Frequently Asked Questions

Unfortunately we don’t offer any services to patients under 18.

Consultation appointments allow 30 minutes, they are complimentary (free) and there is no obligation to go ahead with a treatment.

No stress! Every appointment, whether you’re a new or existing patient, starts with a consultation. You’re not tied to getting a specific kind of treatment when you book.

Yes! We accept Afterpay and Zip Pay at both our South Yarra and Port Melbourne clinics. Split the cost of your cosmetic treatments into easy, interest-free instalments. Visit our payment options page for more details.

The procedures are usually quick, often taking as little as 15-30 minutes, though this can vary depending on the area being treated. Volume restoration & enhancement treatments typically take 30-45 minutes, whereas wrinkle reduction treatments only take 15-20 minutes including a consultation, depending on the specific treatment selected.

Most cosmetic medical treatments cannot be administered if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Symptoms may include pain, discoloration (pallor), mottling, pustules, fishnet pattern rash, or coldness in the affected area, and in severe cases, tissue death (necrosis). If you notice any of these signs it is important to contact the clinic immediately as this will need to be assessed and possibly dissolved.

During your initial consultation, a qualified medical practitioner will conduct a comprehensive facial assessment and discuss your medical history, aesthetic concerns, and treatment goals. The consultation includes a physical examination of the treatment area, discussion of suitable treatment options, explanation of potential risks and benefits, and development of a personalized treatment plan. Consultations are complimentary and there is no obligation to proceed with treatment. This allows you to make an informed decision about your care.

Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a naturally occurring glycosaminoglycan found throughout the body’s connective tissue, skin, and cartilage. It has the unique ability to bind and retain water molecules, holding up to 1000 times its weight in water. In the skin, HA helps maintain hydration, volume, and structural integrity. As we age, natural HA levels decrease, contributing to volume loss and the formation of lines and wrinkles. Medical-grade HA used in cosmetic treatments is biocompatible and gradually metabolized by the body over time.

All Dermaq practitioners are registered medical professionals including doctors and registered nurses with AHPRA (Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency). Our team has undergone extensive specialized training in cosmetic medicine, facial anatomy, and injection techniques. Our practitioners maintain their skills through ongoing professional development, advanced training courses, and adherence to current clinical best practices. Treatment is only performed by qualified medical professionals who can assess suitability and manage potential complications.

To minimize the risk of bruising and complications, it is generally recommended to avoid blood-thinning substances for 24-48 hours before treatment. This includes alcohol, anti-inflammatory medications (such as ibuprofen, aspirin), vitamin E supplements, fish oil, and certain herbal supplements like ginkgo biloba. If you are taking prescribed blood thinners or have a medical condition, discuss this with your practitioner during consultation. You should also avoid scheduling treatments immediately before important events to allow time for any swelling or bruising to resolve. Your practitioner will provide specific pre-treatment instructions during your consultation.

Yes, hyaluronic acid-based treatments can be reversed using hyaluronidase, an enzyme that breaks down hyaluronic acid. This provides an important safety mechanism if a complication occurs or if you are unsatisfied with results. Hyaluronidase can be administered to partially or completely dissolve the HA product. The dissolution process is relatively quick, though it may require more than one session depending on the amount of product and the desired outcome. This reversibility is one of the key safety advantages of hyaluronic acid-based treatments compared to permanent alternatives.

The duration of treatment results varies significantly depending on the type of treatment, product used, treatment area, individual metabolism, and lifestyle factors. Generally, results from hyaluronic acid-based treatments may last anywhere from 6 to 24 months, with more robust products in less mobile areas typically lasting longer. Bio-stimulating treatments that encourage collagen production may provide gradual improvements over several months with longer-lasting benefits. Individual results vary, and your practitioner can provide more specific information about expected duration during your consultation based on your treatment plan.

Most cosmetic medical treatments are considered “lunchtime procedures” with minimal downtime. However, common temporary side effects include mild swelling, redness, tenderness, and potential bruising at injection sites. These typically resolve within a few days to a week. The extent of downtime varies based on the treatment type, area treated, and individual healing response. Some patients return to normal activities immediately, while others prefer to schedule treatments before a weekend. Your practitioner will provide specific aftercare instructions and advise on when you can resume exercise, makeup application, and other activities.

Yes, we welcome clients of all genders. Cosmetic medical treatments are increasingly sought by men for facial rejuvenation, volume restoration, and aesthetic enhancement. Male facial anatomy differs from female anatomy, requiring specific technical approaches and aesthetic considerations to achieve natural-looking, masculine results. Our practitioners are experienced in treating male clients and understand the unique anatomical and aesthetic goals involved in male facial aesthetics.

Common side effects of injectable cosmetic treatments include temporary redness, swelling, tenderness, bruising, and mild discomfort at injection sites. These typically resolve within a few days to a week. Less common side effects may include asymmetry, lumps or bumps (usually temporary), prolonged swelling, or infection. Serious complications are rare but can include vascular occlusion, allergic reactions, or tissue damage. Your practitioner will discuss all potential risks during your consultation and provide detailed aftercare instructions to minimize complications. If you experience severe pain, skin color changes, or other concerning symptoms, contact the clinic immediately.

Yes, multiple treatments can often be combined in a single session or as part of a comprehensive treatment plan to address different aesthetic concerns. For example, treatments targeting different facial areas or combining different modalities (such as injectables with skin rejuvenation procedures) may be performed together. However, the suitability of combining treatments depends on individual factors, treatment areas, and safety considerations. Your practitioner will assess whether combination therapy is appropriate during your consultation and develop a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs and goals.

Our Port Melbourne clinic offers free on-site parking for clients, providing convenient access without parking concerns. Our South Yarra clinic is located directly next to South Yarra station on the Sandringham line, with street parking available nearby on Chapel Street and surrounding streets (metered). Both locations are easily accessible by public transport, with the South Yarra clinic being particularly convenient for those using the train. Specific parking and access information can be found on our locations page.

We understand that schedules change and appointments may need to be rescheduled. We request that you provide as much notice as possible if you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment, ideally at least 24-48 hours in advance. This allows us to offer the appointment time to other clients. For specific details about our cancellation policy or to reschedule an appointment, please contact our clinic directly via phone or email. We will do our best to accommodate your scheduling needs.

Most cosmetic medical treatments are suitable for all skin types and tones. However, certain treatments may require modified techniques or additional precautions depending on your Fitzpatrick skin type, particularly for procedures involving heat, light, or chemical exfoliation. Darker skin types may have different risks for hyperpigmentation or scarring with some modalities. During your consultation, your practitioner will assess your skin type, undertones, and specific characteristics to determine the most appropriate treatments and techniques for your individual needs. A personalized approach ensures safe and effective treatment across all skin types.