By Dr. Gina Maccarone, MD, FACS, FAACS

Gratitude is one of the most transformative forces in life, and in my practice. Every year as Thanksgiving approaches, I find myself reflecting not only on what I’m thankful for, but on how gratitude itself can change the way we see ourselves. It softens perfectionism, shifts focus from flaws to progress, and reminds us that true beauty begins with appreciation of our bodies, our journeys, and the resilience it takes to grow.
Why Gratitude Matters in Transformation
Surgery, at its heart, is an act of trust. Patients come to me ready for change, sometimes after years of hesitation, and place that trust in my hands. That trust humbles me every single day. Gratitude, for me, starts there. I’m thankful for every patient who allows me to be part of their story, and for the opportunity to help them reconnect with confidence and comfort in their own skin.
Gratitude also transforms the way we experience progress. So often, we focus on what’s next, what still needs to be fixed, lifted, or refined. But healing, like gratitude, requires presence. It asks you to appreciate where you are in this moment, to see your reflection not as unfinished, but as unfolding. Whether you’re recovering from surgery or simply navigating life’s changes, there’s power in slowing down and saying, “I’m thankful for how far I’ve come.”
The Heart Behind My Work
In my years as a cosmetic surgeon, I’ve learned that transformation is never just physical. It’s deeply emotional. When I see patients stand taller, smile brighter, or finally recognize the person they’ve always been, that’s what I’m truly grateful for. It’s not about perfection. It’s about harmony, confidence, and the courage to say yes to yourself. Those are the moments that remind me why I do what I do.
And gratitude extends beyond the operating room. I’m deeply thankful for my team, the nurses, coordinators, and surgical staff who care so deeply for our patients. Their compassion, precision, and warmth create an environment where people feel safe and supported. The success of every procedure, every recovery, every smile is a reflection of their skill and heart.
Gratitude Beyond the Mirror
Gratitude doesn’t just live in how we look. It lives in how we live. It’s in the quiet mornings, the laughter shared with loved ones, and the courage to keep evolving. When we lead with gratitude, we stop chasing perfection and start embracing authenticity. We begin to see beauty not as something we create, but as something we uncover.
Final Thoughts from Dr. Gina
This Thanksgiving, I encourage you to celebrate not just what you’ve achieved, but who you’ve become along the way. Be thankful for the strength it took to make changes, the patience it took to heal, and the grace it takes to keep growing. Gratitude is the bridge between where you are and where you want to be, and when you live with it, transformation becomes something far deeper than physical. It becomes personal.
Xo,
Dr. G
