Happy Holidays!!

      At this time of the year, I like to reflect back at all the wonderful and exciting things that have transpired over 2009.  Since I began the practice, only five and a half months ago, TruYou Plastic Surgery has really come a long way.  We have established a sound referral base, working closely with very talented and caring physicians including general surgeons, oncologists, dermatologist, Moh's surgeons, orthopedic surgeons, obstetricians, and primary care doctors.  We currently have under our care, over 200 wonderful patients and that number is growing everyday.
     I have really enjoyed my first six months in practice here in Jacksonville, and am looking forward to a long career taking care of people and helping out in our wonderful city.  The new year will bring even more excitement and change as we continue to grow and establish our roots.  Over the next six months, I plan to expand the business by adding another talented plastic surgeon to the group and opening a new location in Fernandina!  Log on to our site (Truyoujax.com) and follow our progress through this blog to keep track of us.
     Have a wonderful holiday and a healthy and prosperous new year! 

"Ask The Doctor" social presentation at Rio Hair Studio

Pictures from last night's "Ask the Doctor" social event and presentation at Rio Hair Salon.  The event was a huge success.  I lectured about skin health and facial rejuvenating procedures.  Afterwords, there was plenty of time for questions and answers, with a complimentary glycolic hand peel for all the ladies.

Thanks to the staff at Rio for making this a fun night for everyone. Click on the link below to check out the Salon and schedule your next appointment with these terrific stylists!

Rio hair studio

Nearly Two Months In Private Practice

After nearly two months of practice, TruYou, is doing really well.  I have seen some wonderful patients and have made new friends.  I have a few exciting events scheduled in the next few weeks as well.  First, is an informal "Ask the Doctor" presentation at Rio Hair studio.  Rio is owned by my good friend Misty Burbridge, an outstanding hair stylist.  I will present a talk on skin care and facial rejuvenation.  Then, later in the month, i have two "Boots, Botox, and Baubles" events, where i will educate patients on the use of botox and fillers.  This will be at Emly Benham's stores, which she has so kindly offered up for these events.  Really exciting things going on all through October, including some big surgeries!

Happy Jewish New Year everybody!

What I learned during my first two weeks

Starting a practice is not easy.  Okay, everyone knows that, but here are some key issues I have learned that may make someone else's life a bit easier:

1.  Hire a motivated, hardworking and efficient person as your first employee ==> Lucked out on that one, Robin McBride is my nurse and she has gone well above and beyond my expectations.  My suggestion would be not to hire someone straight out of nursing school, but instead, experience really matters at the beginning.

2.  Insurance companies do not have your best interest in mind!  This is an understatement.  You will be smart to call the insurance companies you are contracting with at least 3x weekly.  They loose information, get things wrong, and frankly, don't really care about you.  Don't let them get you upset, just stay on them.

3.  Spend time, effort, and money to meet and impress your referral docs.  Let them know what you do and what services a plastic surgeon provides.  The misconception that all we do is cosmetic and we don't except insurance is widespread.  Take your time to educate referring physicians about cancer reconstruction, pediatric cases, breast reductions, burn management, trauma, etc.

That's it for now.... Stay tuned for more advice, wisdom, and keep up with me.

Front Lobby

TruYou is up and running!

The Baymeadows location of TruYou Plastic Surgery of Jacksonville officially opened on August 10th, 2009.  I want to sincerely thank everyone that has helped me so much in the planning, building, financing, decorating, and logistics that went into this labor of love.  Most importantly my wife, who without her help and love, none of this would have ever happened!

Cheers and Greetings,

Erez Sternberg