Key Takeaways

1. Develop clear, step-by-step procedures for every treatment to ensure consistency and quality.
2. Start with longer appointments to build confidence, then reduce time as your skills improve.
3. Slow down and focus on delivering precise, intentional results.
4. Offer same-day appointments to meet demand and attract new patients.
5. Leverage your team to handle preparatory steps, allowing you to focus on patient care.

Efficient appointment scheduling and time allocation are essential for any successful injectable practice. Whether you’re a new injector or a seasoned practitioner, understanding how to manage time while delivering exceptional care is key to both patient satisfaction and practice growth. This guide delves into practical strategies for integrating injectable treatments into your schedule, creating efficient systems, and meeting patient expectations.

Why Systems Matter

Every injectable treatment follows a sequence of steps. Creating standardized systems for each procedure not only ensures quality but also minimizes the risk of skipping essential steps during a busy day. Distractions, haste, and complacency are common enemies of consistency. Having a structured approach helps you and your team stay on track.

Here are examples of step-by-step systems for common injectable procedures:

Neuromodulators (e.g., Botox)

• Patient seated
• Photodocumentation
• Consent signed
• Face cleansed
• Affirmation of treatment areas with the patient
• Diagnostic markings
• Pull up volumes
• Inject
• Post-op instructions

Dermal Fillers

• Patient seated
• Photodocumentation
• Consent signed
• Face cleansed
• Affirmation of treatment areas
• Skin prep with antimicrobial wipes
• Lidocaine administration
• Injections
• Post-op instructions
• Final photodocumentation

Kybella (Deoxycholic Acid)

• Patient seated
• Photodocumentation
• Consent signed
• Patient draped
• Neck cleaned
• Patient marked
• Grid placed and unnecessary grid dots removed
• Pre-treatment ice applied
• Deoxycholic acid drawn into syringes
• Patient injected
• Ice applied immediately and grid dots removed
• Post-op instructions

Steps in bold are often completed by an assistant or nurse, while the injector handles the rest.

Time Allocation for Procedures

When you’re starting out, you’ll naturally take longer to complete treatments as you build confidence and refine your technique. It’s wise to allocate extra time for each procedure initially to avoid feeling rushed.

• Neuromodulators: Initially schedule 30 minutes. With experience, this can be reduced to 5-15 minutes, especially if preparatory steps are handled by staff.
• Dermal Fillers: Allocate 45-60 minutes when starting, giving yourself ample time to evaluate and adjust during the procedure.
• Kybella: Start with 45 minutes to an hour, given the additional steps like marking and post-treatment care.

As you gain experience, your efficiency will improve, and you’ll naturally reduce the time needed without compromising results.

Understanding Cosmetic Patient Expectations

Cosmetic patients differ from those seeking general medical or dental care. They value the practitioner’s time, but they also appreciate precision, care, and a personalized approach. Rushing through treatments can compromise outcomes and patient satisfaction.

Adopting a slower, more intentional pace can significantly improve results and patient perceptions. For example:

• Step back and assess the patient’s appearance during the procedure.
• Take time to make precise adjustments, ensuring balanced and natural results.
• Engage the patient in the process, reinforcing their trust in your expertise.

Patients are often more tolerant of longer appointments when they feel the time is dedicated to achieving optimal results.

The Art of Same-Day Scheduling

Injectables are often “want-based” treatments rather than medical necessities. Patients calling for Botox or fillers typically want the service right away, and delays can lead them to choose a competitor.

Adopting a flexible scheduling strategy ensures you capture these opportunities:

• Same-Day Appointments: Whenever possible, accommodate patients on the day they call.
• Non-Active Scheduling: Place quick injectable treatments on your “non-active” schedule. This means neuromodulator appointments can overlap with other procedures, as much of the prep work is handled by staff.

This approach not only boosts your practice’s revenue but also builds patient loyalty by demonstrating responsiveness to their needs.

Conclusion

Injectable treatments are as much about artistry and patient satisfaction as they are about clinical expertise. By creating efficient systems, understanding patient expectations, and adopting flexible scheduling practices, you can grow your injectable practice while delivering exceptional results.

Remember, every patient’s face is a reflection of your work and your commitment to excellence—so take your time, stay organized, and watch your practice thrive.