Future Leaders in Medicine: Celebrating Innovation and Collaboration at the Rome Conference

From September 10 to 12, 2025, Rome hosted the Leaders of the Future conference, bringing together 20 physicians from around the globe, including Dr. Kato Seiko from Azabu Beauty Clinic in Tokyo. This event provided a platform for medical professionals to share their experiences and insights on innovative practices in aesthetic medicine. Among the notable speakers was Dr. Jean Carruthers, renowned for her pioneering work in the use of botulinum toxin type A in cosmetic procedures. Her contributions have significantly impacted the field of aesthetic medicine worldwide.

About Leaders of the Future

Initiated in 2019 by AbbVie Inc. (formerly Allergan Japan), Leaders of the Future aims to groom emerging leaders in beauty medicine. The project selects representative physicians from various countries to undergo a rigorous four-year training program, culminating in a graduate certification. While the program concluded in 2024, a group of 26 proactive physicians chose to continue fostering knowledge-sharing, leading to the gathering of 20 doctors at this recent event.

Kato Seiko's Presentations

During the conference, Dr. Kato presented two lectures, the first titled Asian Beauty – Are Asians All the Same?. She highlighted how global standards of beauty have evolved, challenging the notion that Western beauty was once the sole representation. Dr. Kato utilized case studies to showcase the diverse interpretations of beauty from an Asian perspective. Her second presentation, Circles Under the Eyes, focused on non-surgical techniques for treating under-eye bags, a subject in which she excels. Contrary to traditional methods, which often involve surgery, Dr. Kato advocated for injection techniques using hyaluronic acid or collagen, offering a less invasive approach that received enthusiastic feedback from her international colleagues.

Comments from Dr. Kato Seiko

Dr. Kato expressed her initial hesitations about participating in this groundbreaking project, feeling uncertain about her place among the future leaders. Despite a member reduction from 46 to 26 throughout the program, she noted that the bonds formed among the remaining participants were incredibly strong. Sharing personal stories and challenges deepened their connection, transforming their relationships into familial ties. Dr. Kato specifically acknowledged the profound influence of Dr. Carruthers, expressing gratitude for her role in popularizing Botox in cosmetic medicine and emphasizing that without her, the aesthetic use of Botox might not exist as we know it today.

Reflecting on her journey from starting the Azabu Beauty Clinic to presenting at an international conference, Dr. Kato regarded this experience as a pivotal moment in her professional life. She stated, “This project transcended all boundaries, emphasizing the significance of our connections. I return home determined to contribute to the advancement of global aesthetic medicine.”

Azabu Beauty Clinic and Dr. Kato's Expertise

As the director of Azabu Beauty Clinic, Dr. Kato leads an institution prioritizing non-invasive aesthetic procedures, particularly injection treatments. After graduating from the University of Tokyo in 1997 and gaining 10 years of experience in orthopedic surgery, she transitioned into aesthetic medicine, founding her clinic in 2008. With over 17 years of expertise in injection techniques, Dr. Kato is recognized for her impressive skills and frequently invited to conduct workshops on minimally invasive cosmetic treatments.

In her role as a medical advisor for Allergan, she trains physicians across Japan and worldwide, with a commitment to elevating aesthetic medicine practices. Dr. Kato holds memberships in several prestigious medical organizations, emphasizing the importance of continuous learning and knowledge-sharing in her field.

Conclusion

The Leaders of the Future conference exemplifies the collaboration and dedication within the aesthetic medical community, bringing together diverse perspectives and innovative practices that shape the future of beauty medicine. As Dr. Kato and her colleagues continue to push boundaries, the evolution of aesthetic standards promises to create a more inclusive understanding of beauty worldwide.