Frequently Asked Questions
We believe in honest, open conversations. Here, you’ll find answers to the questions we hear most, so you can feel informed, reassured, and confident in your choices.
Trust & Safety
What does it mean that you are "CQC Registered"?
The Care Quality Commission (CQC) is the independent regulator of health and social care in England. CQC registration means our clinic is held to the same high standards of safety, quality, and patient care as a hospital or GP. It is a mark of our commitment to medical excellence and your safety.
What is a "nurse-led" clinic?
A nurse-led clinic means your consultation and treatment are performed by a Registered Nurse with advanced medical training. Our founders, Donna and Kerry, are both highly experienced nurses (Donna is also an Independent Nurse Prescriber), which ensures an in-depth understanding of facial anatomy, clinical safety, and patient care.
I'm afraid of looking "overdone" or "fake." How do you prevent this?
This is our core philosophy. We believe true aesthetics should "whisper, not shout." We specialise in subtle, natural-looking results. Our goal is to restore and refresh, not to change your face. We achieve this through in-depth consultations, a "less is more" approach, and by creating a bespoke treatment plan that respects your unique features.
Are aesthetic treatments safe?
All medical procedures carry some risk, but we minimise this by being a CQC-registered, nurse-led clinic. We use only premium, evidence-based products (like those from Allergan, Teoxane, and Alma), adhere to strict medical protocols, and our practitioners are trained to manage complications (as members of CMAC). Your consultation will cover all risks associated with your specific treatment.
I am under 21. Can I have treatment?
No. We operate a strict "Over 21" policy for all aesthetic treatments. We reserve the right to ask for photographic identification.
Can I have treatment if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?
No. We follow a strict clinical policy of not treating patients who are pregnant or currently breastfeeding. Your safety and that of your baby is our absolute priority. We look forward to welcoming you back once you have finished breastfeeding.
Our Treatments
What is the difference between Anti-Wrinkle Injections (Botox) and Dermal Fillers?
They treat two different things. Anti-Wrinkle Injections (like Botox®) are a prescription-only medicine that relaxes muscles, used for "dynamic" lines caused by movement (e.g., frown lines). Dermal Fillers are a hyaluronic acid gel used to restore lost volume in "static" lines (present at rest) or to add structure to areas like the cheeks, jawline, or lips. Read more about Anti-Wrinkle Treatment
What are Profhilo® and Polynucleotides? Are they fillers?
No, they are not fillers. They are regenerative biostimulators. Dermal fillers are designed to add physical volume and structural lift to targeted areas like cheeks or lips. Profhilo® and Polynucleotides do not alter facial shape or add volume. Instead, Profhilo® uses highly concentrated hyaluronic acid to remodel the skin's structure and stimulate collagen across the entire treatment area, while Polynucleotides act at a cellular level to repair damaged tissue and reduce inflammation. Read more about Profhilo
What is the difference between Profhilo® and standard skin boosters?
While standard skin boosters are excellent for providing localized, superficial hydration to the skin's top layers, Profhilo® is an advanced, patented bio-remodelling treatment. It contains one of the highest concentrations of pure hyaluronic acid available, which spreads evenly throughout the tissues from just five injection points per side. Rather than just sitting under the surface to hydrate, Profhilo® actively remodels the skin by stimulating four different types of collagen and elastin, creating a lifting, tightening effect and restoring overall skin quality. Read more about Skin Boosters
What is the Alma Harmony Laser?
The Alma Harmony is a state-of-the-art, multi-platform laser. We use different applicators for various needs: ClearLift™ (non-invasive skin tightening), Dye-VL (pigmentation and redness), and iPixel (laser skin resurfacing for texture and scarring).
Are patch tests required for all treatments?
For all laser protocols (Alma Harmony) and specific clinical-grade chemical peels, a patch test is mandatory at least 48 hours prior to your first session. This is a critical safety step to ensure your skin reacts correctly to the treatment parameters.
Will my treatment be painful?
We do everything possible to minimise discomfort. For injectables, we use a strong topical numbing cream. For laser treatments, you may feel a 'hot flick' sensation, but we utilise integrated cooling technology to make the experience as comfortable as possible.
How long will my results last?
Anti-Wrinkle Injections typically last 3-4 months. Dermal Fillers can last 6-18 months depending on the area. Profhilo® usually lasts 6-9 months after the initial course, and laser results for pigmentation can be very long-lasting with proper sun protection.
The Appointment Process
What happens at my first consultation?
Your first visit is an unhurried, no-obligation clinical appointment. We will take a full medical history, analyse your skin structure using the Observe520X system, and discuss your goals. We provide all the information you need, including risks and exact pricing, so you can make an informed choice.
Do I have to have treatment on the same day as my consultation?
No. For all new patients, we actively encourage a "cooling-off" period. We want you to feel 100% confident in your decision at home, free from any pressure, before proceeding with any medical procedure.
Do I need to provide a medical history?
Yes. As medical professionals, providing a full and accurate medical history (including medications and allergies) is a non-negotiable part of our safety process. This is a clinical requirement and is stated on all our consent documentation.
I'm a returning patient. Do I need another consultation?
We always perform a clinical review at the start of every appointment. This is to discuss your results from previous sessions, update any changes to your medical status, and confirm the plan for your current treatment.
What if I have an emergency or concern after my treatment?
We provide comprehensive post-treatment care. In the rare event of a clinical concern or emergency after hours, you will have access to a direct emergency contact number for our lead nurse practitioners, Donna and Kerry.
Bookings, Payments & Policies
How do I book an appointment?
The easiest way is via our 24/7 online booking portal at dgaesthetics.uk/booking. You can see real-time availability and secure your slot instantly. Alternatively, you can contact the clinic via email at contact@dgaesthetics.uk.
Do you require a deposit?
Yes, a deposit of 10-20% is required to secure all appointments. This fee is non-refundable and will be fully deducted from the final cost of your treatment on the day.
What is your cancellation policy?
We require a minimum of 48 hours' notice to cancel or reschedule. This allows us to offer the appointment time to other patients on our waiting list.
What happens if I cancel late or don't show up?
Cancellations with less than 48 hours' notice will forfeit the deposit. No-shows will forfeit their deposit and any future bookings will require full payment in advance.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept all major credit and debit cards. We also offer integrated third-party finance options through Stripe, Klarna, PayPal, and Clearpay for added flexibility.
What is your refund policy?
We do not offer refunds on performed treatments or pre-paid packages. As a medical clinic, you are paying for the clinical product, our professional expertise, and the procedure itself. All risks and expectations are discussed in detail during the consent process.
Still have a question?
If you haven't found the answer you're looking for, our nurse-led team is always happy to help. Contact us directly or book a personal consultation.