DiscoverLipstick & Lipo: Your Unfiltered Guide to Plastic Surgery
Lipstick & Lipo: Your Unfiltered Guide to Plastic Surgery
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Lipstick & Lipo: Your Unfiltered Guide to Plastic Surgery

Author: Dr. Smita Ramanadham and Dr. Ashley Amalfi

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Join us, two Board-Certified female Plastic Surgeons, as we discuss all things plastic surgery, beauty, and wellness. No topic is off-limits. Our mission is to provide you with accurate information and educate in a real, approachable, and relatable way.

Dr. Smita R. Ramanadham is a double-board certified plastic surgeon in private solo practice in NJ and Dr. Ashley Amalfi is a board certified plastic surgeon in private practice in Rochester, NY.

We share a love and passion for plastic surgery, mentorship, women in surgery, and, fashion (of course!)! Our friendship has been so natural and organic that it only made sense that we would start this adventure together. We hope you enjoy these episodes as much as we enjoyed making them!
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Is there an ideal weight for breast augmentation? While this isn't discussed as much for body contouring procedures, it absolutely matters for your results and safety. Most breast augmentation patients naturally tend to be at a stable weight already, but understanding why timing matters can help you get the best possible outcome. We're discussing why chasing a moving target with weight changes can affect your results, how BMI impacts surgical complications, and why getting to a healthy, stable weight before surgery sets you up for success. What you'll learn: How weight changes after breast augmentation affect your results. The "never chase a moving target" principle for plastic surgery. Why higher BMI increases surgical complications. How breast tissue responds to weight fluctuations. The role of GLP-1 medications in pre-surgery weight management. How to prepare your body for the best possible results. If you're considering breast augmentation, this episode helps you understand the timing. Share it with anyone preparing for surgery. And make sure you're subscribed so you never miss the critical information that helps you make an educated decision. Connect with Dr. Smita Website Instagram Connect with Dr. Amalfi Website Instagram
Anesthesia anxiety is one of the most common reasons people hesitate to move forward with plastic surgery. The fear is real, but the reality is very different from what you might imagine. We're addressing the biggest concerns about going under anesthesia and explaining why modern plastic surgery in accredited facilities is remarkably safe. From what actually happens when you're under anesthesia to the credentials you should look for in your surgical team, we're breaking down everything you need to know. The truth is, if you're a healthy candidate going to an accredited surgery center or hospital with credentialed providers, the risks are incredibly low. What you'll learn: Why anesthesia anxiety is so common for elective surgery patients. The actual safety statistics for anesthesia in plastic surgery. What makes a surgery center "accredited" and why it matters. The difference between hospital and surgery center anesthesia. Who should be administering your anesthesia. Red flags to watch for when choosing a surgical facility. How closely you're monitored under anesthesia. Why healthy candidates have extremely low risk. The questions to ask about your anesthesia team. If anesthesia anxiety has been holding you back from a consultation, this episode might give you the information you need. Make sure you're subscribed so you never miss the critical information that helps you make an educated decision. Connect with Dr. Smita Website Instagram Connect with Dr. Amalfi Website Instagram
Not all surgeons are the same, and the difference can impact your safety. The terms "plastic surgeon" and "cosmetic surgeon" sound similar, but they represent vastly different levels of training and expertise. One requires nearly a decade of specialized surgical training and rigorous board certification. The other might be a doctor who took a short course. We're explaining what board certification actually means, why it matters for your safety, and the questions you need to ask before choosing a surgeon. Understanding these credentials could be one of the most important decisions you make. What you'll learn: The key differences between plastic surgeons and cosmetic surgeons. What board certification actually requires and why it's so rigorous. How many years of training plastic surgeons complete. Why "cosmetic surgery" is not a recognized medical specialty. The written and oral exam process for board certification. How plastic surgeons handle complications versus others. Why re-certification is required every 5-10 years. The exact questions to ask your surgeon about credentials. Red flags that indicate someone isn't properly qualified. Why websites can be misleading about credentials. If you're considering any cosmetic procedure, this episode gives you the questions to ask. Make sure you're subscribed so you never miss the critical information that helps you make an educated decision.   Connect with Dr. Smita Website Instagram Connect with Dr. Amalfi Website Instagram  
At 84, Martha Stewart doesn't look her age and she's not shy about saying that's intentional. She's been open about using some treatments while maintaining privacy about the specifics. Her incredibly active lifestyle and commitment to health are just as much a part of the equation as any procedure. We're discussing what makes her different from the dramatic transformations we usually see in celebrity culture. Her philosophy combines healthy living with strategic treatments, creating results that look natural instead of overdone. This is what it looks like when someone ages beautifully without trying to look 30 years younger. If you've ever wondered what "aging gracefully" actually means, Martha Stewart is showing us how it's done.   What you'll learn: What makes Martha's approach different from other celebrities. The real meaning of aging gracefully versus anti-aging. Why lifestyle and procedures work together. How to age beautifully without dramatic transformations. The right balance between privacy and honesty. Are you inspired by Martha's approach? Small changes over time really do make a difference. If you found this episode helpful, we would love for you to share it with someone who might be struggling with what it looks like to age gracefully. Connect with Dr. Smita Website Instagram   Connect with Dr. Amalfi Website Instagram  
This is probably the most common question we get asked: How often do breast implants need to be replaced? A lot of advice says 10-15 years, but that's not actually true. There's no expiration date on breast implants. We explain why the timeline is different for everyone, what signs to watch for that indicate replacement might be needed, and how to think about imaging for both your implants and your breast tissue. We also discuss the important distinction between replacing implants because they failed versus changing them because your breast itself has changed over time through weight fluctuations, pregnancy, or natural aging. What you'll learn: Why the 10-15 year replacement timeline is a myth. The car tire analogy that explains replacement timing perfectly. How to know if your implant has failed or ruptured. What capsular contracture looks and feels like. FDA imaging recommendations for silicone implants. The difference between imaging for implants versus breast tissue. When ultrasound and MRI are needed for implant evaluation. Have you been putting off your mammogram or breast imaging? This is your reminder to schedule it. Taking care of your breast health matters, whether you have implants or not.   Connect with Dr. Smita Website Instagram   Connect with Dr. Amalfi Website Instagram
Male cosmetic procedures are booming, especially in two specific industries: tech and finance. We're seeing a surge of men in their 50s and 60s feeling pressure to look younger as 20 and 30-year-old workers enter their offices. From Botox and skincare to facelifts and body contouring, men are embracing procedures they once avoided. We discuss why this demographic shift is happening now, how we approach male procedures differently to maintain masculinity, and why many male patients start their journey after watching their wives' positive experiences. Whether it's facial rejuvenation to look powerful in boardrooms or body contouring for a more athletic appearance, the stigma around male plastic surgery is finally fading.   What you'll learn: The key differences in approaching male versus female facial surgery Why maintaining masculinity is critical in male procedures Common male procedures: Botox, facelifts, eyelid surgery, liposuction, gynecomastia How male eyebrow and jaw structure differs from female anatomy Why many men start their plastic surgery journey through their wives Why starting small with skincare leads to better aging over time If you found this episode interesting, share it with someone who might benefit from hearing that plastic surgery isn't just for women anymore. Real expert advice makes all the difference.   Dr. Smita Ramanadham Connect with Dr. Smita Website Instagram Connect with Dr. Amalfi Website Instagram  
Simone Biles has been incredibly transparent about her breast augmentation, sharing details about her surgery and her board certified female surgeon. We applaud her openness and her choice of a qualified surgeon. However, as board certified plastic surgeons who specialize in breast surgery, we have serious concerns about one specific aspect of her procedure: the placement of her implants under the muscle. For an elite athlete with the strongest pec muscles you can imagine, cutting that muscle and placing implants underneath can possibly create long-term complications. We explain why this placement may cause her implants to migrate laterally over time, what alternatives would have been better suited for her athletic lifestyle, and why customizing surgery to each patient's unique anatomy and goals matters so much. What you'll learn: Why Simone Biles' implant placement is problematic for elite athletes. How pec muscle strength affects implant positioning over time. When under-muscle placement makes sense versus when it doesn't. The newer implant technology and techniques available today. What alternatives exist for athletic patients. Why there's no one-size-fits-all approach to breast augmentation. The importance of matching surgical technique to lifestyle. Are you loving these celebrity analysis episodes? Leave us a review on your podcast app it helps other people find evidence based plastic surgery information. Connect with Dr. Smita Website Instagram Connect with Dr. Amalfi Website Instagram
Viral beauty trends are everywhere on TikTok - from lip flips to buccal fat removal to slugging and face taping. We're discussing why chasing these trends is usually a waste of your time and money. As board certified plastic surgeons, we discuss the good and bad of social media's impact on plastic surgery, how to spot BS advice from unqualified "experts," and why reading recovery horror stories online isn't giving you the full picture. If something seems too cheap, too easy, or too good to be true it is. We explain how to invest your money wisely instead of wasting it on every new fad. What you'll learn: How to spot viral beauty BS on social media. The difference between an expert and someone with an Amazon review. Why recovery horror stories are usually extreme outliers. How to read patient experiences with the right lens. The good and bad impact of social media on plastic surgery. Why trends like lip flips, buccal fat removal, and BBLs go viral. How to invest vs. waste money on skincare and procedures. What questions to ask board certified plastic surgeons. We have amazing episodes coming up make sure you're subscribed so you never miss anything.   Connect with Dr. Smita Website Instagram   Connect with Dr. Amalfi Website Instagram
Andy Cohen looked noticeably different during his New Year's special with Anderson Cooper on CNN, sparking rumors about a facelift. He came out and addressed what he actually had done. He addressed the speculation, and we're looking at his before and after photos. We'll never truly know exactly what he's had done since we're not his doctors, but we discuss what weight loss, professional lighting, and makeup can do tools most people don't have access to. That's part of the challenge: celebrities can look amazing through a combination of resources the general population simply doesn't have. This sparks a bigger conversation about what celebrities owe the public. There's a level of privacy everyone deserves, but when you have a massive platform, where's the line between privacy and setting unrealistic expectations? We also dive into male cosmetic procedures, why male anatomy requires different techniques, and why Botox in men needs to be done perfectly to avoid feminization. What you'll learn: Specific changes visible in Andy Cohen's appearance. The anatomy differences that make male Botox more challenging. What professional makeup, lighting, and contouring can actually achieve. How facial volume changes naturally as we age. Why a straight brow matters for masculine appearance. The privacy versus transparency debate with real examples. Why weight loss shows differently on camera versus in person. We have some amazing episodes coming out over the next few months. Make sure you're subscribed so you never miss anythin Connect with Dr. Smita Website Instagram Connect with Dr. Amalfi Website Instagram  
Kendall Jenner recently spoke out on a podcast, stating she's never had plastic surgery only baby Botox. We're analyzing her before and after photos to educate our audience. When celebrities with massive platforms lie about their procedures, young women develop false expectations about what's naturally achievable. The transformation goes beyond what "baby Botox" alone can achieve. She has great genetics and looked beautiful before, and she looks gorgeous now but if she was honest about the work, it would actually help people understand these results come from a combination of genetics and procedures, not just one or the other. What you'll learn: What "baby Botox" is versus regular maintenance. How to spot the difference between minimal work and regular procedures. The visible changes we see in before and after comparisons. Why transparency matters from celebrities with large platforms. Don't forget to subscribe which helps more people find the channel and also makes sure you don't miss an episode. Dr. Smita Ramanadham Connect with Dr. Smita Website Instagram Connect with Dr. Amalfi Website Instagram
About a year ago, the FDA approved the Motiva implant and after using them in our practices, we're seeing why patients love them. These implants have been proven in Europe and South America for over a decade, and the technology is a real step forward. The gel and shell improvements mean they move and feel more like natural breast tissue than any previous generation. We discuss what's actually different and why this matters. What You'll Learn: Why the Motiva implants are a game-changer for natural results. How the FDA approval process works (and why the US gets technology last). The difference between textured and smooth implants. Why these new implants move and feel more like real breast tissue. Who makes a good candidate for this technology. Are you thinking about breast augmentation or upgrading to these newer implants? We practice in New Jersey and Rochester, NY, and we'd love to see you if you're in the area. You can come try them on and feel them in our office. Not local? Find a board-certified plastic surgeon near you and ask about 6th generation implants. Connect with Dr. Smita Website Instagram   Connect with Dr. Amalfi Website Instagram
Medical spas are popping up on every corner, and while many are reputable and well-run, not all are created equal. In this episode, we're giving you a reality check about what "medical" actually means when it comes to med spas. We discuss why any doctor can be a medical director (even if they have zero aesthetic training), the critical questions you need to ask before getting injected, and the red flags to watch out for. From supervision standards to pricing, we discuss how to find a truly qualified provider who can handle complications if they arise. What You'll Learn: Why "medical" spa doesn't always mean properly supervised. How any doctor (cardiologist, pediatrician, gastroenterologist) can be a medical director. The critical questions to ask: Who supervises you? Where are they? Can they handle complications? Why having protocols and immediate access to a qualified physician matters. Red flags: gimmicky marketing, shopping-like atmosphere, confusing answers. How to identify if a med spa is truly medical or just using the name. Dr. Smita Ramanadham Connect with Dr. Smita Website Instagram Connect with Dr. Amalfi Website Instagram  
We're living in the undetectable era where plastic surgery changes are subtle and hard to notice and that's exactly how it should be! After years of preaching natural results, the world is finally on board with our aesthetic. We discuss why good plastic surgery should look like you were born that way, how overdone procedures age poorly, and why less is always more. From BBLs to breast augmentations to facelifts, we explain how staying natural minimizes long-term complications and why plastic surgery is a marathon, not a sprint. What You'll Learn: Why overdone results age terribly and create long-term problems. How oversized implants and dramatic BBLs interfere with active lifestyles. Why natural results minimize long-term risks and complications. The importance of finding a surgeon whose aesthetic matches yours. How to approach plastic surgery as a marathon, not a sprint. Why establishing a long-term relationship with your plastic surgeon matters. The progression from skincare to injectables to surgery over time. How board certified plastic surgeons can guide you through every stage of aging. Don't forget to subscribe which helps more people find the channel and also makes sure you don't miss an episode. Connect with Dr. Smita Website Instagram Connect with Dr. Amalfi Website Instagram
We're diving into one of the most exciting innovations in breast surgery breast preservation! This revolutionary new technique for breast augmentation is changing everything by preserving your natural anatomy while delivering beautiful results with minimal downtime. Instead of cutting through tissue, this method uses a specialized device to gently stretch a pocket for the implant. We explain how it works, who it's for, why recovery is so much faster, and why you might not even need general anesthesia. If you've been considering breast augmentation but hesitant about the invasiveness or recovery time, this episode is for you. What You'll Learn: -What breast preservation surgery is and how it differs from traditional breast augmentation. -How the technique preserves natural ligaments, nerves, and breast tissue -Why this is ideal for smaller breast augmentations. -Recovery timeline: back to work the next day, gym within a week or two. -How this can be done under local anesthesia or light sedation instead of general anesthesia. -Why busy moms and working women are excited about this option. -Who is a good candidate for breast preservation. -Why 2026 will be a big year for this technique in the US. -How to find a surgeon who offers this procedure. Don't forget to subscribe which helps more people find the channel and also makes sure you don't miss an episode. We have more exciting things coming your way in 2026!   Connect with Dr. Smita Website Instagram Connect with Dr. Amalfi Website Instagram
Devil Wears Prada fans are buzzing about Emily Blunt's recent red carpet appearances while filming the sequel. She looks different, and it's the perfect opportunity to discuss facial aging and proper filler placement. As huge fans of both Emily and the original movie, we're using her transformation to teach you about facial contours and how we age from the triangle-to-square pattern to why treating the lower face makes everything worse. Understanding facial anatomy is essential for natural results, regardless of your resources. What You'll Learn: Why understanding facial contours is critical for natural results. How to identify when filler has distorted normal facial anatomy. Essential credentialing to look for in an injector (board certified plastic surgeon, dermatologist, or facial plastic surgeon). The "look at the staff" rule for choosing an injector. Why repeatedly getting filler resets your perception of "normal". Options for dissolving filler if facial contours have been lost. Don't forget to subscribe which helps more people find the channel and also makes sure you don't miss an episode. Connect with Dr. Ashley Amalfi: Website - https://www.quatela.com/about/our-surgeons/dr-ashley-n-amalfi/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/drashleyamalfi/   Connect with Dr. Smita Ramanadham: Website - https://www.drsmita.com/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thedrsmita/  
We're wrapping up our Recovery Q&A series with Part 3! In this episode, we answer three important questions: How does compression actually make fluid go away? What should you do about scar tissue forming along your incision? And is it safe to use conscious sedation with Valium for in-office procedures? We talk through the science behind compression garments, the normal scar healing process, and why a little medication can make your experience so much better. What You'll Learn: -How compression garments prevent excessive swelling and fluid buildup. -The timeline for lymphatic massage after surgery. -Understanding normal scar formation vs. problematic scarring. -The benefits of conscious sedation for in-office procedures. -Why anxiety management matters for your surgical experience. Do you have more recovery questions? Send a message on Instagram ! Don't forget to subscribe which helps more people find our show and also makes sure you don't miss an episode. We have more Q&A episodes coming your way! Connect with Dr. Ashley Amalfi: Website - https://www.quatela.com/about/our-surgeons/dr-ashley-n-amalfi/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/drashleyamalfi/   Connect with Dr. Smita Ramanadham: Website - https://www.drsmita.com/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thedrsmita/
We're back with Part 2 of our Recovery Q&A series! In this episode, we tackle two questions we get all the time: Should you split a mommy makeover into separate surgeries (and are your surgeons too tired to do multiple procedures)? What You'll Learn: Why combining procedures in a mommy makeover is actually safer. How surgeons manage energy and focus during longer procedures. Anesthesia time guidelines and safety considerations. What happens to your body if you get pregnant after a tummy tuck. Whether you'll need a revision surgery after pregnancy. Why some patients maintain perfect results even after surprise pregnancies. Don't forget to subscribe which helps more people find the channel and also makes sure you don't miss an episode. Tune in next week for Part 3 where we answer even more of your recovery questions.   Connect with Dr. Smita Website Instagram Connect with Dr. Amalfi Website Instagram
We're kicking off a new Q&A series all about recovery! In this episode, we tackle two of your most common questions: how soon can you realistically get back to work after surgery, and is it normal to still feel sore at two weeks post-op? We break down what to expect and why your whole body needs time to heal. What You'll Learn: Realistic work return timelines for breast surgery vs. tummy tuck. Why soreness at 2 weeks (and beyond) is totally normal. How your whole body heals from surgery, not just the surgical site. What factors affect your personal recovery timeline. Don't forget to subscribe which helps more people find the channel and also makes sure you don't miss an episode.   Connect with Dr. Smita Website Instagram Connect with Dr. Amalfi Website Instagram
We're living in the era of transparency in plastic surgery, and we're here for it! Shark Tank's Barbara Corcoran just revealed she's had three facelifts and earlobe filler, and she looks amazing. We discuss why celebrities in the spotlight maintain their results differently than most of us would, and what it really means to age gracefully with a little help. What You'll Learn: Why plastic surgery doesn't stop the clock and what maintenance really means. The difference between optimizing your look vs. transforming it. When the best time is to start facial rejuvenation. What earlobe filler is and why it's the secret weapon you didn't know about. How being in the spotlight changes the approach to maintaining results. Subscribe to Lipstick and Lipo on Apple Podcasts or Spotify for weekly episodes. Also if you prefer watching we are also on Youtube. We we would love you to leave us a review as that helps more people find the show! Connect with Dr. Smita Website Instagram   Connect with Dr. Amalfi Website Instagram
The holidays are right around the corner and we're discussing the perfect timeline for procedures so you look and feel your best for all those holiday parties. From major surgery to quick glow-up facials, we're covering what you can do at every stage leading up to your events. What You'll Learn: The ideal timeline for facial surgery before the holidays. When to schedule Botox based on whether you're a regular patient or first-timer. Why fillers need 2-4 weeks before events to allow for swelling The two-week rule before important events. Why bruising can happen even to experienced patients. Last-minute options like light chemical peels and hydrafacials for that holiday glow. Why the week after Christmas is actually the busiest time for surgery. Are you doing anything to refresh before the holidays? Tell us what you're planning in the comments! Subscribe to Lipstick and Lipo on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or YouTube.   Connect with Dr. Smita Website Instagram   Connect with Dr. Amalfi Website Instagram
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