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Understanding the TGA Cosmetic Medicine Advertising Changes

Posted on by Michelle Dodd

On 7 March 2024, the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) updated the advertising guidelines for cosmetic medicine in Australia. These changes affect how nurses and doctors can communicate about treatments, pricing, and outcomes.

What the TGA Changed

Previously, practitioners could use indirect terms such as “anti-wrinkle injections” and “dermal fillers” to refer to prescription-only medications used in non-surgical cosmetic treatments. Direct references to brand names or ingredients were never permitted. The new TGA guidance removes the allowance for indirect terms.

The TGA also changed:

  • Advertising price lists for prescription-only medications is not permitted
  • Sharing before-and-after photos publicly is no longer allowed
  • Posting product testimonials or claims about medications is prohibited
  • Patients cannot self-select treatments online; prescribing decisions are solely made by the practitioner

The TGA states: “Decisions about treatments that involve the use of prescription medicines should only be made by a health professional in consultation with each individual patient.”

Business Name and Booking System Changes

The TGA also clarified that business names can be considered advertising. This is why the clinic name is now “MD Cosmetic Nurse”. Booking system labels for treatments must also be general consultations (e.g., Wrinkle Reduction, Volume Loss, Skin Hydration) rather than naming specific medications.

What This Means for Patients

Although public information about treatments, pricing, and before-and-after images is restricted:

  • Consultations remain available for all the same treatments I have provided for over 12 years
  • All treatment details, suitability, and options can only be discussed during a consultation
  • Reception staff cannot provide this information due to legal requirements; please do not be frustrated with them
  • If you have questions about bookings or consultations, you can contact me directly for guidance

These changes are designed to protect patients and ensure treatment decisions are personalised, and medically appropriate.

Why Book a Consultation

A consultation with MD Cosmetic Nurse ensures:

  • Individual assessment is tailored to your facial anatomy
  • Your facial concerns will be addressed
  • To identify expected treatment outcomes
  • Evidence-based recommendations, if deemed suitable
  • Risks, pricing and aftercare of treatments are thoroughly explained
  • Your make informed decisions to have a medical procedure

Book a Consultation today to discuss your individual needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What changed in the TGA advertising guidelines in March 2024?

The TGA removed the allowance for indirect terms like “anti-wrinkle injections” and “dermal fillers” for cosmetic prescription-only medications. This means public advertising of product names, prices, before-and-after photos, and claims about prescription-only medications is no longer permitted.

Can I still see before-and-after photos online?

No. Before-and-after photos for prescription-only treatments can now only be shared during a consultation to comply with TGA regulations.

Can I book a specific treatment online?

No. Patients can now only book a general consultation, such as Wrinkle Reduction, Volume Loss, Skin Hydration, or Rejuran, because the prescribing decision is made by the practitioner during your consultation.

Why did MD Cosmetic Nurse change the business name?

The TGA considers business names as a form of advertising. To remain compliant, the clinic is now named MD Cosmetic Nurse, removing references to “injections” in the title.

Will these changes affect the quality of my consultation?

No. Consultations remain fully personalised and evidence-based. You will receive tailored treatment recommendations based on your anatomy, goals, and suitability.

Who can provide information about treatments or medications?

Only the Registered Nurse or practitioner during a consultation can discuss prescription-only medications. Reception staff cannot give this information due to legal restrictions.

Do these changes affect all cosmetic treatments?

They only affect treatments involving prescription-only medications. Non-prescription treatments or general advice can still be discussed freely such as Rejuran.

What happens to the jaw bone when we age?

Posted on by Michelle Dodd

As we age, it’s natural for bones to lose density and strength — a process called bone resorption. Bone resorption occurs when old bone is broken down by cells called osteoclasts, followed by the formation of new bone by osteoblasts. Over time, the balance shifts: bone resorption outpaces bone formation, leading to a gradual loss of bone mass and strength. The jaw bone (mandible) is not exempt from this process.

How Bone Changes Affect Facial Structure

Research comparing CT scans of young and aged skulls shows that as we age:

  • The eye sockets widen and lengthen
  • The nose, brow, and upper jaw decrease in angles
  • The lower jaw shortens in both length and height

These changes mean the jaw gradually transforms from an “L” shape at the jaw angle into a more vertical, italic-like shape. This affects the overlying facial tissues — skin, muscles, and fat pads — causing hollowing and sagging over time.

Age and Gender Differences in Jaw Bone Changes

Studies analysing skulls from people aged 20–40, 31–64, and over 65 found:

  • Bone changes occur in both men and women
  • Women may experience noticeable jaw bone changes earlier, from young to middle age, while men tend to show similar changes later in life

Understanding these natural changes can help explain why facial volume loss, hollowing under the cheeks, and sagging around the jawline occur with age.

Why This Matters for Facial Aesthetic Treatments

Changes in the jaw bone affect the support for facial soft tissue. Recognising the underlying structural changes is critical when planning treatments such as:

Using an evidence-based, consultation-led approach ensures any treatments are personalised, focus on safety, and aligned with your facial anatomy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens to the jaw bone as we age?

As we age, the jaw bone naturally loses density and height due to bone resorption. This affects the support for overlying facial tissues, leading to hollowing around the cheeks, jawline, and under the eyes.

Does jaw bone aging affect everyone the same way?

Bone changes occur in both men and women, but women often experience noticeable changes earlier, from young to middle age. Men tend to show similar changes at a later stage.

How does jaw bone aging affect the appearance of my face?

Jaw bone changes reduce support for skin, muscle, and fat pads. This can result in visible hollowing, sagging, and changes in facial contours over time.

Can facial aesthetic treatments help with jaw bone changes?

Bone loss itself cannot be reversed non-surgically. A consultation to discuss volume loss treatments ensures treatments are personalised.

Why is a consultation important before treatment?

Why is a consultation important before treatment?

What is the role of ultrasound in facial consultations?

Ultrasound can be used to visualise underlying structures such as fat pads and muscles, helping plan safe and effective treatment. This is particularly useful for patients concerned about volume loss or hollowing.