5 Codes Podcast

In this episode, I sit down with my wife, Aubree, for a candid and fun conversation answering your most requested questions. We share the story of how we met, what we've learned through marriage and parenthood, our perspectives on health, beauty, and family life, and the daily habits that help keep us connected and growing together. From relationship advice and parenting lessons to rapid-fire...

In this episode, I explore one of the most important and often overlooked factors in aesthetic surgery: the relationship between surgeon and patient. Through a personal story about a patient I initially declined to operate on, I break down how expectations, recovery readiness, trust, communication, and long-term alignment can ultimately determine the success of a facial rejuvenation journey. CONNE...

In this episode, I explore a little-known biological pathway that may have a major impact on surgical recovery: DAMPs, or damage-associated molecular patterns. These molecular signals help the body recognize injury and initiate healing, but they also influence inflammation, nervous system stress, recovery timelines, and overall resilience after surgery. We dive into how surgical technique, tissue...

In this episode, I explore a question that sits at the heart of aesthetic medicine: what makes someone look like themselves? Using a fascinating patient case involving a former model and actress, I break down why some features commonly labeled as "flaws" are actually defining characteristics that create identity, attractiveness, and recognition. We dive into facial aging, eye aesthetics,...

In this episode, Leah Streich, PA - Dr. Chesnut’s personal medical provider - breaks down the hidden drivers behind fatigue, hormone imbalance, poor recovery, metabolic dysfunction, and why so many people still struggle despite “normal” lab work. We explore GLP-1 medications, hormones, birth control, toxin exposure, advanced blood testing, genetics, methylation, supplementation, blood pressure, an...

In this episode, I explore the hidden psychology that can unfold around major decisions, especially when identity, appearance, and social dynamics collide. Using a real patient story, I break down the cognitive biases that shape how people justify choices, project insecurities, and subtly influence those around them during vulnerable moments. We dive into cognitive dissonance, choice-supportive bi...

What if surgery didn’t have to come at the cost of your brain, recovery, or long-term performance? In this episode, we break down an anesthesia and pain management protocol designed to protect neurocognition, minimize risk, and optimize recovery - without relying on opioids, benzodiazepines, or routine general anesthesia. You’ll learn how a more intentional, physiology-first approach can improve o...

In this episode, I share a powerful case from the operating room that highlights how chronic stress, trauma, and elevated cortisol can rapidly accelerate facial aging. I break down the physiology behind stress hormones, metabolic health, tissue quality, and why your face often reflects what’s happening internally long before labs do. You’ll learn why surgery alone isn’t always the answer, the impo...

In this episode, Dr. Ryan Kelm, Harvard-trained laser specialist and cosmetic surgeon, breaks down what actually works (and what doesn’t) when it comes to devices, longevity science, and modern facial rejuvenation. We explore cellular senescence, regenerative approaches like fat transfer, and how surgical thinking is evolving to integrate technology without compromising outcomes. If you want a cle...

In this episode, I break down what I’m actually seeing in the operating room when patients have had prior thread lifts. From persistent foreign material and linear fibrosis to biofilm-related inflammation that can flare after surgery. I explain why threads often fail to deliver meaningful lift, how they can complicate future procedures, and the long-term tissue changes they may leave behind. You’l...

In this episode, I break down the science of facial fat transfer, what it actually is, and how it differs from dermal fillers when it comes to restoring volume, structure, and long-term facial health. I explain who is (and isn’t) a good candidate, the regenerative role of fat in aging tissues, and how fat grafting works at the cellular level. You’ll also learn the most common misconceptions and mi...

In this episode, I address the real future of facelifting and break down one of the most misunderstood areas in aesthetic surgery: the buccal fat pad. I explain why simply tightening skin or relying on outdated techniques fails to correct the deeper structural descent of the face, and how modern deep plane approaches reposition muscle and fat for more natural, durable results. You’ll learn what ac...

In this episode, I’m joined by Chris Duffin to break down what it really means to become a “boardroom athlete” - building strength, resilience, and longevity without sacrificing performance in business or life. We dive into the science of BFR training, anabolic signaling, and how trauma - both physical and psychological - shapes adaptation and recovery. We also unpack foot health, functional stren...

Facial plastic surgery training is often misunderstood and board certification can add even more confusion. In this episode, Dr. Chesnut walks through his exact training pathway, explaining how he became a facial plastic surgeon and why he is not board certified in plastic surgery. Learn the key differences in training routes, what credentials actually mean, and how to evaluate a provider based on...

In this episode, I break down a real case where a patient took my fully developed surgical plan elsewhere to save money - only to come back needing a complex revision. I explain why execution matters just as much as strategy, how subtle details around symmetry and natural expression can’t simply be “copied,” and why revision surgery is often more invasive, expensive, and limited than getting it ri...

In this episode, I break down the science of photobiomodulation, the difference between red and near-infrared wavelengths, and how light impacts your cells, skin, recovery, sleep, and overall health. You’ll learn how to choose the right device, how to dose it safely, and the most common mistakes people make so you can get real results without wasting time or money.   CONNECT WITH HOST  Website: ht...

In this episode, I share two real cases from the OR - including a striking example of hyaluronic acid filler that migrated from the lower face deep into the muscles of the neck - and explain what it reveals about filler behavior, anatomy, and long-term consequences. I also break down how treatments like neck liposuction, Kybella, and even buccal fat pad removal can miss the true structural drivers...

In this episode, I’m joined by regenerative medicine expert Dr. Christopher Meadows to break down how regenerative therapies are being used in aesthetics, performance, and longevity, and what the science actually supports. We discuss the difference between true regeneration and cosmetic quick fixes, where the field is headed, and how to separate evidence-based treatments from hype. You’ll learn ho...

In this episode, I break down the neuroanatomy of facial perception and explain why so many people say, “I don’t look how I feel.” I walk through the brain regions, neuromodulators, and subconscious cues that shape how we interpret our own faces - and how that creates cognitive dissonance when your external appearance doesn’t reflect your internal vitality. You’ll learn how to think about alignmen...

In this episode, I share a powerful OR story about how childhood body image trauma can shape self-perception for decades - and what plastic surgery can and cannot fix. I break down the psychology behind aesthetic procedures, the evolution of modern facelift techniques, and why restoring a natural look is often more about restraint and precision than dramatic change. You’ll learn how to think about...

Welcome to the 5 Codes Podcast, a show for those who value peak performance in every area of life and are strategically striving for their next level.  This podcast is hosted by Dr. Cameron Chesnut, a double board-certified physician and practicing facial plastic surgeon. His unique practice lives at the intersection of regenerative medicine, metabolic health, and facial plastic surgery.  Dr. Ches...