Why Good Plastic Surgeons Say NO

Plastic Surgery Expectations: What a Facelift Can (and Can't) Do + Why Skincare Comes First Can plastic surgery really turn back the clock? Or are expectations becoming unrealistic? In this honest and thought-provoking discussion, **Ms Dhalia Masud**, an experienced **Consultant Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon**, is joined by Hayley and Rachel to explore the realities of facial rejuvenation, cosmetic surgery, skincare, and the psychology behind aesthetic procedures. They discuss why facial rejuvenation is *never a "one and done" treatment* and why no procedure can instantly create perfectly clear, wrinkle-free skin or completely reverse the ageing process. Topics include: Managing realistic expectations in plastic surgery What a facelift can and cannot achieve Why skincare should come before surgery The importance of SPF, retinol and long-term skin health Small procedures that can make a big difference Why every patient needs an individual consultation The psychological reasons people seek cosmetic surgery Why ethical surgeons sometimes say *"no"* The influence of social media on beauty standards Looking healthy versus actually being healthy Why maintaining results requires lifelong investment in your skin The discussion also explores how lifestyle factors—including smoking, alcohol consumption, sun exposure, nutrition and daily skincare—can significantly influence surgical outcomes, and why maintaining healthy skin before and after surgery is essential for achieving the best possible results. *Ms Dhalia Masud* is an experienced *Consultant Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon* specialising in breast surgery, facial rejuvenation, reconstructive surgery and skin cancer surgery. Through this podcast, she shares evidence-based advice to help patients make informed decisions and understand both the possibilities and limitations of cosmetic surgery. 📧 **Appointments & [email protected]] If you found this discussion helpful, please *Like**, **Subscribe**, and turn on **Notifications* for more expert conversations on plastic surgery, facial aesthetics, reconstructive surgery, patient safety and evidence-based skincare. Podcast Summary Dhalia Masud, Hayley, and Rachel discuss managing expectations in plastic surgery, stressing that facial rejuvenation isn't "one and done" and can't instantly create perfectly clear, wrinkle-free skin or fully reverse ageing. They emphasise a multimodal, individualised approach—including consistent at-home skincare (SPF, retinoids, antioxidants and other evidence-based products), healthy lifestyle habits, and carefully selected procedures such as blepharoplasty—along with ongoing maintenance after surgery. The conversation explains why consultations are so important, how results vary according to skin quality and lifestyle factors such as smoking, alcohol and sun exposure, and why experienced surgeons must carefully assess psychological motivations before recommending cosmetic surgery. They also discuss the influence of social media, changing beauty standards across generations, and the important distinction between looking healthy and actually being healthy. Chapters 00:00 – Setting Expectations 00:48 – Myths About Facelifts 01:30 – Why Skincare Comes First 02:56 – Small Procedures & Natural Glow Ups 04:15 – Why Consultations Matter 05:38 – Social Media and the "One & Done" Myth 06:02 – The Psychology Behind Cosmetic Surgery 07:12 – When Is the Right Age for a Facelift? 09:27 – The Fear of Ageing 15:34 – Wellness Versus Looking Good 18:48 – Invest in Your Skin Now 20:16 – Cosmetic Surgery Isn't for Everyone 21:15 – Final Thoughts