Today we’d like to introduce you to Sarah Garces.
Hi Sarah, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I’m a proud San Diego native—I grew up in Eastlake and graduated from Eastlake High School (go Titans!). For as long as I can remember, I knew I wanted to be a nurse. After high school, I was one of seven recipients in the nation to receive a full-ride Navy ROTC nursing scholarship. I left San Diego to attend Loyola University Chicago, inspired by my mom, who was also a Navy nurse and a Loyola alum.
After four years of nursing school and Navy training, I commissioned as a Navy Nurse Corps Officer, specializing in pediatric oncology. I come from a proud legacy of military service, and it was incredibly meaningful to care for service members and their families.
Serving during the COVID-19 pandemic was one of the most challenging times in healthcare. While on active duty, I also pursued my master’s degree to become a nurse practitioner. As a Lieutenant I transitioned from the bedside to a Department Head of two clinics—a leadership and management experience that would eventually serve me well in ways I didn’t yet realize.
After six years of service, I transitioned into civilian life and began working as a nurse practitioner in dermatology, where I gained experience in medical, surgical, and cosmetic treatments. That’s where I discovered my true passion for aesthetics and skin health. I dove headfirst into the field—investing in advanced training and continuous education to truly master my craft.
After my Naval service took me to different parts of the country, I was ready and excited to come back home to San Diego. This past year, I decided to bet on myself and pursue a long-held dream. I set out to build something of my own—something that blends my love for medicine, aesthetics, and art. That vision became Muse Aesthetics, a boutique aesthetic practice nestled in the heart of Del Mar. It’s been the greatest joy to serve my community and help my patients feel like the most confident, radiant version of themselves.
My tagline, “Be your own muse,” is rooted in both my background in art and my philosophy in aesthetics. When I studied art in Rome, we were encouraged to seek inspiration—to find a muse. By definition, a muse is a source of inspiration, especially in artistic expression. But over time, I realized: the most powerful muse isn’t someone else—it’s you. To be your own muse means to be your own inspiration. It’s about embracing yourself as a work of art—unique, evolving, and worthy. Your life is your masterpiece. You don’t need to become someone else—you simply need to feel like the best version of you. I even have the word “muse” tattooed on my hand as a daily reminder to live with intention, create with heart, and return to yourself as your greatest source of inspiration.
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?
There have certainly been challenges along the way which was to be expected. One of the biggest challenges was finding the right space. I knew I wanted to be near the ocean—it’s always been a source of calm and inspiration for me. Something I’ve done for years is create vision boards—they serve as a kind of lighthouse, keeping me focused on my vision and rooted in my “why.” On my most recent board, the intention was clear: I wanted a boutique aesthetic practice to live by the sea, and I wanted my patients to feel instantly at ease the moment they walked in—welcomed, centered, and inspired.
When I finally found my dream space in Del Mar, I was so happy. During the renovation process there was some contractor delays and shifting timelines but it all worked out in the end. As an entrepreneur, you’re not just a business owner—you’re a visionary. I poured myself into every detail, working tirelessly to make sure the space reflected who I am and how I want people to feel when they walk through the door. From my personal artwork to the lighting design—even down to the scent—I hand picked every element with intention. Eventually, it all paid off. I was able to bring that vision to life: a space by the ocean that feels calm, welcoming, and surrounded by art.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
Muse Aesthetics is a boutique aesthetic practice that focuses on subtle, natural and effortless injectable results. My specialty lies in facial balancing and non-surgical nose jobs (liquid rhinoplasty)—treatments that require a deep understanding of anatomy, proportion, and artistry.
What sets me apart is my training and background. I’ve had the privilege of learning from some of the top injectors in the industry and constantly invest in continuing education to ensure I am bringing the safest, most advanced technique’s. Before aesthetics, I spent years at the bedside as a pediatric nurse, which honed my precision, gentleness, and attention to detail—skills that directly translate into my injection technique today.
But what truly sets Muse apart is the philosophy behind it. As both a nurse practitioner and an artist, I approach every face with intention. I have a strong grasp of facial harmony, light and shadow, and the small nuances that make a result look elevated, not obvious or overdone. Muse was created to be the opposite of a cookie-cutter approach. Every treatment plan is completely customized—because every face is unique, and every approach should be, too. It’s a space where people feel heard, seen, and supported in their aesthetic journey—not just for a single procedure, but for years to come.
In terms of your work and the industry, what are some of the changes you are expecting to see over the next five to ten years?
Over the next 5–10 years, I see the aesthetics industry continuing to shift toward natural results and regenerative medicine—both of which I deeply believe in and continue to lean into at my practice. Patients are moving away from the overly done look and instead seeking subtle, undetectable enhancements. I specialize in exactly that—injectables that help you look more refreshed, lifted, and youthful, without anyone being able to pinpoint what was done. It’s about enhancing, not altering.
There’s also a growing interest in regenerative medicine, which focuses on stimulating the body’s own healing and collagen production. Treatments like PRF (platelet-rich fibrin), PRF Gel, and Sculptra are becoming more popular because they offer natural, long-lasting results—and I’m proud to offer both at Muse Aesthetics.
The future of aesthetics is less about chasing trends and more about longevity, prevention, and personalized care. And I’m excited to be a part of that shift.
Pricing:
- Consultations welcomed.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.themuseaesthetics.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/themuseaesthetics
