No longer just for the rich and famous, it seems like injectables, laser treatments, and skin-perfecting procedures are being offered on every corner (and in every shopping centre).
Even with recent overhauls to the cosmetic industry, there are still reports of dodgy practitioners passing themselves off as professionals, proving as a timely reminder that selecting the clinic itself is as important as choosing the right treatment.
“When considering cosmetic treatments, safety should always come before aesthetics,” says Dr Phoebe Jones, a cosmetic physician and founder of the Sydney clinic, Beauty by Doctor.
“A reputable clinic will prioritise your wellbeing, provide honest advice, and help you achieve the best results safely and ethically.”
Whether you’re considering anti-wrinkle injections, dermal fillers, or skin rejuvenation treatments, finding a clinic that puts safety first is key. Here’s what you need to know before booking your next appointment.
What you should look for in a cosmetic clinic
“When choosing a clinic, the most important factors to consider are the qualifications and experience of the practitioners, clinic safety, and transparency in processes,” advises Dr Jones.
“Ensure the clinic has a proper website listing the names of the doctors and nurses who provide treatments. If this information is not available, it may be a red flag.”
In Australia, cosmetic injectables can only be administered by a registered medical professional – either a doctor, dentist, registered nurse, or enrolled nurse. You can double check their registration by searching their name on the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) website, to ensure they have the necessary qualifications.
While social media before and after images can be a powerful motivator, they shouldn’t be taken as gospel. Same goes for other online advertising.
“Google reviews [and social media] can provide insights into other patients’ experiences, but they should be considered alongside other factors,” says Dr Jones.
“Word of mouth remains one of the most reliable ways to find a reputable clinic. Recommendations from friends or family members who have had good results can be invaluable.”
If possible, schedule a consultation beforehand to check out the clinic. If you’re uncomfortable or unsure at any point you can cancel or get a second opinion, just like you would with any other appointment.
Red flags that might mean a clinic is worth avoiding
Not all cosmetic clinics uphold the same standards. According to Dr Jones, there are several warning signs that a clinic may not be up to scratch, including:
- A lack of transparency. The practitioners are not listed on the website, or the clinic has no website or social media presence.
- Aggressive sales tactics. A decent clinic will never pressure patients into treatments. If they’re trying to upsell things you didn’t ask for, be wary.
- An unhygienic environment. The reception area and treatment rooms should be clean and well-maintained.
- Unprofessional staff. The team should be presentable and knowledgeable about the treatments they offer.
- No detailed medical history taken. A proper consultation should include a thorough assessment of medical history.
- A lack of informed consent. Before obtaining your written consent, the clinic should clearly explain the treatment, its risks, and expected results.
- Unclear pricing. Costs should be transparent, with no hidden fees. This is not the time to try and save a few bucks.
- No aftercare instructions or follow-up. Trustworthy clinics provide clear post-treatment care guidance and offer follow-up appointments.
- No after-hours support. If a clinic does not provide an emergency contact number for adverse reactions, it may not prioritise patient safety.
Do you need to see a doctor, or can a nurse perform cosmetic procedures?
In Australia, both doctors and registered nurses can perform certain cosmetic treatments.
“For cosmetic injectables, the minimum qualification required is a nurse or doctor. However, nurses must have a prescription from a doctor to administer injectables, meaning that every patient must have a consultation with a doctor before treatment. This consultation can be done in person or via video call and must be done before the patient is treated,” explains Dr Jones.
Here’s a simple guide to who can perform what:
Doctors: Only registered medical practitioners can prescribe Schedule 4 medications (such as anti-wrinkle injections) and perform more complex procedures.
Nurses: Registered nurses can administer injectables and some laser treatments but must operate under the supervision of a registered medical practitioner.
Dermal therapists: They can perform skin treatments like lasers and peels but are not authorised to administer injectables.
Procedures you should not visit a cosmetic clinic for
Cosmetic clinics are not the place you go under the knife. Major surgeries including breast augmentation, liposuction, rhinoplasty, and facelifts should only be performed in a hospital by a specialist surgeon.
For these procedures, you should find a fully qualified plastic surgeon who is a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS).
