Dr Julyan Lawry, medical director at Prescription Skin Care, tells Verve about her passion for cosmetic medicine.
When did you start in cosmetic medicine and why?
I started in cosmetic medicine over 20 years ago, when the field was quite new to New Zealand. It was around the time I was beginning to notice ageing changes in my own skin and that of my friends, and being able to improve their appearance – and my own – with cosmetic medicine treatments was an exciting new area at the time. Since then, the range of treatments available has expanded significantly, and the effectiveness has improved also.
What’s involved in your role as medical director of PSC?
I’m involved in all aspects of the clinic, including selecting which treatments we offer. We always take time to assess the safety and efficacy of the treatments, rather than just offering every new modality that comes along. Whether they be innovative skincare products and sunscreens, or injectables that enhance skin quality, we offer a carefully curated selection of the best treatments available. I’m fortunate to work alongside highly experienced and skilled nurses and a very knowledgeable dermal therapist.
You’re on the Education Committee of NZSCM. Can you describe what NZSCM sets out to do and why it’s important for NZ. Plus, your role there?
The New Zealand Society of Cosmetic Medicine (NZSCM) plays two major roles: firstly as a regulatory body for doctors in NZ who perform cosmetic procedures, including a three-yearly audit of every member’s practice to ensure standards are being maintained; and the secondly as the only internationally recognised training body for doctors in NZ who wish to learn how to carry out these procedures. As part of the Education Committee, I’m involved in teaching at workshops and examining the doctors who are doing the diploma examination. I also visit doctors’ cosmetic practices to ensure that standards are met and maintained.
Is it a juggle being an examiner and assessor for NZSCM as well as having your own busy GP practice?
I don’t find it much of a juggle as I manage my time pretty efficiently and find that the combination of roles helps me provide the best possible care and outcome for my cosmetic patients. Going to conferences both in NZ and overseas also allows me to assess the safety and efficacy of the latest procedures and decide which we should offer at Prescription Skin Care.
Are there significant challenges to being in cosmetic medicine you would advise other doctors about who are keen to get involved?
My advice would be that it requires time, dedication and focus to be able to produce excellent results. Keeping up with the latest changes in a rapidly growing field is important. It is easy to provide a mediocre service for patients. Providing an excellent service requires having an in-depth knowledge and understanding of the anatomical and physiological changes that happen as we age.
You’ve managed to pack in some other interesting accomplishments too, having been in the final of Mastermind, as well as president of your old college.
Yes, Mastermind was for fun! Giving back to my old school was an act of service I was happy to do, and I loved reconnecting with alumnae.
And let’s not forget having two teenage daughters – twins no less!
Yes! A delightful handful, both of them. They are almost through college and are looking forward to university.
