Frequently Ask Questions
How do I get started?
Call Shino Bay Cosmetic Dermatology & Laser Institute today to schedule a consultation with one of our doctors (954) 765-3005 or toll-free (877) 765-3005. You could also fill out our contact form if you prefer. You might also want to download and fill out our patient forms if this will be your first visit to Shino Bay Cosmetic Dermatology & Laser Institute.
Can I download forms I need to fill out as a new patient?
Yes, you can download forms here, print and fill out the required forms and hand them to us when you arrive. You can also skip this and fill them out when you arrive if you prefer.
What is the recovery like?
Most patients return to normal activities on the same day as their treatment. The area that is treated with the laser may be reddened, bruised or swollen for an hour or a few days, but camouflage cosmetics are usually able to conceal any evidence of treatment. Most treatments show little or no sign that you had anything done at all. A mild reddening for 1-3 hours is the most common after-effect. Any post-treatment discomfort can usually be relieved with extra-strength Tylenol. Your doctor may prescribe a stronger medication depending on the procedure. A topical antibiotic such as Bacitracin may also be recommended for the treatment area.
Is laser treatment painful?
The sensations vary depending upon the procedure, the technology used, the wavelengths and the energy settings. Many procedures are completely painless. All are tolerable. Many people describe the laser as feeling like the snap of a rubber band on the skin. We utilize all of the most efficient and most comfortable treatment systems including the adjustable “frozen air cooling system” that maximizes patient comfort by chilling the treatment area before, during and after the procedure. A local anesthetic may be recommended for more sensitive treatment areas or for younger patients.
Are there different kinds of lasers?
Yes, lasers are often specialized to handle a particular type of problem. There is no single “cure-all” laser capable of correcting all problems. This is why it so important seek out a doctor and practice that offers all of the best technology for your specific needs, and why we invest in all of the required top-of-the-line technologies to provide the optimal customized treatments and get the very best results
What conditions can be treated with laser therapy?
A variety of functional and cosmetic skin problems can be treated with lasers. Laser treatments can reduce the appearance of sun damage, scars, stretch marks, wrinkles, unwanted hair, fine lines, vascular lesions (birthmarks, spider veins, varicose veins and redness on the face) and uneven pigmentation. See our Procedures page for a complete list.
Who is a candidate for laser treatment?
Men and women of all skin types, colors and tones can benefit from laser treatment.
What insurance plans do you accept?
Sorry, but since we are a cosmetic practice, medical insurance plans are not accepted
What are your payment options?
Cosmetic procedures are not covered by insurance unless specified as such. All fees will be discussed with patients in advance of the procedure and are payable in advance of the procedure. We accept VISA, Discover, MasterCard, American Express and Debit Cards.
For cosmetic packages and procedures we offer financing options for 6-18 months and other financing options featuring low interest for up to 60 months through our credit providers Alphaeon Credit and CareCredit (with approved credit).
You can be approved within a few minutes while you are at your appointment.
For further information regarding our payment policies or pre-approval on credit amounts please contact our office directly at 954-765-3005. We will do our best to find you a plan that works with your budget.
What is your cancellation and/or “NO SHOW” policy?
We understand that “life happens”, however booking a valuable slot of time with us leaves an entire team and often a doctor awaiting your arrival. If you are unable to keep an appointment for any reason, we kindly ask that you contact us at least 24 hours in advance to cancel or change your appointment time. We do call and/or email everyone an email appointment reminder, but unfortunately there are a small percentage that think it is okay to just “no show” without responding to confirm, reschedule or cancel. This causes delays for everyone on our schedule for that day because the team assigned to you will be waiting for you. Multiply that by two or more “no shows” in a row and now every patient and team member that day is needlessly waiting when instead, someone could have been taken care of in that time slot.
We value your precious time and ours as well.
By contacting us at least 24 hours in advance to reschedule or cancel, we can schedule another patient into this now available time slot. For this reason we do require a credit card on file for making an appointment, but it is ONLY charged if you simply “NO SHOW” and do not respond to our confirmation request/s and/or contact us at least 24 hours in advance. Please call our office for details at 954-765-3005 if you have any questions.
Why do I need a consultation?
Here at Shino Bay Cosmetic Dermatology & Laser Institute, the consultation is a very important part of the treatment process. At this visit, you and your Patient Care Coordinator will be discussing your concerns, goals and what you are looking to achieve with your provider. They will be able to personally assess and make proper recommendations for your optimal correction and rejuvenation. Your PCC will play an important role in further education, financial obligations, and a valuable connection in your journey here at Shino Bay Cosmetic Dermatology & Laser Institute.
Can I have my laser surgery done on the same day as my consultation?
It is possible to have laser surgery on the same day as your consultation. This will depend on the procedure(s) you are undergoing as well as the office schedule.
How do lasers work?
Laser light is absorbed by water or dark pigments in our body’s tissues (such as melanin in the skin and hemoglobin in the blood) and converted to heat. This destroys the unwanted pigment, hair, vein, etc. without damaging nearby areas. Lasers can also be used to gently stimulate cells and activate them to do things like create new collagen, release stored fat, speed up wound healing and prevent scars from forming.
What are the benefits of lasers over other treatment methods?
By using light, lasers can avoid breaking the skin, making treatments noninvasive. Lasers offer many other advantages over traditional techniques, including “bloodless” surgery, reduced risk of infection, less scarring, high precision, and faster treatment and recovery time.
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