Episodes

  • Back Fat Busted! Why Workouts Won’t Cut It & What Actually Works

    Back Fat Busted! Why Workouts Won’t Cut It & What Actually Works
    Apr 9 2025
    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’re dealing with loose skin after weight loss and considering an arm lift or Renuvion? Dr. Swistun shares when a combo approach makes the most sense.

    Hear real patient stories, recovery timelines, and how a more sculpted back can give you a serious confidence boost.

    Links

    Learn more about liposuction, 360 lipo and arm lift surgery

    Check out our before and after gallery to view lipo, Renuvion and arm lift results

    Hear Alexis’ arm lift experience

    Hear Amie's 360 lipo experience

    Meet San Diego plastic surgeon Dr. Luke Swistun

    Learn from the talented plastic surgeons inside La Jolla Cosmetic, the 20x winner of the Best of San Diego and global winner of the 2020 MyFaceMyBody Best Cosmetic/Plastic Surgery Practice.

    Join hostess Monique Ramsey as she takes you inside La Jolla Cosmetic Surgery Centre, where dreams become real. Featuring the unique expertise of San Diego’s most loved plastic surgeons, this podcast covers the latest trends in aesthetic surgery, including breast augmentation, breast implant removal, tummy tuck, mommy makeover, labiaplasty, facelifts and rhinoplasty.

    La Jolla Cosmetic is located just off the I-5 San Diego Freeway at 9850 Genesee Ave, Suite 130 in the Ximed building on the Scripps Memorial Hospital campus.

    To learn more, go to LJCSC.com or follow the team on Instagram @LJCSC

    Watch the LJCSC Dream Team on YouTube @LaJollaCosmetic

    The La Jolla Cosmetic Podcast is a production of The Axis: theaxis.io
    Show more Show less
    33 mins
  • Bye-Bye Stubborn Fat, Hello New Wardrobe: Karen’s GLP-1 Weight Loss Story

    Bye-Bye Stubborn Fat, Hello New Wardrobe: Karen’s GLP-1 Weight Loss Story
    Apr 1 2025
    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 overall boost in her health.

    She shares all the NSVs (non-scale victories), her best tips for seeing results while feeling great, how she uses ChatGPT to find great recipes, and her experience with the Signature Skinny Shot program at LJCSC.

    Links

    Learn more about the Signature Skinny Shot GLP-1 medical weight loss program at La Jolla Cosmetic Surgery Centre

    Learn more about the skinny shot and watch our video about getting started on our Signature Skinny Shot YouTube Playlist

    Learn from the talented plastic surgeons inside La Jolla Cosmetic, the 20x winner of the Best of San Diego and global winner of the 2020 MyFaceMyBody Best Cosmetic/Plastic Surgery Practice.

    Join hostess Monique Ramsey as she takes you inside La Jolla Cosmetic Surgery Centre, where dreams become real. Featuring the unique expertise of San Diego’s most loved plastic surgeons, this podcast covers the latest trends in aesthetic surgery, including breast augmentation, breast implant removal, tummy tuck, mommy makeover, labiaplasty, facelifts and rhinoplasty.

    La Jolla Cosmetic is located just off the I-5 San Diego Freeway at 9850 Genesee Ave, Suite 130 in the Ximed building on the Scripps Memorial Hospital campus.

    To learn more, go to LJCSC.com or follow the team on Instagram @LJCSC

    Watch the LJCSC Dream Team on YouTube @LaJollaCosmetic

    The La Jolla Cosmetic Podcast is a production of The Axis: theaxis.io
    Show more Show less
    25 mins
  • The Cosmetic Procedures for Men That No One Will Notice (But Everyone Will See)

    The Cosmetic Procedures for Men That No One Will Notice (But Everyone Will See)
    Mar 18 2025
    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.

    Find out the best treatment options for common concerns that men have, from HD lipo and male breast reduction to hair restoration.

    Links

    Learn more about HD lipo, breast reduction for men and hair transplants

    View high definition liposuction before and after photos

    View T-Z Plasty before and after photos

    Listen to our previous episode, T-Z Plasty Update: Tightening Necklines for Men & Women

    Listen to HD Lipo: What is it & who is it for?

    Meet San Diego plastic surgeon Dr. Hector Salazar-Reyes

    Learn from the talented plastic surgeons inside La Jolla Cosmetic, the 20x winner of the Best of San Diego and global winner of the 2020 MyFaceMyBody Best Cosmetic/Plastic Surgery Practice.

    Join hostess Monique Ramsey as she takes you inside La Jolla Cosmetic Surgery Centre, where dreams become real. Featuring the unique expertise of San Diego’s most loved plastic surgeons, this podcast covers the latest trends in aesthetic surgery, including breast augmentation, breast implant removal, tummy tuck, mommy makeover, labiaplasty, facelifts and rhinoplasty.

    La Jolla Cosmetic is located just off the I-5 San Diego Freeway at 9850 Genesee Ave, Suite 130 in the Ximed building on the Scripps Memorial Hospital campus.

    To learn more, go to LJCSC.com or follow the team on Instagram @LJCSC

    Watch the LJCSC Dream Team on YouTube @LaJollaCosmetic

    The La Jolla Cosmetic Podcast is a production of The Axis: theaxis.io
    Show more Show less
    43 mins
  • Mini or Full Facelift? How Plastic Surgeons Choose What’s Best for Your Face

    Mini or Full Facelift? How Plastic Surgeons Choose What’s Best for Your Face
    Mar 11 2025
    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 understands facial anatomy and skin quality is key to achieving the best outcome.

    Find out who makes a good candidate for a mini facelift, how long results typically last, and the role of fat transfer in facial rejuvenation.

    Links

    Learn more about mini facelift

    Meet San Diego plastic surgeon Dr. John Smoot

    See a mini facelift before and after result by Dr. Smoot

    Learn from the talented plastic surgeons inside La Jolla Cosmetic, the 20x winner of the Best of San Diego and global winner of the 2020 MyFaceMyBody Best Cosmetic/Plastic Surgery Practice.

    Join hostess Monique Ramsey as she takes you inside La Jolla Cosmetic Surgery Centre, where dreams become real. Featuring the unique expertise of San Diego’s most loved plastic surgeons, this podcast covers the latest trends in aesthetic surgery, including breast augmentation, breast implant removal, tummy tuck, mommy makeover, labiaplasty, facelifts and rhinoplasty.

    La Jolla Cosmetic is located just off the I-5 San Diego Freeway at 9850 Genesee Ave, Suite 130 in the Ximed building on the Scripps Memorial Hospital campus.

    To learn more, go to LJCSC.com or follow the team on Instagram @LJCSC

    Watch the LJCSC Dream Team on YouTube @LaJollaCosmetic

    The La Jolla Cosmetic Podcast is a production of The Axis: theaxis.io
    Show more Show less
    20 mins
  • Meet Amber, Plastic Surgery Photographer & Marketing Specialist

    Meet Amber, Plastic Surgery Photographer & Marketing Specialist
    Mar 4 2025
    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 the leap from a traditional photography studio to the creative world of aesthetics at LJCSC, how she helps you feel at ease during sensitive photo sessions, and what she’s learned so far about social media marketing in plastic surgery.

    Links

    Watch Amber and Gretchell’s clever Valentine’s Day Reel

    Watch LJCSC’s take on the office vibe check trendGot photos of you enjoying your LJCSC results to share? Email amber@ljcsc.com!

    Show our Dream Team that you’re a subscriber of The La Jolla Cosmetic Podcast and get 25% off of $50 or more on our Alastin shop!

    Learn from the talented plastic surgeons inside La Jolla Cosmetic, the 20x winner of the Best of San Diego and global winner of the 2020 MyFaceMyBody Best Cosmetic/Plastic Surgery Practice.

    Join hostess Monique Ramsey as she takes you inside La Jolla Cosmetic Surgery Centre, where dreams become real. Featuring the unique expertise of San Diego’s most loved plastic surgeons, this podcast covers the latest trends in aesthetic surgery, including breast augmentation, breast implant removal, tummy tuck, mommy makeover, labiaplasty, facelifts and rhinoplasty.

    La Jolla Cosmetic is located just off the I-5 San Diego Freeway at 9850 Genesee Ave, Suite 130 in the Ximed building on the Scripps Memorial Hospital campus.

    To learn more, go to LJCSC.com or follow the team on Instagram @LJCSC

    Watch the LJCSC Dream Team on YouTube @LaJollaCosmetic

    The La Jolla Cosmetic Podcast is a production of The Axis: theaxis.io
    Show more Show less
    18 mins
  • Are Fillers Over? Plastic Surgeon Explains Growing “Filler Fatigue” Trend

    Are Fillers Over? Plastic Surgeon Explains Growing “Filler Fatigue” Trend
    Feb 18 2025
    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 weight with a face full of filler?
    • Does social media play a role in what's “in” and “out” in aesthetics?
    • Can filler actually migrate, and where does it go?
    • Can you dissolve all fillers? What do you look like after?
    • What does a surgeon see when operating on someone with years of filler?
    • How to get filler right without looking overdone
    • Mini facelifts in your 30s—too soon or the new norm?
    • How facial fat transfer works and how it’s changing facelifts
    Links

    Watch IMPACT x Nightline: Facelift: After Fillers? on Hulu

    Meet San Diego plastic surgeon Dr. Diana Breister Ghosh

    Learn more about facelift and facial fat transfer

    Learn from the talented plastic surgeons inside La Jolla Cosmetic, the 20x winner of the Best of San Diego and global winner of the 2020 MyFaceMyBody Best Cosmetic/Plastic Surgery Practice.

    Join hostess Monique Ramsey as she takes you inside La Jolla Cosmetic Surgery Centre, where dreams become real. Featuring the unique expertise of San Diego’s most loved plastic surgeons, this podcast covers the latest trends in aesthetic surgery, including breast augmentation, breast implant removal, tummy tuck, mommy makeover, labiaplasty, facelifts and rhinoplasty.

    La Jolla Cosmetic is located just off the I-5 San Diego Freeway at 9850 Genesee Ave, Suite 130 in the Ximed building on the Scripps Memorial Hospital campus.

    To learn more, go to LJCSC.com or follow the team on Instagram @LJCSC

    Watch the LJCSC Dream Team on YouTube @LaJollaCosmetic

    The La Jolla Cosmetic Podcast is a production of The Axis: theaxis.io
    Show more Show less
    25 mins
  • Stop Believing These Hair Transplant Myths

    Stop Believing These Hair Transplant Myths
    Feb 11 2025
    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 transplant
    • What to expect on your hair transplant surgery day
    • Why you might need multiple sessions and how many grafts can be done at once
    • How long it takes to see results
    • The role of eyebrow transplants for thinning brows
    • The reality of the hibernation phase of transplanted follicles and when they’ll grow into a full head of hair
    • Why early intervention is key
    • Whether the donor area will grow back
    • How to spot edited before-and-after photos
    • Why we use SmartGraft FUE technology
    Links

    Watch our live webinar on SmartGraft hair restoration

    View hair restoration before and after photos

    Meet San Diego plastic surgeon Dr. Hector Salazar-Reyes

    Learn from the talented plastic surgeons inside La Jolla Cosmetic, the 20x winner of the Best of San Diego and global winner of the 2020 MyFaceMyBody Best Cosmetic/Plastic Surgery Practice.

    Join hostess Monique Ramsey as she takes you inside La Jolla Cosmetic Surgery Centre, where dreams become real. Featuring the unique expertise of San Diego’s most loved plastic surgeons, this podcast covers the latest trends in aesthetic surgery, including breast augmentation, breast implant removal, tummy tuck, mommy makeover, labiaplasty, facelifts and rhinoplasty.

    La Jolla Cosmetic is located just off the I-5 San Diego Freeway at 9850 Genesee Ave, Suite 130 in the Ximed building on the Scripps Memorial Hospital campus.

    To learn more, go to LJCSC.com or follow the team on Instagram @LJCSC

    Watch the LJCSC Dream Team on YouTube @LaJollaCosmetic

    The La Jolla Cosmetic Podcast is a production of The Axis: theaxis.io
    Show more Show less
    38 mins
  • How Amie Got The Body Of Her 20’s Back (At 40-Something)

    How Amie Got The Body Of Her 20’s Back (At 40-Something)
    Feb 4 2025
    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 stayed positive and even had fun during downtime.

    A note from Amie:
    “You have one life to live, have no regrets and give yourself that confidence you want!”

    Find out:

    • Why she chose Dr. Swistun after consulting with multiple doctors
    • How painful recovery was for her
    • How long she took off from her job as an ER nurse
    • Tips for wearing compression garments during the summer
    • How Dr. Swistun cleverly hid her incisions in her tattoos
    Links

    Meet Amie’s doctor, San Diego plastic surgeon Dr. Luke Swistun

    Meet Amie’s lymphatic massage therapist, Kathleen Lisson

    Learn more about 360 lipo

    Hear Dr. Swistun explain his 3-position approach to 360 lipo on our episode, What Other Plastic Surgeons Won’t Tell You About 360 Lipo

    View highlights from Amie’s photo shoot with Dr. Swistun

    Learn from the talented plastic surgeons inside La Jolla Cosmetic, the 20x winner of the Best of San Diego and global winner of the 2020 MyFaceMyBody Best Cosmetic/Plastic Surgery Practice.

    Join hostess Monique Ramsey as she takes you inside La Jolla Cosmetic Surgery Centre, where dreams become real. Featuring the unique expertise of San Diego’s most loved plastic surgeons, this podcast covers the latest trends in aesthetic surgery, including breast augmentation, breast implant removal, tummy tuck, mommy makeover, labiaplasty, facelifts and rhinoplasty.

    La Jolla Cosmetic is located just off the I-5 San Diego Freeway at 9850 Genesee Ave, Suite 130 in the Ximed building on the Scripps Memorial Hospital campus.

    To learn more, go to LJCSC.com or follow the team on Instagram @LJCSC

    Watch the LJCSC Dream Team on YouTube @LaJollaCosmetic

    The La Jolla Cosmetic Podcast is a production of The Axis: theaxis.io
    Show more Show less
    39 mins