keywords

plastic surgery, aesthetic surgery, leadership, mentorship, women in medicine, practice management, patient care, surgical education, networking, professional development

summary
In this engaging conversation, Dr. Tracy Pfeifer shares her journey in plastic surgery, discussing her childhood influences, the path to her specialty, and the importance of leadership and mentorship in the field. She emphasizes the need for business acumen in establishing a successful practice and advocates for fair compensation for surgeons. Dr. Pfeifer also highlights the significance of patient-centric care and the evolving role of women in surgery, offering valuable advice for aspiring surgeons and the importance of networking and professional development.

takeaways

• Dr. Pfeifer's childhood was influenced by strong women in her family.
• She always aspired to be a surgeon from a young age.
• Plastic surgery appealed to her due to its creative and patient-centered nature.
• Building a successful practice takes time and effort, often around 10 years.
• Business acumen is crucial for running a successful practice.
• Surgeons should advocate for fair compensation and recognize their value.
• Research is important, but technical excellence should be prioritized.
• Patient experience is key to a thriving practice.
• Leadership in surgery requires vision and effective communication.
• Women in surgery are increasingly supported and have a bright future.

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Keywords

surgery, commitment, social media, mastery, medical field


Summary

In this conversation, Kyle Eberlin emphasizes the importance of commitment and focus in the field of surgery, particularly in an age dominated by social media distractions. He discusses the journey to mastery, highlighting that success requires dedication and hard work, and that aspiring surgeons must navigate the challenges posed by modern distractions to achieve their goals.


Takeaways

Commitment to excellence is crucial in surgery.
Social media can be a significant distraction.
Mastery in surgery requires hard work and dedication.
Surgeons must focus on their craft to succeed.
The journey to becoming a great surgeon is unique for everyone.
Distractions can derail one's professional goals.
Success in surgery is a continuous journey.
Dedication is what sets great surgeons apart.
It's important to block out external noise.
The best surgeons are those who prioritize their training.


Titles

Commitment to Excellence in Surgery



Sound bites

"Social media can distract from our goals."
"Mastery requires dedication and hard work."
"Commitment is key to becoming a great surgeon."

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keywords

plastic surgery, vascular surgery, medical education, career balance, family life, mentorship, lower extremity reconstruction, academic medicine, running, personal stories, work-life balance, sleep health, patient care, limb salvage surgery, women in medicine, career reflections, operating room music, surgical instruments

summary

In this engaging podcast episode, Dr. Karen Evans shares her journey through medicine, from her early interest in biology to her specialization in plastic and vascular surgery. The conversation delves into her educational background, the pivotal moments that shaped her career, and her experiences in the demanding field of lower extremity reconstruction. Dr. Evans also discusses the challenges of balancing a medical career with family life, her passion for mentoring young medical professionals, and her personal love for running. The episode highlights the importance of mentorship, the joy of academic medicine, and the unique stories that shape a physician's path. In this engaging conversation, Dr. Karen Evans discusses the balance of work and family life, the importance of sleep, and the evolving definitions of success in patient care. She shares insights on advancements in limb salvage surgery and the future of lower extremity surgery, emphasizing the role of women in medicine and the importance of individualized patient care. The discussion also touches on personal experiences, including living in her car during medical training, and the role of music in the operating room.

takeaways

• Dr. Evans emphasizes the importance of mentorship in academic medicine.
• Her early interest in biology was sparked by a unique experience in middle school.
• She found her passion in vascular surgery during her medical training.
• The transition to plastic surgery was influenced by a memorable debridement case.
• Balancing a demanding career with family life is a significant challenge for physicians.
• Dr. Evans values the energy and excitement that young medical students bring to her practice.
• She believes in the importance of finding one's niche in medicine during residency.
• Running has been a consistent part of her life and relationship with her husband.
• The support of family and caregivers has been crucial in her career.
• Dr. Evans shares a humorous anecdote about her early days in residency. Dr. Evans attributes her resilience to her mother's genetic strength.
• She believes in the importance of sleep but feels lucky to function well with less.
• Defining success in patient care is complex and varies by individual.
• Perforator-based flaps represent a significant advancement in surgery.
• The future of lower extremity surgery should focus on individualized care.
• Women in medicine can set great examples for future generations.
• Adaptability and flexibility are crucial in balancing work and family.
• Living in her car during training was a unique experience for Dr. Evans.
• Music plays a vital role in creating a positive atmosphere in the OR.
• The right surgical instruments can greatly enhance a surgeon's capabilities.

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Summary

In this engaging conversation, Dr. Amber Leis shares her unique journey from a rural upbringing to becoming a prominent figure in plastic surgery. She discusses the importance of mentorship, the role of social media in education, and her transition to a new position at WashU. Dr. Leis emphasizes the significance of emotional intelligence in medical training and offers valuable advice for aspiring plastic surgeons, including insights on personal statements and the match process. The discussion also touches on the challenges of moving and starting over, as well as the joys of personal growth and self-reflection.

Takeaways

The importance of community and mentorship in medical careers.

Social media can be a powerful tool for education and outreach.

Transitioning to a new role can lead to personal growth and reflection.

Competency-based education is the future of medical training.

Emotional intelligence is crucial in surgical training and practice.

Personal statements should focus on the applicant's unique story.

Research years should be tailored to individual needs and circumstances.

The match process requires strategic planning and preparation.

Engaging joyfully in education can enhance learning experiences.

Self-reflection is key to understanding one's journey and growth.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Dr. Amber Leis

02:02 Childhood and Early Influences

05:44 Path to Medicine and Plastic Surgery

09:18 Transition to Program Director

10:14 The Role of Social Media in Education

13:59 Moving Across the Country: Challenges and Opportunities

20:01 The Importance of Education in Plastic Surgery

21:36 Advice for Aspiring Plastic Surgeons

25:17 Navigating the Match Process

29:05 Final Thoughts on Resilience and Growth

30:15 Navigating Research Years in Plastic Surgery

34:02 Application Strategies and Interview Preparation

37:10 The Importance of Emotional Intelligence in Medicine

39:12 Competency-Based Education in Plastic Surgery

43:18 Personal Reflections and Career Transitions

Keywords

plastic surgery, education, mentorship, social media, career transition, personal growth, medical training, residency, emotional intelligence, research

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Guest: Dr. Jordan Swanson, Pediatric Plastic & Craniofacial Surgeon | Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP)

Podcast: the DIEP end

Episode Summary:
In this inspiring episode of The DIEP End, hosts Dr. Saїd Azoury and Hank Davis sit down with Dr. Jordan Swanson, a leading craniofacial and pediatric plastic surgeon at CHOP. From building forts in the woods of Washington State to building sustainable surgical centers in Nicaragua, Dr. Swanson shares a remarkable journey shaped by global health, mentorship, and innovation.

Listeners will hear how his unconventional path—including time at Harvard, Johns Hopkins, the London School of Economics, and McKinsey—ultimately reinforced his passion for clinical medicine and patient care. Dr. Swanson reflects on his pioneering global health work with Operation Smile, the legacy of his mentors at Hopkins and CHOP, and his dual practice spanning pediatric craniofacial surgery and gender-affirming care.

This conversation is a masterclass in surgical courage, patient empathy, and the future of plastic surgery—both at home and abroad.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
● How childhood experiences and global family influences shaped Dr. Swanson’s worldview

● Why two years away from medical school deepened his passion for clinical medicine

● Lessons from mentors like Dr. Eduardo Rodriguez, Dr. Paul Manson, and Dr. Linton Whittaker

● Building sustainable pediatric surgical care in Nicaragua with Operation Smile
● Balancing innovation and caution in pediatric craniofacial surgery

● The role of mentorship and bi-directional global training programs

● Insights into CHOP’s multidisciplinary cleft program and addressing disparities in care

● How gender-affirming surgery intersects with craniofacial reconstruction
● The growing role of technology and AI in surgical planning and patient outcomes

● Practical advice for residents pursuing craniofacial surgery

Quotable Moments:

● “Healthcare is cool in Philadelphia—you see people walk across the South Street Bridge with pride.”

● “When you innovate in pediatric surgery, it takes courage. You have to weigh the risk for a lifetime.”

● “Global surgery isn’t about us setting the agenda—it’s about supporting local surgeons with autonomy.”

● “Every patient encounter may feel routine for us, but for families, the bottom has just fallen out.”

● “Curiosity is the most powerful motivator—let it drive your training and career.”

Keywords (SEO-Driven):
plastic surgery podcast, Jordan Swanson CHOP, pediatric plastic surgeon, craniofacial surgery, cleft lip and palate program, global surgery innovation, Operation Smile Nicaragua, Linton Whitaker craniofacial, gender affirming facial surgery, AI in surgical planning, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia plastic surgery, mentorship in surgery, The DIEP End podcast

Follow Dr. Jordan Swanson:

● CHOP Profile: Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia

Follow The DIEP End:
● Instagram & YouTube: @thediependpodcast

● Spotify & Apple Podcasts: The DIEP End

Leave Us a Review: If you enjoyed this episode, please rate and review us on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Your feedback helps more listeners discover these inspiring conversations.

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Summary

In this engaging conversation, Dr. Gerald discusses his journey into medicine, the evolution of plastic surgery, and the impact of social media on the field. He reflects on his training, mentorship experiences, and the importance of maintaining a natural look for patients. Dr. Gerald shares valuable insights for future plastic surgeons, emphasizing the significance of hard work, honesty, and compassion in patient care. He also touches on the historical context of plastic surgery, particularly the influence of figures like Halstead, and concludes with personal reflections on life and career satisfaction.

Takeaways

Dr. Gerald's journey into medicine was influenced by his friends.

He found his passion for surgery during medical school.

Mentorship played a crucial role in his specialization in plastic surgery.

Plastic surgery has evolved to become more mainstream and accepted.

Social media has changed how plastic surgeons promote their work.

Future plastic surgeons should focus on both technical skills and patient interaction.

Dr. Gerald emphasizes the importance of looking natural in cosmetic surgery.

He believes in treating patients with dignity and kindness.

Music plays a significant role in his surgical practice.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Early Influences

02:39 Journey into Medicine and Personal Challenges

05:07 Training and Mentorship in Surgery

07:47 Evolution of Plastic Surgery

10:40 The Impact of Social Media on Plastic Surgery

13:31 Advice for Future Plastic Surgeons

23:40 The Influence of Friends and Colleagues

25:17 The Journey to Writing: Halstead's Story

27:35 Inspiration from Genius on the Edge

28:36 Halstead's Early Life and Transformation

30:42 The Right Man at the Right Time

31:15 Relationships with Medical Giants

33:24 Addiction and Innovation in Medicine

35:12 The Blessings of a Medical Career

36:52 The Leap of Innovation in Surgery

40:47 Passion Over Profit in Medical Storytelling

42:00 The Art of Writing and Publishing

43:58 Reflections on Mentorship and Legacy

45:51 The Human Side of Greatness

47:42 Life Lessons and Personal Philosophy

51:40 The Evolution of Medical Training

53:41 Gratitude and Life Reflections

55:03 Music in the Operating Room

56:10 Favorite Surgical Instruments and Stories

Keywords

plastic surgery, mentorship, social media, surgical training, Halstead, medical history, patient care, personal insights, surgical instruments, life lessons

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Send us a text

Support the show

Instagram: @thediependpodcast

Send us a text

Support the show

Instagram: @thediependpodcast