From Consultation to Transformation: Kachiu Lee, MD, MPH, FAAD, Emphasizes Strategic Aesthetics at PDPA 2025

At the 2025 PDPA Conference, Kachiu Lee, MD, MPH, FAAD, a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist at Main Line Center for Laser Surgery and assistant professor at the Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University, presented her session titled “From Consultation to Transformation: A Multimodal Approach to Aesthetic Dermatology.” In her talk, Lee emphasized that effective cosmetic results don't require expensive or cutting-edge technology. Instead, outstanding outcomes can be achieved through strategic use of injectables like fillers and neurotoxins, chemical peels, and quality skincare. She highlighted that having clear conversations and building trust with patients are far more valuable than owning the latest laser devices.

“As long as you understand what the patient's true concern is, gain their trust and start from there to really help them along their journey to feeling really great about themselves and the way that they look,” Lee said in an interview with Dermatology Times.

Reflecting on this year’s PDPA Keystone, Lee shared that her favorite part was the community of enthusiastic and curious attendees of PAs, NPs, and physicians alike who created a welcoming environment for open learning. She appreciated the opportunity to gain insights into areas outside her specialty, including nail disorders and pigmented lesions. According to Lee, whether you're new to dermatology or a seasoned PA, the PDPA Keystone conference offers a supportive and enriching experience for all.

“I really loved being in this non-judgmental environment where I felt like I could really ask questions, learn openly, and have this community that was so supportive,” she said.

Looking ahead to 2026, Lee is excited about the upcoming innovations in dermatology. She noted the promise of new oral treatments for chronic conditions like vitiligo, alopecia, atopic dermatitis, and psoriasis, which are particularly beneficial for patients who struggle with or fear injections. She’s also looking forward to seeing how future PDPA events will continue to foster community.

On the research front, Lee is actively involved in clinical trials focused on combining skincare with lasers and neuromodulators, which are showing synergistic benefits. She’s also enthusiastic about the anticipated expansion of aesthetic treatment options in the US, including new neuromodulators and fillers already available internationally. These additions will offer dermatologists more flexibility in customizing treatments for individual patients, enhancing results and satisfaction.