Are aestheticians - medical or otherwise qualified to do sclerotherapy, chemical peels, CoolSculpting, and microneedling?

Question

I am seeing a lot of estheticians calling themselves "medical" allowed to do procedures my dermatologist (recently retired) used to do for me. I wanted to go for some additional sclerotherapy and buy a chemical peel package and I was curious about coolsculpting and microneedling. The first few places I found either had no doctors or derms onside or the medical estheticians performed those procedures. Is this dangerous? Are there still dermatologists who do this themselves?

Reza Momeni, MD, FACS · Answer

Most states will license medical aestheticians, and the abilities and scope of practice will differ from one state to another.

Jill C. Fichtel, MD · Answer

You've asked a great question, and issues in "scope of practice" are frequently discussed in the healthcare profession.  Rules and regulations vary by location.  It would be wise for you to search for an experienced Dermatologist or Plastic surgeon to perform many of these procedures such as sclerotherapy or medium/deep chemical peels.  On the other hand, I don't know any physicians performing laser hair removal themselves, as this is a procedure that typically can be done safely and effectively by a non-physician provider.

Edward I. Lee, MD · Answer

While it is legal to have these services performed by an aesthetician, it is important to consult with a board certified plastic surgeon or dermatologists prior to treatment to insure that you do not have any underlying medical conditions that could interfere with your results.  In the case of CoolSculpting,  results can be permanent.  Having a physician who is trained in all areas of body contouring, is key to determine if CoolSculpting is the appropriate treatment for you.
Edward I. Lee, MD

Isobel Walker, MBBS · Answer

In Australia, much like the US, laws are very lax, and hence procedures such as microneedling, Coolsculpting and SculpSure, even dermal fillers can be performed by dermal therapist and Skype Nurses- Doctors. I have no problem with anyone performing a procedure, just as long as the patients get Gold Standard outcomes and, most importantly if something goes wrong (e.g.. Neuropraxia following Coolsculpting, or nodules following SculpSure), the practitioner has the ability to treat and not just ignore or refer on. This is my option and may not be shared by others, Dr Isobel Walker.

Are aestheticians - medical or otherwise qualified to do sclerotherapy, chemical peels, CoolSculpting, and microneedling?

Answers (4)

Answer: Supervision is the key. Australia and the United States... read more.

Answer: Supervision is the key. Australia and the United States... read more.

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about CoolSculpting

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

Are aestheticians - medical or otherwise qualified to do sclerotherapy, chemical peels, CoolSculpting, and microneedling?

Answers (4)

Answer: Supervision is the key. Australia and the United States... read more.

Answer: Supervision is the key. Australia and the United States... read more.

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about CoolSculpting

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.