Pros of leaving the NHS for aesthetics

Discover the benefits of transitioning from the NHS to a career in aesthetic medicine

Pros of leaving the NHS for aesthetics

1. Flexibility and autonomy in practice

In private practice, such as aesthetic medicine, you can have greater flexibility and autonomy, designing your working life around your preferences and interests.

This allows you to take a more personalised approach to patient care and treatment planning, fostering creativity and innovation.

With aesthetics expanding into more and more areas surrounding longevity, menopause and wellness, this allows you to take a more preventative approach to managing patients, too.

2. Potential for higher earnings

In our annual survey, 32% listed financial reasons as their primary driver for embarking on a career in aesthetics. Aesthetics is a rapidly growing sector, and treatments often command premium fees, offering you the potential for significantly higher earnings compared to NHS salaries.

According to recent statistics, the global medical aesthetics market was estimated to be worth $15.4 (£12.4) billion in 2023 and is poised to reach $25.9 (£20.41) billion by 2028, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 11.0% from 2023 to 2028.

Technological advancements are driving this growth, increasing consumer demand for non-invasive cosmetic procedures and a growing emphasis on self-care and personal well-being. Check out our article on pricing strategies.

3. Focus on elective procedures

Unlike the NHS, which primarily focuses on providing essential healthcare services and treating illness, aesthetic medicine focuses on elective procedures.

In short, your patients are not sick; they are choosing to have treatment to enhance their appearance and well-being. Not only can this be less stressful, but it can also lead to greater job satisfaction and fulfilment.

4. Enhanced work-life balance

Long working hours and changing shift patterns can be exhausting for medical professionals working in the NHS.

Moving to a career in aesthetics can offer a better work-life balance compared to the demanding schedules often associated with NHS roles. You have more control over your working hours and can tailor your practice to accommodate personal commitments, improving overall well-being and job satisfaction.

It may be that you have a young family and want to spend more time with them or that you have hobbies and interests you’d like to pursue outside of work. Working in the private sector gives you more options.