SA Monthly Magazine

Meet Dr. Denise R Hamlin MD hamlindenise@hotmail.com Empress Aesthetics, LLC. I was extremely honored by the invitation to join the phenomenal team of editors at San Antonio Monthly Magazine. As the Medical Editor for this cutting edge publication, my vision is to inform our readers of the latest medical developments, and to educate them on issues related to health maintenance exams, wellness medicine, and anti-aging treatments.

A brief narrative about myself; I have the utmost respect for the field of medicine and all its specialties. In my youth, I had no aspirations of becoming an MD, more specifically, an Anesthesiologist. It was an undertaking I pursued after much deliberation. My awareness of leading a balanced life was instilled in me early on, and I came to appreciate its importance at a very young age. Despite the hesitancy I may have had, I always felt the gentle hand of something greater guiding me throughout my chosen path.

I was born and raised in San Antonio and chose to complete my undergraduate and medical education here. The encouragement of my family played a vital role in my success. While choosing internship and residency programs, I wanted to explore all the places one hears of and dreams of visiting. I trained in New York City and Washington DC. The cultivation of my individuality was also emphasized early on. The experiences and personal growth I obtained by leaving my comfort zone were phenomenal! I completed my residency, passed my board exams, and got a job…and yet, I felt there was still something missing.

I was always intrigued with anti-aging treatments. I choose to approach medicine from both an Eastern and Western philosophy, treating the body as a whole. I was especially drawn to the advancements in medical aesthetics.

Eager to learn more, I sought to further my knowledge and competency by taking numerous advanced aesthetic training courses for physicians. I worked tirelessly at perfecting techniques at seminars and via preceptorships with mentors. I practiced on anyone willing to sit still long enough! The opportunity for free Botox and fillers beckons a long line of volunteers! I am eternally grateful for their trust.

So where does a board certified anesthesiologist go from here? Needless to say, I am unaware of any current medical school curriculum that touches on any aspect of business development. I read voraciously and learned how to form my own corporation. It was a tedious and extremely rewarding process. I was blessed with a flourishing career as an anesthesiologist, which has facilitated the exploration of my passion for aesthetics. I am currently a full partner in the largest anesthesia group in San Antonio, and am blessed to have my own aesthetics practice, Empress Aesthetics, LLC. Self-fulfillment in life is key. I never allowed anyone or anything stop me from accomplishing my dreams. I hope that no one reading this article ever does. Life is too short. It has been my privilege to learn this by having been entrusted with the intimate care of many wonderful patients.