Preceptorship Program

Bernice Yan, MD shares her experience with Tina S. Alster, MD

As part of the ASLMS Preceptorship program, I had the privilege of working with Dr. Tina Alster at the Washington Institute of Dermatologic Laser Surgery in Washington D.C. Dr. Alster is a woman who needs no introduction; she is a pioneer and internationally-renowned expert in the field of lasers and energy-based devices. She is also a woman who goes by many names to her patients: Dr. All Star, Michelangelo, “T”, and my personal favorite, laser queen.

My week-long rotation with Dr. Alster was truly a pivotal experience in my residency training; it offered me a rare glimpse into the world of cosmetic dermatology in a flourishing private practice. From fractional laser resurfacing to cryolipolysis, Dr. Alster’s practice contains an impressive armamentarium of injectables, lasers, and energy-based devices at its disposal, ready to address any and all concerns that her patients may have. A few highlights from the week for me included observing the use of a picosecond laser for tattoo removal, chemical peels to treat dyspigmentation of burn scars, and platelet rich plasma for dark under-eye circles. I also had the invaluable opportunity to learn her algorithmic and combination treatment approaches to different cosmetic concerns, including pulsed dye laser and intralesional injections for hypertrophic and keloid scars, microneedling and fractional laser resurfacing for perioral rhytids, and Nd:YAG laser for facial telangiectasias.

Throughout the week, Dr. Alster maximized my learning opportunities whenever she had the chance. She would ensure that I knew when other members of the practice were performing less common procedures so that I could observe the use of these devices that I previously did not have any exposure to, such as CoolSculpting and Ultherapy. A testament to her nature as an educator and mentor, Dr. Alster routinely highlighted clinical treatment pearls during patient encounters and despite the busy pace of her practice, always made herself available to answer questions. One of the most fascinating and inspirational parts of my preceptorship was also witnessing the application of Dr. Alster’s own published clinical trial findings in the treatment of her patients. For example, every patient who receives fractional laser skin treatment at her practice receives light-emitting diode (LED) photomodulation subsequently, given Dr. Alster’s previously published findings that LED treatment decreases the intensity and duration of postfractional erythema. It was truly inspiring to see how Dr. Alster’s research and contributions to the field directly impact patient care.

Above all, the most impressive and inspiring part of my experience was witnessing the relationship between Dr. Alster and her patients. Dr. Alster’s empathetic nature and genuine compassion for her patients shined brightly throughout every encounter, and it was not a surprise to learn that many of her longtime patients consider her as not only their go-to cosmetic dermatologist, but also as their friend. As an internationally-renowned cosmetic dermatologist, Dr. Alster manages to remain approachable and warmly welcomes patients and mentees alike
into her practice. Apart from providing an unparalleled educational experience, Dr. Alster also invariably provides mentorship and inspiration to all those in her presence. From my week with Dr. Alster, I left Washington D.C. more knowledgeable, more cultured, and a whole lot more inspired.

Many thanks to Dr. Alster, the ASLMS Preceptorship program, and its sponsors for this invaluable and memorable experience.

Aderonke Obayomi, MD, MPH shares her experience with Andrew F. Alexis, MD, MPH

As part of the ASLMS Preceptorship Program, I had the opportunity to spend three weeks with Dr. Andrew Alexis at Weill Cornell in New York City. I pursued this opportunity to broaden my exposure to laser surgery especially in skin of color patients. This was an invaluable experience as Dr. Alexis is a true pioneer in the field. I actually met Dr. Alexis, four years ago as a medical student who was eager to learn anything I could about Dermatology. Through the ASLMS preceptorship program, I chose to work with Dr. Alexis again, but now armed with a much deeper knowledge of medical and cosmetic Dermatology. Through his work he has shown the safety and efficacy of lasers in skin of color patients. All his patients love him for his thoroughness, kindness, and expertise. Dr. Alexis is an incredible mentor to me both professionally and personally. He has a wealth of knowledge to share, and he taught me many of the nuances to be aware of when dealing with energy devices. Additionally, his clinical team was excellent and very welcoming, making me feel like I was a part of the team right away. I highly recommend this rotation to any dermatology resident interested in learning more about cosmetic dermatology and how to provide exceptional patient-centered, evidence-based care. I hope to emulate his same character and bring his pearls of wisdom to my future patients! I am so grateful of the ASLMS program, The Allergen Foundation, Merz Aesthetics, and Dr. Alexis for a truly fun and unforgettable learning experience!

Melissa A. Levoska, MD shares her experience with Jeffrey S. Dover, MD, FRCPC

I had the pleasure of spending the week, learning from Drs. Jeffrey Dover, Michael Kaminer, Karen Kim, Thomas Rohrer, and Brooke Sikora at SkinCare Physicians of Chestnut Hill. Dr. Dover helped create a schedule for me that was focused on lasers and cosmetics with some Mohs and surgical exposure. As soon as I arrived, I was greeted by the practice’s welcoming office staff who graciously gave me a tour and introduced me to the physicians. I then spent the morning with Dr. Dover, where I saw a wide variety of procedures including neuromodulator injections for axillary hyperhidrosis and rhytides, periorbital skin tightening and various laser treatments. Not only did I get a crash course in cosmetic dermatology, but he provided valuable clinical pearls from years of experience and taught me how to set patient expectations. Dr. Dover and his colleagues treat their patients like family with many patients returning for decades. I was struck by his ability to create a calming atmosphere during clinic visits that set patients at ease.

After lunch, I spent time with Dr. Rohrer, a gifted Mohs surgeon, who described his lidocaine injection techniques, tray set-up, and reasoning for choosing different closures. Many of his tips for excisions and suture material will be helpful for my clinical practice. The following day, Dr. Kaminer taught me various neuromodulator injection techniques. I was impressed by his precision and eye for detail. I then had the opportunity to learn from the wonderful and fashionable Dr. Sikora who showed me her tricks for tear trough and lip filler injections. As a bonus, she inspired me to strive to wear stilettos all day in clinic! The next day, I had the joy of working with Dr. Kim, observing fractional CO2 laser resurfacing, laser tattoo removal and intense pulsed light treatments. She provided clear explanations for her clinical reasoning and taught me the importance of discussing risks and side effects of procedures prior to treatment.

Dr. Dover, the other physicians, nurses, medical assistants, and office staff at SkinCare Physicians of Chestnut Hill created a positive space for me to ask questions and learn cosmetic dermatology. I am confident I will use the skills I learned daily in my clinical practice. More importantly, I now have a better understanding of my abilities as well as my limitations with regards to cosmetic procedures. The preceptorship also allowed me to learn more about working in a private practice setting, which I have not had as much exposure to during my residency training. I would like to thank Dr. Dover and SkinCare Physicians for providing a transformative learning experience that will undoubtedly improve the way I care for my future patients.

Jean-Phillip Okhovat, MD, MPH shares his experience with Jeffrey Dover, MD, FRCPC and Thomas Rohrer, MD

I was fortunate to be able to spend my ASLMS preceptorship shadowing Dr. Thomas Rohrer and Dr. Jeffrey Dover at SkinCare Physicians in Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts. Dr. Rohrer and Dr. Dover are truly pioneers in Mohs surgery and procedural and cosmetic dermatology and I was quickly introduced to their warm, welcoming staff and trainees during the course of my preceptorship.

During my time with Dr. Rohrer and Dr. Dover, I was able to both witness and engage in the vast array of clinical activities performed in the office, and learn about many laser and energy-based devices. I was able to participate in a number of surgical procedures with Dr. Rohrer, in addition to witnessing the use of the Fraxel laser, neurotoxin injections, and filler techniques with Dr. Dover. It was truly a privilege to be able to learn from such world-renowned leaders of the field, as I quickly gained much knowledge and exposure during my preceptorship.

Furthermore, the relationships that Dr. Rohrer and Dr. Dover each had with their patients was much unlike any others I have experienced. Each knew their patients stories, backgrounds, interests, and everyone was treated with such a kind, gentle, warm sense of compassion and respect. The nursing staff and trainees during my time at SkinCare Physicians welcomed me with open arms and made an interest in getting to know me as a person and learning about my background.

The ASLMS preceptorship provided me with an avenue to connect with some of the brightest minds and compassionate physicians in the field. I learned a great amount of knowledge about the subtle art of cosmetic and laser procedures, in addition to being able to witness such strong patient-physician relationships during the course of my time, which I hope to emulate in my own career. I am very grateful for the ASLMS Preceptorship Program to have provided me with this unique and invaluable experience.  

Lisa Akintilo, MD, MPH shares her experience with Mitchel P. Goldman, MD 

As part of the ASLMS Preceptorship Program, I had the opportunity to spend a week with Dr. Mitchel P. Goldman and his colleagues at Cosmetic Laser Dermatology (CLD) in San Diego, California. I pursued this opportunity to broaden my exposure to laser surgery and aesthetic medicine in a completely new environment on the opposite side of the country. To say my week was eye-opening is an understatement. In five short days, I was able to immerse myself in the world of cosmetic dermatologic surgery and observe a multitude of procedures including neuromodulators, fillers, sclerotherapy, and a diverse variety of lasers and energy-based devices. Devices I found particularly interesting included fully-ablative laser resurfacing, tumescent liposuction, InstaLift, microfocused ultrasound, radio frequency with and without microneedling—all procedures I have had very limited exposure to in the past.  By shadowing Drs. Goldman, Butterwick, Groff, Wu, and Boen, I was able to learn first-hand not only the mechanics behind these procedures/devices, but also how to effectively communicate a comprehensive plan to patients and engage in respectful shared decision-making. All the attendings and fellows at CLD were so genuine and gracious enough to take the time to address my questions and include me in the patients’ encounters, going out of their way to provide cosmetic pearls (including what adjustments they would make to their treatment plans for skin of color patients, a particular interest of mine) and tips for creating/maintaining a successful career.

I am so grateful I had the opportunity to learn alongside such pioneers in the field of dermatology. Furthermore, the entire CLD family was incredibly kind and welcoming to me. Every single person I interacted with was immensely friendly and made sure to include me in office activities/events, making me feel right at home. I hope to someday work in such a collegial, respectful, and engaging environment where everyone pushes each other to perform at their very best. My week at CLD was an invaluable part of my dermatology residency training, having sparked in me a renewed passion for aesthetics, energy-based devices, and evidence-based medicine. Many thanks to ASLMS and Dr. Goldman for providing me with such an educational and memorable preceptorship experience, one that I will never forget!  

Christina Tejeda, MD shares her experience with Robert Weiss, MD, FAAD and Margaret Weiss, MD

During my ASLMS preceptorship, I had the privilege of working with Dr. Robert Weiss and Dr. Margaret Weiss at the Maryland Dermatology, Laser, Skin and Vein Institute. This experience far exceeded my expectations!

I gained great insight observing how they approached patients during consultations, counselling patients on pros and cons as well as setting patient expectations. During the week I gained familiarity with multiple lasers. I was also lucky to have the opportunity to learn from Dr. Wu, Dr. Halvorson, and Dr. Noell who had great interest in sharing their knowledge.

This program provided me with new insights on how to treat commonly encountered dermatologic conditions with energy-based devices. In addition to devices, I learned new techniques and perspectives on injectables while further understanding how to manage complications that arise.

All in all, this amazing experience enhanced my knowledge as well as my understanding of other treatment modalities available. I am again thankful for this preceptorship as well as the faculty’s eagerness to teach.  

Tiana Kazemi, MD shares her experience with Mitchel Goldman, MD

I had the honor of spending two weeks with Dr. Mitchel Goldman and his colleagues at the premier Cosmetic Laser Dermatology in San Diego, California. Dr. Goldman is a true expert and pioneer in the field of dermatology who has both invented and helped create numerous techniques and devices that are now considered the gold standard of treatment in the field of cosmetic and aesthetic dermatology. It was absolutely incredible to hear first-hand from Dr. Goldman himself about the inspiration that led to the creation of procedures and devices now used in dermatology practices across the globe.

During these two weeks, I also had the privilege of working with Dr. Goldman’s colleagues, including Drs. Wu, Fabi, Boen, Butterwick, and Groff as well as Dr. Goldman’s Cosmetic Dermatology Fellows, Drs. Hartman and Loyal. The chance to learn from so many different true experts during one rotation is a unique and exceptional strength of this preceptorship. Additionally, I was able to observe a wide breadth of treatments including neuromodulators, fillers, intense pulse light, lasers, radiofrequency, liposuction/liposculpture, sclerotherapy, phlebectomy, and venaseal vein closure to name a few. It was incredible to see procedures that I had read about in textbooks and journal articles come to life in the expert hands of Dr. Goldman and his colleagues.

Throughout these two weeks, no matter how busy the clinic was, Dr. Goldman, his colleagues, and the wonderful nurses and medical assistants always made me feel welcome and went out of their way to enhance my learning experience. I was able to sit in on consults and observe how to establish excellent patient rapport and educate and empower patients to achieve their desired cosmetic goals while minimizing unnecessary risks and procedures. I was also able to observe procedures in the operating suites, including full face laser ablation and varicose vein treatment, and follow the patient during subsequent post-op appointments, thereby not only learning how to best perform a procedure but also the equally important best practices of post-procedure recovery.

I am so appreciative of the ASLMS, The Allergen Foundation and Merz Aesthetics, and Dr. Goldman and his entire team for a truly unique experience. I look forward to applying the tips, tricks, and pearls of wisdom that I learned during this experience in my future practice. I highly recommend this rotation to any dermatology resident interested in learning more about cosmetic dermatology and/or how to provide exceptional patient-centered care.

Christina Anne Del Guzzo, MD shares her experience with Tina Alster, MD

I had the privilege of participating in a week-long preceptorship with Dr. Tina Alster at the Washington Institute of Dermatologic Laser Surgery. I was thrilled to have the opportunity to broaden my exposure to laser and light-based devices with such a leader and pioneer in the field.

I learned far more than I could have imagined in my one week with Dr. Alster and it is a testament to her extraordinary practice, expertise, and teaching ability. I gained firsthand experience in strategies to optimize non-ablative laser resurfacing, applications of vascular and pigment-specific lasers, and the many indications for microneedling. Dr. Alster customizes each treatment to match the patient’s specific goals while simultaneously distilling the complicated field of laser medicine into digestible clinical pearls and basic principles. I was particularly excited to see her novel approaches to complex patients, including those with burns and vascular malformations, where she uses multimodality techniques to optimize patient outcomes. Observing her in-depth patient counseling highlighted for me the importance of addressing expectations during the patient consultation, techniques to avoid adverse events, and the importance of post-treatment care.

Dr. Alster brings kindness, energy and enthusiasm to every interaction and her passion for her work is inspiring. She is beloved by her patients and approaches each one with compassion and patience. Dr. Alster treated every patient interaction, as well as the time between patients, as an opportunity to teach and impart her expertise. She discussed the science behind the devices and took the time to review relevant articles with me. Dr. Alster is not only someone to emulate for her clinical acumen, but she also serves as a role model for leadership in dermatology. She is actively engaged in clinical, research, and educational endeavors and it was valuable to observe how she balances and integrates these responsibilities. Dr. Alster kindly took the time to learn about my career goals and provided thoughtful advice and insight.

I know that I will take what I learned from Dr. Alster to further my goals of integrating lasers and light-based devices into my academic career. A special thank you to ASLMS, Allergan and Merz for making this opportunity possible. I am infinitely grateful to Dr. Alster and her staff for welcoming me into their office and providing such an invaluable experience.

Rosannah Marie Velasquez, MD shares her experience with Suneel Chilukuri, MD

I am extremely grateful and honored to have the opportunity to learn from Dr. Suneel Chilukuri as part of the ASLMS preceptorship program. From the moment I stepped into the Refresh Dermatology office, Dr. Chilukuri was very welcoming and genuinely wanted to teach me from his years of experience in practice in all aspects of medicine.

I was immediately blown away with all the cutting-edge technology in his office and how active he is in research and product development. As I observed Dr. Chilukuri during his patient encounters, I saw not only his highly personalized techniques for neurotoxins, fillers, and lasers, but more importantly the trust he has developed with each patient. Each day my education was at the forefront of Dr. Chilukuri’s mind with setting goals of what I wanted to learn for the day and reviewing patients at the end of the day to answer any lingering questions. Any time between patients was spent teaching me about the intricacies of the business side of the practice.

Dr. Chilukuri, his amazing current fellow Dr. Trivedi, and his entire staff at Refresh Dermatology provided the setting for a phenomenal preceptorship. Dr. Chilukuri is a true inspirational role model balancing family, a successful practice, research and product development, leadership roles, and making time to educate the next generation. I thoroughly enjoyed my experience and words cannot express how much I have gained from the preceptorship. I am very thankful to ASLMS for making this preceptorship possible to further develop my passions as a dermatologist.

Alice He, MD shares her experience with Rebecca Kazin, MD

I worked with Dr. Rebecca Kazin, MD as part of my ASLMS preceptorship experience. Upon arrival, I immediately felt welcomed at her office, ICON Dermatology in North Bethesda. Dr. Kazin took me under her wing and made it a point to ensure I was able to observe every procedure she performed. Despite her busy schedule and many responsibilities throughout the workday, she kindly took time out between patients to debrief after each procedure and explain her thought process and injection technique. I was even able to work with the other dermatologist in the practice, Dr. Brenda Pellicane, who graciously allowed me to observe her during a laser procedure while I was between patients. 

It is clearly evident from my very first patient encounter with her that Dr. Kazin’s number one priority is her patients’ happiness and satisfaction. When patients come into her office requesting specific procedures, Dr. Kazin takes the time to carefully evaluate whether that procedure will truly allow the patient to obtain the most amount of improvement and satisfaction they desire. If not, then she will recommend another procedure that is better suited to address the patient’s concerns. Because of this, in just my short time with Dr. Kazin, I witnessed dozens of patients flock to her office on the strong recommendation of family and friends, including patients who have steadfastly followed her throughout her entire career and patients who drove hours from other cities to see her--a true testament to how skilled Dr. Kazin is and the type of relationship she is able to build with her patients. 

At the completion of this preceptorship experience, I was surprised at how much more comfortable I became with fillers, including the science behind different types, the selection process, and injection technique. While this was always my goal entering this preceptorship, I was dubious at how much I could really absorb in this short period of time. But I was really able to learn so much as I listened to Dr. Kazin explain to each patient the thought process behind where to put which filler, observed her precise injection technique, and saw the subtle but notable before and after differences that appeared. Time and time again, patients would erupt into wide smiles upon seeing their reflection after the procedure, always in awe at how much of a difference such a subtle change in their facial structure could make. 

Dr. Kazin’s office in North Bethesda is beautiful, immaculately clean, and exudes a sense of calm and tranquility that seems to put patients immediately at ease. Her office is stocked with a multitude of fillers and neurotoxins, and also boasts a plethora of laser devices ready to treat a variety of patient concerns. 

Dr. Kazin is humble and unassuming, despite her many accolades and recognitions in the field of dermatology. My experience in the ASLMS preceptorship program was fantastic, and I highly recommend this experience to others. 

Emily Chea, DO shares her experience with Eric F. Bernstein, MD, MSE and Kachiu Lee, MD, MPH 

I was fortunate enough to gain two mentors during my week at Main Line Center for Laser Surgery. From the start of my rotation, Dr. Eric Bernstein and Dr. Kachiu Lee made me feel at home as part of their team. Their passion for their fields fostered an unparalleled learning experience.  

Dr. Bernstein is an internationally recognized leader in laser medicine and surgery and has developed treatment protocols and patents for many lasers. Despite being a world-renowned expert, Dr. Bernstein’s modesty and contagious love for lasers was empowering. He established a safe learning environment and emphasized that no resident should feel intimidated by the complexity of lasers; they are as simple as ROYGBIV. He demonstrated the use of various PDL, KTP, Nd:YAG (pico and nanosecond), and Fraxel® lasers. Additionally, Dr. Bernstein’s ability to simplify extremely complex technologies with such ease served my education well. His presentation reviewed the basic physics and concepts of lasers, types of lasers and their indications, safety precautions, and challenges and complications associated with the use of lasers. He utilized individual laser parts to demonstrate the general mechanism of lasers and modifications made for various laser types and pulse durations. I’m thankful to have learned from the best in the field, and I’m excited to integrate his clinical pearls and earnest enthusiasm for lasers into my future practice.

Dr. Lee is a nationally renowned expert in the medical and cosmetic applications of injectables and lasers. Dr. Lee’s humble and approachable demeanor created a warm, welcoming space for me to learn. She set aside time between patients to debrief and expand upon my textbook understanding of injectables. Between patients, she reviewed the safety profiles of the injectable used, including recent data regarding delayed inflammatory reactions to hyaluronic acid fillers, and she elaborated on different techniques and strategies for the best cosmetic outcome. Dr. Lee emphasized that neuromodulator and filler injections follow an art more so than an algorithm. She demonstrated the importance of thoroughly and judiciously examining your patient through a creative lens. I am inspired by Dr. Lee and hope to emulate her clinical and creative prowess.

Effective mentorship is said to be an important determinant of success in dermatology, and I am incredibly grateful to have forged these two mentoring relationships through the ASLMS program. I highly recommend this rewarding and invaluable opportunity to any resident who is considering applying!

Margaret Dennin Bruns, MD shares her experience with Carolyn Jacob, MD 

I am incredibly grateful to the ASLMS for the opportunity to spend two weeks with Dr. Jacob. This was an invaluable learning experience. It exposed me to aspects of dermatology that I would never have otherwise seen during residency. It gave me many new tools to incorporate into my practice that will allow me to be a better dermatologist and best serve my future patients.

Dr. Jacob is a naturally gifted teacher and clearly has a passion for working with residents. She was consistently willing to answer my many questions and explained concepts in an easy to understand manner. Furthermore, her rapport with patient’s is excellent. She shows patience and truly listens to cosmetic concerns. Observing these skills will help me empathetically address cosmetic concerns as I transition to practicing on my own next year. I learned about the importance of taking excellent photographs and training staff to complete pre and post cosmetic care. Furthermore, Dr. Jacob taught me about running an effective practice. The physician assistants, medical assistants and office staff were all extremely welcoming and really contributed to a wonderful learning experience.

During my preceptorship, I was exposed to numerous lasers I had not previously seen, including CO₂, Fraxel®, Alexandrite, and KTP. Dr. Jacob talked me through pre and post laser counseling, laser settings and the appropriate use of each laser for specific dermatologic indications. Furthermore, I observed the use of state of the art energy-based devices, including Thermage®, CoolSculpting®, Emtone™, Emsculpt Neo®, EmSculpt®, miraDry®, and RESONIC™. Exposure to these devices helped me learn new approaches to address cellulite, abdominal fat, excess skin laxity and hyperhidrosis. I feel much more confident counseling patients about these procedures going forward. In addition to lasers, I learned about other cosmetic procedures, including neuromodulators, fillers, chemical peels, microneedling, and microdermabrasion. Dr. Jacob taught me her approach to placement of neurotoxins and fillers. Additionally, I learned about avoiding and managing complications from injectables. It was particularly satisfying to see these cosmetic procedures applied in an evidence-based approach and the associated patient satisfaction.

I cannot recommend this preceptorship enough to all dermatology residents. I feel extremely lucky to have learned from such a leader in laser and cosmetic surgery and am forever grateful to Dr. Jacob for her time. I will always remember these two weeks as a highlight of my residency training.

Elizabeth Kream, MD shares her experience with Mitchell Goldman, MD 

I am grateful to the ASLMS for supporting my preceptorship with Dr. Mitchell Goldman. I enjoyed observing a variety of modalities to address both cosmetic and medical dermatologic complaints. Some highlights include seeing superficial basal cell carcinomas treated with pulsed dye laser and facial rejuvenation with non-fractionated ablative laser. At one point Dr. Goldman mentioned how you could give a child a scalpel and the scalpel does not make the child a surgeon, likewise, lasers themselves do not denote a physician as a laser surgeon. Rather, an intimate understanding of concepts such as selective photothermolysis and anatomy will allow authorities like Dr. Goldman to expertly treat patients. This idea reverberates with me and affirms my excitement of pursuing formal training after residency to learn more about modalities such as lasers.

Shane Swink, DO, MS shares his experience with Katarina Kesty, MD

My two weeks with Dr. Kat Kesty at St. Petersburg Skin and Laser was immensely valuable. She uses multiple lasers and devices to create a personalized plan with each patient to reach their goals. Beyond learning the technical use and science behind the devices, seeing Dr. Kesty navigate patient encounters with such finesse was an experience I will carry forward in my own practice. Her care and expertise in every encounter ensures that her patients feel that they are receiving the best care possible.

I also learned that it takes a great deal of training and skill to properly use lasers and that it is critical to educate our patients on that level of expertise. This allows patients to make the most informed decisions possible to help them achieve their goals. The same sentiments were echoed with the use of injectables as well, including various ways to use neurotoxins to alter the contours of the neck, lips, and eyebrows. Patients clearly appreciated Dr. Kesty’s thoroughness in her explanations and they felt very safe and comfortable under her care. In between patients, she was sure to go over all of the reasoning and science behind the procedures and always ensured I was learning something from each encounter.

Beyond learning about lasers and other procedures, Dr. Kesty and her staff were so welcoming of my two weeks in her office, making me feel like I was at my home program. I feel extremely lucky to have had the opportunity to work with Dr. Kesty and look forward to her mentorship throughout my career. I’m also very thankful for the ASLMS Preceptorship Program who made this possible and I encourage all residents to take advantage of the opportunity if possible!

Gabriella Vasile, DO shares her experience with Tina Alster, MD

I am extremely grateful to ASLMS for providing me with the opportunity to rotate with Dr. Tina Alster at the Washington Institute of Dermatologic Laser Surgery in Washington, DC. Dr. Alster is a world-renowned expert on lasers and energy-based devices.

Dr. Alster has a wide variety of lasers (both ablative and non-ablative) and energy-based devices at her clinic, including PDL, CO₂, Fraxel® Dual, Fraxel® Clear and Brilliant, Picoway® laser, and IPL. I was also exposed to new techniques for cosmetic injectables such as fillers and toxins. Dr. Alster went out of her way to teach me in every single patient room. I learned laser settings and indications for each laser device for all skin types and ages. Dr. Alster employs laser in her practice not only for cosmetic procedures like facial rejuvenation and the treatment of photodamage but also for scar revision, hemangiomas, port wine stains and even medical conditions. I also found it interesting to observe how Dr. Alster layers certain treatments on qualified patients for enhanced results.

I learned not only about the fundamentals of lasers, but also the business side of how to have successful practice as a dermatologist and laser expert. Dr. Alster seamlessly balanced a busy schedule without compromising patient care. Her patients look up to her and completely trust her with all decisions, something I strive for.

Dr. Tina Alster is an amazing role model, mentor, and my time with her will never be forgotten. The lessons and teaching that I received during my week-long rotation are invaluable and will be useful in my future career as a dermatologist. Thank you, Dr. Alster and ASLMS for this opportunity! 

Jacqueline McKesey, MD, MS shares her experience with Melanie Palm, MD, MBA

I recently completed my ASLMS preceptorship with Dr. Melanie Palm, MD, MBA in Solana Beach, CA. I knew I was in for a treat from the first day of our preceptorship. I was greeted by her warm and generous staff, including her lovely service dogs! Flawlessly, Dr. Palm incorporated me into her patient visits.

The first day, we hit the ground running with clinical trials, IPL, and Sculptra® Aesthetic. She also had several medical dermatology visits to add to her busy schedule. Dr. Palm warmly greeted her patients, some even got puppy kisses, and introduced me as a member of the Art of Skin MD family.

Dr. Palm first taught me the art of a new patient consultation. I learned how to integrate the use of energy-based devices such as radiofrequency microneedling with trichloroacetic acid CROSS technique and subcision for acne scars. Dr. Palm also showed me great outcomes resulting from the combination of alternating treatments of Ultherapy® with Radiesse® for rejuvenation of the face and neck. Additionally, Dr. Palm ensured that I spent time with her other clinical staff.  Her Physician Assistant demonstrated the use of laser devices to remove a multi-colored tattoo. Dr. Palm’s body sculpting expert demonstrated the combination of EmSculpt®NEO with CoolSculpting® for best outcomes of a patient with persistent abdominal fat.

Dr. Palm also demonstrated her unique technique for treatment of chronically photodamaged skin, which is quite prevalent in sunny Solana Beach, California! Dr. Palm combined PDT with IPL, blue light, and often fractional CO₂ laser for best results.

It was a treat to work with Dr. Palm and her staff. Her patients love her! Her bedside manner and expertise truly support her reputation as a trendsetter in the field.  

Elaine Lin, MD shares her experience with Tina Alster, MD

Everything regarding my preceptorship with Dr. Alster was nothing less than spectacular. I enjoyed every day of my preceptorship, from the warm welcome from the staff to absorbing high yield clinical pearls from Dr. Alster. Dr. Alster is highly knowledgeable with years of research to support her methods of cosmetic and laser surgery practice. She is also very charming and willing to teach in a highly relevant manner, making digestion of concepts very easy. She walked me through basic laser safety principles and practical approaches to laser surgery, outlining clearly her methodology and pre and post procedural considerations.  I was also provided with reading materials throughout the week which definitely enriched the learning experience. Because she made sure not one question of mine went unanswered, I feel much more confident in the use of multiple lasers, including but not limited to Clear + Brilliant^®, Fraxel^® DUAL, Pulsed Dye Laser, Nd:Yag, and PicoWay^®. Also, Dr. Alster was not shy in outlining her basic approach to neurotoxins and fillers. She guided me step by step on how to restore aged faces to a youthful upside-down triangle. She was very cognizant in making sure I got to see a colorful variety of all the procedures her practice offers, which made my experience very well rounded and fulfilling. The medical assistants and nurse practitioner were also very welcoming and willing to include us in their procedural visits. Without a doubt, I gained an immense amount of knowledge regarding cosmetics and laser surgery that I otherwise would not have gotten if I did not participate in the ASLMS preceptorship program. I feel extremely lucky to have gotten the rare and special opportunity to learn from a leader in laser surgery. I would highly recommend this preceptorship to every dermatology resident. And if I could do a second preceptorship, I would!

Ben Kim, MD shares his experience with Rebecca Kazin, MD

I had the privilege of participating in a preceptorship with Dr. Rebecca Kazin at the Washington Institute of Dermatologic Laser Surgery in Chevy Chase, Maryland. I had pursued this opportunity to broaden my exposure to laser surgery and aesthetic medicine, in a new practice environment, in a different country. I am truly grateful to have met that goal with the help of Dr. Kazin, who is an exemplary teacher and physician.

The ASLMS preceptorship provided me with an immersive experience in laser surgery and aesthetic medicine with an expert in the field. I observed a wide variety of cases and procedures, including injectables, lasers, and other energy-based devices. Before meeting the patient, Dr. Kazin reviewed with me the relevant history, patient concerns, and a tentative plan. While in the patient room, I had the chance to observe Dr. Kazin expertly and comprehensively address the patient’s concerns one by one. Post-encounter, we had a chance to review the case and debrief. Dr. Kazin always had the time to not only describe but also explain her approach to common and unique conditions based on the case at hand. She explained her rationale for choosing a specific treatment in favor of an alternative and shared with me the clinical pearls that she gained through previous experience. I always felt so welcome to ask questions and bring up my own thoughts and ideas after each encounter. And this went a long way in complementing my own readings at home and reinforcing my appreciation of this field as a marriage of scientific rigor and artistic sensibility. I was grateful for her explanations of fundamental concepts, as well as her candid and practical reflections on real-life clinical cases.

The one thing that has left a strong impression on me was the bedside manners that Dr. Kazin demonstrated so effortlessly. One of the most rewarding aspects of this preceptorship was the opportunity to see how Dr. Kazin interacted with her patients and guided that conversation, which I feel is a crucial part of the procedure itself. I better appreciate now that there is more to this field than basic principles and competency in technical skills. Just as important as the interaction of light with the skin- is the interaction with the patient: picking up subtle cues both verbal and non-verbal; fully understanding the patient in a global and personal way; and ultimately providing the best personalized care possible. Even much later I would reflect back on specific and intentional ways Dr. Kazin engaged with patients, conveyed specific emotions, and ultimately made her patients feel that they were cared for from start to finish. These experiences provided me with that unique opportunity to further improve my communication skills that are especially important in this field of medicine. This was one of the most enlightening learnings that I will bring back home from my preceptorship with Dr. Kazin.

Overall, I can say with confidence that this preceptorship has been an invaluable part of my training as a well-rounded dermatology resident. It sparked in me a renewed perspective for aesthetic medicine as well as personal curiosity and anticipation for how technologies will continue to evolve and be applied in exciting novel ways to both cosmetic and medical realms of dermatology. I am truly grateful for the opportunity to have worked with Dr. Rebecca Kazin and Dr. Brenda Pellicane who clearly have a genuine interest in teaching and sharing their experiences with young dermatologists. This further challenges and inspires me to do the same in the future by providing excellent patient care and contributing to the field by teaching and supporting the next generation of dermatologists.

Nkemjika Ugonabo, MD, MPH, shares her experience with Mitchel P. Goldman, MD

I had the incredible opportunity to participate in an ASLMS preceptorship with Dr. Mitchel P. Goldman at Cosmetic Laser Dermatology (CLD) in San Diego, California and it was extraordinary in every way imaginable. While shadowing, I had the opportunity to observe Dr. Goldman perform a variety of procedures including neuromodulators, fillers and almost every laser and energy-based device conceived. I was also fortunate to join Dr. Goldman in the OR as he performed tumescent liposuction, fully-ablative laser resurfacing, Thermage, and phlebectomy. Above all, I was most impressed by Dr. Goldman’s bedside manner, demeanor, trust, and rapport. It is clear why he is so well-liked and respected by both his patients and peers. He made me feel like part of the team during my short time there. Not only did he include me in his discussions with patients, he went above and beyond to address questions. While experiences within and outside of residency were helpful in laying a foundation in the field, there is nothing like learning beside one of the pioneers in the field of cosmetic dermatology.  

In addition, I also had the opportunity to shadow Dr. Goldman’s colleagues including Dr. Fabi, Dr. Wu, Dr. Butterwick and Dr.Groff. They all contributed to a warm, welcoming environment where learning and intellectual curiosity were nurtured. They welcomed me to observe their most interesting cases, and went out of their way to share cosmetic pearls. I had the opportunity to see more procedures including sclerotherapy, ultherapy, Silhouette InstaLift and liposculpture. 

Finally, I was very impressed with the work environment at Cosmetic Laser Dermatology. Every staff member contributed to a congenial, efficient, environment with superb morale. All members of the team put patients first and it was incredibly inspiring to spend a week in such an impressive workplace. Overall, the week was an unforgettably amazing experience, and I am incredibly grateful to ASLMS and Dr. Goldman for giving me the opportunity!

Justin Bryant, DO, MBA shares his experience with Bruce Katz, MD

The exposure, experience, and knowledge I gained during a one-week ASLMS sponsored preceptorship with Dr. Bruce Katz in Manhattan was invaluable. Dr. Katz has a wide variety of lasers and energy-based devices, which he incorporates into his dermatology practice, Juva Skin & Laser Center. As a dermatologist, Dr. Katz’s thorough knowledge of the cellular and physiologic basis of these various treatment modalities provides an excellent preceptorship learning experience. Tailoring the choice of device, combination with other treatments, and specific settings to each patient’s desired result and lifestyle was emphasized and demonstrated in his patient population. Throughout my preceptorship experience, Dr Katz was very inclusive of my participation and education in his clinic, evidencing his passion for the field and commitment to teaching. Dr. Katz’s expertise in the field was most notable by his up-to-date knowledge of the literature, ever present utilization of evidence-based practice, and ongoing participation in multiple research projects. The knowledge I gained through this ASLMS preceptorship opportunity will undoubtedly influence my career, providing me with an introduction and foundation in lasers and energy-based devices. I am very grateful and appreciative of Dr. Katz and ASLMS for providing this unique opportunity and would highly recommend participation in an ASLMS preceptorship to others regardless of their prior experience, as an opportunity to learn from experts in the field, gain new perspectives and learn about variations in technique.

Brooke Rothstein, MD shares her experience with Joel Cohen, MD, FAAD, FACMS

I had the privilege of spending one week shadowing Dr. Joel Cohen at his office AboutSkin Dermatology and DermSurgery in Greenwood Village, Colorado. Dr. Cohen is a world-renowned expert in procedural/cosmetic dermatology and Mohs surgery. Dr. Cohen champions resident education, and I was warmly welcomed by him and all of his staff members despite the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. His office took the utmost precautions to ensure that patients, staff, and visitors were safe, and I am extremely grateful that they were able to host me during this challenging time.

I was quickly integrated into the office and started seeing both clinic and research patients immediately with Dr. Cohen. He has a large arsenal of lasers and energy-based devices, many of which I have not seen during my residency training. I was able to witness Dr. Cohen utilize multiple treatment modalities throughout my week, including ablative fractional resurfacing with the carbon dioxide and erbium lasers for facial aging and scar revision. Dr. Cohen had new techniques and insights to offer for procedures I was already well-acquainted with, including neurotoxin and filler injections. Between patients, Dr. Cohen educated me on upcoming advances in the field and the numerous research studies taking place in his office. He printed out various research articles for me to read, and we also discussed other topics that we were interested in writing together for future publication.

Observing Dr. Cohen’s interactions with his patients and staff members was invaluable. He treats everyone in the office like family, and it is clear that his patients and staff alike have an unyielding degree of respect for him and his expertise. I learned a great deal by listening to him counsel patients and tailor his procedural recommendations to each individual patient’s needs. Witnessing his counseling and decision-making process helped to broaden my understanding of the multifaceted applications of lasers and other cosmetic procedures, as well as their contraindications and potential complications.

Ultimately, my week with Dr. Cohen was extremely educational and enjoyable. As a result of this experience, I have a more comprehensive working knowledge of lasers and other light-based devices, and plan to use this knowledge in my future practice to best serve my patients in achieving their aesthetic goals. I am very grateful for the ASLMS Preceptorship Program for providing me with the opportunity to grow through Dr. Cohen’s teaching and mentorship.

Marjon Vatanchi, MD shares her experience with Mark Taylor, MD

I can’t say enough about how much I enjoyed my time shadowing Dr. Mark Taylor at The Gateway Aesthetic Institute and Laser Center. From the first day I arrived, Dr. Taylor took me aside to teach me one-on-one. He gave me an eggplant and walked me through how to achieve multiple depths with a single laser device. That was really fun. During my week there, he taught me about lasers, fillers, acne surgery, liposuction, blepharoplasty, and using tumescent anesthesia. He also discussed the business of dermatology: managing patient expectations, advertising tips, and how to grow one’s practice.

He has innovative techniques to achieving life-changing aesthetic results, especially in his acne scar patients. He combines all the techniques one can use for scarring into one visit: chemical peel, submission, lasers, and excisions. His Taylor Liberator is a neat subcision tool that while it cuts through scar tissue it also carries less risk of accidentally piercing normal skin.

Dr. Taylor also does amazing laser blepharoplasties with precision and control. During the week, I was able to watch this procedure multiple times and patients had very high satisfaction. Blepharoplasty and acne surgery are one of those procedures that are life-changing for patients. All the patients that came for follow-up were thrilled and grateful.

It was clear from the beginning that Dr. Taylor enjoys teaching, and he is very humble. From a career perspective, spending time with Dr. Taylor has had a positive impact on how I practice aesthetic medicine.  I left that week knowing I made a new mentor in dermatology. We keep in touch and he checks in to see how I’m doing in my career path.

Patrick Zito, DO, PharmD shares his experience with Robert A. Weiss, MD, FAAD

I am extremely grateful and honored for the remarkable learning and once in a life-time preceptorship experience under the direction of my mentor, Dr. Robert A. Weiss.

From the very first day I entered Maryland Dermatology Laser Skin & Vein, I was warmly welcomed by the team.  Throughout their busy schedule, they made every effort to take time to enhance my learning. The practice was equipped with over 45 energy-based devices. Throughout the experience, I learned the science behind each device and how to individualize each treatment to match the specific goals of the patient. I was very fortunate in that I was also able to learn directly from Dr. Margaret Weiss and her unique approach with personalized aesthetic modalities that take into account the natural aging process.

Drs. Weiss and their team were instrumental in teaching me their strategies for application of ablative and non-ablative laser resurfacing, lasers directed at pigment and vascular lesions, endovenous laser ablation using CoolTouch CTEV, intense pulse light, other light devices used for modulating tissue repair, body contouring with laser and cryolipolysis along with radiofrequency, intense focused ultrasound, and high intensity focused electromagnetic energy. Additionally, I was able to learn new injection techniques of neurotoxins and fillers in both men and women. I feel more confident in my approach to patient consultations, managing expectations, and utilizing different energy-based modalities as a result of the ASLMS Preceptorship experience.

While the learning experience was second to none, what I admired was the same focus everyone provided me was also given to their patients. Every patient was counseled and educated in detail of all options available, pros and cons were discussed, and they worked with the patient as a team to meet their specific goals. Everyone was very fair and ethical in their assessments and recommendations. The dedication to the betterment of patient care was their number one focus and is congruent with my reasons to practice dermatology. I truly aspire to emulate the compassionate care they provided to the patients I treat in the future. 

Seth Lofgreen, MD shares his experience with Mitchel Goldman, MD

This preceptorship experience provided by ASLMS (sponsored by The Allergan Foundation and Merz Aesthetics) was spectacular. To have this experience supplement my residency education was something that I am truly thankful for. 

During my time with Cosmetic Laser Dermatology, I was able to shadow Dr. Mitchel Goldman, Dr. Kimberly Butterwick, Dr. Douglas Wu, and Dr. Monica Boen. Having access to this many fantastic cosmetic dermatologists in one setting was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Dr. Goldman is a true fount of knowledge as a leader and innovator in the field. He has helped build a practice that is second to none with a fantastic team of assistants, fellows, and even full-time medical photographers. 

While the bread and butter of any cosmetic practice are neuromodulators and fillers, this practice really excels in pushing the box beyond the basics. You can learn not only the basics of which kind of laser to use for any individual indication but also how the specific lasers within a very specific category compare to one another. 

I loved not only Dr. Goldman’s individual teaching but also the ability to compare preferences and practices from one dermatologist to the next. You could tell that each individual decision in a patient’s plan came from both a strong foundation in the literature and also from years of experience that made each one unique. In a single week in this practice, one can experience such a broad range of cosmetic procedures including perioral and periocular ablative laser, laser rhinophymectomy, liposuction, radiofrequency microneedling, skin tightening, and sclerotherapy. All this combined with a high frequency of Fitzpatrick skin type III-IV patients (prone to procedural hyperpigmentation) made for an overall very rich experience. 

Again, I am truly thankful for the funding that made this possible, as well as Dr. Goldman’s willingness to invest back into the future of procedural dermatology. I highly recommend this experience to other residents who really want to open their eyes to what is possible within cosmetic dermatology. 

Juthika Thakur, MD, MBA shares her experience with Eric Bernstein, MD, MSE

I feel privileged and humbled that I had the opportunity to spend one week with Dr. Eric Bernstein in Ardmore, PA at the Main Line Center for Laser Surgery. During my week, I spent time learning about the principles of laser therapy, and how they apply to patients with vascular malformations, severe acne scarring, and unwanted tattoos. Dr. Bernstein was an effective teacher often asking questions to myself or the fellow to check-in and make sure we understood the fundamental principles of treatment we were proposing. The devices are high-energy based modalities that can harm your patient and yourself if used incorrectly. The importance of safety and mitigating risk to myself and the patient was emphasized to us consistently. He reviewed tips and pearls on safety, unique applications of laser devices, and managing expectations that I will carry with me into my future practice. Most impressively, Dr. Bernstein was able to teach us and the patient about the proposed treatment plan using the Socratic method effectively. What struck me most during my time with Dr. Bernstein was not only his excellent clinical acumen, but his humor and compassion showed towards his patients, staff, and the learners in his clinic.

I had exposure to other cosmetic procedures with Dr. Kachiu Lee which was an added (and unexpected) bonus! Her ability to simplify complicated concepts with such ease underscored her expertise in cosmetic dermatology.

I highly recommend this preceptorship and encourage all residents, even if they have exposure to laser devices in their residency program, to expand their knowledge by learning from the master clinicians that we have been lucky to work with. Thank you ASLMS, Dr. Lee and Dr. Bernstein for this opportunity.

Marcus Tan, MD shares his experience with Mitchel Goldman, MD 

I am sincerely grateful to the ASLMS Preceptorship Program for the opportunity to participate in a preceptorship with Dr. Goldman and his team at Cosmetic Laser Dermatology in La Jolla, California.

Coming from a residency program with a strong focus on medical and surgical dermatology but limited exposure to energy-based devices, this preceptorship was an eye-opening learning experience. Dr. Goldman’s practice boasts an impressive array of more than 50 energy-based devices. I witnessed the use of multiple lasers and other energy-based devices, often in conjunction to achieve superior results, for the treatment port-wine stains, hypertrophic scars and keloids, facial telangiectasia and hyperpigmentation, radiation tattoo removals, amongst many other conditions. Dr. Goldman also has a strong interest in phlebology, and I was able to observe the treatment of severe varicose veins with endovascular thermal ablation followed by phlebectomy. Some of these concepts and techniques are rarely found in textbooks or published literature, which only serves to demonstrate the level of expertise that Dr. Goldman and his team of dermatologists possess.

In every patient encounter, Dr. Goldman always emphasized the importance of accurate patient evaluation, managing expectations, proper techniques, and post-procedural counseling and care. He also made sure to impart at least one learning point from every encounter, despite how busy his schedule was. I am grateful to be able to spend some time with Drs. Boen, Butterwick, Fabi, Groff and Wu as well, and learned unique sets of skills from each of these world experts.

Overall, this preceptorship experience with Dr. Goldman and his team has made me a more knowledgeable resident and expanded my armamentarium of treatment options to include energy-based devices for the various dermatologic conditions that I encounter daily. I also feel more confident in managing patient expectations and counseling them on various procedures. This experience has also inspired me to incorporate a fraction of these energy-based devices into my future practice.

To Dr. Goldman and everyone at Cosmetic Laser Dermatology, thank you for an unforgettable two weeks. I felt like a part of the team from the moment I stepped into the office and really enjoyed learning from everyone.

Marc Mitton, DO shares his experience with Mark Taylor, MD

Working with Dr. Taylor has been an eye-opening experience.  He owns a large medical, surgical, and cosmeceutical dermatology practice with over 60 lasers as well as several other devices.  He also precepts as the main attending for an ASDS cosmetic dermatology fellowship.  During my week with him, Dr. Taylor and his fellow, Dr. McClean, performed several procedures that enhanced my training including full laser resurfacing, upper and lower blepharoplasty, acne scar revision, light facials, pico facials, tattoo removal, hair removal, as well as several other modalities.

Dr. Taylor’s knowledge of lasers and other devices was that of a master.  He has dedicated years of his life to studying the basic science and practical use of these machines and his patients reap the benefits.  Since 1984, when he decided he would become a laser expert, he has been building both his knowledge and expertise as well as his exquisite practice.  Each time a new laser was used during our week together, he was able to explain what the laser was, important settings and why he would adjust them, and other options he could consider for treatment and the pros and cons of each.  He took time out of his day to make sure I had a good experience.  He gave this same focus to his patients.  Each patient was given his full attention and knew all of their options and the pros and cons of each before the end of the visit.  He was fair and ethical in his assessments and recommendations.  He provided an excellent patient experience.

Before this preceptorship experience, I had used IPL, PDL, and CO2.  I had studied the theory and basic practice of other lasers.  While I learned several things during my week with Dr. Taylor, one important fact I learned was that the knowledge required to successfully run a laser-based practice is vast and requires years of training and practice.  It is no easy feat to meet a patient, discuss their needs, and determine the laser, settings, and the likely number of treatments that will best fit the situation.  

I believe this experience will enhance my general dermatology knowledge and practice as well as my understanding of other treatment modalities available.  There was a patient that came to the practice who wanted to have some of his thickened and scaly skin on his face, neck and chest repaired.  After examining him, the conclusion was reached that he had a significant amount of sun damage as well as a large number of actinic keratoses.  In my training, I have had several discussions with patients on the treatment options for actinic keratoses.  This typically includes liquid nitrogen, topical chemotherapy agents, and blue or red-light treatment.  However, Dr. Taylor expanded on this to include several resurfacing lasers. The cost, risks and benefits, recovery time, number of actinic keratoses treated, as well as after-treatment care required were all discussed.  Patients at many general dermatology offices I have worked at often choose one of the first three options or no treatment. However, the shorter, though more intense, recovery time combined with the anti-aging effects led this patient to choose laser resurfacing.  Beyond this one patient, I was introduced to several new treatment options for conditions often seen by a general dermatologist including acne, sebaceous hyperplasia, and irritated seborrheic keratoses.

Beyond the new treatment modalities mentioned above, I was also introduced to a new practice paradigm; cash-based practice.  A large part of dermatology is learning how to work with local and regional insurance companies and what they will and will not cover.  This was non-existent at Dr. Taylor’s practice.  He does not accept insurance and all visits have a cash value assigned to them, including general dermatology visits.  While he had monthly specials on many of his services, patients were willing to pay his prices in order to avoid working with insurance companies and paying for their services.  They knew the price they would pay upfront and appreciated the open nature of the practice.  While I don’t believe this would work for every, or even most offices, it has been very successful for Dr. Taylor and was interesting to learn about.  

Overall, this week has been one of the most enlightening weeks of my residency.  My knowledge of lasers and devices, understanding of treatment modalities and ability to work well with a more cosmetic-minded patient population was deeply enhanced.  Dr. Taylor was excellent to work with.  The ASLMS preceptorship program has been a great opportunity to learn more about the amazing field of dermatology and will continue to enhance my practice for years to come as I apply the things I have learned.

The preceptorship program under the direction of my mentor, Dr. Mathew M. Avram, was a once-in-a-lifetime experience! The lessons that I learned from Dr. Avram have become ingrained within my career as a physician and an aspiring leader in dermatology. From the moment I entered the MGH Dermatology Laser and Cosmetic Center, I sensed the essence of laser innovation and excellence in patient care.

With a sincere appreciation for every device used, Dr. Avram memorably described the intriguing history behind these complex devices, which enabled me to appreciate their intricacies even more. I became even more enthusiastic and motivated to pursue research in laser innovation after learning about new technologies that are on the brink of becoming mainstream. It was truly a privilege to be at the forefront of the legacy that changed the track of medicine.

I hope to emulate Dr. Avram, a true mensch, who elegantly made patients feel comfortable in their own skin and improved their quality of life. Additionally, Dr. Avram taught me many valuable lessons, including the importance of addressing expectations during the patient consultation, techniques on how to avoid potential adverse events from treatments, and how to give back to the community. I sincerely admire Dr. Avram’s dedicated commitment to patient care, education, research, and advocacy, and strive to follow in his footsteps.

I could not be more appreciative of the time that Dr. Avram and the rest of the faculty and staff spent in mentoring me during my time in Boston. Thank you to the ASLMS, Allergan, and Merz for providing this opportunity!

The week I spent with Dr. Gerald Goldberg was amazing!

As soon as we agreed on the timing of my preceptorship, Dr. Goldberg recruited and scheduled amazing cases for the whole week. When I arrived at his office, I was welcomed by him and his awesome staff.

I was genuinely surprised by the cases he lined up for the week, I saw him treat extensive port wine stains, hemangiomas, use fully ablative and fractional resurfacing, sclerotherapy, injectables and many other treatments. He would explain his rationale behind every treatment and discusses other possible options. In addition to that, during lunchtime, we spent an hour daily discussing various topics in lasers and cosmetics, related to cases seen on that day.

I consider myself lucky to have such an opportunity to spend a week learning from Dr. Goldberg. I’m also thankful for ASLMS to have facilitated this with the preceptorship program and would definitely recommend it!

The two weeks I spent with Dr. Friedman were invaluable and surpassed my expectations in every way. As a resident pursuing a fellowship and eventual career in cosmetic dermatology, I was particularly invested in learning as much as possible during my preceptorship. Reflecting back on those two weeks, I learned far more than I imagined. Beyond providing me with an enriching education in laser medicine and cosmetics, Dr. Friedman also offered an education on how to be a truly exceptional physician, and it is for that that I am even more thankful.

Beginning on my first day at the practice, I was seamlessly integrated into the medical team and saw every patient on Dr. Friedman’s schedule, which yielded a diverse exposure to cosmetic patients of all kinds. During initial consultations, I learned how to create a thorough, personalized and synergistic plan for a patient’s needs in both the short and long-term. Over time, I began to anticipate questions and concerns with respect to particular treatments and grew more confident in answering them. Though residency has taught me the basics of chromophores and the lasers best suited for each, never before was I able to understand the
nuances of choosing one laser over another with respect to indication, skin type, risk factors, available downtime and cost. As my preceptorship progressed, I began to understand other technologies could be used in conjunction to optimize cosmetic outcome and for what patients non-laser alternatives were the more appropriate initial choice. Over time, I also expanded upon my knowledge of topical therapies and learned how to optimize them in a way that can compliment in-office treatments and minimize potential complications.

Conversely, procedure appointments offered a different and equally valuable learning experience. I was exposed to injectable techniques and styles with which I was unfamiliar and also to new technologies I had never seen. While uncommon, I saw complications, both expected and unexpected, and witnessed how best to approach and address them. For those patients who presented for routine maintenance, I learned how to recognize when a treatment plan should be tailored with increasing age and the changes in skin and facial architecture that accompany it.

Above everything, however, the most valuable part of my experience was something I had not expected, and that was my ability to witness Dr. Friedman’s interactions with patients. No matter how behind he was, or how “difficult” the interaction may have been classified, every patient was given as much time as necessary to answer all questions, address all fears and review all treatment options. This included discussion of mechanisms, purpose, cost and what to expect during treatment, during recovery and long-term. In the early morning and with the last patient of the day, his attention was unwavering, as was his compassion, dedication and kindness. If a patient was anxious or seemed apprehensive, his recommendation was always to start small and slow. He always did what he genuinely felt was best for the patient, without consideration to profit. This is not always the case, particularly in a field as lucrative as cosmetic dermatology, and to see it was inspiring and a profound example of the kind of physician I hope to emulate in my future practice.

To Dr. Friedman and everyone at the Dermatology & Laser Surgery Center, thank you for an incredible two weeks. I felt so welcomed, cared for and appreciated in such a short amount of time. The experience was fruitful, so much fun and one I am unlikely to forget.

I am extremely grateful for the remarkable preceptorship experience at Moy, Fincher, Chipps Facial Plastic / Dermatology in Los Angeles. The amount of new procedures, techniques, and practical pearls I obtained in only a week speaks volumes regarding their experience and the extraordinary practice they have established. From the start, I was warmly welcomed by their team and they made every effort to take time between clinic visits in a busy schedule to enhance my learning.

Working with the different mentors, I was able to observe each of their approaches to the cosmetic consultation and how to employ evidence-based technologies and techniques to match the patient’s desired outcomes and goals. Throughout the week, I learned their strategies for ablative and non-ablative laser resurfacing, applications of vascular and pigment-specific lasers, and their use of radiofrequency devices for targeted skin tightening. I also learned new approaches to neuromodulation and filler technique, platelet rich plasma applications, liposuction, and more advanced facial cosmetic surgeries, including neck lifts. Most importantly, I learned about the science behind the devices and surgical approaches, and how to customize each treatment to match the patient’s specific goals.

As a result of this ASLMS Preceptorship experience, I feel more confident with my approach to the patient consultation, how to manage expectations for each of these treatment approaches, and how to combine therapies and enhance results. Drs. Moy, Fincher, and Chipps are incredibly gifted dermatologists and teachers, and I hope to one day achieve the same level of excellence that they bring to every patient encounter. Their commitment and dedication to teaching and education is inspiring, and the compassionate care they provide is something I hope to emulate.

I am grateful to the ASLMS Preceptorship program and the sponsors for this invaluable opportunity. Moreover, I am indebted to Drs. Moy, Fincher, and Chipps for welcoming me with open arms to their clinic and striving to make my time there the most educational experience possible. Their mentorship and friendship is something I will value throughout my career. The experience far exceeded my every expectation, and I strongly recommend the ASLMS Preceptorship program to any resident seeking to enhance their knowledge of laser and light-based energy devices and broaden their scope of cosmetic procedures in an immersive setting. I left the preceptorship experience with newfound excitement to employ a number of these devices and techniques in my practice to enhance patient outcomes.

I was chosen to participate in a week-long preceptorship under Dr. Kristen Kelly at the University of California Irvine through ASLMS, which I completed in the summer of 2019 during my final year of dermatology residency. I observed the care of adult and pediatric patients with various conditions during the preceptorship, amongst them port wine birthmarks, hypertrichosis, unwanted tattoos, rosacea, telangiectasias, and symptomatic scars. The setting included an ambulatory dermatology clinic and a dedicated outpatient laser center.

During the preceptorship, Dr. Kelly reviewed with me the scientific basis, indications, and precautions for various lasers and other light-emitting devices commonly used in dermatology, including pulsed dye laser, potassium titanyl phosphate (KTP), alexandrite, Fraxel Dual wavelength, intense pulsed light, and various Q-switched lasers. Some of the takeaway points Dr. Kelly emphasized include performing one or a few test spots on patients prior to full treatment, using topical corticosteroids judiciously to blunt the skin’s inflammatory response after certain treatments, avoiding non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications and aspirin a week prior to treatment with pulsed dye laser. She also emphasized the importance of a thorough pre-treatment consultation and review of patient/parent goals.

Dr. Kelly herself modeled compassionate, thorough, and knowledgeable patient care. I was struck by her ability to build rapport with patients/parents while efficiently addressing the questions and problems for which they had presented to her. Since Dr. Kelly is a faculty member at the University of California Irvine, I was lucky enough to participate in the departmental grand rounds that included live patient viewing and a spirited and thoroughly enjoyable discussion; resident didactic sessions; and the department’s visiting professor series. I was also able to interact with several of the department’s faculty members, including Dr. Christopher Zachary and Dr. Patrick Lee.

I consider my experience during the ASLMS preceptorship a valuable portion of my dermatology training. I was able to learn from two of the thought leaders in laser medicine and surgery – Dr. Kristen Kelly and Dr. Christopher Zachary, who together wrote one of the standard textbook chapters on laser devices that nearly all dermatology residents read – while spending a week in a collegial environment and upper echelon department of dermatology. I will encourage other resident colleagues and future mentees to consider pursuing an ASLMS preceptorship.

I am very grateful and honored to be given the opportunity to spend a week learning from Dr. Mark Taylor through the ASLMS preceptorship program. During my preceptorship, I was exposed to a variety of applications of various laser and light-based devices in different dermatological conditions including scar reconstruction, treatments of vascular lesions such as port wine stains, facial rejuvenation, body contouring, and tattoo removal. I was able to see patients in all stages from post-treatment and learn about the recovery process of the different types of treatments. His ASDS Cosmetic Dermatologic Surgery fellows, physician assistant, nurses and medical assistants were a wealth of knowledge in the aesthetic field and were always willing to answer the many questions that I had throughout my preceptorship. As a result, after my preceptorship, I am more comfortable discussing different therapeutic modalities with my patients, including expectations, pros and cons of each treatment, and recovery time. I am also more confident in combining different laser wavelengths, medical and procedural treatments in treating cutaneous conditions. The ASLMS preceptorship fills an educational gap in residency by exposing us residents to procedures that we may otherwise not have access to.

I had the wonderful opportunity to learn from Dr. Sabrina Fabi as a part of the ASLMS preceptorship program. Under her mentorship, I was able to observe and learn about many of the latest technologies offered in cosmetic dermatology. 

While in her office I learned expert techniques for common cosmetic procedures while also being exposed to new procedures and products that I was less familiar with. I was able to observe a variety of advanced neurotoxins and filler injection techniques that I hope to use in my future practice. I also was able to see a panel of lasers and light emitting devices used for the treatment of vascular or pigmented lesions. In addition, I observed the use of a Q-switch laser used for tattoo removal, which is a laser that is unavailable at my home training program and a Fraxel re:store laser for scar revision. 

A valuable aspect of the rotation was observing how Dr. Fabi assesses patients and counsels them on the risks and benefits of each cosmetic procedure. I learned a tremendous amount from seeing her interact with patients and build trust and rapport prior to deciding on a treatment plan.

In addition to lasers, filler, and neurotoxins I was also able to see fat augmenting procedures such as kybella, liposuction, and skin tightening procedures such as Thermi, thermage, and ultherapy. I was able to see one patient undergo a fully ablative fractional CO2 laser treatment and then see her in follow-up throughout the week allowing me to observe the healing process. This experience will allow me to better counsel patients on what they may expect from more invasive cosmetic surgical procedures such as ablative laser treatments. 

Overall I feel very fortunate to have been a part of this preceptorship program as it exposed me to procedures that I would otherwise not have seen as a part of my residency training. This opportunity served as an invaluable experience that will benefit my future practice greatly and will allow me to better counsel patients on what options they may have in the consideration of cosmetic procedures.

From the moment I stepped into Dr. Tina Alster’s practice at the Washington Institute of Dermatologic Laser Surgery, I knew I had encountered something special. Right from the support staff to the providers, everyone was very welcoming and excited to have me. The practice itself is very impressive and is a testament to the vision and hard work of Dr. Alster. During my ASLMS preceptorship, I was able to observe Dr. Alster and Dr. Rebecca Kazin perform numerous procedures including the use of injectables – both neurotoxins and dermal fillers. The ability to observe and learn first-hand from master injectors was invaluable.

I was also able to observe the use of a wide variety of devices and technologies such as ablative and non-ablative resurfacing lasers, pico-lasers, vascular lasers, platelet rich plasma and microneedling. Dr. Alster’s practice boasts an impressive array of devices using cryolipolysis and intense focused ultrasound to help with minimally invasive fat reduction and body contouring. The ability to observe the use of these devices, understand their applications as well as view the post-treatment results was invaluable. Dr. Alster always explained the reasons behind choosing the specific treatment plan for her patients as well as the technical aspects of every procedure she performed. This was extremely helpful as I will be able to incorporate this knowledge to provide personalized treatment options for my patients in the future.

Perhaps the most important aspect of my ASLMS preceptorship experience was the ability to connect and share ideas with leaders in the field. Dr. Alster’s enthusiasm and sincere commitment to education were very evident. Dr. Alster balances running a busy practice, seeing patients, conducting research and contributing to the local community. In spite of her busy schedule, she took the time to meet with me and impart both clinical and life pearls which will be extremely helpful as I progress in my career.

I have met numerous physicians across the country through various stages of my training, I know that finding true role models who are not only successful but also willing to advise and mentor the next generation is rare. I can safely say that Dr. Alster is that rare, impressive physician who genuinely cares about her patients and has a passion for mentorship. I feel very fortunate to have had the opportunity to meet such an inspirational figure. I know that my time spent with her has only strengthened my excitement and passion for the field. As I start my own career, I hope to emulate her both professionally as a leader in the field and personally as a compassionate and generous person. I am extremely grateful to the ASLMS for providing me with this unique experience and hope to pay this forward in the future.

It was a true privilege to have the opportunity to participate in a preceptorship with Dr. Mitchel Goldman at Cosmetic Laser Dermatology. My rotation was an eye-opening and career changing experience! From day one, Dr. Goldman treated me as a colleague and shared his invaluable knowledge and experiences with me. I was incredibly impressed to see that his centre owned over 45 unique lasers, and countless other energy-based devices!

Within my laser-specific learning, I strengthened my knowledge of managing common aesthetic concerns and also observed innovative management of unique presenting concerns, such as the pico laser for actinic lichen planus. My learning extended beyond laser devices to neurotoxins and fillers, fat reduction management, and cosmeceuticals.

However, perhaps the most valuable learning during my experience was observing Dr. Goldman’s refined art of caring for his patients. I witnessed how his patients’ concerns were so effortlessly and comprehensively addressed through the assessment and management process by himself and his team. He integrated his vast knowledge and experiences with his engaging interpersonal intuitions to understand and care for his patients. His skillful use of adjuvant technological tools also helped to clearly explain and teach patients about their skin health.

His office team was also a pleasure to learn from and work with. During my preceptorship, I also had the privilege of learning from Drs. Butterwick and Fabi, in addition to his two outstanding clinical fellows, Drs. Kollipara and Hoss!

Overall, I had a phenomenal, unforgettable experience and will always be thankful for this preceptorship for fueling my passion for laser medicine and aesthetic care of patients!

My ASLMS preceptorship with Dr. Tina Alster at the Washington Institute of Dermatologic Laser Surgery was an unparalleled learning experience. The preceptorship offered an incredible opportunity during my residency to gain first-hand exposure to a myriad of cutting edge treatment modalities.  I was able to observe Dr. Alster in action with devices I had previously only read about in textbooks and journal articles, allowing me to better understand the associated nuances. From ablative and non-ablative laser resurfacing, to vascular and pigment lasers, to microneedling and platelet rich plasma, to cryolipolysis and intense focused ultrasound - Dr. Alster had it all! And above all, she was genuinely interested and invested in my educational experience.

From the moment I stepped foot into her office, her commitment to teaching and mentorship was evident. Despite her busy schedule, she always took the time to teach, both throughout the patient encounter as well as in between patients. She explained in detail the technicalities of each injection or procedure she performed, the medical and practical reason for her choice, and the relevant data.  It was truly valuable to see how Dr. Alster counseled her patients both pre- and post-procedure and used her expertise and knowledge to create individualized treatment plans. For every patient, there was always a teaching point. During the one week I was there, I was able to see a wide range of patients, from infants to older adults. I even had the opportunity to see some of the same patients in follow-up visits, allowing me to learn about the healing process first hand.

It was an inspiration to see Dr. Alster not only deliver optimal patient care, but also run a successful practice and balance research, product development, administrative duties, and leadership roles in various local and international societies.  Her energy and passion is contagious and she truly is a role model. I am so grateful to both Dr. Alster and the ASLMS for this incredible opportunity and hope to pay it forward one day. This experience has enabled my further development as a dermatologist and will ultimately benefit my patients. I look forward to continuing to learn and incorporate novel therapies into my future practice.

It was an absolute pleasure spending a week with Dr. Bernstein and his associate Dr. Bloom. I will always remember the experience fondly as one of the highlights of my residency training and would recommend the experience to every resident in the country seeking to enhance their knowledge of laser technology and cosmetic procedures. Dr. Bernstein is a true legend and founder in the field and has an incomparable breadth of knowledge to share. Not only was I able to observe him directly treating patients with PDL, ND-YAG, Fraxel, & radiofrequency micro-needling but Dr. Bernstein took time out of his busy day to give me a two-hour lecture on the science behind laser technology, allowed me to observe his work in clinical research and product development, and took every patient experience as a learning opportunity to teach me a clinical pearl or two. Most importantly, he served as a prime example of the physician I hope to become one day: not only clinically excellent but also friendly & amicable towards his patients and staff making it a pleasure to come to work daily!

My ASLMS preceptorship with Dr. Mitchel Goldman at Cosmetic Laser Dermatology in San Diego was a life changing unparalleled learning experience in my residency training. Although I come from a residency program with a fairly robust training in aesthetic medicine and surgery, this week-long preceptorship allowed me to better understand the nuances between treatment modalities and observe new devices that I had only seen in the literature prior to this immersive experience.

From the beginning of the rotation, I was warmly welcomed into this practice as a training physician. I was able to observe a myriad of different procedures such as microliposuction, ablative and non-ablative laser resurfacing, vascular and pigmented lesion lasers, neuromodulator and filler technique, microneedling with radiofrequency, Ultherapy, and more. I was present for patient follow up appointments as well and able to see the evolution of the healing process with more aggressive laser surgery.

Each day was unique and I had the opportunity to follow multiple physicians in the practice to observe their techniques. Each physician took significant time from their daily schedule to teach me about laser physics, injectable techniques, anatomical landmarks and much more. Given the sheer volume of lasers and other energy based devices as well as two fully functional operating rooms, I was able to observe completely new procedures each day of the rotation.

One of the most influential parts of this preceptorship was observing Drs. Goldman, Butterwick, Groff, Fabi, Wu, and Boen during their cosmetic consults with new patients. Each of these physicians are experts in the field and have a vast understanding of the different energy based treatment modalities and the literature supporting the effectiveness of any given procedure. They are able to assimilate this knowledge into their cosmetic consults, and choose the ideal procedure(s) to fit the patient’s expectations and treatment goals.

This week was an incredible learning experience in a well-established and finely tuned cosmetic and procedural dermatology practice.  I will be forever grateful to Dr. Goldman for allowing me to visit and observe in the practice. It is my goal to train to be a physician of the same caliber, competence, and experience as all of the physicians at Cosmetic Laser Dermatology. I am humbled and appreciative that ASLMS has made this preceptorship possible for myself and other aspiring residents.

During my ASLMS preceptorship, I had the pleasure of working with Dr. Joel Cohen at AboutSkin Dermatology. He specializes in Mohs micrographic surgery, aesthetic dermatology and laser medicine. My 3-week preceptorship was inspiring and renewed my interest in micrographic surgery and laser medicine. Dr. Cohen emulated the successful practice I hope to have one day – blending first-class clinical care with a dedication to academic procedural dermatology. I observed many Mohs cases with Dr. Cohen, including complex constructions. Dr. Cohen’s approach to preoperative consultations demonstrated genuine care for his patients, which reflected in the patient’s comfort on their surgical day.  We often discussed and reviewed the literature related to many of the interventions he discussed with patients. This academic interest mirrored my own desire to achieve this mastery of the current evidence. Further, it showed the importance of understanding the unique medical and social background of the patient to best plan their surgery. During our Mohs surgery days, he offered insights on proper surgical technique and ensuring standardization within reviewing specimens. It was great to see a dedication to the ‘little things’ that make a procedure and reconstruction as successful as possible. As reconstruction of surgical defects is a key interest, I also enjoyed seeing the systematic approach to preforming simple and complex reconstructions. The meticulous attention to counseling and post-operative wound care was particularly apparent. I will take many of these lessons forward. Lastly, I am grateful for the collaboration of his ENT and Oculoplastics colleagues who played a role in my learning – teaching me nuances of surgical skills in those specialty areas that will assist me in my future.

Dr. Cohen had many aesthetic patients over my preceptorship. He gave the same care to validating their concerns and thoroughly addressing both short and long-term plans for facial rejuvenation. I was able to witness current techniques for botulinum toxin, filler, laser treatment of pigmented lesions and laser resurfacing.  Given my limited experience with these modalities, it was helpful to see Dr. Cohen's approach to these cases. I was able to learn more about the practical theory behind each of these treatments to gain new appreciation for their use. My interest in laser resurfacing for advanced photoaging and incorporating into dermatologic surgery applications only grew during my time at AboutSkin. This led to reviewing new applications for combining laser with topical platelet rich plasma and prostaglandins. I feel more confident when discussing aesthetic treatments. I know have gained further competence in this area as a result of this preceptorship.

Overall, I am grateful to have had the chance to participate in the ASLMS preceptorship. I had diverse exposure to many aspects of procedural dermatology. Dr. Cohen’s mentorship has been invaluable. I will always remember his dedication to his patients as well as moving the field forward through academic research. I learned many lessons over my short time with him. I hope to build on them as I pursue a fellowship in Mohs surgery and develop my career in procedural dermatology.

My ASLMS Preceptorship with Dr. Mitchel Goldman was a unique and cherishable experience which provided exposure to energy-based devices. With residency graduation months away, there were still procedures that I had only read about but had hoped to observe in person prior to becoming a practicing physician. The opportunity to fill these knowledge gaps at Cosmetic Laser Dermatology in San Diego was one I could not pass up.

From day one I was immersed into Dr. Goldman’s very busy but fine-tuned practice. The sheer number of devices ensured that I would learn something new every day. I discovered nuances in using intense pulsed light, pulsed dye laser, and carbon dioxide ablative laser, devices which I was well-accustomed to during residency training but without a full appreciation of their versatility until now. I was also thrilled to be able to observe many additional lasers and devices that I had not previously seen before during my training. By the end of my two-week preceptorship, I had witnessed a variety of procedures including multi-modality facial rejuvenation, ablative and non-ablative resurfacing, microliposuction, Ultherapy, Thermage, Infini radiofrequency ablation, Coolsculpting, and sclerotherapy. I was also able to evaluate the post-procedure results, allowing me to affirm the profound role these devices play in aesthetic medicine.

The most invaluable aspect of the preceptorship was the opportunity to observe the patient care delivered by Drs. Goldman, Butterwick, Groff, Fabi, and Wu. As experts in the field of aesthetic medicine, their pearls of wisdom offered a learning experience not found in any textbook. They took time to explain important concepts and provided practical tips that will be useful in my future career. The daily enthusiasm that each of them provided is an inspiration to me as a young physician and serves as a model to follow as I continue to treat and counsel patients.

These two weeks ultimately gave me an excitement for the use of energy-based technologies in aesthetic medicine and surgery. I would recommend the ASLMS Preceptorship program without hesitation to any individual seeking an immersive experience in this new and quickly progressive field. I have no doubt that my career will be enhanced from the preceptorship and am truly thankful for ASLMS for making this experience possible.

My preceptorship with Dr. Mark Taylor was awesome. Reading a textbook simply can't compare to learning directly from an expert. There are certain principles regarding lasers that I have had a hard time grasping by studying. After seeing these principles in action over a week with Dr. Taylor, it has really started to come together for me. I can see how having these modalities in my arsenal would allow me to get creative with the “art of medicine” and offer more of my patients effective treatment options. In fact, there were a handful of patients who came in with conditions that I didn't have any effective treatment options for, but because of Dr. Taylor’s extensive collection of lasers and his mastery of their dynamics, we came up with effective, targeted treatments.

I was interested to see that Dr. Taylor rarely uses default settings when using lasers. He would modify this or that setting and then teach us how it would optimize the treatment or minimize risk of a particular side effect. Once I started to grasp these concepts, it was fun to predict which settings he would use and start to come up with treatment plans in my head.

I appreciated his willingness to spend time teaching. When we had free time, we would choose a topic and discuss and ask questions until the next patient came. My favorite hands-on learning was our ablative resurfacing of…an eggplant. Dr. Davis (Dr. Taylor’s fellow) and I used a 2940 nm Er:YAG to practice our technique while Dr. Taylor gave us tips. We modified one setting at a time to see how it affected the outcome. For example, we saw firsthand how changing the pulse duration altered the interplay between vaporization and heating. We then discussed how we could utilize these principles to treat epidermal lesions in which clean vaporization was desired versus deeper lesions in which heating may help us to achieve hemostasis (Note: in the spirit of sustainability, this eggplant was taken home and prepared for dinner).

I would highly recommend this preceptorship to residents hoping to use lasers and other energy-based modalities in their practice. Again, there’s simply no better way to learn these principles than to immerse yourself and learn directly from the best in the business. One of the most important things I learned was that this is a complex field with intricacies, nuances, and real risks to the patient if we haven’t mastered the principles behind these powerful devices. I learned how to use them more effectively, but I also learned about important risks and pitfalls that will allow me to treat with confidence and minimize risk to my patients.

My ASLMS Preceptorship experience with Dr. Sabrina Fabi at Cosmetic Laser Dermatology in San Diego was outstanding. Having minimal exposure to various cosmetics procedures in residency, my week-long experience was truly eye-opening. Not only did I get to see new techniques in injectables and sclerotherapy, but I was opened to a new world of skin tightening, body contouring, and laser therapies. While it was wonderful to see these procedures be performed by the expert hands of Dr. Fabi, what was truly valuable was to see how she counseled her patients during a consultation and to see her follow-up patients with their amazing results. The preceptorship experience has allowed me to take better care of my future patients by learning what further options are available and how to advise them on these modalities. The opportunity to observe and learn under an expert in the field like Dr. Fabi was a unique and coveted opportunity that I will always cherish. The ASLMS preceptorship helped enable the ongoing growth of my passion for the field and further my development as a dermatologist.

During my week-long preceptorship at Moy-Fincher-Chipps Dermatology in Beverly Hills, I actually got to spend time with several dermatologists and see the workings of a busy, successful medical and cosmetic practice. About to finish residency and join a small private practice, I have several valuable takeaways from this experience. 

With Dr. Moy, I got the perspective of a seasoned dermatologist who maintains efficiency in a busy schedule. Performing daily fractional ablative resurfacing cases intermixed with routine follow-ups and Mohs cases, Dr. Moy showed me how to balance individual patient care while navigating a varied daily schedule. By seeing him perform a neck lift and several resurfacings, I learned how to do nerve blocks, liposuction, and tumescent anesthesia in the office setting. And in seeing a wide variety of devices, I got a better sense of what devices I might want to use in my own practice. While I do not anticipate doing neck lifts (even though he made it seem straightforward), Dr. Moy’s frequent employment of the Erbium fractional laser, its safety for many skin types, and its short downtime with good results are sufficiently convincing me to obtain one as my first device.

Dr. Chipps and Dr. Herrmann also did many procedural cases, including Mohs, PDL, radiofrequency skin tightening, blepharoplasty, and canthopexy. Coming from a small residency program, I had not even conceptualized some of these procedures as under the purview of a dermatologist. But certainly the laser and radiofrequency devices I would feel more comfortable using, especially with the tips and tricks they gave me along the way. It really is amazing to see clinical outcomes after different laser treatments, even with low energy settings, and the volume of cosmetic patients in the practice absolutely helped me get an appreciation for achievable results.

Overall, being able to see expert use of different devices and the organization of a big, busy practice in LA will help me start my career with more awareness and confidence. I greatly appreciate the experience and will surely refer to it as I encounter clinical and managerial dilemmas in New York.

Recently, I had the pleasure of immersing myself into an eight day preceptorship with one of procedural dermatology’s finest:  Dr Carolyn Jacob.  I found her to be extremely knowledgeable about current energy and light-based devices, but more importantly, she constantly seeks to further her expertise and understanding of new applications for these devices and better serve her patients with emerging technologies. Dr. Jacob uses a myriad of techniques with finely honed expertise in her daily practice and performs dozens of injectable procedures throughout the day as well.

Dr. Jacob’s commitment to teaching and education was obvious within only minutes of our first encounter. While some physicians may choose to simply allow a resident to shadow as a bystander, observing one procedure after the next, this was certainly not the case with Dr. Jacob. She explained in detail the technical matters of each injection or procedure she performed, the medical and practical reason for her choice, and the relevant science or research data for every single patient encounter. Clearly, she is a gifted teacher as well as physician.

Dr. Jacob’s collaborative practice is a model for those of us at the cusp of our professional life.  I learned so much more from her than how to use a multimodal approach to resurface the skin, considerations for engaging in a clinical trial, or ways to help patients align their inner and outer aesthetic desires. Dr. Jacob founded her current practice nearly two decades ago, and the office has more than tripled in size since that time. She balances patient care, research investigations, and administrative duties seamlessly, and it is very apparent that the entire staff respects her. It is important as residents to not only learn the fundamentals of medical and procedural dermatology, but also to develop professional practice habits that will benefit us and our patients moving forward. The opportunity to experience such an efficiently run practice that fosters high morale and is embedded within a positive work climate was invaluable to my overall residency education.

I would highly recommend that any resident who is interested in procedural dermatology spend time with Dr. Carolyn Jacob.  I admire her greatly and learned so much that will benefit my future patients.

Thank you to the ASLMS for the opportunity of a lifetime and unforgettable preceptorship with Dr. Tina Alster.  Prior to this preceptorship, I felt truly overwhelmed and intimidated by the complexity of laser devices.  How would I know which (of the hundreds of) laser devices would be optimal for my patient?  How would I know which (of the myriad of) settings would be safe, but efficacious, for my patient? Dr. Alster effortlessly broke down these convoluted concepts into bite-sized, straightforward bits of knowledge for me to more easily digest. She shared with me her most commonly employed laser “recipes," not only a term she used to describe her favorite laser settings, but also one that somehow made the topic less daunting for me.

During my week, I was fortunate enough to see some of Dr. Alster’s more complicated patients with conditions ranging from extensive and disfiguring facial vascular malformations to severe hypertrophic scarring secondary to ablative laser therapy performed elsewhere. Many were overcome with emotion at their visits, detailing the incredible improvements experienced under Dr. Alster’s care after failing years of treatment on the outside.  I was moved and inspired by Dr. Alster’s ability to meaningfully transform so many lives with her expertise, passion, and empathetic nature.

Dr. Alster is incomparable as a mentor, not only for her laser expertise and knowledge, but also for her mentorship style.  From the second we stepped into her office to the moment we left at the end of the day, there was not a lost teaching opportunity.  Dr. Alster continuously imparted tips and pearls to us throughout each patient interaction, as well as between cases.  She frequently tested our retention of the information to reinforce critical concepts.  My pocket notebook was full of fundamental practical pearls after just one week!  Moreover, Dr. Alster’s effervescence and enthusiasm for her work were contagious; her energy made learning such a treat.

What struck me most during my ASLMS preceptorship, however, was Dr. Alster’s sincere kindness and compassion – not only for her patients, but also for her mentees.  As a world expert in laser devices and cosmetic dermatology, Dr. Alster could not have been a more humble, down-to-earth person.  She made each and every one of her mentees feel like he/she was the only one in the room.  She was genuinely interested in us, even on a personal level - inquiring about our extracurricular plans in the city and offering recommendations. 

I am incredibly grateful to both Dr. Alster and the ASLMS for this unbelievable opportunity. Dr. Alster’s own passion for laser technology undoubtedly stimulated my own interest in lasers, and I hope to be half the ASLMS mentor to future trainees as Dr. Alster was to me.

My two week ASLMS Preceptorship with Dr. Mitch Goldman was more enriching to my education and training than I ever could have imagined. Coming from an academic institution with somewhat limited cosmetic and laser dermatology exposure, I was able to get first-hand experience with cutting edge treatment modalities. Drs Goldman, Wu, Fabi, Butterwick, and Groff could not have been more kind and supportive regarding my educational experience in their busy practice. Despite my gaps in knowledge, they were always eager to teach about both the newer energy based devices in use as well as the salient features of older more traditional procedures.

The practice has an immense amount of energy based devices including just about every laser one could imagine. Drs Goldman and Wu were always helpful in simplifying the treatment modalities and their mechanism of action. I was very fortunate to see a number of procedures not available to most residents in an academic setting including Thermage, Ultherapy, Infini Radiofrequency, Coolsculpting, Cellfina, Liposuction, and Phlebectomy. Observing these treatments directly provided more understanding than one could ever glean from a textbook or journal article.

I could not be more appreciative for the time during patient encounters that Dr. Goldman took to highlight teaching points. From the initial patient consultation to procedural methods and managing complications, he enthusiastically passed along the nuances of providing optimal patient care. Dr. Goldman has a tremendous reputation for his contributions to the evolution of sclerotherapy and I was fortunate to observe him perform a fair amount during my two weeks. With each procedure he would provide invaluable advice on proper patient evaluation, technique, counseling, and post-procedural care. It is a wonderful privilege to be able to garner such knowledge and I am truly indebted to both the ASLMS and Dr. Goldman.

I left the two week ASLMS Preceptorship completely exhilarated about incorporating novel cosmetic, laser, and procedural dermatologic therapies into my future practice. The entire experience was outstanding and I would recommend others looking to have a truly inspiring educational opportunity to pursue the same. Dr. Goldman's mentorship was something that I will cherish throughout my career and look to give back to others in the future.

My ASLMS preceptorship with Dr Dover was outstanding. I learned the nuances of energy-based therapy from the physicians who invented many of the techniques. This preceptorship will be critical to my development as a aspirational leader in the field as well. Not only was it educational, but it enabled me to make critical connections with the current giants in the field of cosmetic, procedural, and laser dermatology: Drs Rohrer, Dover, Arndt, and Kaminer. You can only learn so much from textbooks and journal articles. Being able to actually work alongside these physicians for a week is irreplaceable and I am so grateful to ASLMS for providing me this opportunity. I could not recommend this program strongly enough and I couldn't possibly overstate the significance I believe that it will have on my career in the field of energy based devices and procedural dermatology.