Tara Cypher FNP-BC, MSN, CANS

I found my way into the field of aesthetics purely by chance. And I found my calling! I was teaching medical classes and my clinical assistant went to interview for a manager position at a spa. They were looking for an injector as well. My youngest son was starting school, and I was ready to return to full-time employment. I spent a year training and learning the industry – injectables, energy devices, weight loss, customer service, and in-office surgical procedures. I found my niche! I have passion for my career. There is so much to learn and perfect; I never get bored. The relationship with my patients brings me tremendous satisfaction.

CANS is a designation of specialist in Aesthetic Nursing. To qualify to take the examination, a provider needs to meet specific requirements, such as time in practice, patient hours, and sponsorship by a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon. The designation requires a broad knowledge base, certified examinations, and continued education requirements related to aesthetic research. As a patient, it lets you know that your provider is experienced, knowledgeable, up-to-date, and well-supported by a plastic surgeon.

Pick a provider that will listen to you and have open and honest conversations about long-term goals. I would recommend forming a partnership with someone you feel you can trust, recognizing that the best results are not achieved in a single visit. Be transparent about what you want and your budget. The right provider will help you prioritize and keep a balanced aesthetic.

Have realistic expectations. Fillers and BOTOX do not lift muscles or tissues – only surgical correction can do that. The best treatment leaves you looking refreshed, not necessarily with dramatic results. If you don’t like your results, know that injections are temporary. But give the treatments time to work. Fillers and neuromodulators take a full month to reach optimal results; microneedling and collagen stimulators take six weeks to start seeing results; and medical-grade skincare products take three months to show results and often a series of treatments is required. Be patient and go slowly. We will adjust as needed.