Although aesthetic medicine focuses on enhancing the patient’s appearance, it also has the potential to significantly affect that patient’s health. Arizona residents have seen some news stories lately about unqualified providers performing aesthetic services, such as injections and laser treatments. This puts patients at risk, and it’s one reason why the state has initiated new efforts to improve patient safety in aesthetic medicine.
Understanding the Risks with Unqualified Providers
The FDA regulates the use of medical and aesthetic lasers. This may be one reason why it’s commonly thought that laser treatments aren’t at all risky. And indeed, in the hands of a trained, qualified provider, laser treatments are quite safe. But when an improperly trained or untrained provider uses aesthetic lasers, the patient is at risk of scarring, blisters, and burn injuries. There’s also a potential risk with the use of local anesthetics, which are often applied prior to administering a laser treatment. In Arizona, the Arizona Radiation Regulatory Agency (ARRA) is responsible for protecting public health and safety by regulating, inspecting and licensing the use and sources of radiation statewide. One way to protect yourself is to make sure the laser technician performing your procedure is a Certified Laser Technician by the ARRA. Many of the laser providers in Arizona are not certified. Check the certification of your provider for the safest and most effective care.
Becoming a Self-Advocate
Every patient can be his or her own advocate. Do your research. Only go to medical practice that have well-educated and thoroughly trained providers. The providers must be a certified laser technician by the ARRA. Don’t be shy about asking to see proof of the provider’s licensure and certifications. Before receiving any laser treatments, ask whether the medical director is currently on site. If any staff member seems hesitant to answer your questions, that’s your cue to look for a more transparent plastic surgery clinic.
At Maloney Plastic Surgery, our patients’ safety and well-being are our highest priorities. We welcome inquiries from our patients about our medical director, licensure, and certifications. Call our plastic surgery office in Tucson at (520) 298-2330 to request our next available appointment.
