5 Codes Podcast

Cameron Chesnut

The 5 Codes podcast is hosted by Dr. Cameron Chesnut, a double board–certified physician and practicing facial plastic surgeon with a deep focus on regenerative medicine, functional health, and long-term human performance. Working at the intersection of performance and medicine, Dr. Chesnut brings a unique, practical perspective shaped by years of experience with high performers from around the world.   Despite disciplined lifestyles, advanced health practices, and even cutting-edge biohacks, many driven individuals still feel a disconnect between how they look, how they feel, and how they perform. The 5 Codes exists to bridge that gap.   Each episode explores the principles and tools that help people perform, move, look, feel, and connect as the most optimized version of themselves. Topics include longevity, regenerative medicine, metabolic health, recovery, aesthetics, and personal discipline - approached through a grounded, strategic lens focused on real-world application.   Designed for those who take responsibility for their health and believe their next level can be built intentionally, The 5 Codes is a guide to preserving your prime and optimizing performance in every dimension of life.

  1. 5d ago ·  Video

    EP 21: What Happens to Filler After a Decade? | OR DIARIES

    In this episode, I share a rare and revealing case: a patient I've followed for ten years, with over twenty sets of high-quality photos documenting her natural progression from filler to full surgical rejuvenation. Through her story, I break down what actually happens to hyaluronic acid filler over time - including uncomfortable truths that challenge some long-held assumptions in our field: that filler doesn't just sit still, that dissolution doesn't make it disappear, and that "poor placement" isn't always the explanation when filler signatures show up years later. Getting to directly observe this filler during her surgery gave me some of the most valuable, real-time data I've encountered, and it reframes how I think about managing prior filler in my surgical patients going forward. CONNECT WITH HOST  Website: https://5c.co/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chesnut.md/  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@chesnutMD  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cameron-chesnut-a6910baa/  WAYS TO WATCH/LISTEN  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@5CodesPodcast  Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1FZ7vpmq21iA1noPcFhixb?si=992ef6c8d859463f  Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/5-codes-podcast/id1866214238  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/5codespodcast/   TIMESTAMPS  00:00 - Intro 00:12 - Today's Case Setup 00:31 - Meet the Patient 01:03 - A Decade of Photos 01:31 - Filler Made Her Look Better 02:07 - Still Wanted Surgery 02:20 - Watching the Filler Signature Emerge 03:16 - Debunking "Poor Placement" 04:53 - Surgical Journal Entries 05:37 - What Surgery Revealed 06:52 - A Pattern Across Patients 09:09 - Candidate for Surgery at 40? 10:01 - The Dissolution Myth 11:22 - Managing Old Filler in Surgery 13:22 - Old Filler vs. New Anatomy 14:03 - Does Filler Move Over Time? 16:52 - Before & After Photos Coming 18:07 - Closing Thoughts ABOUT HOST  Dr. Cameron Chesnut is the host of the 5 Codes Podcast and the founder of 5C, where he leads a team dedicated to integrative cosmetic surgery, regenerative medicine, and functional health. An internationally recognized facial plastic surgeon, Dr. Chesnut is known for producing natural, refined results that enhance rather than alter one’s appearance. His approach blends surgical precision with biological optimization and disciplined restraint, drawing patients from around the world who value excellence, longevity, and holistic care. On the 5 Codes Podcast, Dr. Chesnut uncovers the mindsets and evidence-backed strategies he lives by, helping high performers perform better, recover smarter, and feel their best in every area of life.  DISCLAIMER  The views shared on this podcast are my own and are not associated with, affiliated with, or representative of my clinical teaching role at the University of Washington School of Medicine. This content is for general educational purposes only and should not be considered individualized medical advice.

  2. Jun 23

    EP 20: Marriage, Medicine & Everything In Between | Aubree Chesnut, PA-C

    In this episode, I sit down with my wife, Aubree, for a candid and fun conversation answering your most requested questions. We share the story of how we met, what we've learned through marriage and parenthood, our perspectives on health, beauty, and family life, and the daily habits that help keep us connected and growing together. From relationship advice and parenting lessons to rapid-fire questions and behind-the-scenes stories, this episode offers an authentic look into our life beyond the clinic. Whether you're looking for practical insights, a few laughs, or simply want to get to know us better, this conversation is packed with honest reflections and memorable moments. CONNECT WITH AUBREE CHESNUT Website: https://clinic5c.com/providers/aubree-chesnut Non-Surgical Cosmetics: https://clinic5c.com/contact/non-surgical-form   CONNECT WITH HOST  Website: https://clinic5c.com/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chesnut.md/  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@chesnutMD  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cameron-chesnut-a6910baa/    WAYS TO WATCH/LISTEN  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@5CodesPodcast  Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1FZ7vpmq21iA1noPcFhixb?si=992ef6c8d859463f  Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/5-codes-podcast/id1866214238  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/5codespodcast/    TIMESTAMPS  00:00 - Intro 02:18 - How It All Started 08:45 - Marriage Through Medicine 28:12 - Parenting and Family Life 48:38 - Being Married to a Facial Plastic Surgeon 58:20 - Health, Fitness, and Lifestyle 1:04:36 - Rapid Fire 1:13:52 - A Message to Our Kids 1:17:09 - Outro   ABOUT HOST  Dr. Cameron Chesnut is the host of the 5 Codes podcast and the founder of Clinic 5C, where he leads a team dedicated to integrative cosmetic surgery, regenerative medicine, and functional health. An internationally recognized facial plastic surgeon, Dr. Chesnut is known for producing natural, refined results that enhance rather than alter one’s appearance. His approach blends surgical precision with biological optimization and disciplined restraint, drawing patients from around the world who value excellence, longevity, and holistic care. On 5 Codes, Dr. Chesnut uncovers the mindsets and evidence-backed strategies he lives by, helping high performers perform better, recover smarter, and feel their best in every area of life.    DISCLAIMER  The views shared on this podcast are my own and are not associated with, affiliated with, or representative of my clinical teaching role at the University of Washington School of Medicine. This content is for general educational purposes only and should not be considered individualized medical advice.

  3. Jun 16

    EP 19: The Patient I Almost Refused to Operate On | OR DIARIES

    In this episode, I explore one of the most important and often overlooked factors in aesthetic surgery: the relationship between surgeon and patient. Through a personal story about a patient I initially declined to operate on, I break down how expectations, recovery readiness, trust, communication, and long-term alignment can ultimately determine the success of a facial rejuvenation journey. CONNECT WITH HOST  Website: https://clinic5c.com/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chesnut.md/  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@chesnutMD  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cameron-chesnut-a6910baa/  WAYS TO WATCH/LISTEN  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@5CodesPodcast  Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1FZ7vpmq21iA1noPcFhixb?si=992ef6c8d859463f  Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/5-codes-podcast/id1866214238  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/5codespodcast/   TIMESTAMPS  00:00 - Intro  00:34 - The Importance of Relationships  01:08 - My Consultation Process  02:50 - What Happens During a Patient's First Consultation  04:42 - The Patient's Second Consultation  08:34 - Bedside Manner vs. Reputation  11:00 - Why They Don't Need to Be Mutually Exclusive  13:15 - Outro ABOUT HOST  Dr. Cameron Chesnut is the host of the Five Codes podcast and the founder of Clinic 5C, where he leads a team dedicated to integrative cosmetic surgery, regenerative medicine, and functional health. An internationally recognized facial plastic surgeon, Dr. Chesnut is known for producing natural, refined results that enhance rather than alter one’s appearance. His approach blends surgical precision with biological optimization and disciplined restraint, drawing patients from around the world who value excellence, longevity, and holistic care. On Five Codes, Dr. Chesnut uncovers the mindsets and evidence-backed strategies he lives by, helping high performers perform better, recover smarter, and feel their best in every area of life.  DISCLAIMER  The views shared on this podcast are my own and are not associated with, affiliated with, or representative of my clinical teaching role at the University of Washington School of Medicine. This content is for general educational purposes only and should not be considered individualized medical advice.

  4. Jun 9

    EP 18: How Surgery Triggers Inflammation and Healing | DEEP FOCUS

    In this episode, I explore a little-known biological pathway that may have a major impact on surgical recovery: DAMPs, or damage-associated molecular patterns. These molecular signals help the body recognize injury and initiate healing, but they also influence inflammation, nervous system stress, recovery timelines, and overall resilience after surgery. We dive into how surgical technique, tissue handling, heat-based devices, and anesthesia can affect these signaling pathways, as well as why strategies like exercise, sauna, preoperative conditioning, and metabolic health may improve recovery outcomes. I also share how a deeper understanding of DAMPs has changed aspects of my own surgical practice and discuss the fascinating connection between inflammation, HRV, brain health, healing, and performance. If you're interested in facial surgery, longevity, recovery optimization, or the science of healing, this episode offers a unique perspective on what happens beneath the surface after an operation. CONNECT WITH HOST  Website: https://clinic5c.com/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chesnut.md/  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@chesnutMD  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cameron-chesnut-a6910baa/  WAYS TO WATCH/LISTEN  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@5CodesPodcast  Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1FZ7vpmq21iA1noPcFhixb?si=992ef6c8d859463f  Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/5-codes-podcast/id1866214238  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/5codespodcast/   TIMESTAMPS  00:00 - Intro 03:24 - DAMP’s 06:37 - Minimally Invasive Access Points 09:04 - Tissue Handling 10:49 - Exercise and Inflammation 13:29 - BDNF 15:26 - Protecting Peripheral Nerves 16:32 - Heat Shock Proteins 19:13 - How My Surgical Process Has Changed 24:50 - 4 Takeaways 27:49 - Outro ABOUT HOST  Dr. Cameron Chesnut is the host of the Five Codes podcast and the founder of Clinic 5C, where he leads a team dedicated to integrative cosmetic surgery, regenerative medicine, and functional health. An internationally recognized facial plastic surgeon, Dr. Chesnut is known for producing natural, refined results that enhance rather than alter one’s appearance. His approach blends surgical precision with biological optimization and disciplined restraint, drawing patients from around the world who value excellence, longevity, and holistic care. On Five Codes, Dr. Chesnut uncovers the mindsets and evidence-backed strategies he lives by, helping high performers perform better, recover smarter, and feel their best in every area of life.  DISCLAIMER  The views shared on this podcast are my own and are not associated with, affiliated with, or representative of my clinical teaching role at the University of Washington School of Medicine. This content is for general educational purposes only and should not be considered individualized medical advice.

  5. Jun 2

    EP 17: Maintaining Eye Character | OR DIARIES

    In this episode, I explore a question that sits at the heart of aesthetic medicine: what makes someone look like themselves? Using a fascinating patient case involving a former model and actress, I break down why some features commonly labeled as "flaws" are actually defining characteristics that create identity, attractiveness, and recognition. We dive into facial aging, eye aesthetics, ptosis, scleral show, eyelid surgery, volume loss, and the difference between rejuvenation and transformation. I also discuss the cognitive traps that can lead practitioners to overcorrect natural features, why preserving character matters more than chasing perfection, and how the most successful aesthetic outcomes often come from restoring what was there rather than creating something new. A fascinating look at facial identity, beauty, aging, and the art of natural facial rejuvenation. CONNECT WITH HOST  Website: https://clinic5c.com/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chesnut.md/  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@chesnutMD  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cameron-chesnut-a6910baa/  WAYS TO WATCH/LISTEN  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@5CodesPodcast  Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1FZ7vpmq21iA1noPcFhixb?si=992ef6c8d859463f  Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/5-codes-podcast/id1866214238  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/5codespodcast/   TIMESTAMPS  00:00 - Intro 00:45 - Patient Story 01:38 - Sydney Sweeney's Eyes Explained 02:35 - Why I'm Not Trying to "Fix" Her Eyes 05:47 - Another Patient Example 07:46 - My Approach to Aesthetic Assessment 09:12 - Nasolabial Fold Example 10:56 - Outro ABOUT HOST  Dr. Cameron Chesnut is the host of the Five Codes podcast and the founder of Clinic 5C, where he leads a team dedicated to integrative cosmetic surgery, regenerative medicine, and functional health. An internationally recognized facial plastic surgeon, Dr. Chesnut is known for producing natural, refined results that enhance rather than alter one’s appearance. His approach blends surgical precision with biological optimization and disciplined restraint, drawing patients from around the world who value excellence, longevity, and holistic care. On Five Codes, Dr. Chesnut uncovers the mindsets and evidence-backed strategies he lives by, helping high performers perform better, recover smarter, and feel their best in every area of life.  DISCLAIMER  The views shared on this podcast are my own and are not associated with, affiliated with, or representative of my clinical teaching role at the University of Washington School of Medicine. This content is for general educational purposes only and should not be considered individualized medical advice.

  6. May 26

    EP 16: Why Optimal Health Starts with Root Cause Medicine | Leah Streich PA-C

    In this episode, Leah Streich, PA - Dr. Chesnut’s personal medical provider - breaks down the hidden drivers behind fatigue, hormone imbalance, poor recovery, metabolic dysfunction, and why so many people still struggle despite “normal” lab work. We explore GLP-1 medications, hormones, birth control, toxin exposure, advanced blood testing, genetics, methylation, supplementation, blood pressure, and the role personalized medicine plays in optimizing health, body composition, and longevity. If you want a clearer, evidence-based perspective on functional medicine, hormone optimization, metabolic health, detoxification, and the biggest mistakes people make when trying to improve their health, this episode delivers. CONNECT WITH LEAH STREICH Website: https://clinic5c.com/providers/leah-streich Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leahstreichpac/   CONNECT WITH HOST  Website: https://clinic5c.com/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chesnut.md/  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@chesnutMD  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cameron-chesnut-a6910baa/    WAYS TO WATCH/LISTEN  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@5CodesPodcast  Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1FZ7vpmq21iA1noPcFhixb?si=992ef6c8d859463f  Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/5-codes-podcast/id1866214238  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/5codespodcast/    TIMESTAMPS  00:00 - Intro  03:07 - Dr. Chesnut’s Functional Medicine Story  06:54 - Key Areas That Could Be Improved in People  08:37 - Gut Health  14:17 - Toxins  16:22 - Detoxification  22:02 - Endocrine Disruptors  31:30 - Microplastics  34:31 - Hormones  51:24 - GLP-1s  1:03:25 - What Is One Thing You Hope Everyone Knows?  1:07:09 - If You Could Put One Thing in the Water What Would It Be?  1:08:57 - What Should People Stop Doing?  1:11:16 - Types of Hormone Replacement  1:15:14 - Birth Control  1:17:22 - Pre Operative Nutrition  1:20:20 - Fasting  1:25:00 - Perpetual Birth Control (IUD)  1:26:31 - Alcohol  1:30:22 - Outro   ABOUT HOST  Dr. Cameron Chesnut is the host of the 5 Codes podcast and the founder of Clinic 5C, where he leads a team dedicated to integrative cosmetic surgery, regenerative medicine, and functional health. An internationally recognized facial plastic surgeon, Dr. Chesnut is known for producing natural, refined results that enhance rather than alter one’s appearance. His approach blends surgical precision with biological optimization and disciplined restraint, drawing patients from around the world who value excellence, longevity, and holistic care. On 5 Codes, Dr. Chesnut uncovers the mindsets and evidence-backed strategies he lives by, helping high performers perform better, recover smarter, and feel their best in every area of life.    DISCLAIMER  The views shared on this podcast are my own and are not associated with, affiliated with, or representative of my clinical teaching role at the University of Washington School of Medicine. This content is for general educational purposes only and should not be considered individualized medical advice.

  7. May 19

    EP 15: Why Choosing The Right Support Person Matters | OR DIARIES

    In this episode, I explore the hidden psychology that can unfold around major decisions, especially when identity, appearance, and social dynamics collide. Using a real patient story, I break down the cognitive biases that shape how people justify choices, project insecurities, and subtly influence those around them during vulnerable moments. We dive into cognitive dissonance, choice-supportive bias, emotional sabotage, and the social forces that quietly impact confidence, relationships, and decision-making. A fascinating look at human behavior through the lens of aesthetic medicine, emotional intelligence, and self-awareness. CONNECT WITH HOST  Website: https://clinic5c.com/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chesnut.md/  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@chesnutMD  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cameron-chesnut-a6910baa/  WAYS TO WATCH/LISTEN  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@5CodesPodcast  Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1FZ7vpmq21iA1noPcFhixb?si=992ef6c8d859463f  Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/5-codes-podcast/id1866214238  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/5codespodcast/   TIMESTAMPS  00:00 - Intro  01:58 - Today’s Patient  05:13 - Reducing Cognitive Dissonance  06:02 - Choice-Supportive Bias  06:38 - Social Comparison Threat  07:15 - Projection  07:45 - Confirmation Bias  08:17 - The Sour Grapes Effect  08:45 - Outro ABOUT HOST  Dr. Cameron Chesnut is the host of the Five Codes podcast and the founder of Clinic 5C, where he leads a team dedicated to integrative cosmetic surgery, regenerative medicine, and functional health. An internationally recognized facial plastic surgeon, Dr. Chesnut is known for producing natural, refined results that enhance rather than alter one’s appearance. His approach blends surgical precision with biological optimization and disciplined restraint, drawing patients from around the world who value excellence, longevity, and holistic care. On Five Codes, Dr. Chesnut uncovers the mindsets and evidence-backed strategies he lives by, helping high performers perform better, recover smarter, and feel their best in every area of life.  DISCLAIMER  The views shared on this podcast are my own and are not associated with, affiliated with, or representative of my clinical teaching role at the University of Washington School of Medicine. This content is for general educational purposes only and should not be considered individualized medical advice.

  8. May 12

    EP 14: How I Protect the Brain During Surgery (My Anesthesia Protocol) | DEEP FOCUS

    What if surgery didn’t have to come at the cost of your brain, recovery, or long-term performance? In this episode, we break down an anesthesia and pain management protocol designed to protect neurocognition, minimize risk, and optimize recovery - without relying on opioids, benzodiazepines, or routine general anesthesia. You’ll learn how a more intentional, physiology-first approach can improve outcomes, reduce side effects, and align surgical care with long-term health instead of short-term convenience. CONNECT WITH HOST  Website: https://clinic5c.com/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chesnut.md/  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@chesnutMD  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cameron-chesnut-a6910baa/  WAYS TO WATCH/LISTEN  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@5CodesPodcast  Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1FZ7vpmq21iA1noPcFhixb?si=992ef6c8d859463f  Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/5-codes-podcast/id1866214238  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/5codespodcast/   TIMESTAMPS  00:00 - Intro  02:27 - Neuro Inflammation  05:48 - Benzodiazepines And Opioids  06:48 - Dexmedetomidine  12:19 - Ketamine  14:46 - Propofol  17:38 - Long-Acting Local Anesthesia  18:40 - Suzetrigine  19:31 - Caffeine  20:32 - PONV (Post-Operative Nausea And Vomiting)  21:30 - Post-Operative Protocol  22:57 - Hypercapnic Tolerance  25:05 - Sunlight Exposure  28:03 - Outro ABOUT HOST  Dr. Cameron Chesnut is the host of the Five Codes podcast and the founder of Clinic 5C, where he leads a team dedicated to integrative cosmetic surgery, regenerative medicine, and functional health. An internationally recognized facial plastic surgeon, Dr. Chesnut is known for producing natural, refined results that enhance rather than alter one’s appearance. His approach blends surgical precision with biological optimization and disciplined restraint, drawing patients from around the world who value excellence, longevity, and holistic care. On Five Codes, Dr. Chesnut uncovers the mindsets and evidence-backed strategies he lives by, helping high performers perform better, recover smarter, and feel their best in every area of life.  DISCLAIMER  The views shared on this podcast are my own and are not associated with, affiliated with, or representative of my clinical teaching role at the University of Washington School of Medicine. This content is for general educational purposes only and should not be considered individualized medical advice.

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
9 Ratings

About

The 5 Codes podcast is hosted by Dr. Cameron Chesnut, a double board–certified physician and practicing facial plastic surgeon with a deep focus on regenerative medicine, functional health, and long-term human performance. Working at the intersection of performance and medicine, Dr. Chesnut brings a unique, practical perspective shaped by years of experience with high performers from around the world.   Despite disciplined lifestyles, advanced health practices, and even cutting-edge biohacks, many driven individuals still feel a disconnect between how they look, how they feel, and how they perform. The 5 Codes exists to bridge that gap.   Each episode explores the principles and tools that help people perform, move, look, feel, and connect as the most optimized version of themselves. Topics include longevity, regenerative medicine, metabolic health, recovery, aesthetics, and personal discipline - approached through a grounded, strategic lens focused on real-world application.   Designed for those who take responsibility for their health and believe their next level can be built intentionally, The 5 Codes is a guide to preserving your prime and optimizing performance in every dimension of life.

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