Disclaimer: This page is general educational information, not medical advice. Treatments described here are medical procedures with potential risks; candidacy, results and recovery vary from person to person. Consult a qualified, licensed provider before any treatment.
Overview
A consultation is your opportunity to discuss goals, learn about options and evaluate a provider before committing. Many practices offer consultations at no charge, while others charge a fee that may be credited to treatment.
Prepare by noting your goals, medications, health conditions, previous treatments and budget. Photos of results you like can help, but remember results vary by individual.
A good consultation includes honest discussion of what's realistic, risks, costs and alternatives, without pressure to book immediately.
What to expect, step by step
- Discussion of goals and concerns.
- Health history review.
- Skin or facial assessment.
- Explanation of options and expected results.
- Pricing and scheduling information.
Things worth considering
- Avoid pressure tactics.
- Ask about credentials.
- Get written pricing.
- Understand package terms.
- Consider getting more than one opinion.
Local notes for San Jose
In California, rules about who can perform laser and other medical aesthetic procedures, and under what supervision, are set by the state. Asking about supervision and credentials is a reasonable part of any consultation.
We take inquiries from San Jose, Santa Clara, Sunnyvale, Campbell, Milpitas.
Before you send an inquiry
- Be ready to describe your skin type and any history of scarring, pigmentation changes or cold sores.
- List your medications, supplements, allergies and relevant medical history so you can share them during a consultation.
- Mention if you are pregnant, nursing or planning a pregnancy, since many treatments are postponed in that case.
- Note any previous cosmetic treatments, including when and where they were done.
- Think about timing, including upcoming events, travel or sun exposure, since some treatments need recovery time.
When to keep looking
- Prices that seem far below typical without an explanation.
- No written consent form explaining risks, alternatives and aftercare.
- No clear answer about who will perform the procedure and what their credentials are.
- Unwillingness to name the products or devices being used.
- Pressure to buy large packages or prepay for many sessions at the first visit.
What to ask before you commit
- What results are realistic?
- Who will perform treatment?
- What's your cancellation policy?
- What's the total cost?
- What are my options?
Frequently asked
- Is a consultation required?
- Most practices require one before treatment.
- Are consultations free?
- Policies vary by practice.
- What should I bring?
- A list of medications, health history and questions.
Related topics
- Vein Treatments: An overview of cosmetic treatments for spider veins and visible vessels, and questions to ask a provider.
- Laser Hair Removal: How laser hair removal works, why multiple sessions are needed, skin type considerations and questions to ask a clinic.
- Pigmentation and Sun Damage: Treatment options for sun spots, uneven tone and other pigmentation concerns, and questions to ask a provider.