Dear Colleagues,
As I write this final update before our World Congress in Rio de Janeiro, it is difficult to believe that months of planning are about to become three days of learning, discussion, and connection. Our scientific program has taken shape, and we are completing the final preparations to welcome you October 15–17.
From the beginning, “Integrity Meets Excellence” has guided our work. We wanted to bring together strong science and practical surgical education while reaffirming our responsibility as physicians to protect our patients and maintain the highest standards in our specialty.
One particularly meaningful part of the program will be hearing directly from a patient who experienced severe complications following treatment at a black-market clinic. He has agreed to travel to Rio and share his experience with us. His willingness to speak openly will bring a personal perspective to our discussions and remind us why physician responsibility, patient safety, and integrity must remain at the center of everything we do.
One of our biggest accomplishments was reviewing 196 abstracts and building a balanced program from so many valuable contributions. Scoring and input from the entire Scientific Committee helped make this process fair and objective, with opportunities for both established faculty and newer voices.
The resulting program includes 12 General Sessions, eight Focused Sessions, three debates, short surgical videos, Cases, Studies and Innovations (CSI), and Morbidity & Mortality discussions. Topics range from donor preservation, hairline design, long-hair FUE, and Afro-textured hair to regenerative therapies, artificial intelligence, emerging technologies, and complication management. Workshops and the Surgical Assistants Program add practical education for the wider surgical team.
We have also worked carefully on how this education will be delivered. Time for questions and discussion has been protected, CSI has been developed around practical exchange, and the debates will encourage attendees to examine different perspectives. Meet the Experts sessions will offer further opportunities to speak directly with faculty. A new podcast and video series will be recorded during the Congress, extending these conversations beyond the meeting.
The experience outside the lecture halls has also received considerable attention. Newcomer activities, networking opportunities, the Welcome Reception, and the Congress Gala will help colleagues reconnect and make our newest members feel part of the Society.
I want to personally thank our President, Dr. Conradin von Albertini, for offering me this opportunity, trusting me with this responsibility, and supporting new ideas throughout the process. My special thanks also go to Melanie Stancampiano for her tireless work bringing the many pieces together, and to our Scientific Committee, session chairs, moderators, faculty, staff, and volunteers for their time and commitment.
With the program in place and the final details being coordinated, I look forward to welcoming you to Rio. My hope is that you leave with practical ideas for your patients, new professional friendships, and renewed pride in our specialty.
See you in Rio!
Warm regards,
Maxim Chumak, MD, FISHRS
ABHRS Diplomate
Program Chair