Popular Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best treatments for reducing fine lines and wrinkles?
The best approach often combines several treatments. Neurotoxins (like Botox) relax muscles to smooth dynamic wrinkles (those caused by movement). Dermal fillers restore lost volume and smooth static wrinkles (present at rest). Other options include laser resurfacing and microneedling to stimulate collagen production and improve skin texture over time.
Does an aesthetic procedure require much downtime or recovery?
It varies widely based on the procedure. Non-ablative laser treatments, light chemical peels, and injectables often have minimal downtime (a few hours of redness, or minor bruising/swelling for 1-3 days). More aggressive treatments, like ablative lasers or deep peels, may require 5-10 days of social downtime for the skin to heal and shed.
How often should I get a full-body skin cancer screening?
For most healthy adults with no history of skin cancer, a yearly full-body check by a dermatologist is recommended. If you have a personal or family history of skin cancer, a high number of moles, or a lot of sun damage, your dermatologist may recommend check-ups every 3, 4, or 6 months.
What is the most important step in my daily skincare routine?
Daily Sun Protection (SPF) is widely considered the most crucial step. Using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher every morning prevents UV damage, which is the primary cause of premature aging, wrinkles, sunspots, and skin cancer.
How can I choose a safe and qualified provider for my aesthetic treatment?
Look for a board-certified Dermatologist (MD/DO) or a board-certified Plastic Surgeon. These professionals have extensive training in skin anatomy and complications management. Always confirm their certification and experience specifically with the procedure you are considering.
Why is getting a blood test considered so important, even when I feel healthy?
Blood tests offer the most objective and detailed snapshot of your internal health. They are vital for early detection of potential issues like nutritional deficiencies, hormonal imbalances, infections, or markers for chronic diseases (like high cholesterol or pre-diabetes) before you experience noticeable symptoms.
Do I need to fast (not eat) before my blood test?
Preparation depends entirely on the specific tests ordered. For common tests like a lipid panel (cholesterol) or fasting glucose (blood sugar), you usually must fast for 8 to 12 hours (consuming only water). Always follow the specific instructions given by your doctor or our clinic staff to ensure your results are accurate.
How long does the actual blood collection take, and is it painful?
The entire collection process is very fast, usually taking less than 5 minutes. Our professional phlebotomists are highly trained to ensure minimal discomfort. You might feel a quick pinch or prick when the needle is inserted, but the feeling is brief.
How long will it take to get my results back?
The turnaround time varies based on the type of test. Routine screens may be available within 24 to 48 hours. Highly specialized tests may take longer. We will always inform you of the expected waiting period when your sample is taken.
What should I do once I receive my blood test results?
Your results are meant for clinical interpretation. You should always schedule a follow-up consultation with your requesting doctor or a specialist. They will explain what the values mean in the context of your overall health, history, and current symptoms, and recommend the appropriate next steps.
How should I prepare for my consultation to make the most of the time?
To maximize your appointment, prepare a brief list of your main symptoms (when they started, how often they occur), your current medications (including supplements), and any relevant medical history or questions you have. The more organized you are, the more time the doctor can spend on diagnosis and planning.
What is the difference between a general consultation and seeing a specialist?
A general consultation with a GP focuses on overall health, managing acute common illnesses, preventative advice, and determining if a referral is needed. A specialist consultation is focused solely on a specific area (like cardiology or dermatology) to diagnose and manage complex or chronic issues within that field.
Will the doctor provide a treatment plan in the first consultation?
Often, yes. The doctor will usually discuss immediate options, which may include prescribing medication, recommending lifestyle changes, or suggesting further diagnostic steps like blood tests or scans. If a diagnosis is complex, the first visit may focus on initial testing to inform the treatment plan.
What information should I expect to receive after the consultation?
You should expect to receive a clear summary of the diagnosis (or working diagnosis), detailed information on any prescribed medication (including dosage and side effects), and a plan for follow-up care or testing. Don't hesitate to ask for a printout or digital summary of the key points.
What happens if I need to cancel or reschedule my appointment?
We require you to notify the clinic as soon as possible, typically at least 24 hours in advance. This allows us to offer the slot to another patient who needs care. Late cancellations or no-shows may incur a fee, as detailed in our clinic policy.
How does laser hair removal work?
The laser emits a concentrated beam of light that is absorbed by the pigment (melanin) in the hair follicle. This light energy is converted to heat, which damages the follicle and inhibits future hair growth.
Does the treatment hurt?
Most clients describe the sensation as feeling like a warm pinprick or a small rubber band snapping against the skin. Discomfort is brief, and modern equipment often uses built-in cooling systems to minimize any sting.
How long does a session take?
The duration depends entirely on the size of the area being treated. Small areas like the upper lip can take just a few minutes, while large areas like full legs or a full back can take 60 minutes or more.
What areas of the body can be treated?
Almost any area of the body can be safely treated, including the legs, arms, bikini area, underarms, back, and face (excluding the immediate eye area).
How should I prepare for my ultrasound appointment?
Preparation varies depending on the area being scanned. For abdominal scans (like liver or gallbladder), you may be asked to fast (not eat) for several hours. For pelvic or bladder scans, you may need a full bladder. We will provide you with specific instructions when you book your appointment.
Does an ultrasound use radiation, and is it safe?
No, ultrasound technology uses high-frequency sound waves to create images, not ionizing radiation (like X-rays or CT scans). It is considered a very safe and non-invasive diagnostic tool, even for sensitive procedures like monitoring pregnancy.
What happens during the procedure?
You will typically lie down, and a technician (sonographer) will apply a clear, water-based gel to the area being examined. They will then gently press and move a handheld device called a transducer across the skin. The transducer sends and receives sound waves to create the images in real time.
Is the procedure painful or uncomfortable?
Ultrasounds are generally painless. You may feel slight pressure from the transducer as the sonographer moves it to get a clear view, and the gel may feel cool. If you need to have a full bladder for the scan, that may cause minor discomfort.
How long does it take to get the results?
The scan itself usually takes between 15 and 45 minutes. The sonographer records the images, which are then reviewed and interpreted by a radiologist or specialist doctor. Your final, official report is usually sent to your referring physician within 1 to 3 business days.
Why are IV Drips and Injections used instead of just taking oral vitamins?
The main benefit is 100% bioavailability. Bypassing the digestive system allows vitamins and fluids to enter the bloodstream directly, achieving much higher and faster therapeutic concentrations than oral supplements, which are partially lost during digestion. This is vital for patients with malabsorption issues.
Are high-dose Vitamin Drips safe for everyone, especially if I have a health condition?
No. While generally safe for healthy people, they carry risks like infection or vein inflammation. More critically, high fluid volume or certain nutrients (like Potassium or Magnesium) can be dangerous for individuals with underlying kidney disease or heart conditions and should only be administered under strict medical supervision.
Do I need a blood test to confirm a deficiency before getting an IV Drip or Injection?
Yes, ideally. For evidence-based medicine, a qualified medical provider should confirm a genuine nutrient deficiency (e.g., Vitamin B12 or D) with a blood test before administering high-dose therapy. This ensures the treatment is necessary and the dosage is appropriate, preventing potential toxicity.
How long does the energy boost or "feeling better" from an IV Drip usually last?
The immediate "boost" often comes from rapid hydration and a rapid spike in water-soluble vitamins. This feeling is generally temporary, lasting from a few hours to a couple of days. Your body quickly eliminates excess water-soluble vitamins, turning the benefit into what doctors sometimes call "expensive urine."
Is there strong scientific evidence that Vitamin Drips improve general wellness, immunity, or cure hangovers?
No. While they can quickly rehydrate, there is limited to no strong, large-scale scientific evidence to support claims that IV drips, when used purely for elective wellness purposes, significantly boost the immune system, sustainably increase energy, or cure hangovers in otherwise healthy individuals.