As the nurse at Wright Plastic Surgery, I am involved in both the aesthetic and surgical sides of the practice. In addition to helping patients throughout their surgical procedures, I educate and guide patients on nonsurgical options such as injectables, laser treatments and skin care, allowing each patient to make an informed decision about their aesthetic journey. I truly love my role in both sides of the practice!
PRESSING QUESTIONS
How I knew this was my passion
I have always been drawn to the aesthetic side of things. Whether it was walking into a room and mentally rearranging the furniture or over analyzing every outfit I put on – I get to do this every day by helping patients find their best selves. My goal is not to completely change the way patients look, just offer them a refreshed version of themselves!
Biggest challenges of my career
Finding enough time in the day. I enjoy my work with both the aesthetic and the surgical patients. Thankfully, we have an amazing team at Wright Plastic Surgery which allows me to be involved in both sides of the practice. At the end of the day, I am grateful to have time to spend with my family, but I have had to learn to prioritize my goals so that all areas of my life are full.
My first job and what it taught me
Staff nurse. It taught me organizational skills and to always be prepared. I spent many years of my career in the NICU at UAMS with a short stint in neurosurgery. Each step of my nursing background prepared me for my current position.
Nonprofit I wish more people knew about
Philanthropic Educational Operation or P.E.O. It is a philanthropic and educational organization that promotes the education of women around the world. I have been involved with the organization since 2007.
What keeps me coming back to my job every day?
Happy patients! From patients with a refreshed look after a recent injectable or skin treatment to the breast cancer patient that has completed her reconstruction, it is all very rewarding.
Best career moment so far
Realizing patients trust me. They trust that I believe certain treatments will improve their area of concern, and they allow me to guide them through that process. They trust in my experience and knowledge of which treatments will help them reach their goal.
A skill I never expected to need in this field
Versatility. I am continuously switching nursing roles. The skill set used when seeing a surgical patient is different from that used in my injector role. The assessments and treatments are completely different, and I have to be prepared, educated on the latest techniques and ready for each patient’s needs.
Practice I use to maintain my mental health
Prayer, surrounding myself with good friends and my family. I could not do without these three things.
Best advice I ever received
From my mother, “people are watching you, set a good example.” This is something I have instilled in my three daughters as well. We all have influence over others. It needs to be a positive influence.
The one thing I wish people knew about my field
It is not all cosmetic patients. I am very involved with breast reconstruction patients. The weekly tissue expansions allow us to develop relationships on a very personal level. Seeing women transform from the early days of the reconstruction process and weekly gain confidence in their health and physical appearance is rewarding. They are all very special to me.
The first thing I do to course-correct when I hit a wall
Reevaluate and seek wise counsel.