Scalpel and Skin

Dr.Algie LaBrasca & Mistica LaBrasca with BBNL Media
  • 5.0 (7)
  • Medicine

Scalpel and Skin is a plastic surgery, skin health, and aesthetics podcast hosted by siblings Dr. Algie LaBrasca, a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon, and Mistica LaBrasca, a cosmetic dermatology Physician Assistant.With more than 30 years of combined experience, they bring honest, educational, and unfiltered conversations to the world of plastic surgery and cosmetic dermatology.From Botox, fillers, lasers, and skincare to facelifts, med spas, patient safety, and the latest aesthetic trends, they break down what works, what doesn’t, what is worth the investment, and what is simply good marketing.Whether you are researching your first treatment, comparing surgical and nonsurgical options, or trying to find a provider you can trust, Scalpel and Skin gives you the information and perspective you need to make smarter decisions about your face, skin, body, and long-term aesthetic goals.

  1. 5d ago

    Aesthetic Horror Stories: Botched Fillers, Black Market Botox & Plastic Surgery Nightmares | EP 13

    🎃 It's Halloween on Scalpel & Skin—and these horror stories are REAL. This episode, Dr. Algie LaBrasca and Mistica LaBrasca trade the usual aesthetic talk for the things that genuinely scare them as medical professionals. Expect frightening complications, questionable treatment requests, bizarre surgical stories, and plenty of sibling banter. Also, yes—one of them is dressed as a banana. 👻 In this Halloween special, we discuss: A serious facial infection following filler injections at a party in someone's basementWhy black-market injectables and unqualified injectors are a major safety concernThe aesthetic trends that make a plastic surgeon say, “Absolutely not”Risky requests, from calf implants to cosmetic surgery in your 80sMedical tourism and the importance of choosing qualified providersWhy combining too many procedures into one operation can raise safety concernsOur “Trick or Terror” rapid-fire roundSome unforgettable—and genuinely wild—stories from the ER and operating roomWe talk about the difference between a treatment that sounds appealing online and one that makes sense for the right patient, in the right hands, with appropriate safety precautions. Because when it comes to aesthetic medicine, some things are scarier than Halloween. And stick around for the story involving a kitchen flashlight. You've been warned. 🍌 💬 Join the conversation: What's the biggest red flag you look for when choosing an aesthetic provider? And should Dr. Algie finally watch Hocus Pocus? Tell us in the comments! Subscribe to Scalpel & Skin for more honest conversations about aesthetics, skin, and surgery. This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for individualized medical advice. #ScalpelAndSkin #HalloweenSpecial #AestheticHorrorStories #PlasticSurgery #FillerSafety Follow Scalpel and Skin Instagram: @scalpelandskinpodcast TikTok: @scalpelandskinpodcast Facebook: Scalpel and Skin Podcast Send us the treatments, trends, or questions you want Dr. Algie and Mistica to break down next. This is Scalpel and Skin. Let’s go!

    Aesthetic Horror Stories: Botched Fillers, Black Market Botox & Plastic Surgery Nightmares | EP 13

  2. Oct 22

    Are Non-Surgical Facelifts Worth It? Ultherapy, RF Microneedling & More | EP 12

    Can non-surgical devices really lift your face—or are the results being oversold? In this episode of Scalpel and Skin, Dr. Algie LaBrasca and Mistica welcome Andrew Liscio, aesthetic medical professional, clinical educator, consultant, and host of the Aesthetically Speaking podcast, for an honest conversation about energy-based aesthetic treatments. They break down the difference between improving skin quality, creating a firmer appearance, and achieving the kind of lift that surgery can provide. From ultrasound and radiofrequency to RF microneedling and laser treatments, the conversation explores what these technologies are designed to do, who may be a good candidate, and why the device alone doesn’t determine the result. They also discuss treatment risks, the importance of provider experience, how expectations can get out of hand, and whether expensive treatments deliver enough value for the money. Then it’s time for case studies and a rapid-fire “Is It Worth It?” round. In this episode: Can non-surgical treatments give you a facelift-like result?Skin tightening vs. skin lifting: what’s the difference?Ultherapy and microfocused ultrasoundSofwave and ultrasound technologyMonopolar and bipolar radiofrequencyRF microneedling and the importance of safe treatment settingsMorpheus8, Genius, and newer RF microneedling devicesFaceTite, AccuTite, and RenuvionEndolift: what we know and what still needs more evidenceCan lasers actually tighten skin?Why patient selection and provider experience matterWhat to consider before spending thousands on a treatmentReal-world patient scenarios: devices, combination treatments, or surgery?The final “Is It Worth It?” verdictsThe biggest takeaway? A device can have a place without being right for every patient. Understanding its limitations, the evidence behind it, and the results you can realistically expect matters just as much as the technology itself. Scalpel and Skin brings together plastic surgery, cosmetic dermatology, and honest conversations about what aesthetic treatments are actually worth your time and money. Follow Andrew Liscio on Instagram and check out his Aesthetically Speaking podcast. Subscribe to Scalpel and Skin for more conversations about plastic surgery, skin health, aesthetic technology, and the trends worth questioning. This episode is for educational purposes only and is not individualized medical advice. Treatment suitability, outcomes, risks, and recovery vary by patient and procedure. #ScalpelAndSkin #NonSurgicalFacelift #SkinTightening #RFMicroneedling #AestheticMedicine Follow Andrew: @andrewliscio Follow Scalpel and Skin Instagram: @scalpelandskinpodcast TikTok: @scalpelandskinpodcast Facebook: Scalpel and Skin Podcast Send us the treatments, trends, or questions you want Dr. Algie and Mistica to break down next. This is Scalpel and Skin. Let’s go!

    Are Non-Surgical Facelifts Worth It? Ultherapy, RF Microneedling & More | EP 12

  3. Oct 15

    Is Medical-Grade Skincare Worth It? Vitamin C, Retinol & What Actually Works | EP 11

    Is medical-grade skincare really worth the money, or is it just marketing? In this episode of Scalpel and Skin, Mistica is joined by Skin Lab esthetician and fan-favorite co-host Melissa Janoski to break down what medical-grade skincare means, how to think about product claims, and which skincare products may be worth prioritizing. They discuss vitamin C, retinol, ingredient formulations, clinical studies, and the difference between building a skincare routine around your goals versus buying every product trending on social media. They also get into Sephora skincare culture, why teens don’t need complicated anti-aging routines, and how at-home skincare supports—but doesn’t replace—in-office treatments. Then it’s time for rapid fire: vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, pimple patches, pore strips, peptides, double cleansing, sheet masks, eye creams, collagen creams, expensive moisturizers, and the skincare trends they’d love to see disappear. In this episode: What does “medical-grade skincare” actually mean?Medical-grade skincare vs. drugstore and Sephora productsVitamin C and retinol: what are they used for?How to prioritize skincare when you’re on a budgetSkincare for tweens and teensCan skincare replace lasers and other in-office procedures?Why skin preparation matters before certain treatmentsDouble cleansing, eye cream, sheet masks, and more: worth it or skip it?Salmon sperm skincare and the importance of looking at the evidenceAs always, Mistica and Melissa bring their honest opinions, professional perspectives, and plenty of sibling-style teasing to the conversation. Scalpel and Skin is all about talking honestly about aesthetic treatments, skincare, and what may actually be worth your time and money. Subscribe for more conversations about skincare, cosmetic treatments, and the science behind the beauty trends. This episode is for educational purposes and is not a substitute for individualized medical advice. Skincare needs and treatment suitability vary from person to person. #ScalpelAndSkin #MedicalGradeSkincare #SkincareRoutine #VitaminC #Retinol Follow Melissa: @melissa.the.aesti Follow Scalpel and Skin Instagram: @scalpelandskinpodcast TikTok: @scalpelandskinpodcast Facebook: Scalpel and Skin Podcast Send us the treatments, trends, or questions you want Dr. Algie and Mistica to break down next. This is Scalpel and Skin. Let’s go!

    Is Medical-Grade Skincare Worth It? Vitamin C, Retinol & What Actually Works | EP 11

  4. Oct 8

    Are Esthetician Treatments Worth It? Facials, Chemical Peels, Dermaplaning & More | EP 10

    Are esthetician treatments actually worth it? Which facials and skin treatments are worth your money—and which ones aren't? In this special episode of Scalpel and Skin, Mistica Lebraska is joined by Melissa Janoski, the first official guest and co-host of the podcast. Melissa has worked alongside Mistica for years and brings 16 years of experience in the aesthetics industry to the conversation.  Together, they break down traditional esthetician treatments and newer aesthetic procedures, giving their honest take on what actually delivers results and what may not be worth the investment. They talk about facials, dermaplaning, microdermabrasion, chemical peels, Hydrafacials, skincare treatments, and newer esthetician procedures—and put them all through the Scalpel and Skin “Is It Worth It?” test. And yes… some of their opinions might make a few estheticians very unhappy. In this episode: • Are traditional facials worth it?  • What does a facial actually do?  • Dermaplaning  • Microdermabrasion  • Chemical peels  • Hydrafacials  • Newer esthetician treatments  • Which treatments actually improve the skin?  • Which treatments are more about relaxation?  • What treatments are worth the money?  • What treatments aren't worth it?  • Esthetician treatments vs. medical aesthetic treatments  • Mistica and Melissa's honest “Is It Worth It?” ratings Plus, plenty of sibling-style chaos—even though Dr. Algie is nowhere to be found. Because when it comes to aesthetic treatments, the question isn't just what can you do to your skin. Is it actually worth doing? #ScalpelAndSkin #Esthetician #Skincare #Facials #ChemicalPeels Follow Melissa: @melissa.the.aesti Follow Scalpel and Skin Instagram: @scalpelandskinpodcast TikTok: @scalpelandskinpodcast Facebook: Scalpel and Skin Podcast Send us the treatments, trends, or questions you want Dr. Algie and Mistica to break down next. This is Scalpel and Skin. Let’s go!

    Are Esthetician Treatments Worth It? Facials, Chemical Peels, Dermaplaning & More | EP 10

  5. Oct 1

    Are Tummy Tucks Worth It? Abdominal Contouring, Lipo 360, Recovery & More | EP 09

    Are tummy tucks actually worth it? What’s the difference between a mini and full tummy tuck? And when is liposuction—not a tummy tuck—the right choice? In Episode 9 of Scalpel and Skin, Dr. Algie Lebraska, a board-certified plastic surgeon, and Mystica Lebraska, a dermatology PA of 16 years, break down abdominal contouring and tummy tuck surgery from a surgeon’s and patient-care perspective.  They explain what actually happens during a tummy tuck, including muscle repair, excess skin removal, belly button reconstruction, liposuction, and abdominal contouring. They also discuss the differences between mini, full, extended, fleur-de-lis, and circumferential tummy tucks, plus what recovery can really be like.    The conversation also gets into lipo 360, CoolSculpting, RF microneedling, muscle-sculpting devices, diastasis recti, drains, and common misconceptions about body contouring—including whether these treatments are actually appropriate for the patient in front of you.   And, of course, they put abdominal contouring through the Scalpel and Skin “Is It Worth It?” test. In this episode: • What a tummy tuck actually does  • Tummy tuck vs. liposuction  • Mini vs. full tummy tuck  • Extended tummy tuck  • Fleur-de-lis tummy tuck  • Circumferential tummy tuck  • Muscle repair and diastasis recti  • Belly button reconstruction  • Tummy tuck recovery  • Lipo 360 and abdominal contouring  • CoolSculpting for the abdomen  • RF microneedling for loose abdominal skin  • Muscle-sculpting devices  • Tummy tuck drains  • Common tummy tuck misconceptions  • Choosing the right procedure for the right patient  • Is abdominal contouring worth it? Because when it comes to aesthetic procedures, it's not just about what you can do. It's about doing the right procedure for the right patient at the right time.  #ScalpelAndSkin #TummyTuck #AbdominalContouring #Lipo360 #PlasticSurgery  Follow Scalpel and Skin Instagram: @scalpelandskinpodcast TikTok: @scalpelandskinpodcast Facebook: Scalpel and Skin Podcast Send us the treatments, trends, or questions you want Dr. Algie and Mistica to break down next. This is Scalpel and Skin. Let’s go!

    Are Tummy Tucks Worth It? Abdominal Contouring, Lipo 360, Recovery & More | EP 09

  6. Sep 24

    Is Sculptra Worth It? Sculptra vs. Filler, Collagen, Risks & Results | EP 08

    In Episode 8 of Scalpel and Skin, Dr. Algie LaBrasca, a board-certified plastic surgeon, and his sister Mistica LaBrasca, a cosmetic dermatology Physician Assistant, break down one of their favorite collagen-stimulating treatments: Sculptra. Unlike traditional hyaluronic acid filler, Sculptra is a biostimulator designed to gradually stimulate collagen and elastin over time. That means the results aren't instant—and according to Mistica and Algie, this is definitely a treatment for people willing to play the long game. They look back at the history of Sculptra, including its early use for HIV-associated facial lipoatrophy, and explain how the treatment has evolved into a popular option for facial rejuvenation. They also get into where Sculptra works well, where it absolutely should not be injected, how long results may last, and why the final outcome can vary from patient to patient. They also talk about: • What is Sculptra and how does it work? • Is Sculptra a filler or a biostimulator? • Sculptra vs. hyaluronic acid filler • How long does it take to see Sculptra results? • How long does Sculptra last? • Where can Sculptra be injected? • Can you use Sculptra in the lips or under the eyes? • Can Sculptra cause lumps, nodules, or granulomas? • Why provider experience matters with Sculptra • Why Sculptra isn't a quick fix • Who may not be a good candidate for Sculptra • Can Sculptra tighten or lift the face? • Can Sculptra replace a facelift? • Can you still have a facelift after Sculptra? • How much Sculptra do you actually need? • How often should Sculptra be maintained? • Is Sculptra better for patients worried about looking overfilled? • And ultimately… is Sculptra actually worth it? Follow Scalpel and Skin Instagram: @scalpelandskinpodcast TikTok: @scalpelandskinpodcast Facebook: Scalpel and Skin Podcast Send us the treatments, trends, or questions you want Dr. Algie and Mistica to break down next. This is Scalpel and Skin. Let’s go!

    Is Sculptra Worth It? Sculptra vs. Filler, Collagen, Risks & Results | EP 08

  7. Sep 17

    Are Eyelid Procedures Worth It? Blepharoplasty, Fillers, Botox & Laser | EP 07

    Do you always look tired—even when you’re not? 👀 In Episode 7 of Scalpel and Skin, Dr. Algier Lebraska, a board-certified plastic surgeon, and his sister Mystica Lebraska, a dermatology PA, break down eyelid rejuvenation and the different treatments that can change the way your upper and lower face looks. From upper and lower blepharoplasty to brow lifts, tear trough filler, PRF, bio filler, Botox, laser treatments, and fat grafting, they explain why there isn't always one procedure that fixes the way your eyes age. They talk about what causes a tired-looking appearance, including skin changes, pigmentation, fat loss, fat pad herniation, brow descent, muscle movement, and changes to the bone around the eyes. They also get into some of the biggest questions surrounding eyelid rejuvenation: • What is an upper blepharoplasty? • What happens during an eyelid lift? • When should you consider upper eyelid surgery? • What causes under-eye bags? • What's the difference between upper and lower blepharoplasty? • Can lower eyelid fat be removed or repositioned? • What is a tear trough? • When can under-eye filler make things worse? • Why does filler selection matter under the eyes? • What is PRF and bio filler? • Can PRF replace traditional filler? • When should you use Botox around the eyes? • Is laser good for creepy eyelid skin and crow's feet? • What about fat grafting? • What are Fox Eye and Cat Eye procedures? • How much downtime does blepharoplasty require? • Is eyelid rejuvenation actually worth it? And, of course, they put the treatments through the Scalpel and Skin “Is It Worth It?” test. Because sometimes the answer is surgery. Sometimes it's filler. Sometimes it's laser. And sometimes… it's absolutely not worth it. 👀 Scalpel and Skin is hosted by siblings who combine plastic surgery and cosmetic dermatology to break down aesthetic treatments, trends, and procedures—with plenty of sibling arguments along the way. #ScalpelAndSkin #Blepharoplasty #EyelidRejuvenation #UnderEyeTreatment #FacialRejuvenation Follow Scalpel and Skin Instagram: @scalpelandskinpodcast TikTok: @scalpelandskinpodcast Facebook: Scalpel and Skin Podcast Send us the treatments, trends, or questions you want Dr. Algie and Mistica to break down next. This is Scalpel and Skin. Let’s go!

    Are Eyelid Procedures Worth It? Blepharoplasty, Fillers, Botox & Laser | EP 07

  8. Sep 10

    Are Hair Loss Treatments Worth It? Minoxidil, PRP, Exosomes & Hair Transplants | EP 06

    Are hair loss treatments actually worth it? Which ones work—and which ones are just a waste of money? In Episode 6 of Scalpel and Skin, Dr. Algie LaBrasca, a board-certified plastic surgeon, and Mistica LaBrasca, a cosmetic dermatology physician assistant, break down the most common hair loss treatments and hair restoration options for men and women. From minoxidil and finasteride to PRP, PRF, PDGF, exosomes, red light caps, and hair transplants, they talk about what each treatment does, who may benefit, and whether they think it's actually worth doing. They also discuss why genetics, hormones, stress, medications, diet, and other factors can contribute to hair loss—and why starting treatment earlier may help preserve the hair you have. You'll hear about: • Minoxidil and Rogaine for hair loss  • Finasteride and male pattern hair loss  • Hair loss supplements and biotin  • PRP vs. PRF for hair restoration  • PDGF and microneedling  • Exosomes for hair loss  • Red light therapy and hair growth caps  • Hair transplant surgery  • FUE (follicular unit extraction)  • Hair transplant recovery and costs  • Why donor hair matters  • Hair loss in men vs. women  • Genetics and hormonal hair loss  • When to start treating thinning hair  • Which hair loss treatments are actually worth it And, of course, they put everything through the Scalpel and Skin “Is It Worth It?” test. Because when it comes to aesthetic treatments, the question isn't just what can you do? Is it actually worth doing? #ScalpelAndSkin #HairLoss #HairRestoration #Minoxidil #HairTransplant Follow Scalpel and Skin Instagram: @scalpelandskinpodcast TikTok: @scalpelandskinpodcast Facebook: Scalpel and Skin Podcast Send us the treatments, trends, or questions you want Dr. Algie and Mistica to break down next. This is Scalpel and Skin. Let’s go!

    Are Hair Loss Treatments Worth It? Minoxidil, PRP, Exosomes & Hair Transplants | EP 06
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
7 Ratings

About

Scalpel and Skin is a plastic surgery, skin health, and aesthetics podcast hosted by siblings Dr. Algie LaBrasca, a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon, and Mistica LaBrasca, a cosmetic dermatology Physician Assistant.With more than 30 years of combined experience, they bring honest, educational, and unfiltered conversations to the world of plastic surgery and cosmetic dermatology.From Botox, fillers, lasers, and skincare to facelifts, med spas, patient safety, and the latest aesthetic trends, they break down what works, what doesn’t, what is worth the investment, and what is simply good marketing.Whether you are researching your first treatment, comparing surgical and nonsurgical options, or trying to find a provider you can trust, Scalpel and Skin gives you the information and perspective you need to make smarter decisions about your face, skin, body, and long-term aesthetic goals.

Information

  • Creator
    Dr.Algie LaBrasca & Mistica LaBrasca with BBNL Media
  • Years Active
    2026
  • Episodes
    13
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Scalpel and Skin
  • Show Website
    Scalpel and Skin

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