Plastic surgery stands at the intersection of medical science and aesthetic enhancement, offering transformative procedures to address a wide range of concerns related to physical appearance. With advancements in technology and surgical techniques, plastic surgeons specialize in various areas, including facial reconstruction, body contouring, and breast augmentation. These procedures are not only aimed at enhancing one’s external appearance but also at boosting confidence and improving quality of life.
Facial plastic and reconstructive surgery represent a subset of plastic surgery focused on addressing facial imperfections, injuries, and congenital deformities. Surgeons in this field employ intricate surgical techniques to restore facial harmony, correct asymmetry, and rejuvenate facial features. From rhinoplasty to facelifts and eyelid surgery, these procedures aim to achieve natural-looking results while addressing patients’ unique aesthetic goals and concerns. In addition to cosmetic enhancements, facial plastic and reconstructive surgery play a crucial role in restoring function and improving quality of life for individuals affected by facial trauma or congenital anomalies.
In this interview, we delve into the world of Dr. Eirini Zagko, a renowned plastic surgeon whose dedication to her craft has garnered admiration and gratitude from patients around the world.
With a focus on facial plastic and reconstructive surgery, Dr. Zagkou offers insight into her journey, motivations, and the transformative power of her work. Through candid reflections, she shares her passion for helping individuals regain confidence and embrace their true selves.
From Childhood Dreams to Surgical Mastery
Dr. Zagkous journey into the world of medicine started very early in her life as she explained to us.
“Even as a child, one of my favorite games was Operation, and I loved watching surgery videos on the Discovery channel. In high school, I started volunteering at a local hospital in a small town in Greece. When I first stepped into the OR, I felt it was my calling and I could do nothing else. I began assisting in surgery and performing surgery at the age of 18, and this confirmed my desire to become a surgeon.”
At this point, it becomes very clear what career path Dr. Zagkou wanted to follow.
“I went to medical school in Slovakia, where I could figure out my further specialization. The next major step was getting into a highly competitive Head and Neck Surgery training program in the UK, at Queen Alexandra program. I couldn’t be luckier to spend four years with outstanding professionals there and develop knowledge and skills for performing Head and Neck Reconstructive surgery. Then, I decided to start my own practice and returned to Greece.
Beyond a Job: Dr. Zagkou’s Personal Mission in Facial Plastic Surgery
When we asked Dr. Zagkou about her main motivation to keep doing her extraordinary work, she emphasized the personal nature of HER profession beyond being merely a job.
“I believe that I was born to be a surgeon and a healer. It’s not just a job, it’s my nature. Part of what I like about surgery is working with my hands and seeing the immediate effects of my actions, the difference that I can make to somebody’s life.
Dr. Zagkou also highlighted her commitment to addressing insecurities and lack of confidence stemming from societal objectification based on appearance.
I am specialized in Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. Unfortunately, people tend to objectify others based on appearance, which leads to insecurities and lack of confidence. My goal is to help people feel good about themselves and claim that confidence back. I always sit and talk with my prospective patients to understand why they want to undergo the procedure and what needs to change for their life to improve.”
And when one life improves, it has a ripple effect. I strongly believe that we get kinder when we feel good about ourselves. I’ve witnessed some incredible life-changing transformation stories over the last decade.” She shared.
The Demands of Surgery: Precision, People Skills, and the Perfectionist’s Dilemma
Dr. Zagkou explained to us the demanding nature of her profession as a surgeon, highlighting the necessity for precise work, intense concentration, and meticulous attention to detail.
“It’s a very demanding job. I’m lucky because I’ve always enjoyed precise work that requires intense concentration and meticulous attention to detail. It also takes people skills, the ability to understand a patient’s motivation, and to take care of a patient every step of their journey.
And, obviously, in surgery, there is no room for mistakes. When we make mistakes, people can get hurt. So, being a perfectionist is a must, but in daily life, it can turn out both a blessing and a curse.”
Dr. Zagkou’s Entrepreneurial Ventures
Dr. Zagkou gives a lot of value to education and right now she is doing her second postgraduate degree. And because she has a very strong entrepreneur side, right now she is working in collaboration with her mother to launch their own skin care beauty line.
“My mother is a pharmacist, so I learned a lot from her while studying in university. She’s also showing me how I handle my patients and communicate with them. And the perfectionism I mentioned earlier – I got that from her.” She shared, and right now, their main goal with their new venture is to create products that minimize people’s need to go to a clinic for aesthetic procedures.
In the journey of Dr. Eirini Zagkou, we witness the convergence of passion, precision, and compassion in the world of plastic surgery. Her dedication to transforming lives through facial plastic and reconstructive surgery reflects a deeply ingrained belief in the power of her profession to heal and uplift. With a childhood fascination for surgery evolving into a lifelong commitment, Dr. Zagkou’s journey exemplifies the intertwining of personal calling and professional mastery.
Dr. Zagkou’s compassionate approach to surgery addresses societal insecurities and fosters confidence. Her commitment to excellence and empathy reflects a broader ethos of kindness and empowerment. Through education and entrepreneurship, she reshapes plastic surgery, advocating for self-care and empowerment. Her story exemplifies the transformative power of passion and perseverance in healthcare.
Credits:
Photographer: Alex Tsitouridis @alex_tsitouridis
Model: Dr. Eirini Zagkou @dr_eirini_zagkou
PR: @say__media
