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.