Injectables: Know the Facts, Save Your Face
Submitted by Dr. Bernabe Vazquez on November 22, 2019
The burden of knowledge about injectables safety falls on the consumer, so it’s vital to familiarize yourself. The recent surge of injectable services such as Botox, Juvederm, Voluma and others offered in unconventional locations such as hair salons, clothing boutiques and lash extension salons is a reminder to ensure you know the facts about safety.
So, what are the rules in Florida?
In the state of Florida, Botox and other similar injectables can only be prescribed by a doctor, physician’s assistant or an advanced registered nurse practitioner. Injection of Botox and/or fillers is deemed the practice of medicine and a registered nurse or medical assistant is not allowed to perfect these procedures, even when a physician is present in the room. Advanced registered nurse practitioners and physician assistants can perform these procedures under protocols written and reviewed by the supervising physician, as per Florida law.
Injectable red flags
It’s smart to realize that your face is not the place to experiment with or bargain shop for injectables. Boutiques in the Miami area and beyond have begun to host “Botox parties.” These parties include serving wine and cocktails – yet, it is illegal to serve a patient alcohol prior to injecting them with fillers.
Keep an eye out for foreign-bought or imposter products. These products are sold and administered at locations where a physician is not present. Make sure you see the packaging and stick with brand names. Some brands sold to board-certified plastic surgeons like Dr. Bernabe Vazquez include Botox, Juvéderm, Restylane, Voluma, Xeomin, Dysport, Radiesse, and Sculptra.
If a product is legit, you will be offered enrollment in a loyalty points program. Common programs are Brilliant Distinctions and ASPIRE by Galderma. If there is no rewards program offered or available, you may be subject to counterfeit products or in an otherwise illegal situation.
Choose your spa and products with care. The potentially adverse side effects of improperly administered or counterfeit products are serious. They can range from facial paralysis to semi-permanent lumps. Patients can also experience bruising or deformation, uneven facial features, nerve damage, an injection into a vein and more.
Make sure you do your research – it’s important to know the facts and choose a reputable board-certified plastic surgeon to administer your facial fillers.
