I am a former president of the Panamanian Association of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. I am very committed to helping my patients achieve their goals in an safe, modern and confortable environment. I graduated from the school of medicine of the University of Panama in 1983; then I went on to train in general surgery and Plastic Surgery at McGill University in Montreal, Canada. Before returning to the city of Panama in the year 2000, I was the medical director of the Institute of Plastic Surgery in Miami, Florida, where I practiced for almost 10 years. I have done training Fellowships in Aesthetic Surgery, Microsurgery and Surgery Skull and Maxillofacial.
Having spent time in Panama previously—and knowing its reputation for excellent healthcare—I was aware that Panama City offered sophisticated medical services. But I had no idea the same level of integrity, expertise, and personalized care existed in the world of plastic surgery… until met Dr. Luis Picard Ami. From the moment I met him, I was struck by his honesty, empathy, and calm confidence. He didn’t tell me what I wanted to hear—he told me what I needed to hear. That gave me instant trust in him and in the process. By the end of our first meeting on a Monday afternoon, I knew I had found the right surgeon. I had also consulted with another highly regarded surgeon in Panama City. But after meeting Dr. Picard Ami, I felt such a profound sense of trust, clarity, and alignment that I scheduled surgery for two days later. That’s how sure I was. Dr. Picard Ami has that rare combination of world-class surgical skill and genuine, human-centered care. It was important to me to know that he trained at top institutions including McGill University and the University of Miami and has practiced for over 32 years across the U.S., Canada, and Panama. And it was vital that I knew he held multiple elite board certifications—American Board of Plastic Surgery, American College of Surgeons, and the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada—and is a former president of the Panamanian Association of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. But technical expertise is just part of the story. His bedside manner is extraordinary: calm, compassionate, and always honest. He listens deeply, answers every question thoroughly, and never rushes the conversation. During our consultation, he even suggested a few thoughtful enhancements—subtle, related touches I hadn’t considered—that made a dramatic difference in my final results. These weren’t upsells; they were insights from a master who truly sees the whole person and wants you to feel your absolute best. I’d had a previous U.S. consultation years ago for liposuction where every small section of my abdomen was quoted as a separate fee. With Dr. Picard Ami, there’s none of that. He doesn’t “add on” or segment your body into billable zones. He’s interested in creating beautiful, cohesive results that serve you, not his bottom line. His entire team is just as exceptional. Everyone speaks English, and from start to finish, it felt like I had an entire group of professionals on my side, focused on supporting me emotionally, physically, and medically…from my first visit, through surgery and post-op support, treatments and care. When I had a minor concern post-op which needed up being nothing, Dr. Picard Ami followed up personally, even calling the hospital on a Sunday and checking in on me several times. He continues to check in regularly via WhatsApp and in-person appointments. The surgical facilities and Panama Clinic are state-of-the-art. You are not sacrificing anything in the way of top-notch care, protocols and expertise. If you’re coming from abroad, it’s all incredibly easy: Panama City is modern and safe, the airport is nearby, and you can stay at the Marriott next to the clinic (they offer special pricing for patients and even wellness support if you’re traveling solo like I did). The results I have experienced are far beyond what I hoped for—and I genuinely feel like a new person who has reconnected with the woman I was before menopause. I am literally giddy with the joy I feel and the confidence this experience has reignited in me. I have Dr. Picard Ami and team to thank for this! Dr. Picard Ami is a master of his craft and a person of high integrity, judgment, and kindness. He’s genuinely excited about your transformation and its impact on your life. Suffice to say he is “all in” with you to realize your vision and and even exceed it. I feel so lucky to have found him—and I recommend him with my whole heart.
For the past year, I have been contemplating facial cosmetic surgery to restore some of the firmness that more than six decades of living had taken from me, leaving me with facial laxity, hooded eyes and sagging jowls and neck. When it’s your face, you can’t make cosmetic procedure decisions lightly without fully researching the work, and most importantly the surgeon who will perform the work. My research led me to surgeons from Beverly Hills to Washington, DC. A planned trip to Panama, resulted in expanding my search there, too, and a consultation with plastic surgeon, Dr. Luis Picard-Ami. I knew from our first consultation that Dr. Picard-Ami would be the one that I would put my faith in, and that trust was well-placed. Dr. Picard-Ami is truly a remarkable plastic surgeon. His attention to detail, accessibility, and genuine care for his patients set him apart. From the moment I met with Dr. Picard-Ami, I felt valued and heard. He took the time to listen to my concerns, answer all of my questions, and alleviate any anxieties I had about the procedures he recommended which, incidentally, were the same things that the other plastic surgeons with large social media followings, recommended. Throughout the entire process, Dr. Picard-Ami remained accessible, promptly responding to my calls and emails, which provided me with peace of mind. His compassionate bedside manner and unwavering support made me feel comfortable and confident every step of the way. This is important because I had complications caused by my blood pressure. Even in the face of complications, Dr. Picard-Ami remained in control and handled the emergent situation, and was always, always, always available to answer my questions and ease my concerns. I cannot recommend Dr. Picard-Ami enough for his exceptional care and commitment to his patients' well-being. A month out of surgery and I am healing nicely. I’ve gotten numerous compliments from friends and family who think Panama agreed with me; no one asked if I had work done. My intention was to be a better version of me. Dr. Picard-Ami promised to give me that and he delivered. I only have one regret: I wish I could have Dr. Luis Picard-Ami for ALL of my health-care needs. He is wonderful!
I am a 62 year old woman who came to Dr Ami with droopy eyelids and bags under my eyes. I thought that removing the bags would be the procedure he would recommend. He told me that would only create dark concave circles instead. So, he pulled up the extra skin under my eyes and removed the upper eyelid skin to create a natural looking eye instead. I am so pleased with my results! People are telling me I look so “bright” now. Many do not know I had a procedure done, only that I look great. I feel so much better about myself. I highly recommend Dr Ami. He is personable, down to earth with no pretense and makes one feel at ease.
From beginning to end, coupled with preoperative discussions and post operative appointments and therapies, no question was left unanswered. Every step of the way, my questions and concerns were handled in a timely manner and with careful thought. Every staff member was exceptional. In my case, I had some post-surgical complications. When the doctor became aware of my complications, he personally contacted me immediately, to discuss next steps toward resolution. In addition, he made the time on his calendar to resolve my complications, immediately. As a medical sales professional, I have the access and resources to information that the average person may not. When I decided to have surgery, after meeting with Dr. Picard, my decision was easy. The entire process exceeded my expectations. At the time I write this, I am approximately 3 weeks post op and the follow up and communications continue to be timely and thorough; even though I am in the USA now. As a result of the excellent service and results that I received, I plan to have another surgery in the future and I will use Dr. Luis Picard-Ami, Jr. again.
I had an awesome experience with Dr. Picard-Ami. He was very professional and informative of all the steps I would be going through. I found him to be very attentive to every question and concern I had. No matter how busy he was, he always found the time to personally e-mail or call me to address my concerns.. His staff was equally pleasant to work with. I highly recommend Dr. Picard-Ami.
My experience with Dr. Luis Picard-Ami Jr and his staff at Impilo Plastic Surgery and Medical Spa has been extraordinary! The first consultation was very thorough. Dr. Picard-Ami spent a great deal of time examining me and addressing all my questions and concerns. Once the decision was made to move forward (due to COVID-19 it was a year in planning) he continued to respond to my emails and text messages, usually within 24 hours. He or his staff made all the arrangements for me, from the time I landed at the airport until I returned to the airport. This included getting through immigration and customs, as well as transportation to/from the airport and hotel. The added services of The Panama Clinic made this experience easier and less stressful. The fact that the hotel was connected to the hospital made getting to and from appointments convenient. The Impilo staff was professional, friendly, and caring. Many spoke English and those who did not go out of their way to make themselves understood. The surgery, Brachioplasty, circumferential belt lipectomy, and medial thigh lift, went well and I am incredibly pleased with the results. I totally recommend Dr. Luis Picard-Ami Jr and the Impilo Plastic Surgery and Medical Spa.
After exploring lower face & neck lift surgery in my home state and finding it far more expensive than I was comfortable with, I looked for more affordable options abroad and discovered the services of Dr. Luis Picard-Ami, Jr. in Panama City. Six months after an initial consultation in his office at the Punta Pacifica Hospital (one of the best hospitals in Central America), I returned to Panama in late June and underwent face and neck lift surgery under his most capable hands at his surgical facility in the Congrejo neighborhood of Panama City. A bit past three months post-surgery I can report how happy I am with the results of his work and how satisfied I am with the entire experience. Dr. Picard-Ami is a very experienced and very talented plastic surgeon. Fluent in English (the good doctor spent a decade practicing in Miami), he is also a very warm and friendly person. He exudes confidence and is very reassuring, and he provided great personal care to me during the two weeks I remained in the city during the initial recovery period and removal of sutures. I have nothing but the highest praise for him, his personal staff, and the tender services of his affiliated massage therapists who provided physical therapy post-surgery. Being a medical tourist takes some courage and costs added money to stay in-country for a while, but the professionalism of the services that can be had at a most affordable price outside the U.S. can't be beat. Based on my experience in Panama (and this was the first overseas time among four plastic surgery procedures I have had on my face over the course of 40 years - all of which have been very personally satisfying), prospective patients should definitely consider looking abroad. Panama City is a great place to consider for the excellence of the facilities, the professionalism of the doctors and support personnel, and the warmth and friendliness of the Panamanian people.
I’m a 61year old female who had their first plastic surgery Jan 2019. Doctor Picard Ami is an excellent surgeon with a personal interest in the best and most realistic outcomes. I loved my results!!!
I went to Dr. Picard-Ami after losing a lot of weight and needing to get extra skin removed and a breast augmentation. He and his staff were wonderful. I have had such a wonderful and lasting result from this surgery. I highly recommend his services and I have suggested him to many of my friends who want to have some "touch ups" done. When I am ready for additional work, I will definitely be touching base with Dr. Picard-Ami again.
I had an amazing experience with Dr. Picard Ami and his staff before and after de surgery. Always made me feel comfortable and safe. Had a smooth recovery, perfect scarring and I feel my nipples perfectly! Always answered my texts and calls If I had any questions! If I get anything done again I would go to Dr. Picard Ami without hesitation! No complaints and I'm extremely happy with my results! The best in Panama!
Usually seromas respond to serial aspiration and usually last two to three weeks to completely resolve. If not responding to serial aspiration, quilting sutures is an option. Fortunately, the problem area is behind the ear and should eventually heal without much of a visible mark. Worst case scenario your surgeon can perform a scar revision in that area once everything has healed and the scar matured. Hang in there and trust your and follow his instructions I am sure it will resolve favorably. You can also get a second opinion from an experienced surgeon.
Hi: Because of your skin quality you are not a candidate for liposuction. This would only leave you with extra loose skin. You seem to be a great candidate for a tummytuck. Due to the stretching of the abdomen during the pregnancy most likely your abdominal wall muscles are weak giving you the round shape. A tummytuck or abdominoplasty will correct all this. It would tighten your abdominal wall muscles (giving you a flat abdomen), remove the extra skin and should also give you the best contour by removing the extra fat from the flanks and upper hip which is done with liposuction at the same time. Make sure you see a board certified plastic surgeon and discuss all your options with him. Good luck. Luis A. Picard Ami Jr, MD, FRCSC, FACS
There is no correct answer, both options are possible and depend on multiple factors which are specific to your particular situation. They each have their pro and cons and you should discuss these carefully with your surgeon. As soon as your surgeon feels there is no evidence of infection and the tissues are soft enough to allow re advancement your surgeon can close the wound. This first option, is surgery, would be quicker than allowing the vac and wound contracture to close the defect, however there is always the risk of running into wound healing problems again. The second option, non surgical ie: the VAC, is safer but it will take a long time. There are several other factors to consider in addition to time such as, other possible medical conditions, nutrition, smoking history and cost and these need to be discussed so together with your surgeon you can come up with the rigth solution for you under your specific circumstances.
Hi: Unless there was a wound healing problem you should not need a marble or any other device to keep the shape and size of the umbilicus to what the surgeon designed and made during the surgery. I would only use it if there is a problem and the size seems to be getting smaller and or shrinking. I would certainly check with your surgeon before you do anything to your scars specially if you are still in the first two or three weeks after surgery. If I were to recommend this to a patient of mine I would do it as soon as I see a problem that would end up reducing the opening of the belly button.
Your situation is not easy. There are multiple factor that can be contributing to your pain and because of this you may have to try more than one remedy to improve the pain. Time will always make things better regardless of what you do, time will always help in diminishing the symptoms to make them tolerable or eliminate completely. In the meantime I would suggest the following. Physical therapy with a de-sensitization program, you can ask any physical therapy department of a hospital near you. They also so this programs for patients who have suffered other kinds of physical trauma. They can try soft progressive massages, ultrasound and other techniques that can help decrease the inflammation. Decreasing the inflammatory effect will help the nerve ending become less sensitive. You could also visit a pain specialist which can suggest a pain management program with more that one pain medicine which is always more effective than treating the pain with a single agent or over the counter medications. At home there are also things you can do; cold compresses for the pain areas; moisturizers and silicone based gels for the dryness of the skin. If the scars are becoming dark you could also benefit by using a skin bleaching cream. As a last resort after all else has been exhausted we have seen that if the area of pain is localized sometimes performing fat grafts (transplant of your own fat) over that specific area can also help. Fat grafts will bring new fat for cushion and several growth factors and stem cells that can sometimes improve the circulation, the appearance of the skin and decrease your symptoms. Your plastic surgeon should be able to advise you on this and other issues. Even if he cannot do anything surgical at this time he should continue to follow you on a close basis and or refer you that a proper specialist. Make sure whomever you see is a physician who is certified by the american board of his specific specialty. I wish you a prompt resolution of your problems.