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Injecting knowledge

Editorial assistant Michelle Duffield reached out to industry professionals to hear their opinions on the importance of hands-on training in aesthetics

You can learn a lot from text books and online. However, for professionals performing invasive procedures, understanding the details behind each treatment, such as the feeling of resistance, the pressure needed for the needle, and how to carefully remove it, is what separates the good from the great. After speaking with many professionals, we found that this niche knowledge, combined with an understanding of different anatomical structures, is perfected through the art of hands-on practice.

Another important value that goes hand-in-hand with this is the patient's experience. Without physical training, practitioners cannot develop their own comfortable and safe injecting technique. With practice, comes the ability to accurately judge whether the injection feels as it should for the patient, emphasising that the beauty behind this line of work, is the personal aspect. AI is good, but it can't perform injections yet!

Dr Jenny Doyle, consultant oculoplastic surgeon and founder of The Clinic Holland Park, emphasises this shift in training standards. As the head trainer for Ameela polynucleotides and a key opinion leader for Sciton, Dr Doyle hosts regular laser masterclasses for competent injectors and laser practitioners. The main feedback from her delegates highlights the value of hands-on experience courses, which not only improve technique but also provide valuable insights from other providers. "Gone are the days of 'see one, do one, teach one!' Practitioners now realise the value of continuous hands-on training," she says.

One significant lesson learned outside the classroom is that there is no one-sizefits-all approach. New practitioners often start by learning a standard pattern for each facial area. However, creating treatments tailored to individual patients differs every time, emphasising that an injector cannot become a skilled aesthetic professional without experience in hands-on training.

TEXTBOOKS VS REAL-WORLD EXPERIENCES

Consultant plastic surgeon, Mr Tunc Tiryaki, also stresses the indispensable nature of hands-on training in his field. His journey began in classrooms with textbooks, but his true mastery came from real-world experiences. "Textbooks can teach techniques, but they can't teach how to listen to a patient's concerns and translate them into results that boost their confidence and improve their lives," Mr Tiryaki explains. He underscores the importance of adaptability, noting that “No two surgeries are the same and sometimes unexpected situations can arise”. By guiding new surgeons through real procedures, he hopes to instil the same level of precision, adaptability, and empathy that has defined his career.

Rebecca Elsdon, skin expert and owner of Re/Skin Clinic, explains how "Theoretical knowledge provides the foundation, but practical experience is essential to master success in this industry”. Real-life practice is key to tailoring treatments effectively, refining skills and your ability to understand and connect with clients leads to better outcomes and higher patient satisfaction. "Beyond technical skills, being able to listen to clients, understand their concerns, and build trust is crucial," she adds.

Dr Steven Land, clinic director at Novellus Aesthetics, is passionate about the need for high-quality training in aesthetic medicine. He criticises the acceptance of minimal training from nonmedically qualified practitioners can have serious repercussions for some patients. "Gaining adequate skills from a one-day course covering multiple procedures is foolish and negligent," he states. Dr Land highlights the breadth of knowledge required to teach the next generation of injectors, and the training needed to succeed in this industry.

With 24 years of nursing experience, aesthetic nurse Mel Recchia echoes these sentiments, emphasising the unique aspects within her line of work, such as dealing with new physical appearance issues and potential mental health concerns like body dysmorphia. "Anatomy is vital, as you might work in areas never experienced in the NHS," she notes. “Good education in aesthetics is essential in a poorly regulated field.” We have all heard of some horror stories out there and Recchia is just another practitioner shocked to see so many poorly trained practitioners with clients.

STAY UP-TO-DATE

"Staying updated with the latest techniques and protocols is crucial for delivering the best results and ensuring patient safety," says Caroline Hall, a nurse prescriber and clinic owner. Hall's commitment to education is reflected in her role as a national clinical advanced trainer for DermaFocus, where she trains other practitioners on correct techniques and safety measures. "Proper education empowers practitioners to use advanced products effectively, maximising benefits and minimising risks," she asserts.

While formal education lays the foundation, it is hands-on experiences that truly shape a practitioner within the field of aesthetic medicine. Continuous in-person training, guided by experienced mentors, is essential for developing the skills, adaptability, and empathy needed to deliver the highest standards of patient care within this evolving field.

This article appears in September 2024

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This article appears in...
September 2024
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Welcome to the September issue of Aesthetic Medicine Magazine
After a refreshing summer break, we’re thrilled to
Meet the experts
The Aesthetic Medicine editorial board’s clinical expertise and diverse range of specialities help ensure the magazine meets the needs of the readers. In this issue, we have received guidance from the following members:
HOT OFF THE PRESS
Study highlights AI’s potential in clinical settings Researchers
Injecting knowledge
Editorial assistant Michelle Duffield reached out to industry professionals to hear their opinions on the importance of hands-on training in aesthetics
Trend Spotlight: Laser highlighting
Editorial assistant Michelle Duffield talks to Dr Zoya Awan about the latest hair bleaching technique to appear on social media
PREPARING THE SKIN AND PROMOTING HEALING
Why peri-procedural skincare is big in the US – and growing in the UK 1,2
OUT & ABOUT
The Ardour Clinic invited guests, including editor Anna Dobbie, to celebrate, educate and rejuvenate, as well as enjoy a bespoke mini treatment. Accompanied by a delicious grazing board and champagne,
Aesthetic Medicine North
The North’s leading trade show for aesthetic professionals is back for 2024
A world of Clinical Education
Aesthetic Medicine extends its clinical education to two days for AM North 2024, with injectable live demos and medical-only workshops coming to Manchester this autumn
MAXIMISING THE VALUE OF YOUR PRACTICE
Here are Verilo’s top strategies to maximise the saleability of your practice
THE BENEFITS OF SYNTHETIC EXOSOMES
Dr Brendan Khong explains how adding exosomes has benefited his practice
SHOW PREVIEW
We round up the products, treatments, offers and new launches you will find at AM North 2024
Time after TIME
Editor Anna Dobbie visits Dr Manav and Yogeeta Bawa at their new location in Woodford to understand their ethos and discover the secret of working with your spouse
The Princess and the PRP
Regenerative expert, nurse Claudia McGloin answers all your burning questions
Male ANDROGENETIC ALOPECIA
Over the past decade there has been an increase in demand for hair regrowth treatments. Androgenic alopecia (AGA) is one of the main causes of hair loss and accounts for 80% of t
FIVE KEY ASPECTS TO AESTHETIC BUSINESS SUCCESS
With a legacy spanning almost three decades, Hamilton Fraser has been insuring aesthetic practitioners and clinics throughout the evolution of the sector. A key part of the company’s ethos is supporti
CELL OPTIMISATION: skin
Dr Mayoni Gooneratne explores cell optimisation and its role in skin rejuvenation
TRACELESS WEIGHTLESS moisture
Simone Shoffman, head of education at Healthxchange, answers questions on Obagi Hydrate Light Weightless Gel Cream
THE RISK OF non-surgical rhinoplasties
Dr Juliah Tbarani O’Shea considers whether using a cannula is safer than a needle
THE BENEFITS OF Pharmacists in aesthetics
Holly Armstrong looks at the integral role of pharmacists in aesthetic medicine
THE EVOLUTION OF EDUCATION
Harley Academy’s Dr Marcus Mehta sheds light on why staying updated is crucial to providing the best patient care
STOPPING sexual harassment
Croner senior business development manager Nick Babington explains how the Worker Protection Act 2023 will safeguard against sexual harassment
THE IMPORTANCE OF NUTRITION IN SKINCARE
When treating the skin, it is crucial to prioritise nutrition, both internal and topical
Illuminating LED
Dr Patrick Treacy, a renowned f igure in aesthetic medicine, is celebrated for his innovative contributions to LED therapy. He developed award-winning procedures like the Dublin Lift and the PLUS Tech
THE SMART WAY TO MANAGE FINANCE
The long-term benefits of providing financial options with 0% interest
RETINOID REGUL ATIONS
The umbrella term ‘retinoids’ refers to compounds of both natural, biologically active forms of vitamin A (retinol, retinal, and retinoic acid) as well as synthetic analogues of adapalene. This holy g
Treatment review: SERENITY AND STRENGTH HOLISTIC STRESS MASTERY
Editor Anna Dobbie visits Anna Miller at Ardour Clinic to target her stress
Treatment review: SPA AFTERNOON AND COLONIC HYDROTHERAPY
Editor Anna Dobbie had a relaxing afternoon of treatments at Angel Clinics’ Aesthetics Wellness, including a session on the Angel of Water
High-tech facials: SKINSTORM FACIAL AT LAMURE AESTHETIC CLINIC
Contributing reporter Kezia Parkins went to Lamure Aesthetic Clinic to experience her first Skinstorm Facial
PRODUCT NEWS
Supplier of aesthetic products, 4T Medical, has announced the UK launch of Eve, a multi-platform aesthetic device developed and manufactured in South Korea. The Eve integrates four technologies: hydra
Are you thriving or struggling?
Business coach Amy Gordon offers advice to clinic owners, whether business is good or bad
7 common insurance mistakes
Hands up if you read the small print. Whether it’s agreeing to terms and conditions or accepting cookie notifications, many of us are guilty of not fully reading the wording before clicking ‘accept’
Mental health in the workplace
David Banaghan, co-founder and interim chief executive at Occupop1 looks at how to make the workplace a safe place to discuss mental health issues
FOUNDATIONS OF success
Leadership consultant Marcus Haycock gives his four foundational principles of success for individuals, teams, and businesses
ASK Alex
“Where do I distribute educational information and content for patients?”
Looking for back issues?
Browse the Archive >

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