I’m currently in Mexico having made the 2 day travel extravaganza to get here… I had one night on the plane and another in Mexico City before I then made my way to Huatulco and then Zipolite where my mum lives. I have been so excited to see my mama, and then to mentally, physically and emotionally conclude this cancer journey with 3 weeks of treatment at Sanoviv, the medical health retreat I’m booked into. I’ve still got twinges of sciatica bugging me as I write, but at least it’s not in full spasm like it was. Hopefully it survives this long trip OK (sitting for long periods aggravates it).
Last week before leaving I saw each of my medical specialists – oncologist, breast surgeon and plastic surgeon, as well as all my supportive therapies (see below). I was saying to Janek (my plastic surgeon) that I’d like to go smaller with my implant to replace the expander implant when I have further surgery at the end of this year, as my breasts were very different in size – the expander which was placed after my mastectomy in October was a lot bigger and felt quite tight. I asked if we could take some fluid out of the expander in the meantime and he agreed it would be a good idea. He located the injection port with a magnet, and stuck the needle in… and we got yellow, plasma coloured fluid out. It wasn’t the saline from the expander – I’d had a sneaky seroma build up of fluid around the implant! Janek took 25ml off then sent me to my breast team to drain the rest off under ultrasound guidance so we didn’t pierce the implant – we removed another 140+ ml (plus quite a bit that leaked out). In total I probably had 180-200ml drained from around my breast. It wasn’t infected and doesn’t affect my travel, but on top of the 350ml of saline already inside the implant, I’d had the equivalent of 500-550cc implants! No wonder it was so big and tight 😳 It feels so much better now, thankfully.
I’ve managed to get through chemo surprisingly well, and have had a lot of people – including my oncologist – commenting that I don’t look like I’ve just come through a chemo journey 😹 I truly believe it’s because I’ve had the opportunity to focus fully on my health since we first found out that we were dealing with invasive cancers rather than precancer. I’m super grateful to all the incredible providers who have supported me through 2 surgeries and 4 cycles of chemo over the last 6 months.
The team at Auckland Hyperbarics became like another TFP family, as I was seeing them 5 days a week throughout my chemo, and completed the recommended 60 sessions. I felt totally at home and fully embraced by them – like our team, they are friendly, caring and go over and above in welcoming and helping their patients.
Cristina at Lagom Clinic was my lymphatic angel 👼. She took me from having a high risk of lymphoedema and very limited range of movement in my shoulder due to cording/axillary web syndrome, to full range of shoulder movement, and now only needing my compression sleeve for travel and exercise to prevent lymphoedema. I still need to be careful of my arm with lymphoedema risks such as mosquito bites, cuts or grazes for the next 5 years, but I have so much more freedom of movement and life!
My acupuncturist Mei was a little ray of sunshine. She has Mei’s Natural Health Clinic and works out of Alpers Dental, where Auckland Hyperbaric is based. While I mainly saw her for acupuncture, she also does lymphatic drainage and traditional Chinese medicine, so was a wealth of knowledge.
Our wonderful Erin O’Hara, the evidence-based naturopath who works out of our Takapuna clinic, had me well supported with supplements and potions, to rebuild my resilience after 2 surgeries in quick succession, reduce the side effects from chemo (and the subsequent menopausal symptoms as the chemo destroyed my ovaries) and also to prevent the cancer from returning. I’m eternally grateful for your incredible suggestions and support Erin. Thank you 🙏
Our team at TFP have been absolutely outstanding. Not only have they been running the business without needing me other than for the occasional clinical support, they provided regular IV Vitamin C and Healite LED treatments for me, which have been a big part of my recovery plan. We had been planning to launch IV Vitamin C infusions for a while, so I got to do a lot of training and provide feedback, and we have now launched our unique IV Vitamin C offering where it is paired with a Healite (I alternated having this healing light on my breast and my face, helping my breast heal, and my face glow) and a deliciously relaxing neck and shoulder massage. Pro Collective interviewed our medical team leader Queza to write an excellent article about the new treatment combo, which you can read here.
It was wonderful to capture this ‘post treatment glow’ with a photoshoot with the extremely talented Kennedy, and Ali Brewer doing my makeup. We needed a photo for an upcoming magazine cover, but it’s also been a great opportunity to capture this stage of my journey. I was even brave and had photos without a wig! My hair is finally starting to grow in the bald patches, although it’s bright white and fluffy, not the dark, curly hair I’d been expecting 😹
I had a small ‘wigs and boobs’ party at home as a fun way to celebrate the end of my chemo journey. It was such a delight seeing everyone else turn up in wigs – I also had some of my least favourite wigs available for those who turned up without one. There’s a few people missing from the photo, but it was a great night seeing everyone who popped in!
Another breast cancer survivor, Ali, invited me to speak on her podcast, The Ali Bond Show. We had a wonderful chat about my history with starting TFP, some of the treatments we offer, being diagnosed with breast cancer, and how cancer changes our life and perspective. The podcast should be available soon, so keep an eye out for it!
Most of all I’m grateful to you for your ongoing support over what’s been a challenging time. Having your continued patronage while things have been a little unsettled for me has kept the business running, our team gainfully employed and me able to focus fully on returning to wellness. Thank you for loving and supporting our team and business,
What inspired you to pursue a career in medicine … Medicine was actually my first childhood dream, and despite changing my mind countless times over the years about my dream job, I always came back to it. I love how my career is a blend of science and art, where I can help people in vulnerable moments, offering them comfort. I also get to bring positive news when things go well, and, above all, I find the work incredibly fun.
What led you to The Face Place? The Face Place appealed to me as it was founded by a medical doctor whose core values align with my own. This is important as I am both a provider and a consumer within cosmetic medicine. It is a privilege to being trained in-house by The Face Place Academy and its founder, Dr. Catherine Stone.
What are you looking forward to about working at TFP? The team dynamic at The Face Place is fantastic. I’m also excited about the ongoing regular training that ensures we stay up-to-date with the latest guidelines and evidence-based products. This helps me share knowledge with my clients, and see the results on a variety of individuals who come to us.
What can clients expect when they come to see you? A collaborative approach – we’ll work together as a team to identify their concerns and explore options to address them. If necessary, I can refer them to other team members with the most suitable skill set. And importantly, there’s absolutely no obligation to proceed with any treatment if they feel it’s not the right fit for them.
What do you think are some of the biggest misconceptions in cosmetic injectables today? People forget cosmetic injectables are a medical treatment. Many would do thorough research before seeing a GP or surgeon, or Google a new medication they’re being prescribed. I encourage my clients to treat their cosmetic experience with the same level of importance as a regular medical appointment. Ask questions, address any knowledge gaps, and ensure you fully understand what you’re receiving and how it works.
What advice would you give to someone considering their first cosmetic treatment?
Beauty is very subjective, and what works for one person might not be the best choice for you. It’s really important to have a formal consultation to discuss your expectations, the benefits, and any risks associated with the treatment. And most importantly, have fun with the process! This is about enhancing how you feel and look, so enjoy the journey.
What is one thing clients might be surprised to learn about you?
Before entering healthcare, I was a party planner in Hong Kong! I’ve planned everything from bar openings and conferences to weddings and birthday parties. It taught me a lot about organisation and creativity, which I think translates well into the work I do now.
Three words to describe yourself?
I’d like to think advocate, personable, level-headed.
How do you spend your spare time? Outside of cosmetic medicine, I’m a doctor working in anaesthesiology, and I spend most of my time in operating theatres. I also enjoy spending time with my family and friends. A nice weekend brunch to a dog friendly café is an ideal type of day.
Rosacea is a long term skin condition that mainly affects the face, causing diffused redness, enlarged blood vessels, and is sometimes accompanied by pimples or bumps. It usually starts with frequent flushing of the skin, which progresses to more frequent and noticeable symptoms. This is a condition that can be treated and significantly reduced, however there is no known cure and symptoms will need to be managed with topical products and avoiding specific triggers.
Symptoms:
-Redness or “flushing” in cheeks, nose or forehead.
-Visible blood vessels
-Bumps or pimples similar to acne
-Burning, stinging or heated sensations in the skin
-Thickened skin (in more advanced cases, can thicken around the nose causing a condition called rhinophyma)
-Ocular irritation or redness associated with some or all of the other symptoms mentioned.
Causes:
-There is no known cause for rosacea. Except there have been links between people with a Celtic heritage (Scottish/Irish) and being more likely to develop conditions like rosacea in their 30s-60s.
-Research shows that people with rosacea have an overpopulation of demodex mites. Demodex mites are part of our skin’s natural microbiome, however people with rosacea have an 3x more per square centimetre of skin. These mites eat our skin’s sebum and burrow into the hair follicle, which causes the symptoms mentioned above.
Triggers:
It’s important to note that avoiding or limiting triggers if possible can help to manage the symptoms of rosacea and make it less noticeable.
-UV exposure
-Exercise
-Alcohol
-Spicy foods
-Caffeine
-Stress
-Medications (Beta blockers, photosensitising drugs, vitamin b3 and some blood pressure medications can exacerbate symptoms)
-Certain ingredients in skin and hair products, e.g shea butter, highly fragranced products or heavy/occlusive creams.
-Extreme changes in temperature
-Air pollution
Skincare:
Biojuve
Introducing “Xycrobe” technology, this skincare system can help support and balance the skin’s natural microbiome by releasing good bacteria onto the skin’s surface. These good bacteria release propionic acid, which has a highly anti-inflammatory effect on the skin. Important to note the products within Biojuve are also shea-butter free and non occlusive, further aiding in symptom reduction.
Vitamin A
Otherwise commonly known as “retinol” but comes in many other forms. Vitamin A helps with DNA repair which can help reverse some symptoms of rosacea. It’s also very strengthening for the skin, which helps with the skin’s resilience against environmental factors.
SPF
UV protection is very important for preventing “flare ups” or exacerbating the symptoms of rosacea. UV exposure triggers inflammation and disrupts the skin’s lipid barrier, which further “feeds” rosacea. Using a good quality broad spectrum SPF and re-applying every two hours in direct sunlight is a non negotiable, not just for rosacea but for general skin health and age prevention.
Antioxidants
Topical antioxidants like Vitamin C and/or vitamin B can help neutralize environmental factors that trigger rosacea, such as air pollution and radiation. Vitamin C in particular acts as a photo protectant and can aid more with protecting the skin against UV, and can also help strengthen visible blood vessels making them less noticeable. It’s important to note not all forms of rosacea can tolerate vitamin C, and inflammation may need to be reduced significantly first before introducing one.
Treatments:
LED light therapy: Using different wavelengths of light to penetrate the skin, greatly reducing inflammation as well as promoting healing. Sessions are typically short and non invasive. Better results are achieved through LED light therapy courses and may be recommended before advancing to other treatments.
Peels: Depending on which type used, can help sterilize the skin as well as reducing the population of demodex mites present- typically through lactic or glycolic acid. They can also strengthen and promote DNA repair through vitamin A peels specifically.
IPL: Using intense pulsed light, the IPL is attracted to the chromophore in the skin (a.k.a redness) and helps to shrink and break down blood vessels giving a noticeably more even skin tone. IPL works best on prepped skin using appropriate medical grade skincare, and potentially some other treatments like LED light therapy or peels beforehand for best results.
Conclusion
If you’re unsure what treatments and products are best for you, book in for a Medical Skin Consultation with one of our skin team!
It’s been just over a month since my last chemo and I continue to lose hair in handfuls – I honestly thought it would be done shedding by now! Researching it more, I probably have another month of hair loss ahead of me. 🤷♀️
So it was great to be used as a training model for our wonderful new Dr Jess, injecting my scalp, scars and under eyes with a regenerative treatment we have used for years (and are no longer allowed to name due to therapeutic advertising guidelines 🤷♀️😹). Marj did a wonderful job of training, and Marilou also popped in to say hi 👋😻
Dr Jess is on the anaesthetic training program and so is well versed in the use of needles, using them for much more complicated procedures than what we do with cosmetic injecting. She has almost finished her comprehensive training and onboarding and should be available to book soon! Not only is she highly accomplished as an injector, she is also a delightful human and a fabulous addition to our team 🥰
Our team had a wonderful time exploring some new treatments at our recent team training day. At a recent Allergan workshop in Brisbane, attended by Marjorie, Marilou, Eve and myself, we explored using more concentrated Botox in higher doses to increase the longevity of the result. In the past we have avoided higher doses due to the risk of the spread of Botox into adjacent muscles, which could then cause a higher risk of side effects, but by using a more concentrated version, we can avoid this and still have higher dosing. This obviously comes at a higher price point as we charge per unit, but could be helpful in situations where we want the Botox treatment to last a little longer eg if you are going overseas for an extended period of time. It is just another tool in the toolbox which allows us to personalise and tailor treatments to you as a unique individual. We trialled the concentrated Botox on multiple team members during team training day, as well as exploring some new filler techniques for chins, temples, jawlines and lips. There may be a few of our team sporting small bruises this week, but feel free to ask the team what they have received in terms of treatments and how they have found them!
If only we had a treatment that helps with bulging discs and sciatica! I’ve had about a month of back pain and almost 3 weeks of spasm of the muscles around the glutes, with pain radiating down into the leg. I tried for an MRI but they wouldn’t scan me because I have a magnet in my expander boob reconstruction, so had a CT SPECT scan 10 days ago which has revealed a couple of bulgy discs. I was thrilled to find out that I had no metastases (always a consideration with a cancer history) and no osteoporosis! The pain is slowly improving with anti-inflammatories, fish oils, heat, osteopath care and some magic supplements from our wonderful naturopath Erin! Check out our info on the incredible benefits of fish oils in this newsletter.
A pain syndrome that can be treated with Botox is trigeminal neuralgia (TGN), and I’ve done training with our senior medical team today on this topic. TGN is a devastating chronic facial pain condition with sufferers experiencing intense facial pain either constantly or in bouts, often associated with electric shock sensations, numbness and muscle spasms. I’ve been treating this condition since around 2007 and it still sometimes moves me to tears hearing what people have gone through, and I truly is an honour that we can often help!
Despite recovering from chemo, and suffering with sciatica, I’ve been receiving lots of compliments about my ‘glow’ and how good I’m looking 😹,I credit this to continued trialing of our combo treatment of IV Vitamin C infusions which are paired with Healite LED and a lovely neck and shoulder massage. You can read more about the benefits of IV Vitamin C here
My wonderful friend Alison Brewer took some photos of me for her 100 day photo challenge, and I’m thrilled with what she captured! You can check out her photo challenge on IG @alisonbrewer_snaps (and have a peek at more of my photos 😹). Alison is also an incredible makeup artist, which is her main career – she did a quick ‘glow up’ of my makeup before the shoot, so you can check out her work in my photos or on IG @alisonbrewer_makeup 🥰 Alison may be a great option for your next headshots or big event!
I have booked and paid for my medical health retreat, Sanoviv, and will be there from 27 April to 18 May, to ensure I am permanently cancer free! It sounds like I’ll have days jammed full with treatments, but I’m really looking forward to it, and to flying to Mexico on 31 March to go see my mama before going into the retreat.
The team are continuing to do an incredible job of ensuring the business runs smoothly. Thank you so much, as always, for your support in being one of our valued patients.
Love and hugs,
Dr Cat 😻
All medical devices and treatments carry risks and benefits. Individual results will vary. Speak to one of our qualified Cosmedicine Doctor’s or Nurse’s to see what might be right for you and to explain the possible side effects. The Face Place.
At TFP Academy, we are committed to providing high-quality education in aesthetic medicine for healthcare professionals. If you’re considering entering this field, you may have questions about the training process, qualifications, and course structure. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you understand what’s required and what to expect when training in aesthetic medicine in New Zealand.
Why Do I Have to Be a Nurse, Doctor, or Dentist? Can I Do This If I Am Not a Nurse Already?
In New Zealand, administering botulinum toxin and dermal fillers is classified as a medical procedure. This means that only registered healthcare professionals such as nurses, doctors, and dentists are legally permitted to train and perform these treatments.
The reason for this restriction is that aesthetic treatments require advanced knowledge of anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, and patient safety. Medical professionals have the necessary training to assess facial structure, vascular anatomy, potential risks, and complications, ensuring safe and ethical practice.
What If I Am Not a Nurse, Doctor, or Dentist?
If you do not hold a New Zealand medical qualification as a nurse, doctor or dentist, then you are not able to inject with Botox or other aesthetic registered medicines, therefore your first step would be to complete the necessary education to register as a nurse, doctor, or dentist. Once you have a professional medical qualification, you can then pursue specialised aesthetic training.
The aesthetics industry is an exciting and rapidly growing field, offering innovative treatments that enhance confidence and well-being. However, patient safety must always remain the top priority. Aesthetic procedures, while often minimally invasive, involve medical interventions that carry potential risks, including infections, vascular occlusions, allergic reactions, and complications such as necrosis or blindness in rare cases.
This is why aesthetic procedures should only be performed by qualified medical professionals who have the necessary education, training, and clinical experience to assess risks, manage complications, and ensure optimal patient outcomes. Doctors, nurses, and other regulated healthcare providers possess a deep understanding of anatomy, physiology, and pharmacology, allowing them to safely perform treatments while minimising risks.
Moreover, proper patient assessment is crucial in aesthetics. Medical professionals can identify contraindications, assess suitability for treatments, and provide evidence-based recommendations tailored to the individual. They are also trained in managing medical emergencies and have access to appropriate protocols and interventions should complications arise.
Ethical practice is another key component of medical aesthetics. Professionals must adhere to industry standards, informed consent processes, and patient-centered care principles, ensuring transparency regarding risks, realistic expectations, and long-term treatment plans.
As the demand for aesthetic treatments continues to rise, so does the need for regulation and ongoing education. Medical professionals are required to stay updated with the latest research, techniques, and safety protocols through continuous professional development. This commitment to learning ensures that patients receive the highest standard of care in a field that is constantly evolving.
Ultimately, while aesthetics can provide transformative results, safety, ethics, and professionalism must always come first to protect patient well-being and maintain the integrity of the industry.
Is This a Fully Qualified Course? Will I Be Fully Qualified in the End?
Our courses at TFP Academy are comprehensive and designed to provide you with the essential knowledge and practical skills required to begin practicing aesthetic treatments confidently.
However, it’s important to understand that aesthetic medicine is a constantly evolving field, and true mastery comes with:
Ongoing Learning – New techniques, products, and safety protocols are constantly emerging. Continuing education is key to staying at the forefront of industry.
Advanced Training – After completing a foundational course, many practitioners choose to specialise further in areas like advanced injectables, combination therapies such as regenerative treatment, and skin health rejuvenation.
Hands-On Experience – Like any medical procedure, real-world experience plays a vital role in developing precision, confidence, and patient management skills.
By completing our course, you will be well-prepared to start offering treatments, but ongoing education and mentorship are essential for becoming a highly skilled practitioner in aesthetic medicine.
Is the Training Online or In-Person?
Our courses are designed to provide a flexible learning experience that combines both online and in-person training for maximum effectiveness.
Online Learning Modules – The theoretical portion of the course is delivered online, allowing you to study at your own pace. These modules cover essential topics such as:
Facial anatomy and physiology
Pharmacology and molecular structure of botulinum toxin and dermal fillers
Patient assessment and consultation techniques
Managing risks, complications, and safety protocols
In-Person Practical Training – The hands-on component of the course is essential. You will:
Practice on live models under expert supervision
Develop injection techniques for botulinum toxin, dermal fillers, and other treatments
Gain real-world experience in patient consultation and treatment planning
This blended learning approach ensures that you build strong foundational knowledge online while also gaining the practical experience needed to perform safe and effective treatments.
Is It Just Theory Work?
No, our courses are not just about theory. While the online modules provide essential theoretical knowledge, the in-person training sessions focus on hands-on experience.
During practical training, you will:
Work on live models to practice real treatments
Learn proper injection techniques under expert guidance
Gain confidence in handling different patient scenarios
Receive immediate feedback from experienced trainers to refine knowledge and skills
This practical experience ensures that you don’t just learn the theory but also develop the confidence and skill to perform procedures safely and effectively.
Why Choose TFP Academy?
At TFP Academy, we are dedicated to excellence in aesthetic training. When you choose to train with us, you’re not just taking a course, you’re investing in your future career as a skilled aesthetic practitioner. We will also provide you with mentorship and support as you continue to grow in your career.
If you’re looking to build a successful career in aesthetic medicine, now is the time to take the next step. TFP Academy provides the education, hands-on training, and ongoing support you need to thrive in this exciting field.
Contact us today to learn more about our courses and start your journey in aesthetics!
Marjorie Dee, Senior Advanced Cosmedicine Nurse | TFP Academy Trainer
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.
