treatment planning

The purpose of the treatment planning stage is to offer clear options with a carefully designed personal approach. 

Providing patients with a clear understanding of where they are, where they want to be, and how to get there fosters trust and cooperation.

Summarise how and why the treatment options suggested address the points considered during the clinical assessment. 

Discuss the treatment, pros and cons, commitments required, downtime, risks, benefits, and longevity. This comprehensive discussion helps the patient make informed decisions.

It is common to discuss prices at this stage. However, it is important that the why, what, and how long is discussed first to provide mindful clarity about what the patient is paying for, ensuring their best interests come first.

Formulate and formalise the plan considering three main aspects: intended completion date, social commitments, and budget. 

Start with the end in mind, allowing time for settling and optimal outcomes, taking social commitments into consideration. 

Discuss budget openly to dictate the pace of the treatment journey and optimise outcomes.

Write down the suggestions and encourage a period of reflection to help the patient make mindful decisions about their care. 

The intention is to facilitate the patient to make informed, thoughtful decisions about their care, ensuring they feel respected and empowered throughout the process.

Assessment, planning, mindful communication, and safe application of the most appropriate product improves the rate of success and reduces risks of less optimal results.

My preferred range of dermal fillers is Stylage, which offers a healthy portfolio to serve all indications, ensuring authentic beauty.

 

This is a sponsored post in association with Vivacy.

Michelle Duffield

Michelle Duffield

Published 22nd Jul 2024

Michelle is the editorial assistant to Aesthetic Medicine magazine.

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