Dr Brian Monaisa proves that beauty isn’t skin deep. As a trusted plastic and reconstructive surgeon, in his scalpel he restores dreams and instil confidence in his clients with perfect results. He shares with Lesley Mofokeng how his Marang Aesthetics business has remained at the top.
1.How has your entrepreneurship journey been so far?
My entrepreneurship journey has been both challenging and deeply fulfilling. It started with a vision to merge medical excellence with beauty and wellness through Marang Aesthetics. Over the years, I’ve grown not only as a doctor but also as a business leader. Every setback became a stepping stone, and every win reinforced my purpose.
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2.What has been the toughest business lesson you learnt?
It has been learning to delegate effectively and trusting the process. As a perfectionist, I initially struggled with letting go of control. But I realised that building a strong, capable team is essential for sustainable growth. It’s a humbling but necessary part of leadership. The key to business success is hiring the right people.
- What business principles do you live by?
Integrity, consistency, and patient-centred care are at the core of everything I do. I believe in doing things the right way, even when no one is watching. Long-term success is built on trust, and that only comes from delivering quality and standing by your values.
- How has the business of beauty and surgery evolved since you started and how has that impacted what you do?
The industry has seen a huge shift towards minimally invasive treatments and natural looking results. Patients are more informed and are seeking tailored, holistic solutions. This has challenged us to constantly innovate and invest in the latest technology and training. It’s pushed me to evolve from being just a surgeon to a trusted advisor in aesthetic wellness. My business has two facets, the surgeon and the aesthetics. Surgically, people trust in my product. The challenge is to turn those clients into aesthetics customers. All businesses face threats and the current one to aesthetics is the low barrier to entry. The key to success is keeping your price points because without profit, you are sunk. This applies more to the aesthetics entrepreneur than the girl who was blessed with an IV drip spot. While she can afford to cut prices, it’s important to realise that cannibalising the industry profits no one. The only response is to insist on your standards and USP, and charge accordingly. Dr Sandi Dyonase is a good example of an entrepreneur in the purely aesthetics (business) space, who has thrived despite the proliferation of aesthetics spots.
- What are the 3 things every entrepreneur needs to survive business?
Resilience, adaptability, and a clear vision. Business is never a straight line—there are highs and lows, and you need the mental strength to navigate both. Being flexible in approach but firm in purpose has helped me weather storms and stay the course.
- How has your faith influenced your decision making?
My faith has always been my anchor. It helps me stay grounded and approach decisions with a sense of purpose and clarity. In uncertain moments, it provides the peace and confidence I need to move forward. It reminds me that this journey is bigger than myself. I can’t talk about faith without mentioning my mom, the original prayer warrior.
- What have been the challenges and opportunities of running Marang Aesthetics?
Balancing the clinical side with business operations has been one of the biggest challenges. But it’s also created opportunities to build a unique, patient-first experience that sets us apart. Marang Aesthetics pioneered virtual and digital consultations as a direct response to COVID-19. Our business actually grew when the world needed to be contact less. We’ve evolved that into a model that allows us to genuinely build trust and reliability, while taking advantage of technology. Growing a brand that reflects my values has been incredibly rewarding. It’s not just about aesthetics—it’s about empowering people.
- What has been your lowest point in business and your highest?
My lowest point was during the early days when I doubted if I could balance surgery and entrepreneurship. But I found strength in those moments and redefined my path. My highest has been seeing Marang Aesthetics become a trusted name and watching our impact grow beyond just cosmetic change to personal transformation.
- What’s the most precious accolade/recognition/award you have received and why?
While awards are meaningful, the most precious recognition comes from my patients’ gratitude and trust. When someone tells me their confidence has been restored, that’s the ultimate reward. That human connection and impact are what keep me going. It’s a reminder of why I chose this path. But yes, I believe in hard work and competition, and I did win a couple of awards during my registrar training time. The point is, you’re only as good as your next game.
- What’s your projection for the future?
I see Marang Aesthetics expanding its footprint across Africa, becoming a centre of excellence for aesthetic medicine. Personally, I aim to mentor the next generation of doctors and entrepreneurs. We’re investing in research, technology, and training to stay ahead of global trends. The goal is to keep evolving while staying true to our core values.
