the DIEP end: A Plastic Surgery Podcast

keywordsplastic surgery, vascular surgery, medical education, career balance, family life, mentorship, lower extremity reconstruction, academic medicine, running, personal stories, work-life balance, sleep health, patient care, limb salvage surgery, women in medicine, career reflections, operating room music, surgical instrumentssummaryIn this engaging podcast episode, Dr. Karen Evans shares her journey through medicine, from her early interest in biology to her specialization in plastic and vascular surgery. The conversation delves into her educational background, the pivotal moments that shaped her career, and her experiences in the demanding field of lower extremity reconstruction. Dr. Evans also discusses the challenges of balancing a medical career with family life, her passion for mentoring young medical professionals, and her personal love for running. The episode highlights the importance of mentorship, the joy of academic medicine, and the unique stories that shape a physician's path. In this engaging conversation, Dr. Karen Evans discusses the balance of work and family life, the importance of sleep, and the evolving definitions of success in patient care. She shares insights on advancements in limb salvage surgery and the future of lower extremity surgery, emphasizing the role of women in medicine and the importance of individualized patient care. The discussion also touches on personal experiences, including living in her car during medical training, and the role of music in the operating room.takeawaysDr. Evans emphasizes the importance of mentorship in academic medicine.Her early interest in biology was sparked by a unique experience in middle school.She found her passion in vascular surgery during her medical training.The transition to plastic surgery was influenced by a memorable debridement case.Balancing a demanding career with family life is a significant challenge for physicians.Dr. Evans values the energy and excitement that young medical students bring to her practice.She believes in the importance of finding one's niche in medicine during residency.Running has been a consistent part of her life and relationship with her husband.The support of family and caregivers has been crucial in her career.Dr. Evans shares a humorous anecdote about her early days in residency. Dr. Evans attributes her resilience to her mother's genetic strength.She believes in the importance of sleep but feels lucky to function well with less.Defining success in patient care is complex and varies by individual.Perforator-based flaps represent a significant advancement in surgery.The future of lower extremity surgery should focus on individualized care.Women in medicine can set great examples for future generations.Adaptability and flexibility are crucial in balancing work and family.Living in her car during training was a unique experience for Dr. Evans.Music plays a vital role in creating a positive atmosphere in the OR.The right surgical instruments can greatly enhance a surgeon's capabilities.Send us a textSupport the showInstagram: @thediependpodcast

Dr. Amber Leis, a dual board-certified plastic and hand surgeon and Program Director at WashU, shares insights from her unique journey from a rural upbringing to the forefront of surgical education. She discusses the importance of mentorship and the challenges of relocating for her role at WashU. Dr. Leis offers valuable advice for aspiring plastic surgeons, emphasizing personal stories in applications and the significance of grit. She also highlights her innovative approaches to education, underscoring the importance of emotional intelligence in medical training.

Guest: Dr. Jordan Swanson, Pediatric Plastic & Craniofacial Surgeon | Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP)Podcast: the DIEP endEpisode Summary:In this inspiring episode of The DIEP End, hosts Dr. Saїd Azoury and Hank Davis sit down with Dr. Jordan Swanson, a leading craniofacial and pediatric plastic surgeon at CHOP. From building forts in the woods of Washington State to building sustainable surgical centers in Nicaragua, Dr. Swanson shares a remarkable journey shaped by global health, mentorship, and innovation.Listeners will hear how his unconventional path—including time at Harvard, Johns Hopkins, the London School of Economics, and McKinsey—ultimately reinforced his passion for clinical medicine and patient care. Dr. Swanson reflects on his pioneering global health work with Operation Smile, the legacy of his mentors at Hopkins and CHOP, and his dual practice spanning pediatric craniofacial surgery and gender-affirming care.This conversation is a masterclass in surgical courage, patient empathy, and the future of plastic surgery—both at home and abroad.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:●      How childhood experiences and global family influences shaped Dr. Swanson’s worldview●      Why two years away from medical school deepened his passion for clinical medicine●      Lessons from mentors like Dr. Eduardo Rodriguez, Dr. Paul Manson, and Dr. Linton Whittaker●      Building sustainable pediatric surgical care in Nicaragua with Operation Smile●      Balancing innovation and caution in pediatric craniofacial surgery●      The role of mentorship and bi-directional global training programs●      Insights into CHOP’s multidisciplinary cleft program and addressing disparities in care●      How gender-affirming surgery intersects with craniofacial reconstruction●      The growing role of technology and AI in surgical planning and patient outcomes●      Practical advice for residents pursuing craniofacial surgeryQuotable Moments:●      “Healthcare is cool in Philadelphia—you see people walk across the South Street Bridge with pride.”●      “When you innovate in pediatric surgery, it takes courage. You have to weigh the risk for a lifetime.”●      “Global surgery isn’t about us setting the agenda—it’s about supporting local surgeons with autonomy.”●      “Every patient encounter may feel routine for us, but for families, the bottom has just fallen out.”●      “Curiosity is the most powerful motivator—let it drive your training and career.”Keywords (SEO-Driven):plastic surgery podcast, Jordan Swanson CHOP, pediatric plastic surgeon, craniofacial surgery, cleft lip and palate program, global surgery innovation, Operation Smile Nicaragua, Linton Whitaker craniofacial, gender affirming facial surgery, AI in surgical planning, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia plastic surgery, mentorship in surgery, The DIEP End podcastFollow Dr. Jordan Swanson:●      CHOP Profile: Children’s Hospital of PhiladelphiaFollow The DIEP End:●      Instagram & YouTube: @thediependpodcast●      Spotify & Apple Podcasts: The DIEP EndLeave Us a Review: If you enjoyed this episode, please rate and review us on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Your feedback helps more listeners discover these inspiring conversations. Send us a textSupport the showInstagram: @thediependpodcast

Summary In this engaging conversation, Dr. Gerald discusses his journey into medicine, the evolution of plastic surgery, and the impact of social media on the field. He reflects on his training, mentorship experiences, and the importance of maintaining a natural look for patients. Dr. Gerald shares valuable insights for future plastic surgeons, emphasizing the significance of hard work, honesty, and compassion in patient care. He also touches on the historical context of plastic surgery, particularly the influence of figures like Halstead, and concludes with personal reflections on life and career satisfaction. TakeawaysDr. Gerald's journey into medicine was influenced by his friends.He found his passion for surgery during medical school.Mentorship played a crucial role in his specialization in plastic surgery.Plastic surgery has evolved to become more mainstream and accepted.Social media has changed how plastic surgeons promote their work.Future plastic surgeons should focus on both technical skills and patient interaction.Dr. Gerald emphasizes the importance of looking natural in cosmetic surgery.He believes in treating patients with dignity and kindness.Music plays a significant role in his surgical practice. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Early Influences02:39 Journey into Medicine and Personal Challenges05:07 Training and Mentorship in Surgery07:47 Evolution of Plastic Surgery10:40 The Impact of Social Media on Plastic Surgery13:31 Advice for Future Plastic Surgeons23:40 The Influence of Friends and Colleagues25:17 The Journey to Writing: Halstead's Story27:35 Inspiration from Genius on the Edge28:36 Halstead's Early Life and Transformation30:42 The Right Man at the Right Time31:15 Relationships with Medical Giants33:24 Addiction and Innovation in Medicine35:12 The Blessings of a Medical Career36:52 The Leap of Innovation in Surgery40:47 Passion Over Profit in Medical Storytelling42:00 The Art of Writing and Publishing43:58 Reflections on Mentorship and Legacy45:51 The Human Side of Greatness47:42 Life Lessons and Personal Philosophy51:40 The Evolution of Medical Training53:41 Gratitude and Life Reflections55:03 Music in the Operating Room56:10 Favorite Surgical Instruments and StoriesKeywordsplastic surgery, mentorship, social media, surgical training, Halstead, medical history, patient care, personal insights, surgical instruments, life lessonsSend us a textSupport the showInstagram: @thediependpodcast

Send us a textSupport the showInstagram: @thediependpodcast

Send us a textSupport the showInstagram: @thediependpodcast

Guest: Dr. Sherrell J. Aston, Renowned Aesthetic Plastic Surgeon & EducatorPodcast: The DIEP EndEpisode Summary:In this insightful episode of The DIEP End, Dr. Saїd Azoury and Dr. Hank Davis engage with Dr. Sherrell Aston, one of the most influential figures in aesthetic plastic surgery. Dr. Aston shares his journey from humble beginnings in rural Virginia to becoming an internationally recognized expert in facelifts and aesthetic innovation. His storied career includes training at esteemed institutions like UVA, UCLA, Johns Hopkins, and NYU, where he significantly advanced the field of facial plastic surgery.Dr. Aston candidly discusses the evolution of facelift techniques, from early innovations in SMAS and platysmal approaches to contemporary deep-plane and composite facelifts. He also offers personal anecdotes about balancing academic rigor with private practice, his philosophies on mentorship, patient care, and lifelong learning.Whether you're a surgical trainee, an established plastic surgeon, or simply fascinated by the world of aesthetic surgery, this episode offers rare insights from a pioneer whose work has shaped generations.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:●      Dr. Aston’s pioneering journey through general and plastic surgery residencies●      The history and evolution of the facelift, including SMAS and deep-plane techniques●      His early career challenges and how he integrated private practice with academic surgery●      Reflections on mentorship and his impactful training legacy at NYU●      Dr. Aston’s unique insights into patient care and surgical innovation●      The importance of maintaining physical fitness and balance as a surgeonQuotable Moments:●      "Every facelift I do is a '10' until the bandage is on."●      "Pursue what your heart tells you, otherwise you won't be truly happy."●      "You learn from everyone—you must leave every meeting knowing something new."Keywords (SEO-Driven): Sherrell Aston podcast, facelift pioneer, aesthetic plastic surgery, SMAS facelift, deep-plane facelift, aesthetic surgery education, plastic surgery mentorship, surgical innovation, NYU plastic surgery, The DIEP End podcast, UVA medicine, Johns Hopkins plastic surgeryFollow The DIEP End:●      Instagram & YouTube: @thedeependpodcast●      Spotify & Apple Podcasts: The DIEP EndLeave Us a Review: If you enjoyed this episode, please rate and review us on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Your feedback helps us bring these insightful conversations to more curious listeners.Send us a textSupport the showInstagram: @thediependpodcast

In this engaging conversation, Dr. Paul Nassif, a celebrity facial plastic surgeon known from Botched and The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills, shares his fascinating journey from restaurant management to the forefront of revision rhinoplasty. He reveals behind-the-scenes tales from reality TV and discusses the ethical dimensions of plastic surgery. Dr. Nassif also tackles the impact of social media on beauty perceptions, shares insights on innovative surgical techniques, and reflects on maintaining balance in a demanding career while keeping things light with quirky patient stories.

Join Dr. Peter Rubin, Chair of Plastic Surgery at the University of Pittsburgh, as he shares his inspiring journey from his father's legacy to his passion for the artistry of surgery. He discusses the evolution of body contouring, sparked by a rising demand after weight loss. With insights on the role of adipose stem cells in regenerative therapies, he highlights the importance of mentorship in advancing the field. Dr. Rubin also reflects on personal growth, balancing a demanding career, and the continuous pursuit of knowledge in plastic surgery.

Send us a textSupport the showInstagram: @thediependpodcast