Plastic Surgery Decoded

Injectables now encompass more than original Botox and filler, with new treatments for the face and body currently available. Episode 11 of this podcast has covered the basics, but rapid advancements are changing options. Choosing the right treatment matters! In this Episode 115, Dr. Sachin Shridharani discusses the latest trends and technology. He sheds light on which products work best for speci...

Artificial intelligence (AI)  is exerting a profound influence on the domain of plastic surgery, shaping experiences for both patients and practitioners alike. It’s now an omnipresent force across a multitude of sectors, so of course, plastic surgery, too! Carefully discerning when AI produces substantial benefits and when it may introduce unforeseen complexities is important. How, then, can...

Craniofacial surgery is a branch of plastic surgery that affects far more people than just those born with facial or skull abnormalities. Have you ever wondered how surgeons restore facial features after an accident or help someone achieve a more youthful appearance? Craniofacial surgery is a highly technical field, but its concepts are relevant to many—whether it's restoring basic facial function...

Rhinoplasty is a common plastic surgery procedure but often misunderstood. What are three important facts about nose surgery, and what should you expect? Dr. Jeff Markey joins us to share his expert perspective on this procedure. Listen to the episode!

Breast reconstruction after cancer can do wonders to improve physical and emotional well-being. New techniques and options, including robotic surgery and biologics, are emerging, as well. What’s possible, and how do we make best choices? In this episode, Dr. Scott Hollenbeck reviews current methods, insurance coverage, nipple-sparing mastectomies, nipple reconstruction, recontouring the chest with...

In recent years, advancements in implant technology have prioritized patient safety and comfort. Manufacturers have introduced more cohesive silicone gels, improved shell designs, and enhanced surface textures to minimize complications. These innovations aim to provide more natural-looking results and ensure long-term durability while addressing previous concerns associated with older implants. In...

The 3 most common problems seen by plastic/hand surgeons are carpal tunnel syndrome, trigger finger, and ganglion cysts. But what are the best treatments? And what is WALANT surgery? Listen to the conversation as plastic and hand surgery specialist Dr. Charles Christopher Jehle discusses with Dr. Nouhan the leading treatments and innovative procedures.

Many US residents have traveled to different locations to receive plastic surgery. Motivations for this include lower costs, privacy considerations, or access to surgeons who are not locally available. But, it’s important to carefully review all aspects of pursuing procedures elsewhere and consider potential challenges. These may include whether the selected procedure is appropriate, thorough unde...

What is Facial Balancing? A trending term that often refers to nonsurgical treatments like injectables, though it's long been a bigger-scale concept in plastic surgery. Rather than focusing on a single feature, facial balancing considers how each area fits into overall facial harmony—sometimes addressing other areas can create a more balanced appearance. In this episode, we discuss with plastic su...

Neck aesthetic treatments are less commonly discussed compared to those for other parts of the body. However, the neck can influence perceptions of age when viewed by an observer. Features such as excess fullness or a loss of angular definition in the neck may result from genetic factors as well as aging, but either way, the appearance of the neck may not truly align with how a person feels. Neck...

Did you know that skin is the largest organ in the body?  Too often we may take it for granted, but skin cancer can be devastating when it goes unnoticed. Which raises a few questions, like what factors increase the risk of skin cancer? And, which skin cancers are the worst? If a big defect is left after surgery, how can an area like a nose, lip, or eyelid be reconstructed? What about scar? P...

Most of us notice changes in our face over time, and at some point may be mistaken by others as looking tired, less youthful, or even depressed. So it’s NOT a matter of aging gracefully. It’s a matter of not looking like we really feel! The therapeutic options to rejuvenate the face, to reconnect the person on the inside with their appearance on the outside, seem endless these days. Yet different...

You know about rehabilitation after a surgery. But what about PREhabilitation, or PREhab? Well, that concept is getting a lot of attention lately. It refers to pre-emptive conditioning, both mentally and physically, BEFORE a surgery, in hopes of reducing the recovery-downtime afterwards, and reducing risk of complications. How does it work, and what’s involved?  Dr. Rebecca Knackstedt is here...

Many are intrigued by the idea of changing their appearance through injections or surgery, yet fear the possibility of “Bad” plastic surgery.  But what does good plastic surgery or bad plastic surgery really mean?  Does it always have to do with the surgeon?  Or are there “patient” factors that play a part, as well? And what are some ways to help avoid an undesired outcome? Well, ge...

Skin care is an essential aspect of self-care and has gained significant attention recently. Increasingly, individuals wish to present their best appearance. However, with the abundance of products and advice available, it can be challenging to determine the appropriate steps to achieve and sustain a healthy glow. In this episode, we engage with facial plastic surgeon Dr. Amir Karam, who provides...

In the 100th episode of Plastic Surgery Decoded, we speak with plastic surgeon and educator Dr. Robert Grant about the state of Plastic Surgery now, and where it’s headed. His career has spanned decades, so he’s seen it all!  And, he’s got some strong opinions to share from his perspective about what’s been successful in this field, and what could improve. He finishes our great conversation w...

Every day, we subconsciously register traits of beauty and attractiveness in others. But what are those? And how might they differ from culture to culture? These differences in aesthetics reveal a rich tapestry of values and traditions that shape how beauty is perceived across the globe. A fascinating conversation takes place in this episode with guest Dr. Steven Dayan, who has done extensive rese...

What social media myths need to be debunked about nutrition around the time of surgery?  You might be surprised that the best and worst foods may not be what you thought! It’s remarkable how much of an impact proper perioperative nutrition can have on the outcome of a procedure. The truth is, it can have significant influence on how you feel, and on your results. In this episode we hear from...

More and more people of All genders are seeking improvement for thinning hair or areas of complete hair loss. Whether from genetic tendencies, hormonal changes, medical conditions, or environmental factors, hair loss can be a major source of concern, and luckily a lot more can be done these days. Yes! The treatment options have become more specific and more successful. In this episode, we learn al...

Let's clear up the confusion about when to use Botox, Filler, or Fat for facial rejuvenation! Dr. Bonnie Baldwin is a plastic surgeon in Texas with extensive experience getting the best results out of each of these. In our discussion, she lays out what each type of injectable is designed for, and how to use it best.  Sometimes a combination can actually produce the nicest results. Listen, and...

Rarely do we realize the significant impact (positive or negative) that the overall physical, mental, and emotional health of a patient can have on the success of their procedure. Overlooked factors may also include a person’s habits, their stressors, nutritional status, and even spiritual concerns. Enter Dr. Jerry Chidester. He is one of a growing number of plastic surgeons embracing a holistic a...

When there is a long-standing mismatch between a person’s gender identity and their gender assigned at birth, it can be a source of great distress, impacting virtually all facets of one’s life.  Using his vast knowledge and experience, Chicago plastic surgeon Dr. Loren Schechter enlightens listeners about the spectrum of gender-affirming procedures that are possible, ranging from the smallest...

Exosomes…have you heard of them?  If not, I’m sure you will soon. They are indeed the buzzword in the plastic surgery and skin rejuvenation worlds. They’re touted to be able to help reverse the signs of skin aging, and to enhance recovery from treatments, as well. Sounds wonderful, right? But what’s the story on these? Is it hype? Or is there a true effect here?  In this episode, we...

Menopause is not just a reproductive phenomenon! The perimenopausal years set off a cascade of changes that can affect a woman’s appearance from body contour to skin quality.  Many women at this stage are surprised and frustrated to find that the daily routines they have to keep in shape and to manage their skin, no longer work very well. So what can be done? Enter Dr. Ashley Amalfi and Dr. S...

Academic medical centers make up only a small percentage of all medical facilities, but what IS an academic institution?  And how is it different from standard community hospitals and surgery centers?  Are there advantages to them?   Drawbacks? And would a resident be involved in your surgery?  What IS a resident, anyway?  In this episode your curiosity will be satisf...