AT A GLANCE
A firmness consultation starts with the area, the change you have noticed and your expectations. Skin laxity, loss of volume and changes in contour are not interchangeable treatment goals. Your clinician needs to assess what is contributing to your concern.
Pinpoint the change
Tell the doctor where you notice the change and when it became apparent. Is your concern a skin fold, a change around the jawline or a difference in facial fullness? Bring previous treatment dates and explain whether your weight or routine has changed.
A photograph can help you describe a concern, but it does not determine tissue depth or treatment suitability.
Compare approaches, not promises
Jcell lists Ultherapy Prime and Thermage FLX. These use ultrasound and radiofrequency respectively. The technology names alone do not decide which, if either, fits your concern.
The American Academy of Dermatology explains that nonsurgical tightening produces more modest changes than surgical lifting. Ask what degree of change is realistic for you rather than expecting one procedure to reproduce another.
- What is causing the change in this area?
- What could the proposed treatment change, and what will it not address?
- Would a different approach or no procedure be reasonable?
Include recovery in your decision
Discuss discomfort, possible complications, the time needed to assess a result and whether another visit is likely. Mention planned flights and events before fixing a treatment date.
If a combination is proposed, ask why each part is needed and how the sequence affects recovery and cost. More procedures are not automatically a better plan.
Your questions
Should I book a device or a consultation first?
You can enquire about a device, but the treatment decision should follow assessment of your concern, medical history and expectations.
Will a nonsurgical treatment give a surgical facelift result?
Nonsurgical and surgical approaches have different capabilities and risks. Ask your doctor what degree of change is realistic for your particular concern.
Sources: American Academy of Dermatology: skin tightening.
Discuss your skin concerns and treatment options with your clinician.