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6 Steps for Conducting an Aesthetic Patient Consultation

Nov 07 2023

Reading Time: 3 Minutes

Author: Patricia Pezzano

A patient consultation is a key part of any medical procedure. It is a legal requirement. It is also a chance to build client rapport, understand what the patient needs, and plan the right treatment.
A good consultation helps prevent problems. It improves patient satisfaction. It also builds loyalty and leads to more referrals. Here is our step-by-step guide to running a great aesthetic consultation.

Step 1: Prepare for the Consultation

Good preparation makes a big difference. Before the consultation starts, gather the patient’s information and focus on creating an environment conducive to open communication.
Start by collecting new patient details. This includes medical history, past aesthetic procedures, allergies, and current medications. Having this ready helps you tailor your approach from the start.
Set up a comfortable, private space. This helps the patient feel safe and open. Remove distractions and have all paperwork ready in advance.

Step 2: Establish Rapport and Trust

First impressions matter. They shape how a patient sees you and your practice. Try to establish rapport and trust right away. Greet them warmly, introduce yourself, and share your credentials.
Use patient-centred communication throughout the consultation:

• Use active listening skills and show empathy for the patient’s concerns and feelings
• Ask open-ended questions and have them do most of the talking
• Avoid leading or judgmental inquiries that may make the patient feel pressured or defensive
• Convey interest and confidence through positive body language and eye contact
• Speak in simple and clear language, avoiding medical jargon or technical terms
• Address the patient by their name, and use their preferred pronouns

Step 3: Assess the Patient’s Needs and Expectations

Every patient comes in with different goals. Your job is to find out what they are.
Ask what they like and dislike about their current appearance. Be sensitive. Then ask about specific concerns and the results they want.
Do a thorough skin assessment. Look at the areas relevant to their concerns. Take photos or measurements if needed.

Step 4: Educate the Patient About the Procedure

Some patients come in with a specific treatment in mind. Others have no idea where to start. Either way, your role is to educate them.
Even if a patient has done their research, go over the benefits, risks, and expected results of their chosen treatment.
Be clear and transparent. Encourage them to ask questions and take part in the decision.
Once you agree on a procedure, explain the following:

• What the procedure involves, how it works, how long it takes, and how many sessions are required
• The expected benefits of the procedure
• Before-and-after photos of previous patients who have undergone the same or similar procedure
• Any possible risks or complications and how they can be prevented or managed
• The recovery process and any expected downtime
• Pre- and post-treatment instructions

Your patients trust you. Give them the knowledge they need to make informed decisions. That is your responsibility.

Step 5: Present a Treatment Plan

After the consultation and skin assessment, recommend the best treatment for the patient’s goals.
Review their concerns in detail. Remember that every patient is different. What works for one person may not work for another.
Work with the patient to build a plan they feel good about. Explore options, set realistic expectations, and listen to their preferences.
Discuss costs and payment options at this stage. Answer any remaining questions.

Step 6: Ask for the Patient’s Commitment and Get Informed Consent

After presenting the plan, ask for the patient’s commitment. If you have addressed all their concerns clearly, this should feel natural.
If a patient hesitates, they may still have questions. They may not feel fully heard. Take the time to find out why and address it.
The final and most important step is obtaining legal consent.
Every consultation should end with the patient fully understanding what they agreed to. Obtaining consent shows you care about their wellbeing. It also confirms you are meeting legal and ethical standards.
Some patients need time to decide. Respect that. Never push them to commit before they are ready.

Elevate Your Medical Spa’s Patient Experience With APT Injection Training

A strong consultation can be the difference between a patient choosing you or a competitor.
At APT Injection Training, we have certified thousands of medical professionals in injectable therapies. We give them the skills they need to run a successful practice. We also offer comprehensive policies and procedures binders to help with the business side. These include consent forms, pre- and post-treatment instructions, confidentiality contracts, infection control, and more.
Focus on your consultations and leave the admin to us. Contact a member of our team to learn more!