Hi Style’s commitment to safety in the beauty and aesthetics industry is not just a priority—it’s our responsibility. Editor Mary Jane O’Regan, recently honoured with a High Commendation at the Safety in Beauty Awards 2023, continues to champion this mission by ensuring safety and transparency are paramount for practitioners and clients alike.
In this special interview, Mary-Jane speaks with Prof. Dr. Patrick Treacy, a globally respected figure in aesthetic medicine and one of Hi Style’s Men of the Year 2024 honourees, who will be celebrated at our Most Stylish Celebration on 23rd November 2024.
Recently recognised with the prestigious Aesthetics Pioneer Award at the 2024 Aesthetics Awards, and a Lifetime Achievement Award from China, Dr. Treacy is author of “Aesthetic Complications and Other Interesting Cases: From the Physician Voted ‘Top Aesthetic Doctor in the World’. His book is an invaluable resource for medical professionals, offering detailed case studies and insights into managing complications associated with facial soft-tissue augmentation and the safe use of dermal fillers.
Dr. Treacy emphasises a message crucial to all in the aesthetics industry: Patient safety must always come first. As practitioners, they are entrusted not only with enhancing beauty but also with safeguarding their patients’ confidence, well-being, and ultimately, their lives. This duty requires top-notch care and comprehensive complication management for every patient.
Key to Dr. Treacy’s philosophy is the importance of never becoming complacent. Every patient is unique, and even experienced hands can encounter complications. Staying vigilant and committed to continual learning is essential in a field that evolves rapidly with new techniques, products, and technologies.
Dr. Treacy underscores that complication management should be central to every practice, with clear protocols, tools, and medications on hand to address potential issues. Transparent patient communication, especially regarding risks and possible complications, builds trust and ensures patients are informed and reassured throughout their care. Being prepared for the unexpected and collaborating with specialists when necessary underscores the strength of a practitioner committed to holistic, patient-focused care.
This interview provides insights from Dr. Treacy’s decades-long expertise, serving as a vital guide for anyone dedicated to advancing safety and excellence in aesthetic medicine.
Q1: What advice would you give to new practitioners entering the field of aesthetic medicine to minimize the risk of complications?
For new practitioners entering the field of aesthetic medicine, it is crucial to have a strong foundation in anatomy and a comprehensive understanding of the products and techniques used. Understanding the vascular anatomy, especially in the face, is important for preventing complications such as vascular occlusion, which is one of the most serious risks associated with dermal fillers. Start by taking comprehensive training courses that cover both theoretical knowledge and hands-on practice.
Consider seeking mentorship from experienced practitioners to observe their techniques and learn from their approach to managing complications. Conduct a thorough patient assessment to identify contraindications and set realistic expectations.
Make sure that patients are fully informed about the procedure, potential risks, and management of complications. Familiarise yourself with managing complications, such as using hyaluronidase for filler-related issues or having protocols in place for allergic reactions or infections.
Keeping an emergency kit on hand and staying updated on the latest treatment recommendations are crucial. The field of aesthetic medicine is constantly evolving. Stay up to date with the latest research, attend conferences, and participate in workshops to refine your skills and stay informed about new products and techniques.
Q2: Your book also addresses using unapproved products in the aesthetics field. What are the risks associated with these products, and how can practitioners ensure they are using safe materials?
Using unapproved products in the field of aesthetics carries significant risks for both practitioners and patients. These products may lack the safety evaluations, clinical trials, and quality assurance standards required for approval by regulatory bodies such as the FDA, EMA, or national health authorities.
As a result, they may be associated with unpredictable outcomes and severe complications. Only approved products may meet approved aesthetic materials’ stringent purity and quality standards. This can result in variations in product consistency, impurities, or contamination, which could lead to adverse reactions, infections, or ineffective results.
Due to the lack of comprehensive clinical testing, unapproved products may provoke allergic reactions, granuloma formation, or delayed onset complications, such as nodules and migration of the filler material. These risks are amplified if counterfeit products are produced in unregulated facilities.
Q3. In your book, you review a wide range of interesting aesthetic cases. Could you share one particularly challenging case you encountered and how you approached managing the complication?
In 2006, Michael Jackson sought assistance to have hyaluronic acid fillers removed from his face, which had previously been administered in the United States. His request came ahead of his planned meeting with the Queen, scheduled just before the premiere of Casino Royale being held at London’s Odeon Leicester Square Theatre.
Our clinic, having more than a decade of experience with these fillers, successfully performed the removal, despite the product being newly approved in the United States at the time. However, following the procedure, Michael became reserved and chose to stay in his hotel, ultimately not attending the scheduled meeting with the Queen.
Q4. With the rapid advancements in aesthetic technology, how do you keep up to date with the latest developments in managing complications?
Staying up to date with the rapid advancements in aesthetic technology, especially in managing complications, requires a multi-faceted approach. First and foremost, I actively participate in global conferences and symposiums, where the latest research and technologies are presented and discussed by experts in the field. These events provide invaluable insights into emerging trends, techniques, and complication management protocols.
Additionally, I place a strong emphasis on continuing professional education by engaging with medical literature, peer-reviewed journals, and case studies. This helps me stay informed about the most recent advancements and evidence-based practices. I also collaborate with colleagues from around the world to share knowledge and experiences, which often brings new perspectives on handling complex cases.
Furthermore, I believe in contributing to the body of knowledge through my own research and clinical practice. By regularly publishing findings and sharing real-world case studies, I not only stay at the forefront of innovation but also ensure that I am continually refining my approach to managing complications effectively.
Finally, as an aesthetic practitioner, I ensure that my clinic incorporates the latest, most reliable technology, but always with patient safety as the foremost consideration. It’s not just about adopting new technology, but about doing so thoughtfully and responsibly, with a clear understanding of both its benefits and potential risks.
Q5. In your book, you mention the importance of a holistic approach to managing complications. Could you elaborate on what that entails and how it benefits patient outcomes?
The holistic approach to managing complications, as I discuss in my book, involves looking beyond the immediate symptoms of a complication and addressing the broader aspects of patient care. This method integrates not only the physical treatment but also the psychological and emotional well-being of the patient.
When we encounter complications, especially in aesthetic medicine, it’s essential to consider the patient as a whole. This means understanding their concerns, anxieties, and the impact the complication may have on their overall quality of life. A purely clinical approach may resolve the physical issue, but without acknowledging the emotional toll, the patient may not feel fully supported or satisfied with the outcome.
Holistic management involves:
- Comprehensive Diagnosis: It’s critical to correctly identify the root cause of the complication, considering the patient’s medical history, lifestyle, and potential psychological factors.
- Collaborative Care: In some cases, complications may require a multi-disciplinary approach. For example, working with dermatologists, plastic surgeons, or even mental health professionals ensures that the patient receives well-rounded care tailored to their needs.
- Patient Education and Involvement: Educating patients on their condition and involving them in the decision-making process fosters trust and ensures they feel more in control. This can significantly reduce anxiety and lead to better compliance with post-treatment care.
- Emotional Support: Complications in aesthetic procedures can be distressing for patients. Offering empathy and ensuring that patients have the psychological support they need, whether through counselling or regular follow-ups, can improve their overall recovery experience.
By adopting this holistic approach, we not only address the complication more effectively but also enhance the patient’s overall satisfaction and long-term outcomes. This comprehensive care model ensures patients feel heard, supported, and cared for in every aspect of their journey, which is key to achieving the best possible result
Q6. How can aesthetic clinics establish a protocol to effectively manage complications that arise during treatments?
Establishing a robust protocol for managing complications in aesthetic clinics is essential to ensure patient safety, build trust, and achieve the best outcomes. Key steps include comprehensive training for staff on up-to-date techniques and complication management, thorough pre-treatment assessments, and a clear informed consent process to educate patients on risks. Clinics should have protocols for early complication recognition, accessible emergency kits, and detailed documentation of every step. Multidisciplinary support networks, regular post-treatment follow-ups, and open patient communication are also critical. By fostering continuous learning and regularly refining protocols, clinics can effectively manage complications and uphold high standards of care.
Q7. What role does aftercare play in preventing complications, and what advice do you usually give your patients post-procedure?
Aftercare is essential for preventing complications and achieving the best outcomes in aesthetic procedures. Effective aftercare involves clear patient education, tailored instructions on wound care, medication, and activity restrictions, along with regular follow-up visits to monitor recovery and address any issues promptly. Specific guidelines help prevent common complications like infection, swelling, and pigmentation issues. Patients are advised to avoid smoking, alcohol, and sun exposure, maintain hydration, and use gentle skincare products to support healing. Empowering patients through education and open communication ensures they are active participants in their recovery, minimizing risks and enhancing treatment results.
Q8. You’ve been involved in training and teaching others in the field. What are the main gaps in training for aesthetic practitioners regarding managing complications, and how can they be addressed?
Training in complication management is essential for aesthetic practitioners, but current programs often lack depth in this area. Key gaps include insufficient focus on managing complications, inadequate emphasis on early recognition, inconsistent industry standards, limited training in patient communication, lack of hands-on experience, over-reliance on protocols, and scarce ongoing education. Addressing these gaps requires in-depth, practical modules on complication scenarios, early detection skills, and standardized curriculum across the industry. Including patient communication skills, flexible case-based learning, and hands-on workshops would improve preparedness. Encouraging continuous learning through mentorship and advanced training further supports practitioners in delivering safe, high-quality care for optimal patient outcomes.
Q9. Finally, what message would you like to give to those in the aesthetics industry about patient safety and managing complications?
The message I want to convey to everyone in the aesthetics industry is simple but crucial: Patient safety must always come first. As aesthetic practitioners, we are entrusted with people’s confidence, well-being, and, ultimately, their lives. The responsibility that comes with performing any treatment, no matter how routine, is immense. Our duty is to ensure that every patient is treated with the highest standard of care, and that includes being fully prepared to manage any complications that may arise.
