Medical Director and Principal Surgeon at Clinique 7, Zahi Abou Chacra, MD FRCSC, is an impassioned leader and innovative practitioner. Dr. Chacra runs a first-of-its-kind boutique clinic in Montreal, dedicated exclusively to Rhinoplasty. We sat down with Dr. Chacra to understand more about his practice and what motivates him.
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Q: When you’re meeting with patients, how do you ensure they’re well-informed and comfortable with their decision to undergo rhinoplasty?
ZAHI ABOU CHACRA: The consultation process is an opportunity to sit down with patients, hear their hopes, and alleviate any concerns. It allows me to evaluate patients comprehensively—not just in terms of the surgery they’re considering but also in their overall well-being. Therefore it is my responsibility to conduct a thorough medical history and make sure we discuss crucial aspects of surgery and recovery as well as any potential risks or complications we could run into. Thanks to the internet, many patients arrive with some understanding of rhinoplasty, having done their own research. My responsibility as well as my professional integrity relies on providing every patient with science-based information and a supportive ear, helping them navigate their needs when it comes to nasal surgery.
I believe that informed patients are empowered patients. The more information they have, the better equipped they are to make decisions about undergoing surgery. After I ensure that they understand the entire process from start to finish, my surgical coordinator takes over to manage the rest of the patient experience. My team must share the same commitment to patient education that I have, offering a welcoming space and professional demeanor at all times. This approach helps us build trust and reassure patients that they are in the hands of a highly qualified and compassionate team.
Q: How has your education influenced the way you manage Clinique 7?
ZAHI ABOU CHACRA: I hold a dual MBA from McGill University and HEC Montréal, and this has had a profound impact on how I run Clinique 7. Both institutions are known for their excellence in business education, and the skills I garnered through each respective program were instrumental in my ability to confidently establish and manage a private medical practice. The training provided by these programs emphasized strategic planning, financial management, and leadership—all of which are critical for making informed decisions that align with the long-term goals of my practice.
Having a business background alongside my medical degree allows me to approach practice management from a whole-patient perspective. I can more effectively balance clinical work with daily operational work, ensuring that we provide top-tier care while also maintaining a sustainable business model.
Q: What kinds of innovations have you made to enhance the patient experience at Clinique 7?
ZAHI ABOU CHACRA: Innovation is central to our practice at Clinique 7. We’re always looking for new ways to improve our approach. With patient consultations and pre-surgical planning, we’re now implementing advanced 3D imaging and simulation technologies that allow our patients to visualize potential outcomes before undergoing invasive surgery. With this technological aid, I’m able to help my patients feel more confident in their decisions and ensure that we’re aligned in terms of expectations.
Another example comes right from surgery, where I continually refine my techniques to incorporate minimally invasive procedures, reducing recovery times and improving patient comfort. The specialized training I received in rhinoplasty and facial plastic surgery in Houston enables me to stay at the forefront of my field and offer the latest techniques to my clientele. Ultimately, innovation allows us to deliver personalized care that enhances the patient experience from start to finish.
Q: What are some of the technical advances in the field that you’re most excited about?
ZAHI ABOU CHACRA: The advances in surgical techniques are going to push the boundaries of what is possible without sacrificing patient care or safety, while delivering natural results. Ultrasonic Rhinoplasty, using ultrasonic technology to reshape nasal bones more precisely, is fascinating to me and holds great potential for reconstructive surgery. The field of rhinoplasty is constantly evolving, and I am committed to staying at the forefront through continuous education and training. I regularly collaborate with leading experts internationally and participate in advanced workshops to refine my skills and learn about innovations.
