Finding a cosmetic doctor can be a daunting process. Not only is there the internal debate over whatever treatment you’re considering (the risks, the costs, the recovery) but there’s also the issue of finding a practitioner you can trust and who is best qualified to provide the results you’re looking for.
Having met many a cosmetic doctor, not only interviewing them on new products and techniques but also personally in the chair, having treatments such as Botox and Profhilo, I feel well-equipped to offer some of the tidbits I’ve picked up along the way, which might make the process a little more familiar and hopefully less daunting for you…
1. There’s no sugar coating.
Cosmetic doctors have a tendency to see your face as an anatomical structure, analysing ratios and assessing the symmetry of both sides, which admittedly has its uses. In fact, it’s this approach and its attention to detail that often delivers the best results. The problem is, it’s not exactly the most palatable when on the receiving end.
Our faces are much more than anatomy. They’re our entire identity, inherently tied up with our self-esteem and confidence. So when a doctor tells you your lip ratio is wrong and that it should be 60:40 bottom to top, and yours is 70:30, it’s hard not to take offense.
In my experience, bedside manner isn’t a cosmetic doctor’s strong suit, so don’t expect any sugar coating or solace. Go in to your appointment with a thick skin, know exactly why you’re there and what you want them to look at, and never make the mistake of saying, “What else should I consider?” – unless, of course, you’re looking to take on a whole throng of new insecurities.
2. You are in control.
It’s all too easy to forget that, ultimately, you are always in control, especially when in the company of a revered doctor, who is using terminology you don’t understand and wielding a two-inch needle. But you are. You can – and you should – say if you’re uncomfortable or uncertain about what’s happening. And you should ask questions – what are the brands they use? What risks are there? What happens if you have a problem, or if you need advice after your appointment? Is there a follow-up session? Can you see examples of their previous work? If they are unable or unwilling to answer you, leave.
3. There’s always an “oh ?!*@” moment.
I’ve never had an appointment where at some point during or soon after I didn’t think, “Oh ?!*@, I’ve made a big mistake.” This may be because I’m a hypochondriac, but it’s also because it’s always darkest before the dawn. If you’ve had an injectable treatment, you could be swollen and sometimes bruised, or if you’ve had a laser treatment or a chemical peel, you could be red and sore. Just stay calm and remain patient. It’s at this point you’ll want to be able to reassure yourself that you did all your research, asked all the questions you needed to and fully trust your doctor.
4. Never ask for one doctor’s opinion on another doctor.
There’s some weird animosity in the world of cosmetic doctors, where no one seems to respect one another and they’re all too happy to offer up unfounded criticism. Maybe it’s because they want the other’s business. Or maybe it’s a pride thing, each thinking their own skills are superior. But if you’re looking for an honest and reliable opinion on another doctor, ask the patients rather than their fellow doctors.
5. It’s a male-dominated industry.
Obviously. Because isn’t everything? Thing is, I often resent hearing a man’s analysis of my face and having him prescribe a treatment that adheres to his ideal of beauty – even when I’ve sought him out and explicitly asked for it. I know it doesn’t make sense, but it’s for this reason that I’ve found myself more comfortable with a female doctor. This won’t be the case for everyone, it’s just something to consider.
6. It’s not glam.
I used to think of Harley Street as a glamorous place, but that was before I actually went there. In reality, it’s full of swollen-faced people scurrying around in dark glasses and fuddy-duddy waiting rooms with thick carpet and little natural light. But it’s not just Harley Street that lacks an air of elegance – it’s the whole industry.
I assumed that since cosmetic treatments came with a high-end price tag, they would include all the usual high-end trimmings. I had visions of cucumber water, fluffy spa beds and soothing background music. The reality is more along the lines of a dentist’s chair and a water cooler. Don’t expect to be pampered – you’re at a doctor’s office, not a spa retreat.
