Five Things to Ask Any Practitioner Before Booking

Choosing a cosmetic doctor is one of the most important decisions you can make when it comes to your appearance. While treatments, products and devices often receive the most attention, the practitioner behind them will usually have the biggest impact on your results.

After a decade working in cosmetic medicine, here are the five questions I would ask before booking with any cosmetic doctor.

1. What is their philosophy on ageing and aesthetics?

Every practitioner approaches cosmetic medicine differently. Some focus heavily on transformation, while others prioritise preservation and subtle enhancement.

There is no universally right approach, but it is important to find someone whose philosophy aligns with your own goals. Personally, I believe cosmetic medicine should help patients look refreshed, healthy and confident while still looking like themselves.

2. How do they approach consultations?

A good consultation should feel like an assessment rather than a sales appointment.

Your practitioner should take time to understand your concerns, assess your anatomy, discuss your goals and explain the reasoning behind any recommendations. If someone is recommending treatments before fully understanding your concerns, I would consider that a red flag.

3. Are they treating the cause or the symptom?

One of the biggest mistakes in cosmetic medicine is treating what is visible rather than understanding why it is there.

For example, a patient may present concerned about under-eye hollowness when the real issue is mid-face volume loss. Another may focus on wrinkles when poor skin quality is contributing more significantly to the overall appearance.

The best practitioners spend time identifying the root cause of a concern before recommending treatment.

4. Do they have experience managing complications?

Every medical procedure carries risk.

While complications are uncommon, it is important to know that your practitioner has the training, knowledge and experience to recognise and manage them appropriately. Experience is not just about performing treatments. It is also about knowing how to respond when things don't go to plan.

5. Would you trust their own face?

This may sound superficial, but it can be surprisingly revealing.

The way a practitioner treats themselves often reflects their aesthetic philosophy. If you love their results, their educational content and their approach to ageing, there is a good chance you will appreciate their recommendations for your own face.

Ultimately, cosmetic medicine is not about finding the latest device or trend. It is about finding a practitioner you trust. The right cosmetic doctor should make you feel informed, comfortable and confident that your treatment plan has been designed specifically for you, not for the average patient.