Patient Education
Questions Patients Ask Us
Honest, plain language answers to the questions we hear most. When the answer depends on your health and goals, we say so. Your consultation is where your plan is decided.
Written by Balanced Essence Medical Wellness
Medical Weight Management
Do I have to take weight loss medication forever?
There is no single answer. How long someone stays on a medication depends on their health, their response and their goals, and it is reviewed at follow up visits. Dr. Lau discusses the plan with you, including what maintenance could look like.
Will insurance cover GLP-1 medication?
Sometimes. We pursue insurance coverage first, including prior authorization, but coverage is not guaranteed and depends on your plan. If coverage is denied, you can buy the FDA approved medication directly from the manufacturer. Our office does not sell the medication.
What happens if I stop medication?
It varies from person to person, and some people regain weight after stopping. Please do not stop or change a prescribed medication without talking to your provider first. Dr. Lau can help you plan any change safely.
Can I lose weight without losing muscle?
Protecting muscle is an important part of a good plan, and the right approach depends on you. An optional body composition scan measures fat mass and muscle mass so changes can be tracked over time, not just your weight on a scale.
Do I need a membership or contract?
No. You can pay per visit and stop at any time, or join the Weight Loss Membership if it suits you.
Injectables
How many units of Botox might I need?
It depends on the area, your muscle strength and the result you want. As a general reference, the FDA approved dose for frown lines is 20 units and for crow's feet it is 24 units across both sides. Many people need a different amount, and your injector recommends a number after watching your face move.
Will Botox make my face look frozen?
Not when it is dosed for your face. Conservative, well spaced placements aim to soften lines while keeping natural expression. If you want more softening, it can be added at your two week check.
What is the difference between Botox and Xeomin?
Both are FDA approved botulinum toxin type A products that relax the muscles behind expression lines, and they are priced the same at our office. Xeomin is formulated without the accessory proteins found in Botox. Your provider can explain which may suit you.
Body Contouring
How many PHYSIQ sessions may be recommended?
PHYSIQ is usually done as a series rather than a single visit, which is why a package of five is offered. Your provider recommends a number based on the area and your goals.
Can PHYSIQ help with loose skin after weight loss?
PHYSIQ is designed to target fat and tone muscle. It is not presented as a treatment for loose skin. If loose skin is your main concern, ask at your consultation so your provider can explain what is and is not realistic.
Is PHYSIQ a weight loss treatment?
No. PHYSIQ refines specific areas and works best for adults near their goal weight. If overall weight is the main goal, Medical Weight Management may be a better starting point.
Body Contouring with PHYSIQMedical Weight ManagementPHYSIQ vs. Medical Weight Management
Skin
What is the difference between a chemical peel and microchanneling?
A chemical peel uses targeted ingredients on the surface layers of the skin and is often chosen for acne, pigmentation and dullness. Microchanneling uses mechanical stimulation to support collagen and is often chosen for texture, pores and acne scarring. Many plans use both at different times.
Chemical Peels with NOONMicrochanneling with ProcellFull comparison
Is microchanneling suitable for darker skin tones?
Microchanneling relies on mechanical stimulation rather than heat or light, which makes it an option for many skin tones. Your provider confirms suitability at your consultation.
Hair
Who is hair restoration right for?
It suits adults with early to moderate thinning who still have active follicles. It cannot regrow hair where follicles are no longer present. Sudden or patchy hair loss should be checked by a doctor first.
Pain and Recovery
What kind of pain is shockwave therapy used for?
Shockwave therapy is commonly used for chronic muscle and tendon pain, such as in the shoulder, elbow, back, hip, knee, heel and foot. It is not a replacement for emergency care or for diagnosing a new injury.
Side by Side Comparisons
Neutral comparisons for common decisions. Neither option is presented as better for everyone.
- Botox vs. XeominBotox and Xeomin are both used to soften expression lines. Here is how they compare on the points patients ask about most.
- Chemical Peel vs. MicrochannelingBoth improve how skin looks, but they work differently and suit different concerns.
- PHYSIQ vs. Medical Weight ManagementThese address different goals. One refines specific areas; the other addresses overall weight and health.
Looking by concern instead? See What We Treat.