The U.S. medical aesthetics market is on track to hit $23.3 billion by 2027, fueled by more than 10 percent annual growth in demand for advanced aesthetic treatments. While many cosmetic services can be delegated to trained nonphysician providers, the most profitable and high-demand procedures, from injectable to laser treatments that resurface damaged skin, legally require a physician’s oversight.
For doctors, this number isn’t just a trend to watch; it’s a growing opportunity to lead compliant, high-revenue aesthetic practices.
7 Most Popular Treatments That Require a Physician’s Oversight
1. Botulinum Toxin Injections (Botox, Dysport, Xeomin)
One of the most in-demand injectable treatments, botulinum toxin, is used to smooth wrinkles, treat fine lines, frown lines, facial lines, and crow’s feet. In 2023, more than 4.4 million botulinum toxin treatment sessions were performed, solidifying its place as the top nonsurgical procedure in aesthetic practices.
Botox works by temporarily relaxing targeted muscles, helping patients achieve a more youthful appearance with little to no downtime. As a prescription medical treatment, it must be ordered by a licensed physician. Complications such as drooping eyelids or asymmetry can occur if not administered correctly, making physician supervision essential for patient safety and optimal results.
2. Dermal Fillers
Dermal fillers restore volume, soften lines, and improve skin texture by stimulating collagen and elastin production. These injectable treatments can target deep wrinkles, sagging skin, and specific skin concerns like acne scarring or uneven skin tone.
Because fillers are prescription-only, they require medical oversight to avoid risks such as vascular occlusion or tissue damage.
3. Ablative Laser Resurfacing
Ablative laser treatment removes damaged outer layers of skin to reveal smoother, more youthful skin beneath. It is commonly used for skin rejuvenation, treating sun damage, acne scarring, and various skin concerns, while also improving skin tone and texture.
The concentrated laser energy targets the skin’s surface, but improper use can cause burns, pigmentation changes, or scarring. These risks make it a medical treatment that must be performed or supervised by a physician familiar with different skin types and conditions.
4. Chemical Peels (Medium to Deep)
Medium and deep chemical peels use a medical-grade chemical solution to remove dead skin cells, improve skin tone, and address stubborn skin concerns such as deep wrinkles, pigmentation, and damaged skin. These advanced skin treatments penetrate beyond the outer skin’s surface, which can cause visible signs of irritation or scarring if not handled properly.
Physician oversight ensures safe administration, correct patient selection, and effective aftercare to achieve skin rejuvenation results and reveal smoother, hydrated, youthful skin.
5. PDO Thread Lifts
This minimally invasive, nonsurgical procedure lifts sagging skin and stimulates collagen production to improve skin elasticity. PDO (polydioxanone) thread lifts are a popular skin-tightening treatment for patients seeking a more youthful appearance without surgery.
Because threads are inserted under the skin with a needle or cannula, there is potential for infection, nerve injury, or uneven results. Medical supervision ensures the procedure is performed under sterile conditions and tailored to each patient’s skin type and facial anatomy.
6. Kybella (Deoxycholic Acid Injections)
Kybella uses FDA-approved deoxycholic acid injections to break down fat cells, targeting excess fat under the chin and improving jawline definition. While this fat reduction treatment is effective in permanently eliminating stubborn fat, incorrect placement can damage surrounding tissue or cause nerve injury.
As a prescription-only injectable treatment, it requires physician oversight to ensure proper technique, patient safety, and desired aesthetic outcomes.
7. Laser Hair Removal (Medical-Grade Devices)
Medical-grade laser hair removal targets hair follicles with concentrated laser light to stop unwanted hair growth. This skin treatment offers long-term reduction in hair growth, even for fine hair, across multiple skin types. However, the higher power of these devices compared to spa-grade systems increases the risk of burns or skin damage.
Medical supervision ensures correct settings, treatment for specific skin concerns, and safe application for optimal results with minimal discomfort.
Why Some Treatments Require an MD
Certain skin treatments and injectable procedures are legally classified as medical treatments because they involve prescription-only products, medical-grade devices, or techniques that can affect the skin’s deeper layers, hair follicles, or fat cells.
In many states, botulinum toxin, dermal fillers, deoxycholic acid injections, and ablative laser treatments must be supervised by a licensed physician to ensure patient safety and compliance.
Oversight from a medical doctor also helps in managing potential complications, such as allergic reactions, vascular occlusions, or burns from laser energy. They also ensures protocols are followed, patient selection is appropriate, and each treatment session delivers both safe results and high patient satisfaction.
The Opportunity for Physicians
These high-demand aesthetic treatments deliver premium pricing, repeat patient visits, and strong revenue potential. Clinics offering a combination of injectables, laser treatments, and skin rejuvenation services often see annual revenues in the mid- to high six figures.
By partnering with trained aesthetic providers as a medical director, physicians can expand their practice, enter the med spa industry, or add a profitable service line without the overhead of traditional medical practice models.
How Medical Director Co. Helps
Medical Director Co. connects physicians with compliant aesthetic practices seeking medical oversight. We provide guidance on protocols, help navigate state-specific regulations, and offer resources to manage risk while maximizing profitability.
Whether you are looking to add one aesthetic practice or build a portfolio of partnerships, we make it simple to enter the growing aesthetics market.
Reach out to us to explore available opportunities and see how you can expand your practice in this high-demand field.
FAQs
Q: Can any physician become a medical director for aesthetic treatments?
A: In most states, any MD or DO with an active license can serve as a medical director. However, you should understand state-specific scope of practice laws and training requirements for supervising nonphysician providers.
Q: Do I need to be on-site for every treatment?
A: Requirements vary by state. Some require direct supervision for certain procedures, while others allow remote oversight once protocols are established.
Q: What’s the earning potential as a medical director in aesthetics?
A: Many physicians earn between $100,000 and $250,000 per year, depending on the range of treatments offered and the level of involvement required.
Q: What treatments generate the highest demand in aesthetic practices?
A: Injectables such as botulinum toxin and dermal fillers consistently top the list, followed by laser hair removal, chemical peels, and skin tightening treatments. These services address various skin concerns like fine lines, uneven skin tone, and sagging skin, making them popular across multiple age groups.
Q: How can I ensure patient safety as a medical director?
A: Establish clear treatment protocols, require proper training for all providers, and stay up to date on best practices for managing complications. Regular chart reviews, emergency preparedness plans, and device maintenance also play a key role in delivering safe, effective medical treatments.
Blaz Korosec is the CEO and co-founder of Medical Director Co., a nationwide platform that connects aesthetic and wellness professionals with licensed physicians for medical oversight, supervision, and compliance support. With a background that bridges healthcare operations, regulatory compliance, and entrepreneurial growth, Blaz has worked closely with hundreds of nurses, physician assistants, and clinic owners to help them legally launch and scale medical spas, telehealth weight loss clinics, IV hydration businesses, and aesthetic practices.
Blaz holds a degree in finance from Southern Methodist University (SMU) and has built a diverse portfolio of businesses ranging from healthcare to hospitality, including a national network of RV parks and medical clinics. Through MedicalDirector.CO, he’s developed a deep understanding of the state-by-state rules that govern collaborative agreements, PC/MSO structures, telemedicine protocols, and injectable treatments—translating complex legal frameworks into easy-to-implement solutions for clinicians and business owners.
Blaz is particularly passionate about helping nurses and mid-level providers unlock business ownership opportunities, and he’s known for designing systems that streamline operations, boost revenue, and ensure long-term legal protection. His team includes former prosecutors, senior RNs, and physicians who together support a growing number of clinics across all 50 states.
When he’s not working, Blaz enjoys mountain biking, restoring properties, and exploring the outdoors with his wife. He’s based in Texas but works with clients nationwide.
