The Oculofacial Podcast

Produced by Dr. Lilangi Ediriwickrema Moderator: Dr. Nicole Langelier

Expert Panel Members: - Dr. Bobby Korn: Incorporating ChatBots into Your Oculofacial Practice - Dr. Pete Setabutr: Virtual Reality and Surgical Planning - Dr. Elizabeth Bradley: Facial Reanimation and Face Transplantation

Episode Summary: Join host Dr. Nicole Langelier in an enlightening episode of the Oculofacial podcast, where leading experts delve into the transformative technologies reshaping oculoplastic surgery. Dr. Bobby Korn introduces the compelling world of large language models and chatbots, illustrating their seamless integration into clinical practice and administration. Dr. Pete Setabutr follows with a discussion on the current and potential applications of virtual and augmented reality in surgical planning and education, painting a futuristic view of surgical training and execution. Dr. Elizabeth Bradley wraps up the podcast by sharing groundbreaking advancements in facial reanimation and face transplantation, highlighting a multidisciplinary collaboration at Mayo Clinic. . Key Takeaways: - AI Integration in Clinical Practice: Dr. Bobby Korn highlights the significant role of AI and chatbots in assisting with  administrative duties and clinical care.   - Virtual Reality for Surgical Training: Dr. Pete Setabutr discusses the implementation of VR and AR technologies in enhancing anatomical understanding and surgical precision, with an emphasis on ophthalmology training and education. - Facial Reanimation Innovations: Dr. Elizabeth Bradley shares advanced techniques such as using palmate longus tendon to support paralytic lower eyelid retraction and platysma muscle grafts with cross face nerve grafts for managing upper eyelid paralytic lagophthalmos. .Dr - Bradley also shares the role of technology and extensive collaboration among various specialties at Mayo Clinic in handling complex facial transplant cases. - Future of Oculoplastic Surgery: The speakers collectively forecast significant advancements in personalized AI-assisted surgery, comprehensive virtual reality applications, and envisioning a tech-driven transformation in patient care and surgical education.

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

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

In the first of the TOP Surgical Battle Series, Dr. Natalie Homer (Stanford) moderates a debate between the frontalis sling (Dr. John Ng, OHSU) and frontalis muscle flap (Dr. Richard Allen, TOC Eye and Face) techniques for correction of myogenic ptosis.

In this episode, Dr. John Ng advocates for the frontalis sling procedure, emphasizing its straightforward nature, time-tested effectiveness, and adaptability. Dr. Ng discusses the various materials used, including silicone and fascia lata, and the procedure’s suitability for teaching and clinical practice. He addresses the potential for infection, material failure, and the cosmetic aspects of the procedure.

Dr. Richard Allen alternatively defends the frontalis muscle flap procedure, making a compelling case for its efficiency and durability. He details his comprehensive technique, incorporating elements such as levator resection. He shares his experience on patient outcomes, complications, and long-term results with this procedure. 

Key Takeaways:

• The frontalis sling procedure is known for its straightforward approach and adaptability, particularly useful in teaching environments and varying patient anatomies.
• A variety of materials can be used in the frontalis sling procedure, including silicone and fascia lata. Each material has its pros and cons, such as durability and infection risks.
• The frontalis muscle flap procedure can avoid the use of foreign materials, offering a potentially longer-lasting solution. The technique includes levator resection for optimal eyelid contour and function.
• Post-operative care and complication management, including lagophthalmos and dry eye, are critical regardless of the technique used.
• Both procedures have unique indications and may be chosen based on individual patient needs, anatomical considerations, and potential for future adjustments.

Notable Quotes:

1. “The advantage of the [frontalis] sling is…for teaching at a teaching institute. The anatomy and the procedure is a lot easier to teach and has a...shallower learning curve.” - Dr. John Ng
2. “The beauty of a frontalis flap procedure is that you’re making a single incision across the eyelid, at the eyelid crease.” - Dr. Richard Allen
3. “I think that if you don’t do it,…they’re gonna find someone that does.”- Dr. Richard Allen
4. “It’s…representation of how the materials and techniques have evolved over time, balancing traditional methods with newer innovative practices.” (Regarding the frontalis muscle flap procedure) - Dr. John Ng

Join Dr. Kian Eftekhari in this insightful episode of the Oculofacial Podcast where he explores the field of oculoplastic surgery as a career option for ophthalmology residents. Dr. Eftekhari, based in Salt Lake City, Utah, is accompanied by two esteemed colleagues, Dr. Cat Burkat (current ASOPRS Fellowship Education Director and AUPO Oculofacial Plastic Surgery Manager) and Dr. Seanna Grob (Young ASOPRS Chair). Given their unique roles and perspectives, together they delve into the diverse and expanding scope of oculoplastic surgery, its unique blend of artistic and medical practices, and the personal journeys that led them to pursue this fascinating specialty.

The discussion opens with Dr. Burkat describing the breadth of oculoplastic surgery, highlighting procedures from lacrimal system surgery, pediatric oculoplastics, droopy eyelids, thyroid eye disease, to orbital tumors and aesthetic enhancements. Dr. Grob adds that the field allows practitioners to evolve their interests and specialize as their careers progress. Both emphasize the importance of mentorship and connections within the oculoplastic community, which plays a crucial role in fostering interest and skill development in the field. These relationships can help provide collaborations that can be beneficial for fellowship applications, as well as for long-term career aspirations. Dr. Burkat also emphasizes that the ASOPRS-approved Oculofacial Plastic fellowships have a long-standing reputation of excellent training and are carefully selected to provide the best fellowship education for patient care. The episode transitions into the specifics of academic oculoplastic surgery, discussing the dynamic nature of clinic and OR schedules, the collaboration with other specialties, and the rich opportunities for teaching and research.

Key Takeaways:

• The Scope of Oculoplastic Surgery: Oculoplastic surgery encompasses lacrimal system surgery, orbital tumors, trauma, eyelid surgeries, pediatric conditions, aesthetics, and more, offering a wide variety of challenges and opportunities.
• Mentorship and Connection: Building relationships with mentors in the field is crucial for personal and professional growth, creating a supportive environment for learning and innovation.
• Life as an Academic Oculoplastic Surgeon: This career path includes a mix of clinical work, surgery, research, and teaching, allowing for a diverse and exciting professional experience.
• Differentiating Fellowships: ASOPRS-approved fellowships are comprehensive and rigorous, spanning two years to ensure high-level training and expertise in the field. An ASOPRS-approved fellowship is respected and recognized by other specialties, and is often highly desirable for career and leadership advancement.
• Flexibility and Career Phases: The field allows for career evolution, enabling surgeons to shift between academic and private practice and adjust their focus as their careers develop.

Notable Quotes:

1. “We see some patients for a specific surgery that we take care of, and they are happy and move on. But we also have patients that we follow over many years and have a longer relationship with, which is like the best of both worlds.” - Dr. Cat Burkat
2. “In terms of academics, I really like the variety of things that I do during the day, and I don’t think that’s just unique to academics.” - Dr. Seanna Grob
3. “Our field is really just bursting through the seams in recent years. And I do agree [our members] are the best of the best.” - Dr. Cat Burkat
4. “Dealing with such a unique part of the body, like the eyes, they’re a beautiful part of our anatomy.” - Dr. Seanna Grob
5. “It’s important to be in a place where you feel comfortable, where you can take what that person’s teaching you and really make it in your own practice.” - Dr. Kian Eftekhari

Resources:

• American Society of Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (ASOPRS): https://www.asoprs.org
• University of Wisconsin Madison - Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences: https://www.ophth.wisc.edu/
• UC Irvine - Gavin Herbert Eye Institute: https://www.eye.uci.edu/
• 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

This highly engaging episode will give you a comprehensive look at the journey of ASOPRS and the luminaries whose contributions continue to shape the future of this field. 

About the Guests:

• Dr. David B. Samimi, MD: An esteemed oculoplastic surgeon based in Los Angeles, Dr. Samimi is driven by his passion for the history and future of oculoplastic surgery. He has trained under many prominent figures in the field and brings a wealth of experience and insightful storytelling to the discussion.

• Dr. Steven C. Dresner, MD: A pioneer in orbital implants and aesthetic surgery, Dr. Dresner is a leading figure in oculoplastic surgery, teaching at USC and known for his captivating stories and deep knowledge of the field’s history. Sadly, Dr Dresner passed away 2 weeks after this recording. We are fortunate to have his animated story telling captured here. 

• Dr. Jill A. Foster, MD: Operating out of Ohio, Dr. Foster is renowned for her expertise in both functional and aesthetic surgery. She trained with Bill Katowitz and works at the Ophthalmic Surgery Consultants of Ohio.

• Dr. Michael Hawes, MD: Based in Colorado, Dr. Hawes is celebrated for his innovations in eyelid reconstructive surgeries. He recently retired after a distinguished career, having worked with numerous people and served as a key figure in the field’s development.

• Dr. David M. Reifler, MD: An authority on the history of oculoplastic surgery, Dr. Reifler has documented the evolution of this field via his books. He trained in Manhattan and now enjoys retirement across Austin and Michigan.

Host Dr. David B. Samimi engages with prominent oculoplastic surgeons Drs. Steven C. Dresner, Jill A. Foster, Michael Hawes, and David M. Reifler. They delve into the fascinating history of oculoplastic surgery and its evolution, highlighting the contributions of the founding figures, the development of fellowship training, and the transformative events that have shaped the field today.

Listeners will gain insight into the establishment of the American Society of Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (ASOPRS) and how its meetings foster collaboration and progress in this specialized area. The discussion covers both the noble beginnings from war and trauma care and the more personal anecdotes from early days, offering a captivating mix of technical evolution and personal stories within the profession.

Key Takeaways:

• Historical Origins: The roots of oculoplastic surgery tie back to trauma and war, with foundational figures such as Wendell Hughes and Byron Smith pushing the field forward.

• Fellowship Training: Evolution from informal observerships to structured fellowship programs marked significant progress in the specialized training of oculoplastic surgeons.

• Influential Figures: Notable mentors like Dr. Henry Baylis and Dr. Richard Dortzbach significantly contributed to oculoplastic surgery’s growth and modern practices.

• Gender Pioneers: Early female surgeons like Dr. Virginia Lubkin and Dr. Bernice Brown played crucial roles in breaking barriers within the specialty.

• Evolving Practices: The panel discusses the importance of maintaining excellence and mentorship while acknowledging shifts in practice dynamics towards aesthetics and broader surgical capabilities.

Resources:

• Dr. David B. Samimi’s Profile on ASOPRS: asoprs.org

• Dr. David M. Reifler’s Books: “ASOPRS: The First 25 Years” and “ASOPRS: The Next 50 Years” available on the ASOPRS website.

• Jeremiah Tao’s Chapter on Mentorship with the ASOPRS Family Tree: Available in the ASOPRS 50th Anniversary book on asoprs.org

About the Guest(s):

Dr. Richard Dortzbach: A pioneering figure in oculofacial surgery, Dr. Richard Dortzbach, affectionately known as “Dortz,” was the first fellowship-trained oculoplastic surgeon at the University of Wisconsin - Madison. Over his illustrious career, he trained 19 fellows and significantly influenced the field through his contributions to both clinical practice and education. Notably, Dr. Dortzbach held the Pa Noh professorship at UW-Madison and served in numerous leadership roles within the American Society of Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (ASOPRS), including President in 1995.

Dr. Mark Lucarelli: Dr. Mark Lucarelli is an esteemed colleague of Dr. Dortzbach and his final fellow. He has continued the tradition of excellence in oculofacial surgery as a distinguished member of the UW-Madison faculty. Dr. Lucarelli is highly respected for his contributions to both patient care and the education of future oculoplastic surgeons. He has been an ASOPRS fellowship program director since 2005 and served as President in 2020.

Dr. Suzanne van Landingham: Dr. Suzanne van Landingham is an assistant professor of oculofacial surgery at UW-Madison and a former fellow of Dr. Lucarelli. She plays a vital role in ongoing educational efforts and upholding the high standards set by her predecessors.

Episode Summary:

In this insightful episode of TOP (The Oculofacial Plastic Surgery podcast), Dr. Mark Lucarelli and Dr. Suzanne van Landingham sit down with Dr. Richard Dortzbach, a towering figure in oculofacial surgery. They delve into Dr. Dortzbach’s impactful career, exploring his journey as the first fellowship-trained oculoplastic surgeon at the University of Wisconsin - Madison and his extraordinary dedication to teaching and patient care.

From pioneering procedures dating back to the times of Hammurabi to the modern-day complexities of oculoplastic surgery, Dr. Dortzbach discusses the evolution of the specialty. The conversation highlights key milestones such as the establishment and growth of ASOPRS and the invaluable legacy left through his fellowship program. The episode offers a wealth of insights into educational excellence, mentorship, and the profound impact of Dr. Dortzbach’s work on numerous generations of surgeons.

Key Takeaways:

• Evolution of Oculoplastic Surgery: Dr. Dortzbach shares compelling anecdotes about the specialty’s origins,

•  including significant contributions from early pioneers and the formalization of ASOPRS.

• The Importance of Fellowship and Mentorship: Emphasizing continuous learning and teaching, Dr. Dortzbach underlines the value of fellowship training and how it has shaped the landscape of oculofacial surgery.

• Scientific Contributions and Publications: Dortz discusses his most impactful research and educational materials, including his seminal textbook and the prestigious White Coat Society.

• Lessons and Aphorisms: Dr. Dortzbach’s pearls of wisdom, such as the necessity of patient-centered care and his distinctive mottos that continue to influence his trainees.

• Balancing Professional and Personal Life: Insights into maintaining a work-life balance and the importance of family and personal milestones in a demanding medical career.

Notable Quotes:

1. Dr. Richard Dortzbach: “The most important thing is to always focus on the patient.”

2. Dr. Mark Lucarelli: “Dortz, you really established the concept of “fellowship family”.”

3. Dr. Richard Dortzbach: “Commitment only, no lip service.”

4. Dr. Suzanne van Landingham: “You’ve also done a lot to foster community in your fellowship graduates.”

5. Dr. Richard Dortzbach: “Education in all aspects is really the key for trainees.”

Resources:

• ASOPRS Website

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

In this insightful episode of The Oculofacial Podcast, Dr. Christy Nelson sits down with Dr. Sara Wester and Dr. Parag Gandhi to discuss the exciting and rewarding world of global outreach in oculoplastic surgery. This episode delves into personal narratives from their international experiences, the impact of their work, and the comprehensive efforts led by the ASOPRS Global Opportunities Committee in making oculoplastic care accessible worldwide.

Listeners will discover how Dr. Wester and Dr. Gandhi first got involved in global health initiatives and the profound personal and professional impacts of these experiences. From overcoming logistical challenges to the joy of teaching and learning in diverse cultural settings, the episode is packed with rich, first-hand insights and practical advice. They also discuss current projects, partnerships like the Honduras fellowship with  ACE Global, and provide actionable tips for those interested in starting their own global outreach work.

Key Takeaways:

• Getting Started in Global Outreach: Dr. Wester and Dr. Gandhi stress the  benefits of starting on a smaller manageable scale and leveraging existing connections and organizations for initial trips.
• Impact of International Work: Personal stories highlight how global outreach can be both humbling and empowering, offering unique opportunities to learn and teach.
• Specific Challenges: Overcoming hurdles such as varying medical equipment availability, cultural differences, and adapting to different surgical environments.
• Sustainable Programs: Both doctors emphasize the importance of education and creating sustainable programs that continue to benefit communities long-term.
• Global Opportunities Committee: The committee’s efforts in providing resources, networking opportunities, and structured programs for ASOPRS members interested in international outreach.

Notable Quotes:

• “I’ve always kind of loved feeling a little bit out of my comfort zone and these opportunities push me in unique ways.” - Dr. Sara Wester
• “Outreach doesn’t always have to be overseas. One can work locally with nonprofits like Lions International to develop programs for the underserved in state.” - Dr. Parag Gandhi
• “ I’ve also seen gratitude in these experiences that is truly unique” - Dr. Sara Wester
• “One should note there are many reasons to get interested in international work. It’s really kind of a very individual driver.” - Dr. Parag Gandhi
• “You have to adapt to different surgical environments, different equipment, and different team structures.” - Dr. Sara Wester

Resources:

• Virtue Foundation: Website
• Orbis International: Website
• Seva Foundation: Website
• Ace Global: Website

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

Podcast Guests:

Dr. Evan Kalin-Hajdu - Assistant Professor of Ophthalmology at the University of Montreal. Dr. Kalin-Hajdu is the host of the current "Oculofacial Podcast Journal Club".

Dr. Bryan J. Winn - Professor of Ophthalmology and Vice Chair and Division Director for Oculofacial Plastic Surgery at UCSF. He also serves as the Chief of Ophthalmology at the San Francisco VA Healthcare System.

Dr. Davin Ashraf - Assistant Professor of Ophthalmology at Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU).

Dr. Kyle J. Godfrey - Assistant Professor of Ophthalmology at Weill Cornell Medicine and the New York Presbyterian Hospital. He is also the Director of the Ophthalmology Residency Program and a member of the Departments of Ophthalmology and Neurological Surgery.

Episode Summary:

Dr. Evan Kalin-Hajdu is joined by Dr. Bryan J. Winn, Dr. Davin Ashraf, and Dr. Kyle J. Godfrey to discuss three key articles from the May-June 2024 issue of the Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (OPRS) journal. Their discussions center on short-term versus long-term results of teprotumumab, a more tailored approach to the management of thyroid eye disease, and the nuances of increasingly popular transorbital surgery.

Dr. Winn begins by summarizing an article on teprotumumab for recalcitrant thyroid eye disease. The panelists then discuss the strengths and weaknesses of the paper, highlighting the medication’s short-term effectiveness but raising concerns about its long-term durability. Dr. Ashraf then provides insights into a study that compared teprotumumab versus orbital decompression for thyroid eye disease, highlighting the likely additive effects of these combined treatments, but also raising compelling points about regression of proptosis that was only observed in the teprotumumab group. Dr. Godfrey then wraps up with an in-depth look at a novel transorbital endoscopic approach to the foramen rotundum for infraorbital nerve stripping, emphasizing the technique's potential utility, risks, and anatomical considerations.

Key Takeaways:

• Teprotumumab demonstrates significant short-term (3 weeks post treatment) efficacy in reducing proptosis and clinical activity scores in recalcitrant thyroid eye disease. However, data on long-term durability in this cohort remains unknown.
• Combining teprotumumab with orbital decompression may provide additive benefits for proptosis reduction. Surgical decompression provides the greatest proptosis reduction and does not appear to regress in time. However, patients treated solely with teprotumumab appear to regress within months of therapy.
• The participants discuss a more evidence-based approach to the management of thyroid eye disease, shifting away from the “one size fits all” model. The approach involves an effective short-term disease modulator, such as teprotumumab, followed by a more effective long-term disease modifier, such as tocilizumab or radiation therapy.
• Introducing a transorbital endoscopic approach for infraorbital nerve stripping could expand the surgical arsenal for managing complex orbital and perineural pathologies.

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(s):

• Dr. Sandy Zhang-Nunes: Sandy is a seasoned Oculoplastic Surgeon with approximately ten years of experience at USC. She has published papers on the use of light therapies to treat dry eyes and contributes significantly to the field with her knowledge of aesthetics and laser technologies.
• Dr. Laura Periman: Based in Seattle, Dr. Periman runs a private practice where she specializes in cornea and external disease. Known as the "Dry Eye Master," she leverages her Instagram platform to share extensive knowledge on treating dry eyes with advanced light devices.
• Dr. James Chelnis:  Practicing in Manhattan Eye and face and serving as volunteer faculty at Mount Sinai, Dr. Chelnis has spoken on laser technology at prestigious ophthalmology courses. He brings a wealth of experience in private practice to the discussion.
• Dr. Anaïs Carniciu: With valuable practical knowledge in both intense pulse light and broadband light, Dr. Carniciu draws from her background in private practice in Westchester to contribute to the conversation on light therapies for ocular conditions.

Episode Summary:

In this enlightening episode of The Oculofacial Podcast, host Dr. Julie Woodward leads an insightful discussion with four esteemed experts on the innovative use of light therapies for treating dry eye conditions. The talk covers intricate details and theories behind technologies such as intense pulse light (IPL) and broadband light (BBL), unveiling the impact on ocular health.

Diving into the subject matter, Dr. Sandy Zhang-Nunes shares her transitional journey from facial aesthetics to the world of dry eye treatment, highlighting how light therapies have evolved to offer relief to patients. This is paralleled by Dr. Laura Periman's own experiences, who has noticed incidental improvements in dry eyes from aesthetic treatments. Dr. James Chelnis brings a perspective on treating diverse conditions such as thyroid eye disease with light therapies and contemplates the future of these treatments. Lastly, Dr. Anaïs Carniciu discusses the importance of targeting the underlying problems of dry eye with meticulous treatments around the eyelids.

Key Takeaways:

• IPL and BBL are effective light-based treatments for managing dry eye symptoms and meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD).
• There are varying approaches and protocols for treating the eyelid margins, with some experts opting for direct treatment and others focusing on adjacent areas.
• The discussion includes acknowledgment of associated conditions such as blepharospasm and the potential systemic benefits of light therapy in dry eye patients.
• Debates on the use of corneal shields during treatments highlight differing opinions on safety and patient comfort.
• Insurance coverage for light-based dry eye treatments remains a largely out-of-pocket expense for patients, reflecting the ongoing challenge of integrating new modalities into established healthcare systems.

About the Guest(s):

• Dr. Cat Burkat: Acclaimed Oculofacial Plastic Surgeon and host of the podcast, Dr. Cat Burkat serves as Professor at the University of Wisconsin Madison. With a thriving academic and clinical practice, Dr. Burkat is widely recognized for her expertise in the field of oculofacial plastics and has been instrumental in various educational and research initiatives.
• Dr. Evan Black: Esteemed Professor of Ophthalmology at Wayne State University and Oakland University, and in private practice in the Detroit Metro Area, Dr. Evan Black is recognized for his authoritative knowledge and pioneering contributions in oculofacial surgery. His academic endeavors and clinical practice have significantly influenced the discipline.
• Dr. Ken Morgenstern: With dual roles as a private practitioner and an associate professor at Thomas Jefferson University in Philadelphia, Dr. Ken Morgenstern brings vast experience and nuanced insights into facial reconstructive and cosmetic surgery as he also serves as President of the American Society of Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery.
• Dr. Kristin Tarbet: Based in Seattle, Dr. Kristin Tarbet blends private practice with her role as a clinical professor at the University of Washington. Her personalized approaches to facial aesthetics and rejuvenation have made her a respected figure in the field.
• Dr. David Samimi: Engaged in private practice and serving as an associate professor at USC, Dr. David Samimi's clinical acumen and educational contributions have enriched both his patients' lives and the professional community's knowledge.

Episode Summary:

In this enlightening episode of "T.O.P. - The Oculofacial Podcast," Dr. Cat Burkat shines the spotlight on the intricate world of forehead and brow lifting surgery. The conversation revolves around the diverse methodologies and personal experiences of acclaimed surgeons who navigate the vast terrain of forehead rejuvenation.

Leading experts in oculofacial plastics convene to share their seasoned perspectives and preferred techniques that define the art and science of elevating the forehead and brow aesthetics. They dissect critical considerations, such as the impact of forehead height and hairline on surgical approaches and weigh in on nuanced choices that influence both the functional and cosmetic outcomes of these procedures.

Key Takeaways:

• The height of the forehead and the patient's hairline are pivotal factors in determining the appropriate surgical approach for forehead and brow lifting.
• Approaches to forehead lifting must consider gender-specific nuances to achieve aesthetically pleasing results that align with the patient's facial structure.
• The breadth of techniques, from pretrichial approaches to endoscopic lifts, provides a versatile array of options tailored to individual patient needs and expectations.
• Surgeons have evolved from aggressive muscle alteration techniques to more conservative approaches, focusing on volume conservation and natural contours.
• Volumization, through fat grafting or fillers, plays a significant role in three-dimensional rejuvenation and is considered alongside lifting procedures for comprehensive outcomes.

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 Guests: - Dr. Morris Hartstein is an ophthalmologist and oculoplastic surgeon, and the founder of Operation Ethiopia, an NGO that provides eye care services in Ethiopia. He has been traveling to Ethiopia since 2014, helping build an extensive program in Gondar and Addis Ababa. - Dr. Seblewongel Eshetu is an oculoplastic surgeon from Ethiopia. She completed her fellowship in oculoplastics with Dr. Hartstein in Israel as part of Operation Ethiopia's Physician Training Program. Dr. Eshetu is currently working at St. Paul's Hospital in Addis Ababa, where she is the first female oculoplastic surgeon in the country.

Episode Summary:

Dr. Cat Burkat interviews Dr. Morris Hartstein who shares his journey of getting involved in global ophthalmology and oculoplastics in Ethiopia. He initially visited Ethiopia with his family on a volunteer trip and was inspired by the level of need and poverty he witnessed. Since then, he has been traveling to Ethiopia multiple times a year, providing eye care services, training residents and fellows, and organizing cataract surgery campaigns. Dr. Hartstein emphasizes the importance of building relationships, understanding the local culture, and going through proper government and medical channels to ensure the success and sustainability of global outreach programs.

At the conclusion of the episode, Dr. Cat Burkat interviews Dr. Seblewongel Eshetu, who shares her experience training in oculoplastics with Dr. Hartstein, which included training both in Israel and Ethiopia. She also describes the challenges she faces as an oculoplastic surgeon in Ethiopia and the importance of sharing surgical skills and knowledge between visiting surgical groups and local physicians. Dr. Eshetu emphasizes the need for advanced materials and instruments to treat patients in Ethiopia, where many cases present in advanced stages. She also highlights the impact of oculoplastic surgery on both patients and their families, as many travel from rural areas and face significant disruptions to their lives. Both Dr. Hartstein and Eshetu conclude by expressing their commitment to teaching and expanding oculoplastic surgery in Ethiopia.

Key Takeaways:

1. Global surgical trips should always respect local culture, traditions, and other providers.

2. Sustainable education and training are the ideal as this allows for local surgeons to continue optimal patient care.

3. Working in global oculoplastics must be properly approached with the government health department, local hospitals, NGOs to provide safe and effective outcomes.

4. Training in oculoplastics in Israel provided Dr. Eshetu with a different perspective and advanced surgical knowledge.

5. The transition back to Ethiopia was challenging due to differences in lighting, instruments, and materials.

6. Sharing surgical skills and knowledge with visiting surgical groups is crucial for advancing oculoplastic surgery in Ethiopia.

7. Access to advanced materials and instruments is essential for treating patients in Ethiopia and similar countries, where many cases present in advanced stages.

8. Oculofacial plastic surgery can have a significant impact on patients, who can then move forward in their daily lives and provide for their families.

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