So...What is MedModeling?
A Conversation with Heidi Keesis MPA, PA-C
Why do aesthetic injectors need training? Are they bad at what they do? Absolutely not. Injectors train to educate themselves on the latest products, beauty trends, techniques. Training ensures injectors safely deliver beautiful results every time they pick up a needle.
Aesthetics trainings work like this:
An injector decides to learn a new technique or product.
They book a training session with an expert injection educator.
The injector needs a model to inject during the training session.
Models receive highly discounted or (sometimes) complimentary treatments at training sessions led by educators who are leaders in the aesthetic field.
MedModel was founded because its founder (me) hosted hundreds of trainings during my years in medical aesthetics, and saw first hand how difficult it is to find qualified models. Introducing qualified, informed models to injectors who are learning is MedModel's primary mission. We want to help injectors get the most out of their education, and introduce models to the amazing field of medical aesthetics.
Today I'm sharing a conversation I had with Heidi Keesis, MPA, PA-C. She has been an aesthetic injector for 18 years, and is an expert educator f or Allergan Aesthetics. Heidi currently injects at L&P Aesthetics, a renowned medical aesthetics practice with locations in Palo Alto, CA and Los Gatos, CA. Heidi started in medical aesthetics because she wanted to be involved in 'happy medicine'. She trains injectors because she's amazed at how far safety has come in two decades. She wants to share her knowledge with others in the field. She loves "giving back to people" and says "that one of her favorite parts of training is what she learns from her injector trainees." Many of you submitted questions a few weeks ago, and Heidi is here to provide some insights into what actually goes on in an aesthetics training. Here's what she has to say:
MedModel: How do you help models feel at ease during the training?
Heidi Keesis: The injector trainee who books the model is responsible for preparing them beforehand. Injector trainees need to prepare models for what they may experience during the training. Models will likely be examined by multiple injectors, have their faces drawn on (it comes off, don't worry!), hear medical terminology, and differing opinions on treatment plans. We also talk about what can go wrong during an injection. Its rare for things to go wrong, but treating complications is a very important part of training for injectors. They have to be able to handle the unexpected. It can be hard for models to hear.
MM: Can models choose what they have injected?
HK: Models can have their wishes expressed, but they need to be prepared to have the treatments that the group decides on for the best aesthetic outcome.
MM: How do models know they will have good results?
HK: The educator's job is to guide the students to ensure beautiful results. If the educator sees a needle going into a place that it shouldn't be, we'll stop the student and guide them immediately. The educators will also get their hands in there and hold the syringe if needed. No injector trainee just pops a needle in someone's face and injectors. Educators are checking all kinds things of before any product is injected. Side note…I've never had a model who is displeased with her results.
MM: How long is a typical training?
HK: On average, a training is 4 hours. The model isn't injected for 4 hours though. The group will draw on the model's face to mark facial anatomy, practice consultations, and discuss specifics on the products being used. Generally, models aren't being physically injected for more than 2 hours.
MM: What are good questions for models to ask before agreeing to participate in a training?
HK: Definitely ask what you can do to prepare for the appointment. Appointment prep can help limit bruising and down time post treatment. Ask about post care and how long the downtime will be. You should also ask how you should show up to the appointment. Make-up? No make-up? Hair pulled back? Often injectors will ask that you are plainly dressed, with your hair pulled back and fresh faced for before and after photos.
MM: What do you think are 'must dos' for models to prepare for their appointment?
HK: Providers often forget to tell models to come well hydrated and to eat before the appointment. If you're a person that gets queasy, bring a little juice and cracker pack in your bag. Avoid alcohol and aspirin, anything that thins the blood, for 48 hours before. A week is best…but sometimes that's tough. It really helps limit bruising.
MM: What are qualities you look for in a model?
HK: We want someone who is somewhat interactive, calm, confident, and open to suggestions. Anatomically, we're looking for a person with limited skin laxity and sun damage. When the skin quality is poor it is difficult to deliver a good result with Botox and fillers. Models can be all ages, but we typically find people between 30 to 50 to achieve the best results in a training appointment.
MM: Are there red flags for models to look out for?
HK: Research your provider before agreeing to model for them. Where are they training? Is it a real medical office or training facility? Head to the office's website to make sure it's the type of office you'd go to for a paid appointment.
MM: What is the biggest challenge regarding models?
HK: (laughs) Freaking out during facial mapping and conversations before the injection takes place. This is why the prep is key. If they know what they're going to be experiencing…they are wonderful.
Still have questions? Head to our YouTube channel to see videos of real training sessions to hear what they really sound like and see some beautiful before and after's. Ready to take the plunge? Sign up here!
Until next time,
Jen