It is important to seek the advice of a board certified dermatologist who has extensive training with lasers and/or related devices. When undergoing an aesthetic treatment, does it matter if you choose a medical spa or a board-certified dermatologist? Both are popular options. However, most industry experts recommend against choosing med spas.

Roy G. Geronemus, MD, from Laser & Skin Surgery Center of New York, has studied the risks of med spas. We are board-certified dermatologists who are world-renowned experts in laser treatments, cosmetic dermatology, and skin surgery. At our all-in-one center, we can safely and effectively treat all your aesthetic concerns.

Certified dermatologists are doctors who have gone through years of training. Their years of medical school, residency, and fellowship allow them to provide specialized and comprehensive treatment. Dermatologists focus on your well-being and consider your medical history.

Your dermatologist will work with you to create a treatment plan that combines your aesthetic goals and medical conditions that may affect any cosmetic work. For instance, if you have an unsightly mole removed, your dermatologist will also perform a biopsy, if clinically indicated, to ensure it’s not cancerous.

Dermatologists will also consider your age, skin sensitivities, allergies, sun damage, and skin type when performing your cosmetic procedure. For example, if you come in for Botox, your dermatologist will consider medical conditions to make sure you are receiving the appropriate treatment.

What Are Medical Spas and What Services Do They Offer?

Medical spas are facilities with a supervising healthcare provider who may or not be onsite, such as a medical doctor (MD) or registered nurse (RN). However, aestheticians usually perform most of the procedures, not medical professionals.

Med spas typically combine the best parts of traditional day spas and medical clinics, focusing on cosmetic issues. In addition, most facilities offer minimally-invasive services you can find at both day spas and dermatologists’ offices. Laws regarding limitations of non-physicians performing cosmetic procedures vary state by state.

While Botox is the most common treatment at these facilities, med spas also provide the following:

• Stretch mark reduction
• Skin tightening
• Acne reduction and treatments
• Laser tattoo removal
• Chemical peels
• Coolsculpting
• Filler injections

Risks Associated with Getting Treatments at a Medical Spa

Every procedure has some level of risk, even minimally invasive cosmetic and aesthetic procedures. As public interest in med spas and cosmetic procedures has increased, so has the research into the dangers of getting treatment at these facilities.

Unlike certified dermatologists, there is no governing body for medical spa facilities. Without oversight, there are no set standards in place for training. The lack of uniform training for aestheticians on equipment and cosmetic procedures also increases the risk of complications for patients.

Compared to procedures at a dermatologist’s office, med spa treatments have an increased chance of the following:

• Burning
• Scarring
• Change in skin color/skin discoloration

These complications are common with both laser hair removal and tattoo removal.

Any treatment you get at a med spa you can also get at a certified dermatologist with fewer risks and typically with superior technology. If complications occur during your treatment, a dermatologist’s office has the equipment, resources, and training to minimize the damage.

However, one of the most significant risks associated with getting treatments at a medical spa has nothing to do with what happens during the procedure — but what doesn’t happen. Dermatologists test for skin conditions and screen for skin cancer. Med spas do not.

When choosing a med spa, you are putting yourself at a higher risk for complications during the procedure and not having your skin condition accurately diagnosed, jeopardizing your health and well-being.

Ready to Schedule a Consultation With a Board Certified Dermatologist? Contact Laser & Skin Surgery Center of New York Today!

Are you considering a cosmetic procedure? Certified dermatologists are the way to go. At Laser & Skin Surgery Center of New York, our team of board-certified dermatologists will work with you to create a treatment plan. With access to a full research center, our world-renowned doctors will ensure you receive the treatment you deserve.

Plus, with the convenience of same-day appointments and two-convenient locations in Manhattan and Southampton, you can be on the road to your aesthetic goals whenever it’s convenient for you. We do it all, whether you want to look younger with Botox or remove your pesky hair with laser hair removal. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.