The Confidence Doc Plastic Surgery Podcast with Dr. Rukmini (Vinaya) Rednam

In this episode of The Confidence Doc, Dr. Rednam sits down with Dr. Streitmann, a board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon known for his compassionate approach to post-trauma and post-cancer reconstruction.

Together, they dive deep into the emotional and physical recovery process, the artistry behind reconstructive surgery, and the way confidence is restored through healing — not just aesthetically, but emotionally. Dr. Streitmann also shares his perspective on working with burn victims, cancer survivors, and patients reclaiming their identity after major surgery, and how medicine continues to evolve toward empathy, precision, and purpose.

If you've ever wondered how surgery can rebuild both the body and the spirit, this episode is a must-listen.

✅ Follow Dr. Streitmann

Instagram: @drmichaelstreitmann

X: @drstreitmann

🔗 Follow Dr. Rednam: Instagram: @dr.rednam @theconfidencedoc_podcast TikTok: @dr.rednam

📬 Request your consultation here:

Contact Dr. Rukmini Rednam, MD in Houston, TX and The Woodlands: drrukminirednam.com

In this special solo episode, Dr. Rukmini Rednam reflects on the incredible journey that The Confidence Doc podcast has taken so far — and opens up about the new direction for the show.

From redefining what confidence truly means to exploring the intersection of medicine, mindset, and human experience, Dr. Rednam shares her vision for the next chapter: deeper conversations, raw honesty, and a renewed purpose to educate, empower, and inspire.

Whether you've been listening since Season 1 or just discovered the show, this episode will remind you why confidence is more than a look — it's a lifestyle of healing, growth, and self-awareness.

💬 In this episode: 00:00 – Intro: The evolution of The Confidence Doc 03:12 – Why medicine and mindset must coexist 07:40 – Lessons learned from past seasons 11:25 – Behind the scenes: how the show is changing 15:50 – The future of The Confidence Doc 18:30 – A personal note from Dr. Rednam

🎧 Tune in, share your thoughts, and join Dr. Rednam as she redefines what it means to be The Confidence Doc.

🔗 Follow Dr. Rednam: Instagram: @dr.rednam @theconfidencedoc_podcast TikTok: @Dr.Rednam YouTube: The Confidence Doc Podcast

📬 Request your consultation here:

Contact Dr. Rukmini Rednam, MD in Houston, TX and The Woodlands: drrukminirednam.com

In this episode of The Confidence Doc, Dr. Rukmini Rednam sits down with Chris Neal, CEO of MD Hyperbaric, to uncover the real science behind hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) — one of medicine's oldest yet most misunderstood treatments.

They discuss how HBOT works, what conditions it helps treat, and why it's becoming a powerful tool for surgical recovery, wound healing, and inflammation control. From post-op healing to performance and wellness, this conversation breaks down the myths, the data, and the future of oxygen-based medicine.

Whether you're a patient, physician, or just curious about wellness tech, you'll learn how oxygen and pressure can accelerate the body's natural healing process.

🔗 Learn more about MD Hyperbaric: mdhyperbaric.com Follow Dr. Rednam on Instagram: @dr.rednam

💡 Key Points

• What hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) actually does to your body
• FDA-approved vs. off-label uses
• Why oxygen therapy accelerates wound and surgical recovery
• The difference between mild and medical-grade chambers
• Why access to hyperbaric therapy is limited and how that's changing
• How MD Hyperbaric is expanding access across the U.S.

📬 Request your consultation here:

Contact Dr. Rukmini Rednam, MD in Houston, TX and The Woodlands: drrukminirednam.com

In this episode of The Confidence Doc, host Dr. Mavis Rednam, board-certified plastic surgeon in Houston, sits down with Dr. Manuel Chacón, a visionary in modern breast surgery and aesthetic innovation.

Dr. Chacón, based in Costa Rica, shares his advanced approach to breast surgery using 3D design, body proportion analysis, and cutting-edge implant technology to create natural, personalized results for each patient.

Together, they explore the evolution of breast procedures — from submuscular to prepectoral techniques, the impact of new implant generations, and how innovation and artistry are transforming patient outcomes.

🔑 Key Points from this Episode:

• How Dr. Manuel Chacón is transforming breast surgery through 3D planning and design.
• The benefits of the prepectoral (above the muscle) approach versus traditional submuscular placement.
• Understanding how body proportion and natural anatomy guide implant choice and surgical design.
• The evolution of sixth-generation implants and how they improve safety, softness, and biocompatibility.
• Why the future of breast surgery lies in customization, precision, and preserving natural tissue.
• Insights on innovation in Latin America and how global collaboration elevates aesthetic standards.
• The importance of artistry, science, and patient-centered care in modern plastic surgery.

🔹 Follow Dr. Manuel Chacón: Instagram: @dr.manuelchacon

📬 Request your consultation here:

Contact Dr. Rukmini Rednam, MD in Houston, TX and The Woodlands: drrukminirednam.com

In this episode of The Confidence Doc, host Dr. Rukmini Rednam sits down with reproductive endocrinologist Dr. Natalie Crawford to demystify fertility in the modern age. Dr. Crawford — a double board-certified fertility specialist, co-founder of Fora Fertility, host of the As a Woman podcast, and author of The Fertility Formula — explains what being a fertility doctor really means, how lifestyle and misinformation impact reproductive health, and practical steps people can take to optimize their chances of conception. This episode blends clinical insight with real-world compassion so listeners can feel empowered to take control of their reproductive health.

• What a reproductive endocrinologist / fertility specialist does (form vs. function; clinical role).
• How everyday lifestyle factors (nutrition, timing, cycle health) affect fertility.
• Why infertility seems to be rising and where to seek answers.
• How to separate evidence-based advice from online misinformation.
• Practical, early actions people can take to preserve or improve fertility.
• Dr. Crawford's personal journey and why she focuses on education and patient empowerment.
• A preview of her book The Fertility Formula and why education matters.
• Resources for patients: where to look, when to see a specialist, and how social media can both help and mislead.

• Instagram / TikTok: @nataliecrawfordmd
• Website / bio & book info: nataliecrawfordmd.com

📬 Request your consultation here:

Contact Dr. Rukmini Rednam, MD in Houston, TX and The Woodlands: drrukminirednam.com

In this episode of The Confidence Doc, Dr. Rukmini Rednam sits down with Dr. Andrew Elkwood, a double board-certified plastic surgeon and one of the nation's leading experts in nerve reconstruction surgery. Practicing in Red Bank, New Jersey, Dr. Elkwood has dedicated his career to restoring function and relieving chronic pain for patients with some of the most complex nerve injuries—especially in the pelvis, upper extremities, and face.

Together, they discuss what nerve reconstruction really means, how it helps patients suffering from paralysis and chronic pain, and why these procedures are often misunderstood or overlooked in the medical community.

The conversation also dives into Dr. Elkwood's role in founding the Advanced Reconstructive Surgery Alliance (ARSA)—a groundbreaking "privademic" model that brings academic-level innovation into private practice, giving surgeons resources to collaborate, research, and deliver world-class outcomes for patients.

This episode covers:

• What nerve reconstruction is and how it changes lives
• Why pelvic nerve surgery is one of the most unique areas of plastic surgery
• The challenges patients face in finding specialized care
• How insurance companies view innovative procedures—and how surgeons fight for patients
• The story behind ARSA and its mission to merge private practice with academic excellence
• The future of reconstructive surgery and why collaboration matters more than ever

Whether you're a patient, physician, or medtech enthusiast, this episode shines a light on the incredible innovation happening in reconstructive plastic surgery.

🔗 Dr. Andrew Elkwood – Social / Contact Info & Bio

Social / Web Presence:

• Facebook: Dr. Andrew Elkwood, Shrewsbury NJ
• Practice website (The Institute for Advanced Reconstruction / Advanced Reconstructive Surgery Alliance - ARSA) arsahealth.com+1

📬 Request your consultation here:

Contact Dr. Rukmini Rednam, MD in Houston, TX and The Woodlands: drrukminirednam.com

In this first episode of Season 7 of The Confidence Doc, Houston plastic surgeon Dr. Rukmini Rednam sits down with Dr. Danielle DeLuca-Pytell, a board-certified plastic surgeon and practice owner, to talk about the realities of running a modern plastic surgery practice and the lessons learned along the way. Dr. DeLuca-Pytell shares her journey into private practice, what it takes to balance patient care with business leadership, and how her approach to surgery centers on compassion, artistry, and honesty. She opens up about challenges in the industry, from social media pressures to transparency in results, and how she empowers her patients with realistic expectations and confidence. Together, they discuss: ✨ What it means to build and lead your own practice ✨ The importance of mentorship and life experience in medical careers ✨ Navigating social media as a surgeon — the positives and negatives ✨ Why honesty, authenticity, and core values matter in patient care ✨ The future of plastic surgery and where innovation is headed This inspiring conversation highlights the blend of art, science, and leadership that defines today's plastic surgeons — and offers advice for patients, students, and anyone interested in the future of the field. Follow Dr. Danielle DeLuca-Pytell: Instagram: @drdelucapytell

Website: delucapytell.com

📬 Request your consultation here:

Contact Dr. Rukmini Rednam, MD in Houston, TX and The Woodlands: drrukminirednam.com

In this inspiring episode of The Confidence Doc, Dr. Rednam sits down with Dr. Millicent Rovelo, a double board-certified plastic surgeon, to talk about the real impact of plastic surgery on confidence, identity, and representation.

Dr. Rovelo shares her unique journey into medicine, the challenges she faced as a woman of color in the surgical field, and why diversity and mentorship are so critical in plastic surgery. Together, they discuss how procedures like facelifts, breast surgeries, and body contouring can be transformative—not just physically, but emotionally.

This episode isn't just about surgery—it's about empowerment, resilience, and creating a future where more patients see themselves represented in their doctors.

✨ Whether you're considering surgery or simply curious about the evolving world of plastic surgery, this is a must-listen conversation.

Follow Dr. Rovelo:

• Instagram: @roveloplasticsurgery
• Podcast: @beverlyhillsplasticsurgerypod
• Web: www.roveloplasticsurgery.com

📬 Request your consultation here:

Contact Dr. Rukmini Rednam, MD in Houston, TX and The Woodlands: drrukminirednam.com

In this episode of The Confidence Doc, host Dr. Rukmini Rednam welcomes Dr. Elizabeth Malphrus, a plastic surgery resident, for a candid conversation about the journey to becoming a plastic surgeon. Dr. Malphrus shares what drew her to plastic surgery, the lessons she's learned in residency, and the unique challenges that come with balancing the technical demands of the operating room with the deeply personal impact these surgeries have on patients' lives. From cancer reconstruction to aesthetic transformations, she reflects on the rewarding moments that confirm her calling to the specialty. Together, Dr. Rednam and Dr. Malphrus discuss the importance of mentorship, perseverance, and passion in pursuing a surgical career—offering insight and encouragement for students, residents, and anyone curious about the path to becoming a plastic surgeon. ✨ This episode is an inspiring behind-the-scenes look at the next generation of surgeons shaping the future of plastic surgery.

Takeaways

• Being a chief resident is a significant responsibility and opportunity.
• The journey to becoming a plastic surgeon can be non-traditional.
• Social media plays a crucial role in educating patients and building a brand.
• Residency training has improved in terms of work-life balance and support.
• Board certification is a rigorous process that ensures high standards in patient care.
• The presence of more women in surgery is positively impacting the field.
• Mentorship and collaboration are vital in surgical practice.
• The transition from residency to practice can be daunting but rewarding.
• Continued education and adaptation are essential in the medical field.
• Building a personal brand through social media can enhance patient trust.

⭐️ Follow Dr. Malphrus

• Instagram: @dr.malphrus
• Tiktok: @dr.malphrus
• Newsletter: Cut and Tell

📬 Request your consultation here:

Contact Dr. Rukmini Rednam, MD in Houston, TX and The Woodlands: drrukminirednam.com

In this episode of The Confidence Doc, Dr. Rukmini Rednam sits down with Dr. Anne Peled—world-renowned plastic and reconstructive surgeon, breast surgical oncologist, and breast cancer survivor—whose groundbreaking work is changing the future of breast reconstruction. One of the very few U.S. surgeons fully trained in both oncologic and reconstructive breast surgery, Dr. Peled brings a uniquely comprehensive perspective to patient care.

The conversation covers her personal journey from breast cancer diagnosis to pioneering sensation-preserving mastectomy, a technique that allows patients to maintain breast sensation after surgery. Dr. Peled shares why preserving sensation matters, how coordinated care transforms outcomes, and the challenges of introducing innovative surgical techniques into the medical community.

This episode also dives into:

• The real benefits and myths of breast conservation surgery
• Why patient goals—not just medical tradition—should guide surgical decisions
• Advances in neurotization and preserving nipple sensation
• How aesthetics, function, and cancer care can coexist
• The future of less invasive, high-impact reconstructive techniques

Whether you're a patient, surgeon, or advocate for women's health, this episode offers inspiring insight into how empathy, innovation, and expertise can redefine survivorship.

Follow Dr. Anne Peled: 📸 Instagram: @drannepeled 🌐 Website: annepeledmd.com 🔗 LinkedIn: Dr. Anne Peled

📬 Request your consultation here:

Contact Dr. Rukmini Rednam, MD in Houston, TX and The Woodlands: drrukminirednam.com