Thinking of starting aesthetic treatments but not sure where to begin?
With so many options for aesthetic clinics in Singapore, it can be overwhelming to know what’s right for you. Whether you’re dealing with acne scars, pigmentation, or early signs of ageing, the right treatment plan shouldn’t be based on guesswork—or worse, the cheapest deal online.
At Dr Shane’s clinic, we believe in personalised care rooted in medical science. This guide will help you understand what to look out for when choosing an aesthetic clinic in Singapore, and why your safety, results, and overall experience matter.
Why Choosing the Right Aesthetic Clinic Matters
Aesthetic treatments are medical procedures, not beauty facials. When done right, they can offer natural, long-lasting improvements. When done poorly—or without proper guidance—they can lead to side effects, wasted money, or results that don’t match your expectations.
Your choice of aesthetic clinic directly impacts your safety, results, and overall experience. Singapore has strict regulations for aesthetic clinics, but standards can still vary significantly between providers.
In inexperienced hands, even minimally invasive procedures can lead to complications, unsatisfactory results, or unnecessary treatments. The right clinic, however, will prioritise your safety, provide realistic expectations, and create customised treatment plans based on your unique needs—not simply what’s trending or profitable.
Factors to Consider When Choosing an Aesthetic Clinic
Qualifications of the Aesthetic Doctor
The expertise of your aesthetic doctor significantly influences your results. Look for physicians who:
- Are registered with the Singapore Medical Council (SMC)
- Have specialised training in aesthetic medicine
- Regularly attend conferences and workshops to stay updated on the latest techniques
- Have several years of experience performing the specific treatments you’re interested in
Aesthetic procedures require both medical knowledge and artistic sensibility. An experienced doctor understands facial anatomy and proportions, ensuring results that enhance your natural features rather than creating an artificial appearance.
Range of Treatments Offered by the Aesthetic Clinic
A well-rounded aesthetic clinic should offer a variety of options, from skin boosters and laser therapy to injectables and medical-grade skincare. This indicates they can create truly customised plans rather than trying to fit all patients into a limited menu of services.
Be wary of clinics that seem to push particular treatments regardless of your specific concerns. The right clinic will recommend procedures based on what’s appropriate for your skin type, condition, and aesthetic goals—not what’s most profitable for them.
Technology and Equipment Used in the Aesthetic Clinic
Advanced, medical-grade equipment is essential for safe and effective treatments. Quality clinics invest in FDA- or HSA- approved or CE-marked devices and regularly maintain and update their technology. During your initial visit, don’t hesitate to ask about the technologies used for various procedures and their safety records. Reputable clinics will be transparent about their equipment and how it compares to alternatives.Before-and-After Portfolio of the Aesthetic Clinic
A clinic’s portfolio provides valuable insight into the quality of their work and the results you might expect. Ask to see before-and-after photos of patients (not stock images) with similar concerns to yours. Pay attention to consistency in results and whether the outcomes appear natural. Also, note whether the “after” photos show results from multiple angles and in similar lighting conditions as the “before” images. In Singapore, such photos are only allowed to be shown in clinic, during a consultation; posting of such photos online or sending over messaging services is not permitted.Questions to Ask During Your First Consultation
A good aesthetic consultation isn’t about pushing packages—it’s about understanding your concerns and goals. Here are essential questions to ask:
Who Performs the Aesthetic Treatment?
Some clinics have doctors consult but delegate actual treatments to nurses or therapists. While this is appropriate for certain procedures, others require a doctor’s expertise. Clarify who will perform your treatment and their qualifications.
Some machines require a doctor to operate due to their depth of penetration or higher risk profile.
Certain treatments are regulated and legally must be performed by a licensed medical doctor.
Doctors can better customise settings for your skin type and condition to ensure safer, more effective results.
Improper use of devices can cause complications like burns or pigmentation—always confirm who’s performing your treatment.
What Results Can I Realistically Expect?
Honest doctors will provide realistic expectations rather than making exaggerated promises. They should explain:
- The typical improvement you can expect
- How many sessions might be required
- How long results typically last
- Whether maintenance treatments will be necessary
Be cautious of clinics that guarantee perfect or permanent results, as individual responses to treatments vary significantly.
At Dr Shane Aesthetics, we prioritise this step so you can make informed decisions, not rushed ones.
Are There Any Side Effects or Downtime?
Every procedure has potential side effects and recovery considerations. A trustworthy doctor will thoroughly explain:
- Common and rare side effects
- Recovery time and any activity restrictions
- Aftercare requirements
- What to do if complications arise
This transparency allows you to plan appropriately and indicates the clinic prioritises your well-being over making a quick sale.
Red Flags to Watch Out For When Choosing an Aesthetic Clinic 🚩
Choosing the right aesthetic clinic in Singapore goes beyond attractive promotions — it’s about finding safe, personalised care. Be cautious of clinics that overpromise results, lack proper medical supervision, offer one-size-fits-all treatments, or pressure you into buying packages. These red flags may signal a clinic that prioritises sales over your well-being.
When selecting an aesthetic clinic in Singapore, be alert to these warning signs:
Guaranteed Results or Overpromising Results of Your Aesthetic Treatment
No Personalised Treatment Plans
Pressure to Purchase Packages
Lack of Medical Supervision During the Aesthetic Procedure
Cost vs Quality of Aesthetic Treatments: What You Need to Know
While it’s natural to compare prices, choosing an aesthetic clinic based solely on cost can backfire. Look for transparent pricing with no hidden fees, and weigh overall value — including the doctor’s expertise, technology used, and clinic safety — rather than just the lowest price tag. Online reviews and word of mouth can offer useful insights, but always trust your instincts during the consultation process.
Consider these factors when evaluating pricing:
Price Transparency of the Aesthetic Clinic or Doctor
Reputable clinics provide clear, itemised pricing without hidden fees. Be suspicious of clinics that are vague about costs or continually add charges during treatment.
Value vs. Price
The cheapest option rarely offers the best value. Consider the doctor’s expertise, quality of products used, technology employed, and the clinic’s safety record when assessing value.
Reviews, Word of Mouth, and Online Research
Google reviews, real patient testimonials, and forums can give you a feel for a clinic’s reputation. But also look for consistency—do patients feel heard? Do they return?
And when in doubt, trust your gut. If the consultation feels rushed or unclear, it’s okay to walk away.
Final Thoughts: Trust, Safety, and Long-Term Care
The best aesthetic relationships are built on trust and extend beyond single treatments. Your chosen clinic should demonstrate:
- A commitment to your long-term wellness and appearance
- Willingness to say “no” to inappropriate treatments
- Transparent communication about all aspects of your care
- Availability for follow-up questions and concerns
Remember that aesthetic treatments are medical procedures, not retail services. The right clinic views you as a patient to be cared for, not merely a customer to be sold to.
Are aesthetic clinics safe in Singapore?
What treatments can an aesthetic clinic provide?
Modern aesthetic clinics offer a wide range of treatments, including:
- Injectables (Botox, fillers)
- Laser therapies for skin rejuvenation and pigmentation
- Body contouring procedures
- Medical facials and chemical peels
- Non-surgical facelifts
- Skin tightening treatments
- Hair restoration procedures
The specific offerings vary by clinic, based on their specialisation and available technology.
How do I know if an aesthetic clinic is licensed in Singapore?
- Checking for their license number displayed in the clinic
- Looking up the clinic on the MOH website
- Asking to see their certification documents
- Confirming that the practicing doctors are registered with the Singapore Medical Council
When should I consider aesthetic treatments?
The ideal time to consider aesthetic treatments varies based on individual concerns. Generally:
- Preventative treatments (like sunscreen and certain light therapies) can begin in your 20s
- Early intervention for specific concerns often starts in the 30s
- More comprehensive approaches may be beneficial in your 40s and beyond
A consultation with a qualified aesthetic doctor can help determine the appropriate timing and options for your specific needs.
Why choose Dr Shane for Aesthetic Treatment in Singapore?
Choosing an aesthetic clinic or treatment isn’t about finding the “best device” – it’s about finding the right expertise.
At Dr Shane’s clinic, we believe remarkable results begin with three fundamentals: medical precision, honest advice, and customised care.
While many clinics focus on selling treatments, we prioritise:
- In-depth 1-1 skin health consultations (at least 30 mins)
- HSA/FDA-compliant protocols using approved devices with documented safety profiles
- Personalised energy settings adjusted for your unique skin thickness and concerns
What makes our approach different?
✔ Doctor-Led Consultations
Every treatment plan begins with a medical evaluation of your skin’s needs – not a sales conversation.
✔ Safety-First Philosophy
We use only HSA-approved devices and disclose all potential risks transparently.
✔ No Pressure, Just Professional Advice
You’ll leave your consultation either:
- Confident Ultherapy is right for you, or
- Aware of better alternatives for your goals
✔ Natural-Looking Results
Our treatment plans prioritise gradual, authentic improvement over dramatic but short-lived changes.
✔ Continued Aftercare
Post-treatment guidance to help maintain and optimise your results
The First Step is Always a Conversation
Many patients discover during consultation that their skin concerns actually require:
→ A different treatment approach
→ Combination therapies
→ Or simply more time before considering procedures
Book a skin health assessment to get professional insights before deciding on any treatment.
Let us help you find what’s right for your skin—not just what’s trending.
Secure your consultation slot with Dr Shane today
Great skin starts with the right diagnosis.