Welcome to our first issue of 2020, coming off the back of our third annual COSMEDICON Conference. Apart from the great networking and social fun, the scientific program was varied and encompassed all the touch points of technology and hot topics in our industry.

We are already planning for next year, 4–7 March, 2021, so put the dates in your diary now!

The coronavirus is everywhere – at least in the media – and is top of mind for everyone. Conferences and events are being cancelled weekly and we are all doing what we can to minimise risk in the community by containment and using common sense.

The medical community is all about patient safety and in this issue on page 60 we have an article Managing Acute Emergencies in the Cosmetic Clinic, based on Dr Sean Arendse’s presentation at COSMEDICON – it lists the most common emergencies and also the equipment and recommended drugs to have on hand in every clinic.

We also have an article on page 28 on the global statistics from the annual ISAPS (International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery) survey. Australia is surprisingly high in the cosmetic procedures stakes, with more than 4% of our population having undergone a procedure.

Setting up a ‘smart’ clinic is a smart move, not just for convenience, but also to minimise security risks. On page 34 we have an article that explains where to start and all your options for automated premises.

Turn to page 38 to read about the importance of patient reviews – for treatments, procedures and also for individual practitioners. I am often asked ‘how do I get online reviews?’, so we have six strategies to encourage your patients to leave a review.

As usual, we have all the latest Products and Procedures detailed (from page 64), plus interesting Best Practice articles that cover everything you need to handle difficult conversations at work by Roanne Innes (page 42) as well as effective digital marketing tips from Wendy Lewis (page 46).

In today’s climate of uncertainty and stress surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic, perhaps a good option to strengthen our immune systems is to adopt a fasting program. On page 126 we detail the health benefits and risks of popular fasting regimens.

Stay safe and let’s hope the coronavirus epidemic is short lived and a vaccination is soon developed.

Michelle Kearney
Editor in Chief