About my background 

I graduated in dentistry in 2005 from the Ukrainian Medical Stomatological Academy. In 2009 I moved to the UK, initially helping my husband run an aesthetic clinic in the Midlands while studying for my Overseas Registration Exam with the GDC. I became 11, interested in aesthetic medicine, and decided to train with Cosmetic Courses. 

My working week

My week is split between two dental aractices, one in Leicester and one in .lottingharn, where I also offer a range of racial and body aesthetic treatments to my patients. I'm also an aesthetic doctor for a lationwide chain of cosmetic clinics, and im in the process of establishing my own 'esthetic clinic in West Bridgford. And in lanuary this year, F was delighted to join the .earn of trainers at Cosmetic Courses. 

Why I decided to train with Cosmetic Courses 

Itwas my husband who introduced me o Cosmetic Courses. He completed his )espoke training with them in 2009, and .vas very happy with all aspects of the =ourse. I started with foundation Botox 3nd fillers, then went on to Genuine Dermaroller and bespoke one-to-one raining in dermal fillers and the 8 Point Lift. 

How I found the training experience. 

The courses were very well organised and felt confident enough to perform treatments straight after training. The trainers are very knowledgeable and offer continued support after your training. You can always ask them for advice or a second opinion. I had one case when I needed urgent advice and even though it was a Saturday, I was able to speak to a trainer and ask their opinion. 

What I enjoy most about my aesthetic work. 

I'm very passionate about aesthetic medicine and enjoy every aspect. I spend a lot of time in initial consultations, as I like to educate patients about the treatment process as well as the causes of their specific issues. 

Regarding specific treatments, I enjoy dermal fillers the most, with lip fillers and cheeks being my favourite. These treatments really need a creative eye, which makes them particularly satisfying. 

"It's very rewarding to see the results and the difference it makes to people's lives."

What I'd say to other dentists thinking about training in aesthetics. 

I'd advise them to go ahead and book a place on a course. You'll never know if aesthetics suits you unless you try. Start  with basic training: a one day course that will give you some hands-on practice and develop your skills. 

A Botox and fillers course is the best place to start, as these are the most popular treatments. As your practice grows, it's important to offer a range of treatments, microdermabrasion, skin peels and micro-needling are all worth looking into. 

As dentists, we're in a perfect position to integrate facial aesthetics into our practice. From treatment of bruxism to complementing your smile designs with lip fillers, it can all be done with facial aesthetic treatments. 

Aesthetic medicine will help you attract more private patients, transform existing NHS patients into private, make your practice stand out - and for Associate Dentists it also makes a great addition to your CV. 

BRITISH DENTAL JOURNAL MARCH 13 2015