All of my patients seem to have the iphone or some other high tech device to not only make phone calls and text and surf the web, but to utilize apps. Apps, or applications as they are known, allow the device holder to do many things. Some are gps based, helping with directions. Some are games to pass the time. Others can recognize music, or help you find cheap gas. But what can apps do for my patients?
How about an app to check if your doctor is truly a board certified plastic surgeon? ASPS, the American Society of Plastic Surgeons should hop on this, so I might see fewer patients for second opinions who did not know the training of their doctors.
Another helpful app would be a FAQ app for after surgery, where my patients could search questions about nonemergent things after surgery, such as what to do for constipation or itching. Although they are all included in the post operative instruction sheets I provide, we still get calls.
Another great app would be the supportive friend app, which would offer words of encouragement and positivity during the swollen and bruised times. So often, a jealous spouse or coworker will say mean things to a vulnerable patient during healing. This delays the healing process, and can undermine gains made in improving self esteem.
Please let me know if you have seen any apps helpful for my patients, or suggest some for me to create. Just smart phone us.
30,000 Appointments
As I was seeing patients this past Saturday, I noticed the first patient with a medical record number over 30,000. This was amazing to me. As I finish my 15th year in private practice at Yager Esthetics, this means that on average, over 2000 different people a year wanted to see me. That is about forty new potential patients every week.
When I opened Yager Plastic Surgery in 1997, I certainly was not seeing that many patients. I was somewhat naïve to think that I could just hang up a sign, and magically people would find me. I knew nothing about marketing, budgeting, hiring and firing or advertising. I just wanted to see patients and help the Hispanic community.
Each year, the word got out more and more. I advertised in a local paper, then made a website. Eventually, the news media sought me out for my expertise on cosmetic plastic surgery in the latin population. Now, we have a waiting list for appointments.
Do not let me be misleading- not all 30,000 patients have actually come to see me. Some have not shown up, others have cancelled. Many other inquiries do not result in appointments. My staff handles all of these calls, as well as taking care of my returning patients for their postoperative course and new procedures as well.
I am humbled and grateful for the outpouring of support and love from the Hispanic community, and look forward to the next 30,000.
Why Read A Plastic Surgery Blog?
Every week for over a year now, I spend the time to write a blog on a topic I think will appeal to my patients, and to people in general. I often wonder how many people actually read it, and if it is indeed worthwhile to do so.
I try not to use my blogs as a simple commercial to sell my goods and services to people. It is not an ad, it is an educational tool. Sometimes it is a release for my creative energy, or a chance to share some light humor. Sometimes, even I do not know where the thoughts come from, it just happens. But why should you, or anyone, read my plastic surgery blog?
I feel that at Yager Esthetics, we are more than a plastic surgery practice. We are a center for education regarding not just plastic surgery, but nonsurgical treatments and skin care as well. We have a strong commitment to the Hispanic community, and concentrate and specialize our techniques for our patients. The blog is a free and informative tool to learn about plastic surgery, music, and life. It also gives you a little taste of my personality, which can help you decide if it is worth your time to visit me in Washington Heights.
So, why read a plastic surgery blog? It is fun, educational, and might just help you in ways you never expected.
Always Wear Clean Underwear
I remember growing up and hearing my mother say “Always wear clean underwear.” It was meant so that if you should have an accident, and have to go to a hospital, you wouldn’t embarrass your family by having holey or dirty underwear. Be prepared, so to speak.
Thinking about this brought up a new concept-maybe it means to always be prepared to make a good impression. You never know when you might meet that special someone or impress that new business opportunity. Make sure you look your best and behave professionally at all times.
At Yager Esthetics, that is basically our philosophy. Our office is always spotless and ready for a television interview, as we are often called upon to do when a plastic surgery story breaks in the Hispanic community. My staff is always professional and well prepared to handle any phone call or person who may stop in to inquire. My AAAASF certified outpatient Surgery Center is always fully stocked and inspected to insure safety.
I always keep an extra suit, shirt and tie in the office as a backup, and have second and third machines to replace my surgical equipment in case of malfunction, and even have a generator in case electricity fails and I need to complete my surgery.
These are all good reasons to feel safe with Yager Esthetics, but it is also a good philosophy for any successful business or approach to life. Clean underwear. Mom was right.