Disappointing result - there was no improvement after two weeks

My recent experience at Dr. Melanie Prince's office in Little Rock, AR, left much to be desired. I initially called on Thursday, January 11, 2024, to inquire about jawline enhancement. The receptionist informed me that they offered such services and mentioned a new nurse providing discounted rates for a limited time. She assured me that this nurse had experience with jawline enhancement with fillers and wasn’t new to injecting, that she had been doing so for a couple of years. Excitedly so, I booked an appointment.

Upon arrival, I discussed my concerns with the injector, expressing my desire for a more refined jawline. She quipped about wanting to be "snatched," and I agreed. As we delved into the financial aspect, there was no mention from her end about potential limitations in meeting my expectations within the estimate she gave me or my budget. Trusting her expertise, I authorized the procedure, giving her carte blanche to achieve the desired results.

However, after the procedure, I was disappointed. Despite following her post-procedure instructions diligently, there was no improvement after two weeks. Disheartened, I contacted the office, expressing my concerns. They scheduled a follow-up appointment for 2 weeks later and assured me that they would make things right.

During this subsequent appointment, I emphasized that if and only if results could not be achieved by placing more filler that I would prefer a refund instead of just injecting more filler. However, I was told that Dr. Price does not do refunds. While I acknowledge the nature of their practice, I couldn't help but feel somewhat surprised, especially considering my status as a new client and the relatively non-invasive nature of the procedure. Moreover, the initial assurance from a new staff member had instilled confidence that my desired outcome was attainable, yet this proved not to be the case. Rather than addressing the issue directly, it felt as though they attempted to apply a superficial solution, which ultimately failed to rectify the situation.

Throughout the appointment, I felt gas lighting took place as the injector subtly suggested that she had previously mentioned the potential necessity for multiple syringes to achieve the desired outcome. I promptly clarified that such a notion was unequivocally false and stressed that had she been forthright about this from the outset, I would have opted to allocate the funds towards a facelift or chin implant instead. In hindsight, I would not have proceeded with any filler injections had I known that the anticipated results were unattainable within my budget. Moreover, when the injector cited her own experience of using a significant amount of filler in her own chin as a point of reference, telling me that she used xy and z amount in her chin and stressed that she had told me that. I emphasized that our anatomies are inherently different. It never crossed my mind during our initial consultation that her personal experience would directly correlate with my unique anatomy and treatment plan.

Furthermore, the absence of essential facilities such as functional restrooms was deeply disappointing. Being directed to a nearby porta potty was entirely unsatisfactory, especially for an establishment that caters to discerning clientele. The subsequent ordeal of seeking out an alternative restroom only compounded the overall unpleasantness of the situation. Initially informed that their restrooms were out of order, I was taken back. Subsequently, the suggestion of a porta potty across the street left me feeling not just surprised, but truly appalled. The nurse then mentioned knowledge of another restroom located in a different area, within a different building, which would require some walking to reach. Upon finding this alternative restroom, the conditions were shocking. I was genuinely appalled by its state. Witnessing the nurse's apparent embarrassment, I attempted to lighten the mood with a laugh, sensing her mortification. Ultimately, we navigated the situation by scaling a wall to return to the office, adding an unexpected and surreal element to an already bizarre experience.

In addition to the disconcerting lack of basic amenities, there were also concerning lapses in privacy and confidentiality procedures observed during my visit. Upon signing a consent form, I inadvertently turned the page expecting multiple pages, only to find detailed paperwork outlining procedures other clients had undergone, complete with their names prominently displayed. This breach of privacy left me feeling uneasy, as it was evident that sensitive information was being carelessly exposed. Furthermore, upon checking out, I noticed a clipboard sitting openly on the check-in desk, displaying paperwork with clients' names clearly visible. This disregard for privacy regulations, particularly regarding HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) guidelines, was alarming and further detracted from the professionalism of the establishment. Such oversights are not only unacceptable but also pose significant risks to the confidentiality and trust of clients.

Despite additional filler injections during the second appointment, the desired results remained elusive. If anything, my dissatisfaction grew as my face appeasers heavier rather than refined. Which was an initial concern that I expressed but was told not to worry.

To exacerbate matters, the attempt to justify the lack of results by providing immediate post-injection photos was misleading and contradictory. This action directly contradicted their own guidance to wait at least two weeks for genuine results to become apparent, underscoring the inconsistency and unprofessionalism within the office. Upon informing them that the desired results were still not achieved, they proceeded to send me before-and-after pictures taken immediately after the injections, when things were unsettled and swelling was still present. This action was immediately concerning, as I reiterated that capturing after pictures immediately post-injection did not represent true results. I had been diligently documenting my progress with daily photos and could clearly see in the mirror the ongoing situation and dissatisfaction. Despite their acknowledgment that genuine results take at least two weeks to materialize, they opted to provide a comparison from immediately after, which felt like yet another gas lighting tactic.

In conclusion, my visit to Dr. Melanie Prince's office was a regrettable experience marred by poor communication, inadequate facilities, and subpar results. I'm hesitant to leave negative reviews, I feel compelled to warn others against similar disappointments. This entire ordeal could have been avoided with better transparency and professionalism from the office staff. I could continue to provide further details, photos and conversation but I’ll stop here.