Lipstick & Lipo: Your Unfiltered Guide to Plastic Surgery

Dr. Smita Ramanadham and Dr. Ashley Amalfi
  • 1.0 (1)
  • Medicine

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!

  1. 6d ago

    Tummy tuck recovery - What's actually true vs the scary stories

    You've probably seen scary stories online about tummy tuck recovery people needing walkers, recliners, commodes. While some of these stories exist, they're usually the result of people going into surgery unprepared or with underlying health issues that weren't optimized. As board certified plastic surgeons, we're here to tell you that with proper preparation, tummy tuck recovery doesn't have to be complicated. In this episode, we break down what you actually need to prepare, what realistic recovery looks like, and how to set yourself up for success. From pre-surgery optimization to what you actually need to buy, we're giving you the honest truth. What you'll learn: How to optimize your health before surgery for the best outcome. Why stopping smoking, marijuana, and GLP-1s matters for healing. The ultra marathon analogy why recovery requires real preparation. What recovery equipment you actually need (spoiler: not much). Why early movement is crucial and walkers are unnecessary. The minimal shopping list: protein shakes, hydration, stool softeners, pillows. Why narcotics should be minimal and short-term. How nerve blocks can reduce your need for pain medication. We so appreciate you being with us every week. If you haven't already subscribed, we would appreciate it if you do. This helps more people find us and get true medical information. Connect with Dr. Smita Website Instagram Connect with Dr. Amalfi Website Instagram

    8 min

  2. May 28

    Addressing the sunscreen and retinol myth | Board certified surgeons explain the science

    Recently, a skincare expert claimed that SPF and retinol are harmful and should be avoided. As board certified plastic surgeons, we're respectfully disagreeing and breaking down the science behind why these two ingredients are non-negotiable for skin health. We discuss why sunscreen is your best defense against skin cancer and premature aging, how to wear it correctly, and why retinol is the only clinically proven ingredient that actually prevents and corrects wrinkles. Understanding the real science helps you make informed decisions about your skincare routine. What you'll learn: Why SPF is non-negotiable for skin cancer prevention. How much sunscreen you actually need to apply (and how often to reapply). Why UVA and UVB rays damage skin even on cloudy days. What retinol actually does (and doesn't do) to your skin. How retinol builds collagen instead of thinning skin. The difference between mineral and chemical sunscreens. Why prevention is better than chasing damage with procedures. How to use retinol safely without irritation. We so appreciate you being with us every week. If you haven't already subscribed, we would appreciate it if you do. This helps more people find us and get true medical information. Connect with Dr. Smita Website Instagram Connect with Dr. Amalfi Website Instagram

    9 min

  3. May 21

    Neck aging - What board certified plastic surgeons recommend

    Your neck is one of the first places to show aging, and most people start noticing changes in their 30s and 40s. From tech neck to vertical neck bands to loose skin, we're discussing why your neck ages faster than other parts of your body and what you can actually do about it. We cover the anatomy of why necks age first, what causes those vertical bands and horizontal lines, and the full spectrum of treatment options from preventive skincare to Botox to surgical neck lifts. Whether you're just starting to notice changes or you're ready to explore treatment options, this episode helps you understand what's happening and what works at different stages of aging. What you'll learn: Why your neck ages before your face (thinnest skin on your body). What tech neck is and how phone use accelerates aging. What causes vertical neck bands (those muscle lines people see). Non-surgical options that work: Botox, fillers, radiofrequency, ultrasound therapy. When you've reached the point where only surgery will work. If you haven't already subscribed, we would appreciate it if you do. This helps more people find us and get true medical information.   Dr. Smita Ramanadham Connect with Dr. Smita Website Instagram Connect with Dr. Amalfi Website Instagram

    9 min

  4. May 14

    Denise Richards' facelift - Are facelifts the new Botox?

    Denise Richards has been very open about her recent facelift. This week we are posing the question: are facelifts the new Botox? The fear about getting surgery has been slowly diminishing with the openness of Hollywood. And the honest truth is this is the best way to go if you want to see measurable results as you age. Fillers and Botox still have their place, but facelifts are the only way to see the results most people were trying to achieve with filler alone. This episode is for you if you have considered a facelift but have been a bit nervous or were told that someone could give you filler with similar results. What you'll learn: The reason that many injectors never offered surgery. Hint: they only have so much they can do. How the facelift landscape has changed - modern results are natural, not wind-blown. Why facelifts vs. injectables. Why you only want a board certified plastic surgeon doing this procedure. Where is the place for Botox and fillers. We so appreciate you being with us every week. If you haven't already subscribed, we would appreciate it if you do. This helps more people find us and get true medical information. Connect with Dr. Smita Website Instagram Connect with Dr. Amalfi Website Instagram

    7 min

  5. May 7

    Bethany Frankel's cupping accident - What's safe at home?

    Bethany Frankel recently made headlines after cutting herself with an at home cupping device she bought online. As board certified plastic surgeons, we're discussing what beauty treatments are actually safe to do at home and which ones you should never attempt without professional supervision. From DIY lasers and chemical peels to home Botox kits sold on Amazon, we're seeing people buy invasive treatments on social media that can cause serious harm.  We also cover what IS safe for home use and how often you actually need professional treatments. Understanding these boundaries helps you maintain your skin health safely without unnecessary risk. What you'll learn: The dangers of suction-based treatments can cause broken capillaries. Red flags when buying beauty devices online. Why unregulated products from Amazon or social media are dangerous. What home treatments ARE actually safe. How often you actually need professional treatments (seasonally is enough). Why individualized assessment matters for your skin. Your skin health matters, and it's not worth risking injury to save money on treatments that should be done by professionals. Make sure you're subscribed so you never miss expert guidance from board certified professionals. Dr. Smita Ramanadham Connect with Dr. Smita Website Instagram Connect with Dr. Amalfi Website Instagram

    8 min

  6. Apr 30

    GLP-1 weight loss - Are celebrities going too far?

    Award season has arrived, and celebrities are getting noticeably smaller. As board certified plastic surgeons and doctors, we're breaking down what's really happening with GLP-1 medications like Ozempic and Wegovy. These medications can be life-changing when used correctly for metabolic health, diabetes management, and treating obesity. But we're seeing a concerning trend of extreme weight loss among people who were already thin, raising questions about misuse and the return of unhealthy body standards. From nutrient deficiency to the slippery slope of disordered eating, we're discussing the difference between healthy and dangerous use of these medications. We also address what happens when people cycle on and off these drugs and the potential long-term consequences. What you'll learn: How GLP-1 medications work and their legitimate medical benefits. The difference between healthy and unhealthy use of weight loss drugs Warning signs of GLP-1 medication misuse. Why rapid weight loss can lead to hair loss, dental problems, and other health issues. The importance of nutrition and protein intake while on these medications. Why weight lifting matters to prevent muscle wasting. The concerning return to promoting extremely thin body types. These medications can be incredibly beneficial when used correctly under medical supervision. If this episode resonated with you, share it with someone who might benefit from understanding the difference between healthy and dangerous use. And make sure you're subscribed so you never miss important health conversations. Connect with Dr. Smita Website Instagram Connect with Dr. Amalfi Website Instagram

    7 min

  7. Apr 23

    Top breast implant questions 2026 | Board certified surgeons answer

    We received questions about breast implants and we're diving into your top concerns for 2026. From changing implant placement to surgeon expertise to costs, we're giving you the information you need. Can you switch from under the muscle to over the muscle? Is it normal for surgeons to only do one type of placement? What does replacing implants actually cost? We're addressing the questions that help you make informed decisions about your breast surgery journey. If you're considering breast implants or planning a revision, this episode gives you the framework for better conversations with your surgeon. What you'll learn: Whether you can change from under muscle to over muscle placement. When changing implant placement makes sense. Why revision surgery conversations are different from primary surgery. Is it a red flag if your surgeon only does things one way. How surgeons should continue learning and evolving techniques. What affects breast implant replacement costs. Why revision surgery costs more than primary surgery. Geographic and surgeon expertise factors in pricing. The importance of second opinions. Thank you for asking these questions. It not only helps other people but allows us to know more about what you're looking to learn. We would love to hear from you. What other topics are you interested in? DM us on Instagram.  Connect with Dr. Smita Website Instagram Connect with Dr. Amalfi Website Instagram

    11 min

  8. Apr 16

    The DNA of a Doctor | Dr. Smita Ramanadham's journey as a female plastic surgeon

    Big news - Dr. Smita is now a published author. Her book "The DNA of a Doctor: Upbringing Culture and Unbridled Ambition Curates Achievement" is available now on Amazon and wherever books are sold. This episode is different from our usual content. Dr. Amalfi interviews Dr. Smita about her journey writing this book, what inspired her to share her story, and why she felt it was important to be vulnerable about the challenges of being a female plastic surgeon in a male-dominated field. From imposter syndrome to navigating life as a first-generation American with immigrant parents, Smita opens up about the experiences that shaped her career. Whether you're a woman in a male-dominated field, a first-generation American, or someone navigating your own cultural battles, there's something in this book that will resonate with you. What you'll learn: What inspired Dr. Smita to write "The DNA of a Doctor". The challenges of being a female plastic surgeon in a male-dominated specialty. Navigating life as a first-generation American. How being a mentor shaped her decision to write the book. The vulnerable process of putting your story on paper. Dealing with imposter syndrome while writing. Why surrounding yourself with supportive people matters. The power of shared experiences among women in medicine. Congratulations to Dr. Smita on this incredible achievement. If her story resonates with you, grab your copy of "The DNA of a Doctor" link👇 : Dr. Smita's Book Connect with Dr. Smita Website Instagram Connect with Dr. Amalfi Website Instagram

    8 min
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About

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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