The NZSCM Anatomy Weekend

New Zealand's only dissection workshop dedicated to cosmetic medicine.

The NZSCM Anatomy Weekend

NZSCM Anatomy Weekend is a one-of-a-kind experience, a hands-on event designed to deepen your anatomical understanding, sharpen your emergency response, and elevate your confidence in clinical practice. Held annually in Auckland, this workshop is the only dedicated facial anatomy and emergency training event in New Zealand tailored specifically for cosmetic medicine practitioners.

Across the weekend, you’ll explore anatomy with purpose, not just identifying structures, but understanding how they shape treatment outcomes, affect safety, and underpin everything we do in cosmetic medicine. 

The content is updated year to year, ensuring fresh insights into the latest scientific knowledge, anatomical discoveries, and safety protocols.

We’re lucky to have some of the country’s leading experts, plastic surgeons Dr Zac Moaveni and Mr Duncan Bayne, and oculoplastic surgeon Dr Paul Rosser, sharing their knowledge and contributing their expertise to the event.

This day wouldn’t be possible without Dr Paul Nola, who brings it all together each year out of his deep passion for advancing the field of cosmetic medicine.

What to Expect

Saturday: Anatomy Dissection Lab

Day one is an immersive dissection experience. Rotate through six interactive stations led by a faculty of expert surgeons and experienced NZSCM injectors. Each station is designed to help you:

  • Visualise critical anatomy in 3D

  • Understand the planes, vessels, and nerves that matter

  • Translate theory into safer, more precise technique

Whether it’s the tear trough, the lip, the orbit, or the medial cheek this is real anatomy, applied to real cosmetic practice.

Sunday: Emergency Response + Hyalase Training

The second half-day focuses on emergency preparedness in cosmetic medicine. This session includes:

  • Emergency response protocols

  • Vascular occlusion recognition and management

  • Anaphylaxis, seizures, and cardiac event response

  • A practical, hands-on Hyalase session

You’ll leave equipped to act swiftly and safely in high-stakes situations, this is an essential skillset for any injector.

Who Can Attend?

Open to doctors, nurses, and dentists working in cosmetic medicine. Whether you’re early in your injecting journey or looking to sharpen your anatomy skills after years in practice, the Anatomy Weekend offers fresh insights and unparalleled access to expert teaching. 

CPD and Accreditation

NZSCM is recognised by the Royal New Zealand College of General Practitioners (RNZCGP) as an approved provider of Continuing Professional Development (CPD). Participants are eligible to claim CPD points upon completion.

Why It Matters

Cosmetic medicine isn’t just about technique; it’s about understanding the why behind every decision. This workshop brings that ‘why’ to life.

It’s an opportunity to:

  • Learn directly from field-leading experts

  • Ask the questions that matter 

  • Connect with colleagues 

  • Build confidence through hands-on experience

  • Strengthen your foundation of safe, ethical practice

With limited spots available, the NZSCM Anatomy Weekend is widely regarded as one of the most valuable training events, and it only happens once a year.


Dr Paul Nola was funny, engaging, and informative. Dr Sean Arendse's talk was a great refresher and offered insight into topical resuscitation. Wonderful weekend of insight and social engagement. I will definitely sign up again, thank you. 

Ambar Sagar, RN
Auckland

All 6 stations were amazing! Dr Paul Nola was clear, concise, excellent. The Hyalase session was brilliant. Learnt a lot despite being an injecting nurse for over 20 years! Loved the drinks - so good to mingle and chat after a fab day. Well organised. Thanks.

Suzy Raetz, RN
Queenstown

The Anatomy Weekend was a game-changer for my practice. Loved all the stations, educators were all great! Great relevant content. I loved the entire weekend! Even since the last one - content was changed so makes it interesting.

Rashida Memon, RN
Auckland

It was so much better seeing anatomy in person, photos are great but not as great as actually seeing and feeling it. I really wish I did it earlier. Dr Stefania Roberts was great, it’s awesome to see various images and complex complications.

Dr Vanisi Prescott
Auckland

Thank you for the weekend, it was totally worthwhile and inspiring. A great and well-organised event and worth returning for in the future. The pen with the Adverse Event line is a great idea, thank you for arranging this opportunity for help if needed.

Amy Mead, RN
Queenstown

FAQ's

Do I need prior dissection experience to take part?

No previous dissection experience is required. The faculty guide you through each station step by step, with plenty of time for questions and hands-on learning.

What should I wear in the lab?

The dissection lab is kept at a low temperature for preservation reasons, so dress warmly and comfortably. PPE gear will be supplied.

Does the programme change each year?

Yes. Dr Paul Nola and Dr Jenni Irvine adapt the content annually, bringing in new cases, anatomical focus areas, and safety updates. Even if you’ve attended before, it’s always different.

Why is this such a unique learning experience?

Nothing compares to seeing anatomy in 3D and exploring it hands-on. It bridges the gap between theory and practice in a way that textbooks, diagrams, or even digital tools cannot.

How big are the groups?

In the lab numbers are kept small, 6-7 per station, so everyone can see clearly, ask questions, and participate fully.

Can I come if I’m a trainee or new to cosmetic medicine?

Yes. The weekend is designed to benefit both new injectors and experienced practitioners looking to deepen or refresh their understanding.

Is there a social or networking aspect?

Yes. Saturday ends with an informal drinks session, a chance to connect with colleagues and faculty in a relaxed setting.

Will I recieve a certificate?

Yes. Participants receive a certificate of attendance, which can be used for CPD documentation.

How quickly does it book out?

Very quickly. Spots are limited and previous years have sold out well in advance, so early registration is strongly recommended.