Today we’d like to introduce you to Natacha Christeler
Hi Natacha, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
My love of science started during childhood. I was always fascinated by how things worked and found science almost magical and amazing; Ironically, I remember winning my 6th-grade science fair using liquid nitrogen to freeze carnations, only to use it years later during medical procedures. My family is from Lausanne Switzerland, well known for medical science. My father was a physics major and mother a sociologist. I guess you could say science and caring for others is in my DNA.
I graduated from the University of New Hampshire with my bachelor’s degree in nursing and then attended the Yale University Externship Program. I later received my Masters of Science in Nursing. I have over 23 years of experience in acute care having worked in the hospital setting for many of those years. My career started in Oncology, where I became a clinical nurse specialist in pain management. Pain management for my patients is paramount every day in my practice and I am always researching ways to make patients more comfortable and perform treatments with little to no pain.
Over the years, I have worked in cardiology, surgical and vascular care, urology, women’s health, endocrinology & diabetic care, and critical care – all of which help me to provide superior care as an Aesthetic Nurse Practitioner at the Garden Medical Spa and Plastic Surgery Center. I now have the pleasure of working side by side with renowned Plastic Surgeon – Dr. Michael Mirmanesh, assisting in all types of plastic surgery procedures. I try to empower patients to look and feel their best through lifestyle changes, diet, self-care, and both non-surgical and surgical aesthetic procedures.
I have been personally trained by some of the of most acclaimed and decorated aesthetic experts from around the world, bringing a level of expertise and experience to all clients matched by only a select few practitioners across the country. My experience includes multiple trainings and certification in the Swift Beauty Method by Dr. Arthur Swift, a pioneer in the injectable medicine beauty industry. I was honored to be one of only 50 aesthetic experts around the world to be part of Julie Horne’s Inner Circle and trained and honored with the SAI certification at the Swiss Aesthetic Institute. As an attendee of many trainings with Julie Horne and her world-famous Lip Beautification technique, I have become known for natural and patient-specific lip filler enhancement results. In addition, I have been internationally trained and certified by Dr. Tim Pierce (Global Aesthetics Educator and complications expert), Dr. Christian Subbio renowned plastic surgeon, and Dr. Raj Acquilla, a global leading facial aesthetic expert, known for cultivating patient specific outcomes with consideration to gender, patient goals, and ethnicity. Most recently, I was blessed to be awarded as one of the Top 100 Best Aesthetic Injectors in America by my clients and peers. I was also recognized and honored by the Foundation for Aesthetic Excellence as a 2023 Master Injector.
Beyond the treatment room, I am a sought-after leader and trainer, frequently speaking at conferences and contributing to industry publications worldwide.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
I believe struggle is what makes us stronger and has given me empathy for my patients. I was a patient, who for over 20 years struggled with no answers and no suggested ways to improve my health. Despite a successful nursing career, I struggled with chronic fatigue and numerous chronic autoimmune conditions. I was told time and time again, my labs were normal and there was no reason for me feeling tired, having stomach pain, and mood swings. It was through much of my own trial and error and research that led me to a path of health, as well as finally receiving a diagnosis of Hashimoto’s autoimmune thyroiditis, as well as several other autoimmune conditions.
For years I struggled physically, which affected my self-esteem and how I felt about my appearance. I remember feeling horrible but was given a gift card for neuromodulators, (Botox, Xeomin, Jeveau) and a facial. Even though it was only temporary, it was the self-care and confidence I needed, that gave me the little bit of courage to advocate for myself and belief that I deserved better medical care and answers.
Sometimes patients seek wellness through beauty that can transcend to physical health. Change can be hard and humbling. Going from an expert to novice takes courage, particularly as an adult in a known career and changing to one vastly different. The transition from the hospital setting to becoming a Functional Medicine / Aesthetic Nurse Practitioner has been challenging but has transformed my life and professional career.
We’ve been impressed with The Garden Medical Spa and Plastic Surgery Center, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
The Garden Medical Spa and Plastic Surgery Center is more than just a facility—it’s a destination where art and science converge to create exceptional aesthetic outcomes. As a world-class Aesthetic Injector, I have the privilege of working alongside a renowned plastic surgeon, Dr. Michael Mirmanesh, combining our expertise to deliver results that exceed patient expectations. At the Garden Medical Spa and Plastic Surgery Center, we have patients that seek us out from around the country to come experience the Garden difference!
What Sets Us Apart:
Our center is distinguished by a commitment to excellence in every aspect of care. We offer a holistic approach to beauty and wellness, blending advanced medical techniques with a personalized, patient-centered focus. Our team is dedicated to continuous education and staying at the forefront of the latest aesthetic innovations, ensuring that our patients receive the most up-to-date and effective treatments available.
Brand Identity and Pride:
We are most proud of our brand’s reputation for safety, precision, and natural-looking results. At The Garden, we believe in enhancing our patients’ inherent beauty rather than creating artificial changes. This philosophy is reflected in the meticulous attention to detail and artistry we bring to every procedure, whether it’s a subtle enhancement or a transformative surgery.
Offerings and Services:
Our comprehensive suite of services caters to a wide range of aesthetic needs. From non-surgical treatments like Botox, fillers, and advanced skin rejuvenation to more complex surgical procedures, we tailor each plan to the unique goals of our patients. We also provide pre- and post-procedure care that supports optimal healing and results.
What Readers Should Know:
Choosing The Garden Medical Spa and Plastic Surgery Center means choosing a team that prioritizes your safety, comfort, and satisfaction above all else. Our commitment to excellence is evident not only in the results we deliver but also in the relationships we build with our patients. We are here to guide you through every step of your aesthetic journey, ensuring that you feel informed, confident, and cared for at every stage.
What Makes Me Happiest in My Work:
That is an easy question. What makes me happy is when my patients tell me how ecstatic they are, both in how they feel physically and how they look aesthetically. Internal health and wellness, as well as feeling beautiful has such as strong connection and is a two-way street.
Another aspect of happiness comes from my love of teaching and continued learning. Education is about empowerment, specifically to my patients, but for myself and my colleagues as well. Knowledge is always power and when we know better, we do better. When patients are educated, they are empowered to be their own advocates, not just within our office but in life. Too often in the medical, and the aesthetic world, we fail to really explain to patients the why and how. I believe when patients understand the rationale behind recommendations and care, they become an integral part of their treatment plan and more engaged. When patients are empowered with knowledge, they are more successful in achieving their health and beauty goals. If I can accomplish this with each and every patient, not only are my patients the happiest they can be, but it gives me happiness, satisfaction and I feel I have done everything I can do for my patients as their advocate and practitioner.
No Fluff just Results!!
The crisis has affected us all in different ways. How has it affected you and any important lessons or epiphanies you can share with us?
The COVID-19 crisis was an unprecedented global challenge that revealed both strengths and weaknesses in public health systems, government responses, and individual behaviors. Reflecting on the lessons learned from this crisis, several key points emerge about how the situation could have been handled more responsibly:
1. Early and Transparent Communication:
One of the critical lessons learned is the importance of timely, clear, and transparent communication from authorities. In the early days of the pandemic, there was confusion and conflicting information, which led to public distrust. Moving forward, it’s essential that governments and health organizations provide accurate, science-based information quickly and consistently to help the public make informed decisions.
2. Preparedness and Rapid Response:
The pandemic highlighted the need for better preparedness and rapid response mechanisms. Countries with well-established public health infrastructures and pandemic preparedness plans were better equipped to manage the crisis. Investing in robust healthcare systems, stockpiling essential supplies, and developing contingency plans for future pandemics should be a priority to prevent similar situations.
3. Global Cooperation:
COVID-19 underscored the importance of global cooperation in managing a worldwide health crisis. Sharing data, research, and resources across borders can accelerate the development of treatments and help contain the spread of the virus. International organizations and governments should work together more closely to create a unified response to future pandemics.
4. Equity in Healthcare Access:
The pandemic revealed significant disparities in healthcare access, both within countries and globally. Marginalized and vulnerable populations were disproportionately affected by COVID-19. Future responses must prioritize equity, ensuring that all communities have access to necessary healthcare services, accurate information as to safety and risks of all treatments, regardless of socioeconomic status.
5. Importance of Mental Health:
The mental health impact of the pandemic was profound, as people faced isolation, anxiety, and grief. Much of which was unnecessary due to false and conflicting information distributed by government and medical community.
6. Responsible Leadership:
Leadership played a crucial role in the success or failure of pandemic responses. Leaders who prioritized public health, listened to scientific advice, and acted decisively were more successful in controlling the spread of the virus. Moving forward, responsible leadership must include a commitment to science-based decision-making and the welfare of the public.
7. Public Health Over Politics:
The politicization of public health measures, such as mask-wearing and vaccination, was a significant issue during the COVID-19 pandemic. To handle such crises more responsibly in the future, it is crucial to keep public health measures separate from political agendas. Public trust in health directives is vital for compliance and effectiveness. Science based advice and information should always supersede political agendas.
8. Community Engagement and Trust:
Building trust within communities and engaging them in the response efforts are critical for compliance with public health measures. Empowering local leaders, community organizations, and influencers to disseminate accurate and true information and encourage safe practices can lead to better outcomes in future health crises.
9. Flexibility and Adaptability:
The pandemic taught us the importance of being flexible and adaptable in response to rapidly changing situations. Public health strategies need to be dynamic, allowing for adjustments based on new data and developments. Sticking rigidly to outdated plans can lead to unnecessary harm and distrust from the public.
In summary, the COVID-19 crisis taught us the importance of preparedness, clear communication, equity, and responsible leadership in managing global health emergencies. By applying these lessons, we can better protect public health from bad advice and recommendations and ensure a more effective response to future crises.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.thegardenmedspa.com
- Instagram: @Injectortasha
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Injectortasha
- Other: @thegardenmedspatampabay
