What to Include in Botox® Consent Forms

Author

Dr. Stephen Cosentino

A comprehensive aesthetics practice workshop can teach you a lot about how to run and market a successful medical spa or cosmetic surgery clinic. But if you’re serious about setting your business apart from the competition, there’s plenty you need to learn before you have the chance to take one.

Say you’re planning to add or expand Botox® services. You’ll need to take an accredited Botox training course to learn safe handling practices, proper injection technique, patient evaluation protocols, and more.

You’ll also need to familiarize yourself with boring but essential Botox-related concepts. Like what to include on Botox consent forms to ensure your practice remains on the good side of the law.

It’s not rocket science, but it’s important to get right.

What Is a Botox Consent Form?

A Botox consent form is a legally binding document that providers must present to any patient considering a course of Botox treatment.

By signing the form, the patient attests that they understand the potential risks of Botox and permit the provider to proceed with treatments. Patients who sign Botox consent forms don’t waive their rights to seek damages following treatments that result in serious complications, but they generally can’t hold providers accountable for performing the procedures themselves.

What to Include on Botox Consent Forms

A Botox consent form should be written with language that’s easy to understand by patients with no medical expertise. That said, providers should make themselves or members of their staff available to answer questions that come up during review.

The form should include the following information.

Information Identifying the Parties Involved

The official name, address, and contact information of the medical practice or clinic administering Botox treatment
The name, professional title, and credentials (e.g. MD, DO, NP, PA) of the supervising provider who will be performing or overseeing the Botox injections
The patient’s full legal name
Signature lines for both the patient and a witness (e.g. staff member)

Financial Information

The approximate cost of the procedure, including any fees for the initial consultation, injections, and follow-up visits
A clear statement that the patient is financially responsible for the full cost of the Botox treatment, even if additional treatments or touch-ups are required
Detailed payment terms, including accepted methods of payment and any policies around deposits, refunds, or cancellations

Medical Information

A description of the Botox medication, including the active ingredient (onabotulinumtoxinA) and its intended use for cosmetic treatment
The treatment procedure, including the number and location of injection sites
Possible side effects and complications, such as bruising, headache, eyelid drooping, and difficulty swallowing or speaking
Potential risks and adverse outcomes, including the risk of an allergic reaction or spread of the toxin to unintended muscles
Instructions for what to do in the event of an adverse reaction or complication

Legal Information

A disclaimer that any "before" and "after" photos shown are examples and may not be representative of the patient's individual results
A "no guarantees" statement clarifying that the provider cannot promise or guarantee specific outcomes from the Botox treatment
A hold harmless clause stating that the patient agrees not to hold the provider responsible for unsatisfactory outcomes, as long as the provider followed appropriate standards of care
The patient's explicit consent to take before and after photos for medical documentation and potential use in marketing materials.

Questions Patients Ask About Botox Consent Forms

It’s common for prospective patients to have questions about Botox consent forms. These are some of the most frequently asked.

Do I Have to Sign the Botox Consent Form?

Yes. Every patient must sign a Botox consent form before receiving treatment. The provider can’t proceed with treatment without a signed form.

What Happens if I Don't Agree with Something in the Consent Form?

If there is anything in the Botox consent form that you do not agree with or understand, you should discuss it with the provider before signing. The provider should be willing to clarify or modify the form to address your concerns, as long as the changes still meet legal requirements.

Can I Get a Copy of the Signed Consent Form?

Yes, you should receive a copy of the signed Botox consent form for your own records. The provider is also required to keep a copy in your medical file.

How Long is the Consent Form Valid?

Botox consent forms are typically valid for a set period of time, such as 6-12 months. If you require additional Botox treatments after that time, you may need to sign a new consent form.

Can I Go to Another Provider After Signing Your Botox Consent Form?

Yes. A Botox consent form is not an exclusive contract between the patient and provider. Signing the form doesn’t obligate you to go through with treatment, notwithstanding any nonrefundable deposits paid under the agreement.

Will I Need to Fill Out Any Other Forms?

Possibly. Depending on the practice and local regulations, patients may be expected to fill out separate financial responsibility forms, waivers of legal rights, and medical history questionnaires.

Can I Bring Someone with Me to My Botox Appointment?

Yes, you are welcome to bring a friend or family member with you to your Botox appointment. They can sit in on the consultation and help you review the consent form. However, only you as the patient can sign the consent form.

What Happens if I Have a Complication After the Treatment?

If you experience any adverse effects or complications after your Botox treatment, you should contact the provider right away. The consent form outlines the potential risks, but the provider is still responsible for providing appropriate care and treatment.

Adding these additional questions and answers can help make the article more comprehensive and address more of the common concerns patients may have about Botox consent forms.

Where Can I Learn More About Botox?

Detailed information about Botox, including different formulations, indications, and contraindications, is available on the manufacturer’s website.

The Importance of a Comprehensive Botox Consent Form

Ensuring your Botox consent form is thorough and comprehensive is an essential step in providing safe and ethical cosmetic treatments. By including detailed information about the procedure, potential risks, financial responsibilities, and patient rights, you can empower your patients to make informed decisions about their care.

Remember, the consent form is a legally binding document, so it's crucial to keep it up-to-date with the latest industry standards and regulations. Regularly review and update your consent form, and consider having it reviewed by a healthcare attorney to ensure full compliance.

Ultimately, a well-crafted Botox consent form demonstrates your commitment to patient safety and transparency. It can help build trust with your clients, reduce your liability, and set your practice apart in a competitive market. Take the time to get it right, and you'll be on your way to Botox success.