Bryan J. Michelow, MD., FACS

Bryan J. Michelow, MD., FACS

Friday, May 11, 2012

A 4-Week Physician Assistant Elective in Plastic Surgery

The four weeks spent at Contemporary Cosmetic Surgery, Inc. are four weeks of my clinical rotations that I will never forget. 

As a PA student, I had the opportunity to work with and get to know an outstanding plastic surgeon and his amazing staff. Dr. Michelow has shown to be an excellent physician, who cares not only about his patients, but his students, and staff as well. He has extensive medical training and knowledge, which he is willing to share with all.

 This elective has been a great opportunity for knowledge growth, clinical skills, and patient encounters.  During my time with Dr. Michelow I was able to participate in many aspects of patient care and academic experiences.  They included:
- History and Physical examinations
- In office procedures: cosmetic fillers and muscle relaxant injections, wound care, I&Ds, punch biopsies, skin tag removal, suture placement and removal
- First assisting in reconstructive and hand surgeries presenting in the OR
- Observation and evaluation of many different skin pathologies including melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous carcinoma
- Attending a clinical suturing lab
- Accompanying Dr. Michelow to the residency meeting at University Hospital
- Participating in valuable research, allowing me to create a survey on cosmetic procedures

All students considering a plastic surgery rotation would be extremely lucky to have an opportunity with Dr. Michelow.  He is a wonderful and patient teacher who constantly provided me with the best possible clinical experience.  He was always teaching, presenting, and walking me through any procedure and patient care. 

With that being said, I highly recommend this clinical site as an elective rotation for all students interested in a plastic surgery rotation.

Hayley Griswold PA-S
University of Mount Union