Helping clients look and feel their best

Dr Maria Comyns, Cosmetic Doctor and Director of Why Aesthetics, has always been driven by a passion for aesthetics and a commitment to holistic care. Combining her expertise with a desire to create a nurturing environment for both practitioners and patients, she took a bold step in 2023 by launching her own clinic in Canberra. With a focus on empowering women and delivering exceptional patient outcomes, her journey in the field of aesthetics is a testament to her vision of meaningful care.

What inspired you to pursue a career in your field, and how did you get started?

I’ve always had a passion for aesthetics—both in terms of looking good and feeling good. I’m also deeply committed to creating an environment where women, both as practitioners and patients, are supported holistically—personally and professionally. I believe that when practitioners are nurtured in this way, it directly translates to the best care for patients. In my traditional medical career, I didn’t find this balance, so I felt compelled to create it myself. That’s what inspired me to pursue a career in this field—building a space where both women and their patients can thrive.

What moment in your career are you most proud of, and why does it stand out to you?

The moment I’m most proud of in my career came in December 2023 when we took a bold leap and fully committed to creating our own clinic in Turner. This decision marked a major turning point for our business—it was a huge step toward building something entirely our own. The process of bringing this vision to life, from concept to execution, stands out to me because it represents not just growth, but the realisation of our values and mission in a tangible way. It was a risk, but one that I’m incredibly proud to have taken, knowing it would provide the space and support our team—and our patients—deserve.

What are your favourite things about living and working in the Canberra region?

What I love most about living and working in the Canberra region are the distinct seasons, which bring a beautiful change throughout the year. It’s such a refreshing contrast to experience the crisp winters and warm summers. I also appreciate the opportunities the region offers for families—there’s a strong sense of community and so much to do, whether it’s outdoor activities or cultural events. But what really makes this place special to me is the sense of connection and collaboration among people. There’s a supportive, down-to-earth spirit here that makes it easy to build meaningful relationships, both personally and professionally.

What advice do you have for young people looking to enter the working world?

My advice for young people entering the working world is to stay curious and embrace learning, both on the job and beyond. It’s important to be open to new experiences, even if they push you out of your comfort zone. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, seek mentorship, and build a network of people who inspire and challenge you. At the same time, stay true to your values and passions—finding work that aligns with both will not only make you more successful but also more fulfilled. And remember, career paths aren’t always linear. Sometimes the detours lead to the most rewarding opportunities.

What drives you to continuously enhance your professional skills?

What drives me to continuously enhance my professional skills is the desire to always improve and stay relevant in an ever-evolving field. I’m motivated by the idea that there’s always more to learn and that by pushing myself to grow, I can offer better outcomes for my patients and a stronger support system for my team. I also find inspiration in the challenges that come with evolving in my career—they push me to think creatively and find new ways to make a real impact. For me, continuous learning isn’t just about personal growth; it’s about creating an environment where both I and those around me can succeed and thrive.

How significant is the support of family and friends in helping you throughout your career and life?

The support of my family, friends, and clients has been absolutely essential to both my career and personal life, especially as a mother of four. I couldn’t have achieved what I have without the incredible help of my husband and parents—they’ve been there every step of the way, offering both emotional and practical support. Equally important is the trust and belief of our clients. Their commitment to our care, along with new patients who are willing to take a chance on a new doctor, plays a crucial role in the ongoing success of our business. It’s this combination of personal and professional support—from loved ones and our community—that has been key to our growth and success as practitioners and business owners.

What are your top tips for creating a healthy work-life balance?

I’m actually going to be a bit controversial here—I don’t believe in the concept of a perfect work-life balance. No matter how hard we strive for it, there will always be times when one area of life takes more focus than another. What I do believe in is ensuring your priorities are in balance. For me, those priorities are family, meaningful relationships, health, freedom, and helping others. If what I’m doing doesn’t align with those values, I quickly start to feel out of balance, and that’s when I need to recalibrate. It’s not about equal time for everything—it’s about staying true to what matters most to you and adjusting when necessary to stay connected to those core values.

Why Aesthetics

Suite 10, McKay Gardens Professional Centre, 5 McKay Gardens, Turner

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• W: whyaesthetics.com