Faculty

2026

The FACE.COLOGNE Faculty brings together an exceptional group of physicians who bridge the worlds of aesthetics and medicine with equal depth and integrity.
Each of them combines precision with an artistic understanding of form and proportion: uniting science, anatomy, and aesthetics into one coherent philosophy of facial medicine.

Their expertise transcends disciplines and continents, creating a dialogue between reconstructive and aesthetic approaches that few platforms in Europe achieve.

To learn from them is not simply to refine technique, but to understand the face as a living balance between function, harmony, and expression.

Prof. Anja Eckstein

Ophthalmologist

Essen, Germany

Prof. Anja Eckstein is a Professor at the University Eye Hospital Essen, where she heads the Orbital Center as well as the departments of Oculoplastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Strabismology, and Neuro-ophthalmology. She is a member of the Executive Committee of EUGOGO (European Group on Graves’ Orbitopathy) and formerly served as President of the German Society of Strabismus, Neuro-ophthalmology, and Pediatric Ophthalmology.

Her main research focuses on thyroid eye disease (TED), both in clinical settings and through basic research using in vivo and in vitro models. In addition, she conducts clinical research on other orbital inflammatory conditions such as idiopathic orbital inflammation (IOI), IgG4-related disease, and other specific orbital inflammations. Another area of expertise is strabismus (squint) surgery in patients with TED.

Dr. Claudia Hennig

General Practitioner

Bonn, Germany

Dr. med. Claudia Hennig, MSc (Preventive Medicine, DIU), is a general practitioner with a focus on preventive, longevity, and aesthetic medicine. Since 2012, she has headed the practice at Q6 in Bonn-Bad Godesberg. Her profile is shaped by international training (USA, Belgium, Vienna). She is a board member of GSAAM (German Society for Preventive and Anti-Aging Medicine) and served as Congress President of the GSAAM Annual Conference in 2025. She is also a co-founder and board member of GPeV. Her approach is evidence-based and interdisciplinary, ranging from minimally invasive procedures and skincare to comprehensive preventive diagnostics and coaching.

Dr. Michelle Henry

Dermatologist

New York, USA

Dr. Michelle Henry is an internationally recognized dermatologist, speaker, trainer, and author. She is the CEO and founder of Skin & Aesthetic Surgery of Manhattan and The Henry Research Group, and serves as a Clinical Instructor of Dermatology at Weill Cornell Medical College.

She specializes in general dermatology, Mohs micrographic surgery, cosmetic procedures, and high-risk skin cancer care. After completing her dermatology residency as Chief Resident at Mount Sinai, she pursued a fellowship in cutaneous oncology and Mohs surgery at Harvard Medical School. She is dedicated to advanced, effective treatments tailored to diverse skin types and individual patient needs.

Dr. Henry has been featured in major outlets including Forbes, The New York Times, and Harper’s Bazaar, and appears regularly as an on-air medical expert. She has authored numerous scientific publications, leads FDA clinical trials, and serves on multiple medical boards. She is also a member of L’Oréal’s product validation board.

Widely honored—including Castle Connolly and New York Magazine Top Doctor—she is an active member of leading dermatology societies and sits on the Board of Directors for the Melanoma Research Foundation, which awarded her its Excellence in Prevention Award.

At the core of her practice is a holistic, research-driven approach that integrates the latest technology to deliver exceptional patient outcomes.

Dr. Lidia Poppe

Dermatologist

Bad Kissingen, Germany

Dr. Lidia Poppe is a dermatologist in private practice in Bad Kissingen, Germany. She studied medicine in Brazil, Berlin, and Münster, and gained international experience at Royal Perth Hospital in Australia. She completed her dermatology training and doctorate at the University Clinic in Würzburg, focusing on melanocytes in skin tumors.

An expert in laser and aesthetic dermatology, she has led workshops since 2016 and serves as an examiner for NiSV laser certification (BAGA Academy). She is committed to diversity in dermatology, especially in laser treatments for skin of color, and is currently pursuing the Diploma in Aesthetic Laser Medicine (DALM) at the University of Greifswald.

Dr. Derya Tezel

Internal Medicine, Medical Advisor FACE.COLOGNE

Bonn, Germany

Dr. Derya Tezel is a physician with a broad medical background in internal medicine, emergency medicine, and palliative care, complemented by her dedicated focus on aesthetic and regenerative medicine.
She leads her own practice, Tezel Aesthetics, where she combines modern injectable techniques, skin rejuvenation methods, and a patient centered approach grounded in empathy and precision.

With extensive training in botulinum toxin, hyaluronic-acid fillers, biostimulators, and thread lifting, Dr. Tezel brings both clinical expertise and a refined aesthetic judgement to her work.

In addition to her clinical practice, she serves as Medical Advisor of FACE.COLOGNE and as Medical Director for Injectables at the FACE.ACADEMY, where she helps shape educational standards, quality assurance, and evidence based teaching for physicians.

Her philosophy: aesthetic medicine that enhances natural beauty while maintaining safety, nuance, and authenticity.

Prof. Dr. Bettina Wabbels

Ophthalmologist

Bonn, Germany

Prof. Bettina K. Wabbels is Professor of Ophthalmology and Head of the Section for Orthoptics, Neuro- and Pediatric Ophthalmology at the University of Bonn. Her clinical and academic work focuses on neuro-ophthalmology, pediatric ophthalmology, and optic nerve disorders. She has published extensively on intracranial pressure diagnostics, visual pathway imaging, and neuro-ocular biomarkers. Through her interdisciplinary research and commitment to evidence-based patient care, Prof. Wabbels has become a leading voice in advancing the scientific understanding and clinical practice of ophthalmology.

Dr. Elisângela Wenzel

Board-certified dermatologist and venereologist

Düsseldorf, Germany

Dr. Elisângela Wenzel is a board certified dermatologist and venereologist specializing in aesthetic dermatology, laser medicine, and dermatologic surgery. She studied and earned her doctorate at Heinrich-Heine-University Düsseldorf, followed by international training at the Royal Prince Alfred Hospital in Sydney, the Instituto Ivo Pitanguy in Rio de Janeiro, and hospitals in Switzerland. She also completed the Diploma in Aesthetic Laser Medicine (DALM) at the University of Greifswald. As founder of her private practice in Meerbusch, Dr. Wenzel combines advanced medical techniques with scientific precision and an aesthetic sense for natural, harmonious results.

Prof. Dr. Caroline Wilkinson

Forensic Anthropologist

Liverpool, United Kingdom

Prof. Wilkinson is Professor of Craniofacial Identification and Director of the Forensic Research Institute (FORRI) at Liverpool John Moores University.  She is a chartered forensic anthropologist Level I (craniofacial specialism) by the Royal Anthropological Institute (RAI), an Accredited Senior Imaging Scientist (ASIS) and is an experienced forensic practitioner.

She is currently Chair of the EU-funded COST Action for Migrant Disaster Victim Identification, a consortium created to enhance the identification of people who die trying to reach Europe from war torn or socioeconomically disrupted countries.

Prof. Wilkinson is also Director of Face Lab, a research group within FORRI that carries out forensic/archaeological research and consultancy work including craniofacial analysis, facial depiction and facial identification. Craniofacial analysis involves the depiction and identification of unknown bodies for forensic investigation or historical figures for archaeological interpretation. Face Lab research relates to facial identification, craniofacial reconstruction, preserved bodies and facial animation. Face Lab has depicted the faces of King Richard III, Robert the Bruce, Ramesses II and Cleopatra.

She is Fellow of the RAI, the Royal Society of Edinburgh (RSE), the Anatomical Society and the Royal Photographic Society. She received the 2016 Combined Royal Colleges Medal for excellence in clinical imaging and the 2013 Royal Society Senior Medal for Public Engagement. The MDVI project received a Times Higher Education Award 2023 for Research Project of the Year; Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences.

Dr. Hüseyin Aral

Ophthalmologist

Cologne, Germany

Dr. Hüseyin Aral is a specialist in ophthalmology with a focus on reconstructive and aesthetic eyelid surgery. He completed his medical studies in Bochum and Izmir and trained in general medicine and ophthalmology across Istanbul, Aachen, and Bonn. From 2002 to 2008, he was senior physician in plastic and reconstructive eyelid surgery at the Hospital of the Brothers of Mercy in Trier.

Since 2008, Dr. Aral has run his private practice LIDMED® in Cologne, specializing exclusively in eyelid surgery. He is founder and president of the German Society for Eyelid Surgery (DeGeLid) and a recognized training leader for the German Ophthalmological Society (DOG).

He actively conducts accredited training courses for medical professionals, tailored to individual needs and designed for both beginners and advanced surgeons.

Dr. Yates Yen-Yu Chao

Dermatologist

Taipei, Taiwan

Dr. Yates Yen-Yu Chao is a globally recognized expert in cosmetic dermatology with over 25 years of clinical experience. As Medical Director of the CHAO Institute of Aesthetic Medicine in Taipei, he trains physicians worldwide. Dr. Chao has pioneered innovative injection techniques and expanded the use of aesthetic devices and products, enhancing treatment safety, efficacy, and scientific basis. He serves on advisory boards for leading dermal filler, neuromodulator, medical device, and pharmaceutical brands. A sought-after lecturer and keynote speaker, his workshops and live demonstrations showcase his extensive clinical knowledge and artistic vision. Beyond medicine, Dr. Chao expresses his creativity through painting, calligraphy, and photography. He is also the author of bestselling textbooks on dermal fillers and aesthetic toxins, widely used by practitioners to refine their skills and elevate their practice.

Dr. Lonny Green

Surgeon

Richmond, Virgina, USA

Dr. Lonny Green is the Medical Director at Revee Medical Aesthetics in Richmond, VA. With over 20 years as a practicing surgeon, he transitioned from urologic surgery to medical aesthetics in 2020, focusing on natural, holistic facial treatments.

Dr. Green holds a BS from Stanford, an MD from UCLA, and an MBA from the University of Saint Thomas. He completed general surgery training and the Harvard Urology Program. As a National Trainer for Allergan Medical Institute, he shares his expertise widely.

Residing in Richmond with his family, Dr. Green is passionate about helping patients enhance their natural beauty. He is board-certified in Urology and affiliated with several local hospitals. 

Dr. Todd Hanna

Maxillofacial and Head and Neck Surgeon

New York, USA

Dr. Steven Harris

Aesthetic Medicine

London, United Kingdom

Dr. Steven Harris, MBBCh, MSc is an experienced practitioner and thought leader in the field of Aesthetic Medicine, with over two decades of clinical practice. He is the Director of a very aesthetic clinic in central London, where his work is distinguished by a strong integration of anatomical precision and artistic sensibility.

Dr. Harris is actively engaged in research related to soft tissue filler behaviour, ultrasound-guided injection techniques, and anatomical safety in aesthetic procedures. He has authored multiple peer-reviewed publications and contributes to the academic discourse on best practices in non-surgical facial enhancement. His original Nonsurgical Lip Tubercle (NLT) technique is widely recognised, and he is an international educator offering advanced courses in facial reshaping with a focus on ultrasound-guided approaches.

Prof. Dr. Heinz-Herbert Homann

Plastic and Aesthetic Surgeon

Duisburg, Germany

Prof. Dr. med. Heinz-Herbert Homann has been Head of the Continuing Education Department at the DGPRÄC since 2023 and previously served as Representative for Hand Surgery on the Extended Board. In 2020, he developed the BDC Specialist Seminar in Plastic Surgery, which he continues to coordinate annually. Until April 2025, he was Chief Physician of the Hand Surgery, Plastic Surgery, and Burn Unit at the BG Trauma Hospital Duisburg-Buchholz.

His key areas of expertise include treatment of age-related hand conditions such as thumb carpometacarpal osteoarthritis and carpal tunnel syndrome, management of chronic wounds, botulinum toxin wrinkle treatment, radical removal of malignant bone and soft tissue tumors, and limb reconstruction.

Dr. Arash Khademi

Cosmetic Surgeon

London, United Kingdom

Dr. Arash Khademi is a London-based cosmetic surgeon with over 27 years of clinical, academic, management, and leadership experience. Certified in Klein Micro-Cannular Liposuction and MicroAire PAL High Definition Liposculpture. Member of the British Association of Cosmetic Surgeons (BACS). Dr. Khademi serves as a Key Opinion Leader (KOL) and international trainer, and is a faculty member for leading national and international companies in aesthetic medicine and surgery.

Dr. Andreas Kromer

Dermatologist

Berlin, Germany

Dr. Andreas Kromer is a dermatologist driven by a deep passion for the interplay between skin, emotion, and aesthetics.
After international training in Dublin, Sydney, and Tokyo, he founded his practice in Prenzlauer Berg, where modern laser medicine, aesthetic procedures, and the psychosomatic dimensions of dermatology come together.
His approach: medicine practiced with empathy, precision, and an eye for beauty.

Dr. Babak Maleki

Ophthalmologist

Toronto, Canada

Dr. Babak Maleki is a Toronto-based oculoplastic surgeon known internationally for his expertise in achieving natural, elegant, and long-lasting periocular rejuvenation. He is best known for developing the Trinity Lower Eyelid Rejuvenation, a comprehensive technique that simultaneously addresses eye bags, under-eye hollowing, and skin laxity—offering a refreshed appearance while preserving facial character and authenticity.

His practice spans advanced eyelid and facial procedures, including upper lid blepharoplasty, ptosis repair, retraction repair, various brow lifting techniques, canthopexy, and strategic fat transfer, as well as a wide range of non-surgical aesthetic treatments.

A passionate educator and innovator, Dr. Maleki emphasizes that the eyes are central to emotional connection and the natural expression of personality. He believes that restoring eyelid harmony is not only beneficial but essential in modern facial rejuvenation, where maintaining authenticity, character, and the subtleties of expression defines the standard of true natural beauty. Dr. Maleki is dedicated to helping surgeons and aesthetic providers refine their craft to meet this standard.

In research, his team studied nasal mucosa blood flow regulation and the role of nitric oxide. He is among the top 10 German researchers in otolaryngology, with over 300 publications including books and chapters.

Currently, he is Vice-Chairman of Rhinology and Head & Neck Surgery at the University Hospital of Vrije Universiteit Brussel, recognized internationally as an expert, teacher, and speaker.

Prof. Dr. Olaf Michel

ENT Specialist

Cologne, Germany

Prof. Dr. Olaf Michel, born in 1956, studied pharmacy and medicine in Paris and Berlin. He began his career in otorhinolaryngology at the Free University of Berlin before earning his PhD at the University of Cologne in 1992. His clinical and research focus has been on paranasal sinus diseases.

He co-founded and has been a faculty member of the International Sinus Course between Brussels and Cologne for over 25 years and regularly teaches at international courses, including the Rhinological Update Course in East Asia. He pioneered the transnasal endoscopic decompression for orbital diseases combined with eye muscle recession for diplopia, endonasal fracture treatment, ESS in children with cystic fibrosis, and beta-trace-protein diagnostics for CSF leaks.

In research, his team studied nasal mucosa blood flow regulation and the role of nitric oxide. He is among the top 10 German researchers in otolaryngology, with over 300 publications including books and chapters.

Currently, he is Vice-Chairman of Rhinology and Head & Neck Surgery at the University Hospital of Vrije Universiteit Brussel, recognized internationally as an expert, teacher, and speaker.

Priv. Doz. Dr. Dr. Jan D. Raguse

Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery

Münster, Germany

Dr. Ray Taban

Ophthalmologist

Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, USA

Dr. Mehryar Taban is a compassionate oculoplastic surgeon specializing in eyelid, orbit, and facial cosmetic and reconstructive surgery, with offices in the greater Los Angeles area. He is an Assistant Clinical Professor at UCLA and is double board-certified by the American Society of Oculofacial Plastic Surgery, the American Board of Ophthalmology, and is a diplomat of the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery. Dr. Taban emphasizes natural-looking results using minimal incision techniques for faster recovery.

His specialties include eyelid surgery (ptosis, blepharoplasty, eyelid cancer, and more), orbital surgery (fracture repair, decompression, tumor removal), and lacrimal (tear duct) surgery.

Dr. Fábio Lopes Saito

Plastic Surgeon

São Paulo, Brazil

Dr. Fábio Lopes Saito is a board-certified plastic surgeon from the University of São Paulo (USP), specialized in oculoplastic and aesthetic medicine. He works in private practice and as an international speaker. Responsible for developing medical education programs within the pharmaceutical industry, he combines science, art and technology to promote a human-centered, natural, and precise approach to facial aesthetics.  

Dr. Jesper Thulesen

Ophthalmologist

Copenhagen, Denmark

Dr. Jesper Thulesen is a renowned oculoplastic surgeon and aesthetic physician, licensed in ophthalmology across Denmark, Dubai, France, Norway, and Sweden. Holding a Ph.D. with a strong research background, he has published extensively, including in Nature Medicine. His research focuses on novel treatments in oculoplastics, mechanisms of botulinum toxin, and advancements in skin laser therapies. As a masterclass trainer for Allergan Aesthetics and a member of the international AMI faculty and ESOPRS, Dr. Thulesen is a leading expert in aesthetic oculoplastics, skin laser treatments, non-permanent fillers, and botulinum toxin. He is also a sought-after international lecturer, advancing the field of aesthetic and reconstructive medicine worldwide.