BOTOX and Photography

[Drsumitra]

 Many of the views are angles that the patient rarely has an opportunity to see. The majority of patients really do not like their appearance in these photographs, which is usually the reason they have come for advice. The RFRP series allows patients to understand specifically what they do not feel comfortable with in their facial appearance.

It is recommended that a consultation area with a computer/monitor be created where the patient can sit in a relaxed setting and take the mouse to scroll through the RFRP (Figure 5). This method is more effective than explanations, pamphlets, DVDs, and informative lectures. Patients only absorb 14% of what they hear. So stop talking! However, patients’ brains absorb 86% of what they see—a good reason to start showing great photography!

The doctor is not called (nor permitted into the consultation room) until the patient has had ample time to review the photographs—usually at least 10 minutes. The emotional impact of seeing oneself is amazing: let the patient have the time! The time waiting in your private office or performing other tasks is rewarded through understanding and appreciation of their condition—and future referrals.

A printout of the patient’s portrait is also placed on the table beside the mouse. The team member recommends that while the patient views the RFRP, he or she uses the highlighter provided to mark on the photograph any areas of concern and note any treatment requests for the doctor to review. Once the patient has identified the areas of concern, has had time for contemplation and then highlighted these areas of concern, the assistant then calls the doctor into the consult area. Introductions are made. The doctor may begin by asking, “Would you please share with me your feelings on these photographs?” The reply 90% or more percent of the time is, “I hate them!”

The patient has already highlighted on the portrait printout what he or she wishes to have treated. It is then a matter of assuring the patient that you understand the concerns put forth. Review the markings on the portrait, discuss the best treatment options and ask when the patient would like to begin treatment.

The portrait with the markings is kept in the patient file (or scanned) and is an excellent medical legal document. When the patient returns for the 2-week post-op check, the RFRP series (3.5 minutes) is retaken. The patient is excited with the results of the treatment and the before and after photographs. 

A printout of these before and after photographs is a great referral source. Another NEW patient referral!