The La Jolla Cosmetic Surgery Podcast - With San Diego’s Most Loved Plastic Surgeons

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 augmentation, breast lift, and tummy tucks. With a specialization in loose skin removal, Dr. Breister is passionate about helping people who have lost weight become less self-conscious about the loose skin left over. Send us a voicemail! We’ll answer your question on the podcast. Send us your message at thelajollacosmeticpodcast.com To learn more, go to ljcsc.com or follow @ljcsc on Instagram

Episodes

August 19, 2025 32 mins
(00:00:00) Jamie Lee Curtis's statement against plastic surgery
(00:05:53) Why Jamie Lee Curtis's statement is damaging
(00:08:12) Misconceptions about plastic surgery
(00:12:00) Non-superficial reasons people get plastic surgery
(00:23:20) What Jamie Lee Curtis could have said instead of genocide
(00:26:14) Pressure of beauty standards toward young people
(00:31:01) Takeaways
(00:31:41) Outro

When Jamie Lee Curtis called plastic ...
Mark as Played
(00:00:00) Welcome Kayla, Clinic Manager and Lead for Dr. Luke Swistun
(00:00:50) How Kayla helps you at LJCSC
(00:02:48) Kayla’s history with LJCSC
(00:04:00) Why I decided to become clinic manager and lead nurse for Dr. Swistun
(00:06:53) Why I love working at LJCSC
(00:08:34) The most rewarding part of being Dr. Swistun’s nurse
(00:09:28) A patient story I’ll never forget about
(00:12:04) Kayla’s background in medicine and aesth...
Mark as Played
(00:00:00) Welcome psychologist Dr. Dominika Swistun
(00:01:02) Dr. Swistun’s experience in clinical psychology and sleep medicine
(00:02:20) What happens when we sleep?
(00:03:52) How much sleep do I need to be healthy?
(00:05:35) What happens if I don’t get enough sleep?
(00:06:05) Benefits of quality sleep on anti-aging
(00:08:48) How people change when they start to sleep better
(00:11:02) Long-term benefits of good sleep
(00:1...
Mark as Played
(00:00:00) Welcome Ruthie, patient coordinator
(00:00:30) How Ruthie helps you at LJCSC
(00:04:00) The highlight of working at LJCSC
(00:05:00) Ruthie’s medical background
(00:06:25) Ruthie’s passion for guiding patients
(00:10:17) The LJCSC experience
(00:12:06) Ruthie outside of work
(00:13:39) The best places to go in San Diego
(00:14:36) My advice to someone coming to LJCSC for the first time
(00:16:10) Takeaways and outro

Wit...
Mark as Played
(00:00:00) Welcome Dr. Hector Salazar
(00:00:40) What is a silent rupture?
(00:03:38) When should I get imaging for my breast implants?
(00:04:18) How much does a breast MRI cost?
(00:05:50) High definition ultrasound vs. MRI
(00:09:17) What are we looking for on a breast ultrasound?
(00:10:55) What to do if your implants might be ruptured
(00:14:30) What to expect on your breast ultrasound day
(00:16:55) How often should you get a...
Mark as Played
You’ve had the surgery, the swelling’s gone, and your results are settling in, but there’s one final detail that can really complete the transformation.

Vanessa Dougherty is a tattoo artist who specializes in scar camouflage and restorative micropigmentation. She works closely with plastic surgeons to help patients take their results to the next level using color, care, and craft.

Vanessa shares how she got into medical tattooing, wh...
Mark as Played
For 79 years, Las Patronas has been one of San Diego’s most quietly powerful forces for good, fueling vital work in supporting the arts, people with disabilities, underserved youth, healthcare, and more.

Rowena Treitler, president of Las Patronas, shares the story behind this all-women, all-volunteer organization. She shares how it started, how La Jolla Cosmetic is connected, and what’s coming up, including their biggest event of th...
Mark as Played
Monique and Hannah take a walk down memory lane, reflecting on the moments that make this podcast so loved by our patients and listeners all over the world.

For four years, we’ve shared real patient stories, expert insights, and clear, honest education about the procedures we do.

In this celebratory 200th episode of the La Jolla Cosmetic Surgery podcast, hear our real-time reactions to 10 of our favorite moments… everything from Moni...
Mark as Played
You find yourself looking in the mirror after major weight loss and thinking, “Where do I even begin?”

Loose skin on your stomach, thighs, arms, or butt feels overwhelming, and Googling “body lift” only adds to the confusion. Can you do it all at once? Should you?

San Diego plastic surgeon Dr. Johan Brahme breaks down how to think about your treatment plan to match your goals, health, and lifestyle.

Since losing more weight can still ...
Mark as Played
After surgery like facelifts, tummy tucks, liposuction, or BBLs, swelling and stiffness can stick around. Lymphatic drainage can make a big difference in your recovery. 

Planning your post-op care ahead of time is just as important as choosing the right procedure, and not all lymphatic massages are the same. 

To support healing, you need someone who truly understands the lymphatic system. A qualified therapist with the right training...
Mark as Played
With over 10 years of experience as a medical assistant, Cynthia wears many hats at LJCSC. Whether she’s at the front desk greeting patients, answering phone calls, helping with scheduling, or in the back assisting with rooming and follow-up procedures, she’s always ready to jump in wherever she’s needed.

Cynthia knew right out of high school that she wanted to become a medical assistant. Over the years, she’s worked in a variety of...
Mark as Played
Think you’re too young—or too old—for plastic surgery? You’re not alone. Whether you’re in your 20s and wondering if it’s “too soon” or in your 70s questioning if it’s “too late,” age alone shouldn’t be the deciding factor.

Instead of waiting for the “perfect” age, it’s more helpful to focus on what you’d like to improve. Dr. Luke Swistun breaks down how age can influence plastic surgery decisions and how healthy habits can enhance ...
Mark as Played
Juliana is often the first friendly face you’ll see after meeting with a coordinator. As a medical assistant, she loves being part of your journey and seeing your transformation from consult to post-op care.

Juliana’s passion for plastic surgery and helping patients feel their best shines through in everything she does. Her background in urgent care gave her a wide range of medical experience, which she brings to every patient inter...
Mark as Played
Not sure you even want plastic surgery because the whole recovery thing feels like a mystery? We totally get it, and we’re demystifying it for you.

Knowing what to expect during recovery makes all the difference. The truth is, those final results you’re after can take weeks, months, or even longer to really be final. 

San Diego plastic surgeon Dr. Hector Salazar breaks it down, from why swelling happens, to the importance of lymphati...
Mark as Played
Whether you're curious, planning a procedure, or just love staying in the know, this spring trends episode is full of surprises and a look at what’s shaping the future of plastic surgery.

Assistant producer Hannah joins Monique for a chat about the biggest shifts happening now.
Motiva breast implants are making waves for their ultra-natural feel and safety perks—plus, there’s a $250 rebate backed by Meghan Trainor.

Learn why more 30- ...
Mark as Played
April 29, 2025 19 mins
What’s life really like after cosmetic labiaplasty surgery? How do women feel about their results, and what’s the emotional journey like during recovery?

Labiaplasty can be a life-changing boost for both confidence and comfort. San Diego plastic surgeon Dr. Diana Breister shares what the experience is really like, physically and emotionally, including the changes women notice before and after surgery, everyday activities that become...
Mark as Played
Motiva breast implants are now available at La Jolla Cosmetic Surgery Centre!

San Diego plastic surgeon Dr. Diana Breister explains what makes these breast implants such a game-changer. From the lower risk of capsular contracture and rupture to the cutting-edge science behind their design, there’s a lot to love.

Curious about the difference between Motiva’s SmoothSilk Ergonomix (the “Ergo”) and Round implants? Dr. Breister breaks it ...
Mark as Played
Over 1,200 beautifully refreshed faces speak for themselves. With his 30+ years of experience helping people achieve their dream facelift results, San Diego plastic surgeon Dr. Johan Brahme cuts through the marketing hype around mini, SMAS, and deep plane facelifts, explaining who they’re best for and what truly matters when choosing a procedure.

It’s not about the type of facelift—it’s about the surgeon’s skill and artistic eye. It...
Mark as Played
Avoiding two-piece swimsuits or open-back dresses? You’re not alone! It’s a common struggle, and San Diego plastic surgeon Dr. Luke Swistun is here to explain why it’s so hard to get rid of. 

No matter how many workouts you do, back fat can be incredibly stubborn—and there’s a scientific reason for that. Dr. Swistun explains why liposuction is usually the most effective solution, how back lipo often turns into 360 lipo, and why inci...
Mark as Played
Men don’t always talk about plastic surgery, but social media has made it more accepted. San Diego plastic surgeon Dr. Hector Salazar breaks down the history of male cosmetic procedures, the most popular treatments, and how society perceives men who do them.

For facial rejuvenation, Dr. Salazar highlights a high-impact combo for men who want to avoid facelift scars: eyelid surgery and the T-Z Plasty. This technique tightens the cent...
Mark as Played

Popular Podcasts

    If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.

    My Favorite Murder with Karen Kilgariff and Georgia Hardstark

    My Favorite Murder is a true crime comedy podcast hosted by Karen Kilgariff and Georgia Hardstark. Each week, Karen and Georgia share compelling true crimes and hometown stories from friends and listeners. Since MFM launched in January of 2016, Karen and Georgia have shared their lifelong interest in true crime and have covered stories of infamous serial killers like the Night Stalker, mysterious cold cases, captivating cults, incredible survivor stories and important events from history like the Tulsa race massacre of 1921. My Favorite Murder is part of the Exactly Right podcast network that provides a platform for bold, creative voices to bring to life provocative, entertaining and relatable stories for audiences everywhere. The Exactly Right roster of podcasts covers a variety of topics including historic true crime, comedic interviews and news, science, pop culture and more. Podcasts on the network include Buried Bones with Kate Winkler Dawson and Paul Holes, That's Messed Up: An SVU Podcast, This Podcast Will Kill You, Bananas and more.

    The Joe Rogan Experience

    The official podcast of comedian Joe Rogan.

    The Breakfast Club

    The World's Most Dangerous Morning Show, The Breakfast Club, With DJ Envy, Jess Hilarious, And Charlamagne Tha God!

    New Heights with Jason & Travis Kelce

    Football’s funniest family duo — Jason Kelce of the Philadelphia Eagles and Travis Kelce of the Kansas City Chiefs — team up to provide next-level access to life in the league as it unfolds. The two brothers and Super Bowl champions drop weekly insights about the weekly slate of games and share their INSIDE perspectives on trending NFL news and sports headlines. They also endlessly rag on each other as brothers do, chat the latest in pop culture and welcome some very popular and well-known friends to chat with them. Check out new episodes every Wednesday. Follow New Heights on the Wondery App, YouTube or wherever you get your podcasts. You can listen to new episodes early and ad-free, and get exclusive content on Wondery+. Join Wondery+ in the Wondery App, Apple Podcasts or Spotify. And join our new membership for a unique fan experience by going to the New Heights YouTube channel now!

Advertise With Us
Music, radio and podcasts, all free. Listen online or download the iHeart App.

Connect

© 2025 iHeartMedia, Inc.