1. What inspired you to become a plastic and reconstructive surgeon, and how has your journey shaped your approach to patient care?
My journey toward becoming a plastic and reconstructive surgeon was inspired by a profound desire to help people feel better about themselves, no matter their circumstances. During medical school, I was captivated by the diverse capabilities and the broad impact that plastic surgery can have. From correcting congenital anomalies like cleft lips to reconstructing areas affected by trauma, cancer, or performing aesthetic enhancements, the field offers a unique blend of technical challenge and artistic creativity.
2. Your philosophy revolves around the idea of "Be your OWN kind of beautiful." Could you elaborate on how you integrate this concept into your practice?
I’m deeply committed to my philosophy of “Be your own kind of beautiful.” This guiding principle shapes every aspect of my practice, emphasizing the unique beauty of each individual. My primary goal is to help people embrace and enhance their natural beauty according to their own standards, not someone else’s. In my practice, personalization is key. I work closely with each patient to understand their specific desires and goals. This approach ensures that every procedure is tailored not just to enhance physical appearance but to align with the patient's self-perception and confidence. Whether it’s a subtle change or a more significant transformation, I strive to achieve results that look natural and feel authentic to the person.
3. Medical mission trips are a cornerstone of your dedication to humanitarian work. Could you delve into how these trips have shaped your professional expertise and personal evolution, including the types of surgical procedures you commonly perform during these missions?
Medical mission trips are indeed a cornerstone of my dedication to my humanitarian work, and they have profoundly influenced both my professional expertise and personal growth. On these missions, the focus is predominantly on reconstructive surgeries rather than the cosmetic procedures commonly associated with plastic surgery in the USA, such as breast augmentations or body sculpting. Instead, I primarily perform surgeries like cleft lip, cleft palate, burn scar revision, toes and finger malformation, nose and facial reconstruction, and much more. These procedures can significantly improve quality of life by enhancing basic functions and social integration for patients. These experiences have enriched my understanding of the human body's complexity and resilience. Every mission trip presents unique challenges due to varying resource availability and differing medical conditions in the populations I serve. Adapting to these conditions has honed my skills, making me more resourceful and innovative in my surgical techniques. Personally, these missions have been deeply transformative. They have reinforced the profound impact that skilled surgical intervention can have on a person's life.
4. Can you discuss any innovative techniques or technologies you employ in your surgical procedures to ensure the best outcomes for your patients?
In my practice, I strongly emphasize the integration of cutting-edge technologies and innovative techniques to ensure the best outcomes for my patients. I have invested in over 20 advanced devices that cater to a wide range of needs, from head to toe, encompassing both surgical and non-surgical treatments. My dedication to adopting new technologies is driven by my goal to use the newest and safest options available. For example, I use skin-tightening devices like Renuvion, which I use in all of my liposuction surgeries. Renuvion is particularly effective because it combines radiofrequency energy with helium plasma to precisely target and tighten the skin. This addition significantly enhances the results of liposuction by not only reducing fat but also improving skin laxity, giving a smoother, more contoured appearance. This approach reflects my commitment to achieving the best aesthetic and functional results for my patients, leveraging technology to enhance natural beauty safely and effectively.
5. What advice would you offer to individuals considering plastic surgery for the first time?
For individuals considering plastic surgery for the first time, my advice centers on the importance of thorough research and informed decision-making. It’s crucial to ensure that your surgeon is board-certified in plastic surgery. This certification is a testament to their rigorous training and adherence to high standards of care, safety, and ethics. Start by exploring the surgeon's portfolio of before and after photos, which can provide a realistic expectation of the results they can achieve and their skill level. Additionally, prepare a list of questions to ask during your consultation. This should include inquiries about their experience with the specific procedure you’re interested in, the techniques they use, what the recovery process will entail, potential risks, and how they handle complications.
Lastly, ensure that you feel comfortable and confident with the surgeon you choose. The relationship between a plastic surgeon and patient is built on trust, and feeling assured in your surgeon's capabilities and approach can significantly impact your satisfaction with the results and your overall experience.
6. In your experience, how do you manage patients' expectations and ensure they have realistic goals for their desired outcomes?
In my practice, managing patients' expectations involves clear and honest communication from the start. During consultations, I discuss their goals and provide a realistic assessment of what can be achieved through plastic surgery. I use before and after photos of similar cases to illustrate potential outcomes and ensure patients understand the limitations and possibilities of their desired procedures. This transparent approach helps patients set achievable expectations and contributes to their overall satisfaction with their surgical results.