Plastic Surgery Decoded

Scars!  No one wants them! But they are an inevitable part of the healing process. Most scars settle down over time, but what about those that change color, thicken, or become painful and itchy? They can be unsightly, and a source of insecurity.  What can be done to help?

In this episode we welcome Dr. Andrew Vardanian at UCLA to explain some treatment options for problematic scars, and he gives his philosophy on general care of normal scars, as well.  Listen to what he has to say!

Imagine what it’s like not to be able to move part of your face!  (...meaning more than just a crooked smile.)  Our facial expressions are our calling-card to the world, whether you are a famous celebrity, or an everyday person. Join the conversation with Dr. Babak Azizzadeh as he enlightens about amazing ways to help this devastating problem, and as he relates some heartwarming success stories.  Plus, you’ll hear about his favorite media appearance! Listen to the episode.

Drains for surgery?  What does that mean?  What do they look like, and why would you need them?   Must you always have them? And what’s a seroma, anyway?

Find answers to these questions and more, during our conversation with Dr. Kalila Steen, as she explains all you need to know in a very understandable way.

The eyelids are one of the first areas of the face to show age, whether male or female. Some people may want to treat their eyelid concerns, whether for cosmetic reasons, or more functional reasons...think droopy eyelids obstructing vision. So, it is nice to know the rejuvenation options. Does it always require surgery? Either way, what’s involved?

Today we have Dr. Jon Rast to share his knowledge about this popular subject. Take a listen to what he has to say...

Episode 71 about Flap-based options in Breast Reconstruction is Part 2 of our mini-series. What are flaps, anyway? Previous episode 70 discussed Implant reconstructions, and again you can refer back to Episode 21 for an overview of all of Breast Reconstruction.  But today we have the pioneer of the DIEP flap, Dr. Robert Allen, who is Clinical Professor of Plastic Surgery at LSU, among other positions, and practices in New Orleans, Charleston, and New York City. He shares his extensive experience in using one’s own body tissues to make a new breast after cancer.  Listen to his explanation of current options, and he has a couple of great patient stories too!

What’s the importance of a breast? If you or anyone you know has gone through cancer, you realize Breast Reconstruction restores much more than just a body part. In this first of a 2-part series, we discuss implant-based reconstruction, and the essential information you want to know. We have a great conversation on this podcast episode with the engaging Dr. Brian Thornton, who has devoted a large portion of his successful career to implant-based breast reconstruction. Benefit not only from his experience and knowledge about these transformative procedures, but also about the current standards of care for nipple-sparing mastectomies, pain-management, and aftercare. Here we go!

Hmmm, what is it about our necks that can make us so self-conscious sometimes?  For those who are intrigued, there are some things that can be done to rejuvenate its appearance.  Listening to this episode will introduce you to Dr. Jason Roostaeian, who has a well-thought out approach to treatment decisions. He shares his opinions about what “works”, and what doesn’t. Tune in!

Is it more acceptable now to undergo cosmetic procedures for the simple goals of feeling better about yourself, and looking better to others?  What’s that all about? Plastic surgeon Dr. Michele Shermak shares her thoughts on this topic, and as you’ll hear, she has a very relatable approach to her current and future patients. Take a listen to the episode...

Listen in! The accomplished Dr. R. Barrett Noone weaves the fascinating tale of the progress, the triumphs, and even the missteps of the specialty of Plastic Surgery, in his new book “From Trenches to Transplants: Changing Lives with Plastic Surgery”. And, he highlights all of this with some surprising and heartwarming patient stories along the way. Settle into a comfy spot for this one!

You may have been curious about thigh & body lifts -- but what can they do? What’s great about them, and what are the trade-offs? Who would be a good candidate?

We’ve touched on the subject in earlier Episode 15 about Body Contouring, but in this current episode, Dr. Melinda Haws, the future president of The Aesthetic Society, has all the answers we need. She explains things in a comfortable, straightforward way, with a dose of humor thrown in here and there, as well!

Check it out...