The La Jolla Cosmetic Surgery Podcast - With San Diego’s Most Loved Plastic Surgeons
Go beyond the surface with insights from the plastic surgery experts at La Jolla Cosmetic Surgery Centre. Dive deep into the latest advancements, patient stories, and the artistry behind cosmetic surgery from a globally recognized practice and 20-time Best of San Diego winner.With your hostess Monique Ramsey, we take you inside LJCSC, the place where dreams become real, featuring San Diego’s most loved plastic surgeons as our cosmetic surgery experts.Johan Brahme, MD, Plastic Surgeon: Practicing at La Jolla Cosmetic Surgery Centre since 2004, Dr. Brahme is a double board certified plastic surgeon with a stellar reputation for his ki...
What’s In (and Out) So Far in 2025
Whether you're curious, planning a procedure, or just love staying in the know, this spring trends episode is full of surprises and a look at what’s shaping the future of plastic surgery.
Assistant producer Hannah joins Monique for a chat about the biggest shifts happening now.
Motiva breast implants are making waves for their ultra-natural feel and safety perks—plus, there’s a $250 rebate backed by Meghan Trainor.
Learn why more 30- and 40-somethings are turning to “prejuvenation,” how BBLs and breast implants are shifting toward softer, natural curves, the top technique for a discreet n...
Life After Labiaplasty: What to Expect
What’s life really like after cosmetic labiaplasty surgery? How do women feel about their results, and what’s the emotional journey like during recovery?
Labiaplasty can be a life-changing boost for both confidence and comfort. San Diego plastic surgeon Dr. Diana Breister shares what the experience is really like, physically and emotionally, including the changes women notice before and after surgery, everyday activities that become easier, and how it can improve daily life.
Learn about the labiaplasty recovery process, how to navigate conversations with your partner during healing, and what to expect when it comes to p...
Motiva Breast Implants Now Available in San Diego
Motiva breast implants are now available at La Jolla Cosmetic Surgery Centre!
San Diego plastic surgeon Dr. Diana Breister explains what makes these breast implants such a game-changer. From the lower risk of capsular contracture and rupture to the cutting-edge science behind their design, there’s a lot to love.
Curious about the difference between Motiva’s SmoothSilk Ergonomix (the “Ergo”) and Round implants? Dr. Breister breaks it down, including how to figure out which one might be the right fit for your body and goals.
Schedule a free consultation to see (and feel) the Motiv...
Facelift Marketing Hype: Fact or Fiction?
Over 1,200 beautifully refreshed faces speak for themselves. With his 30+ years of experience helping people achieve their dream facelift results, San Diego plastic surgeon Dr. Johan Brahme cuts through the marketing hype around mini, SMAS, and deep plane facelifts, explaining who they’re best for and what truly matters when choosing a procedure.
It’s not about the type of facelift—it’s about the surgeon’s skill and artistic eye. It’s about loving your result, no matter how you got there.
Forget the idea that facelifts are only for a certain age. It’s all about skin qua...
Back Fat Busted! Why Workouts Won’t Cut It & What Actually Works
Avoiding two-piece swimsuits or open-back dresses? You’re not alone! It’s a common struggle, and San Diego plastic surgeon Dr. Luke Swistun is here to explain why it’s so hard to get rid of.
No matter how many workouts you do, back fat can be incredibly stubborn—and there’s a scientific reason for that. Dr. Swistun explains why liposuction is usually the most effective solution, how back lipo often turns into 360 lipo, and why incision placement makes all the difference for smooth, natural-looking results.
Thinking about pairing lipo with a fat transfer? Or maybe you’r...
Bye-Bye Stubborn Fat, Hello New Wardrobe: Karen’s GLP-1 Weight Loss Story
When Karen couldn’t shake that last 20 pounds, she considered liposuction. But between the cost and the downtime, it just didn’t feel like the right fit for her busy life. That’s when she decided to give weight loss medication a try.
After surviving breast cancer, Karen struggled to lose weight. At 63, she is actively exploring San Diego, boating, and making the most of life, and she’s thrilled that the skinny shot has her feeling more energized, confident, and ready to move.
Beyond weight loss, Karen discovered some unexpected perks, like fewer alcohol cravings and an o...
The Cosmetic Procedures for Men That No One Will Notice (But Everyone Will See)
Men don’t always talk about plastic surgery, but social media has made it more accepted. San Diego plastic surgeon Dr. Hector Salazar breaks down the history of male cosmetic procedures, the most popular treatments, and how society perceives men who do them.
For facial rejuvenation, Dr. Salazar highlights a high-impact combo for men who want to avoid facelift scars: eyelid surgery and the T-Z Plasty. This technique tightens the central neck (goodbye, turkey gobbler) without a long incision. He also shares tips for a smooth recovery, including how to discreetly cover any signs of surgery.
Fi...
Mini or Full Facelift? How Plastic Surgeons Choose What’s Best for Your Face
A short scar facelift, often called a mini facelift, is perfect for those wanting a subtle, natural refresh without major surgery. But San Diego plastic surgeon Dr. John Smoot prefers to call it a “refresher” rather than a facelift.
Dr. Smoot breaks down the differences between short scar and full facelifts, from techniques and scar placement to recovery and cost.
While a mini facelift can deliver beautiful results for the right candidates, it’s important to have realistic expectations. It won’t provide the same dramatic lift as a full facelift, so choosing a surgeon who understan...
Meet Amber, Plastic Surgery Photographer & Marketing Specialist
Amber, our talented medical photographer, is stepping in front of the camera for a change to introduce herself. She’s the friendly face behind your before-and-after photos and keeps track of your progress if you’re on our weight loss program.
She has a natural way of making you feel comfortable, chatting with you to ease any nerves. She reassures everyone that privacy is a top priority at LJCSC.
Beyond the camera, Amber is also part of our marketing team, bringing her fun and energetic personality to our social media content.
Hear how Amber made...
Are Fillers Over? Plastic Surgeon Explains Growing “Filler Fatigue” Trend
If you’ve noticed that more people are stepping back from fillers, using them sparingly, or even dissolving them altogether, you’re seeing a trend called “filler fatigue.”
After watching IMPACT x Nightline: Facelift: After Fillers? on Hulu, we had to get an expert’s take. San Diego plastic surgeon Dr. Diana Breister Ghosh joins us to break down the filler fatigue trend, why younger people are opting for facelifts, and what happens when you dissolve all your fillers.
Find out:
Do fillers really make everyone look the same?What happens when you lose w...
Stop Believing These Hair Transplant Myths
Losing your hair feels like a ticking clock, making you check the mirror constantly. Fears about hair transplant surgery might hold you back from taking action, but San Diego plastic surgeon Dr. Hector Salazar is here with the truth.
He explains when it’s actually time to worry and how he creates a natural-looking hairline with modern hair transplant techniques. Using FUE technology, Dr. Salazar precisely removes individual follicles for seamless, natural results, leaving outdated strip methods behind.
Find out:
Options to try before committing to a hair transplantWhat to expect on yo...
How Amie Got The Body Of Her 20’s Back (At 40-Something)
A poolside photo of Amie’s backside from a trip to Mexico forced her to ask, “Where did my body go?”
Then realizing how difficult it is to get rid of back fat once you’re over 40, she turned to San Diego plastic surgeon Dr. Luke Swistun who recommended 360 lipo to contour her back, sides, and abdomen, paired with Renuvion to tighten her skin.
Amie gives her tips for anyone considering 360 lipo, from finding the right surgeon to maintaining your results afterward. She shares how she prepared for recovery (including her “a friend a day” strategy) and how she s...
What Other Plastic Surgeons Won’t Tell You About 360 Lipo
360 lipo is a technique that targets the sides, front, and back for the most cinched waistline possible. But what makes plastic surgeon Dr. Luke Swistun’s transformations so incredible? It’s all about the difference between two positions and three.
The typical approach to this liposuction technique usually involves just two position changes: starting on your front and then switching to your back, but Dr. Swistun swears by a three-position, side-side-back approach which gives better access to the waist, allowing for precise, artful body sculpting that leaves traditional two-position liposuction in the dust.
Find out:
Life After Body Lift: What to Expect
Imagine finally seeing the results of your weight loss journey without extra skin. Body lift surgery isn’t just about removing extra skin, it’s about finally seeing the finish line.
San Diego plastic surgeon Dr. Johan Brahme explains how body lift surgery changes lives and shares emotional stories of real patients who finally feel at home in their skin.
Find out:
The areas most often in need of a lift after weight lossWhat procedures are typically involved to reshape your bodyWhy multiple surgeries might be needed and how to time themHow long you need to m...
What Really Happens to Your Breasts After Implant Removal
Here’s the answer to the question every woman considering implant removal surgery asks: “What will my breasts look like after I remove my implants?”
Achieving a beautiful shape after saying goodbye to implant volume takes a skilled surgeon. San Diego plastic surgeon Dr. Luke Swistun explains everything you need to know about breast auto-augmentation, a technique that restores breast shape and volume using your own natural tissue.
For most women (about 80%), auto-augmentation is all that’s needed to achieve a flattering contour. But if you’re looking for a bit more fullness, fat transfer can be a fanta...
The 1 Thing You Shouldn’t Let Hold You Back from Making Your Dreams Become Real
Getting the timing right for cosmetic surgery is already difficult, between taking time off and getting help with kids or covering daily responsibilities. If the time is right, but the cash isn’t quite there, there are payment combinations and zero interest plans that can make your dreams become real now.
Our COO Janelle shares actual scenarios from a few real patients of different ages and backgrounds who figured out their own ways to pay for breast augmentation, mommy makeover, and face lift.
Learn more about:
Interest-free vs. fixed-percentage payment plans and whic...
Life After Facelift: What to Expect
The goal of a facelift isn’t to rewind the clock 30 years—it’s to help you look like the best version of yourself.
Most people have a “What did I just do?!” moment after surgery. It’s totally normal. Recovery can feel like a rollercoaster at first, but your face will transform little by little every day. We’re here to guide you through each phase and help you trust the process.
San Diego plastic surgeon Dr. Diana Breister walks us through what to expect, from those early recovery days to finally seeing your stunning results.
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Why Scars are a Trade-Off You Won’t Regret
Plastic surgeons adeptly minimize scarring with small, precisely hidden incisions, but there’s always a balance between scar visibility and achieving the best results.
San Diego plastic surgeon Dr. Hector Salazar-Reyes explains this balance, sharing insights on incision techniques, healing, and the importance of proper care before and after plastic surgery.
Find out:
How long it takes for scars to mature and what the healing process looks likeTips for boosting healing and achieving your best resultsThe surprising role nutrition plays in recovery after plastic surgeryWhy you might heal faster the younger you are...
Meet Lauren: Signature Skinny Shot Weight Loss Program Patient Coordinator
As our friendly and supportive patient coordinator for the Signature Skinny Shot weight loss program, Lauren is here to guide you every step of the way on your weight loss journey, ensuring you feel confident and cared for.
With her certification as a Certified Nursing Assistant, she brings solid medical knowledge to her role, making her a trusted resource.
Her background in psychology also gives her a unique ability to connect with you on a deeper level, helping you feel understood and supported. She knows starting a weight loss program can feel a little overwhelming, but sh...
Deck the Halls and Save $500 on Cosmetic Surgery: Our Holiday Treats for You!
With some amazing members of the LJCSC Dream Team, Monique & friends chat about the heartwarming traditions, favorite dishes, and unforgettable memories that make the holidays so special.
From putting up Christmas trees extra early to savoring unique family recipes, you’ll hear all about how the LJCSC team embraces the season with their families. They dive into everything from matching Christmas pajamas and sentimental ornaments to the joy of giving and reflecting on the meaning of the holidays.
Receive a $500 voucher toward your end-of-year cosmetic surgery when you book and complete your surgery on one of ou...
Top 3 San Diego Hotels for Cosmetic Surgery Recovery
Picking the right place to recover after plastic surgery is key to a smooth, stress-free experience.
Whether you're traveling from out of town or just need a peaceful spot away from home, Dr. Salazar talks through some of the best hotel options in La Jolla. He explains why staying close by can make a big difference in both comfort and safety.
Find out:
Which surgeries require a longer recovery timeHelpful tips for planning both your procedure and stayOur top 3 nearby hotels for post-surgery comfortLow-impact activities and sightseeing ideas for your recoveryAvailable post-op c...
When is the Best Time to Have Plastic Surgery and Why is it Winter?
The timing of your surgery can make a big difference, and some seasons are just easier than others.
Winter is often ideal for body contouring procedures. Why? For starters, you don’t have to worry about overheating in snug recovery garments, and by the time summer rolls around, you’ll be ready to show off your results.
For Dr. Breister, the week between Christmas and New Year’s is one of the busiest times in the OR. It’s the perfect time to slow down, hide under cozy sweaters, and get a little extra help from family or...
The Truth About Awake Liposuction: Plastic Surgeon Explains
There’s a ton of buzz around awake liposuction, but is it really a good idea?
Being comfortable during the procedure is absolutely essential for the best results. Although less expensive, Dr. Swistun warns that awake lipo has its downsides and saving money upfront could cost you more in complications.
Dr. Swistun shares what you need to know about awake lipo:
Risks of awake liposuction, especially if you don’t have much fat to begin withDifferences in recovery between general anesthesia and local anesthesiaDangers of price shoppingHow to vet your surgeon and make...
Introducing the Concierge Package: Same Award-Winning Care, Now with VIP Perks
At La Jolla Cosmetic Surgery Centre, we know your cosmetic journey is personal, and every step matters.
That’s why we offer two options: the Signature and Concierge experiences. Think of them as business class and first class—both elevated and never ordinary. No matter which you choose, our award-winning care stays the same.
With 36 years of experience and tens of thousands of 5-star reviews, find out what the LJCSC Signature Experience includes at no extra cost, from online tools to help you prepare for surgery to ALASTIN skin care for smooth healing.
Dr. Salaz...
Meet Jessica: Patient Care Coordinator
Jessica’s philosophy is simple: if something bothers you and you can change it, why not? She loves seeing people’s confidence blossom after their procedures.
As a Patient Care Coordinator, Jessica is the friendly voice you’ll hear first when you reach out to LJCSC. She’ll listen to your goals, answer your questions, and make sure you’re feeling great about your consultation. And she’ll be there every step of the way, guiding you through the process.
Jessica joined LJC in 2014 when Dr. Smoot came on board, having worked with him since 2000. She took a break...
Meet Jason: Skinny Shot Clinical Lead & Operating Room Nurse
Jason is a key player at LJC, leading our Signature Skinny Shot program and overseeing patient care efforts in the pre-op area and recovery room.
Jason's nursing background and expertise in health education make him the perfect guide to help you achieve your weight loss goals, offering tailored advice on eating right, exercising, and feeling your best. He’s with you every step of the way, ensuring you're on track and satisfied with your results.
Read more about Jason Whaley, AAS, BS, RN, NRP
Learn more about the Signature Skinny Shot
Third Time's The Charm? Why Danielle Needed a 3rd Cosmetic Breast Surgery
13 years after Danielle switched from saline to silicone breast implants, something felt off. When it felt like one of her implants was playing hide and seek during mammograms, she knew something needed to be done.
When she met with Dr. Salazar, he found that her right implant shifted out of place and the crease under her breasts disappeared. He decided to swap out the old implants for new ones and give her a breast lift while he was at it.
Safety was huge for Danielle, so she did her research before moving forward with anything. Find...
The 1 Thing You Can’t Live Without After Plastic Surgery
Now that Regina and Alexis have each shared their individual before and after stories, they’re together to recap what happened and how their plastic surgery experiences continue to impact their lives.
For anyone considering plastic surgery, hear firsthand how important it is to have someone in your corner throughout your whole aesthetic journey.
Whether it’s a bestie, family member, or partner, having that support system can make a world of difference.
And hear which plastic surgeon at LJC they lovingly refer to as “a cinnamon roll in human form.”
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How Alexis Conquered Her Panic Attacks & Biggest Insecurities: A Mommy Makeover Story
After losing 70 pounds with semaglutide, Alexis decided to take her body transformation to the next level with a tummy tuck, arm lift, 360 lipo, and chin lipo.
Arms were always Alexis’ biggest insecurity. Finding clothes that fit around them was a nightmare. Now, she wears long sleeves and sexy dresses comfortably and confidently.
Anxious by nature, her mom's bad surgery experience with another doctor hung over her head. Hear how she faced her fears and is absolutely loving her new body.
Find out why she chose Dr. Swistun for her mommy makeover, why compression garments are...
T-Z Plasty Update: Tightening Necklines for Men & Women
San Diego plastic surgeon Dr. Hector Salazar shares a new update on the T-Z Plasty, a targeted neck lift procedure with the potential to help a wider range of patients than he initially thought.
This innovative surgery tackles the "turkey neck" directly, avoiding the extensive incisions of a full face and neck lift.
Find out who can benefit from this unique neck lift surgery and how it works.
Links
Listen to our previous episode on T-Z Plasty and who it’s for
View T-Z Plasty before and after pho...
I Can Finally Look in the Mirror Again: Regina’s Tummy Tuck Revision Experience
Regina had a nightmare experience after her first tummy tuck and liposuction with an unqualified surgeon elsewhere, landing in the hospital for two weeks with an abscess followed by home nursing, and then requiring a walker and cane to get around.
When it came time to fix the mess, she was understandably worried. LJCSC plastic surgeon Dr. Swistun removed her dog ears, tightened and smoothed out her skin, and redid her incisions to be barely noticeable.
She’s thrilled to finally be able to look in the mirror and not be reminded of all that baggage fro...
Areola Reduction: Plastic Surgeon Explains The Surgery for Smaller Nipples & Areolas
You can have a nipple or areola reduction on its own, but these procedures often go hand-in-hand with breast reductions, lifts, or implants.
Dr. Salazar breaks down the difference between your nipples and areolas, how surgery can make them smaller, and what to expect with scars and aftercare.
Find out if you can breastfeed after a nipple reduction, whether men can get these procedures, and what accessory nipples, supernumerary nipples, and ectopic nipples are and how we remove them.
Learn more about breast surgery
Meet San Diego plastic surgeon Dr. Hector Salazar-Reyes
Plastic Surgeon Clears Up Capsulectomy Confusion
The term “en bloc” floats around online in breast implant associated illness circles, but this actually refers to cancer surgery where healthy tissue around a tumor is removed.
To update the terminology and clear up any confusion about capsulectomy, plastic surgeon Dr. Luke Swistun explains the definitions and differences between the specific explant procedures.
For his usual breast implant removal procedure, “total intact" is the most accurate term, which involves carefully removing the entire capsule without disturbing healthy tissue.
Links
Meet San Diego plastic surgeon Dr. Luke Swistun
Learn more about b...
I Broke Up With My Breast Implants: Caroline’s Explant Experience
After 8 years of living with 400cc silicone implants, Caroline started feeling differently about them. Later on, seeing coworkers rave about their explants inspired her to seriously consider removing hers.
It wasn't an easy decision, as those implants had been part of her for a whole decade. Caroline shares the emotional rollercoaster leading up to her explant surgery and how she found support from Dr. Swistun and other women who had been through it.
Find out what motivated Caroline to book her capsulectomy, explant, and breast lift on the spot at her consultation with Dr. Swistun and...
Fat Transfer: What Can Go Wrong? Plastic Surgeon Explains
Successfully moving fat requires finding the sweet spot – not too much, not too little. Dr. Swistun explains the art of transferring fat: you want enough fat to stick after healing, but not too much that it causes issues.
Dr. Swistun explains the patient-specific and surgeon-specific factors in getting the right amount, what can happen if too much fat is used, and post-op care tips to avoid complications.
Find out what can go wrong with fat transfer, how we prevent these complications, and how to choose the right surgeon for this delicate procedure.
Links...
We’re turning 36! Here’s how you can win up to $2,000 this August [BONUS]
To celebrate our 36th birthday, we’re here with some specials for the month of August:
Alastin Product Sale
Get 36% off Alastin Restorative Skin Complex with TriHex Technology until July 31.
36th Birthday Wish Sweepstakes
Tell us what's on your cosmetic surgery wishlist throughout the month of August for a chance to win up to $2,000 toward your dream surgery! Don't miss out on this chance to make your wish a reality.
Winning Wednesdays
Visit us in person at LJC in August to drop your name in the fishbowl and we’ll p...
The Best Plastic Surgery Procedures For Your 20’s
Your 20’s are a time for adventures, not wrinkles. But we see plenty of young people wanting to enhance their natural beauty. Plastic surgeon Dr. Hector Salazar shares the best procedures for this age group.
From breast implants to liposuction to addressing facial features that have always bugged you, hear Dr. Salazar’s expert advice for the best ways to love the skin you’re in during this decade.
Links
Meet San Diego plastic surgeon Dr. Hector Salazar-Reyes
Listen to our episodes with Dr. Salazar on male breast reduction and HD lip...
Flat is Kind of Cool: Amie’s Breast Implant Removal
Amie had her first breast augmentation with saline implants at age 21 (back in 1998 when Pamela Anderson was the “it girl") and 13 years later switched to silicone.
When unexplained symptoms emerged, she wondered if her breast implants were the cause. Feeling lost, she found an online community focused on breast implant illness (BII). It was in this group where she heard about LJC plastic surgeon Dr. Luke Swistun.
After her capsulectomy & explant surgery, Amie learned from Dr. Swistun that her left implant had ruptured.
Links
Meet San Diego plastic surgeon Dr. Luke...
Nan’s Unusual Tirzepatide Experience
Nan stepped on the scale one day and realized she had gained 50 lbs thanks to staying in during COVID, drinking wine, and cooking a lot.
When she tried eating smaller portions and exercising every day, she failed to lose even 5 lbs. Within 10 days of starting the skinny shot, she lost 17 lbs. Feeling great, she kept going and is now 30 pounds lighter.
She’s now wearing jeans she couldn’t even get over her waist before, but more importantly, her relationship with food has completely changed.
Links
Learn more about our medic...
3 Potential Breast Augmentation Complications (& How Plastic Surgeons Prevent Them)
Complications from breast implant surgery are rare, and surgeons keep a close eye on patients to catch and prevent any issues.
LJC plastic surgeon Dr. Hector Salazar takes us through the most common complications: capsular contracture, implant rupture or deflation, and the need for revision surgery.
Dr. Salazar explains what these complications are, how to tell if they’re happening to you, and the steps he takes before, during, and after surgery to minimize risks.
Find out if it’s safe to get mammograms with implants, what can happen if you don’t follow post-op...
