How to Make Better Surgeon Videos – Tips for Making Patient Education Videos

Helping shy plastic surgeons create videos can be challenging but achievable with the right approach. Here are some tips and ideas that can help them feel more comfortable and produce effective content:

  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.

 

50 Top Tips to help shy plastic surgeons get started make 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.

10 Types of Videos for Plastic Surgeons to create 

  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 showcase your plastic surgeon’s personality on Video

  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.

Helpful Online Video Tips for Plastic Surgeons :

How to measure the effectiveness of your promotional videos:

  1. Engagement Rates: Monitor likes, shares, comments, and overall interaction on social media platforms where the videos are posted.
  2. View Count and Watch Time: Track the number of views and how long viewers are watching the videos. High watch time indicates that the content is engaging.
  3. Conversion Rates: Use tracking links or call-to-action buttons in the video to measure how many viewers take the next step, such as visiting the website or scheduling a consultation.
  4. Lead Generation: Measure the number of new inquiries or appointments made as a direct result of the videos, often tracked through unique landing pages or promotional codes mentioned in the video.
  5. Patient Feedback: Direct feedback from patients who mention the videos during consultations or through surveys can provide qualitative insights into the video’s impact.

Tools and apps to help with video recording and editing:

  1. iMovie (Mac/iOS): A simple, intuitive editing tool that allows basic video edits, transitions, and text overlays.
  2. Adobe Premiere Rush (Windows/macOS/iOS/Android): Offers more features than iMovie but is still user-friendly, allowing for drag-and-drop editing and easy sharing on social media.
  3. Canva (Online/iOS/Android): Known for graphic design, Canva also offers simple video editing features, including templates for social media videos.
  4. Loom (Online/iOS/Android): Perfect for recording videos with screen-sharing, great for creating tutorial-style content.
  5. InShot (iOS/Android): A mobile app that’s great for editing videos directly on your phone, offering filters, music, and text options.
  6. Quik by GoPro (iOS/Android): Ideal for creating quick, stylish videos with automated editing features.

Creating a supportive environment involves:

  1. Positive Reinforcement: Regularly acknowledge and celebrate small successes in video creation to build confidence.
  2. Provide Constructive Feedback: Offer gentle, constructive criticism that focuses on areas of improvement while also highlighting what was done well.
  3. Team Support: Involve the entire team in the process, making it a collaborative effort rather than placing all the pressure on the surgeon alone.
  4. Training and Resources: Provide training sessions or access to tutorials that help improve video skills without overwhelming them.
  5. Encourage Creativity: Allow the surgeon to explore different video styles and formats, making the process enjoyable rather than a chore.
  6. Allow Flexibility: Encourage surgeons to record at times when they feel most comfortable and to do multiple takes without pressure.

Props and tools that can enhance surgeon video engagement include:

  1. Before-and-After Photos: Using these to visually demonstrate the impact of procedures.
  2. Anatomical Models: To explain complex procedures or anatomy, making the content more understandable.
  3. Infographics and Charts: To visually present data, recovery timelines, or procedure steps.
  4. Interactive Tools: Use digital tools or apps to demonstrate procedure planning or simulate outcomes.
  5. Patient Testimonials: Featuring patients or their stories as props can create a more personal connection.
  6. Medical Instruments: Showcasing specific tools or devices used in procedures can add a professional touch.

Humour can play several roles in making videos more approachable:

  1. Humanising the Surgeon: Humour can make the surgeon seem more relatable and down-to-earth, breaking down barriers between them and potential patients.
  2. Increasing Engagement: Light-hearted content is more likely to be shared and engaged with on social media, broadening the video’s reach.
  3. Easing Tension: Many people are nervous about plastic surgery, and a bit of humour can help to ease their fears and make the idea of a consultation less intimidating.
  4. Differentiation: Humour can set the surgeon apart from competitors who may take a more serious or clinical approach, making their brand more memorable.

Repurposing videos can extend their reach and utility:

  1. Short Clips for Social Media: Break down longer videos into short clips or highlights for platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook.
  2. Embedded Videos on Website: Feature the full video or clips on relevant pages of the practice’s website, such as the homepage, blog posts, or service pages.
  3. Email Marketing: Include video content in email newsletters to provide visual interest and improve engagement rates.
  4. Video Blogs (Vlogs): Convert video content into written blog posts, embedding the video within the post to improve SEO and provide multiple ways for users to consume the content.
  5. YouTube Channel: Post full-length videos on YouTube, using SEO-friendly titles and descriptions to reach a broader audience.
  6. Story Highlights: Use Instagram and Facebook stories to showcase short, engaging parts of the videos, which can be saved as highlights for ongoing visibility.

Use your Videos in other Marketing Campaigns

  1. Marketing Content Calendar:
    • Consistency: Develop a content calendar that schedules regular video uploads alongside other marketing activities. This ensures videos are consistently posted, keeping the audience engaged.
    • Seasonal Themes: Align video content with seasonal marketing campaigns or awareness months (e.g., Skin Cancer Awareness Month) to enhance relevance and reach.
  2. Cross-Platform Promotion:
    • Social Media Sharing: Promote the videos across all social media channels to increase visibility. Tailor the video format to suit each platform (e.g., shorter clips for Instagram Reels, full videos for YouTube).
    • Email Marketing: Embed videos in email newsletters to increase engagement rates. Use catchy subject lines like “See Our Latest Transformations” to encourage clicks.
  3. SEO and Website Integration:
    • Video SEO: Optimize video titles, descriptions, and tags with relevant keywords to improve search engine ranking and make it easier for potential patients to find the content online.
    • Website Integration: Embed videos on the clinic’s website, particularly on landing pages related to the services featured in the videos. This enhances user experience and can improve conversion rates.
  4. Patient Journey Enhancement:
    • Pre-Consultation Education: Send specific videos to patients before their consultation to educate them about the procedure they’re interested in. This prepares them for the consultation and can shorten decision-making time.
    • Post-Procedure Follow-Up: Use videos as part of the post-procedure care plan, providing patients with recovery tips and reinforcing care instructions.
  5. Data-Driven Strategy:
    • Analytics Tracking: Monitor video performance through analytics tools. Track views, engagement, and conversions to understand what content resonates most with the audience.
    • Iterative Improvement: Use the data collected to refine and improve future video content, ensuring that the strategy evolves based on what works best.
  6. Collaboration and Partnerships:
    • Influencer Collaborations: Partner with local influencers or satisfied patients with a strong online presence to co-create video content. This can expand reach and lend credibility to the content.
    • Cross-Promotions: Collaborate with related businesses (e.g., skincare brands, fitness centers) to co-create videos that appeal to both audiences, broadening the clinic’s reach.
  7. Community Engagement:
    • Live Q&A Sessions: Host live Q&A sessions where the surgeon answers questions from the community. Promote these events through video teasers to generate interest and participation.
    • Patient Stories: Encourage patients to share their own video testimonials, which can be featured on the clinic’s social media and website. This builds a community around shared experiences and success stories.

Batch your Videos – To organize batch video recording sessions effectively:

  1. Planning and Pre-Production:
    • Script Preparation: Prepare scripts or bullet points for multiple videos ahead of time. This helps streamline the recording process and ensures that each session is efficient.
    • Theme-Based Recording: Group similar topics together so that the surgeon can maintain a consistent tone and mindset throughout the session. For example, batch record all educational videos on recovery tips in one go.
  2. Time Management:
    • Short Sessions: Schedule shorter recording sessions over multiple days rather than one long session. This prevents fatigue and maintains high energy levels for each video.
    • Breaks Between Takes: Include short breaks between recordings to allow the surgeon to relax and reset. This keeps the content fresh and reduces the risk of burnout.
  3. Support Team:
    • Delegate Tasks: Have a support team manage the technical aspects (lighting, camera setup, etc.) so the surgeon can focus solely on content delivery.
    • On-Site Editing: If possible, have a video editor present to quickly review and provide feedback on takes, allowing for immediate corrections and reducing the need for re-recordings.
  4. Efficiency in Setup:
    • Consistent Setup: Use the same setup (background, lighting, camera angles) for multiple videos to save time. This reduces the need for adjustments between videos.
    • Minimal Wardrobe Changes: Plan the wardrobe in a way that minimizes changes between videos to save time and keep the recording session moving smoothly.
  5. Post-Production Scheduling:
    • Staggered Editing: While batch recording multiple videos, stagger the editing process so that content can be released consistently over time, preventing the need for another batch session too soon.

To keep videos personal and natural, yet professional:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. Authentic Settings:
    • 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.

Behind-the-scenes content can be very appealing as it offers a more personal and transparent view of the surgeon’s practice:

  1. Office Tour:
    • Clinic Walkthrough: Offer a guided tour of the clinic, showing patients what to expect when they arrive. Highlight the cleanliness, modern equipment, and comfortable patient areas.
  2. Meet the Team:
    • Staff Introductions: Create videos that introduce key members of the team, such as nurses, anesthesiologists, and administrative staff. This helps patients feel more familiar and comfortable with the people they will interact with.
  3. A Day in the Life:
    • Surgeon’s Routine: Showcase a typical day in the surgeon’s life, from morning preparations to patient consultations and surgeries. This provides insight into the surgeon’s work ethic and dedication.
  4. Procedure Prepping:
    • Preparation Process: Film the preparation process before a surgery, such as sterilizing instruments, setting up the operating room, and going over patient charts. This demystifies the surgical process and emphasizes the care and precision involved.
  5. Patient Journey:
    • From Consultation to Recovery: Follow a patient’s journey through the consultation, surgery, and recovery phases (with consent). This comprehensive view can reassure potential patients by showing the full process and outcome.
  6. Training and Learning:
    • Continuing Education: Share content about the surgeon’s ongoing education, such as attending workshops or conferences. This demonstrates a commitment to staying updated with the latest advancements in the field.

Short, time-limited content like Instagram Stories can be a powerful tool for building a surgeon’s online presence:

  1. Real-Time Updates:
    • Live Procedures: Share quick updates or behind-the-scenes glimpses during surgeries or consultations (with patient consent). This gives followers a real-time look into the practice.
    • Announcements: Use Stories for time-sensitive announcements, such as upcoming events, new services, or limited-time offers, encouraging followers to take quick action.
  2. Engagement Tools:
    • Polls and Questions: Utilize the interactive features of Instagram Stories, such as polls, quizzes, and question stickers, to engage with followers and gather their opinions or questions.
    • Feedback Requests: Ask followers for their input on future content, what they liked about previous videos, or what they’d like to see more of.
  3. Teasers and Previews:
    • Upcoming Content: Use Stories to tease longer videos or upcoming content. For example, share a short clip or highlight from an upcoming YouTube video to build anticipation.
    • Behind-the-Scenes: Share snippets of the day-to-day life in the clinic, such as setting up for a procedure, to keep followers engaged with frequent updates.
  4. Showcasing Results:
    • Before-and-After: Highlight before-and-after results of procedures in quick, visually impactful stories. This is effective for grabbing attention and showing the surgeon’s skills.
    • Patient Testimonials: Share brief video testimonials from satisfied patients. Even just a few seconds of genuine feedback can be very persuasive.
  5. Cross-Promotions:
    • Collaborations: Partner with other local businesses or influencers to cross-promote content. For example, a wellness influencer could share a Story from their consultation at the clinic, reaching a broader audience.

Repurposing content across multiple platforms helps to maximize reach and exposure

  1. Adjust Content for Platform Specifics:
    • Instagram and Facebook: Break down longer videos into shorter clips or highlight reels that suit the quick-consumption nature of these platforms. Use captions and hashtags to increase visibility.
    • YouTube: Post full-length educational videos or patient testimonials. YouTube is ideal for in-depth content, where viewers often search for detailed information.
    • Blog Posts: Convert video content into blog posts. For example, a video discussing the benefits of a procedure can be transcribed and posted as an article, improving SEO and offering another format for the audience to consume.
    • Email Newsletters: Include video snippets or links to full videos in email newsletters to drive traffic to the website or YouTube channel.
    • LinkedIn: Share professional achievements, patient stories, or educational content that highlights the surgeon’s expertise, tailored to a professional audience.
  2. Use Consistent Branding:
    • Unified Message: Ensure that all repurposed content maintains a consistent tone, style, and branding across platforms. This helps to build a cohesive brand image and makes the content instantly recognizable.
    • Cross-Promotion: Encourage followers on one platform to connect on others by sharing exclusive content. For example, use Instagram to promote a detailed blog post or YouTube video.
  3. Create Evergreen Content:
    • Timeless Topics: Focus on creating content that remains relevant over time, such as general procedure explanations, recovery tips, and patient care advice. This type of content can be reshared across platforms over months or even years.
    • Seasonal Adjustments: Modify evergreen content slightly to fit seasonal trends or upcoming events (e.g., updating a general skincare video with tips for winter or summer).
  4. Leverage Analytics:
    • Performance Tracking: Use analytics tools to track which content performs best on each platform. Repurpose top-performing content more aggressively across platforms to maximize impact.
    • Tailor to Audience: Adjust content based on the demographics and behaviors of each platform’s audience. For instance, Instagram might have a younger audience, so content can be more casual, while LinkedIn might require a more professional tone.

Educational content is vital for addressing patient 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.

Involve the surgical team in video making to create more dynamic and engaging videos

  1. Team Introductions:
    • Meet the Team: Create a video introducing each member of the surgical team, highlighting their roles, expertise, and contributions. This humanizes the practice and helps patients feel more comfortable with the entire team.
    • Personal Stories: Have team members share their personal stories or why they love working in the practice, adding a personal touch to the content.
  2. Collaborative Content:
    • Team Demonstrations: Film team members demonstrating different aspects of a procedure or discussing their roles during surgery. For example, a nurse could explain pre-operative care, while an anesthesiologist talks about patient safety during the procedure.
    • Roundtable Discussions: Host a roundtable discussion featuring the surgeon and key staff members discussing common patient concerns, trends in plastic surgery, or the practice’s approach to patient care. This format showcases the team’s collective expertise.
  3. Behind-the-Scenes with the Team:
    • Day in the Life of the Team: Show a day in the life of the surgical team, including preparation for surgeries, patient interactions, and post-operative care. This behind-the-scenes glimpse helps build trust and transparency.
    • Team-Building Activities: Film team-building activities or community events that involve the practice staff. This not only shows the team’s camaraderie but also highlights the positive work environment.
  4. Patient Interaction Videos:
    • Team-Patient Interactions: Record videos that showcase interactions between the team and patients, such as consultations, follow-up appointments, or patient care after surgery. This emphasizes the collaborative approach to patient care and reassures patients that they’ll be well-supported throughout their journey.
  5. Educational Content Featuring the Team:
    • Specialist Insights: Have different team members contribute to educational videos, sharing their specific knowledge. For example, a dietitian on staff might provide post-surgery nutritional advice, or a physical therapist could discuss recovery exercises.
    • FAQ Sessions: Create videos where team members answer frequently asked questions related to their specialties. This provides a well-rounded perspective and gives patients confidence in the entire team.
  6. Testimonial Support:
    • Supporting Patient Testimonials: Team members can be part of patient testimonial videos, discussing their role in the patient’s care and how they worked together to achieve the desired outcome. This shows the collaborative nature of the practice.

Showcase your surgeon’s personal hobbies or interests in Videos:

  1. Show the Human side of the Surgeon:
    • Relatability: Sharing hobbies or personal interests helps humanize the surgeon, making them more relatable and approachable. Patients often feel more comfortable with a surgeon they perceive as a well-rounded individual.
    • Building Trust: When patients see the surgeon as a real person with interests outside of their professional life, it can build trust and foster a stronger patient-surgeon relationship.
  2. Differentiation:
    • Stand Out from Competitors: Highlighting unique hobbies or interests can differentiate the surgeon from competitors, giving them a distinct personal brand that appeals to potential patients.
    • Memorability: A surgeon with an interesting hobby or passion is more likely to be remembered by patients, which can be beneficial for word-of-mouth referrals.
  3. Connection with Patients:
    • Shared Interests: If a surgeon shares a hobby or interest that aligns with a patient’s, it can create an instant connection. This common ground can make consultations feel more like a friendly conversation.
    • Increased Patient Engagement: Patients are more likely to engage with content that showcases a surgeon’s personal side, leading to increased social media interaction and brand loyalty.
  4. Content Variety:
    • Diverse Content: Incorporating personal hobbies into promotional content adds variety to the content mix, making the surgeon’s online presence more dynamic and engaging.
    • Potential for Broader Appeal: Content that showcases a surgeon’s personal interests might attract a broader audience, including those who share similar hobbies or are simply curious about the surgeon’s life outside of the operating room.
  5. Positive Brand Image:
    • Well-Rounded Professional: Showing that the surgeon has a life outside of work portrays them as a balanced, well-rounded individual, contributing to a positive brand image.
    • Community Engagement: Hobbies that involve community activities (e.g., volunteering, participating in local events) can highlight the surgeon’s commitment to the community, enhancing their reputation.

Personality-focused videos with a broader content plan can build patient trust and your brand:

  1. Complementary Content:
    • Balanced Mix: Include personality-focused videos alongside educational, testimonial, and procedural content to create a well-rounded content strategy. This mix ensures that while the surgeon’s expertise is highlighted, their personal side also shines through.
    • Contextual Integration: Use personality videos to introduce or close educational content. For example, a video where the surgeon shares a personal story could precede or follow a detailed explanation of a procedure, adding a personal touch to professional content.
  2. Social Media Engagement:
    • Social Media Series: Develop a series of personality-focused videos for social media, sharing different aspects of the surgeon’s life over time. This keeps the audience engaged and looking forward to the next installment.
    • Engagement Boost: Encourage followers to engage with personality-focused videos by asking questions or sharing their own experiences related to the hobbies or interests featured. This fosters a sense of community and trust.
  3. Patient Onboarding:
    • Introductory Videos: Use personality-focused videos as part of the onboarding process for new patients. These videos can be sent in follow-up emails after a consultation or included in welcome packets to help new patients feel more connected to the surgeon.
    • Personal Touch in Follow-Ups: Include personality videos in follow-up communications with patients, such as post-procedure emails or check-ins. This reinforces the personal connection throughout the patient journey.
  4. Website and Blog Integration:
    • Website About Page: Feature these videos on the “About” page of the practice’s website, where potential patients can learn more about the surgeon’s background, interests, and approach to care.
    • Blog Posts: Pair personality videos with blog posts that explore the surgeon’s interests in more detail, offering a deeper insight into their life outside of the clinic. This creates a narrative that patients can connect with.
  5. Community and Event Promotion:
    • Event Highlights: If the surgeon participates in community events, hobbies, or charitable activities, create videos around these events and promote them as part of the practice’s community involvement strategy.
    • Live Streaming: Use live video streams during these events to show the surgeon in real-time, engaging with the community. This real-time interaction can significantly boost trust and rapport.
  6. Consistency in Branding:
    • Authentic Branding: Ensure that these videos align with the overall brand message of the practice. Consistency in tone, style, and messaging across all content types builds a cohesive and trustworthy brand image.
    • Patient-Centric Branding: Position the surgeon’s personality as an extension of the practice’s commitment to patient-centered care, emphasizing that the surgeon’s personal values and interests translate into a caring, compassionate approach to patient treatment.

Examples of Plastic Surgeons Making Great Videos

USA PLASTIC SURGEONS MAKING VIDEOS

  1. Dr. Anthony Youn
    • Specialty: Dr. Youn is a holistic plastic surgeon known for his educational and engaging content on platforms like YouTube and TikTok.
    • Tips:
      • Educational Content: Focus on educating your audience. Dr. Youn’s videos often explain common myths and facts about plastic surgery, making complex procedures easy to understand for the general public.
      • Use of Humour: He often incorporates humour to make his content more relatable and less intimidating, which helps in broadening his audience reach.
  2. Dr. Cat Begovic
    • Specialty: Dr. Cat is known for her precise and artistic approach to plastic surgery, especially in body contouring.
    • Tips:
      • Before-and-After Stories: Dr. Cat effectively uses before-and-after videos to showcase her work. This visual content is powerful in demonstrating the results of her procedures.
      • Empathy and Connection: She often shares her personal experiences and connects with her audience by discussing the emotional aspects of plastic surgery, which resonates deeply with potential patients.
  3. Dr. Michael Salzhauer (Dr. Miami)
    • Specialty: Dr. Miami is famous for his lively and entertaining approach to sharing his surgical procedures on social media, especially Snapchat and Instagram.
    • Tips:
      • Show the Process: Dr. Miami is known for live-streaming surgeries, providing a transparent look into what happens during procedures. This builds trust and demystifies plastic surgery for his audience.
      • Engage with Trends: He stays relevant by engaging with social media trends and memes, making his content timely and shareable, which helps in reaching a broader audience.
  4. Dr. Sheila Nazarian
    • Specialty: Dr. Nazarian, based in Beverly Hills, is known for her expertise in aesthetic plastic surgery and for being the host of the Netflix series “Skin Decision: Before and After.”
    • Tips:
      • Professional and Polished Content: Dr. Nazarian’s videos are highly polished and professional, which helps to reflect the high-end nature of her practice. Investing in good production quality can significantly enhance the perceived value of the services.
      • Focus on Patient Stories: By highlighting patient journeys, Dr. Nazarian makes her content relatable and emotionally engaging, which resonates well with viewers.
  5. Dr. Jason Emer
    • Specialty: Dr. Emer is a cosmetic dermatologist and plastic surgeon known for his advanced aesthetic procedures and high-tech approaches.
    • Tips:
      • Showcase Cutting-Edge Techniques: Dr. Emer uses his videos to demonstrate the latest techniques and technologies in the field, positioning himself as a leader in innovation. For surgeons, highlighting any unique or advanced techniques can set them apart from competitors.
      • Engage with Followers: He frequently interacts with his audience by responding to comments and hosting Q&A sessions, making him accessible and approachable.
  6. Dr. Paul Nassif
    • Specialty: Dr. Nassif is best known as a co-host of the reality TV show “Botched,” where he performs reconstructive surgery on patients who have had unsuccessful surgeries in the past.
    • Tips:
      • Transparency in Complex Cases: Dr. Nassif’s videos often focus on the challenges and intricacies of reconstructive surgery. Being transparent about the risks and realities of surgery can help in managing patient expectations and building trust.
      • Leveraging Media Exposure: His television presence greatly amplifies his online content. Surgeons can consider media appearances or collaborations to expand their reach.
  7. Dr. Simon Ourian
    • Specialty: Dr. Ourian is a cosmetic dermatologist in Beverly Hills who has gained popularity among celebrities and is known for his non-surgical aesthetic treatments.
    • Tips:
      • Celebrity Endorsements: Dr. Ourian frequently features celebrities in his videos, which boosts his credibility and attracts a broader audience. Partnering with influencers or satisfied high-profile clients can be an effective marketing strategy.
      • Visual Impact: His videos often focus on the visual transformation of patients, using before-and-after comparisons to highlight the effectiveness of his treatments.

AUSTRALIAN PLASTIC SURGEONS MAKING GREAT VIDEOS