Dr. Cosima Karlburger’s New Chapter in Bondi and Her Laser of Choice

By Nicole Montgomery

Sunshine, sea breeze, and a sense of serenity – it might sound like a holiday, but for Dr. Cosima Karlburger, it’s the backdrop of her brand-new purpose-built clinic in Bondi. As one of Australia’s most respected cosmetic physicians, Dr. Cosima has built a reputation for integrity, precision, and glowing results that speak for themselves.

With a career that bridges general medicine and cosmetic dermatology, she brings a depth of knowledge and patient-first philosophy that is increasingly rare in the fast-evolving aesthetics industry. I had the pleasure of sitting down with Dr. Cosima to talk about her journey, the vision for her beautiful new space, and why Aerolase has become her laser of choice.

Dr. Cosima, can you share a little about your journey into cosmetic medicine? What originally sparked your interest?

My journey started in general medicine, where I was always fascinated by dermatology. Over time, I found myself drawn to the aesthetic space, where science and artistry meet.

It was a way to merge my love of medicine with a passion for helping patients feel confident in their skin. As most people, I started small. I was offering skin consultations alongside my GP work, and slowly built a loyal client base. The turning point was realising how much of an impact small, non-invasive changes could make on someone’s wellbeing. That’s when I knew this was the path for me.

How has your background in general medicine shaped your approach in cosmetic practice?

It has truly been invaluable and shaped everything. Understanding systemic health allows me to look at the skin holistically. Aesthetic medicine isn’t just about appearance—it’s about function, inflammation, hormone imbalances, and so much more. My patients benefit from a medically sound, whole-person approach. For example, when assessing acne or pigmentation, I always consider underlying causes, not just surface symptoms.

What values have remained constant throughout your career?

I have 3 core values, integrity, safety, and education. I’m a big believer in never recommending anything to a patient that I wouldn’t consider for myself or a loved one. I stay committed to evidence-based practice and ensuring patients are fully informed.

Congratulations on your beautiful new clinic in Bondi! What was the vision behind creating a purpose-built space?

Thank you! This clinic has been a dream in the making. I wanted to create a peaceful, warm environment that reflects the natural, healthy results I strive for. It was important to have a clinical setting that felt welcoming and non-intimidating. Everything from the flow of the rooms to the natural light was carefully designed to put patients at ease.

What makes this clinic different from others?

We’ve built it from the ground up taking into account the patient journey. The layout, the aesthetics, the privacy—all considered. Patients can expect a truly personalised experience. It’s also fully equipped with the latest medical-grade technology, including my favourite laser, Aerolase.

As a leader in the field, how do you define success when it comes to patient outcomes?

For me, success is subtle yet significant. I love when patients say, “I feel like myself again.” It’s not about looking like someone else; it’s about feeling confident, refreshed, and aligned with your inner vitality.

Let’s talk about technology. Why did you choose Aerolase as a hero treatment in your clinic?

Aerolase stood out to me for its versatility, efficacy, and comfort. It’s an Nd:YAG laser that delivers energy in a super-short pulse, which means less heat and discomfort for patients. It’s safe across all skin tones, which is incredibly important in an inclusive practice. It’s also TGA listed for a range of indications, including acne and skin rejuvenation.

What skin concerns do you treat most often with Aerolase?

Acne, rosacea, pigmentation, and signs of ageing like fine lines and skin laxity. It’s also amazing for stimulating collagen and improving overall skin tone. The Aerolase Neo Elite treats over 30 skin conditions and can be used all year round with minimal downtime, making it incredibly practical for busy patients.

How does Aerolase differ from other lasers you’ve worked with in the past?

Most lasers either cause too much discomfort or require significant downtime. Aerolase is different—it uses a 650-microsecond pulse duration that bypasses the epidermis and delivers energy to the dermis quickly. This reduces heat and increases comfort for the client. It’s truly next-gen technology that’s both effective and elegant.

Do you have a favourite treatment protocol that includes Aerolase?

Yes! I love pairing Aerolase with medical-grade skincare and collagenstimulating treatments like microneedling. For acne, I often combine it with a topical routine tailored to the patient’s needs. The results are cumulative, and the skin just keeps getting better with time.

Can you share a patient story or transformation that was particularly meaningful for you involving Aerolase?

A teenage patient came in with cystic acne and very low self-esteem. Within a few sessions, we saw a remarkable reduction in inflammation. The real win? Watching their confidence grow. It reminded me how powerful skin health can be in shaping our self-perception.

With technology like Aerolase making such waves, how do you stay ahead of industry trends while staying grounded?

I attend global conferences, invest in continued education, and test every device myself before offering it. But most importantly, I listen to my patients. If something isn’t right for them, no trend or technology can justify its use.

What do you think the future holds for non-invasive skin health treatments?

We’re moving towards prevention, not correction. In this digital age, patients are more informed and are seeking treatments that support long-term skin health and natural looking results. Non-invasive options like lasers, regenerative treatments, and intelligent skincare will continue to grow in demand.

What does ethical aesthetics mean to you in a practical sense? It means putting patient welfare before profit. It’s about honest consultations, setting realistic expectations, and saying no when something isn’t in a patient’s best interest. It also means continual education to ensure best practice.

What advice would you give to new doctors entering the aesthetic world?

Start slow. Learn the foundations. Don’t chase trends—master the basics first. And always, always remember, less is more. Your reputation is built on trust and results, not volume.

If you had to choose a quote or mantra that sums up your approach to work and life, what would it be?

“Do no harm and do what you love.” That’s my guiding principle in everything I do.

Finally, what keeps you inspired in your practice?

My patients. Every story, every transformation, keeps me motivated. I also love being part of an industry that merges science and beauty. It’s dynamic, challenging, and deeply fulfilling.

From her early days in general practice to the sleek hallways of her new Bondi clinic, Dr. Cosima Karlburger has remained a steadfast believer in subtle, powerful transformation. With Aerolase in her hands and a laser-focused (pun intended) approach to ethical skin health, her latest chapter is sure to be her most inspiring yet.

@drcosimamedispa