How to Prepare for Your Aesthetic Consultation

Consider your concerns

It can help to think about what you have noticed, when it began and how it changes over time. Describing the concern in your own words is often more useful than trying to name a specific treatment in advance.

Medical history

Relevant medical conditions — current or past — help the doctor make a full assessment. There is no need to prepare a written medical history in advance; a brief mental summary of anything that may be relevant is usually enough.

Current medicines and supplements

A list of current medicines, supplements and vitamins is useful, including anything you take occasionally. Please include the names as they appear on the packaging.

Do not stop prescribed medicine unless advised by the clinician responsible for your care.

Allergies and reactions

Please note any known allergies to medicines, topical products, latex or anaesthetics, along with any previous reactions you have experienced.

Previous aesthetic or surgical procedures

Any previous aesthetic procedures, surgical procedures or interventions relevant to the area you would like to discuss are helpful to mention. Dates, providers and any complications or reactions are useful where you can recall them.

Records and photographs

If you have relevant records, letters or personal photographs that illustrate a change you have noticed, you are welcome to bring them. They are optional and not required.

Questions to ask

• What appears to be contributing to my concern?
• What options, if any, would you consider — and what are their limits?
• What risks and side effects should I be aware of?
• What is realistic to expect and over what timeframe?
• What does recovery or follow-up typically involve?
• What would happen if I chose not to proceed?

Realistic goals

It is often more helpful to describe the outcome you are hoping for than to request a specific procedure in advance. The doctor can then consider what, if anything, may be appropriate.