Edward Gross, M.D. – Board Certified Facial Plastic Surgeon

Edward Gross, M.D. – Board Certified Facial Plastic Surgeon

Edward J. Gross, M.D. is one of only 750 surgeons worldwide that are board certified by the American Board of Facial Plastic Surgery (ABFPRS). He is an esteemed member of the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and graduated with honors from the University of Miami, where he received his Doctor of Medicine degree in 1989. He continued his surgical residency in Boston at Tufts University and Boston University, and was then granted a Fellowship in Facial Plastic Surgery at Indiana University.  He has been in practice for 17 years and has earned the trust and referrals of the medical community in Orlando.

Dr. Gross is widely acknowledged as Orlando’s premier expert in facial plastic and reconstructive surgery, specializing in Rhinoplasty and Revison Rhinoplasty. He is qualified by the Florida Board of Medicine.  He is affiliated with the Orlando Regional Healthcare System (ORHS), and is recognized by the American Medical Association as a “Physician Who Cares”.  He participates in charitable programs to support the Orlando community including: Pathways to Home, Arnold Palmer Children’s Hospital,  Harbor House, and Harvest Time International. Dr. Gross also gives his time and talents to FACE TO FACE and Faces of Honor. These Academy-sponsored charities provide humanitarian assistance and pro-bono surgical relief to women of domestic abuse, children suffering from facial deformities, and servicemen and women with facial scarring.

Dr. Gross is active in the medical community and is President-elect of the Florida Society of Facial Plastic Surgery (FSFPS) and past-President of the Seminole County Medical Society.  Dr. Gross also serves as a Volunteer Faculty member at the University of Central Florida College of Medicine.

With a deep commitment to his profession, Dr. Gross’ focus is providing patients top quality care, precision artistry as a surgeon, and warmth from a physician who genuinely cares about his patients.  From the initial consultation to post-op and recovery care, Dr. Gross is dedicated to you and your well-being.

Edward J. Gross, M.D. ~ Trust Your Face to a Facial Plastic Surgeon.

Michelle Giglio, PA-C

Michelle Giglio, PA-C

Hello, I am Michelle Giglio, a board certified physician assistant (PA-C).  I graduated with honors in 2006 from Nova Southeastern University in Fort Lauderdale, with a Masters Degree in Medical Science.  My professional memberships include the Florida Academy of Physician Assistants and the American Academy of Physician Assistants.  My clinical experience over the years has consisted of training in various types of injections.  I have had the benefit of receiving advanced training from the gifted hands of Dr. Gross, as well as from major companies in the plastic surgery field.     These include Allergan (Botox and Juvederm), Medicis (Dysport and Restylane), Merz (Radiesse) , and Sculptra.

Here at Primera, I evaluate each individual patient in a customized manner, to help identify specific cosmetic concerns and goals of treatment.  My careful attention to detail will ensure your optimal result, whether you are receiving an injectable or laser treatment.   At Primera, our focus is on the patient, which is evident in the friendly, compassionate staff that I am grateful to work with.

In my personal time, I enjoy biking outdoors and doing activities with my family; including my husband Mike, and our 4 year-old daughter Ashley.

Cindy Nester – Receptionist

Cindy Nester – Receptionist

Welcome! My name is Cindy Nester, and I am the “smiling face” that will greet you at Dr.Gross’ office and put you at ease because I am confident that you have come to the BEST (voted #1 in Orlando) plastic surgeon in Florida. As Dr. Gross’ receptionist, my utmost goal is unforgettable customer service, and because all of us feel the same way, your experience here will be everything for which you had hoped.

I have been in the medical field for 30 years, working in plastic surgery, neurology, and urology. I grew up in South Florida, and I have the sun damage to prove it! (Remember the baby oil?) I am the ‘senior’ of the group with 8 grandchildren. They are my favorite past time along with reading, traveling and the great outdoors!

I was thrilled when I was offered the opportunity to work with Dr. Gross. I am especially proud that I have been here for 9 years, working in a wonderful environment with exceptional people helping an incomparable surgeon to create the best team to serve your every need and offer you the best life-changing experience.  I can’t wait to meet you!!!

Candice Novitchkov – Practice Administrator

Candice Novitchkov – Practice Administrator

Hello, I’m Candice Novitchkov. I’m the Practice Administrator at Primera Plastic Surgery. A native to the Longwood-Lake Mary area, I graduated from The University of Florida where I received my Bachelor of Science degree in Economics. My background experiences include working in the salon and spa industry, where I cultivated my true passion for plastic surgery. Immersed in Plastic Surgery services for several years now, I feel honored to be working with Orlando’s best and most recognized Facial Plastic Surgeon Edward J. Gross, M.D.  I’m truly fortunate to work with a dedicated team of professionals who go above and beyond to provide each patient with an unforgettable experience. I plan to exceed all your expectations as I look forward to meeting you and assisting Primera patients with all of their aesthetic goals.

James Freeman – Cosmetic Coordinator

James Freeman – Cosmetic Coordinator

Hello, my name is James Freeman. I am the Cosmetic Coordinator for Dr. Gross. My role is to make your experience from initial contact and subsequent visits to our office as smooth and pleasurable as possible.

I love my job and I take great pleasure in my role in making people happy. 

Having originated from the mountains of Kentucky and attended nursing school there, I moved to Florida to begin my career in medicine. I worked for South Seminole at the West Lake Hospital for my first 2 years as a psychiatric nurse on their Intensive Psychiatric Unit.

I then accepted a great position at Florida Hospital South in the Adolescent Psychiatric Unit working with troubled teenagers. I played a vital role in developing many programs for the unit and had 12 rewarding years working with kids. I then transitioned to cardiology, taking a position at Florida Hospital South. Florida Hospital is nationally known for its high-level cardiac care, of which I wanted to be a part.

After approximately 3 years, I was offered a position in the office of one of Orlando’s leading interventional, nationally-recognized cardiologist, Dr. Pradip Jamnadas. I worked with Dr. Jamnadas as his clinical coordinator for approximately 4 years.

Before joining the office as an employee, I had known Dr. Gross  for several years and have always been impressed by his kindness and genuine concern for others. It came as no surprise to learn that he was also an extremely talented surgeon, an artist, and dedicated to his patients (and staff). 

I have been working with Dr. Gross since 2004 and have witnessesd many “dreams come true” with his gifted hands.  I am truly happy here. Our office is fun, upbeat, professional,  and it is a pleasure to come to work each day. The passion Dr. Gross brings to his profession and the wonderful team spirit here is a winning combination. Meeting Dr. Gross and our staff will be a rewarding and valuable experience for you. I look forward to meeting you soon.

Becky Blose – Certified Surgical Technician

Becky Blose – Certified Surgical Technician

Hello! I’m Becky Blose, and I am the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) at Primera Plastic Surgery. My responsibility includes carefully assisting Dr. Gross during surgeries. I am a Certified through the Association of Surgical Technologists.

I am a Florida native and have been a CST for several years. I strive to treat all patients with compassion and respect. Along with Dr. Gross, I commit to providing you with excellent care before, during and after your procedure.

I love my profession and I sincerely enjoy helping others. Therefore, being a CST, and helping Dr. Gross achieve patient’s aesthetic goals, is truly an enjoyable experience. Additionally, I enjoy spending time with family and look forward to meeting and welcoming you to the Primera family.

Cheryl Armstrong – Primera Medical Assistant

Cheryl Armstrong – Primera Medical Assistant

Hello my name is Cheryl Armstrong.  I am a receptionist and certified medical assistant at Primera. I’ve been in the cosmetic industry since 2006 and I have a great husband and a beautiful little girl. We share a very happy home here in Central Florida.

I am very excited to be working with such a gifted and talented surgeon. Seeing happy people every day at Primera makes my career choice very satisfying. When you visit our office, you’ll understand why Dr. Gross was voted best plastic surgeon in Orlando several years in a row. Please feel free to call our office anytime- you’ll be glad you did.  I look forward to talking with you soon.

Doug Deszell – Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist

Doug Deszell – Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist

Hello. My name is Doug Deszell. I am a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist ARNP1453122  at  Primera Surgery Center.

My job is to ensure that during your surgery you will be safe, comfortable and completely asleep while under the anesthetic. I will remain with you throughout your surgery, monitoring vital signs and titrating the anesthesia making certain that all goes well.

I have been a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist since 1983. I attended St. Vincent Hospital School of Anesthesia for Nurses in Toledo, Ohio. I am a member of the American Association of Nurse Anesthetists and Certified in Advanced Cardiac Life Support.

Over 15 of my 25+ years of working as an Anesthesia provider have been devoted exclusively to working with Plastic Surgery Patients who are having outpatient surgery. I have provided anesthesia and have experience  for many other types of major surgery which include Open Heart, Neuro, Orthopedics, Pediatrics, OB/GYN, Robotic Assisted, Urology, Major Vascular, Endoscopy and most other Inpatient and Outpatient Surgeries.

I really enjoy working along side Dr. Gross and being a part of the Primera team. It is a pleasure to work with such a talented and dedicated surgeon who brings passion to his field. The service here is top notch, professional, and well- organized. In addition, the facilitiy is spotless, well-maintained, and an example of the doctor’s attention to detail.  We will treat you like family here and I look forward to meeting you.

Diane Gray, R.N.

Diane Gray, R.N.

Hello! I am Diane Gray, a registered nurse (RN), at Primera Plastic Surgery and Primera SlimSpa. I started my nursing career in Gainesville, Florida where I received my nursing degree and worked as a Trauma/Surgical RN for 2 years. I moved back “home” to central Florida to receive my BSN in nursing at UCF and have worked as an ICU nurse for 3 years in Winter Park. I have also been privileged to work with the amazing Primera team for the past year as the director of surgical nursing.

I am honored to be a member of the Primera team, specializing in Primera SlimSpa. I am currently completing my masters degree as an Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, with focus on weight loss-  to promote illness prevention and holistic health. My true passion in nursing is to help people attain and maintain a healthy lifestyle from the inside out and Primera SlimSpa is the key to this transformation. I look forward to working with you side by side you on your journey to a healthier you at Primera SlimSpa…”Beauty from the inside out!”

Debbie Safra – Medical Aesthetician

Debbie Safra – Medical Aesthetician

Hello my name is Debbie Safra a licensed Aesthetician since 1997. Over the years I have received advanced medical aesthetic training with Dr Zein Obagi, La Roche Posay Bio Medic, Advanced Aesthetics Lasers, Epicuren Discovery, and SkinCeuticals, amongst many other pharmaceutical and spa treatment lines. In 2007 I took a national 1200 hour exam as a personal step forward to help raise the educational standards of the skin care industry to become a National Certified Aesthetician, along with a subject matter expert (SME) with the NCEA (National Coalition of Estheticians). My promise as a National Certified Aesthetican is to educate the public and serve the best interest of patients at all times and to provide the highest quality service, along with giving patients clear and realistic goals and outcomes by not making false claims regarding potential benefits of the services rendered or products recommended.

As a lecturer and author I have written published articles relating to skin health and sun damage. I volunteer my time with the American Cancer Society’s “Look Good…Feel Better” program. I am also a member of the Society of Dermatology Skin Care Specialist, The American Dietetics Association, and the Institute of Food Technology. My leisure time is spent raising my daughter, playing tennis, movies, and reading.

I look forward to assisting you with your skin care needs at Primera Day Spa and Salon.

Laurie Owen – International Hair Professional

Laurie Owen – International Hair Professional

Hello!  My name is Laurie Owen.  I am a Licensed Master Cosmetologist & a Expert in Skin, Hair and Nails.  I graduated from North Fulton Beauty College in Atlanta, Georgia.  After graduation, I trained with the elite hair salons of Juan Juan in Beverly Hills, California and Jamison Shaw in Atlanta, Georgia.  I hold an international license and specialize in European haircutting techniques.  I am an expert in color.  It’s amazing what the perfect cut and color can do to enhance your natural beauty.

I am also a permanent makeup artist with training in makeup design and extensive permanent makeup training from Cheryl Steinberg Rosenblum – one of the leading instructors of permanent cosmetics.  I have trained in the hand tool method and the standard pen machine method.  Unlike the solid fill-in tattooed eyebrow 10 years ago, today’s permanent cosmetic applies pigments in Feathering Strokes to mimic the appearance of hair. This results in a softer, more natural appearance.  In addition to my training, I am also a member of the Cosmetic Tattoo Association and the Conventional Cosmetic Tattoo Association.  I love what I do and have a large client base that I still service in Georgia.  I would love to enhance your natural beauty with my skills.

Jennifer Sarao – Expert Hair Artist

Jennifer Sarao – Expert Hair Artist

Hello! My name is Jennifer Sarao and I was born in Montreal, Canada and reside in Orlando. I have been in the salon industry for 9 years and also work as a L’Oreal Professionel Educator. I specialize in cut and color and always keep up to date with the newest techniques and trends. I am also a So Cap Extension specialist, which ranges for clients that want longer, thicker hair or just some fun colors. My clients know me somewhat as a product junkie because I refer them only the best products and I make sure I use them on myself first. I believe in giving my clients an education, and experience, and a look. I think it is important for them to know what kind of products I am using in their hair and let them know why I am using the color I have chosen that best suits them. The more I can bond with a client, the more I see the strengths of their personality. Then I  can best tailor my services for their needs.  I look forward to meeting you soon.

01/13 - Botox & Bubbly – Thursday, February 9th, 5:30 – 7:30 p.m.
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12/13 - “Mistletoe & Martinis” Holiday Event Pictures
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11/16 - Update Your Profile at Primera
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