As we kick off the New Year, now is the perfect time to begin thinking about self-care and self-improvement.. If you are interested in beginning your cosmetic journey, there are several things to think and research about.

1. Know your doctor’s credentials: Knowledge and experiences are musts! Your treatment provider should be “Board Certified”, and traditionally in one of the four core specialties: plastic and reconstructive surgery, facial plastic and reconstructive surgery, dermatology and oculoplastic and reconstructive surgery.  Board certification in these specialties ensure that the doctor is extensively trained in aesthetic procedures, has developed technical prowess, knows how to design a personalized treatment based on your anatomy and concerns, AND more importantly is able to handle any potential complications and medical emergencies.  For example, the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (ABFPRS) is an elite organization with some of the most advanced facial plastic and reconstructive surgeons.  Membership requires extensive education, training and testing to be elected into this organization.  Dr. Tan is proudly a member of this organization, demonstrating commitment to continuing education, technology and surgical and non-surgical skills.
2. Set up a consultation: A big part of aesthetic treatment is building your relationship and trust with your provider. You deserve to work with someone who understands and respects your unique aesthetic goals.  Social media have made cosmetic treatments like botox and dermal filler almost TOO accessible, and it’s easy to be swayed by a ‘deal’ here or a ‘coupon’ there.  You should never lose the sight that cosmetic treatments ARE MEDICAL PROCEDURES.  Therefore there are specific medical-legal obligations and proper conducts that the medical provider has to demonstrate and disclose to you as a patient.  Any cosmetic and plastic surgery treatment can be anxiety riddled.  During your consultation, your treatment provider should educate and explain every treatment, benefits and risks, outcome expected, recovery and followup.  Proper consent should be obtained prior to any treatment or surgery.  You should feel like you have received all the information you need to make an informed decision and be empowered in your own treatment journey.
3. Set the Expectations: While all these aesthetic treatments DO make us feel kind of good, none of it replaces unrealistic expectations. Often social media and the beauty industry have us looking at ourselves with magnifying glasses.  You have to know that social media is making us ‘look better’ but feel worse.  Filter are almost too routinely used to erases any and all flaws.  In real life, flaws and imperfections create character and personality.  In the right surgeon’s hand, they can be enhanced, but not erased.  Creating highly-edited and carefully-assembled videos and photos are fun, but don’t upload them while waiting for people to scroll and validate you.  Likewise, don’t get cosmetic treatment to get validation from others.  Do this for you. Having a good mentality when you start your aesthetic treatment is the key to reaching your goals, and get you on your way to be the confident you: feeling and looking good!

Ready to start your cosmetic journey?   Set up a consultation with Dr. Tan at MD Skin Lab. We would be happy to answer any questions you may have and help you find the best skin and facial treatment for you. Contact us today to book an appointment.