I didn't know that. (professionally?)
I have mad respect for VFX artists (kind of an industry brethren thing as MFX and VFX artists tend to work in conjunction alot.) I was even swaying towards visual effects after working and learning with Tippett Studio back in the late 90's as job security of sorts, they kept me real busy for a while. (Actually '98-'00) While there, I was broken in on 3ds MAX, Photoshop and ZBrush.
I loved it but it just wasn't the same. I didn't get that Dr. Frankenstein syndrome feeling from it the way I did with Make-up Effects. I just like the hands on I guess, bringing more or less physical life to an idea. As you know there is so much more involved with MFX than just make-up.
It was very tough desicion to "retire" from something I have wanted to do since 3yo, and have been doing successfully for 12+ years.
I actually still do contract work maybe 3-5 times a year and still try to incorporate VFX into the conception....I LOVE ZBrush for this!
Incidentally, did you know that ILM is hiring almost across the board right now? FYI if not.