A lot of people are cost-conscious in these lackluster economic times, especially when it comes to elective cosmetic treatments like  Botox. However, there’s always that nagging feeling that choosing an injector based solely on price can be a gamble, as in “you get what you pay for”. While I would not recommend choosing a Botox injector that is running a Groupon special, looking for the most competitive price is not always a bad thing. Just do your homework in researching the Doctor, and below are a few tips to help you do just that.

As I’ve stated in previous blogs, one of the best ways to start your search is with the Botox website, which is www.botoxcosmetic.com. The website has a “find a doctor” feature that helps you locate a doctor that is geographically convenient for you. Be sure to check multiple nearby zip codes to widen your search, as some zip codes have only a few injectors while nearby zip codes might have significantly more.  The site also gives you some biographical information on the physician who is injecting, so you can check out his or her education and credentials.

Another important thing to keep in mind is the experience of the physician. Allergan is the sole distributor of “real” Botox, and physicians who buy their Botox from Allergan are awarded different status levels based on the volume of product that they buy and use. The lowest volume level is Silver, and from there they go up to Gold, Platinum, Platinum-Plus, Diamond and finally the highest, or Black Diamond. It’s likely that if you choose a physician in a small practice who has a Platinum or higher status, you are probably ensured that he or she is skilled and experienced, and you are getting “real” Botox. Platinum status is always a good place to start, as it is awarded to physicians who are deemed top users of Botox Cosmetic in the United States.

Keep in mind that volume alone does not always equate with the quality of the injector. After you’ve researched and found a high-status injector, it’s important to ask a few more questions when you call to book your appointment. Ask how many Botox injectors there are at the clinic and more specifically, will the Doctor be doing your injection himself, and not a nurse or physician assistant. Many high status clinics earn their status by employing a large number of non-physician injectors and thereby doing a large volume of Botox, and you may end up being treated by a relatively inexperienced injector.

Another important thing to remember about a high volume injector is that you’re more likely to get “fresh” Botox. Remember that Botox is delivered to Doctor’s offices in a vial, and the product is a “freeze-dried” protein. In order to be injected, it has to be reconstituted with a sterile saline solution. Once it is reconstituted, it has a limited shelf life even in the refrigerator. A high volume injector is likely reconstituting and going through multiple Botox vials a day, and the product you are getting injected with is likely as fresh as it can be.

Lastly, ask if your provider provides free consultations, and when you are face to face with the Doctor, evaluate how comfortable you are that he or she has spent time answering your questions and concerns and has your cosmetic goals in mind when performing your Botox treatment.