All of our providers have established, loyal clientele and are experts in what they do. At this point in time, Dr. Nayak is no longer accepting new non-surgical patients.
We are fortunate to have an incredible team of 7 highly skilled nurse injectors and Dr. Nayak has the utmost confidence in them. Each nurse injector, whether previously-experienced or not, spends several weeks training at Dr. Nayak’s side upon joining our practice, and injects using his specific training and techniques. They actually perform all of our staff injections and treatments, including Dr. Nayak’s.
All of our providers have established, loyal clientele and are experts in what they do. At this point in time, Dr. Nayak is no longer accepting new non-surgical patients. We are fortunate to have an incredible team of 7 highly skilled nurse injectors and Dr. Nayak has the utmost confidence in them. Each nurse injector, whether previously-experienced or not, spends several weeks training at Dr. Nayak’s side upon joining our practice, and injects using his specific training and techniques. They actually perform all of our staff injections and treatments, including Dr. Nayak’s.
Avani is a former corporate attorney. In 2006, Mike and Avani opened Nayak Plastic Surgery and opened Avani Derm Spa in 2010. They began with just three employees, and in the beginning few years Avani held a variety of roles ranging from receptionist to patient consultant to marketing coordinator. Today Avani strives to keep Nayak Plastic Surgery and Avani Derm Spa at their best, with the aim of providing superior services and excellent care to patients.
Allie Israelson is the Practice Manager for Nayak Plastic Surgery and both Avani Derm Spa locations in St. Louis. Allie began her career as an esthetician and quickly learned every position necessary to become a respected leader in a burgeoning business. She was instrumental in launching the Spa in 2010 and cultivated an expertise in all services and products provided by the spa and within the competitive landscape. Allie has been instrumental in the evolution of Nayak Plastic Surgery and Avani Derm Spa, from the early days of six employees to now leading 40 highly skilled and helpful team members. Any questions or concerns will be addressed with the utmost respect and confidentiality.
Shannon Huey is knowledgeable about all of our treatments and procedures. She will be happy to assist you with appointments, pricing, or other concerns. Shannon has worked in the medical and spa field for 10 years and also has an associates degree in business.
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
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 in 2020 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!
Lindsay’s passion for skincare started at a young age after dealing with her own skin conditions. After developing melasma in her early 20’s she made the choice to leave the corporate world for the treatment room to be able to help others. She loves developing comprehensive treatment plans for her patients to find and maintain healthy skin. Her number one products are antioxidants and SPF.
As one of Dr. Nayak's consultation coordinators, Whitney is the first point of contact for patients when they reach out to our practice. The focus of her role is to act as their liaison, guiding them through our process leading into surgery. Whitney finds her role to be very meaningful and fulfilling. She is enthusiastic about getting to know each patient, and enjoys connecting with new people everyday. It is important to Whitney to remain knowledgeable, informed and up to date regarding all treatments and surgical procedures. Whitney is skilled and educated in preparing and evaluating patients for surgery, injectables, device-based procedures, and derm-spa treatments that we offer. Her background as a makeup artist, with over 20 years of experience in the beauty and esthetics industry, is what has ultimately led Whitney to find her passion in working for Dr. Nayak. She feels very grateful to play a vital role in helping patients gain a greater sense of well being and confidence.
Erin takes part in consultations with Dr. Nayak, helps with scheduling of surgery, provides financing information and coordinates surgical consultations. She serves as a point of contact for surgical patients both before and after surgery. She helps guide them through the process, starting with the initial phone call/email and keeps in touch to answer any questions or ease any concerns they may have. Coming from a history in sales and customer service, Erin believes that understanding the patient’s needs and making sure they feel comfortable are of utmost importance. She loves meeting new people and building strong long-lasting relationships to ensure an exceptional experience for all new and existing patients. Erin received her B.A. in Communications from the University of Missouri, St. Louis in 2007.
Carrie coordinates consultations and takes part in them with Dr. Nayak. She serves as the first point of contact when patients’ call in to schedule a consultation, and then guides them through our process, answering questions along the way, and making sure that the entire experience is as seamless as possible. She is knowledgeable about all of our surgical options and treatments, as well as our non-surgical options and spa services. Carrie has been in the medical field for over four years, and has a background in customer service. She enjoys meeting new people and getting to know patients through her interactions with them. Carrie has also been a patient of Dr. Nayak’s since 2006, and has experienced treatment options first-hand, which is extremely helpful in her role here as a 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.
Karen Tharp, FNP-BC is a dual board-certified family nurse practitioner with over 20 years of experience who specializes in surgical aesthetic procedures. A Missouri native, Karen attended Barnes College of Nursing at University of Missouri - St. Louis where she graduated at the top of her class and achieved honors for both bachelor’s and master’s degree of science in nursing. Following her education, Karen’s surgical technique was honed as a valued member of the cardiothoracic operating room team at both Barnes Jewish Hospital and St. Luke's Hospital in St. Louis Missouri.
She further refined her surgical skills as a surgical first assistant in an orthopedic surgeon’s office before later joining a dermatology and cosmetic medicine practice where she utilized her artistic eye and surgical prowess to help improve patient's confidence with dermatologic care and cosmetic skin and hair treatments. Karen is passionate about helping patients achieve a naturally beautiful and youthful version of themself so they look and feel their very best. Karen specializes in caring for patients throughout the whole perioperative journey. She helps prepare patients for aesthetic procedures, first assists in surgery and cares for patients postoperatively. Karen has been married since 2000 and has been blessed with two very active healthy sons. She currently lives in St. Louis Missouri. She enjoys many outdoor activities including attending her sons’ sporting games as well as hiking, boating and relaxing with the family at their cabin on the Current River. Karen has a strong faith and feels honored to shine with the light of Love being the hands and feet to serve those around her.”
Joanie graduated from Southern Illinois Collegiate Common Market with a Certificate in Surgical Technology and brings more than a smile to Nayak Plastic Surgery. She has over 12 years of Operating Room experience including two years in Seattle on the Open Heart Team. She found her way back to St. Louis to explore her special interest in Plastic Surgery. Joanie is enthusiastic to be part of facial rejuvenation.
Kelly graduated with her Associates of Applied Science Degree in Nursing from Southwestern Illinois College, Belleville before attending Southern Illinois University, Edwardsville where she completed her Bachelor of Science in Nursing. She brings 2 years of hospital OR experience where she was part of the Davinci XI robotic surgical team, and is still an active member of the AORN (Association of periOperative Registered Nurses. Along with providing care to patients immediately following surgery, Kelly also meets with patients for their post-operative care appointments and assists Dr. Nayak during his office hours. She is dedicated to providing safe, competent, compassionate and ethical nursing care. Kelly is excited to be a part of the Nayak team!
Megan, who received her Bachelors in Science of Nursing (GN-BSN) in 2020, joined the Nayak Plastic Surgery team in August of 2017. She is very knowledgeable about all of our procedures and treatments. She graduated with a Bachelors degree of Arts and Science in Sociology in 2011 and received her Clinical Medical Assistant certificate in October of 2016. Megan has been in the medical and spa industry for the past 10 years and can't wait to demonstrate her experience to the fabulous patients at Nayak Plastic Surgery & Avani Derm Spa!
Emily’s nursing career began at Barnes Jewish Hospital. She has always aspired to be in an operating room with the intention of eventually being in plastics. For two years, Emily worked on a Bone Marrow Transplant floor before making her way to the OR where she specialized in colorectal, gynecological, and urology surgery, minimally invasive surgery, bariatrics, and robotic surgery. Wanting to grow as an OR nurse, her transition to Nayak Plastic Surgery was the perfect opportunity! Emily is so excited to be a member of the team and is grateful to be a part of something that helps those achieve their personal goals.
Jenny graduated from Saint Louis University where she received her Bachelors of Science in Investigative and Medical Sciences. She is preparing to apply to physician assistant programs by assisting in preoperative and postoperative appointments and during Dr. Nayak’s office hours. With a strong interest in surgery, Jenny is excited to learn more about plastics and provide excellent, patient-centered 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.
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.
Kim Grunzinger, MSN, RN, ACNS-BC, has years of experience providing Botox Cosmetic and injectable filler treatments, and has almost twenty years’ experience assisting with surgery in Plastic, Cosmetic, and Dermatologic surgery procedures, including hair transplant.
Julie has a true passion and excitement for the aesthetic field of medicine. She is an expert in injectable fillers, Botox/Dysport, CoolSculpting, Ultherapy, lasers, and microneedling. As an experienced operating room nurse, Julie has also had the privilege to assist Dr Nayak in surgery. This experience has given her a unique opportunity to be a true expert in facial anatomy, seeing the facial structures from the inside-out. Her thorough training, creative eye, and gentle touch make for beautiful results delivered with the utmost safety.
Ashley is a nurse practitioner with a true passion for the aesthetic field of medicine. She has been extensively trained with expertise in Botox and filler injections, Ultherapy, microneedling, Cellfina, and Coolscuplting. She is enthusiastic and presents herself with a professional, yet warm manner. With a history in critical care and oncology, she develops a close rapport with her patients. She has an exceptionally artistic touch and creative eye, allowing her to deliver beautiful results. She is committed to helping her patients meet their aesthetic goals to promote well-being and confidence in pursuing other life goals as well.
Jenny Morrison, MSN, FNP-BC, is a board certified Family Nurse Practitioner. She obtained her nursing degree from The University of Missouri-Columbia, followed by 11-years as a registered nurse in a Burn Intensive Care Unit. During this time, Jenny learned the importance of restoring function and form. This experience fostered a deep passion for aesthetic care. After obtaining her master’s degree from Maryville University, she spent the next two years working as a nurse practitioner in complex neurosurgery and emergency departments. She is thrilled to now follow her passion working in cosmetic medicine. Jenny has been extensively trained by Dr. Nayak and some of the industry’s top nurse injectors and is well versed in all manner of aesthetic treatments. In addition, she has a passion for assisting patients in developing personalized skincare routines to maximize results.Jenny is compassionate, kind, and professional. She strives to be a positive force in patients’ lives and integrates artistic talent into her care. Jenny is incredibly passionate about helping patients live their best lives through restoring and enhancing their natural beauty. She is eager to help guide you on this journey!
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
Brittanie has worked in the spa industry for over seven years, both in esthetics and in an administrative capacity. She has a deeply rooted passion for skin care that started when she was young and under the care of a dermatologist. She knows the feeling of avoiding mirrors or pictures and is also familiar with the never-ending cycle of trying new products. After getting her acne cleared, Brittanie understands her struggle as a gift and wants to spend the rest of her career giving back to her patients. In her esthetics career she focuses on both acne solutions, age rejuvenation and reversal technology. Each of Brittanie’s patients receives a detailed consultation followed by a treatment plan combined with an at-home-care regime, that helps to address their unique concerns and skin conditions. Thorough this approach, she hopes to provide all of her patients with a life time of healthy, youthful and beautiful skin. Brittanie is currently pursuing her masters in Biological-Chemistry before moving on to obtain an M.D specializing in Dermatology. She is thrilled to deliver this level of knowledge to her patients during every appointment.
With 7 years of experience in the beauty industry, Heather joined us with an Esthetics License from the Skin Institute, and a Bachelors of Science in Marketing, Advertising and PR from Stephens College. Heather knows that great skin is rarely achieved through a “one size fits all” viewpoint and is excited to customize facials and treatment plans for her clients. From her own experiences with hormonal breakouts to melasma and hyperpigmentation, Heather’s passion and knowledge allow each service to be relaxing, informative and tailored to your personal needs.
Jacqueline Albert has been a licensed Esthetician and Professional Makeup Artist for over 20 years. As an entrusted professional in the skin care and beauty industry, she takes immense pride in helping others look and feel their absolute best.
With over 25 years of experience in the beauty industry, Jacqueline is a passionate esthetician known for her expertise, precision, and personalized approach. As a trusted professional, she is deeply committed to helping clients achieve luminous, healthy skin by blending advanced techniques with a holistic philosophy. Believing that true beauty radiates from within, she encourages mindful living, nourishing nutrition, and results-driven care. Her loyal clientele value her unwavering dedication to excellence and the uplifting, transformative experience she offers with every treatment.
Outside the treatment room, Jacqueline finds joy and inspiration in yoga, hiking, travel and spending quality time with family and friends- activities that fuel her passion for overall wellness. She looks forward to supporting you in your journey.
With 7 years of experience in the beauty industry, Heather joined us with an Esthetics License from the Skin Institute, and a Bachelors of Science in Marketing, Advertising and PR from Stephens College. Heather knows that great skin is rarely achieved through a “one size fits all” viewpoint and is excited to customize facials and treatment plans for her clients. From her own experiences with hormonal breakouts to melasma and hyperpigmentation, Heather’s passion and knowledge allow each service to be relaxing, informative and tailored to your personal needs.
After obtaining her license in 2022, Ellen began her aesthetics career as an intern at Nayak Plastic Surgery observing and gaining industry knowledge. She is passionate about providing personalized care and tailoring treatments to each client's unique needs and goals. She believes ongoing education and consistent training are key to providing clients with natural-looking results of the highest quality. Outside of work, Ellen stays informed on the latest treatments to ensure her clients receive the safest and most comfortable experience possible.
Mary is a skilled and certified aesthetician with over 15 years of experience in the beauty industry. She is passionate about the transformative power the latest technology brings to skincare and is dedicated to helping her clients feel refreshed and confident. As a client-centered esthetician, Mary takes pride in providing comprehensive consultations to understand each client's unique skin needs and goals. She believes that educating her clients on skincare is essential to maintaining healthy, glowing skin beyond their spa treatments.
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.
Ischla is a bilingual medical assistant with over 10 years of operating room experience. She brings warmth and precision to every patient encounter. You can see her smiling face at our new Des Peres location!
Yadi joined Nayak Plastic Surgery in December 2018. She obtained her Medical Assistant degree from SLCH in 2011 and before joining the team, she worked in pediatrics. With over 10 years of customer service experience, Yadi will gladly guide you through your next appointment, answer any questions that you may have and assist our nurse injectors during your procedures!
Emily is knowledgeable and familiar with all of the treatments here at Nayak Plastic Surgery and Avani Derm Spa and is willing to help out patients in any way possible! From starting out at as a receptionist here for over 2 years, she has now transitioned to a Medical Assistant. Emily will provide patients with the utmost care and preparation so they have the best experience with our nurses!
Rachel is an experienced medical assistant with a passion for personalized care. She has enthusiasm for working hands-on with patients and expanding her knowledge to ensure they are treated with the best possible care. She is very excited to be part of such an amazing team.
Erin joined our team as an intern in March 2021 and has elevated her role to become a medical assistant. She is driven by esthetics and psychology; committed to learning about the relationship between skin and emotional well-being. She has overcome severe acne in the past and she is passionate about guiding others towards effective solutions.
Her focus is encouraging others to see the best in themselves and acquiring knowledge in the ever-evolving esthetics industry. She is a licensed esthetician also working on her master’s in social work. She is inspired by Dr. Nayak’s team and is delighted to work alongside the best in the industry.
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!
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.
Brook is knowledgeable about all of our treatments and procedures and can assist you with appointments, pricing, or other concerns. She is extremely capable and enthusiastic about quality patient care and strives to ensure that you have an excellent experience at our office. Brook received a BA in Communications from UMKC in 2002. She has been a member of the Nayak Plastic Surgery team since 2007.
Jennifer joined Nayak Plastic Surgery in July of 2019. She comes to us with many years of experience in a medical setting, and has a strong background in customer service and patient care. She is excited to be a part of the team, and is looking forward to using her varied skill set to offer the best experience for each patient.
Melanie joined the practice in January of 2022. She is a St. Louis native who’s worked in the healthcare industry for nearly 5 years and has over 10 years in customer service. She has followed Dr. Nayak & the team for quite some time and is extremely enthusiastic to be a part of this prestigious group! Melanie has always been passionate about esthetics and looks forward to assisting you with your next visit to Nayak Plastic Surgery and Avani Derm Spa!
Paige has acquired a decades-long journey of passion and education regarding all matters related to esthetics, wellness, health, and beauty! With a formal education as an esthetician, she has long since held a deeply rooted devotedness to skin health and care - from the inside out. She takes great pride in having the ability to utilize all facets of her knowledge and skillset to empower others. No one is a stranger, everyone is a friend and is treated as such!
Alexis has a true passion for aesthetics and customer service. With three years of hands-on experience in the aesthetic industry, she has focused her expertise in skincare and aesthetic procedures. Inspired by the wonderful work of Dr. Nayak, she has followed and admired his contributions for years. Currently pursuing her degree in business, she believes in the importance of providing exceptional patient care alongside top-quality services. With her vast knowledge of aesthetics and commitment to quality, she ensures that every patient journey is nothing short of wonderful, from start to finish.
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.
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!
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.
