Frequently Asked Questions
Explore our most frequently asked questions to gain a better understanding of our programs, policies, and offerings. If you don’t see the information you’re looking for, we’re here to help!
Have more questions? Don’t hesitate to contact us—we’re happy to assist you on your journey to a successful career in Medical Aesthetics!
Why study Medical Aesthetics?
Traditional esthetics is evolving, and Medical Aesthetics is leading the way! This rapidly growing field offers advanced, medical-grade, results-driven treatments, allowing professionals to expand their skills, clientele, and profitability. With specialized training in Medical Aesthetics and Aesthetic Lasers, professionals increase their hiring potential and gain opportunities to work in dermatology offices, plastic surgery centers, medspas, and beyond. Elevate your career with cutting-edge education designed for today’s aesthetic industry!
Can I make more money in Medical Aesthetics?
The shorter answer is, yes! The field of Medical Aesthetics is expanding rapidly, offering advanced, medical-grade, and results-driven treatments that elevate both your skill set and earning potential. With specialized training in aesthetic lasers and medical aesthetics, professionals can increase their profitability by offering higher-value services. For example, an esthetician might perform a waxing service for $20, while a laser treatment in the same time frame could generate $200 or more. By incorporating cutting-edge treatments, you can fill your book with high-demand, high-profit services and grow your career in medspas, dermatology clinics, plastic surgery centers, and beyond!
What is the difference between our program and others?
There are many Medical Aesthetics programs available, but not all are created equal. While some may offer similar content, the Institute of Medical Aesthetics (IOMA) is a diploma program, providing comprehensive training in Medical Aesthetics and Aesthetic Lasers. Unlike certificate-based courses, IOMA is licensed by the State Board of Private Licensed Schools, ensuring the highest educational standards. Our curriculum goes beyond basic instruction, diving into the science behind each treatment and preparing students for employment in medspas, dermatology clinics, and plastic surgery centers. Comparable to a traditional esthetics or college-level program, students must complete multiple courses and assessments to earn their diploma in Medical Aesthetics.
What is a Medical Director?
A medical director is a medical professional, usually a physician, that oversees the a healthcare facility. This is especially important in a medical spa because each oemployee works under the supervision and liability insurance of a medical director's license. A medical director is there in case of any medical emergency that may occur during treatment.
Do I need a Medical Director?
The short answer is yes. If you want to open your own medical spa or medical aesthetic practice, you are required by law to have a medical director. Laws may differ state to state regarding who may be a medical director or what those legal partnerships may look like. Consulting a an attorney is essential to ensuring you are setting up your business for success.
What does a typical day in the program look like?
Our programs are built to work around your scheudule, so it can absolutely depend! Our programs are online and asynchronous, meaning that you work at your own pace. These programs have no specific deadlines or due dates. The exception would be a for the in-person lab required for the Aesthetic Lasers Program or Combination Program. The in-person lab, requires you to come to our campus for the 8th week of your program.
Why do I need this program?
At IOMA, we believe that education is power and you can never stop learning. Currently, the laws and regulations regarding the field of Medical Aesthetics, however, there is a push for change. Having advanced training and education provides you with the skills needed to safely provide treatments to patients and clients. It also proves to lawmakers and regulators that estheticians are capable of providing these treatments.
Should I take the program if I am already certified?
A common misconception is that a certificate and a certification are the same. According to Forbes Magazine, a certificate is awarded after completing an academic program, while a certification is a professional credential earned through training or assessment. A certificate does not mean a Licensed Aesthetician is certified. Additionally, certificate courses can be taught by anyone, meaning some instructors may lack proper qualifications.
Do you work with financial aid?
Unfortunately, as of now, we do not work with FAFSA, although it is a goal of ours in the future! We do, however, offer customized payment plans.
Do you work with the GI Bill?
Unfortunately, as of now, we do not work with the GI Bill, although it is a goal of ours in the future! We do, however, offer customized payment plans.
Do I have to stay in Lancaster during the in-person lab week?
No, it is not required. We are just a few short blocks from the Amtrak station, an hour from Harrisburg, and less than two hours from Philadelphia. We do recommend staying in the area for our students that are traveling over two hours. We have partnered with local hotels and restaurants so that your stay in Lancaster is pleasant, organized, and easy!
Do I have to be an esthetician to apply?
No, we accept estheticians, cosmetologists, medical assistants, nurses, nurse practitioners, physician assitants, and physicians. We do require proof of licensure during the application process.
Can I open my own business after this program?
The short answer is yes. If you want to open your own medical spa or medical aesthetic practice, you are required by law to have a medical director. Laws may differ state to state regarding who may be a medical director or what those legal partnerships may look like. Consulting an attorney is essential to ensuring you are setting up your business for success.
How long are IOMA's programs?
At IOMA, we offer two programs: the Medical Aesthetics Program (8 weeks, entirely online) and the Aesthetic Lasers Program (8 weeks, with 7 weeks online and 1 in-person hands-on training week). Students may choose to enroll in both programs, receiving credit for overlapping coursework. This allows them to complete both programs in 10 weeks (9 weeks online, 1 in-person week).