Advertise on podcast: Plastic Surgery Decoded

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 or enhancing cosmetic appearance. What role does the underlying bone structure play in these transformations? Meet Dr. Natalie Plana, a craniofacial plastic surgeon known for her expertise, creativity, and dedication to her patients. What inspires someone to specialize in such a challenging and rewarding subspecialty? In this episode, Dr. Plana breaks down the key ideas and explains how craniofacial surgery can be so impactful. Are you ready to learn what makes this field so fascinating?

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 without recreating a breast, and future trends on the horizon. Listen in for his insights!

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 this episode we hear about the current state of implants, as well as whether there is still concern about Breast Implant Illness or possible malignancy, from Aesthetic Society president, Dr. Tracy Pfeifer. Listen to find out what you need to know!

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 understanding of the surgeon’s training and experience, the possibility of complications, the need for additional surgeries without local support, and insurance coverage issues. In this episode, we speak with Dr. Daniel Kaufman in Miami, who has experience with medical tourism. He performs specialized procedures for patients who travel for care, and he also assists those who have experienced complications after having surgery in other locations. You’ll want to hear his insights. Tune in!

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 surgeon Dr. Raja Mohan about what facial balancing involves, the procedures it may include, and what outcomes to expect. Listen in for his insights!

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 rejuvenation procedures, including the neck lift, address these concerns. This episode’s discussion features Dr. Nouhan’s interview of renowned plastic surgeon Dr. Malcolm Paul, who provides insights based on his extensive experience with neck rejuvenation techniques.  Be sure to listen in!

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? Plastic surgeon Dr. Joseph Spaniol provides answers, and he also has some wise words both for detection of skin cancer and prevention. Let’s listen in, now...

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 treatments work better for certain areas, and nothing can “do it all.”  What’s the solution? Well, we now know that a comprehensive rejuvenation strategy includes combining treatments as an ideal way to accomplish more. But how to do? And what is safe? In this episode we interview Dr. Chris Surek who has accomplished a remarkable amount in his still growing career, including teaching facial anatomy and surgical techniques to other physicians. He shares his experience about combining procedures and leaves listeners with some great take-home information to utilize, as they consider their own options. Hear what he has to say.

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 to tell us!  She has championed PREhabilitation in her plastic surgery practice, and in our conversation today she reveals some interesting insights about this relatively new concept. Learn about nutrition & adequate protein, and the importance of muscle mass as a reserve to help your body heal. Plus she explains the 3 things you should bring to the hospital if you must stay overnight. Don’t miss out – take a listen!

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, get ready for some colorful stories, as Dr. Thomas Francel in St. Louis joins us in discussion. He’s written a book related to our subject. Listen in as he presents anecdotes and opinions about revisions from his long career as a plastic surgeon. Some may surprise you!

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 valuable insights. He covers the basics of skin care, discusses whether adjustments in routine are necessary with changing seasons, and explores pertinent topics like the differences in skin care for males and females, as well as advice for sensitive skin or skin of color. He also addresses the frequently asked question regarding the effectiveness of topical or oral collagen in enhancing skin quality. This episode is packed with informative content, making it well worth a listen!

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 with some words of wisdom for anyone planning consultation with a plastic surgeon.

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 research on our topic. Not only does he explain the nuances of attractiveness, but he shares some eye-opening thoughts which could be applied to other aspects of our lives, as well. Plus, the importance of possible provider bias (and the reasons for it) are discussed. Dr. Dayan brings a wealth of interesting information, so don’t miss out! Listen in!