The emergence of nonsurgical cosmetic laser procedures has dramatically expanded the services offered by aesthetic practitioners and professionals. Many patients find noninvasive treatments appealing. An increasing number ask practitioners to provide a variety of cosmetic laser procedures.
Medical Practice and Aesthetic Services is A Business
A medical or aesthetic practice is a business. Basic overhead along with regulatory, licensing and insurance requirements can soak up profits. Without a consistent and growing revenue stream, the ability to provide services diminishes.
While practitioners have extensive specialty training, they can sometimes lack business insight. In recent years, many have closed because of economic pressures or joined group practices to focus on patient services while business professionals looked for ways to economize and enhance profits. Whether practitioners offer services singly or as a part of a group, there is an ongoing business need to develop consistent sources of revenue to offset expenses and allow for expansion of the practice.
Cosmetic Lasers and Income Opportunities
The growing population of seniors along with other demographic segments has greatly increased demand for cosmetic procedures. Many seek less invasive and nonsurgical treatments. In the case of the baby boom senior generation, the types of services they seek coincide neatly with treatments that can be provided in the office with lasers.
Skin resurfacing procedures are among the most requested treatments. Laser technology is ideal for providing services like:
- Reducing facial lines and wrinkles
- Balancing skin color and reducing discoloration and age spots
- Firming skin tone
- Removing blemishes, moles and warts
- Removal of scars and acne
- Body hair removal
These treatments are accomplished using two types of laser technology. Ablative lasers remove the outer layers of skin. In consultation with the patient, the practitioner adjusts the penetration depth of the treatment to meet the patient expectations and correct the condition. Non-ablative lasers heat the tissues below the surface without damaging the outer skin, encouraging production of new collagen. Practitioners who can offer both these services immediately expand their income potential.
Good for Patients, Practitioners and Business
While the rising demand for cosmetic laser services brings with it the potential for increased revenue, it also requires an investment in equipment. Purchasing used cosmetic lasers can greatly increase the return on investment in laser technology. The price of new laser equipment can range from the tens of thousands to more than $100,000, depending on the machine and purpose. Used equipment can be purchased for a fraction of that cost.
When considering used equipment, it is essential to find a reputable dealer. There are many suppliers in the market, and not all offer the same level of service or product quality. Practitioners should verify references and not rely on testimonials in company literature or on websites. It is also important to remember that even new equipment can require service and checking for warranties and service agreements is imperative.
In any business, an investment in equipment should be accompanied by a potential for income generation. Laser technology is expensive, but the income returns can be significant. In short, an investment in laser technology is good for patients, practitioners and business.