Plastic Surgery Secrets: The Beauty Broker's Guide with Melinda Farina

In this episode of SHE MD, Mary Alice interviews Melinda A. Farina, also known as "The Beauty Broker," a renowned plastic surgery consultant and patient advocate who has matched over 35,000 men and women with carefully vetted physicians. Melinda shares her journey to becoming a leading figure in the health and beauty industry, offering insight into the potential dangers of non-invasive treatments, the impact of social media on plastic surgery, and the importance of patient advocacy. Melinda gives her hot takes on current cosmetic trends, effective procedures, and how to avoid common mistakes. This episode is packed with valuable advice for anyone who’s considering or curious about plastic surgery. Tune in to learn how to advocate for yourself and make safe and informed decisions when it comes to nose jobs, boob jobs, fillers, lasers, and more!

Key Considerations Before Undergoing Cosmetic Surgery

1. Conduct Thorough Research Before Choosing a Surgeon:  Avoid choosing a doctor just because they are popular on Instagram. Look for surgeons who offer personalized care and avoid high-volume practices where personalized attention may suffer.
2. Ensure Your Expectations Are Realistic: Bring inspiration photos to your consultation, but make sure the before-and-after cases shown by your doctor are realistic and similar to your unique situation. Understand that unrealistic photos can lead to unrealistic expectations.
3. Young Patients Should Seek Ethical Consultations: If you are a young patient considering cosmetic surgery, seek consultations that address psychological well-being in addition to physical changes. Be prepared to be turned away if surgery is not deemed necessary.
4. Follow Pre and Post-Operative Guidelines Closely: Follow all pre and post-operative instructions from your surgeon, including stopping certain medications and avoiding blood thinners. Rest, nutrition, and possibly using supportive measures like hyperbaric chambers can aid recovery.
5. Be Cautious with Fillers and Minimally Invasive Procedures: Approach fillers and minimally invasive treatments with caution as they can sometimes cause long-term issues. Consider discussing surgical options that address gravity and laxity first, as these can provide more lasting and natural results.