COURSE OUTLINE
Module 1 – Dermal fillers, biostimulators and complex applications
This module looks at higher level biostimulator techniques for hollow temples, forehead shaping, upper eyelid hollowing, nose and panfacial rejuvenation. A comprehensive knowledge of facial anatomy is assumed.
Unit one demonstrates procedures on the temple, forehead and glabella lines including the needle versus cannula, adverse events and managing these complications. Unit two focuses on the upper eyelid and nose (non-surgical rhinoplasty) including proportionate guides for the nose. Adverse effects are outlined. Unit three outlines panfacial rejuvenation and the ‘8 point lift’. Unit four covers non-HA collagen stimulating fillers and biostimulators. The reasons for using these fillers is outlined including issues and adverse effects. Unit five examines the use of calcium hydroxylapatite and polylactic acid and polycaprolactone. It outlines the mechanism of action for each, its uses and technique. Contraindications and aftercare are mentioned. Unit six outlines collagen stimulating fillers including danger zones, adverse effects and prevention of biofilm and nodules.
Module 2 – Introduction to facial threadlift procedures
This module introduces facial threadlifts and explains the various types of threads available in Australia. They include absorbable/non-absorbable, barbed/non-barbed and length of threads. Without favour, four techniques are included detailing the differences and application of each thread. Thread compositions are outlined for each option.
Contraindications and complications are addressed. Unit two outlines the advantages of this technique for the aging face and stresses the importance of understanding the mode of action of each thread, their differences and expected results.
Module 3 – Laser use: pigment melasma and resurfacing
This module focuses on the use of laser to treat melasma conditions including epidermal, dermal and epidermal/dermal blend. It discusses treatment options including how to achieve the best results with lasers. The use of lasers for skin rejuvenation including wrinkle/scar reduction is increasing. Non ablative lasers and ablative lasers are discussed including the different modalities and principles for both styles. Patient assessment guidelines are outlined including pre-treatment preparation, indications, contra-indications and aftercare. Clinical examples of ablative resurfacing are provided for various conditions including treating sun damage, burn and acne scarring and possible complications associated with fractional ablative resurfacing.
Module 4 – Non-aesthetic use of lasers
This module introduces the use of lasers for treating onychomycosis, warts/verrucae, snoring and sleep apnoea and some gynaecological treatments including stress urinary incontinence, vaginal relaxation syndrome, vaginal atrophy and pelvic organ prolapse. The types of lasers and laser settings are suggested for each procedure together with patient assessment considerations. Preparation for each procedure and each treatment process is outlined including clinical images and diagrams. Contraindications and non-laser options for these conditions are listed.
Module 5 – Ultrasound and radio frequency treatment
Understanding facial anatomy is critical for successful aesthetic treatment outcomes. Patient considerations include gender, race, age, medical history including previous facial treatments, face shape and other considerations. There is a detailed focus on the facial sub-units, innervation, vascularization, lymphatics and musculature systems of the face and neck. These areas are crucial when evaluating a patient for safe aesthetic treatments and determining the appropriate treatment modality. The signs and symptoms of potential adverse outcomes are included.
Module 6 – Common modalities for non-surgical body shaping
This module describes two modalities for non-surgical body contouring in detail – cryolipolysis and lipolysis. Cryolopolysis destroys fat cells and involves cooling target tissue for a specified time at a specified temperature. The lipolysis process uses lasers to break cells apart and reduces the volume of fatty tissue. The basic concepts and mechanism of action are explained. Contraindications, complications, side effects and patient assessment and procedure protocol are outlined. The use of deoxycholic acid versus cryolipolysis is discussed. Other modalities included in this module are heat generating devices, radiofrequency and high intensity microfocused ultrasound.
Module 7 – Acne and rosacea
This comprehensive unit discusses acne and includes the pathogenesis, subtypes, patient history and examination, when to investigate, treatment options including the management of side effects, management of scarring and when to refer to a specialist. It recognizes and outlines treatment options for adolescents and treatment options for post-adolescents. Diet, stress, topical agents, hormonal influences and skin care regimes are factors to consider when treating this condition.
Rosacea is discussed in the second unit. It outlines triggers and treatment options including topical and oral approaches. Laser and light therapy is considered.
Module 8 – Advanced botulinum toxin part 2
This module outlines the treatment areas for lip lines/barcode wrinkles, gummy smile, dimpled chin, masseter hypertrophy, platysmal banding/neck bands, marionette lines and chemo-resurfacing. Patient assessment and expectations are crucial considerations when determining treatment. To achieve the best results a thorough knowledge of facial anatomy, planes, dosage and technique is imperative. In each of the key treatment areas above, comprehensive instructions are outlined including handy hints. Microbotox is introduced for forehead and central T zones, cheeks, lower eyelids, jawline, neck and decolletage areas. The module concludes with listing danger points not to be ignored, to stress the importance of a comprehensive assessment of patients requesting aesthetic procedures.
Additional information: the skin therapist role
This section outlines the laser safety considerations including Australian authorities by state, administration and practice controls, risk assessment, incident reporting and compliance guide.