The Costco Connection - December 2017

THE POPULARIT Y of cosmetic treatments like botulinum toxin (commonly called botox) and dermal filler injections is increasing, according to reports. Although many people experience favorable results, officials are concerned about minimizing the potential risks involved.

Cosmetic dermatologist Dr. Harold Lancer
( lancerskincare.com) says, “These treatments
have been so commercialized that people tend to
forget that they are medical procedures.”
Experts like Lancer and plastic surgeon Dr.

Alan Matarasso ( alanmatarassomd.com), an American Society of Plastic Surgeons spokesman, warn against a casual attitude.

Choosing a provider

Who can legally perform cosmetic injections depends on state law. There is debate in the medical industry about who is most qualified, since precise placement is paramount and injections can be harmful if administered incorrectly.

Cosmetic injections are fee-for-service and can be performed in minutes, making them an appealing moneymaking opportunity that can attract unqualified people. Cosmetic dermatologist Dr. Karyn Grossman (grossmandermatol- ogy.com) suggests you go to someone who takes their time, because injecting filler quickly increases the risk of complications.

To err on the side of caution, choose an academic-residency-trained cosmetic dermatologist or plastic surgeon skilled at administering injections, diagnosing and treating possible complications. Technique is also imperative.

“Fillers and botulinum toxin require artistry to
make them look good,” Grossman says.

Make sure your provider is board-certified with either the American Academy of Dermatology ( aad.org) or the American Society of Plastic Surgeons ( plasticsurgery.org). You can do a name search on both websites.

Be aware that a licensed doctor like a cardiologist or gynecologist or other health care professional could take a fast-track certification course without specialized experience to turn injections into a business. Unlike with cosmetic surgery, a doctor doesn’t need to have hospital privileges or an accredited in-office operating room to perform injections.

Be wary of retail medical aesthetic clinics aiming to provide faster, cheaper, on-demand treatments. It’s unclear how competent their employees are at administering injections, even if a licensed doctor is supervising them.

Possible side effects

Possible side effects of botox include droopy eyelid, drooling or trouble breathing.

Although very unlikely, it’s possible for the effect of the drug to cause botulism-like symptoms.

Also, dermal filler carries the risk of possible side effects like infection, allergic reaction or stroke, although these side effects are considered uncommon.

Have a conversation with your provider about the risks versus benefits of treatments. Use the Food and Drug Administration ( fda.gov), American Academy of Dermatology and American Society of Plastic Surgeons websites to do research.

Assessing cost

How much you may spend for injections depends on different factors. Lancer estimates a novice might spend around ;;,;;; a year. You could spend even more than that, depending on your situation and the areas you decide to treat.

Grossman notes that initial investments tend to cost more, while touch-ups every six to ;; months tend to cost less.

All agree that price should not be the main
consideration. “You don’t want to scrimp or cut
corners here,” Lancer says. Matarasso adds,
“Saving ;;; or ;;;; on an elective procedure
that jeopardizes your health isn’t worth it.”
Grossman warns that Groupon-type offers
should be avoided. You run the risk of an inexpe-
rienced provider or an overly diluted product
that won’t last long.

Don’t trust just anyone with your health. It’s always better to be safe than sorry. Choose a cosmetic provider wisely and put qualifications before price. C

Cosmetic injections
Tips to help you avoid adverse outcomes
CONSUMERCONNECTION
AMANDA HOROWITZ

Amanda Horowitz is a writer, businesswoman and owner of Fight Back! She is the daughter of Fight Back’s founder, David Horowitz.

Fight Back! has received multiple Emmy Awards and awards from more than ;;; government and citizen groups and has helped to draft over ;; pieces of consumer-related legislation in the United States.

Horowitz can be contacted at Amanda@fightback.com.

Please include “Consumer Connection” in the subject line. She will select questions to answer in this column but regrets that unpublished questions cannot be answered individually.

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Please note that Amanda Horowitz and Fight Back! are not licensed professionals in any field. If you are seeking professional advice, you should consult with your own licensed professional. Amanda Horowitz and Fight Back! do not assume any liability or responsibility for the interpretation, application, or accuracy of any information provided.