Beware of Counterfeit Botox and Unqualified Providers in Austin

It seems that almost weekly, there's a news story about someone receiving a bogus cosmetic treatment—counterfeit Botox, HIV transmission from microneedling, or undergoing procedures from questionable providers. Why does this happen? The short answer is money.

The aesthetics industry is booming, with billions of dollars being spent by consumers aiming to look and feel better. However, the industry suffers from a lack of regulation regarding who is qualified to perform treatments and what results can be expected. Additionally, declining insurance payments in medicine have led non-core specialties to venture into the aesthetics realm.

The Dangers of Counterfeit Botox in Austin

Recent news about counterfeit Botox causing botulism has been widely reported and sensationalized. Stories suggested patients had received "botched" Botox. AbbVie, the manufacturer of Botox, issued a statement on how to spot authentic Botox. While this information is important, the reality is straightforward: Botox, Dysport, fillers, and other FDA-approved drugs can only be obtained directly from the manufacturer by a licensed medical doctor.

At Levesque Plastic Surgery, we order Botox directly from AbbVie through our rep or their website. We receive an immediate email with order details and tracking information from FedEx. The order typically arrives the next day in a chilled Allergan box with a required signature. This process ensures we receive genuine Botox, preventing counterfeit products from entering our practice.

Counterfeit Botox likely reaches patients through providers who purchase botulinum toxin from illegitimate sources. These providers may respond to faxes or emails offering discounted Botox, which reputable physicians would immediately discard. Prioritizing profits over patient care creates dangerous situations, leading to counterfeit Botox injections.

How to Avoid Counterfeit Botox and Unqualified Providers

• To avoid botched or fake Botox and unqualified providers, follow these guidelines
• Beware of Deals Too Good to Be True: If Botox normally costs $12 per unit in Austin and you see it offered for $6 per unit, question the legitimacy. They may be using samples, diluted Botox, or counterfeit products to attract patients.
• Check Provider Qualifications: At Levesque Plastic Surgery, we ensure all our Austin patients receive accurate information and beneficial treatments at a compelling price. Dr. Levesque and his team are qualified to provide treatments and follow appropriate protocols for consistent and safe results.  Do they have a license to practice in Texas and have there been any board complaints.  You can check our medical license easily here at the Texas Medical Board 
• Verify Training and Certification: When evaluating a med spa or practice, check if the provider is board-certified in dermatology, plastic surgery, or facial plastic surgery. Core specialties require training in aesthetic treatments. Be wary of providers from emergency medicine, internal medicine, OB-GYN, or general surgery without aesthetic training.
• You can easily our board certification here at the American Board of Plastic Surgery 
• Investigate Med Spas: Many Texas med spas are run by nurses, aestheticians, or really anyone with a distant medical director. Ensure the medical director is qualified and involved in the practice.  I personally do not agree with language that uses clients compared to patients.  Injectables and non surgical treatments are medical treatments and thus patients is the more appropriate term and that should carry the same weight of doctor/patient relationship than that of a cosmetics or hair stylists client relationship.

With over 100 board-certified specialists providing aesthetic treatments in Austin, why take unnecessary risks? Prioritize your health and share this information with friends to ensure safe and effective treatments.

For reliable Botox  and filler  treatments in Austin, contact Levesque Plastic Surgery. We are committed to providing top-notch aesthetic care by qualified professionals.