Every year, the Aesthetic & Anti-Aging Medicine World Congress (AMWC) recognises trailblazing professionals whose work redefines the boundaries of aesthetic medicine. The AMWC Aesthetic Disruptors Prize was created to spotlight the next generation of innovators—those whose clinical research, technological insight, and patient-centred approaches are driving the specialty forward.
Selected through a rigorous judging process that evaluates relevance, coherence, scientific validity, originality, and evidence-based practice, this year’s winners reflect the global scope and interdisciplinary nature of the field. Let’s meet the 2025 disruptors who are not only challenging the status quo but also shaping the aesthetic medicine of tomorrow.
Surgical & Translational Research Winner
Dr. Sebastian P. Nischwitz (Austria)
Title: The Art of Empathy: Elevating Aesthetics through Emotional Intelligence
An accomplished surgeon and scholar, Dr. Nischwitz is pioneering a powerful idea: empathy is not just a soft skill—it’s a clinical imperative. Through his project, he explores how emotional intelligence can elevate patient outcomes, practitioner decision-making, and the overall aesthetic experience. With two doctorates, a venia docendi in plastic surgery, and an MSc in Leadership & Management, Dr. Nischwitz is also the founder of the Research Unit for Responsible Aesthetics in Graz. His work challenges the field to not only look at the how of aesthetic interventions, but the why.
Dermatology Winner
Dr. Alena Roessle (Germany)
Title: Objectification of Skin Firmness: In Vivo Evaluation of 300 Women in Relation to Age
Dr. Roessle’s research tackles a common clinical challenge: how do we objectively assess skin firmness? Drawing on data from 300 women, her in vivo evaluation sheds light on the interplay between age and skin quality—an area crucial to personalised treatment. With academic roots in cosmetic science and dermatological research under Prof. Martina Kerscher at the University of Hamburg, she represents the new wave of evidence-led aesthetic dermatologists.
Safety Winner
Dr. Caroline Wilde (United Kingdom)
Title: The Post-Hyaluronidase Syndrome
At a time when patient safety is paramount, Dr. Wilde’s investigation into post-hyaluronidase complications is both timely and critical. A consultant ophthalmic and oculoplastic surgeon in London, she blends surgical precision with a keen eye for aesthetics. With a Master’s in Research, over 20 publications, and a Théa Trophy under her belt, Dr. Wilde is helping define new safety protocols to ensure reliable and predictable outcomes in filler correction and complication management.
Tech 5.0 Winner
Dr. Hasan Buyukdogan (Turkey)
Title: Comparative Analysis of a Novel AI Language Model, Oxkair, versus ChatGPT-4.0 and FDA Guidelines in Patient Education
Bridging AI and aesthetic practice, Dr. Buyukdogan’s work is a glimpse into the future of digital patient communication. His study compares a new AI model, Oxkair, with ChatGPT-4.0 and FDA guidelines, aiming to improve the clarity and safety of patient education in aesthetics. A former assistant professor, board-certified surgeon, and winner of the “Innovative Surgeon of the Year” award, he now leads his own clinic in Istanbul, specialising in high-tech body sculpting and facial rejuvenation.
