Episodes

With over 13 years in aesthetics, Ruthie has been helping people feel confident and cared for since she was just 21, and she’s loved every minute of it. From your very first inquiry to your final post-op visit, Ruthie is there to guide you through it...

Since silicone gel breast implant ruptures are silent and don’t cause symptoms, they can go undetected for a very long time. Even though an MRI is recommended to check for ruptures three years after surgery and every two years after that, most people don’t do it because MRIs are pricey and not exactly convenient. High-definition ultrasound is a more accessible, affordable alternative to an MRI. Routine ultrasounds every 2 to 3 years are a smart way to stay ahead of any issues with your breast ...

You’ve had the surgery, the swelling’s gone, and your results are settling in, but there’s one final detail that can really complete the transformation. Vanessa Dougherty is a tattoo artist who specializes in scar camouflage and restorative micropigmentation. She works closely with plastic surgeons to help patients take their results to the next level using color, care, and craft. Vanessa shares how she got into medical tattooing, why technique and color matching matter so much, and how every ...

For 79 years, Las Patronas has been one of San Diego’s most quietly powerful forces for good, fueling vital work in supporting the arts, people with disabilities, underserved youth, healthcare, and more. Rowena Treitler, president of Las Patronas, shares the story behind this all-women, all-volunteer organization. She shares how it started, how La Jolla Cosmetic is connected, and what’s coming up, including their biggest event of the year: the Jewel Ball. Each year, Las Patronas aims to raise ...

Monique and Hannah take a walk down memory lane, reflecting on the moments that make this podcast so loved by our patients and listeners all over the world. For four years, we’ve shared real patient stories, expert insights, and clear, honest education about the procedures we do. In this celebratory 200th episode of the La Jolla Cosmetic podcast, hear our real-time reactions to 10 of our favorite moments… everything from Monique’s last-minute duct tape recording setups to that episode where Dr...

You find yourself looking in the mirror after major weight loss and thinking, “Where do I even begin?” Loose skin on your stomach, thighs, arms, or butt feels overwhelming, and Googling “body lift” only adds to the confusion. Can you do it all at...

After surgery like facelifts, tummy tucks, liposuction, or BBLs, swelling and stiffness can stick around. Lymphatic drainage can make a big difference in your recovery. Planning your post-op care ahead of time is just as important as choosing the right procedure, and not all lymphatic massages are the same. To support healing, you need someone who truly understands the lymphatic system. A qualified therapist with the right training can help you recover safely and more effectively. Many people...

With over 10 years of experience as a medical assistant, Cynthia wears many hats at LJCSC. Whether she’s at the front desk greeting patients, answering phone calls, helping with scheduling, or in the back assisting with rooming and follow-up procedures, she’s always ready to jump in wherever she’s needed. Cynthia knew right out of high school that she wanted to become a medical assistant. Over the years, she’s worked in a variety of settings—from chiropractors’ offices to family health centers,...

Think you’re too young—or too old—for plastic surgery? You’re not alone. Whether you’re in your 20s and wondering if it’s “too soon” or in your 70s questioning if it’s “too late,” age alone shouldn’t be the deciding factor. Instead of waiting for the “perfect” age, it’s more helpful to focus on what you’d like to improve. Dr. Luke Swistun breaks down how age can influence plastic surgery decisions and how healthy habits can enhance results or even delay the need for certain treatments. Why put...

Juliana is often the first friendly face you’ll see after meeting with a coordinator. As a medical assistant, she loves being part of your journey and seeing your transformation from consult to post-op care. Juliana’s passion for plastic surgery and helping patients feel their best shines through in everything she does. Her background in urgent care gave her a wide range of medical experience, which she brings to every patient interaction. She’s always happy to help you feel confident and info...

Not sure you even want plastic surgery because the whole recovery thing feels like a mystery? We totally get it, and we’re demystifying it for you. Knowing what to expect during recovery makes all the difference. The truth is, those final results you’re after can take weeks, months, or even longer to really be final. San Diego plastic surgeon Dr. Hector Salazar breaks it down, from why swelling happens, to the importance of lymphatic drainage, compression garments, drains, and why getting up a...

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 a...

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 la...

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...

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. Forg...

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-look...

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 ...

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...

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 persona...

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 reall...

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...

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...

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 th...

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 loss What procedures are typically involved to reshape your body Why m...