s 2024 draws to a close and 2025 is on the horizon, I find myself again in a familiar place—straddling the past and the future. Much like my work as a plastic surgeon, where the careful art of reshaping and refinement often involves reflection and anticipation, the end of each year offers a perfect moment to pause, take stock, and prepare for what’s next.
This year has been a whirlwind (isn’t every year?), and as we say goodbye to 2024, I want to thank all of you—my incredible patients, my dedicated team, and my wonderful colleagues—for making it unforgettable. Together, we’ve tackled challenges, celebrated successes, and shared a few laughs along the way.
So, grab your coffee (or glass of champagne), settle in, and reflect on the highs, lessons, and light-hearted moments of this past year and what we can look forward to in 2025.
2024: A Year of Growth, Change, and Learning
If there’s one thing I’ve learned in surgery and life, it’s this: nothing stays the same. And that’s a good thing! Growth is vital—personal, professional, reconstructive or aesthetic. 2024 was all about growth in ways we couldn’t have imagined.
New Techniques, New Horizons:
This year, we embraced cutting-edge technologies and refined techniques that helped us provide even more natural, beautiful results. From new approaches to facelifts and body contouring to the increasing popularity of non-invasive procedures like injectables and skin care treatments and refinements in cancer reconstruction, 2024 has been a year of pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. Every patient is unique, and this year I was reminded once again that surgery is as much about art as it is science. The best outcomes come from blending precision with a deep understanding of human beauty and dignity.
The Unexpected—Embrace the Curveballs:
Every surgeon knows that no two cases are the same. A new challenge pops up when you think you’ve seen it all. It’s humbling, really, and a reminder that life is unpredictable. One moment, you’re performing a reconstructive procedure; the next moment, your patient’s body decides to throw you a curveball. But isn’t that what keeps us sharp? In 2024,we learned to pivot with grace—because flexibility is key in the operating room and life.
Patient Success Stories (a.k.a. My Favourite Part of the Job):
There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of seeing a patient beam with newfound confidence. Whether it’s a subtle refinement or a transformative procedure, the joy of helping someone feel their best never gets old. Thank you to every patient who trusted me with their journey this year. It’s an honour and a privilege to be part of your transformation.
The Team: My Lifeline, My Support System
Now, let me take a moment to acknowledge the incredible people who make this practice run like a well-oiled machine. To my amazing team—you are the heartbeat of this office. From the front desk to the OR, your hard work, compassion, and relentless dedication have made 2024 successful. You are the unsung heroes who keep everything flowing smoothly, and I couldn’t do what I do without you.
Let’s face it: a particular chaos comes with running a medical practice, but you all manage to handle it professionally—yes, with a healthy dose of humour. Whether it’s keeping a nervous patient calm or working a million details of a busy day, your efforts don’t go unnoticed. So, here’s to the laughs, the teamwork, and the countless times we’ve “pivoted” (and maybe shared an eye roll or two) to make it through another day. I couldn’t be more grateful.
What’s in Store for 2025: The Year of Refinement
If 2024 was about growth and expansion, I’m dubbing 2025 the Year of Refinement. It’s not just about doing more—it’s about doing better. Here’s what I’m excited about as we look ahead:
Focus on Patient Experience:
Next year, we’re continuing to fine-tune our practice in ways that enhance your patient experience. From streamlining appointment processes to expanding our educational resources, 2025 is all about making sure you feel supported and informed at every stage of your journey. After all, surgery is a partnership—your comfort and confidence are just as important as the final result.
More Innovation in Aesthetic Procedures:
Plastic surgery is always evolving, and 2025 will bring even more exciting innovations. From advanced minimally invasive treatments to new methods in surgical precision, we’re on the cusp of breakthroughs that will continue to raise the bar for aesthetic and reconstructive results. I’m thrilled to be on this journey with all of you as we explore the latest developments and how they can improve patient outcomes.
Investing in Education and Training:
One of my personal goals for 2025 is to continue honing my craft through ongoing education and training. The best surgeons never stop learning, and I’m excited to attend conferences, participate in workshops, and collaborate with colleagues worldwide. Plastic surgery is an ever-changing field, and staying at the forefront of these advancements means better care for all of you
Life Lessons for 2024: Balance, Patience, and Perspective
At this time of year, it’s not just about professional reflection—it’s also about those broader life lessons that tend to crystallise as we approach January 1st. Here are a few that I’ve been mulling over and that might resonate with you, too:
Balance is a Moving Target:
We all strive for balance, but let’s be honest—it’s never a fixed point. One day, you’re on top of everything; the next day, life throws a curveball (or three). And that’s okay! Whether in surgery or life, the key is not to get discouraged when things shift. Keep adjusting, keep refining—that’s where real progress happens.
Patience is a Virtue (Really, It Is):
Both surgery and life require patience. Whether you’re healing from a procedure or the inevitable ups and downs of the year, give yourself the time and space you need. Trust the process. Sometimes, the most beautiful outcomes take time to reveal themselves.
Perspective is Everything:
One thing I’ve learned this year is the importance of perspective. There will always be challenges—some big, some small—but how we see them makes all the difference. When faced with a challenging situation, I try to remind myself: “How will I look back on this a year from now?” It’s amazing how that simple shift can help put things in focus.
Gratitude for the Journey
Finally, as we head into 2025, I want to express my deep gratitude to every one of you. To my patients, thank you for your trust and the privilege of being part of your transformative journey. To my team, thank you for your unwavering support and dedication. And to my colleagues, thank you for the collaboration, the shared knowledge, and the camaraderie.
2024 has been a fantastic ride, full of lessons, laughter, and unexpected detours (as always). I can’t wait to see what 2025 has in store for all of us—and I’m excited to continue sculpting the future together.
Here’s to a year of refinement, growth, and joy!
Holiday Update! 🎄
Amori and I will take a well-deserved break to recharge and spend time with loved ones from 21 December to 5 January, returning refreshed and ready to assist you on 6 January.
Our wonderful wound care sisters will be here to look after all recently operated patients, ensuring you’re well cared for.
If you need to contact us, you can still reach the practice at manager@drdehanstruwig.co.za or send us a WhatsApp message at 073 821 0578. Just a heads-up: replies might take a little longer than usual.
Wishing you a joyful festive season and a bright, happy start to the New Year! 🌟
