Glossary

Informed consent

The process in which, after the nature of the procedure, its expected benefit, possible risks and alternatives have been explained to you, you state that you understand and agree. It is usually obtained in writing; it is advisable not to sign until your questions have been answered.

Articles that mention this term

Safety CentreWho Can Perform Medical Aesthetic Treatments? What You Need to Know as a PatientWho should perform fillers, botulinum toxin and laser? The differences between physicians, specialists and beauticians, and how to check a practitioner.Reviewed by the Medical Aesthetics Expert BoardSafety CentreA 10-Point Safety Checklist for Choosing a Clinic and Physician for Medical Aesthetics10 safety questions to ask when choosing a clinic and physician before filler, botulinum toxin or another medical aesthetic procedure.Reviewed by the Medical Aesthetics Expert BoardTreatment GuidesBotulinum Toxin (Commonly Called “botox”): What It Is, Who It Suits and What to Watch ForHow botulinum toxin works, who it suits, how the procedure is done, its side effects and when to see a physician. A patient guide.Reviewed by the Medical Aesthetics Expert BoardTreatment GuidesLaser Hair Removal: How It Works, Who It Suits and What to Watch ForHow hair reduction with laser and IPL works, why skin and hair colour matter, how many sessions are needed and what the risks are. A patient guide.Reviewed by the Medical Aesthetics Expert BoardTreatment GuidesChemical Peels: What They Are, Who They Suit and What Recovery InvolvesThe differences between superficial, medium and deep chemical peels, recovery times, risk of pigment spots, who needs caution and aftercare advice.Reviewed by the Medical Aesthetics Expert BoardTreatment GuidesPRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma): How Effective Is It for Skin and Hair?What PRP is, how it is prepared, what the evidence says for hair loss and skin, and who should avoid it. A plain, referenced guide for patients.Reviewed by the Medical Aesthetics Expert BoardGuidesA Guide for First-Time Medical Aesthetic PatientsBefore your first medical aesthetic procedure: deciding, realistic expectations, choosing a physician, consent, aftercare and emotional readiness.Reviewed by the Medical Aesthetics Expert BoardTreatment GuidesHIFU (High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound): How Effective Is Non-Surgical Tightening?How non-surgical skin tightening with HIFU works, who it suits, how noticeable the results are and what the risks are. A patient guide.Reviewed by the Medical Aesthetics Expert Board

Full glossary

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