Shared Decision Making in Aesthetics: Why Consultation Is Key to Choosing the Right Treatment
When it comes to aesthetic treatments, the decision to pursue a procedure is entirely elective, unlike conventional medicine, where treatment is often driven by necessity or illness. This means that the way we approach treatment planning in aesthetics should look different too. At Fresh Aesthetics & Skin, we believe in shared decision making (SDM), a collaborative approach where both the patient and practitioner play an active role in shaping the treatment journey.
Aesthetic Medicine: Not About Telling You What to Do
One of the biggest misconceptions about aesthetic medicine is that it's the clinician’s job to simply tell patients what they “need.” However,, it’s not about need at all, it’s about want, goals, and informed choice.
As aesthetic clinicians, it’s not our job to tell you what treatment to have. Instead, it’s our responsibility to offer expert guidance based on your concerns, educate you on all suitable options, and outline the risks, benefits, and likely outcomes of each. The ultimate decision? That’s entirely yours.
The Consultation: Where Shared Decision Making Begins
The consultation is the cornerstone of the SDM process. It’s not a sales pitch—it’s a conversation.
During your consultation at Fresh Aesthetics, we’ll explore three key elements:
Your Presenting Concern: What’s brought you to the clinic? Is it volume loss, fine lines, skin texture, pigmentation, or something more general like “looking tired”? Every concern is valid and worth exploring.
Your Goals: What outcome are you hoping to achieve? Some patients want subtle rejuvenation, others seek more dramatic change. Understanding this helps us tailor options to your expectations.
Clinical Assessment: This is where we step in to assess if your goals are achievable, realistic, and most importantly, safe. Sometimes, we may find a better or safer alternative to achieve your desired result. For example, a patient may ask for anti-wrinkle treatment when, in fact, a medical skin peel or microneedling would offer a more natural improvement.
Informed Choice, Not Persuasion
Once we've reviewed your concerns, goals, and clinical findings, we’ll present you with evidence-based treatment options that are suitable for your individual case. For each option, we clearly explain:
What the treatment involves
The expected results
Potential risks and downtime
Any maintenance required
Cost considerations
There’s no pressure. You are never expected to decide immediately or feel obligated to proceed. In shared decision making, your input is valued just as much as mine. Together, we shape a plan that aligns with your preferences, lifestyle, and budget, not just clinical possibilities.
Empowerment Through Education
At Fresh Aesthetics & Skin, we place great emphasis on patient education. That’s why we take the time to ensure you fully understand the treatment options available to you, rather than rushing into a procedure or suggesting a “one size fits all” solution.
We believe that when patients are well-informed, they are empowered to make decisions that feel right for them, not just in the moment, but for the long term.
Final Thoughts
Shared decision making is at the heart of ethical, person-centred aesthetic medicine. While we bring medical expertise, clinical judgement, and experience to the table, you bring your values, your vision, and your voice. When those two elements meet in open, honest consultation, we create treatment plans that are not only effective, but also deeply personal to you.
At Fresh Aesthetics, your journey is never about what we think you should have, it’s about what’s possible, safe, and right for you.
Ready to explore your options?
Book a consultation today and take the first step toward confident, collaborative care.
