We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Demetri Arnaoutakis. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Demetri below.

Demetri, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Do you think your parents have had a meaningful impact on you and your journey?

I have two older brothers, George and Dean. The three of us were single-handedly raised by our mother Eleni, who spent 30 years as an elementary school teacher. She raised us to be very dedicated to our education. We were not allowed to go out and play outside or spend time with friends until we completed our homework. She encouraged us to get involved in team sports as well because she valued team work. My brothers and I all competed in soccer and football growing up and ultimately earned scholarships to Columbia University for soccer. The dedication and work ethic we developed as young children transitioned to adulthood and has served us well in our medical careers.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers

I am a facial plastic surgeon with offices in Tampa Florida and Beverly Hills California. My track to becoming a plastic surgeon was a long one but very worthwhile. I started in New York City as a pre-medical student at Columbia University where I also played on the varsity soccer team. During those four years I learned valuable lessons of teamwork and dedication to my education. I return to Florida where I enrolled at the University of Florida College of medicine. During my first year anatomy class, I became enthralled by facial anatomy. This passion led me to the field of head and neck surgery. I then moved to Dallas, Texas where I spent 5 years at one of the best Otolaryngology-head & neck surgery residency programs in the country. During this time I had several mentors who helped train and guide me. From there, I further specialzed in facial plastic surgery at the world renowned Lasky Clinic in Beverly Hills, California. It was during this year where I truly learned the art of plastic surgery. I learned advanced surgical techniques as well as the importance of technology in our field. Every step of the way I developed relationships, friendships and mentorships that have endured over the years. Perhaps that is what I am most proud of.

Other than training/knowledge, what do you think is most helpful for succeeding in your field?

If you love what you do, then you’ll never feel like you worked a day in your life. It is an old adage but still rings true. I think it is so important to find something your passionate about and go after it. Work at it and be persistent. There will be failures in your career. It’s not a matter of if, but when. More importantly, it’s how you respond to failure. Do you quit? Or do you learn from prior mistakes and shortcomings? Do you improve and find a way forward? That’s what important.

What do you think helped you build your reputation within your market?

Fortunately, I am a Tampa native. I grew up here and am a graduate of Berkeley Preparatory School. During my time there, I was a Varsity soccer and football player but also was very studious. I believe the commitment and dedication I invested during my teenage years earned trust and respect from those around me. This has endured into my adulthood now as a local plastic surgeon. I treat lots of patients who knew me from those days and fortunately have faith in me to care for them the best way possible.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.drdemetrimd.com
• Instagram: @drdemetri
• Other: email: [email protected]