This year marks a significant anniversary for ISAPS as we return to Asia for the Olympiad World Congress in Singapore! With just over 40 days until the congress begins, we are excited to meet one of the many organizers behind this year's comprehensive program. Join Dr. Matthew Yeo as he shares insights about the session lineup in Singapore and his reflection on the development of our specialty!

ISAPS: What is the significance of hosting this year’s Olympiad in Singapore, and how is Asian aesthetic surgery reflected in the scientific program?

YEO: It is with tremendous pleasure and honor that we are hosting the ISAPS Olympiad here in Asia, for the first time in Singapore. The world’s population consists of many different ethnicities, all with different anatomical considerations as well as aesthetic ideals. More than half the world’s population resides in Asia, and we feel that it would be timely and relevant to introduce content on Asian aesthetic surgery to the scientific program. Globalization has shrunk our world, and we are more likely than not to encounter more international patients in our individual practices. We are at the cusp of ushering in a Renaissance age of enlightenment in aesthetic surgery and believe that ethnically-appropriate aesthetic surgery is a big part of this.

Singapore has deep historical roots as a cosmopolitan city and a melting pot of many different peoples and cultures, both Western and Eastern. Its architecture and urban planning are prime examples of this. As such, we feel that Singapore is a standout choice as the first Asian ISAPS Olympiad host country, and we look forward to giving you our warm welcome here!

ISAPS: As a leader in our specialty, in your opinion, how has the perception of Asian aesthetic surgery changed over the past 5-10 years, and what do you think are some of the main reasons behind this shift?

YEO: In the past two decades, Asia has seen the rise of some of the fastest-growing economies in the world, and the demand for aesthetic surgery has increased dramatically. The social stigma associated with aesthetic surgery has also eroded over the years; it has become socially acceptable and, in fact, often considered desirable. In the past, aesthetic surgery in Asia involved the incorporation of Western techniques, with the aim of producing Western aesthetic norms.  There is a gradual but definite shift in recent years towards ethically-appropriate aesthetic surgery that enhances the inherent anatomy of the Asian face and achieves a distinct set of beauty ideals. We now recognize that there is no “one single standard” for aesthetic ideals and that a multi-ethnic and multi-centric approach is appropriate, and is the path for the future.

ISAPS: From your perspective as ISAPS National Secretary for Singapore, what factors do you believe contribute to the success of ISAPS, and how is this reflected in continued learning initiatives? 

YEO: ISAPS is the largest professional organization for aesthetic plastic surgeons worldwide, and Singapore is proud to be part of this family.  As with all organizations, ISAPS relies on its people, the members and its leaders, for its success. I am inspired to be surrounded by this incredibly motivated and selfless community dedicated to professional education and betterment, patient safety, and advocacy. We know the hard work and commitment required behind the scenes for each of these initiatives. To be able to sustain these successes over the years, and across different generations of members and leaders, is a strong testament to its success. A large part of its success is related to the fact that it is a nimble organization that quickly adapts to the needs of its members and the public. The leaders have their ears to the ground and channel their resources in directions that keep it important and relevant to all.

ISAPS: Finally, what does it mean for you to be a part of the #ISAPSFamily?

YEO: Being part of a family means working for and looking out for each other; the #ISAPSFamily has a strong tradition of member support. It constantly explores methods of helping members and supporting their practices, and we constantly seek to grow our family and its membership.