Although receiving wrinkle-reducing BOTOX® Cosmetic injections can be a fairly quick treatment—the procedure typically takes less than 10 minutes in most cases—the standards for choosing a BOTOX® administrator should be anything but short. Cosmetic injectable treatments, such as BOTOX®, require precise application from trained, certified, and skilled medical providers that are proficient in facial anatomy and facial aesthetics. This requires a unique understanding of how the injectable formulas work, the effect they have on the muscles associated with facial expressions, and the potential benefits as well as risks connected to treatment.
While it is important to note that regulations may vary by state, the following medical professionals are generally the most qualified to administer BOTOX® treatment for cosmetic reasons:
- Plastic Surgeons, ideally those that are certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery
- Properly licensed Doctors of Medicine (MD)
- Physician assistants (PAs) and nurse practitioners (NPs) who have received specific training as injectors
- Registered nurses (RNs), usually with additional training and under the supervision of a physician
While aestheticians and clinical assistants can certainly be qualified to perform a number of non-invasive cosmetic treatments—and they may even be called upon to assist with pre- and post-procedure care during injectable appointments—they typically do not have the appropriate qualifications to safely and effectively administer injectables themselves. Additionally, licensed medical professionals are the only providers that should be able to purchase regulated substances like BOTOX® and other injectables through credible and regulated pharmaceutical supply chains.
BOTOX® patients should seek out licensed medical practitioners who have completed the appropriate training courses from an accredited institute and received their certifications. Before receiving BOTOX® injections, it is imperative to review the provider’s licensure, state board and liability insurance, and degree of experience with the given procedure.
To learn more about neurotoxin treatments like BOTOX® Cosmetic, our practice invites you to contact us today to schedule a consultation with our Greensboro plastic surgeon, Dr. Mary Ann Contogiannis.
