How to find the best doctor for your aesthetic needs in Brussels?
The importance of proper education, training, and legal compliance for safe and effective aesthetic treatments
When considering aesthetic treatments, such as botox or hyaluronic acid fillers, finding the right doctor is essential for ensuring not only great results but also your safety and well-being. At the time of writing, the title of “aesthetic doctor” is not officially regulated in Belgium, and there is no specific university specialization in aesthetic medicine. While this opens the door for many practitioners, it also raises significant concerns about the quality of training and the risks associated with treatments performed by unqualified or underqualified individuals. Here’s what you need to know to choose the best aesthetic doctor for your needs.
Jan 8, 2025
The current state of aesthetic medicine in Belgium
Aesthetic medicine is a dynamic and specialized field that requires an in-depth understanding of anatomy, patient care, and the latest techniques. In Belgium, however, there is no official university specialization for aesthetic medicine, meaning that any doctor holding a Master of Medicine can legally perform aesthetic treatments such as botox, dermal fillers, and other non-surgical procedures.
While many medical professionals possess general medical expertise, they may not have undergone specialized education or training in aesthetic procedures. The absence of regulation makes it especially important for patients to verify the qualifications of their doctor before undergoing any aesthetic treatment.
It's also important to note that under Belgian law, non-doctors can perform certain aesthetic treatments, such as basic skin care procedures and some (though not all) laser treatments, provided they have received appropriate training and are supervised by a qualified medical doctor. At Cuveele's Clinic, Dr. Cuveele ensures that any treatments performed by non-doctor staff are strictly supervised, guaranteeing that all procedures are carried out with the highest level of attention to detail and safety.
The importance of continuous education and training for aesthetic doctors
In the dynamic and ever-evolving field of aesthetic medicine, treatment decisions should consider more than just medical qualifications. As with any medical discipline, staying informed of the latest research, techniques, and safety protocols is essential. Aesthetic procedures require not only a deep understanding of facial anatomy but also an artistic eye to achieve natural-looking results.
At Cuveele's Clinic, Dr. Louise Cuveele believes in the importance of continuous learning. She regularly attends both theoretical and practical training sessions at (private) institutions to ensure her skills remain at the forefront of the aesthetic field. Her commitment to staying informed about new advancements in aesthetic medicine allows her to offer cutting-edge treatments that are safe and effective for her patients. To promote transparency and trust, all of Dr. Cuveele's certifications and training records are readily available for patients to view on this website.
The risks of choosing an unqualified practitioner
One of the more concerning issues in the aesthetic medicine landscape in Brussels (and Belgium) is the presence of unqualified practitioners who illegally provide treatments to patients. In some cases, non-doctors or foreign medical professionals who are not registered with the “Orde der Artsen/Ordre des Médecins” (the Belgian Medical Order) perform aesthetic procedures in Brussels. These individuals may lack the proper qualifications, experience, and understanding of patient safety protocols, putting patients at risk.
Moreover, some foreign doctors who are not officially registered in Belgium may only be practicing temporarily in Brussels, leaving patients without proper follow-up or recourse should complications arise. After all, if a procedure doesn't go as expected, you need a doctor who is readily available for follow-up care, questions, or corrections.
At Cuveele's Clinic we ensure that all practitioning doctors, including Dr. Louise Cuveele, are registered with the “Orde der Artsen/Ordre des Médecins” and have the necessary credentials to perform aesthetic treatments. This means that patients can trust they are receiving safe, ethical care from a licensed medical professional.
How to ensure your aesthetic doctor is qualified
Choosing the right aesthetic doctor is an important decision. While the Belgian medical system allows a wide range of doctors to perform aesthetic procedures, patients need to take the time to ensure their doctor has the necessary qualifications and experience to deliver safe, effective, and satisfactory results. Here are some essential factors to consider when choosing your aesthetic doctor:
1. How many patients does the doctor treat annually?
A high volume of aesthetic treatments often indicates that the doctor has experience and is trusted by many patients. Doctors who perform a wide range of procedures regularly are more likely to be proficient in their craft and capable of dealing with varied cases.
2. Does the doctor regularly pursue further education and training?
A doctor who continuously follows courses, attends workshops, and stays up-to-date with the latest advancements in aesthetic medicine is more likely to offer high-quality treatments. Dr. Louise Cuveele regularly participates in both theoretical and practical training, ensuring her skills reflect the most current techniques in the field.
3. How long has the doctor been performing aesthetic treatments?
Experience matters. Ask your doctor how long they have been performing aesthetic treatments. Years of experience often correlate with refined techniques, higher patient satisfaction, and an ability to handle more complex cases.
4. Is the doctor registered in Belgium?
Make sure the doctor you choose is fully registered with the Belgian “Orde der Artsen/Ordre des Médecins”. When this is done correctly, the doctor should be able to provide her/his RIZIV/INAMI number. Registration not only confirms the doctor’s legal standing but also indicates that they are subject to the regulations and oversight that ensure safe and ethical practice. The RIZIV/INAMI number of Dr. Louise Cuveele can be found on our website. Lastly it is worth mentioning that, while not legally required, Dr. Cuveele is also a Member of the Belgian Association for Aesthetic Medicine.
Conclusion
Choosing the best aesthetic doctor for your needs in Brussels is not just about looking for a doctor who can perform the treatments you want. It’s about ensuring that the doctor is properly trained, legally qualified, and committed to ongoing education to provide the highest standard of care. At Cuveele's Clinic, Dr. Louise Cuveele prides herself on staying at the forefront of aesthetic medicine through continuous professional development, transparency in her qualifications, and strict adherence to ethical standards.
Before undergoing any treatment, take the time to ask questions about your doctor’s experience, training, and credentials. By doing so, you can ensure that you are in the hands of a skilled professional who values your safety and well-being.
At Cuveele's Clinic, we are dedicated to helping you achieve natural, beautiful results in a safe and supportive environment. Feel free to browse our treatment offerings and schedule your appointment today to experience the care and expertise that we offer!