The Oculofacial Podcast

Epizode

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  Surgical Technique Battle: Anterior Lamella Management in Lower Blepharoplasty Surgery 14.08.2026 37min

  This episode of T.O.P. is brought to you by Ronin Surgical, the market leader in surgical illumination. When you're focused on delivering the best outcomes for your patients, your equipment should work seamlessly alongside you. That's why Ronin Surgical developed the X7 Surgical Headlight System—engineered to be lighter, brighter, and longer-lasting than any other operating room headlight. With innovative features like High Intensity Mode and hot-swap capabilities, the X7 delivers superior illumination when it matters most. Learn more at www.roninsurgical.com/ Moderator: Natalie Hoesly, MD FACS Participants: - Bobby Korn, MD PhD FACS - Michael McCracken, MD FACS - Ivan Vrcek, MD FACS - Robert Schwarcz, MD FACS Podcast Description: Now on TOP: Join us for another Surgical Technique Battle, focusing on anterior lamella management strategies in lower blepharoplasty surgery Dr. Natalie Hoesly hosts Dr. Bobby Korn, Dr. Micahel McCracken, Dr. Robert Schwarcz and Dr. Ivan Vrcek to a discussion of anterior lamella management strategies in lower blepharoplasty surgery, including chemical peel, laser resurfacing, skin pinch and skin/muscle suspension techniques.
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  OPRS Journal May/June 2026 Issue 28.07.2026 42min

  Host: Dr. Jonathan Lu Panelists: Dr. Michael Burnstine, Dr. Alon Kahana, and Dr. Nickisa Hodgson In this episode of The Oculofacial Podcast Journal Club, three interesting studies from the May/June 2026 issue of the OPRS Journal are summarized and discussed by experts in the field. Topics will include projected workforce needs in oculofacial plastic surgery, intravitreal injection related eyelid ptosis, and GLP-1 medications' impact on the face. The panelists will guide listeners through these studies while also adding their own perspectives and experiences.
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  Highlights from the Spring ASOPRS Scientific Symposium 07.07.2026 35min

  We are joined by Dr. Peter Timoney, director of the spring meeting to recap all the highlights and get some behind the scenes insight. Dr. Lilly Wagner recaps the Orbit and Oncology sessions with her favorite take-aways and Dr. Katie Winkler shares the best of the Aesthetics and Practice Management sessions.
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  Perspectives on ACGME Accreditation and Fellowship Training 23.06.2026 44min

  In this episode, ASOPRS Immediate Past President, Dr. Wendy Lee, moderates a candid roundtable with Drs. Don Kikkawa, John Holds, Evan Black, and Reza Vagefi, as they discuss ACGME accreditation of fellowship training. The panel weighs external validation, standardized training, and the potential for a new ABO subspecialty certification in the setting of ACGME requirements and some program director concerns about those requirements. Both ACGME accreditation of fellowships and participation in ABO Continuing Certification are two key components of an ABMS-compliant certification. Whether you're a member or simply invested in the future of oculofacial plastic surgery, this conversation is essential listening.
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  The Oculoplastics Specialty Over Time 16.06.2026 36min

  Moderator: Dr. Deepak Ramesh Guests: Dr. Rod Rohrich and Dr. John Holds In the dynamic world of oculofacial plastic surgery, trends come and go, but some principles remain timeless. This post explores the evolution of eyelid surgery, the shift towards natural aesthetics, and the future of oculoplastics based on insights from leading experts in the field.  
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  Surgical Spotlight on Myogenic Ptosis: Is it really any different? 08.06.2026 49min

  Moderator: Cat Burkat, MD FACS (Professor at Univ of Wisconsin-Madison) Guests · Dr. Elizabeth Bradley, Associate Professor at the Mayo Clinic, Rochester · Dr. François Codère Associate Professor from the Université de Montréal in Canada · Dr. Richard Allen, Professor at Baylor in Texas   In this Surgical Spotlight TOP podcast episode: "Myogenic Ptosis: Is It Really Any Different?", we are diving into a topic that most oculoplastic surgeons encounter—but rarely explore in depth: the surgical management of myogenic ptosis in progressive conditions such as Oculopharyngeal Muscular Dystrophy and Chronic Progressive External Ophthalmoplegia. We'll explore how the natural history of myogenic ptosis may change surgical decision-making. Should timing and the selected procedure be driven not just by the exam—but by disease trajectory? Does earlier onset signal a more aggressive course, pushing us toward more proactive surgery rather than a traditional stepwise approach? And how should we rethink concepts like recurrence, failure, and even surgical success when progression is expected? Tune in as we discuss the challenge of correcting myogenic ptosis—for today, and where the patient will be years from now.
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  Festoons & Malar Mounds: Mastering the Unmasterable 28.05.2026 1h 10min

  In this episode of The Oculofacial Podcast, host Dr. David Samimi is joined by an expert panel including Drs. Larry Kass, Allen Wulc, Julian Perry, and Adam Scheiner to discuss the management of one of the more challenging problems in aesthetic and reconstructive oculoplastic surgery – lower eyelid festoons and malar mounds.  The conversation covers topics including patient evaluation, treatment selection, laser resurfacing, injectable tetracycline, surgical techniques, midface lifting, fat grafting, direct festoon excision, and pearls for avoiding complications and recurrence. They also discuss why patient counseling and expectation management are critical to achieving successful outcomes. Each expert offers their own personal experience in the treatment of festoons to deliver expert insights and treatment and surgical pearls.  Disclaimer: The opinions and perspectives expressed by participants are their own and are shared for informational discussion purposes only. Statements made during the podcast may not be those of ASOPRS or the ASOPRS Board of Directors.
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  Focus Forward: Board Certification 20.05.2026 27min

  About This Episode ASOPRS President Dr. John Ng moderates a panel discussion on subspecialty board certification, why it matters now, and what it would mean for members. Panelists Dr. Ken Morgenstern — Board Certification Liaison, Former ASOPRS President Dr. Stuart Seiff — Executive Vice President, Former ASOPRS President Dr. Jennifer Murdock — ASOPRS Member Dr. George Bartley — CEO, American Board of Ophthalmology Dr. Jill Foster — Former ASOPRS President Key Topics Covered Why credentialing, legal, and advocacy pressures have made board certification a priority for ASOPRS to support The case for ABO subspecialty certification One member's firsthand experience regarding denial of ASC privileges The ABO's commitment to making ophthalmic plastic & reconstructive surgery the first ophthalmology subspecialty ACGME fellowship requirements: Key differences, challenges, and potential solutions Disclaimer: The opinions and perspectives expressed by participants are their own and are shared for informational discussion purposes only. Statements made during the podcast may not be those of ASOPRS or the ASOPRS Board of Directors.
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  Hair Transplantation for the Oculoplastic Surgeon 08.05.2026 1h 13min

  ASOPRS Website: Click Here Host: Deepak Ramesh In this episode of the ASOPRS Oculofacial Podcast, host Dr. Deepak Ramesh is joined by Drs. Gary Linkov and Mike McCracken to explore the evolving role of hair transplantation within oculoplastic surgery. From foundational principles like androgenetic hair loss and donor site selection to advanced techniques such as FUE vs. FUT, eyebrow restoration, and patient selection, the discussion blends science, artistry, and real-world practice insights. Whether you're considering incorporating hair restoration into your practice or simply want to better understand its nuances, this episode delivers practical pearls, business considerations, and future-forward perspectives on this growing subspecialty    
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  OPRS Journal Club March/April Issue 07.04.2026 46min

  ASOPRS Website: Click Here Host: Dr. Jamie Keen Panelists: Dr. Stuart R. Seiff, Dr. Erin Shriver, and Dr. Kathryn (Katie) Winkler Producer: Seanna Grob In this episode of The Oculofacial Podcast Journal Club, host Dr. Jamie Keen is joined by an esteemed panel of leaders in oculoplastic surgery; Dr. Stuart Seiff, Dr. Erin Shriver, and Dr. Katie Winkler to review and discuss three impactful studies from the March/April 2026 issue of the OPRS Journal. The conversation explores long-term brow lift outcomes through a systematic review and meta-analysis, evaluates key predictors of facial asymmetry in unilateral anophthalmia and microphthalmia, and examines the relationship between socioeconomic factors and periocular basal cell carcinoma treated with Mohs surgery. Each expert brings thoughtful insight into the strengths, limitations, and real-world implications of these studies, offering valuable perspective on how emerging research may influence clinical decision-making and patient care in oculofacial plastic surgery.
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  Lasers Part 2: Ablative Laser Resurfacing 23.03.2026 1h 14min

  ASOPRS Website: Click Here Moderator: Dr. Nicole Langelier Panelists: Dr John Fezza, Dr. Ana Carolina Victoria, Dr Deepak Ramesh, Dr. Jennifer Murdock, and Dr Julie Woodward. In this episode of The Oculofacial Podcast, leading surgeons come together to explore the clinical art and science of ablative laser resurfacing, breaking down CO₂, erbium, and hybrid technologies. They dive into device selection, patient candidacy, treatment techniques, and complication management, offering real-world insights from years of hands-on experience. Whether you're refining your approach or just getting started, this episode delivers a masterclass in achieving safer treatments and better patient outcomes.  
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  OPRS Journal Club January/February Issue 13.03.2026 36min

  Discover the latest findings on basal cell carcinoma presentations across different ethnicities and the role of modifiable risk factors. Essential insights for medical professionals and patients alike. In this episode, we discuss skin health, where a topic that often arises is basal cell carcinoma (BCC), the most common form of skin cancer. With increasing rates of skin cancers noted globally, understanding how BCC presents across different demographics is crucial. In this blog post, we delve into a study that analyzed patterns of BCC presentation using data from the National Institutes of Health's All of Us database, focusing on ethnic differences—such as non-White patients being younger and more likely to have non-facial BCC—and modifiable risk factors like alcohol intake, which showed a dose-dependent increase in facial BCC risk. Explore cutting-edge insights on predicting dysthyroid optic neuropathy (DON), a serious complication of thyroid eye disease. Vital knowledge for clinicians and those affected by thyroid disorders. In this segment, we turn to orbital health, highlighting DON, which impacts 5-8% of thyroid eye disease patients and can lead to vision loss if undetected. Early identification through imaging is key, and this post examines a study evaluating subjective assessments of eight CT features in 258 orbits to predict DON. Key findings emphasize apical crowding as the strongest predictor, alongside extraocular muscle enlargement, vascular congestion, and medial wall bowing, offering practical tools for risk stratification in clinical practice.
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  Pearls on Complex Orbital Reconstruction 05.03.2026 1h 16min

  ASOPRS Website: Click Here This episode was produced by Dr. Lilangi Ediriwickrema and moderated by Dr. Nicole Topilow. In Pearls on Complex Orbital Reconstruction, Dr. Nicole Topilow moderates a dynamic roundtable with Drs. Grant, Tao, and Kikkawa exploring pre-operative planning, timing of acute versus delayed repairs, and key surgical landmarks in orbital fracture management. The panel dives into implant selection, fixation strategies, customization and 3D printing, and how their approaches have evolved over time. Challenging cases such as large floor and medial wall defects, delayed enophthalmos, infected implants, and post-operative complications are discussed with practical, experience-driven insights. The episode concludes with expert take-home pearls to guide surgeons in managing complex orbital reconstructions with confidence and precision.
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  Audiology for the Oculoplastic Surgeon 11.02.2026 1h 7min

  ASOPRS Website: Click Here In this episode, Dr. Deepak Ramesh discusses interpretation and evaluation of hearing and audiograms in relation to the field of oculoplastics. He is joined by Dr. Eric Sandler and Michele Schechter, audiologist who have experience both in clinical trials and in clinical practice with ototoxic medication such as teprotumumab. 
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  Nov/Dec 2025 OPRS Journal Club 19.01.2026 1h

  ASOPRS Website: Click Here   In this episode of the Ocular Facial Podcast, Dr. Michelle Ting and her esteemed guests discuss significant articles from the November-December 2025 issue of OPRS. The conversation covers the role of tranexamic acid in oculoplastic surgery, the correlation between quality of life and clinical parameters in thyroid eye disease, and the potential link between air pollution and thyroid eye disease. The panelists share their insights, personal practices, and the importance of understanding patient experiences.
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  Surgical Technique Battle - Graft Material Used in Lower Eyelid Retraction Repair 06.01.2026 37min

  ASOPRS Website: Click Here Dr. Natalie Hoesly hosts Dr. Anne Barmettler, Dr. Michael Kazim, and Dr. Reza Vagefi to a discussion of the nuances of lower eyelid retraction repair and a debate of the pros and cons of different spacer graft materials, including hard palate, ear cartilage and acellular dermal matrix.
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  Interview with 2025 ASOPRS President: Dr. Wendy Lee 31.12.2025 27min

  ASOPRS Website: Click Here Join Dr. Grant Moore for an interview with 2025 ASOPRS President, Dr. Wendy Lee. In this episode, Dr. Lee discusses her pathway to becoming ASOPRS president, her term in office, progress on board certification, and how she balances life and work. Fun fact: she's been to at least 9 countries this year. Happy listening!
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  Surgical Spotlight: DCR Unplugged with the Lacrimal Legends 21.12.2025 1h 3min

  ASOPRS Website: Click Here   In this episode of the Oculofacial podcast, host Dr. Cat Burkat engages with Dr. Francois Codere, Dr. Peter Dolman, and Prof. Geoffrey Rose who are all experts in the field of DCR (Dacryocystorhinostomy) to explore the complexities of tear drainage, surgical techniques, and the evolving understanding of the lacrimal system. The conversation covers the physiological aspects of tear drainage, the importance of surgical nuances, the role of silicone intubation, and the challenges faced in DCR surgeries. The experts share their insights, experiences, and light bulb moments that have shaped their approaches to DCR, while also addressing unanswered questions in the field.
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  Sept/Oct 2025 OPRS Journal Club 25.11.2025 42min

  ASOPRS Website: Click Here Join our host, Dr. Edith Reshef and esteemed guests Dr. Jonathan Lu, Dr. Seanna Grob, and Dr. Reza Vagefi in their discussion of the September-October issue of OPRS. Topics include utilization of serologic inflammatory markers in predicting orbital cellulitis severity, whether silicone cream is beneficial post-operatively for periorbital surgery, and management of refractive blepharospasm with partial orbicularis myectomy. Listen in to gain insight from our experts!
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  AI in Oculoplastics, The Usefulness of Tepezza, and Posterior Ptosis Repair 09.11.2025 1h 6min

  ASOPRS Website: Click Here In this engaging episode of The Oculofacial Podcast, host Dr. Christopher Dermarkarian and a distinguished panel explore the current research in oculofacial surgery, particularly focusing on the evolving role of artificial intelligence, the impacts of TED treatment with teprotumumab and the pitfalls of posterior ptosis repair. This episode draws rich insights from experts Dr. David Jordan, Dr. Louise Mawn, and Dr. Richard Allen as they dissect recent peer-reviewed studies, share practical experiences, and debate the shifting landscape of oculoplastic surgery and patient care. The episode opens with an in-depth analysis of a recent study on artificial intelligence's application in oculoplastics, highlighting its potential to outperform human analysis in certain diagnostic tasks. Dr. Louise Mawn leads the conversation, detailing how AI is being used from clinical photographs to smartphone videos, emphasizing the need for transparency and ethical considerations as technology advances. Dr. Richard Allen underscores the healthcare implications of AI's integration, while Dr. David Jordan expresses cautious optimism, highlighting the necessity for continued clinical involvement and the ethical complexities that come with use of AI. Further discussion shifts to thyroid eye disease, particularly focusing on teprotumumab. Dr. Allen leads this conversation, noting that Tepezza is not the  "smoking gun" it was originally made out to be. The panel provides contrasting views, with Dr. Mawn lauding the drug's potential and Dr. Allen critiquing its financial burden. The conversation ties into broader themes about balancing innovation with traditional surgical expertise, exploring how new drugs might alter training and practice standards.  The final discussion navigates the complexities of posterior ptosis repair. This discussion is led by Dr. David Jordan. Interestingly, Dr. Jordan and Mawn shy away from posterior ptosis repair and Dr. Allen uses it regularly. What makes this more interesting is that all three come from similar clinical backgrounds, suggesting their experiences have truly guided their clinical practice. Dr. Allen notes how the posterior ptosis approach may be detracting from trainees' ability to perform a good anterior ptosis repair.