THE MAKING of a MILESTONE
Just one year ago, the adored Dusty Franklin Smith, MD, FACS, and Mary Dunlap Wells, MD, FACOG, listened to their gut instincts and took a leap of faith that has resulted in a booming aesthetics practice in downtown Fairhope. With new treatments,sharpened skills and an all-star team, these two busy women tell us all about becoming the masters of their universe as they confront middle age face first.
By Hayley Hill Photos Stevye Photography, StevyePhotography.com Makeup Courtney Matthews Makeup Artistry, Cocokat1978@gmail.com Hair Felisha Allen, Headdress Salon, 251.689.7427
Even top doctors need a checkup from time to time. And hitting the one-year mark since opening Fairhope’s MD Aesthetics of Mobile Bay, founders Dusty Franklin Smith MD, FACS, and Mary Dunlap Wells MD, FACOG, invited us to check in on their mid-life adventure. Hard to believe these two established medical professionals even entertained the idea of adding more to their already full plates, they’ve surpassed their own expectations proving that women entering middle age are just hitting their stride.
In hindsight, their recipe for success included all the right ingredients: a true passion for helping others age gracefully, on-going master-level aesthetic skills, a close connection to the community, a divine spa-style facility, and an A-list team. A competitive arena, this recipe is golden as we’re all learning to value the necessary and unique skillset it requires to turn back time. And, no, not all injections are created equal.
As for their whys? Dr. Smith, an esteemed surgeon for over 15 years, was looking for her next challenge. “I’ve always wanted to start a business from the ground up. Not knowing how it would fit into my career plans, aesthetics became the perfect fit as I’ve aged and started focusing on taking care of myself. I’ve always loved learning new techniques and the ever-evolving aesthetic world allows me to do just that!” she beams.
Dr. Wells, still very active in her role at Fairhope Gynecology and Obstetrics, was driven to answer the aesthetic calling when she turned 50 last year. Dr. Wells shares, “I’ve always seen healthcare as a continuum since our patients have varying needs as they age. Plus, we get one chance at life, and aging is a natural part of it. So, while we’re grateful to get older, we want to do so gracefully and help others to do the same. This not only makes me a better physician, but it also makes me more relatable to my patients,” she tells us.
With the aesthetics practice in full swing, they both share, “This first year has been amazing! It can sometimes be a little hectic juggling a very busy surgical practice, and obstetrical/gynecological practice, but we absolutely love it! This has allowed us to serve our patients in a whole new way. It not only enhances what we can provide, but also fills the creative outlet we both needed. We are so thankful for our loyal customers, friends, and families who have supported us along the way. There have been growing pains, but we have used those to continue to excel. We truly love providing services that make people feel and look beautiful.”
And why take our word for it? The reviews speak for themselves. Examples such as, “Amazing experience with even better results with this practice. “From the front desk to the esthetician, Jodi, and even Dr. Wells, I received concierge treatment. With a busy schedule, it’s hard to make time for myself, they understand this and get you in and out quickly. Kind professionals doing a great job! Thank you!” and, “Grateful and thankful to have found these talented and intelligent women! From my first interaction with Ciara at the front desk, to facials with Jodi and Avery, and Botox with Dr. Dusty—I always feel I am in the best hands. Thankful to have this level of professionalism and knowledge in our area,” speak volumes.
As for the treatments offered: “Our favorite treatments include using filler for cheek and lip augmentation. When done in a subtle fashion, this treatment can truly give the patient a natural enhancement to redefine the loss of definition that occurs with aging. Our goal is not to make someone look drastically different, but to help patients look like they did in their younger years. We strive to assist our patients to see a more youthful appearance and feel confident in the aging process,” the doctors share in tandem.
Adding to their ever-growing skillset and menu of service options, they share, “Recent additions include the Morpheus 8 which provides multi-modal treatment options using radio-frequency microneedling. Considered a revolutionary method of skin tightening, it reinforces the underlying skin structure. Using what can best be described as a heated wand that is rubbed along the face to lift, tighten, and contour skin while promoting collagen production, Forma facials are also a big hit with both men and women. And when it comes to unwanted hair removal, Diolaze laser treatments are the most modern and known for being gentle, safe, and effective. The fastest in terms of producing results, The Lumecca IPL vascular treatments for pigmentation issues, thread veins, sun damage, and even vascular lesions can’t be beat. This is the most aggressive, non-surgical anti-aging treatment available. We have also added the Evolve, which works to tighten skin, build muscle, and burn adipose cells. We keep up-to-date with the newest cutting-edge technologies and training opportunities to provide the best aesthetic treatment plans.”
As all women know, it certainly takes a village. Especially when you consider both doctors are also mothers and wives. “We absolutely have the best team supporting both of us and the practice! When you walk in our front doors, you are greeted by our office manager, Tracy Ong, and Ciara Saunders who create the most welcoming and relaxing environment. We know it can be intimidating just to make an aesthetic appointment and she is extremely knowledgeable and makes sure everyone has a flawless appointment! Our four aestheticians: Jody Harris, Avery Friedman, Charleigh McMahon, and Chasen Lipscomb Minnifield are not only brilliant and talented, but they can provide multiple treatment options from laser hair removal to our signature facials. We believe in a team approach and strive to not only give top notch aesthetic treatments, but to create a wonderful work-family environment.”
So, this magical duo, who look better than ever by the way, have not only succeeded in reaching one year in business, but they’ve also built a beautiful practice where the staff and clients are not just satisfied, they’re thrilled to be there. No easy feat, a spectacular celebration is in the works. Set for April 6th, they are rolling out the discounts and special packages to show their client appreciation. Be sure to follow on social media and join the celebration as we toast to the success of the brave women.
Knowing high praises are certainly helpful for a small city business, but perhaps their humble natures are a factor in their success, too. “Our biggest compliment is having new clients book service appointments after seeing the results of our existing patients. We treat all ages and genders providing individualized treatment plans leading to exceptional results. It is so rewarding to help guide individuals to reach their skin care goals,” they conclude. Without a doubt that we’ll be celebrating their success well into the future, cheers to the doctors and team that help us all put our best face forward.
MD Aesthetics of Mobile Bay | 106 North Bancroft Street Fairhope, 36532
251.281.8776 | MDAestheticsMobileBay.com
