Med spa vs dermatology vs plastic surgery

MED SPA

1. The med spa

• Cosmetic treatments onlyClients choose to come in
• Often retail-style hoursEvenings and weekends are common
• Sales may be part of the jobAsk how you're measured

DERMATOLOGY

2. The dermatology office

• Medical and cosmetic skin careNot just aesthetics
• You'll see a wide mix of patientsSkin checks to cosmetic visits
• Physicians on siteUsually a clinic schedule

PLASTIC SURGERY

3. The plastic surgery practice

• Surgery plus aesthetic servicesFrom consults to recovery
• Pre-op and post-op careYour surgical skills matter
• Often an office plus a surgery centerAsk where you'd work

QUESTIONS TO ASK

4. Before you take the job

• Who supervises me, and are they on site?
• What training do you provide?
• Is any of my pay tied to sales?
• What does a normal week look like?

CERTIFICATION

5. The CANS credential

• Certified Aesthetic Nurse SpecialistFrom PSNCB
• 2 years as an RN in core specialtiesPlus 1,000 hours in the last 2 years
• Work with a board-certified physicianLike a dermatologist or plastic surgeon

Source: Plastic Surgical Nursing Certification Board (PSNCB).

SCOPE

6. Rules vary by state

• What nurses can do in aestheticsDepends on your state
• Who can own a med spaVaries by state law
• Check your board of nursingBefore you start, not after

Varies by state; check your board of nursing.