What is medical aesthetics?
Medical aesthetics (aesthetic medicine) refers to procedures performed by qualified physicians in licensed medical institutions using medical techniques to improve appearance. According to the Medical Care Act, it is a medical practice, distinct from general beauty services (salons, skincare) in that it requires physician diagnosis and use of TFDA-approved devices or medications. Common categories include laser and light therapy, injectable treatments, and radiofrequency/ultrasound lifting. The following is a neutral compilation of public information, not medical advice.
Implication that medical aesthetics is a 'medical practice'
According to the Medical Care Act, medical aesthetics is a medical practice, which means it differs from general consumer services. It must be performed by a qualified physician who has personally examined the patient and is subject to relevant regulations. Understanding this helps distinguish between medical and non-medical services.
- Must be performed by a qualified physician after personal examination; cannot be performed by non-medical personnel
- Appropriate medical records and pre-treatment explanations are required
- Equipment and medications used must be legally approved by the Food and Drug Administration
- Must be conducted in a legally registered medical institution
Concept of invasive and non-invasive treatments
Medical aesthetic treatments can be broadly divided into invasive (e.g., injections, needle-type) and non-invasive (e.g., most energy-based treatments) based on whether they penetrate the skin or enter the body. Invasive treatments require higher standards of infection control and operation, but non-invasive treatments are still medical practices and must be performed by a physician. The suitability of a treatment type should be assessed by a physician based on individual conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between medical aesthetics and general beauty services (salon)?
Medical aesthetics is a medical practice that must be performed by a qualified physician in a licensed medical institution using TFDA-approved devices or medications; general beauty services (salon, skincare) are not medical practices and are not allowed to perform invasive or medical-grade procedures. Whether it is a medical practice is determined by the competent authority.
What are common categories of medical aesthetics?
Common categories include laser and light therapy (e.g., picosecond laser, IPL), injectable treatments (e.g., hyaluronic acid, botulinum toxin), and energy-based treatments such as radiofrequency and ultrasound lifting. Each category has different applications and should be evaluated by a physician based on individual conditions.
What should I confirm before a medical aesthetics procedure?
You may confirm whether the practitioner is a qualified physician, whether the facility is a licensed medical institution, and whether the devices or preparations used are TFDA-approved. This site only compiles public information and does not endorse.
How are medical aesthetics costs determined?
Medical aesthetics is usually self-paid and not covered by health insurance. Costs vary by procedure type, area, and number of sessions. Please refer to the clinic's written quotation for actual pricing.
Are there risks in medical aesthetics procedures?
Any medical procedure carries risks and potential adverse reactions. A qualified physician should evaluate individual conditions and provide full disclosure. This site only compiles public facts and does not constitute medical advice.
How can I verify if an aesthetic clinic is legal?
You can use the Ministry of Health and Welfare's medical institution inquiry system to verify if the clinic is a licensed medical institution and if the practitioner is a qualified physician. This site's data comes from public sources and is for reference only.
What should I pay attention to when getting medical aesthetics for the first time?
It is recommended to confirm that the practitioner is a qualified physician, the facility is a licensed medical institution, and the devices or medications used are TFDA-approved, and to fully understand the procedure content and potential risks before deciding. This site only compiles public information, not medical advice.
How long do the effects of medical aesthetics procedures last?
Duration varies by procedure type, individual skin condition, and aftercare; individual differences are significant, and results vary. Please refer to the physician's explanation. This site only compiles public information.
Official sources：醫療器材業務專區（食品藥物管理署）、藥品業務專區（食品藥物管理署）
This page is a neutral compilation of information for reference only; it does not constitute medical advice or any treatment commitment.