Lisa Espinoza, MD, owner and founder of La Chelé Medical Aesthetics, is a transformative force in medical aesthetics and laser medicine, combining passion, leadership, and innovation in her work. Her journey from professional ballerina to pioneering physician speaks to her dedication and versatility. In 2007, Dr. Espinoza founded La Chelé Medical Aesthetics, a practice that has grown into four locations and ranks in the top 1% of injectors nationwide. Her commitment to patient safety and her forward-thinking approach has positioned her practice as a benchmark in the fields of cosmetic dermatology and regenerative medicine.

Dr. Espinoza is also deeply invested in her community, leading her team in donating to over 250 nonprofits in the tri-state area. As an influential voice in her field, she serves on advisory boards for major pharmaceutical companies, contributes to clinical studies, and educates thousands of professionals across the country. Her work extends beyond medicine, inspiring and mentoring women in STEM through initiatives like Girls Who Code, as well as serving on the Board of Trustees at the Pennington School. Dr. Espinoza’s journey is marked by resilience, from overcoming her own struggles with acne to self-funding her education and building her practice from her living room, proving that with grit and vision, it’s possible to make a lasting impact not only in one’s field but also in the lives of others.

We asked Lisa…

What inspired you to pursue your current career or passion?

My journey into the world of aesthetics began with my own struggles with severe acne and melasma. I understand firsthand how challenging skin issues can be, affecting self-esteem from adolescence into adulthood. This personal experience has cultivated a deep empathy for others facing similar battles. I believe that our skin is a reflection of our inner health and vitality, and how we feel about our appearance profoundly impacts our lives. My passion lies in helping people feel more confident through thoughtful, personalized treatments that don’t require drastic measures. I aim to empower individuals to embrace their best selves, one small step at a time.

Can you share a defining moment in your career or life that shaped your path?

Early in my career, I encountered a pivotal lesson that reshaped my approach to medicine. I learned that not all medical devices are created equal, much like the automotive industry. Trusting the claims of laser representatives, I invested in an expensive laser that ultimately did not deliver on its promises. Standing by my principles, I made the difficult decision to not recommend it to my patients, resulting in a significant loss. This experience taught me the importance of ethical practice: I will never endorse a product or treatment I don’t fully believe in. Since then, I’ve rigorously vetted every technology I incorporate into my practice, emphasizing evidence-based medicine. My guiding principle is to treat every patient like family; if I wouldn’t recommend it for my loved ones, I won’t offer it. This commitment may lead me to be cautious with trends, but it has made me a more knowledgeable and resilient physician. My success is rooted in hard work, integrity, and an unwavering passion for my craft.

What challenges have you faced in your journey, and how did you overcome them?

When I began my career in cosmetic dermatology and laser medicine, there was no established roadmap or mentorship available to guide me. I faced numerous trials and errors as I forged my path. To stay ahead in a rapidly evolving field, I have embraced lifelong learning, attending conferences in plastic surgery, dermatology, and regenerative medicine. My commitment to education has allowed me to develop my own approach to medical aesthetics. Over the past 18 years, my business has grown from one employee to over 50 across four locations, presenting new challenges at every turn. Today, I juggle responsibilities across multiple departments while ensuring that our incredible team members receive the attention they deserve. I view failure not as a setback but as a valuable opportunity for growth; it has made me stronger and more resilient than ever.

How do you define success for yourself?

For me, success is encapsulated in the moments when a patient looks in the mirror, tears of joy in their eyes, and thanks me for helping them feel beautiful. Whether it’s reducing a scar, clearing acne, or boosting confidence for a significant life event, these moments are what truly define my success. It’s not about vanity; it’s about making a meaningful impact in someone’s life. When patients return years later, it reaffirms that I have made a lasting difference, and that is the greatest measure of success I could ask for.

What values guide you in your personal and professional decisions?

Integrity and honesty are the cornerstones of my philosophy. As I’ve matured, I’ve come to appreciate the necessity of being truthful with myself and others. While honesty can sometimes be uncomfortable, it is vital for growth. In my practice, transparency with patients and employees about what works and what doesn’t is essential to building trust and fostering a supportive environment. What does leadership mean to you, and how do you embody it in your work? Leadership, to me, is about having a clear vision and inspiring others to pursue it together. I invest significantly in the education of my staff because I believe that knowledge is power.
When your team is well-informed, you minimize failures and maximize successes. One of my greatest strengths is surrounding myself with talented, dedicated individuals. Through collaboration and trust, we have cultivated a strong La Chelé community. We are committed to continuous learning and growth, and that dedication sets us apart.

Photography by Alison Dunlap

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