It is not often that I take time away from the clinic at short notice. However, I was beyond excited to have been invited and sponsored by Allergan to attend the MD Codes DYNA Bangkok tour, and grateful to my clients who were understanding when our team asked on my behalf to reschedule their appointments with me so I can travel to Thailand. What a privilege it was to be one of only 3 New Zealand Cosmetic Medicine Injectors to attend from Australasia!
Dr Mauricio De Maio travels all over the world to teach. During his introduction speech, he reminded the (maybe) 500 strong crowd of doctors (and a few of us nurses) all over Asia that Southeast Asia – specifically Bangkok – is THE region to be in for our industry.
His Doctorate on Facial Palsy was granted in 2006, and in the same year, published his BotulinumtoxinA paper on fixing facial asymmetry from facial palsy. He continued to inject more patients, learning more and putting knowledge together for MD Codes. Dr de Maio later on went to China and had a patient who was very happy with her face, however during the consultation, relayed via translator that her complaint was about her facial features when she is smiling! The maestro Dr Mauricio found this case too complex and found it technically challenging. He did not treat at that time, and instead to go and study first, reviewing his thesis. He immersed himself in understanding muscle activity, the power of correct placement of Juvederm and understood how to decrease muscle action.
In 2011, Dr de Maio visited Korea and treated patients there. When reviewing before and after photos of animated expressions, that’s when he realised that HA fillers could organise and direct muscle movement!
He goes on to regale the crowd with questions on how the muscles move, insertion, origin, and listening to either crickets, or nervous giggles that mask uncertainty. He reminds the crowd to relax, and not to worry – that he will help us review, go back to studying. He shared with much pageantry that during his time, doctors studied, studied and studied. Nowadays, he said that doctors are busy dancing and dancing on TikTok! He asked his production team to dim the lights in the auditorium, and for us to focus on what he has prepared for us – a video with music – for us to study, not dance to! Well, he said you can dance if you like, but I want you to keep an eye on the colours, and understand. The music was classical, almost hypnotic as the colour-coded muscle movement flashed on stage. Very demure. Very mindful.
What Is MD Codes DYNA?
Built upon the original MD Codes by Dr Mauricio De Maio, after almost a decade of further research and study, Dr De Maio introduced a dynamic approach to facial injections. MD Codes DYNA (shorthand for Dynamic Movement) is the improved injecting language by that focuses on:
· Facial expressions and muscle movement during animation (smiling, frowning or baby-cry look, and kissing/pouting lips).
· Precise product placement in relation to muscle fibres.
· Modulation of facial expression to achieve natural-looking results and avoid unnatural or frozen appearances.
These injecting techniques are based on principles of how facial muscles and expressions change over time, and using chemical and mechanical modulation of muscle activity to enhance natural movement of the face and emotional expressions.
I sat in an auditorium of doctors, proudly part of the team of nurses and doctors from Australia and New Zealand. Watching, listening, recording and absorbing as much as I could as Dr Mauricio De Maio, supported by a team of doctor-moderators, presented live on stage. Four models, spread over two full days, all had unbalanced expressions on animation, assessed and injected live on stage. It was like a drug I could not have enough of! Full disclosure, the only “drugs” I could not have enough of were the pain management drugs I had during labour for my three children!
The depth of insight, precision in technique, and artistry in treatment planning that Dr Mauricio De Maio presented were truly next level! The industry-famous, Australia-based Dr Jake Sloane shared with the AU-NZ Allergan group at the conclusion of the conference – that we are VERY lucky to receive such elite education, as it isn’t often a privilege provided by others.
I left Bangkok feeling energized, with a renewed passion for aesthetic medicine and a deeper appreciation for the power of individualized, functional rejuvenation. While it has been a few weeks since that trip, I am busy preparing to strategically share these learnings with our high-performance team. Not just to inform – but to inspire new ways of thinking and to elevate the care we provide to our patients here at The Face Place.
Why Is It Important?
While our team prides ourselves with delivering bespoke treatments according to individual facial dynamics, MD DYNA Codes can also help us prevent or balance asymetrical outcomes during facial expressions after completing dermal filler treatments. We will not only deliver natural looking results, but also natural, expressive and emotionally positive results!
In New Zealand, Bell’s palsy is estimated to affect approximately 1 in 60 people at some point in their lives. Our team, under the guidance of Dr Cat, enjoys the trust of many clients who have forms of facial palsy to receive treatments from us to manage hyperkinesis or soften the signs of ageing combined with muscle atrophy on the affected side. I am excited to integrate the transformative concepts of MD Codes DYNA into our team’s practice, to further enhance our patients’ exceptional experience under our care.
Queza Bernardo, Advanced Cosmedicine Nurse
Botox®, Prescription Medicine
Botox® treatments work by relaxing facial muscles that cause wrinkles and lines when you smile or frown. Botox® is a prescription medicine containing 100 units of Botulinum Toxin Type A. Botox® has risks and benefits. Ask your doctor if Botox is right for you.
All medicines, medical devices and treatments carry risks and benefits. Individual results will vary. Botox® is not a funded medicine. For product information check with your Cosmetic Nurse or Doctor. For further information visit https://www.medsafe.govt.nz/regulatory/ProductDetail.asp?ID=1753
Supplier Allergan Aesthetics, an Abbvie company, Auckland
As a trainer in aesthetic medicine, one of the most rewarding parts of my role is seeing a new nurse or practitioner walk into the room full of nerves… and walk out feeling empowered.
Over the years, I’ve met so many nurses and healthcare practitioners who are eager to learn the art and science of neuromodulators, but there’s one common thread I hear time and again:
“I’m so scared I’ll make a mistake.”
“What if I hit a wrong muscle or cause asymmetry?”
“I’ve done a course before, but I still don’t feel confident injecting.”
“How do I go from textbook learning to treating real people safely?”
And honestly, I get it.
When you’re dealing with faces, real lives, real emotions and it’s not just about technique. It’s about trust. It’s about confidence. And as a new practitioner, it’s completely normal to feel overwhelmed by responsibility.
This is exactly why our neuromodulator course isn’t just another “tick-the-box” training. I created it from a trainer’s perspective, based on the real struggles I see new injectors face week after week.
Here’s what I often say to my students:
You’re not supposed to be perfect. You’re supposed to be teachable. We start by mastering the fundamentals, in depth anatomy, product selection, and full facial assessment, then layer it with real clinical practice. With each model you treat under supervision, step by step, you’ll develop the confidence you need, in a supportive and safe learning environment. With every session, you’ll gain clarity and assurance in your abilities, without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. Confidence doesn’t happen overnight, but with guided practice and real support, it comes naturally.
What makes our course different?
1. It’s mentorship, not just a module: You get in-depth theoretical content and immersive hands-on practice, with real models and real-time feedback.
2. You’ll learn the why, not just the how: Understanding the science of neuromodulators means you can adapt your technique with precision and safety.
3. It’s a safe space to ask “silly” questions: Because there’s no such thing as silly when you’re learning to inject someone’s face.
4. Post-course support matters: You won’t be left alone after your certificate. We offer ongoing mentoring and community so you can continue to grow, case by case.
Final thoughts as a trainer:
If you’re reading this and feeling hesitation in your gut, know that it’s valid. But also know that you’re capable. You don’t have to do it alone.
The right education and training don’t just teach technique, it reshapes your clinical thinking, sharpens your eye for detail, deepens patient connection, and empowers you to step confidently into your role as an aesthetic practitioner. You don’t need to wait until you “feel ready”. You need a course that will get you there, one patient at a time—with safety, clarity, integrity and real-world application every step of the way.
Interested in our next Neuromodulator Training Intake?
Our next course runs on July 28th & 29th, and spots are filling quickly.
You can learn more and register via our website, or if you have questions, feel free to reach out anytime, our team is always happy to help and will get back to you as soon as we can. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to strengthen your foundation, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Always the bridesmaid, never the bride. Although I haven’t made it to the big day quite yet, I’ve been a bridesmaid enough times that I understand what it takes to make sure it all goes off without a hitch. It’s understandable with all the people management, event planning and fashion decisions, your skin maybe the last thing you think of attending to, but great skin doesn’t happen overnight. You wouldn’t book a wedding venue the week before and that’s not the time to start thinking about your skin either. A good makeup artist will tell you; the base (your skin) is one of the most important factors for ensuring your makeup glides and lasts the distance. There is nothing like having smooth glowing skin on your special day…or every day for that matter
I have helped many brides and grooms over my 17+ years working as a Skin Therapist and there is nothing more gratifying than helping someone feel their best and most confident on one of the most memorable days of their lives. Here is what I’d do if I was going to be walking down the aisle…
Planning
Much like you are planning a holiday, or wedding, you need to sit down and map out the time, budget and what you would like to achieve. Always start with a consultation, this is important to clarify your goals and have a realistic understanding of what can be achieved in your timeframe. And yes, the sooner you do this the better. That hyperpigmentation you’ve had for 5 years can’t be erased in a matter of several months…although you know we will always do our best! The more lead up time you allow, the better the outcome.
Homecare
Homecare is always going to be #1. A carefully curated homecare regime is completely underestimated. This is the first and most integral part of the plan. I have consulted with many clients on their homecare alone and with enough time to progress your active ingredients, you absolutely can make significant change. SPF, antioxidants and Vitamin A will always be crucial to make changes but need to be selected based on your individual needs.
In clinic treatments
Skin Peels are an essential on the list. Even a handful of Peels, alongside correct homecare can help to brighten and refine skin. The advantage of Peels is there is a menu of options we can choose to treat a multitude of skin concerns.
Skin Re-modeller’s or Boosters are a hot topic now and for good reason. It is an injectable that is undetectable, loading the skin with amino acids and hyaluronic acid that help it to regenerate faster and become more resilient. I have seen my clients skin respond faster and more receptive to their other skin treatments. I would typically do this towards the start of my treatment plan, when starting homecare is ideal. This allows ample time for the treatment to start taking effect and be at its peak on your special day.
Skin Needling for me is the gold standard of skin rejuvenation that gives results for diffused redness, pigmentation, fine lines, texture, and some! It uses your skins wound healing process to lay down the type of collagen we all want more of. This isn’t going to yield maximum results for several months so requires some planning and preparation.
If you have ever experienced the blissful 17 minutes and 40 seconds of Healite LED rejuvenation, you know I couldn’t leave this one out. I use it with all my treatments to assist with recovery. It also helps to stimulate glycosaminoglycans, basically a family of molecules that assist with hydration, structure, and overall cell functioning, which goes far beyond the skin. This is the perfect way to ensure your skin is hydrated and calm, with no downtime – just a relaxing shoulder massage and warm light that is actually good for your skin. I would be booking myself in to boost my glow and hydration in the weeks leading up to my wedding. This also is my skins’ insurance policy for any pesky breakouts that inevitably will pop up due to stress.
Skin wedding prep can be as simple as reassessing your homecare plan, ensuring you are using the correct products to something more comprehensive utilising treatments to work on specific concerns. Ideally, you should start your skin journey 12 months or more prior to your wedding but really, it is never too soon as your skin will last you a lifetime. I have worked with various timeframes for clients, but the more time you have the more we can achieve. The wedding season is a stressful one, so I would want to know even if things start to unravel on my big day at least my skin will be glowing.
Also, who said you need to be the one getting married to have amazing skin? We can make up a bespoke treatment package just for you, no matter the occasion.
Thinking about trying injectables but feeling unsure because of something you heard or read? You’re not alone! Misinformation and myths often make their way into the world of aesthetic treatments, leaving many people hesitant or nervous to take the first step.At The Face Place, we believe in honest, expert guidance so you can make informed choices with confidence. Here are 10 of the most common myths about injectables—debunked!
Myth 1: “Injectables will make me look frozen.”
Truth: Anti-wrinkle injections relax specific muscles to soften lines, not eliminate movement. With an experienced injector, you’ll still look like you—just more refreshed.
Myth 2: “Fillers will make my face look fake or puffy.”
Truth: The days of overfilled cheeks and exaggerated features are long gone. Modern filler techniques are all about natural-looking results that restore balance and volume without drawing attention. Subtlety is key, and every face is treated individually.
Myth 3: “Once you start, you can’t stop.”
Truth: Injectables are not addictive, nor do they create a dependency. If you decide to stop, your face will simply return to its natural aging process. Many clients choose to continue because they love how they look, not because they have to.
Myth 4: “Injectables are only for people over 40.”
Truth: Preventative and subtle aesthetic enhancements are common among people in their 20s and 30s. Whether it’s softening early lines or enhancing lips, chin, or jawline, injectables can support beauty goals at many stages of life.
Myth 5: “All injectors are the same.”
Truth: The experience and training of your injector make a huge difference in both safety and outcome. Always choose a medically qualified, skilled professional.
Myth 6: “Botox and fillers are the same thing.”
Truth: They’re actually quite different! Anti-wrinkle injections like Botox relax muscle activity to reduce expression lines. Dermal fillers add volume and structure to areas such as cheeks, lips, and jawline. We often use them together for balanced, natural results.
Myth 7: “Injectables are unsafe or toxic.”
Truth: Both anti-wrinkle and dermal filler treatments have a strong safety profile when performed by qualified professionals. Botulinum toxin has been used in medicine for decades and is FDA-approved for aesthetic use in small, controlled doses.
Myth 8: “I’ll see results right away.”
Truth: While fillers offer near-instant volume, anti-wrinkle injections typically take 3 to 14 days to show full results. We always explain what to expect and offer follow-up appointments to ensure you’re happy with the outcome.
Myth 9: “I don’t need a consultation—I’ll just ask for what I want.”
Truth: A proper consultation is essential for safety, satisfaction, and natural results. Every face is unique, and what works for one person might not be right for another. We take the time to assess your features, listen to your goals, and create a custom plan that suits you.
Myth 10: “People will know I’ve had something done.”
Truth: The best aesthetic work goes unnoticed. Our goal is always to enhance your features—not change them. Friends may comment on how well-rested or radiant you look, but they likely won’t be able to pinpoint why—and that’s the beauty of subtle, skilled treatment.
Still have questions? We’re here to help.
Whether you’re considering injectables for the first time or just want to learn more, we’re happy to guide you through it. Consultations are friendly, pressure-free, and all about helping you make confident, informed decisions.
At TFP Academy, we’re passionate about raising the standard of cosmetic medicine through advanced education and hands-on experience. This August, we’re offering two exceptional workshops designed to elevate your skills, confidence, and clinical outcomes. Whether you’re an emerging injector or an experienced practitioner, these sessions will empower you with tools, protocols, and practical knowledge to take your practice to the next level.
💉 Hyalase and Complications Workshop
Monday 25 August 2025
Back by popular demand – our most sought-after course is here.
The Hyalase and Complications Workshop is essential for any cosmetic injector serious about safety and emergency preparedness. This in-depth, hands-on session is tailored to help you manage complications confidently, refine your clinical judgement, and master the use of hyaluronidase in practice.
In this workshop, you’ll learn how to:
Make up and administer Hyalase safely
Recognise and manage lumps, nodules, and vascular occlusions
Conduct proper consenting and patient communication
Apply cosmetic correction techniques
Respond to emergencies like filler blindness through practical role play
Review VO case studies with debriefs and performance feedback
If you’re committed to delivering safe, ethical, and high-quality aesthetic care, this is the workshop for you.
Ready to offer your clients the future of aesthetic medicine?
Our Regenerative Cell Therapy Workshop is designed for injectors looking to expand into evidence-based treatments for hair restoration, scar revision, and skin regeneration. This workshop blends scientific foundations with real-world techniques to help you confidently integrate regenerative procedures into your practice.
What you’ll cover:
The science and mechanism of regenerative cell therapy
Hair anatomy, treatment indications, and contraindications
Safety considerations and side effect management
Treatment prep, venepuncture, anaesthetic protocols, and aftercare
Equipment and product selection using Regen systems
This is your opportunity to learn how to harness the body’s natural healing power to deliver transformative results.
Toka Puia AT Carpark is the closest under-cover option at 15 Northcroft Street. Pay by Plate at the pay machine or via the AT Parking app ($2.50 per hour on weekdays / free weekend parking for a limited time only).
Other options…
Northcroft Street Parking (pay by meter) – One hour – $1.50 – Two hours – $3 – Hours thereafter – $3 per hour
Wilson Parking – 11 Northcorft Street (pay by plate machine or Parkmate app) – Casual – from $3 per hour – Earlybird (Mon-Fri) – from $14 valid for 12 hours – Night (Mon-Fri from 4 pm) – $4 flat rate valid until 8 am – Weekend (Sat-Sun) – $4 flat rate, valid for 12 hours from time of purchase
Anzac Street Carpark (pay by plate machine or via the AT app) – First 2 hours – $1.50 per hour – Hours thereafter – $3 per hour – Monday – Saturday (6 pm – 8 am) – No Charge – Sunday and Public Holidays – No Charge – Motorcycle and Mobility parking P180 – No Charge
Britomart Carparking
Currently, Britomart Carpark is offering 2 hours free parking* with a receipt of $50 or more from a Britomart store (such as The Face Place).
Britomart Carpark Valet Parking $20* for two hours (includes parking charges) $5 each additional half-hour to a daily maximum of $45 (to midnight). Available from 10am-8pm.
The Central Valet drop-off point is located on the corner of Gore and Tyler Streets, opposite Takutai Square. Drive in via the entrance on Gore Street, where you’ll be greeted by a friendly valet concierge. Leave your engine running, take your ticket and your car will be parked for you. Retrieve your car by taking your valet ticket to Britomart Car Park Reception on the corner of Britomart Place and Scene Lane.
Train An excellent alternative with Britomart Train Station being a short walk to us, plus, public transport is 50% off until 30th June 2023.
