About the Guest(s):

Catherine Maley, MBA, is an accomplished author and a recognized consultant with over 25 years of experience working with plastic surgeons. Her expertise lies in patient attraction and conversion in the aesthetic practice niche. She is known for her book "Your Aesthetic Practice," where she provides strategic insights into efficiently running a clinic and maximizing patient satisfaction within the cosmetic surgery industry. With an MBA and entrepreneurial acumen, Catherine brings a unique perspective to the medical community, focusing on the intersection of healthcare and client experience.

Episode Summary:

In this episode of The Oculofacial Podcast, Dr. Kian Eftekhari and Dr. John Martin dive into the specifics of transitioning from functional to aesthetic surgery with special guest Catherine Maley, MBA. Catherine lends her extensive expertise to the conversation, providing critical strategies that empower surgeons to enhance their clinic management and customer interactions in the field of aesthetics.

Catherine shares invaluable insights into the nuanced approach required to cater to aesthetic patients as opposed to those seeking functional surgery. She emphasizes the importance of understanding patient expectations and customizing the patient experience in a practice. Her discussion includes practical tips on managing the operational aspects such as phone answering protocols, consultation structures, and staff-patient interaction, all crucial for driving a successful aesthetic practice.

Key Takeaways:

• Surgeons transitioning to aesthetics must adapt to a service-oriented patient experience, focusing on customer service and nurturing the patient journey.
• The customer experience is central to a successful aesthetic practice, from the first phone call to postoperative care.
• Having a dedicated aesthetic coordinator can significantly increase conversion rates by being the patient's advocate within the clinic.
• It's vital to distinguish and market the unique skill set of oculoplastic surgeons, particularly to patients who may not be aware of the specialized treatments these surgeons offer.
• Practices should gradually integrate cosmetic services for existing patients and invest in marketing and staff training to foster growth.

Notable Quotes:

• "Patients who like you don't sue you." - Catherine Maley
• "Your staff can really be such an asset to you." - Catherine Maley
• "There's only a few of you. So honestly, as long as you can just stay with it, be persistent, and adapt as the world changes, you're fine." - Catherine Maley
• "Patients who love you will absolutely be your sales ambassadors if you take care of them." - Catherine Maley

Resources:

Catherine Maley's website: CatherineMaley.com

Book: "Your Aesthetic Practice" by Catherine Maley

Catherine Maley's podcast "Beauty and the Biz”

If you're an ASOPRS Member, Surgeon or Trainee and are interesting in hosting a podcast episode, please submit your idea by visiting: asoprs.memberclicks.net/podcast

About the Guest:

Dr. Don Kikkawa is a respected figure in the field of ophthalmology, serving as a professor at the University of California, San Diego Shiley Eye Institute. As a former president of ASOPRS, he holds the prestigious Hollander Chair and boasts considerable expertise in the realm of thyroid eye disease treatments, contributing extensively to scholarly research.

Dr. Cesar A. Briceno is an accomplished advisory dean and associate professor of ophthalmology at the University of Pennsylvania Scheie Eye Institute. His professional journey has been marked by a keen focus on cutting-edge clinical trials and advancements in the autoimmune aspects of ocular disease.

Dr. Kira L. Segal is an oculofacial surgeon practicing at the EltraSelf Advanced Facial Aesthetics in Florham Park, New Jersey. Additionally, she extends her expertise as a voluntary faculty member at the Weill Cornell University School of Medicine. Dr. Segal’s contributions to the field, particularly in preoperative evaluation and surgical techniques, have earned her a reputable standing.

Episode Summary:

In this enriching episode of the Oculofacial Podcast Journal Club, host Lilangi Ediriwickrema, MD, as she moderates a discussion with experts Don Kikkawa, MD, Cesar A. Briceno, MD, and Kira L. Segal, MD, on three recent articles published in the field of oculofacial surgery. The panel reviews a study on proptosis regression after teprotumumab treatment, the current uses of amniotic membrane transplantation, and the association between obstructive sleep apnea and ptosis repair failure. They delve into the findings, limitations, and potential implications of each study, providing valuable insights for oculofacial surgeons and patients alike. Don't miss this engaging and informative episode of the Oculofacial Podcast Journal Club.

Key Takeaways:

• Teprotumumab treatment for thyroid eye disease shows varying rates of proptosis regression in patients, signaling the potential need for personalized retreatment strategies.
• Amniotic membrane transplantation offers diverse applications in oculoplastic surgery and holds promise in enhancing patient outcomes for various reconstructive procedures.
• The presence of obstructive sleep apnea in patients correlates with higher failure rates of ptosis repair, warranting a more cautious preoperative evaluation and emphasizing the complexity of ptosis surgery in such cases.
• Staging surgical interventions, especially in cases of tarsal instability and floppy eyelid syndrome, can improve outcomes and minimize potential complications.
• Medical compliance in managing sleep apnea plays a role in patient outcomes, although further study is needed to understand the full impact on oculofacial surgical procedures.

If you're an ASOPRS Member, Surgeon or Trainee and are interesting in hosting a podcast episode, please submit your idea by visiting: asoprs.memberclicks.net/podcast

About the Guest:

Dr. Kenneth Steinsapir is a renowned oculofacial plastic surgeon with a profound interest in the intricacies of eyelid anatomy and reconstructive surgery. Dr. Steinsapir's expertise particularly shines in the realm of revision procedures, stemming from a deep understanding of levator anatomy, which he believes is crucial yet often overlooked in oculoplastic specialty training. Beyond his clinical and scientific contributions, Dr. Steinsapir also has a fascination with mountaineering and photography, which speaks to his appreciation for aesthetics in both nature and his professional work.

Episode Summary:

In this enlightening episode of the oculofacial podcast , Dr. Brett Kotlus speaks with Dr. Kenneth Steinsapir who shares his profound knowledge and experience in dealing with the aesthetic and functional challenges that arise from upper eyelid surgeries. The conversation delves into the the complex issue of postoperative upper blepharoplasty syndrome.

The episode begins with Dr. Kotlus expressing admiration for Dr. Steinsapir's methodical approach to oculofacial issues, setting the stage for a deep dive into the common yet not universally recognized post upper blepharoplasty syndrome. Dr. Steinsapir paints a compelling picture of this condition, one marked by undesirable outcomes like high sulcus, hollow eyelids, ptosis, and compensatory brow elevation—issues that defy patient expectations and call for deft surgical revision strategies.

Through this detailed discourse, enrich your understanding of the anatomical nuances that define successful cosmetic upper eyelid surgeries. Explore the key principles of structuring blepharoplasty, uncovering the potential pitfalls that can lead to post-surgical dissatisfaction, and learn about the transformative techniques that can help patients regain both function and form in their eyelids.

Key Takeaways:

• Post upper blepharoplasty syndrome involves issues such as a high sulcus, hollow eyelids, and ptosis, often accompanied by a compensatory brow lift.
• Proper levator function and attachment are crucial for a successful eyelid surgery outcome, and its anatomy is often underemphasized.
• Dr. Steinsapir advocates for a more involved and thoughtful approach to upper blepharoplasty, including carefully planned crease placements.
• Patient satisfaction following blepharoplasty is dependent on both the aesthetic and functional aspects of the surgery.
• Physical examination and measurements are essential, yet sometimes neglected aspects of preoperative assessment for eyelid surgery.

If you're an ASOPRS Member, Surgeon or Trainee and are interesting in hosting a podcast episode, please submit your idea by visiting: asoprs.memberclicks.net/podcast