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Lipstick & Lipo: Your Unfiltered Guide to Plastic Surgery
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!
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!
134 Episodes
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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
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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
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Connect with Dr. Amalfi
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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
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Connect with Dr. Amalfi
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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
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Connect with Dr. Amalfi
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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
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Connect with Dr. Amalfi
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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
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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
We're wrapping up your breast surgery questions! This time we're tackling small reductions with lifts and when you can get back to intense workouts like assisted pull-ups. Your specific fitness questions answered.
What You'll Learn:
How you can go down one cup size sometimes with just a lift (no tissue removal).
The gradient between lifts and reductions - it's a spectrum.
When you can do assisted pull-ups after breast surgery.
The 6-week mark and how to gradually ramp back up to your workout routine.
Why you should never push through pain after surgery.
Subscribe to Lipstick and Lipo on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or YouTube so you never miss an episode. More Q&A episodes coming keep asking questions in the comments!
Connect with Dr. Smita
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Instagram
Connect with Dr. Amalfi
Website
Instagram
We're back answering your real breast surgery questions! This time we're tackling mesh use, internal bras with lifts, and mastectomy reconstruction - all the super specific technical questions you've been asking about.
What You'll Learn:
Whether using mesh on only one breast causes long-term asymmetry issues
If you can get an internal bra at the same time as a breast lift.
Why we prefer symmetrical procedures even when only one side needs correction.
Our latest approach to mastectomy reconstruction (over vs under the muscle).
How technology has evolved to allow less invasive techniques with better results.
Why auto augmentation with internal bra works well for smaller lifts.
Subscribe to Lipstick and Lipo on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or YouTube so you never miss an episode. Part 3 coming next week keep those questions DM us on Instagram!
Connect with Dr. Smita
Website
Instagram
Connect with Dr. Amalfi
Website
Instagram
We have compiled all your questions, starting with the first segment about breast implants.
From dual plane confusion to teardrop implant disappoint, we're talking about the technical details you actually want to know and explaining why implant technology has evolved so much that old ways of doing things might not apply anymore.
What You'll Learn:
What dual plane implants actually are.
Will going up 5 cc's make any visible difference in your results?
The truth about teardrop implants.
Why putting implants in after a breast reduction is unpredictable.
Why finding a surgeon who evolves with technology is important.
We love receiving your questions. We will continue to do these types of videos so make sure to send us a DM on Instagram with your questions!
Subscribe to Lipstick and Lipo on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or YouTube so you never miss an episode.
Connect with Dr. Smita
Website
Instagram
Connect with Dr. Amalfi
Website
Instagram
There's a lot of hesitation and judgment around labiaplasty, but we perform these procedures multiple times per week and see incredible transformations.
Many women are scared to talk to their doctors about this or get brushed off. We want to end the stigma by sharing the real reasons patients choose this procedure.
What You'll Learn:
Why patients often get brushed off by other healthcare providers who say "it's all normal".
What labiaplasty actually involves (it's simpler than you think). -Why this has one of the highest patient satisfaction rates in plastic surgery.
The difference between labia minora and majora concerns.
Why patients rarely need long-term follow-up after this procedure.
Why this procedure spans all age groups from post-pregnancy to post-menopause.
We know this is one of your favorite topics so drop your labiaplasty questions on the Lipstick and Lipo Instagram page we'll keep addressing your concerns!
Subscribe to Lipstick and Lipo on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or YouTube so you never miss an episode. Drop your labiaplasty questions in the comments we'll keep addressing your concerns!
Connect with Dr. Smita
Website
Instagram
Connect with Dr. Amalfi
Website
Instagram
Some patients research everything about breast implants before their consult, while others walk in saying "I don't know if I need a lift or an implant."
Dr. Ashley Amalfi and Dr. Smita Ramanadham discuss what you need to know about size, shape, projection, and fill to make the best decision for your body.
What You'll Learn:
The difference between saline and silicone implants (and why 99% choose silicone).
What high profile, moderate profile, and low profile actually mean.
Why round implants can still give you a natural teardrop shape.
How to talk to your surgeon about what you want without knowing all the technical terms.
Why bringing photos helps more than memorizing implant specifications.
The new Motiva implants and how they're different. -Why board-certified plastic surgeons take specific measurements you can't do yourself.
Subscribe to Lipstick and Lipo on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or YouTube so you never miss an episode.
Connect with Dr. Smita
Website
Instagram
Connect with Dr. Amalfi
Website
Instagram
Filler gets a lot of attention and not always for the right reasons. Dr. Ashley Amalfi and Dr. Smita Ramanadham, who actually use filler themselves, debunk the biggest myths, explain why you only notice the bad ones, and reveal what good filler should actually look like (hint: you shouldn't be able to tell).
What You'll Learn:
Why you're only scared of filler because you notice the bad ones.
The truth about filler "migration" (spoiler: it doesn't move).
How to avoid duck lips and what causes them.
Why fillers don't actually "lift" despite what companies teach.
What pillow face really is and how to avoid it.
The importance of going to board-certified professionals.
How both doctors use filler themselves for natural results.
Subscribe to Lipstick and Lipo on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or YouTube so you never miss an episode. Drop your filler questions on our Instagram page we'll answer them in a future episode!
Connect with Dr. Smita
Website
Instagram
Connect with Dr. Amalfi
Website
Instagram
"Aging gracefully" - you hear it every day, but what does it actually mean?
We explain why doing nothing isn't graceful aging, and share the timeline of what you should be doing in your 20s, 30s, 40s, and beyond to look your best at every age.
What You'll Learn:
Why "aging gracefully" doesn't mean avoiding all procedures or treatments.
The decade-by-decade breakdown of what to focus on (20s through 50s+).
When to start retinol, Botox, fillers, and surgical procedures.
Why medical-grade skincare isn't a scam and the science behind it.
How to address aging without looking overdone or unnatural.
The dental hygiene analogy for skincare maintenance that changes everything.
Send us a message on Instagram and let us know what's been your aging game-changer so far?
Connect with Dr. Smita
Website
Instagram
Connect with Dr. Amalfi
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Instagram



