We recently attended the AMWC in Monaco, where the leading scientists, researchers and physicians in the field of Aesthetic and Anti-Aging Science & Medicine assemble to educate delegates from all over the world. 

Attending this congress is highly valuable, but also very confronting.

 

Why did Gippsland Cosmetic Laser Clinic send delegates?

Research in this field is constantly unfolding, and we believe that it's essential to continue studying the latest research, techniques and practices if we are to provide you with the very best results.

Although we are a small, boutique clinic, our core aim is to provide the absolute best outcomes for you, our clients.

The AMWC is divided into two parts: Symposiums and Exhibits, where the leaders in anti-ageing practice congregate, and delegates can gain insights otherwise unattainable.

 

THE SYMPOSIUMS

These lectures run from 8:30am until 6:30pm every day, across seven rooms. Talks and demonstrations are presented by hundreds of leading scientists, doctors, researchers, and developers (including some Australians).

A vast number of topics are presented, covering everything from the latest updates in Lasers and EBD (energy based devices), stem cells & genetics, controversies in botulinum toxin, life span, combination therapies, platelet rich plasma studies, stress and diet, gut and brain interactions, and much more. 

 

Numerous live demonstrations of treatments (particularly with dermal fillers) are performed by the world's leading cosmetic doctors and surgeons, sharing their personal discoveries, knowledge and techniques with the audience. 

This part of the conference is primarily attended by doctors from all over the globe, looking to improve their practice, and advance their own skills and knowledge. 

 

THE EXHIBITION

This part of the congress showcases over 300 companies representing their latest products and technology. One can find leading pharmaceutical companies such as Allergan and Mesoestetic, as well as leaders in anti-ageing Lasers and EBD such as Syneron Candela. There are also a number of companies exhibiting imaging technology, surgical equipment, skin-analysis technology, skincare products, injectable products, medical equipment, and more.

 

The exhibition area is predominantly utilised by global distributers and product developers, but also by clinic managers and practitioners wishing to see demonstrations and acquire samples of the above. 

 

 

AN OVERVIEW OF OUR PERSONAL EXPERIENCE.

The Positives

The quality of the symposiums and speakers is absolutely superb, and the information provided in these forums is invaluable. Many of the demonstrations performed, and the wealth of information presented would not otherwise be accessible.

 

It is clear that this field of research and medicine can play a positive role in so many people's lives, specifically when practitioners possess the highest ethics and skill, and use premium products and technology.

 

An additional benefit we gain from these symposiums is confirmation that we are performing our treatments at an exceptionally high level. Many of the points stressed by presenters are common errors that we know exist throughout the industry. It is reassuring to know that we are delivering such exceptionally high standards at Gippsland Cosmetic Laser Clinic.

 

It was exciting to learn that the future trend of aesthetic and anti-aging medicine aligns with our own research and services. A greater emphasis is being placed on the role of diet and nutrition, and more research is showing the huge benefits of PRP (Platelet Rich Plasma), Radio Frequency and the wider use of LED -  already available to you at Gippsland Cosmetic Laser Clinic. We are very interested in the rapidly growing popularity and success of Mesotherapy, and glad to see a 'less is more' approach being promoted regarding the use of dermal fillers.

 

Finally, being able to see the vast number of products and devices currently available is very beneficial. Not only in terms of helping to consider additional treatments we can provide in the future, but also to understand the alternative devices and products in the market, and how they compare to our own. We feel very satisfied that the choice of products, devices and treatments we bring to Gippsland remain among the best in the world.

 

 

The Negatives

As many people suspect, the beauty industry is very big, and it can be very profitable for certain companies and individuals.

This congress strongly demonstrates that our industry walks a fine line between ethics and money.

While the right ethics and intentions can provide fantastic outcomes for people, there are unfortunately many practices and practitioners that capitalise on certain people's desire to look young and beautiful. Sadly, the same low self-esteem that can be helped by good practice, can also be taken advantage of.

One can see a large number of people that have clearly had a lot of changes made to themselves over the years - much of which was probably unnecessary, now leaving them looking somewhat abnormal. These are the examples we all think of when talking about the negative effects of the cosmetic industry. While in most instances these clients would have asked specifically for this outcome, it should be the responsibility of the industry to identify when people need help and education. 

Many practitioners advise against this obsessive behaviour, and often refuse to treat people demanding it - but sadly these clients will often just go to the next practitioner, and keep trying until they find someone that will do it. Sadly, there is always someone that will take their money.

 

OUR FINAL THOUGHT

There is no doubt that the Aesthetic and Anti-Aging Industry has a positive role to play in our society. People enjoy looking good, and everyone has the right to feel good about themselves. Whether it be someone that requires intervention to help open an eye that is permanently shut, or to remove scarring or visible abnormalities that fuel a poor sense of self esteem, right through to people that just enjoy a freshen-up occasionally, and some help warding off the visible effects of stress and premature aging.

In the right hands, modern science can provide the most amazing, beautiful, natural results and leave people feeling and looking truly fantastic. When performed correctly, it is virtually impossible to tell someone has had any treatment at all - simply that they look healthy, happy and fantastic.

We ALL have a role to play in helping this industry achieve a high standard.

Practitioners must have the very best intentions, and put the client before profit every time. And equally, the client must ensure that they have researched their practitioners, treatments, devices and products - so they know how to choose the very best.

Choosing a practitioner based on price is almost certainly the worst way to decide. Low prices virtually always reflect low-grade products, untrained staff, poor-quality machines, poor customer care and ultimately disappointing results. When it comes to your face and body, 'Cheap' is not the look you should be after!

We guarantee that at Gippsland Cosmetic Laser Clinic you will never feel pressured into having treatment, and we will always put your needs before profit every single time. We only use the very best devices and products available, so that we can ALL be sure you will get the best results you can achieve anywhere in the world.

 

Anita Turner (Gippsland Cosmetic Laser Clinic) and Nicky Tzimas (Cosmetic Professional Development Institute of Australia)