Aesthetics is still Medicine
Why Every New Client Starts with a Consultation at On Brand Aesthetics
At On Brand Aesthetics, we believe beautiful results start with something far more important than a treatment plan, they start with understanding the patient.
One of the most common questions we receive from new clients is: "Why do I need a consultation before my treatment?" The answer is simple: aesthetics is still medicine.
While aesthetic treatments may help you look and feel your best, they are considered medical procedures in the state of Ohio. Whether you're interested in neurotoxins, dermal fillers, microneedling, laser treatments, or other aesthetic services, patient safety and proper medical oversight must always come first.
What Is a Good Faith Exam?
The State of Ohio requires patients to receive a Good Faith Exam (GFE) before undergoing aesthetic medical treatments.
A Good Faith Exam is a medical evaluation performed by a qualified healthcare provider to determine whether a patient is an appropriate candidate for treatment. During this evaluation, we review:
Medical history
Current medications
Allergies
Previous aesthetic treatments
Treatment goals and expectations
Potential risks or contraindications
This process ensures treatments are both safe and appropriate for each individual patient.
Medical Oversight Matters
All medical aesthetic practices in Ohio are required to operate under the supervision of a Medical Director who oversees the medical aspects of the practice.
At On Brand Aesthetics, our Medical Director, Dr. Russell Johnson, provides medical oversight and collaborates closely with our Nurse Practitioner, Rachel Surman, FNP-C, APRN, to ensure patients receive safe, evidence-based care.
Together, they help ensure that every patient receives the appropriate evaluation before treatment recommendations are made.
Dr. Johnson's role extends well beyond simply serving as Medical Director. He actively reviews patient charts to ensure medical questionnaires are complete, informed consents have been thoroughly reviewed and signed, and treatment orders are being followed appropriately. He remains readily available for provider consultation whenever questions arise regarding patient care, treatment planning, or clinical decision-making.
In the event of an adverse reaction or complication, such as a vascular occlusion, allergic reaction, or other unexpected medical event, Dr. Johnson is available to provide immediate medical guidance and support. His involvement in the practice is ongoing and hands-on, allowing him to maintain oversight of clinical operations while supporting both our providers and patients.
At On Brand Aesthetics, medical oversight is not a formality; it's an integral part of how we deliver safe, ethical, and high-quality patient care every day.
Our Consultation Process
Every new patient at On Brand Aesthetics, whether they are scheduling with Rachel or Erika, begins with a consultation and Good Faith Exam performed by Rachel Surman, FNP-C, APRN.
During this visit, Rachel will:
Discuss your aesthetic concerns and goals
Review your medical history
Perform your Good Faith Exam
Determine whether treatment is appropriate
Create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your goals
If you are an appropriate candidate for treatment, Rachel will enter patient-specific medical orders.
How Treatment Works After the Consultation
Once your Good Faith Exam is completed and orders are entered, treatment can proceed according to your individualized plan.
For patients seeing Erika Kukral, RN, treatment is performed under the orders established by Rachel and within the medical framework overseen by Dr. Johnson.
This collaborative approach allows us to provide care that is:
Safe
Personalized
Evidence-based
Compliant with Ohio regulations
Most importantly, it ensures every treatment recommendation is made with your health, safety, and long-term results in mind.
The On Brand Difference
At On Brand Aesthetics, we never believe in one-size-fits-all treatments.
Our consultation process is designed to educate, guide, and create a customized plan that aligns with your goals while maintaining the highest standards of patient safety. Because looking your best starts with caring for your health first.
If you're considering aesthetic treatments and aren't sure where to begin, schedule a consultation. We'll take the time to understand your goals, answer your questions, and create a plan that's uniquely On Brand, for you.