What concerns can aesthetic care address?
People seek aesthetic care for many reasons, from wanting to look as healthy as they feel to repairing years of sun exposure. Common concerns include:
- Fine lines and wrinkles
- Sun damage, age spots and uneven skin tone
- Dull or rough skin texture
- Changes in skin with aging
Why start with your family doctor?
Your skin is connected to your overall health. Some changes in skin or appearance can be linked to medical conditions, medicines, hormones or sun exposure. A doctor who already knows your health history can make sure a treatment is safe for you and can spot anything that needs medical attention first, such as a mole that should be checked.
Every cosmetic treatment has benefits, limits and possible side effects. We give you honest information about what a treatment can and cannot do, so you can make a decision that feels right.
What happens at an aesthetic consultation?
Your first visit is a conversation. We talk about what you would like to change, look at your skin, and review your health, medicines and allergies. Then we discuss which options may fit your goals, including daily skin care and sun protection, which are the foundation of healthy-looking skin at any age.
If a treatment is not a good fit for you, or would be better handled by a dermatologist or plastic surgeon, we will tell you and help you find the right next step.
Who will provide aesthetic care?
Lena, a nurse practitioner student and Dr. Le's wife, plans to join the practice to provide cosmetic care once she finishes her training. In the meantime, call us to ask which aesthetic services are currently available at our Bluefield clinic.
How do you choose a safe aesthetic provider?
Cosmetic treatments are medical procedures, even when they seem simple. Choose a licensed medical professional who asks about your health history and medicines, explains the risks and expected results clearly, and does not pressure you to decide on the spot.
Ask what training the provider has, what side effects are possible and what happens if something does not go as planned. A good provider will also tell you when a treatment is not a good match for you, and will make sure any skin concern that could be medical, such as a changing mole, is checked first.
What to expect at your visit
- You share your concerns and goals.
- We review your health history, medicines and allergies, and examine your skin.
- We discuss options that may fit your goals, including their risks and limits.
- You decide whether and how to move forward.
Common questions about aesthetic care
Is aesthetic care covered by insurance?
Treatments done only to change appearance are usually not covered by health insurance. Care for a medical problem, such as checking a suspicious mole, often is. Call us and your insurance company before a visit if you have questions about what your plan covers.
What is the best way to prevent skin aging?
Protecting your skin from the sun is the most important step. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen every day, wear protective clothing and avoid tanning beds. Not smoking, getting enough sleep and using a gentle moisturizer also help keep skin healthy. Your doctor can suggest a simple routine for your skin type.
Can a family doctor provide cosmetic treatments?
Some family medicine practices offer aesthetic services alongside regular medical care. A family doctor can also review your overall health to make sure a cosmetic treatment is safe for you, and refer you to a dermatologist or plastic surgeon for treatments outside their practice.
Learn more from trusted sources
This page is general health information, not medical advice for your situation. Talk with Dr. Le about your own care.