Facial Aesthetic Procedures: What to Expect Before, During, and After Treatment

New to the world of facial aesthetics? I remember all too well how it felt going for my first appointment. Am I doing the right thing?, What will people think? Will I look 'frozen'? It's a decision which is very personal.

As we mature, we are often socialised to conform, follow collective norms, and comply with societal expectations. However, I have consistently advocated for individuals to pursue their own desires, focusing on their personal journey rather than the actions of others. This principle is particularly pertinent when considering the decision to undergo facial aesthetic treatments, a deeply personal and individual choice. As a healthcare professional, my ethical foundation is grounded in providing a non-judgmental, patient-centered approach, which is reflected in every consultation and treatment I offer.

1. Before treatment

   Initial Consultation

   • Personalised Discussion: You’ll begin with a consultation where we will discuss your goals and expectations. This is your opportunity to express what you hope to achieve, whether it’s smoother skin, enhanced facial features, or a more youthful appearance.

   • Medical History Review: I will discuss your medical history, allergies, medications, and any previous aesthetic treatments you may have had to ensure your safety and suitability for the procedure.

   • Skin and Facial Assessment: I will assess your skin type, facial anatomy, and the areas you’d like to address to determine the best course of action and treatment plan.

   • Your bespoke treatment plan: I will send you a bespoke plan detailing treatments, costs and expected 'upkeep'.

     
     

2. During treatment

   • Skin preparation: Cleansing the skin before a treatment helps prevent bacteria or impurities from being introduced into the skin, which reduces the risk of infection. I use hospital grade products, and maintain the highest infection prevention and control standards.

   • Anti-wrinkle Injections:

     • Using a fine needle, the product is injected into targeted muscles. The toxin temporarily relaxes the muscles, which helps reduce the appearance of wrinkles, such as crow’s feet, frown lines, and forehead lines.

     • The toxin typically takes about 15-30 minutes to administer, depending on the number of areas being treated. There is usually minimal discomfort during the injections.

   • Dermal Filler Injections:

     • Dermal fillers are injected into specific areas of the face to restore volume, smooth out wrinkles, or enhance contours (e.g., lips, cheeks).

     • The injection process for fillers can take 15-30 minutes, depending on the areas being treated. Some dermal fillers contain lidocaine (a numbing agent) to minimise discomfort.

     • I then carefully massage the area to ensure an even distribution of the filler and a natural look.

   
   

3. After treatment

   • Anti- wrinkle injections: After injection, I will provide an aftercare card. You should avoid touching the area, exercising and heat (e.g sauna/steamrooms) for 24 hours. I also recommend you avoid alcohol for the first 24 hours. There is minimal downtime and you can continue to go about your day as usual. My contact details are provided so you can contact for advice at any time. Patience is key- results take up to 2 weeks to show and at this stage, I invite you back for a review.

   • Dermal Fillers: After dermal filler injections, you may experience some mild swelling, redness, or bruising at the injection sites. Applying ice can help alleviate these effects. Avoid pressing or massaging the treated areas to ensure settling of the filler. Again, advice around exercising, exposure to heat and consumption of alcohol should all be considered. My aftercare card is provided for further advice.

     
     

   If you are curious and want to talk, please do contact me.