My Journey to Plastic Surgery

Born and raised in Germany, my professional journey has taken me to renowned medical institutions worldwide. After completing my medical studies at Heidelberg University, where I earned my first doctorate, I began my career in trauma surgery in Frankfurt am Main. My passion for precision, craftsmanship, and above all, the creative challenge of plastic surgery soon led me to this fascinating field. At the University Hospital Graz — one of the largest divisions for plastic, reconstructive, and aesthetic surgery in the German-speaking world — I not only completed my specialist training but also earned my second doctorate. As part of my training, I undertook extended educational stays in the USA, Switzerland, and South Africa. At that time, I became the youngest plastic surgeon in Austria to be awarded the Venia legendi - the qualification to lecture -at the time. This allowed me to pursue my passion for teaching and mentoring young colleagues alongside my clinical work. My active research work currently comprises over 60 peer-reviewed publications, my role as a reviewer for international scientific journals, the authorship of several book chapters and the function as editor of a medical textbook, has shown me that optimal results require not only clinical experience but also continuous learning and broad curiosity. For this reason, I pursued a Master’s degree in Leadership & Management at the University for Continuing Education Krems. Driven by my personal passion — aesthetic medicine — and the particular importance of integrity in this field, I founded the Research Unit for Responsible Aesthetic Medicine, which I have led ever since. It is especially important to me that aesthetic procedures meet the highest ethical and medical standards, and that patients receive adequate information. For this reason, I am committed not only to my patients but also to my colleagues. As an internationally recognized speaker and a member of the scientific board of the prestigious IMCAS congresses, I actively promote the responsible practice of aesthetic medicine to help it achieve the reputation it deserves. However, my professional focus extends beyond aesthetic surgery and encompasses the full spectrum of plastic surgery — from reconstruction and hand surgery to regenerative techniques. In addition to my private practice, I remain active at the Department of Plastic, Reconstructive, and Aesthetic Surgery at the University Hospital Graz. My goal is to harmonize function and aesthetics, developing individualized solutions that achieve natural and sustainable results for my patients. Outside the operating room, I am a passionate cook and musician. I deeply value connecting with my patients, as I firmly believe that people are at the heart of my work. Everyone brings their own story and unique needs, and my aim is to find the best possible path for each individual with empathy, expertise, and a creative perspective.