How to Make Better Surgeon Videos

 

Tips for Making Patient Education Videos & Better Surgeon Videos

For many plastic surgeons, the idea of being on camera can feel intimidating. They may worry about how they look, how they sound, or whether patients will find their videos engaging. Yet in a competitive aesthetic marketplace, video is one of the most powerful tools for building trust, educating patients, and showcasing expertise. The good news is that even the most camera shy  surgeon can learn to create authentic, professional, and effective videos with the right strategies in place.

This article shares practical ideas and tips to help surgeons ease into video creation, reduce the stress of being on camera, and gradually build confidence. From starting small with voiceover clips to using interview-style formats or professional editing support, these ideas are designed to make the process approachable while keeping the focus on what matters most — educating and reassuring patients.

10 Best Ideas to Help Your Surgeon Make More Videos

Helping your plastic surgeon create videos can be challenging but achievable with the right approach. Here are some tips and ideas that can help a plastic surgeon feel more comfortable in front of the camera:

1. Start Small and Simple
   • Short Clips: Begin with very short videos (30 seconds to 1 minute) to build confidence.
   • Voiceover: Allow them to start with videos where they narrate over images or procedures, avoiding direct on-camera appearances initially.
2. Focus on Preparation
   • Script Development: Help them develop a script that feels natural and aligns with their speaking style. Rehearsing multiple times can also reduce anxiety.
   • Practice Sessions: Encourage practicing in front of a mirror or recording multiple takes privately until they feel comfortable.
3. Use a Casual Setting
   • Comfortable Environment: Shoot in a location where they feel relaxed, such as their office or a favourite spot in the clinic.
   • Dress Comfortably: Let them wear attire they are comfortable in, which can help reduce nerves.
4. Incorporate a Friendly Interview Style
   • Q&A Format: Have someone else (like a colleague or marketing team member) ask questions off-camera, so the surgeon can respond naturally rather than delivering a monologue.
   • Patient Testimonials: Incorporating testimonials where they can discuss the success stories of their patients can shift the focus from themselves to their work.
5. Professional Support
   • Coaching: Hire a professional media coach or a mentor who specialises in working with medical professionals to help them feel more at ease on camera.
   • Editing Help: Ensure they know that post-production editing can fix mistakes, so they don’t have to worry about being perfect in one take.
6. Highlight Their Expertise
   • Focus on Education: Emphasize the value of their expertise by focusing on educational content. This can help them feel more like they are teaching rather than selling.
   • Use of Demonstrations: Instead of talking to the camera, they can demonstrate a procedure or use visuals to convey their message.
7. Incremental Exposure
   • Social Media Stories: Encourage them to use platforms like Instagram or Facebook Stories where the videos are short-lived, reducing pressure.
   • Collaborative Content: Pair them with another surgeon or team member for the video, so they share the spotlight.
8. Feedback and Encouragement
   • Positive Reinforcement: Provide positive feedback and highlight their strengths after each video shoot.
   • Gradual Improvement: Set small goals for each new video to gradually improve their confidence and presentation skills.
9. Leverage Animation and Graphics
   • Animation Overlays: Use animations or graphics to explain complex concepts, reducing the need for them to speak on camera.
10. Use Teleprompters
    • Script on Screen: Using a teleprompter can help them stay on track with their message without the anxiety of remembering lines

10 Types of Videos for Plastic Surgeons to Make 

1. Educational Blog Posts
   • Informative Articles: Write blog posts about common procedures, patient care, and recovery tips. This can establish the surgeon as an authority in their field and attract patients searching for information online.
2. Before-and-After Galleries
   • Visual Success Stories: Create a gallery of before-and-after photos (with patient consent) on the website. This visual proof of their work can be compelling for prospective patients.
3. Patient Testimonials (USA only – Not in Australia or Canada)
   • Written Reviews: Collect and display written testimonials from satisfied patients. These personal stories can build trust and credibility.
4. Social Media Content
   • Engagement Posts: Regularly post updates, patient success stories, and behind-the-scenes content on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn. Engage with followers through Q&A sessions or polls.
5. Email Newsletters
   • Regular Updates: Send out monthly or quarterly newsletters with updates on the practice, new services, and educational content. This keeps the practice top-of-mind for patients.
6. Podcasts
   • Audio Content: Start a podcast discussing topics related to plastic surgery, patient experiences, and industry trends. This can reach a wider audience and position the surgeon as a thought leader.
7. Webinars and Live Q&A Sessions
   • Interactive Content: Host webinars or live Q&A sessions where potential patients can ask questions and learn more about procedures. This interactive format builds trust and educates viewers.
8. Infographics
   • Visual Learning Tools: Create infographics that explain complex procedures in a simple, visual format. These can be shared on social media or the practice’s website.
9. Online Patient Resources
   • Downloadable Guides: Offer downloadable guides or brochures on various procedures. This provides value to potential patients and helps them make informed decisions.
10. Community Involvement
    • Local Events: Participate in or sponsor local events and document these activities on the practice’s website and social media. This demonstrates community involvement and builds a positive reputation.

How to Make Your Videos More Authentic and Personal – while being Professional

Conversational Tone:

• • Casual Language: Encourage the surgeon to speak in a conversational tone rather than reading directly from a script. This makes the video feel more personal and relatable.
  • Bullet Points: Use bullet points instead of a full script, allowing the surgeon to speak naturally on each topic.

Personal Anecdotes:

• • • Share Stories: Include personal stories or experiences related to the topic. This adds authenticity and helps viewers connect with the surgeon on a personal level.
    • Patient Journeys: Discuss specific patient journeys (with permission), focusing on their unique stories and outcomes.

Minimal Editing:

• • Natural Pauses: Allow for natural pauses and slight imperfections in the video. Over-editing can make the content feel less genuine.
  • Keep It Real: Small mistakes or informal moments can actually make the video feel more authentic and personal.

On-Screen Interactions:

• • Engage with Others: Include interactions with staff or patients on-screen. This shows the surgeon in a natural setting, engaging with others in a professional yet personal manner.

Visual Cues:

• • Body Language: Encourage the surgeon to use open and welcoming body language, such as smiling or using hand gestures, to make the video feel warm and approachable.
  • Eye Contact: Maintain direct eye contact with the camera, simulating a face-to-face conversation with the viewer.
  • Authentic Settings: Use Real Locations: Film in settings that reflect the surgeon’s daily environment, such as their office or consultation room, rather than in a studio. This helps viewers feel like they’re getting a genuine glimpse into the surgeon’s world.

10 Types of Videos to Showcase Your Personality as a Surgeon

1. Meet the Surgeon Video
   • Personal Introduction: Create a short video where the surgeon introduces themselves, shares their background, why they chose plastic surgery, and what they enjoy most about their work. This helps patients connect on a personal level.
2. A Day in the Life Video
   • Daily Routine: Film a day in the life of the surgeon, highlighting their routine at the clinic, interactions with staff, and their approach to patient care. This provides a glimpse into their working style and personality.
3. Why I Love My Job Video
   • Passion for the Profession: Have the surgeon talk about what they love most about being a plastic surgeon, focusing on patient transformations and the impact on their lives. This showcases their passion and dedication.
4. Behind-the-Scenes Video
   • Office Tour: Provide a behind-the-scenes look at the clinic, including the surgeon’s office, operating rooms, and patient areas. The surgeon can narrate and share personal anecdotes about their workspace.
5. Patient Success Story Video (only in USA not Australia/Canada)
   • Personal Reflections: Feature a story of a particularly meaningful patient case (with patient consent), where the surgeon reflects on the experience and what it meant to them personally.
6. Hobbies and Interests Video
   • Life Outside the Office: Showcase the surgeon’s hobbies or interests outside of work. Whether it’s sports, art, or travel, this humanizes them and makes them more relatable to potential patients.
7. Favorite Procedure Video
   • Specialty Focus: Have the surgeon discuss their favourite procedure to perform and why. This can highlight their expertise and passion for specific areas of plastic surgery.
8. Ask Me Anything Video
   • Q&A Session: Record a casual Q&A where the surgeon answers common questions from patients. This format allows their personality to shine through in a more conversational manner.
9. What Inspires Me Video
   • Personal Motivation: Discuss what inspires the surgeon in their work, whether it’s patient transformations, advancements in the field, or something personal. This gives viewers insight into their motivations.
10. Fun Fact About Me Video
    • Lighthearted Content: Share a fun or surprising fact about the surgeon that isn’t related to their work, like a unique talent or an interesting experience. This adds a lighthearted element to the video content.

50 Top Tips to help you get started making Plastic Surgery Patient Education Videos

1. Record on a Smartphone
   • Familiar Device: Using a smartphone can feel less intimidating than professional cameras. It’s something they’re already comfortable with.
2. Speak Naturally
   • Casual Conversation: Encourage them to speak as if they are talking to a patient one-on-one. Keeping it conversational can reduce nerves.
3. Keep It Short
   • 1-2 Minute Videos: Focus on creating very short videos that deliver a single, clear message. This limits the time they need to be on camera.
4. Use Bullet Points
   • Quick Notes: Rather than a full script, have them use bullet points to guide their talking points. This feels less scripted and more natural.
5. No-Pressure Environment
   • Private Setting: Record in a quiet, private space where they feel comfortable and aren’t distracted.
6. Record Multiple Takes
   • Try Again: Let them know they can record as many takes as needed. Knowing they don’t have to get it perfect on the first try can ease nerves.
7. Smile and Pause
   • Friendly Approach: Smiling and pausing between thoughts can make them appear more approachable and help them relax.
8. Focus on One Message
   • Single Topic: Have them focus on just one message per video. This simplifies the content and makes it easier to deliver.
9. Wear What Feels Right
   • Comfortable Attire: Let them wear what they’re comfortable in, whether it’s their usual clinic attire or something more casual.
10. Avoid Live Recording
    • Pre-Recorded Videos: Start with pre-recorded videos instead of live sessions to reduce pressure.
11. Use Natural Lighting
    • Bright Spaces: Shoot videos in a well-lit area with natural light. This makes the video look better and can make the surgeon feel more at ease in a familiar environment.
12. Start with Voice-Only Content
    • Voice Narration: They can start by recording just their voice over images or slides. This reduces the pressure of being on camera and gets them used to hearing themselves.
13. Include Staff
    • Team Involvement: Have a friendly staff member or nurse join them in the video. This can create a relaxed atmosphere and shift the focus away from the surgeon.
14. Use Props
    • Demonstration Tools: Holding or demonstrating something (like a tool or product) can give them something to focus on, which can help them feel less self-conscious.
15. Self-Recording in Parts
    • Break It Up: Record the video in short segments and then piece them together. This way, they only have to focus on small parts at a time.
16. Personalise the Background
    • Familiar Surroundings: Encourage them to personalise the background with something that reflects their personality, like a favourite book or piece of art, to make the space feel more comfortable.
17. Record at Their Own Pace
    • Flexible Schedule: Allow them to record when they feel most comfortable, rather than scheduling a specific time that might add stress.
18. Use Simple Editing Tools
    • Basic Edits: Use easy editing software like iMovie or Adobe Spark to clean up the video. Knowing that mistakes can be easily edited out can reduce anxiety.
19. Encourage Authenticity
    • Be Themselves: Let them know it’s okay to be themselves, even if that means being a bit shy. Authenticity often resonates well with patients.
20. Review and Reflect
    • Watch Together: After recording, review the video with them in a supportive manner, pointing out what they did well. This can boost their confidence for future videos.
21. Use a Relaxed, Seated Position
    • Comfortable Seating: Have them sit in a comfortable chair or at their desk while recording. This can feel less formal and help them relax.
22. Incorporate Familiar Sounds or Music
    • Background Music: Adding gentle background music or familiar sounds can create a calming atmosphere, making the recording process less stressful.
23. Record During Quiet Times
    • Choose the Right Time: Encourage them to record during quiet times in the office when there are fewer distractions or interruptions.
24. Start with Thank You Videos
    • Gratitude Messages: Begin with simple “thank you” videos to patients or staff. These are easy to create and have a positive tone, which can help ease them into the process.
25. Focus on Post-Procedure Care Tips
    • Educational Content: Record videos that provide simple, useful post-procedure care tips. These can be easier to talk about because they are based on common patient questions and are straightforward.
26. Use Cue Cards
    • Guiding Notes: Place cue cards or sticky notes just off-camera to help them remember key points, so they don’t have to worry about forgetting what to say.
27. Avoid Perfectionism
    • Embrace Imperfections: Encourage them to embrace small imperfections in the video. Patients often appreciate authenticity over a perfectly polished presentation.
28. Dress Rehearsal
    • Practice Runs: Do a dress rehearsal where the video isn’t being recorded. This helps them get into the flow without the pressure of recording.
29. Film from a Distance
    • Distant Shot: If they’re uncomfortable with close-ups, film from a bit farther away. This can make them feel less exposed on camera.
30. Engage with Patient Stories
    • Storytelling: Have them share brief patient stories (with permission). Storytelling can shift their focus from themselves to the experiences they want to highlight.
31. Use Natural Conversations
    • Chat with a Colleague: Instead of speaking directly to the camera, they can have a natural conversation with a colleague about a specific topic, which can then be edited into a video.
32. Film Multiple Topics in One Session
    • Batch Recording: Once they’re comfortable, encourage them to film several short videos in one session. This reduces the number of times they need to get into the “video mindset.”
33. Ask for Input
    • Feedback from Staff: Before recording, have them run their ideas or scripts by trusted staff members for feedback. This can provide reassurance and improve content quality.
34. Use Self-Recording Apps
    • Simple Tools: There are apps like Zoom or Loom that allow them to record themselves easily, providing a familiar interface and fewer technical barriers.
35. Tell a Personal Story
    • Relatable Content: Sharing a personal story or experience can make the surgeon feel more connected to the content, making it easier to communicate.
36. Record in Segments
    • Small Chunks: Record the video in small, manageable segments. These can later be stitched together, making the process feel less daunting.
37. Invite a Spouse or Family Member
    • Comfortable Presence: If appropriate, involve a spouse or family member in the video. Their presence might help the surgeon feel more relaxed.
38. Use Familiar Phrases
    • Comfort Words: Encourage them to use phrases they often say to patients during consultations. This can make the video feel like a normal conversation rather than a performance.
39. Opt for a Casual Introduction
    • Informal Start: Start the video with a casual greeting or informal introduction to ease into the content naturally.
40. End with a Call to Action
    • Simple Closing: Have them end the video with a simple, clear call to action (e.g., “Call our office for more information”). This gives the video a purpose and helps focus their message.
41. Use First-Person Perspective
    • Speak Directly to the Viewer: Encourage them to use “you” and “your” in their speech, as if they are directly addressing the patient. This can make the communication feel more personal and less formal.
42. Start with Behind-the-Scenes Content
    • Office Tour or Daily Routine: Begin by filming behind-the-scenes content, like a tour of the office or a day in the life at the clinic. This is less intimidating and more relaxed.
43. Feature Success Stories
    • Highlight Transformations: Show before-and-after photos or discuss success stories. This can shift the focus from the surgeon to the positive outcomes of their work.
44. Use Testimonials as a Buffer
    • Patient-First Approach: Start with patient testimonials and then have the surgeon add a brief comment at the end. This allows them to ease into being on camera without being the main focus.
45. Make Use of Visual Aids
    • Infographics or Diagrams: Incorporate visual aids that the surgeon can reference. This not only adds value to the video but also gives them something to focus on instead of just the camera.
46. Encourage Interactive Content
    • Answer Common Questions: Record videos that answer frequently asked questions. This makes the content feel more like providing a service rather than self-promotion.
47. Film with a Trusted Colleague
    • Collaborative Filming: Have them film alongside a colleague or partner, sharing the camera time. This can make them feel less isolated and more supported.
48. Utilize Time-Limited Content
    • Stories or Reels: Encourage them to start with time-limited content like Instagram Stories or Facebook Reels, which disappear after 24 hours. This reduces the pressure of perfection.
49. Celebrate Small Wins
    • Post-Video Acknowledgment: After each video, acknowledge the effort and progress made, regardless of the outcome. Celebrating small wins can boost confidence over time.
50. Encourage Self-Reflection
    • Watch and Reflect: Have them watch their own videos in private and reflect on what they liked. This self-assessment can help them identify strengths and areas to improve without external pressure.

How Video Patient Education helps address concerns about plastic surgery 

1. Identify Common Misconceptions:
   • Patient Surveys: Conduct surveys or gather feedback to identify the most common misconceptions or concerns patients have about plastic surgery.
   • Frequent Questions: Use the most frequently asked questions from consultations or online inquiries to guide the topics of your educational content.
2. Use Simple, Clear Language:
   • Avoid Jargon: Ensure that the content is free from medical jargon, using simple and clear language that anyone can understand.
   • Step-by-Step Explanations: Break down complex procedures into easy-to-understand steps, explaining what happens before, during, and after the surgery.
3. Visual Aids and Demonstrations:
   • Infographics and Videos: Use infographics, videos, and animations to visually explain procedures, risks, benefits, and recovery processes. Visual content can be more effective than text in clarifying complex concepts.
   • Before-and-After Comparisons: Show before-and-after images to demonstrate realistic outcomes and set proper expectations.
4. Myth-Busting Content:
   • Address Common Myths: Create content specifically aimed at debunking myths, such as “Plastic surgery is only for the rich and famous” or “All surgeries leave noticeable scars.” This can be done through blog posts, videos, or social media posts.
   • Real Patient Stories: Use testimonials or case studies to show real-life examples that counteract common misconceptions.
5. Educational Series:
   • Procedure Spotlights: Develop a series of educational content, each focusing on a specific procedure. Include common concerns like safety, recovery time, and potential risks to provide a comprehensive understanding.
   • Recovery Guides: Provide detailed guides on what to expect during recovery, addressing concerns like pain management, downtime, and when patients can return to normal activities.
6. Interactive Content:
   • Live Q&A Sessions: Host live Q&A sessions where the surgeon can directly answer questions from potential patients, addressing their concerns in real-time.
   • Interactive Tools: Offer online quizzes or assessments that help patients determine if they are a good candidate for certain procedures, educating them in the process.
7. Testimonials and Case Studies:
   • Patient Experiences: Highlight patient experiences that align with common concerns (e.g., fear of anesthesia or concerns about natural-looking results). Show how these patients overcame their fears and were satisfied with their outcomes.
   • Case Study Videos: Produce videos that walk viewers through a patient’s entire journey, from consultation to recovery, to provide a full understanding of the process.

FAQs about Making Better Surgeon Videos

Q: What if my staff or surgeon don’t want to appear on camera?

• Many people don’t want to be on camera. Start with voiceover videos using slides, images, or animations. This builds confidence without the pressure of being on screen. Over time, they can move toward short introductions or casual Q&A clips. Synthesia and Heygen are video tools that can help make ‘headless’ videos.

Q: Do patients want to see the behind-the-scenes surgeon’s personality?

• Yes they do. Patients often choose a surgeon they feel they can trust. Authentic videos — even if slightly imperfect are real — they help patients connect on a human level before ever stepping into the clinic.

Q: Is it better to film in a studio or the clinic?

• For surgeons new to video making, filming in a familiar space like their office or consultation room feels more natural. Patients also prefer seeing real settings, as it feels more authentic than a staged studio.

Q: How do we stop a video from sounding too much like an advert?

• Focus on education, not sales. Talk about patient questions, common concerns, and simple tips. When the content is useful, it builds trust without feeling promotional.

Q: What if my surgeon freezes when the camera turns on?

• Use an interview style. Have a team member or colleague ask questions off-camera. Answering in conversation feels easier than delivering a speech.

Q: Can a surgeon make good videos without being “camera-ready”?

• Yes. Clean lighting, simple attire, and natural body language are enough. Patients don’t expect a polished TV presenter — they want warmth, clarity, and honesty.

Q: Do surgeons need a script, or is it better to speak naturally?

• Scripts can feel stiff. Bullet points work better. They keep the message on track while allowing the surgeon to speak in their natural style.

Q: How can we handle mistakes during recording?

• Remind the surgeon that editing fixes almost everything. Mistakes are normal. Recording multiple takes and stitching them together takes away the pressure of “getting it perfect” in one go.

Q: What types of videos work best if the surgeon wants to stay mostly off camera?

• Options include narrated procedure explanations, animations, slideshows, before-and-after image walkthroughs, or staff-led patient education clips with the surgeon only adding a short intro.

Q: How can video help if the surgeon already has a strong word-of-mouth reputation?

• Video extends that reputation online. Patients who hear about the surgeon can then watch a video to get a sense of their personality and approach before booking. This reinforces trust and speeds up decision-making.

Further Reading

• Best Plastic Surgery Videos and Surgeon Youtube Channels