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, the 12x winner of the San Diego’s Best Union-Tribune Readers Poll, and the 2025 winner of Best Cosmetic Surgery Group in San Diego Magazine’s Best of San Diego Awards. 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 kind bedside manner, commitment to safety, and beautiful aesthetic surgery results.  Dr. Brahme is a past president of the San Diego Plastic Surgery Society and a member of both the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) and The Aesthetic Society (formerly ASAPS). John Smoot, MD, Plastic Surgeon: During his 30+ years as a board certified plastic surgeon in San Diego, Dr. John Smoot has earned a reputation for providing excellent care & beautiful cosmetic surgery results. With an extraordinary depth of skill and experience in plastic surgery, he well-known for advanced scar-reducing techniques with breast lift surgery and the highly effective internal bra technique for revision breast surgery.  Dr. Smoot is board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and served as Chief of Plastic Surgery at Scripps Memorial Hospital La Jolla, where he is also on staff. He’s a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, and the California Society of Plastic Surgeons. Hector Salazar-Reyes, MD, Plastic Surgeon: As a board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Hector Salazar-Reyes has a passion and respect for the field of cosmetic surgery and is well-regarded known for his exceptional patient care. Dr. Salazar completed his general and plastic surgery residencies at the world-renowned Houston Methodist Hospital, where the first silicone breast implants were developed. During this time, Dr. Salazar served as chief resident in both specialties and was recognized with service and most professional resident awards from Houston Methodist Hospital. He is proud to be certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and the Board of Plastic Surgery of Mexico—and to be a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons (FACS).  Luke Swistun, MD, Plastic Surgeon: Dr. Luke Swistun is a board-certified plastic surgeon with a background in visual arts and medical military service. He’s known for his artistic approach to plastic surgery and for the close, supportive relationship he forms with every person he treats. He is known nationally and internationally for his expertise in breast implant removal and his compassionate approach to patients experiencing breast implant illness. Kiersten Riedler, MD, Facial Plastic Surgeon: San Diego native Dr. Riedler brings dedication to all she does here at La Jolla Cosmetic Surgery Centre. Double board certified in otolaryngology – head and neck surgery by the American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS) and in facial plastic and reconstructive surgery by the American Board of Facial Plastic Surgery, she prioritizes communication, trust, and building relationships with everyone she treats.  Diana Breister-Ghosh, MD, Plastic Surgeon: A board-certified plastic surgeon and San Diego native, Dr. Breister Ghosh delivers exceptional results and care to local women and men. She is known for the personal relationships she builds with her patients and her work to empower women through confidence-building plastic surgery.Though skilled at several types of procedures, she is most known for excellence in performing face and neck lifts, eyelid surgery, feminine rejuvenation, breast aug

  1. 1D AGO

    Plastic Surgery Doesn’t End When the Procedure is Over

    Surgery doesn’t end when the procedure is over—and that’s the part most people don’t hear enough about. San Diego plastic surgeon Dr. Hector Salazar explains why what happens after can be just as important as the surgery itself. Follow-up visits are a critical part of healing safely and confidently, not just a formality. He walks through what to expect during recovery, why open communication with your surgeon matters, and which warning signs should never be brushed off.  Dr. Salazar shares how to choose the right surgeon, from board certification and hospital privileges to the years of training required to manage complications if they arise. He explains why not every provider offering cosmetic surgery has the same level of expertise and why safety should always come before cost. From recovery houses and local support to the realities of medical tourism, Dr. Salazar emphasizes the importance of having a real safety net in place, because feeling supported shouldn’t stop once surgery is over. Links Plastic Surgery Practice, After Outpatient Cosmetic Surgery, They Wound Up in the Hospital or Alone at a Recovery House NBC News, When a cosmetic surgery chain arrived, lawsuits alleging shoddy care followed Learn more about patient safety Read more about San Diego plastic surgeon Dr. Hector Salazar-Reyes Listen to our previous episode, What NOT To Do During Recovery After Plastic Surgery Learn about the best hotels in San Diego if you’re considering traveling to see Dr. Salazar Learn from the talented plastic surgeons inside La Jolla Cosmetic Surgery Centre, the 12x winner of the San Diego’s Best Union-Tribune Readers Poll, global winner of the 2020 MyFaceMyBody Best Cosmetic/Plastic Surgery Practice, and the 2025 winner of Best Cosmetic Surgery Group in San Diego Magazine’s Best of San Diego Awards. Join hostess Monique Ramsey as she takes you inside LJCSC, 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 Surgery Centre 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 @LaJollaCosmeticSurgeryCentre The La Jolla Cosmetic Surgery Podcast is a production of The Axis: theaxis.io  Theme music: Busy People, SOOP

    39 min
  2. FEB 10

    The Plastic Surgery Recovery Rules You Can’t Ignore

    You get a full pre-op booklet and a nurse walks you through every detail, but when surgery day is getting close, it’s easy for things to go in one ear and out the other. To help make sense of it all, Jocelyn, one of our trusted LVNs, walks through the parts patients tend to skim: stopping certain meds, what anesthesia does to your body, why you need a responsible adult after surgery, and how simple things like pets, sleep position, and meal prep can make or break your recovery. You’ll also learn about the emotional side of it all—how nerves and excitement show up together, why asking questions matters, and how being prepared helps you feel calmer, safer, and more confident heading into surgery and healing. Links Read more about Jocelyn CNN, Man loses hands and feet after dog-related infection Hear 360 lipo patient Amie’s smart recovery tips on How Amie Got The Body Of Her 20’s Back (At 40-Something) Check our our plastic surgery recovery guide Learn from the talented plastic surgeons inside La Jolla Cosmetic Surgery Centre, the 12x winner of the San Diego’s Best Union-Tribune Readers Poll, global winner of the 2020 MyFaceMyBody Best Cosmetic/Plastic Surgery Practice, and the 2025 winner of Best Cosmetic Surgery Group in San Diego Magazine’s Best of San Diego Awards. Join hostess Monique Ramsey as she takes you inside LJCSC, 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 Surgery Centre 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 @LaJollaCosmeticSurgeryCentre The La Jolla Cosmetic Surgery Podcast is a production of The Axis: theaxis.io  Theme music: Busy People, SOOP

    35 min
  3. FEB 3

    Meet Jocelyn, Plastic Surgery Clinical Nurse

    Meet Jocelyn, a clinical nurse at La Jolla Cosmetic Surgery Centre who helps guide patients through surgery and recovery. With more than 16 years of experience, Jocelyn has a calming, confident presence that instantly puts people at ease. From pre-op prep to post-op check-ins, she’s right there making sure you feel safe, supported, and truly heard. Before joining LJCSC, she worked in compliance overseeing dozens of clinics, but she quickly realized her heart belongs at the bedside, building real connections with patients during some of their most vulnerable moments. Jocelyn loves being part of the emotional side of transformation just as much as the physical, and she believes great care starts with trust, communication, and a little bit of laughter along the way. Links Read more about Jocelyn Learn from the talented plastic surgeons inside La Jolla Cosmetic Surgery Centre, the 12x winner of the San Diego’s Best Union-Tribune Readers Poll, global winner of the 2020 MyFaceMyBody Best Cosmetic/Plastic Surgery Practice, and the 2025 winner of Best Cosmetic Surgery Group in San Diego Magazine’s Best of San Diego Awards. Join hostess Monique Ramsey as she takes you inside LJCSC, 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 Surgery Centre 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 @LaJollaCosmeticSurgeryCentre The La Jolla Cosmetic Surgery Podcast is a production of The Axis: theaxis.io  Theme music: Busy People, SOOP

    25 min
  4. JAN 27

    Are Motiva Breast Implants Worth the Hype? A Female Plastic Surgeon’s Opinion

    Are Motiva breast implants living up to the hype? When San Diego plastic surgeon Dr. Diana Breister first started using them, they were brand new to her. Now that they’ve become part of her regular go-to, she’s back to share the results. She talks about what makes Motiva implants different, from their softer, more natural feel to the innovative Monobloc technology that helps them move and settle more like real breast tissue. Hear how patients are responding so far, how she chooses between Motiva’s Round and Ergonomix shapes to get the right look, and why personalization matters so much in breast augmentation. Links Learn more about breast augmentation Meet La Jolla plastic surgeon Dr. Diana Breister Book a consultation with Dr. Breister to learn more about Motiva Learn from the talented plastic surgeons inside La Jolla Cosmetic Surgery Centre, the 12x winner of the San Diego’s Best Union-Tribune Readers Poll, global winner of the 2020 MyFaceMyBody Best Cosmetic/Plastic Surgery Practice, and the 2025 winner of Best Cosmetic Surgery Group in San Diego Magazine’s Best of San Diego Awards. Join hostess Monique Ramsey as she takes you inside LJCSC, 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 Surgery Centre 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 @LaJollaCosmeticSurgeryCentre The La Jolla Cosmetic Surgery Podcast is a production of The Axis: theaxis.io Theme music: Busy People, SOOP

    25 min
  5. JAN 20

    Was the Filler We’ve Been Waiting for Here All Along?

    Fat might not be the first thing you think of when it comes to looking younger, but in the world of facial rejuvenation, it’s basically gold. According to Dr. Johan Brahme, it’s one of the most powerful tools we have for restoring youthful volume in a way that looks soft, natural, and unmistakably you. He explains what areas of your body he takes the fat from, why your own fat is such a valuable resource, and how modern techniques have made fat transfer safer, more predictable, and longer lasting than ever.  He clears up some of the biggest misconceptions people have—what lasts, what doesn’t, and why the quality of the fat harvested matters more than you realize. Dr. Brahme also shares what decades of experience have taught him about achieving natural results, the science behind graft survival, and the small technical details that make a big difference in your outcome. Links View Dr. Brahme’s facial fat transfer before and after photos Meet San Diego plastic surgeon Dr. Johan Brahme Schedule a meeting with Dr. Brahme’s patient coordinator to get started on your facial rejuvenation journey Learn more about facial fat transfer Learn from the talented plastic surgeons inside La Jolla Cosmetic Surgery Centre, the 12x winner of the San Diego’s Best Union-Tribune Readers Poll, global winner of the 2020 MyFaceMyBody Best Cosmetic/Plastic Surgery Practice, and the 2025 winner of Best Cosmetic Surgery Group in San Diego Magazine’s Best of San Diego Awards. Join hostess Monique Ramsey as she takes you inside LJCSC, 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 Surgery Centre 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 @LaJollaCosmeticSurgeryCentre The La Jolla Cosmetic Surgery Podcast is a production of The Axis: theaxis.io  Theme music: Busy People, SOOP

    27 min
  6. JAN 13

    Here’s Why Everyone’s Asking for the Deep Plane Facelift

    The deep plane facelift is quickly becoming one of the most sought-after procedures in facial rejuvenation—and for good reason. Unlike traditional facelifts, it repositions the deeper layers of the face, delivering natural-looking results that last a decade or longer. Facial plastic surgeon Dr. Kiersten Riedler explains the ins and outs of this technique, from who it’s best for to what recovery looks like. Men and women often see changes in both the lower face and neck, so Dr. Riedler almost always includes a neck lift for the most balanced results. She shares what to expect during recovery, including tips for keeping your head elevated, gentle skincare, and using makeup to conceal initial scars.  Links Book a free 15-to-30-minute complimentary phone call with Dr. Riedler’s patient coordinator Meet San Diego facial plastic surgeon Dr. Kiersten Riedler Learn more about facelift surgery Learn from the talented plastic surgeons inside La Jolla Cosmetic Surgery Centre, the 12x winner of the San Diego’s Best Union-Tribune Readers Poll, global winner of the 2020 MyFaceMyBody Best Cosmetic/Plastic Surgery Practice, and the 2025 winner of Best Cosmetic Surgery Group in San Diego Magazine’s Best of San Diego Awards. Join hostess Monique Ramsey as she takes you inside LJCSC, 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 Surgery Centre 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 @LaJollaCosmeticSurgeryCentre The La Jolla Cosmetic Surgery Podcast is a production of The Axis: theaxis.io  Theme music: Busy People, SOOP

    26 min
  7. JAN 6

    Reflections on 40 Years in Plastic Surgery and Service with Dr. John Smoot

    Nearly 40 years, thousands of patients, and a career that started unexpectedly in a National Guard medical unit—Dr. John Smoot’s story is full of the wisdom, wins, and lessons you only get from a lifetime in plastic surgery. Dr. Smoot looks back on how the field has transformed since he first scrubbed in, from evolving techniques to the rise of natural, proportionate results and the growing acceptance of cosmetic procedures. He shares what’s surprised him, what’s stayed the same, and what he believes is coming next as less invasive treatments continue to take over. Hear why he’s always chased improvement, how he balances artistry with science, and the traits that he believes every great surgeon has to develop.  Plus, he opens up about mentorship, the relationships that shaped his career, and the legacy he hopes to leave as he heads toward retirement. Links Meet San Diego plastic surgeon Dr. John Smoot Book a consultation with Dr. Smoot before he leaves Learn from the talented plastic surgeons inside La Jolla Cosmetic Surgery Centre, the 12x winner of the San Diego’s Best Union-Tribune Readers Poll, global winner of the 2020 MyFaceMyBody Best Cosmetic/Plastic Surgery Practice, and the 2025 winner of Best Cosmetic Surgery Group in San Diego Magazine’s Best of San Diego Awards. Join hostess Monique Ramsey as she takes you inside LJCSC, 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 Surgery Centre 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 @LaJollaCosmeticSurgeryCentre The La Jolla Cosmetic Surgery Podcast is a production of The Axis: theaxis.io  Theme music: Busy People, SOOP

    29 min
  8. 12/16/2025

    From the Bass Guitar to the OR with San Diego Plastic Surgeon Dr. Johan Brahme

    Who says plastic surgeons can’t rock out after hours? For Dr. Johan Brahme, music isn’t just a hobby—it’s part of how he approaches life and surgery. He shares how growing up in a musical family inspired him to play bass in multiple bands throughout his life, perform for communities like assisted living homes, and even bring music aboard the USS Midway. Hear about the surprising parallels between performing on stage and in the OR, and why he soundtracks surgeries from classical to heavy metal.  Dr. Brahme also opens up about his interest in archaeology, Swedish comfort food, and his ideal slow Saturday away from the OR and the amp. Links Meet San Diego plastic surgeon Dr. Johan Brahme Schedule a meeting with Dr. Brahme’s patient coordinator  Watch the trailer for Netflix’s Cave of Bones Learn from the talented plastic surgeons inside La Jolla Cosmetic Surgery Centre, the 12x winner of the San Diego’s Best Union-Tribune Readers Poll, global winner of the 2020 MyFaceMyBody Best Cosmetic/Plastic Surgery Practice, and the 2025 winner of Best Cosmetic Surgery Group in San Diego Magazine’s Best of San Diego Awards. Join hostess Monique Ramsey as she takes you inside LJCSC, 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 Surgery Centre 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 @LaJollaCosmeticSurgeryCentre The La Jolla Cosmetic Surgery Podcast is a production of The Axis: theaxis.io  Theme music: Busy People, SOOP

    23 min
5
out of 5
19 Ratings

About

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, the 12x winner of the San Diego’s Best Union-Tribune Readers Poll, and the 2025 winner of Best Cosmetic Surgery Group in San Diego Magazine’s Best of San Diego Awards. 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 kind bedside manner, commitment to safety, and beautiful aesthetic surgery results.  Dr. Brahme is a past president of the San Diego Plastic Surgery Society and a member of both the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) and The Aesthetic Society (formerly ASAPS). John Smoot, MD, Plastic Surgeon: During his 30+ years as a board certified plastic surgeon in San Diego, Dr. John Smoot has earned a reputation for providing excellent care & beautiful cosmetic surgery results. With an extraordinary depth of skill and experience in plastic surgery, he well-known for advanced scar-reducing techniques with breast lift surgery and the highly effective internal bra technique for revision breast surgery.  Dr. Smoot is board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and served as Chief of Plastic Surgery at Scripps Memorial Hospital La Jolla, where he is also on staff. He’s a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, and the California Society of Plastic Surgeons. Hector Salazar-Reyes, MD, Plastic Surgeon: As a board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Hector Salazar-Reyes has a passion and respect for the field of cosmetic surgery and is well-regarded known for his exceptional patient care. Dr. Salazar completed his general and plastic surgery residencies at the world-renowned Houston Methodist Hospital, where the first silicone breast implants were developed. During this time, Dr. Salazar served as chief resident in both specialties and was recognized with service and most professional resident awards from Houston Methodist Hospital. He is proud to be certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and the Board of Plastic Surgery of Mexico—and to be a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons (FACS).  Luke Swistun, MD, Plastic Surgeon: Dr. Luke Swistun is a board-certified plastic surgeon with a background in visual arts and medical military service. He’s known for his artistic approach to plastic surgery and for the close, supportive relationship he forms with every person he treats. He is known nationally and internationally for his expertise in breast implant removal and his compassionate approach to patients experiencing breast implant illness. Kiersten Riedler, MD, Facial Plastic Surgeon: San Diego native Dr. Riedler brings dedication to all she does here at La Jolla Cosmetic Surgery Centre. Double board certified in otolaryngology – head and neck surgery by the American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS) and in facial plastic and reconstructive surgery by the American Board of Facial Plastic Surgery, she prioritizes communication, trust, and building relationships with everyone she treats.  Diana Breister-Ghosh, MD, Plastic Surgeon: A board-certified plastic surgeon and San Diego native, Dr. Breister Ghosh delivers exceptional results and care to local women and men. She is known for the personal relationships she builds with her patients and her work to empower women through confidence-building plastic surgery.Though skilled at several types of procedures, she is most known for excellence in performing face and neck lifts, eyelid surgery, feminine rejuvenation, breast aug

More From The Axis

You Might Also Like