Part 2: Non Surgical Facial Aesthetics: Navigating the Next Steps After Training
Part 2: Setting Up Your Medical Aesthetics Practice: A Blueprint for Success
As we delve deeper into the specifics of setting up your aesthetic practice, developing efficient systems, seeking guidance, and why a consultation with us can be your pivotal step forward, let's begin mapping your path to success in the exciting realm of medical aesthetics.
Setting up a medical aesthetics practice is an exciting venture, but it requires careful planning and attention to detail. In this section, we'll explore the key steps involved in establishing your practice and discuss essential considerations such as location, equipment, licensing, and the critical role of a well-thought-out business plan.
1. Location Matters:
Selecting the right location is paramount. Consider areas with high demand for aesthetic services, a target demographic that matches your ideal clientele, and proximity to medical facilities or other healthcare providers.
Evaluate the competition in the chosen location. A healthy level of competition can indicate a thriving market. Don’t be put off by other practitioners, there’s room for everyone!
2. Licensing and Regulation:
Compliance with regulatory requirements is non-negotiable. Familiarise yourself with the specific licensing and certification needed for your area. This often includes medical licences, training certifications, and any additional permits for specific procedures. Remember if you’re offering prescription only medication, you may need to be practising in a CQC registered clinic.
Ensure your practice adheres to all safety and hygiene regulations to provide a safe, clean environment for your patients.
Medical Practitioners must be insured in order to practise. Ensure you update your current insurance, or seek separate aesthetics insurance from a reputable company such as Hamilton Fraser or Cosmetic Insure.
3. Facility and Equipment:
Starting out costs can soon mount up. It’s essential that you prioritise your ‘needs’ before your ‘wants’. Investing in the necessary equipment first such as a treatment bed, consumables & emergency kit before anything else. Larger purchases such as medical devices, and skincare machines can be added as you build your treatment portfolio and offerings.
Create a comfortable and aesthetically pleasing clinic space. The ambiance should align with the expectations of your ideal patient.
4. Staffing and Training:
Setting up on your own can often be a daunting process, and often leaves us feeling like a ‘one man band’. It’s difficult to juggle all the tasks that are involved in running a successful clinic; and you’ll find yourself handling enquiries, being bogged down with socials, all whilst working an 8-10 hour clinic day. Finding support with the management of this is key. But what does that involve? Hiring a Treatment Coordinator or a Virtual Assistant can help!
5. Inventory and Supplies:
Maintain an inventory of products and supplies required for treatments, such as dermal fillers, injectables, skincare products, and consumables.
Implement inventory management systems to track usage, expiry dates, and reordering. You don’t want to be caught short when it comes to product!
6. Marketing and Branding:
Develop a strong brand identity and marketing strategy. This includes creating a professional website, using the right social media platform for your target audience, and asking your patients for reviews & referrals.
Showcase before-and-after photos (with patient consent) to demonstrate your expertise and build trust.
7. Pricing and Services:
Know Your Costs: Calculate your operating costs, including rent, utilities, insurance, equipment maintenance, and product supplies. Be thorough in accounting for all expenses related to your practice.
Assess Your Training and Credentials: Your professional qualifications and training significantly impact your pricing. More advanced training or specialised certifications may justify higher rates.
Research the Market: Investigate your local market to understand what competitors charge for similar services. Consider the reputation and experience of your competitors when comparing prices.
Define Your Unique Selling Proposition (USP): Identify what sets you apart from others in the field. Highlight your expertise, specialised training, or unique services.
8. Business Plan:
Perhaps the most critical step is crafting a comprehensive business plan. Your plan should outline your mission, vision, and goals for the practice.
Include financial projections, budgeting, and a detailed marketing strategy in your plan.
A well-thought-out business plan serves as your roadmap, guiding your decisions and actions as your practice grows.
