*Aesthetic Appointment Journal is a proud media partner of Aesthetic Symposium Cape Town *
In aesthetic medicine, safety is sophistication. Our ability to deliver natural, confident results for our patients depends not just on artistry, but on evidence-based anatomy, precise technique, and sound clinical judgment.
The next evolution of our field isn’t about new products, it’s about mastering safety. Under the banner of Aesthetic Symposium Cape Town (ASCT), we are proud to introduce our next hands-on educational experience:
Filler Safety Guided by Clinical Anatomy – A Practical Workshop.
This one-day workshop focuses on achieving safer filler outcomes through anatomical precision, risk awareness, and the intelligent integration of technology, including ultrasound as a visual support tool.
This course is not about becoming an ultrasonographer.
It’s about being a better, safer injector. It’s about understanding exactly where your product is going, why complications happen, and how to prevent and manage them with clinical confidence.
A World-Class Faculty Focused on Patient Safety
Dr Wade Merchant
Medical Director of Natural Aesthetics Practices’ three locations, Dr Merchant has over a decade of clinical experience and is currently completing his MSc in Clinical Anatomy at the University of Stellenbosch.
His research focuses on ultrasound-guided vascular mapping for facial injectable treatments, exploring how real-time imaging can enhance filler protocols and patient safety.
As a Galderma Mentor Trainer for over seven years, he has helped countless practitioners bridge the gap between theoretical anatomy and live, clinical application, transforming how we see, think, and inject.
His mission is clear: Elevating clinical precision in aesthetic medicine
Prof Hamzah Mustak
Prof. Hamzah Mustak is an ophthalmologist with a special interest in ocular oncology, oculoplastic and orbital surgery. He currently serves as President of both the South African Society of Oculoplastic Surgery (SASOPS) as well as the African Society of Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (AFSOPRS).
He completed his specialist training at the University of Cape Town and a fellowship at the Stein Eye Institute, Los Angeles, where he developed a deep interest in filler complications.
Prof. Mustak has published extensively on vascular complications of fillers, ultrasound-guided vascular identification, and emergency management protocols.
With 34 published articles and four book chapters, he brings academic excellence and ethical leadership to this course, and will also present the Ethics in Aesthetic Medicine session, accredited for CPD Ethics points.
What You’ll Learn
This full-day program blends theory, clinical reasoning, and hands-on practice to refine your injection safety protocols.
Key topics include:
- The new safety paradigm – beyond blind injection
- Critical facial anatomy and vascular mapping for injectors
- Pre-treatment risk assessment and medico-legal documentation
- Evidence-based injection techniques for complication prevention
- Emergency management and hyaluronidase protocols
- Technology integration – including ultrasound for safety and filler assessment
- Ethics in adopting new technologies responsibly
Hands-on sessions will allow participants to practice safety workflows, map anatomy, simulate emergency management, and trial different imaging technologies designed to improve precision and confidence.
Event Details
🗓 Date: Wednesday, 22 October 2025
📍 Venue: Protea Hotel, Breakwater Lodge, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town
🎯 For: Medical doctors and dentists in aesthetic practice
💰 Cost: R7 500 (Full-day workshop including materials and device access)
📜 CPD: Accredited for General and Ethics CPD Points
Spaces are limited: www.maskhero.co.za
A Note from the Organiser
As the founder of the Aesthetic Symposium Cape Town, my goal has always been to create educational spaces by doctors, for doctors. Spaces that are independent, ethical, and focused on real clinical growth.
This workshop represents what ASCT stands for: collaboration without commercial influence, science without ego, and a shared commitment to patient safety.
Filler safety is not just a module; it’s our professional responsibility. Join us for a day of knowledge, skill-building, and connection as we continue to shape a safer, smarter, and more responsible aesthetic future.
Warm regards,
Dr Barlodien Kotze
Founder | Aesthetic Symposium Cape Town
About the author
Dr Barlodien Kotzé is a General Practitioner with a dedicated interest in Aesthetic Medicine with over 15 years of experience in the field, and in private practice at Sculptique. Proficient in a wide range of facial contouring techniques utilising Botulinum Toxin, HA fillers, biostimulators, nanofat, and fat grafting, she focuses on enhancing her patients' natural beauty while promoting confidence and a vibrant complexion.
In addition to her expertise in aesthetic procedures, Dr Kotzé is deeply passionate about regenerative medicine and the potential of autologous mesenchymal stem cells for natural healing and repair. She is affiliated with The Cell Surgical Network®, where she collaborates with fellow professionals dedicated to advancing adult stem cell regenerative medicine to address various inflammatory and degenerative conditions.
Recognised for her expertise, Dr Kotzé is a respected trainer in the field of Aesthetic Medicine and serves on the Executive Committee of AAMSSA. Her commitment to ongoing education is evident in her role in organizing the annual Aesthetic Symposium Cape Town, where she facilitates learning and knowledge exchange within the aesthetic community.