What qualifications does my provider hold for this procedure?

Before anyone treats your face or body, you want to know what training stands behind the hands. The short version: ask, and ask specifically.

What to ask when a physician treats you

The Medical Board of California gives the question in its own words: "Know who will perform the procedure and their licensing status: If a physician is performing the treatment, you should ask about their qualifications. Is the doctor a specialist in these procedures? Is he or she board certified in an appropriate specialty?"

Those are three separate questions. A clear answer to each one is better than a general reassurance.

What the FDA adds for fillers

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration gives a matching test for dermal filler. In its words, the agency "advises you work with a licensed health care provider who is experienced in injecting dermal fillers, knowledgeable about fillers, anatomy, managing complications, and most importantly, tells you about the risks and benefits before receiving treatment."

By that standard, a provider who skips the risks and benefits has missed the item the FDA ranks first.

Questions for your appointment

Take these with you in West Sacramento:

• Who will perform my treatment, and what is their license?
• If a physician, what is their specialty and board certification?
• How much experience do you have with this exact procedure?
• What do you do if a complication develops?
• Will you go over the risks and benefits before I decide?

Where to check further

Two California pages are worth a look. For medical spa material, the Medical Board of California offers its resources page. The California Board of Registered Nursing keeps a Nursing Practice page for readers who want the nursing side.

What a good answer sounds like

You can usually tell by the pace of the reply. Listen for a direct answer to each question and room for a follow-up.