Can you believe that in 2007 the first iPhone was released? At the same time, in the world of beauty, there was still a lot of stigma surrounding people undergoing cosmetic surgery. However, aesthetic procedures, once thought to be reserved for celebrities or the very wealthy were becoming more affordable and available in your hometown. The interest in non-surgical cosmetic treatments like Botox, fillers and lasers was just starting to grow amongst middle-aged women looking to recapture their youthful appearance. Those seeking such treatments were very discrete and often did not disclose to anyone the “work” they had done, choosing instead to let mother nature get the credit for their refreshed look. It’s been a long time since we opened our doors at Dr. Andrea Hickey Medical Aesthetics, continue reading to learn more about how it all started and how the industry and our practice have evolved.
How it All Started: Determined to Eliminate All of the Frowns in Fredericton
In my chosen profession as a family physician, I was always intrigued by how one’s physical appearance impacted how they felt about themselves and how they are perceived by others. Wanting to expand on my experience from the ER and minor surgical procedures, I decided to delve a bit more into these new non-surgical treatments that were making the headlines. After intensive research on the safety of these products, I enrolled in one of the first injector training courses offered in Canada. Off I flew to Toronto to begin my journey as a physician injector. I learned the basics, underwent treatment with Botox and filler, and returned to wait for the magic of Botox to take effect over the next two weeks. Each day, I watched as the angry looking “11’s” on my forehead softened and relaxed. Relieved to see the worry lines disappear, I was eager to share, and so I set off to eliminate all the frowns in Fredericton!
The Early Years of Aesthetic Medicine in Fredericton
In those early years, medical aesthetic treatments were not well done. Even those who could afford the best cosmetic surgeons were still looking unnatural and even a bit scary. With advancements in techniques over time, more natural looking results became achievable. Patient safety and comfort were always a priority for me, so I attended more educational conferences and skills training from global leaders in this rapidly advancing field of medical aesthetics. Building on my knowledge, I gained the deeper understanding of anatomy and human expression required to become a better injector and steadily built a clientele who entrusted me with their confidence.
Interest in aesthetics grew as the specialty evolved and people became more assured of safety and results. When the “selfie” became a global phenomenon in 2012, the industry skyrocketed. You could now carry a camera in your pocket, and instantly share your image with friends on Facebook. At the same time, millennials were coming of age and with them came a welcomed change in cultural thinking. More diversity, acceptance of personal choice, and a willingness to share their experiences broke down the barrier of social judgement. Aesthetic treatments were finally becoming mainstream.
How’s it Going Now?
The advancements in technology and science have driven the field of aesthetic medicine at an outstanding pace. In addition to smoothing wrinkles, it is now possible to contour faces, reshape chins, and sculpt jawlines. With more information available, clients are better informed about available options and younger clients are requesting aesthetic treatments for beautification and prevention of ageing. We have a wide variety of treatment options to address the concerns of all ages and genders. Self-care is now recognized for its importance in maintaining life balance and nurturing our mental and physical well-being.
Through the years, I have taken the education I received together with my professional experience and honed my aesthetic skills to provide my clients with the most current and safest treatments. By design, I have focused on growing a portfolio of treatments that require a higher level of medical knowledge, procedural techniques, and regulation. In doing so, we have become Fredericton’s Boutique Centre for cosmetic injections.
Happily, our team has grown to two physicians and one nurse injection specialist who share the same philosophy- to provide an exceptional experience with the highest standards for patient safety. It is such a pleasure to work collaboratively with these professionals to provide premium service to new and existing clients.
Dr. Andrea Hickey & The Future of Aesthetic Medicine
One thing is for certain, as humans we will never stop searching for ways to achieve a younger, healthier, or more attractive look. That desire is biologically engrained in us for the survival of our species. No doubt, technology will provide even more options in the future. My team is dedicated to continued education and is excited to learn new skills to provide optimum results. We are inspired to use our expertise to achieve attractive and natural-looking results. Seeing how those changes positively impact each client’s self-confidence and sense of well-being is the ultimate reward. We look forward to inspiring you and delivering results you will be thrilled with for years to come.