Many of us desire a youthful radiance and glow, and the demand for non-invasive interventions like Botox and dermal fillers continues to rise. These injectables are a great alternative to surgical procedures, addressing fine lines, wrinkles, volume loss, and sagging skin with minimal recovery time and cost.

However, the popularity of these treatments has presented a concerning issue – the aftermarket for counterfeit injectables. Patients seeking these treatments need to be aware of the risks associated with potentially inauthentic alternatives, which are being injected by seemingly reputable spas and offices at a surprisingly growing frequency. Counterfeit injectables not only fail to deliver the desired results, but they can also pose serious health risks!

To avoid falling victim to these aftermarket products, patients must take proactive steps to ensure the authenticity and safety of the injectables they receive. That’s why Dr. Young Paik, Shay Glisson, FNP-BC, and the Midwest Facial Plastic Surgery team want to offer you five tips for ensuring your injectables are safe and effective:

1. Professional Consultation + Custom Treatments: Trustworthy providers offer personalized treatments, ensuring the best possible results for your unique needs! Not everyone is a candidate for injectables, and you should be evaluated first. A one-size-fits-all approach can be inappropriate or even dangerous.
   
2. Certified & Licensed Injectors: Opt for board-certified facial plastic surgeons or nurse practitioners with current medical licenses. Ensure that injectors are properly licensed and work under a board-certified physician specializing in plastic surgery, facial plastic surgery, oculoplastic surgery, or dermatology. These injectors often undergo additional specialized training as well as training directly from the manufacturer of the injectable, such as Botox and Dysport, to learn how to safely and effectively provide the treatment.
   
3. In-Office Treatments: Avoid informal settings or non-reputable medical spas and opt for treatments in a certified provider’s medical office. In-home or non-medical setting services are more susceptible to non-sterile practices and administration of aftermarket products.
   
4. Beware of Low Prices: If a price seems too good to be true, it probably is. Authentic injectable pricing is generally similar across providers, and significantly lower prices may indicate aftermarket products or unauthorized sources. These products are heavily regulated by the FDA, and only licensed physicians have access to them.
   
5. Reward Points Programs: The inclusion of a rewards or points program is a good sign that the product is coming directly from the manufacturer. Look for rewards programs offered by your treatment’s manufacturer. While these earn you perks on treatments, your credits can only be validated at legitimate distributors’ offices. If signing up for a rewards program is not offered to you, ask why.

By staying informed and vigilant, patients can confidently seek out high-quality and effective treatments from trustworthy physicians and providers. At Midwest Facial Plastic Surgery, we prioritize your well-being and safety by employing skilled professionals and adhering to the highest industry standards. Visit our website today to learn more about our non-surgical enhancement procedures!