In the heart of San Antonio, Texas, there’s a place where aesthetic medicine isn’t just about physical transformations; it’s about reigniting a spark within individuals. Dr. Michael Decherd, the driving force behind San Antonio Plastic Surgery Institute, has a unique philosophy when developing treatment plans.
To truly understand Dr. Decherd’s approach, we delved into his journey and philosophy, exploring the driving force behind his passion for transforming lives.
Interviewer:
What drew you to the world of aesthetic medicine and ignited your passion for helping people transform?
Dr. Decherd:
It was almost accidental. I started as an ENT (Ear, Nose, Throat) doctor because I was drawn to the reconstructive aspect of medicine. But then, at UT Southwestern in Dallas, I had the opportunity to delve into plastic surgery. It was there that I truly realized the transformative power of medicine extends far beyond the physical. Witnessing the emotional and psychological uplift in patients, seeing their confidence blossom after a procedure, is incredibly rewarding. Knowing that I’ve played a part in helping them feel better about themselves – that’s what ignited my passion for this field.
Interviewer:
How do you consider the whole person—their emotional and psychological needs—when developing treatment plans?
Dr. Decherd:
It’s not just about ‘cutting off skin and fat.’ It’s about understanding the patient’s goals and developing a realistic plan to achieve them. I prioritize procedures based on what will have the most significant impact on the patient’s well-being, considering both physical and emotional outcomes. For example, we discuss realistic expectations with massive weight loss patients and focus on the most impactful procedures. It’s about making people feel ‘pretty,’ restoring confidence, and having them feel proud of themselves.
Interviewer:
If you could summarize your philosophy into a few key principles, what would they be? How do these principles guide your interactions with patients and your approach to treatment?
Dr. Decherd:
This isn’t just about achieving a certain look; it’s about restoring confidence and pride. When people feel good about themselves, it creates a ripple effect that positively impacts all aspects of their lives. It’s about those personal moments when a patient feels good about themselves for the first time in years, brings cookies, or writes a card – that’s what makes this job so rewarding. These principles guide everything I do, from the initial consultation to the post-operative care. It’s about building a relationship with the patient, understanding their goals, and creating a treatment plan that addresses their individual needs.
Interviewer:
Can you recall a patient encounter that deeply moved you and helped shape how you approach your work?
Dr. Decherd:
There was a woman in her 60s who got her first set of breast implants. She was so emotional, sharing how she felt ‘pretty’ for the first time in 50 years. She even told me that a construction worker whistled at her, and she smiled and said, “Bless you!” It was a beautiful moment that highlighted how transformative this work can be, restoring confidence and allowing people to embrace their beauty at any age.
Another woman was so self-conscious about her sagging stomach that she had to lift up the excess skin to apply deodorant underneath. After her tummy tuck, she was overcome with emotion, realizing that she could finally feel confident and comfortable in her own skin. These encounters solidified my belief that aesthetic medicine is about so much more than just physical changes; it’s about empowering individuals to feel good about themselves, inside and out.
“I lost a hundred pounds, and…I just had a lot of skin that was hanging over…You’d have to lift the skin and put deodorant on, and it was just really gross. I had seen four different doctors before I saw Dr. Decherd, and he was the last one I saw and by far the best. He spent so much time talking to me and explaining everything in detail. I bet you we were in there for forty-five minutes to an hour. You could tell that he’s really good. I ended up going with him and it was the best thing I ever did…because I can fit into anything…Even when I was nineteen, I didn’t feel as good in a bikini as I do today. So, it’s been a great experience…”
– Tracy, Tummy Tuck Patient
Interviewer:
What key takeaways do you hope Ailm Atelier readers will gain from your story of personal and professional growth?
Dr. Decherd:
I hope readers will see that aesthetic medicine is not just about physical changes; it’s about restoring confidence, pride, and a sense of self-worth. It’s about helping people feel comfortable in their own skin.
Interviewer:
What excites you most about the future of aesthetic medicine, and what are you most passionate about pursuing in your own practice?
Dr. Decherd:
I’m incredibly excited about the increasing integration of cutting-edge technology with traditional surgical techniques. This allows us to offer a broader range of options and personalize treatment plans to a greater degree than ever before. In my own practice, I’m passionate about continuing to refine the “total aesthetic package” approach, combining surgical procedures with non-surgical treatments like light-based therapy to address a broader spectrum of concerns and achieve truly comprehensive results for my patients.
Contact Info
