Ready to Enter the World of Aesthetics?

Our profession has steadily expanded beyond its traditional focus on vision correction and eye health, and today, many optometrists offer a wider range of services, including aesthetic procedures. Ocular aesthetics is an exciting new area to explore, but diving headfirst can be overwhelming. In this article, I offer points to consider before you make the decision to add ocular aesthetics to your practice, as well as a slow-start plan to set you up for success if you do decide aesthetics is worth investing in.

WHY CONSIDER AESTHETICS?

The decision to incorporate aesthetics into your practice must include careful consideration of your practice’s unique value proposition and a well-designed plan for implementation. Benefits may include enhanced patient care, professional growth, and financial stability. Aesthetics is its own juggernaut of a field, highly competitive and foreign to most ODs, so this decision should not be made lightly.

Enhanced Patient Care

Certain aesthetic procedures can address concerns related to facial aging, which can affect patients’ self-confidence and overall well-being. Offering these services, while still being mindful of the eye, allows you to provide a more holistic approach to patient care.

Professional Growth

Learning about aesthetic procedures expands your knowledge base and enables you to offer a wider range of services, increasing your professional satisfaction and potentially attracting new patients. Offering aesthetics in my practice has taught me to look at ingredients more critically and consider the effects of facial procedures on the ocular surface, thereby increasing my confidence and patient trust.

Financial Sustainability

Adding aesthetics services can diversify your practice’s revenue stream, contributing to its long-term financial sustainability.

START SMALL

You’ve given it proper thought, you’ve weighed all the necessary factors, and you’ve decided to forge ahead. For ODs interested in incorporating aesthetics into their practice, a slow and focused approach is key. The following are some baby steps you can take to ease your way into this dynamic area.

Gauge Your Interest and Goals

Begin by honestly evaluating your motivations. What aspects of aesthetics appeal to you? Do you want to offer specific services, or cater to a broader range of patient needs? Also, familiarize yourself with the different types of aesthetics procedures offered by ODs. Research relevant legal and ethical considerations, potential risks and benefits, and the specific training required for each procedure. Finally, consider what sets you apart. Do you have a specific area of expertise or personal interest that can inform your aesthetic offerings?

Build Your Knowledge Base

Enroll in accredited courses and workshops related to the specific procedures you’re interested in. It’s also helpful to connect with experienced ODs who offer aesthetic services. Observe their practices, ask questions, and gain valuable insights. Regularly read journals, attend conferences, and participate in online forums to stay informed about the latest advances in the field. I personally learn the most from following aesthetics podcasts and Instagram accounts.

Prepare Your Practice

Make sure your practice adheres to all local regulations and licensing requirements for offering aesthetic procedures. You’ll also need to invest in the necessary equipment and supplies to safely perform the procedures you choose to offer. Develop a strategy to inform your existing patient base and attract new patients interested in aesthetic services. Ensure your marketing materials are truthful, ethical, and appropriate for your audience. Additional brochures or pamphlets that connect eye care and skin care will help establish patient trust.

Start Small and Scale Gradually

Start by offering a limited number of well-understood, basic procedures, such as facials for patients with rosacea. Prioritize mastering your chosen procedures before expanding your offerings. This ensures patient safety and builds your reputation for quality care. Take the time to understand each patient’s individual needs and preferences. Provide thorough consultations, answer questions comprehensively, and manage expectations effectively.

Prioritize Patient Safety

Be sure to regularly engage in continuing education to maintain your skills and knowledge on the latest techniques and safety protocols. Ensure patients fully understand the potential risks and benefits of each procedure before obtaining their informed consent. Develop a comprehensive risk management plan to identify and mitigate potential risks associated with aesthetic procedures. Check in with patients to make sure their experience is positive.

THE RIGHT APPROACH MAKES ALL THE DIFFERENCE

By taking baby steps such as those described earlier, you can confidently navigate aesthetics in today’s world. For more reading on ocular aesthetics, see Additional Insights. Lastly, here are some take-home points:

• Building a successful aesthetics practice takes time and dedication. Be patient, consistent, and committed to continuous learning and improvement. Take a slow and steady approach.
• Patient safety should always be your top priority. Never perform a procedure you haven’t received proper training for, and always prioritize obtaining informed consent before proceeding. Only outsource procedures to licensed individuals who you can engage in a working relationship with and whose services you can trust.
• Uphold the highest ethical standards in your practice, adhering to all relevant regulations and ensuring the well-being and safety of your patients.
• Seek guidance, support, and continuous learning. Don’t hesitate to ask for help from experienced colleagues, mentors, and professional organizations. The field of aesthetics is constantly evolving. Commit to ongoing education and skill development to stay updated and informed on the latest advances and best practices.