Dr Yap Hae Mun of MAC Clinic Bangsar chats with The Yum List about aesthetic medicine and shares some stories from behind the scenes.
What do you do and how did you get into the industry?
I am an aesthetic practitioner (Qualification: M.D. (RUS), Dip. of Aesthetic Medicine (USA), Dip. of Dermatology (Australia). Basically, I am a general practitioner medical doctor who has a special interest in aesthetic medicine and dermatology. I perform mainly non-invasive and minimally-invasive procedures such as Botulinum Toxin injection, dermal fillers, chemical peels, various aesthetic medical devices and weight-loss treatments.
My immerse interest in aesthetic medicine and dermatology led me to complete my studies with a postgraduate Diploma both in Aesthetic Medicine from the American Academy of Aesthetic Medicine (AAAM) as well as in Dermatology with the Australian Institute of Dermatology.
Why aesthetic medicine?
I used to suffer from childhood eczema and later adult acne issues. It was my recovery journey that led me to the field of Aesthetic Medicine. Having had the journey as a patient myself, I feel that I can relate to my patients more. This experience also motivates me to seek the best solution to treat such ailments.
Share with us an interesting story from behind the scenes.
I remember when I first started doing aesthetic medicine a couple of years ago; I would always request my parents, aunties, and my therapists to be my practice subjects! Obviously, the first few volunteers were occasionally not too pleased with the results, but luckily, they understood that “practice makes perfect” and there is always a learning curve for new doctors to improve over time. I could not thank them enough for allowing me to be a well-trained and skilful doctor as I am today!
What’s the best part of your job?
Being able to see the joy on my patient’s face after treatment. Their satisfaction and increased confidence after each treatment keep me going.
What’s one of the most outrageous things you’ve seen behind the scenes?
Occasionally I get outrageous requests from customers. For example, a lady who had witch-like chin from an earlier botched job kept insisting she wanted even more dermal fillers for her chin; another very perfectly good looking gentleman wanted to undergo procedures to have a nose look more like a lion, which I had to counsel and advised him against it.
What’s the most popular treatment in your clinic?
Botox injections and pigmentation removal lasers.
What treatment do you think gets the best results for money?
Botox; with just the right amount, this powerful product used on areas with dynamic lines can do wonders!
A day in the life of a doctor at MAC Clinic is…
Meaningful and hectic but gratifying!
The perfect day off would be…
Enjoying the perfect cup of coffee with a book on my favourite couch.
What do you do for fun?
Play badminton with a bunch of close friends and catch up with them with a delicious meal!
What’s something you’d like people to know about aesthetic treatments?
There is often a misconception that aesthetic treatments are very painful or invasive but nowadays, they usually come with minimal downtime, are generally safe and produce very natural enhancements.
What are your top three skincare tips?
Cleanse daily, exfoliate weekly and use SPF50+ daily, regardless of the weather. As well as maintain a sound diet, a healthy lifestyle, and a balanced mind.
Do you do treatments on each other?
Yes, in fact, I have had a few aesthetic procedures done upon myself. As you can imagine, aesthetic practitioners are expected to look flawless all the time! It also allows me to understand my patients’ experience while they are getting treatments done by me!
What’s your view on the aesthetic medical industry in Kuala Lumpur?
Treatments are getting well accepted by the public. People are more aware of its existence and begin to realize the benefits outweigh the cons.
Where do you see the industry headed?
The industry is booming and expanding in a fast but yet steady pace. The Health Ministry has since come up with a regulatory body for aesthetic doctors, dermatologists and plastic surgeons. This right track ensures that only qualified and experienced doctors perform the relevant procedures in a safe and effective manner.
What’s in store for you in the upcoming months?
We are excited to announce that we are the first clinic in Malaysia to provide an all-new, unique laser treatment known as the PicoSure. This system is a breakthrough for patient’s seeking a way to improve their skin and reduce signs of ageing but who do not want to deal with the risks, pain and downtime of traditional laser treatments. Using highly targeted energy, this laser addresses pigmentation, removes tattoos, improves wrinkles, age lines and even acne scars!
Find out more about MAC Clinic and some of the treatments The Yum List has tried here and here.
Can stay looking young and beautiful, eh? Hmmm…toolate for me. LOL!!!
What an interesting interview I really enjoyed this post. Have a good Sunday, cheers Diane
An interesting interview. This is a young but dynamically developing industry.