At Avani Derm Spa, our team is the heart of everything we do. Led by triple board-certified facial plastic surgeon Dr. Laxmeesh Mike Nayak and co-founder Avani Nayak, we are dedicated to delivering the highest level of care, customized to each patient’s unique needs. Our diverse team of aesthetic specialists shares a commitment to excellence, precision, and personalized care.
With extensive training, advanced techniques, and a passion for helping clients look and feel their best, we ensure that every experience at Avani Derm Spa is nothing short of exceptional. Whether you’re visiting for injectables, laser treatments, skincare, or surgical consultations, you can trust that you’re in the hands of some of the most talented and knowledgeable professionals in the industry.
Board-Certified Facial Plastic Surgeon
Dr. Laxmeesh Mike Nayak, co-founder of Avani Derm Spa, is a highly respected, triple board-certified facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon with an impressive academic and professional background. Recognized for his expertise in rhinoplasty, facial rejuvenation, volumetric surgery, and minimally invasive techniques, Dr. Nayak continues to set the standard in facial aesthetics and patient care.
At Avani Derm Spa, every nurse injector—whether experienced or newly joining the team—undergoes several weeks of hands-on training directly with Dr. Nayak. All our injectors have learned and refined their skills using his specialized techniques, ensuring consistency and excellence in every treatment. This commitment to ongoing education and exceptional patient care extends across the entire Avani Derm Spa team, ensuring clients receive the highest level of care from skilled professionals at the forefront of the aesthetic industry.
Business Development
In 2006, Avani transitioned from a career as a corporate attorney to help build Nayak Plastic Surgery. In 2010, Avani and Dr. Nayak expanded their vision by launching Avani Derm Spa. Starting with a small team of just three employees, Avani took on multiple roles in the early years, serving as a receptionist, patient consultant, and marketing coordinator. Today, she is dedicated to ensuring that both Nayak Plastic Surgery and Avani Derm Spa uphold the highest standards, delivering exceptional care and top-tier services to every patient.
Practice Manager - Director of General Operations
Allie Israelson serves as the Practice Manager for Nayak Plastic Surgery and both Avani Derm Spa locations in St. Louis. She began her career as an esthetician, quickly expanding her expertise across all roles within the organization, ultimately becoming a respected leader in a growing business.
Allie played a pivotal role in the successful launch of the Spa in 2010 and has developed in-depth knowledge of the services, products, and competitive landscape within the industry. Her contributions have been integral to the growth and transformation of Nayak Plastic Surgery and Avani Derm Spa, evolving from a small team of six to a well-established organization of 50 skilled and dedicated professionals.
Allie is committed to addressing any inquiries or concerns with the highest level of professionalism, respect, and confidentiality.
CFO
Jen, who received her Bachelors of Science in Accounting from the University of Missouri St. Louis, joined Nayak Plastic Surgery and Avani Derm Spa in April of 2024. She utilizes her vast experience and knowledge to ensure the team has all the necessary financial data to be successful and continual growth. This allows the primary focus to remain on providing the highest level of care to our patients.
Operations Specialist
Sam has several years of customer service providing professional, friendly and quality patient care in the healthcare field. She started at Nayak Plastic Surgery and Avani Derm Spa as a Receptionist and transitioned to the Administrative team. Sam loves helping out wherever needed. Any questions or concerns will be addressed with the utmost respect and confidentiality. Outside of work, she loves to hike, kayak and hang out with family and friends!
Shannon Huey is responsible for managing the inventory process within our medical spa, playing a key role in ensuring smooth spa operations. By maintaining accurate inventory levels, managing relationships with vendors, and ensuring essential supplies are always available and ready for use.
Lindsay's passion for skincare began early in life, shaped by her own personal experiences with skin concerns. After developing melasma in her early 20s, she made the decision to transition from the corporate world to the treatment room, dedicating her career to helping others achieve healthy, radiant skin.
She takes pride in creating customized, results-driven treatment plans tailored to each patient’s unique needs, focusing on long-term skin health and maintenance. A firm believer in the power of prevention and protection, Lindsay considers antioxidants and SPF to be her go-to skincare essentials.
Receptionist
Melanie joined the Nayak Plastic Surgery team in January 2022, bringing nearly five years of healthcare experience and over a decade in customer service.
A St. Louis native, she had long admired Dr. Nayak and the team, and is proud to now be part of such a highly regarded practice.
With a passion for aesthetics, Melanie is dedicated to helping patients navigate their journey at Nayak Plastic Surgery and Avani Derm Spa. Whether it’s assisting with scheduling, answering questions, or providing support throughout the treatment process, she strives to create a welcoming and positive experience for every patient. Melanie takes pride in ensuring that each visit is as smooth, informative, and enjoyable as possible, making patients feel comfortable and confident every step of the way.
Receptionist
Brook has been a valued member of the Nayak Plastic Surgery team since 2007 and is highly knowledgeable about all of our treatments and procedures.
Whether you need assistance with appointments, pricing, or general inquiries, she is always ready to help.
With a strong commitment to quality patient care, Brook is dedicated to making every visit a seamless and positive experience. She earned her BA in Communications from UMKC in 2002 and brings enthusiasm and expertise to her role, ensuring that each patient feels informed, supported, and well cared for.
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Receptionist
Jennifer became a valued member of the Nayak Plastic Surgery team in July 2019, bringing extensive experience in both medical settings and customer service.
With a strong background in patient care, she is dedicated to ensuring a seamless and positive experience for everyone who walks through our doors.
Passionate about helping others, Jennifer is excited to contribute her skills and expertise to the team. She looks forward to providing personalized support and making each patient’s journey as smooth and comfortable as possible.
Receptionist
Paige joined the Nayak Plastic Surgery and Avani Derm Spa team in August of 2022.
She has fifteen years of diversified customer care expertise, and an extensive background in beauty, health, and wellness. The union of her passion for the aesthetic industry and becoming a dedicated team member of one of the most globally renowned plastics practices, has blossomed into a highly rewarding career where first-class patient care takes utmost priority.
With a wealth of knowledge and hands-on experience, Paige finds fulfillment in using her skills to empower and support others. She believes in creating an approachable and hospitable environment, and ensures positive experiences for prospective and established patients alike.
Receptionist
Alexis is deeply passionate about aesthetics and customer service, bringing three years of hands-on experience in the skincare and aesthetic industry.
She has dedicated her career to mastering aesthetic procedures while ensuring every patient receives the highest level of care.
Having long admired Dr. Nayak’s work, Alexis is thrilled to be part of the team. Currently pursuing a degree in business, she values the balance between exceptional service and top-quality treatments. With her extensive knowledge and commitment to excellence, she strives to make each patient’s journey seamless, welcoming, and truly exceptional from start to finish.
Receptionist
As a front desk receptionist at Nayak Plastic Surgery and Avani Derm Spa, Beth is dedicated to providing exceptional service to our patients and clients.
With a warm and welcoming demeanor, Beth ensures every patient’s experience is smooth and comfortable from the moment they walk in the door.
Their passion for customer care and aesthetics make them an integral part of the team, always ready to assist with anything from scheduling to answering questions about our services.
Whether you're visiting for a consultation or a spa treatment, Beth is here to make sure your visit is seamless and enjoyable.
Receptionist
Haley brings over a decade of experience in customer care to Avani Derm Spa.
She is very passionate about all things skincare, health and wellness. She is dedicated to providing excellent customer care, making patients feel welcome, and helping them find the care that they need to feel their absolute best. She is very excited to join the team and use her experience and passion to create a positive experience for all of our patients.
With a background in esthetics and skincare, and currently working toward my nursing degree, I’m passionate about helping others feel confident and beautiful from the inside out. I’m excited to be part of Dr. Nayak’s team and take pride in creating a warm, welcoming environment where every patient feels seen, supported, and cared for!
Surgical Consultation Coordinator
As a consultation coordinator for Dr. Nayak, Whitney serves as the first point of contact for patients, guiding them through the initial steps of their surgical journey. She takes pride in acting as a liaison, ensuring a seamless and supportive experience leading up to their procedures. Passionate about her role, Whitney finds great fulfillment in building connections and getting to know each patient on a personal level.
With a strong commitment to staying informed and up to date on all treatments and surgical procedures, Whitney is highly skilled in preparing and evaluating patients for surgery, injectables, device-based treatments, and derm-spa services. Her extensive background as a makeup artist, combined with over 20 years of experience in the beauty and aesthetics industry, ultimately led her to discover her passion for working alongside Dr. Nayak. She is grateful to play a meaningful role in helping patients enhance their confidence and overall well-being.
Surgical Consultation Coordinator
Erin plays a vital role in the patient journey at Nayak Plastic Surgery, assisting with surgical consultations with both Dr. Nayak and Dr. Kachare. She has been with the practice for almost 10 years and has been a big part of evolving the surgical coordinator role over time. She is her team’s lead and remains primarily focused on ensuring the patient experience stays our number one priority. She helps with coordinating and scheduling surgical appointments to ensure patients stay on track and prepared for their upcoming surgery. As a primary point of contact for surgical patients, she provides support before and after their procedures, guiding them from the initial inquiry through every step of the process. She remains available to answer questions and address concerns, ensuring a seamless and reassuring experience.
With a background in sales and customer service, Erin prioritizes understanding each patient’s needs and creating a comfortable, welcoming environment. She is passionate about meeting new people and building lasting relationships to enhance every patient’s experience. Not only did Erin earn her Bachelor of Arts in Communications from the University of Missouri–St. Louis in 2007, she also has 8 years of corporate sales experience. Whether for face or body, she looks forward to helping you on your surgical journey!
Surgical Consultation Coordinator
As a consultation coordinator, Carrie is often the first point of contact for patients scheduling their consultations with Dr. Nayak. She guides them through the entire process, answering questions, providing information, and ensuring a smooth, stress-free experience. With in-depth knowledge of both surgical and non-surgical treatments, as well as spa services, she helps patients explore their options and feel confident in their decisions.
Carrie has been in the medical field for over four years and brings a strong background in customer service. She enjoys meeting new people and building connections with patients throughout their journey. Having been a patient of Dr. Nayak’s since 2006, Carrie has personally experienced many of the treatments offered, giving her unique insight and a firsthand understanding that enhances her ability to support and guide patients.
Surgical Consultation Coordinator
As a consultation coordinator, Amanda is the first point of contact for surgical patients by guiding them through the entire process and scheduling consultations for Dr Nayak and Dr Kachare. Amanda ensures a seamless and supportive experience and is dedicated to each patient throughout their surgical journey.
Amanda's years of experience in customer service and the medical field has shaped her commitment to providing exceptional care to our patients. Amanda enjoys meeting new people and getting to know them on a personal level. She is passionate about providing personalized attention to each patient to ensure they are comfortable and confident. Amanda is proud to be part of Nayak Plastic Surgery’s renowned team by helping patients achieve their aesthetic goals with expertise and care.
Medical Assistant
Ischla is a bilingual medical assistant with over a decade of experience in the operating room. Known for her precision and compassionate approach, she ensures every patient feels comfortable and well cared for. You’ll find her welcoming presence and friendly smile at our new Des Peres location!
Medical Assistant
Yadi became a valued member of the Nayak Plastic Surgery team in December 2018. She earned her Medical Assistant degree from SLCH in 2011 and previously worked in pediatrics before transitioning to aesthetics.
With over a decade of customer service experience, Yadi is dedicated to making each patient’s visit smooth and comfortable. She is always happy to assist with scheduling, answer any questions, and support our nurse injectors during procedures. Her warm and approachable nature ensures that every patient feels well cared for throughout their experience.
Medical Assistant
Emily is well-versed in all the treatments offered at Nayak Plastic Surgery and Avani Derm Spa and is always eager to assist patients in any way she can. She began her journey with the team as a receptionist back in 2017, gaining valuable experience over two years before transitioning into her current role as a Medical Assistant in 2019.
Now, Emily plays a key role in patient care, ensuring every individual feels prepared and supported throughout their experience. With a commitment to providing exceptional service, she works closely with our nurses to create a seamless and comfortable visit for each patient.
Medical Assistant
Rachel is a dedicated medical assistant with a strong passion for hands-on patient care. She is committed to providing personalized attention and continuously expanding her knowledge to ensure every patient receives the highest level of care. Enthusiastic and driven, Rachel is thrilled to be part of such an exceptional team.
Medical Assistant
Erin first joined our team as an intern in 2021 and has since grown into her role as a medical assistant. With a strong passion for both esthetics and psychology, she is dedicated to understanding the connection between skin health and emotional well-being. Having personally overcome severe skin concerns, Erin is deeply committed to helping others find solutions for their skincare needs. Her mission is to empower patients to see the best in themselves while continuously expanding her knowledge in the ever-evolving field of esthetics.
Medical Assistant
Shauna has been with Nayak Plastic Surgery since 2018 and has held multiple roles as both an Esthetician and Medical Assistant. She is passionate about the cosmetic industry from every angle and she truly believes that loving the skin you’re in is vital for whole self wellness. With her background in Esthetics, over fifteen years experience in the beauty industry, and her knowledge of medical cosmetics and plastic surgery, she enthusiastically assists our Nurse Injectors and is ready to help every patient feel amazing and supported during their visit.
Medical Assistant
Krissey brings 15 years of entrepreneurial experience, with a strong foundation in customer service. In 2024, she joined Nayak Plastic Surgery as a dedicated and personable Medical Assistant. Passionate about providing exceptional client care, Krissey works closely with clients to ensure a comfortable, personalized experience. She offers guidance and support before and during treatments, helping clients achieve their beauty and wellness goals and ensuring a positive experience every time. I can’t wait to meet you!
Esthetician/Laser Specialist
Brittanie has been immersed in the spa industry for over twelve years, gaining experience in both medical esthetics and advanced laser technology. Her passion for skincare began at a young age while under the care of a dermatologist, giving her firsthand insight into the challenges of problematic skin. She understands the frustration of avoiding mirrors, constantly searching for the right products, and struggling with confidence—an experience that has shaped her commitment to helping others on their skincare journeys.
After successfully overcoming her own acne, Brittanie now views her past struggles as a gift, fueling her dedication to helping patients achieve clear, healthy skin. She specializes in acne solutions, age rejuvenation, and advanced reversal technologies, tailoring each treatment plan to her patients' unique concerns. Every patient receives a thorough consultation, followed by a customized treatment strategy and at-home care regimen to promote long-term skin health.
She is excited to share her knowledge and expertise with her patients, helping them achieve a lifetime of radiant, youthful skin.
Esthetician/Laser Specialist
Heather is a dedicated Licensed Esthetician and Certified Laser Specialist with over 10 years of experience in the beauty and skincare industry. She specializes in a range of services, including advanced laser therapies, chemical peels, and skin rejuvenation treatments. Her approach combines the latest technology with a deep understanding of skin health, ensuring that each client receives tailored solutions that suit their unique skin types and concerns.
Drawing from her own experiences with hormonal breakouts, melasma, and hyperpigmentation, she is passionate about supporting you on your journey to radiant skin.
Esthetician
With over 20 years of experience as a licensed esthetician and professional makeup artist, Jacqueline Albert is a trusted expert in the skincare and beauty industry. Passionate about enhancing natural beauty, she takes great pride in helping clients look and feel their best, ensuring they leave each appointment with renewed confidence and glowing skin.
Esthetician
Ellen began her aesthetics career in 2022 after obtaining her license, starting as an intern at Nayak Plastic Surgery, where she gained valuable industry experience and insight. She is passionate about delivering personalized care, customizing treatments to align with each client’s unique needs and aesthetic goals.
Believing that education and continuous training are essential for achieving natural, high-quality results, Ellen is dedicated to staying up to date with the latest advancements in aesthetic treatments. Even outside of work, she remains committed to learning, ensuring that her clients always receive the safest, most effective, and most comfortable experience possible.
Esthetician
With over 15 years of experience in the beauty industry, Mary is a highly skilled and certified aesthetician passionate about the transformative impact of advanced skincare technology. She is dedicated to helping clients achieve a refreshed, confident appearance through personalized treatments tailored to their individual skin concerns.
Mary takes pride in providing thorough consultations, ensuring she understands each client’s unique needs and goals. As a firm believer in the power of education, she empowers her clients with the knowledge to maintain healthy, radiant skin beyond their spa treatments. Her client-centered approach ensures a customized and results-driven experience for everyone she treats.
Esthetician
Nina is a licensed esthetician with over 13 years of experience in both teaching and practice. She provides medical-grade facials with a therapeutic touch, allowing clients to relax while achieving their best skin. She takes the time to personalize each treatment, educating clients on the importance of homecare regimens and how consistent skincare habits contribute to healthy, radiant skin. Her focus is on helping patients achieve long-term skin health through expert care and guidance.
Esthetician
Ciara is a passionate and skilled esthetician with over 10 years in the beauty industry, dedicated to helping clients achieve healthy, radiant skin. She believes skincare should be both effective and enjoyable, creating customized treatments that leave skin glowing and clients feeling their best. With a warm and bubbly personality, Ciara makes every visit feel like a self-care treat while educating her clients on how to maintain their results at home. Whether you’re looking to refresh, rejuvenate, or just relax, Ciara is here to help you love the skin you’re in!
Jess has been a Licensed Esthetician since graduating from The Skin Institute in 2018, but her love for beauty began long before that with makeup artistry. That passion evolved into a deeper love for skin health, rooted in the belief that the best foundation to wear is glowing skin! She’s so proud to bring her expertise to the renowned Nayak & Avani team, home to the gold standard in aesthetic excellence!
With over seven years of experience, Jess is known for delivering personalized treatments that blend results with relaxation. Her attention to detail, creativity, and educational approach help clients feel truly cared for and confident in their skin. She’s a firm believer that skincare is the ultimate therapy - a little sparkle, a little soul, and a whole lot of self-love.
When she’s not working her magic at the spa, Jess spends her time with her husband and son, often hunting for vintage treasures!
Brittany, a Licensed Esthetician and Post-Op Specialist with a passion for helping clients look and feel their best—inside and out. With advanced training in post-surgical care and lymphatic drainage therapy, I specialize in supporting smooth recoveries, reducing swelling, and enhancing natural results. In the treatment room, I combine science-backed techniques with a personalized touch, offering everything from corrective skin care to recovery therapies. My goal is to create a space where beauty, healing, and confidence all come together.
Aesthetic Nurse & Injection Specialist
Kim Grunzinger, MSN, RN, ACNS-BC, brings extensive experience in aesthetic and surgical care. With nearly two decades of expertise assisting in plastic, cosmetic, and dermatologic surgeries—including hair transplants—she has honed her skills in both surgical and non-surgical procedures. Kim is also highly experienced in administering Botox Cosmetic and injectable fillers, helping patients achieve natural, refreshed results.
Lead Aesthetic Nurse & Injection Specialist
Julie is passionate about aesthetic medicine and brings extensive expertise to the field. She joined Nayak Plastic Surgery in 2017 and is highly skilled in non-surgical injections and treatments, helping patients enhance their natural beauty with subtle, refined results.
In addition to her expertise in non-surgical procedures, Julie has worked alongside Dr. Nayak as an operating room nurse, assisting in surgery. This hands-on surgical experience has given her a deep understanding of facial anatomy, allowing her to approach treatments with precision and artistry.
With years of experience, advanced training, an artistic eye, and a gentle touch, Julie is committed to delivering beautiful, natural-looking results while prioritizing patient safety and care.
Aesthetic Nurse Practitioner & Injection Specialist
Ashley is a highly skilled Nurse Practitioner Injector with a deep passion for helping individuals enhance their natural beauty while maintaining an authentic, refreshed appearance. With a 13-year background in healthcare and aesthetics, she has focused her expertise in non-surgical cosmetic procedures, specializing in injectables such as neurotoxins, dermal fillers, biostimulators, and other advanced treatments such as radiofrequency microneedling and CO2 lasering designed to rejuvenate the face subtly and naturally. With a background in oncology, she brings a truly unique sense of compassion in her patient care.
Her deep understanding of facial anatomy along with meticulous attention to detail give her the ability to create natural, beautiful, and balanced results that build her patient’s self-confidence and create an environment of trust and comfort.
Ashley believes that cosmetic treatments should enhance one’s features rather than alter them, and this philosophy guides their approach with every patient.
Aesthetic Nurse Practitioner & Injection Specialist
Jenny Morrison, MSN, FNP-BC, is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner with a strong background in both critical care and aesthetic medicine. She earned her nursing degree from the University of Missouri-Columbia and spent 11 years as a registered nurse in a Burn Intensive Care Unit, where she developed a deep understanding of restoring both function and form—an experience that sparked her passion for aesthetics.
After completing her master’s degree at Maryville University, Jenny worked as a nurse practitioner in complex neurosurgery and emergency medicine before transitioning to cosmetic medicine, where she truly found her calling. She has undergone extensive training with Dr. Nayak and leading industry experts, mastering a wide range of aesthetic treatments. Beyond injectables and cosmetic procedures, she is passionate about helping patients create personalized skincare routines to enhance and maintain their results.
Known for her compassionate and artistic approach, Jenny takes pride in helping patients feel confident and beautiful. She strives to be a positive influence in their lives, blending medical expertise with an eye for aesthetics to achieve natural, rejuvenated results. She is excited to guide you on your journey to looking and feeling your best!
Aesthetic Nurse & Injection Specialist
Tim Kaplan BSN, RN graduated from the University of Missouri with a BS in Biological Sciences and from the University of Missouri–St. Louis (UMSL) with a BS in Nursing, graduating with honors. He began his career in aesthetics as a spa coordinator while in nursing school and later transitioned to an aesthetic nurse injector after earning his license. In addition to his aesthetic work, Tim also gained valuable experience working bedside before fully committing to aesthetics in 2020. Most recently, he served as a regional trainer for Merz Aesthetics, providing hundreds of trainings to injectors over the past two years.
OR Director/Surgical NP
Karen Tharp, FNP-BC, is a dual board-certified family nurse practitioner with over 20 years of experience specializing in surgical aesthetic procedures. A Missouri native, she graduated at the top of her class from Barnes College of Nursing at the University of Missouri–St. Louis, earning honors for both her bachelor's and master's degrees in nursing.
Karen began her career as a key member of the cardiothoracic operating room teams at Barnes-Jewish Hospital and St. Luke's Hospital in St. Louis, where she refined her surgical skills. She further developed her expertise as a surgical first assistant in an orthopedic practice before transitioning to dermatology and cosmetic medicine. There, she combined her artistic eye with her surgical knowledge to enhance patients’ confidence through dermatologic care and cosmetic skin and hair treatments.
Dedicated to providing comprehensive care, Karen supports patients throughout the entire perioperative journey—helping them prepare for aesthetic procedures, assisting in surgery, and ensuring a smooth recovery postoperatively. Passionate about helping individuals achieve a naturally beautiful and youthful look, she takes pride in helping patients feel their best.
Outside of work, Karen has been happily married since 2000 and is the proud mother of two active sons. She enjoys spending time outdoors, whether attending her sons' sporting events, hiking, boating, or relaxing with family at their cabin on the Current River. Guided by her strong faith, Karen finds fulfillment in serving others and bringing kindness and care to those around her.
Surgical Assistant & Surgical Technologist
Joanie is a certified surgical technologist who graduated from Southern Illinois Collegiate Common Market and brings both skill and enthusiasm to Nayak Plastic Surgery. With over 12 years of experience in the operating room, she spent two years in Seattle as part of the Open Heart Team before returning to St. Louis to pursue her passion for plastic surgery. Joanie has a special interest in facial rejuvenation and is excited to be part of a team dedicated to helping patients look and feel their best.
Surgical Nurse
Kelly earned her Associate of Applied Science in Nursing from Southwestern Illinois College in Belleville before completing her Bachelor of Science in Nursing at Southern Illinois University, Edwardsville. With two years of hospital operating room experience, she was a member of the DaVinci XI robotic surgical team and remains an active member of the Association of periOperative Registered Nurses (AORN).
At Nayak Plastic Surgery, Kelly plays a vital role in post-operative patient care, assisting patients immediately after surgery and during their follow-up appointments. She also supports Dr. Nayak during office hours, ensuring a seamless and supportive experience for every patient. Committed to providing safe, compassionate, and ethical nursing care, Kelly is thrilled to be part of the Nayak team and looks forward to helping patients throughout their aesthetic journey.
Surgical Nurse
Megan joined the Nayak Plastic Surgery team in August 2017, bringing a strong background in both the medical and spa industries. She earned her Bachelor of Arts and Science in Sociology in 2011 before obtaining her Clinical Medical Assistant certification in 2016. Her passion for patient care led her to further her education, and in 2020, she earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing (GN-BSN).
With over a decade of experience, Megan has extensive knowledge of the procedures and treatments offered at Nayak Plastic Surgery and Avani Derm Spa. She is dedicated to providing exceptional care and is excited to share her expertise with every patient she meets.
Surgical Nurse
Emily began her nursing career at Barnes-Jewish Hospital, always driven by the goal of working in the operating room with a focus on plastic surgery. She spent two years on a Bone Marrow Transplant unit before transitioning to the OR, where she specialized in colorectal, gynecological, urology, minimally invasive, bariatric, and robotic surgeries.
Eager to expand her expertise as an OR nurse, Emily saw joining Nayak Plastic Surgery as the perfect next step in her career. She is thrilled to be part of a team dedicated to helping patients achieve their personal goals and feels grateful for the opportunity to contribute to their transformative journeys.
Medical Assistant
Jenny earned her Bachelor of Science in Investigative and Medical Sciences from Saint Louis University and is currently preparing to apply to physician assistant programs. She plays a key role in assisting with preoperative and postoperative appointments, as well as supporting Dr. Nayak during office hours.
With a strong passion for surgery, Jenny is eager to expand her knowledge of plastic surgery while delivering compassionate, patient-centered care. She is excited to be part of the Nayak Plastic Surgery team and looks forward to gaining valuable experience in the field.
Anna combines clinical expertise with a warm, patient-centered approach in her role at Nayak Plastic Surgery. With a background as an ICU nurse at St. Luke’s Hospital, she brings extensive experience in providing attentive, high-quality care. Her passion for surgical aesthetics and cosmetic treatments led her to join the Nayak team, where she loves helping patients feel confident, comfortable, and supported every step of the way. She’s proud to be part of a team that patients trust for both exceptional results and personalized, compassionate care.
Mariah has been a nurse for 10 years, graduating from Southeast Missouri State University with her BSN. She focused her nursing care experience on cardiovascular patients on an acute cardiac care unit, then transferred to the Cardiothoracic OR at the beginning of 2019. From there she obtained her RN First Assist surgical training and specialized in endoscopic vein and artery graft harvesting. She is very excited to utilize the surgical skills she has acquired within the practice of plastic surgery. Mariah loves caring for patients throughout their surgical journeys and being a part of their transformation inside and out.
