In the world of medical aesthetics, innovation, talent, and dedication pave the way for excellence. At PLIM, we take pride in not only providing exceptional Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL) solutions but also in celebrating the remarkable achievements of women in the field. As we reflect on the recent Aesthetics Awards 2024, it's an honour to congratulate the inspiring women who continue to shape the industry with their expertise, creativity, and unwavering commitment.
The Aesthetics Awards serve as a platform to recognise outstanding individuals and businesses that have demonstrated excellence in medical aesthetics. From pioneering techniques to exceptional patient care, these awards celebrate the best of the best, setting the standard for excellence in the industry. Among the winners and nominees are countless women whose contributions have been nothing short of transformative.
From clinic owners and practitioners to researchers and educators, women play a pivotal role in every aspect of the aesthetics industry. Their passion for innovation and dedication to patient satisfaction drive progress and elevate standards. It's their vision and expertise that enable individuals to look and feel their best, empowering them to embrace their confidence and beauty.
Dr Yusra Al Mukhtar, Dr Yusra Clinic - Practitioner of the Year & Clinic Team of the Year
Dr. Yusra is a distinguished dental surgeon and medical aesthetic clinician, boasting extensive expertise in both fields. Her journey began with academic excellence, graduating with First Class Honours in Medical Science and Healthcare Management from Imperial College London. Subsequently, she earned accolades as a dental surgeon with Honours and Distinction from King’s College London, showcasing her commitment to clinical excellence.
With a multifaceted background, Dr. Yusra underwent comprehensive training in oral and maxillofacial surgery, dermatology, and skin cancer treatment. She holds prestigious qualifications including Diplomas and Memberships from The Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh and England, demonstrating her dedication to professional advancement.
Dr. Yusra's passion for facial reconstruction blossomed during her tenure at various London trauma hospitals, where she honed her skills in addressing diverse injuries while prioritising aesthetic outcomes. Her research contributions in maxillofacial surgery and joint clinics underscore her commitment to advancing patient care.
Renowned for her nuanced approach to facial aesthetics, Dr. Yusra employs evidence-based techniques to deliver natural-looking results. Her repertoire includes non-surgical face lifts, Botulinum Toxin injections, and energy based treatments, tailored to each patient's unique needs.
Beyond her clinical practice, Dr. Yusra actively promotes safety and education in aesthetic medicine, serving as a lead lecturer and trainer. Her advocacy extends to charitable endeavours, particularly those benefiting children in need.
In her leisure time, Dr. Yusra nurtures her artistic talents and advocates for mental wellness, reflecting her holistic approach to life and patient care. Committed to professional development and ethical practice, she remains a pillar of excellence in the medical community.
Dr Priya Verma, Phi Clinic - Rising Star
Dr. Verma commenced her medical journey at the University of Warwick in 2014, initiating a career in general practice. She achieved her GP qualification in 2021 after completing training in London. Dr. Verma's commitment to excellence earned her a prestigious NIHR Academic Clinical Fellowship at King’s College London, where she engaged in primary care research, aiming to integrate academic rigour into her approach to aesthetic medicine.
In pursuit of enhancing her proficiency in aesthetic medicine, Dr. Verma earned a postgraduate diploma in Skin Ageing and Aesthetics from the University of Manchester. Her dedication to women's health is underscored by her dual qualification as a women’s health specialist.
Dr. Verma's expertise lies in facial and body skin tightening, introducing laser skin tightening using Endolift in the UK. She acts as a Key Opinion Leader for the Endolift procedure and shares her knowledge globally as an international trainer, educating practitioners worldwide.
At PHI Clinic, under the mentorship of Dr. Tapan Patel, Dr. Priya Verma offers an array of non-surgical injectable treatments to restore facial harmony. Her services encompass soft tissue fillers for comprehensive facial transformations, skin tightening devices, ablative laser resurfacing, and personalised skincare guidance.
Michelle McLean, Aesthetically You - Clinic of the year North & Best Non Surgical result.
With over two decades of nursing experience and 15 of those years as an advanced nurse practitioner, Michelle McLean is a seasoned professional in her field. Remarkably, she became the youngest community matron in the UK at the age of 26, demonstrating her exceptional skills and dedication early in her career. Michelle holds a prominent role as the BACN (British Association of Cosmetic Nursing) North West Regional Leader.
Michelle's contributions to the field have been acknowledged with High Commendations at the Aesthetics Awards in 2023 and 2024, specifically for the ‘Nurse Practitioner of the Year’ category. Currently pursuing her second MSc in Cosmetic Medicine, Michelle remains committed to advancing her expertise.
In 2023, Michelle was honoured with a KOL role with GAIN by Galderma, further solidifying her position as a respected authority in her field. Additionally, she holds the distinction of being the UK’s first BTL Brand Ambassador and BTL Clinic of Excellence.
Beyond her professional achievements, Michelle is the founder of the Facial Palsy Association, demonstrating her dedication to both patient care and advocacy. A strong advocate for individualised skincare and aesthetic treatments, Michelle emphasises the importance of enhancing each patient's unique beauty and well-being.
Her philosophy revolves around the 'less is more' approach to aesthetic treatments, reflecting her commitment to natural-looking results and patient satisfaction. This guiding principle permeates all aspects of her clinic practice, reinforcing Michelle's reputation as a practitioner of integrity and excellence.
Sara Cheeney, Pure Perfection - Best Clinic Wales
Sara Cheeney is a highly accomplished medically trained nurse practitioner, ZO Skin Health Faculty Member & UK Trainer, and the proud owner of the esteemed Pure Perfection Clinic located in Chester, North Wales. With a stellar reputation in the industry, Sara was honoured with the title of Aesthetic Nurse of the Year at the prestigious Safety in Beauty Awards in London, 2019. Her clinic, established in 2003, has garnered numerous accolades over the past decade, marking a decade of unwavering success.
In addition to her thriving clinic, Sara is the founder of Clinic Success, a consulting business aimed at assisting other clinics in delivering exemplary services to their patients. Renowned for her expertise in transformative skin treatments, Sara is sought after internationally as a speaker and Key Opinion Leader for Hydrafacial, Inmode UK, and ZO Skin Health. Her holistic approach, grounded in clinical research, distinguishes her practice, focusing on instilling confidence in her patients.
Sara's journey towards skin perfection began with her personal battle with psoriasis, igniting her passion for skincare and aesthetic medicine. This journey led her to become dually trained as a nurse and a beauty therapist, synergising both professions to enhance patient satisfaction. Despite facing challenges such as breast cancer, Sara's resilience and determination propelled her clinic to greater heights, all while prioritising her family and business.
Her passion for her work is palpable, evident in her joy of being in the clinic and performing her role as an Aesthetic Nurse Practitioner. Sara utilises ZO Skin Health products alongside a comprehensive range of treatments including Botox, Fillers, Skin Tightening, Thread Lifts, and Fat Reducing Treatment plans to achieve optimal results for her patients. As both an Aesthetic Nurse and Consultant & Trainer, Sara finds inspiration in providing confidence boosts to her patients, empowering them to live their best lives.
As we celebrate the achievements of these remarkable women, it's important to recognise the challenges they've overcome and the barriers they continue to break. In a traditionally male-dominated field, women in aesthetics have faced obstacles ranging from gender bias to unequal opportunities. Yet, despite these challenges, they've persevered, defying stereotypes and redefining success on their own terms.
At PLIM, we understand the importance of supporting women in aesthetics and championing their success. Through our BNPL solutions tailored for medical aesthetics, we strive to empower clinic owners and practitioners with the financial flexibility they need to thrive in their businesses. By offering accessible financing options and empowering their patients to take control of their finances, we're enabling clinic owners to focus on what they do best – delivering exceptional care and results to their patients.
Beyond financial empowerment, we also recognise the importance of fostering a community that celebrates diversity, inclusivity, and collaboration. By coming together to support and uplift one another, we can create a more equitable and vibrant industry where everyone has the opportunity to succeed.
We extend our heartfelt congratulations to all the women in aesthetics who continue to push boundaries, defy expectations, and shape the future of the industry. Your achievements are not only a testament to your talent and determination but also an inspiration to us all. As we look ahead, let us continue to support and celebrate women in aesthetics, ensuring that their voices are heard and their contributions are valued.
Together, we can create a more inclusive and empowering future for all.
