Meet Dr Kat Bennett

A focus on care, confidence and aesthetics

Dr Kat Bennett’s background is in general practice and dermatology, she brings not only her surgical experience to the Melior team, but an artistic eye and a passion for helping patients to live confident lives.

Read more about Kat’s commitment to finding the best skincare outcome for her patients, and a little more about her background and her as a person.

When did you know that the medical profession was for you?

“It actually stemmed from primary school!  It’s always been a path I wanted to take – whether or not it came from playing with the medical kit stethoscope I can’t say!

“I can genuinely say that I enjoy it, every day. It’s a privilege to work with so many patients and very rewarding.”

Why did you choose to specialise in dermatology?

“I was initially a GP – for me, it was important to be part of patients’ lives and follow their journey – General Practice enables this.

“Through the course of my work, I saw a lot of patients with skin problems, so this became my specialist interest and lead to my training in dermatology. My later experience focused on the aesthetic side of dermatology, which has become my passion.

“We all get skin problems at some time in our lives, and they can have a huge impact on our self-esteem and our mental health.

“I am able to combine my experience as a GP with dermatology. My aim is to bring empathy, a holistic approach and high standards of care to every patient.”

Skin issues have a huge impact on self-esteem and mental health.

How did you come to work at Melior Clinics?

“I happened to meet one of the Melior Clinics practitioners at a training course who was extremely complimentary about the clinic and said what a lovely place it was to work.

“It was a happy coincidence that the very next week I saw an advertisement for a dermatology consultant.

“Melior Clinics have the highest standards of care with patient wellbeing at the heart of what they do.

“The aesthetic area of medicine has become very money-orientated. With Melior Clinics, the patient and the medical approach come first – this is why I like working here so much.”

What can patients expect from a skin consultation with you?

“For me, the skin consultation is an extremely important part of a patient’s skincare journey. Whether they have come to me with specific issues such as acne, rosacea, pigmentation, or to start the right skincare to prevent the signs of ageing, it’s here that we get to know each other and where the path forward begins.

“There are three main parts of the consultation and analysis process:

1. Firstly, I need to have an understanding of the patient’s medical history to take as holistic approach as possible to the individual experience of that person and their care requirements.
2. Then I can analyse the specific issue that the patient would like to address and the most appropriate treatment.
3. Consent is a key part of the process, to ensure that the patient has full understanding about any potential treatment and the likely outcomes.

“It is paramount to understand the impart of the particular skin issue on the patient’s life. For many patients their lives will also be much improved through appropriate treatment.”

Kat was great; super cautious, very exacting, friendly and professional.

DC, who visited Dr Kat at our Harley Street clinic

What are the most common skin issues?

“It’s important to realise that every patient is different. I always treat every patient and their skin consultation with fresh eyes because there is no ‘one size fits all’.

“In general, there are some overarching themes amongst patients – concerns about ageing skin, acne scarring, fine lines and skin texture irregularities are all extremely common.”

Why do patients decide to go ahead with a skin consultation?

“I often find that there is a particular catalyst in a person’s life that spurs them on with starting their skincare journey.  It might be a marriage, a divorce, a new relationship or a special upcoming event. Whatever the reason, it’s always the start of something positive in their life.

“Investing in your skin is for the long-term, there is not always a quick fix. But it’s never too late, or too early, to start.”

What types of advice and treatment do you provide?

“As a dermatologist, I can prescribe medical grade skincare treatment for certain conditions such as acne for example.

“For some patients it might be more appropriate to recommend treatment for skin resurfacing such as a chemical peel, which I will carry out myself.

“Homecare regimes are an important part of my advice. There are so many products and treatments on the market, it’s difficult to choose what’s right.

“Patients can often feel overwhelmed by choice and can spend a lot of money on products that aren’t medical grade and therefore won’t give the same results.

“I can give patients the confidence that product choices are right for them in the short and long term.”

What is your favourite aspect of the role?

“I get the greatest pleasure from helping people to feel better about themselves, giving them more confidence and better self-esteem.

“For me, it’s not about the treatments, it’s about individual outcomes, however the range of options available mean that it’s possible to achieve long lasting control of often very severe symptoms.”

Is there a particular scenario that stands out in your experience?

“One memorable patient in particular had been suffering for a long with hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating) and had become quite isolated because of it. It was rewarding to be able to provide treatment that would hugely improve their quality of life.”

What do you enjoy in your spare time?

“I am a mum of three so I love spending time with my family, but I also enjoy yoga, running and walking our Cavapoo!”

Book a consultation with Kat

If you would like Kat to assess and discuss your specific skincare requirements you can book online or, if you prefer, call us on 0330 024 1300 or email us at info@meliorclinics.co.uk.

Specialist skin consultations are available at our Save Face accredited clinic at Harley Street. The initial consultation is free and you can start your treatment straight away if desired.