Richard Neel M.D.

Dr. Richard Neel is a highly accomplished physician, military veteran, and healthcare leader whose distinguished career spans decades of service in medicine, public health, and military leadership. Originally from Lake Jackson, Texas, Dr. Neel earned his medical degree from the University of Texas Health Science Center and later obtained a Master of Public Health (MPH) from Harvard University. He completed his residency in Aerospace Medicine and fellowship training in Occupational Medicine, ultimately becoming board-certified in Aerospace Medicine with additional expertise in emergency medicine, urgent care, family medicine, and occupational medicine.

Throughout his remarkable career, Dr. Neel served more than 20 years in the United States Air Force, retiring with the rank of Colonel. As a Chief Flight Surgeon, he provided medical leadership for military personnel around the world, including ambassadors, senior government officials, and military leaders throughout Europe. His service included combat deployments to the Middle East and Bosnia, leadership of emergency response teams for NASA Space Shuttle landing sites, and directing Air Force emergency operations at the Pentagon on September 11, 2001. His distinguished military career earned numerous honors, including the Air Medal for assisting in the rescue of 32 individuals during a North Atlantic hurricane.

Following his military service, Dr. Neel continued his commitment to patient care and leadership through roles in hyperbaric medicine, wound care, occupational medicine, and urgent care. His extensive experience, clinical expertise, and dedication to excellence have made him a respected leader and mentor throughout the healthcare community.

Beyond his impressive credentials, Dr. Neel is known for his integrity, compassion, and commitment to helping others. He believes exceptional healthcare begins with trust, education, and meaningful relationships between providers and patients. His approach to medicine has always been guided by service, respect, and a genuine desire to improve the lives of those he serves.

Dr. Neel and Lynn Hollis first worked together many years ago in urgent care, developing a lasting professional relationship built on mutual respect and shared values. As Medical Director of Empower Aesthetics, he is proud to support a team that prioritizes patient safety, ethical care, and women’s empowerment while fostering a culture rooted in compassion, confidence, and genuine human connection.

Dr. Neel is honored to be part of the Empower Aesthetics family and remains committed to helping guide the organization’s mission of empowering individuals to look, feel, and live their very best.