The Dark Side of Fillers, Botox, and Anesthesia and How Beauty Controls Our Perception - With Dr. Cameron Chesnut

Nov 19, 2025

Dr. Cameron Chesnut, a leading facial plastic surgeon, discusses the intricate world of cosmetic procedures like fillers and Botox. He reveals the risks of long-lasting fillers and highlights how Botox alters muscle function. Dr. Chesnut also dives into the concept of perception drift, showing how repeated treatments can affect self-image. He explains the different types of anesthesia and their cognitive impacts, along with innovative healing strategies like hyperbaric oxygen and red light therapy for optimal post-op recovery.

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INSIGHT

Fillers Are Long‑Lasting And Mobile

Hyaluronic acid fillers are cross-linked gels, not the natural molecule the body has.
Fillers often move and can persist for years or decades, creating long-term volume reservoirs.

INSIGHT

Neuromodulators Change Expression

Botox (botulinum toxin) weakens or paralyzes muscles by blocking nerve signals, reducing wrinkle-causing muscle pull.
Weakening muscles alters nonverbal communication and may trade skin strength for lost expressivity.

INSIGHT

Perception Drift Alters Self Image

Repeated cosmetic changes shift our internal baseline in small steps, a process called perception drift.
That gradual normalization makes large cumulative changes feel 'normal' to the person over time.

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Cosmetic procedures like fillers and Botox have become increasingly popular in recent years. Today, we’re going to explore the world of cosmetic treatments and how they work. You’re going to learn about some common misconceptions and the little-known risks and side effects.

Today’s guest, Dr. Cameron Chesnut, is a world-renowned facial plastic surgeon. He works with patients all over the world, focusing on minimally invasive procedures, regenerative recovery, and a holistic approach. On this episode of The Model Health Show, Dr. Chesnut is pulling back the curtain on the most common cosmetic treatments that are gaining popularity today.

You’re going to discover the impact that anesthesia can have on cognitive health and sleep, and why surgical recovery is a major stressor to your mitochondria and metabolism. We’re also going to discuss modern healing modalities like red light therapy, hyperbaric oxygen, and much more. Listen in and enjoy the show!

In this episode you’ll discover:

What filler is made of and how it works. (3:51)
The truth about how long filler actually lasts in the body. (5:24)
How Botox interacts with muscles and skin. (9:12)
What the phenomenon of perception drift is. (12:38)
The different types of anesthesia and how they work. (21:14)
How anesthesia can impact your sleep. (30:18)
Different healing modalities that can be used pre- and post-operation. (32:40)
What plastic surgery actually is. (40:32)
Why surgery is a test of metabolic flexibility and mitochondrial health. (50:55)
Dr. Chesnut’s pre-surgery routine. (57:39)
How making changes to your appearance can affect communication. (1:02:10)
The top things you can do to look and feel your best. (1:10:35)

Items mentioned in this episode include:

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Connect with Dr. Cameron Chesnut Website / Instagram

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This episode of The Model Health Show is brought to you by Pique and Lumebox.

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