Dumb Blonde Podcast Episode Summary

Episode: TBT: Dr. Ricky Brown
Release Date: May 1, 2025
Host: Bunnie XO, Mimi
Guest: Dr. Ricky Brown, Plastic Surgeon and Author

Introduction to Dr. Ricky Brown

The episode kicks off with Bunnie XO introducing Dr. Ricky Brown, a renowned plastic surgeon and author, highlighting his journey from overcoming personal health challenges to establishing a successful practice in Arizona.

Dr. Ricky’s Personal Journey

Dr. Ricky shares his early struggles with education, describing himself as a "BC student" who flunked out of sixth grade but later found his passion in medicine. He explains his transition from aspiring to join the family computer business to pursuing a career in surgery after being inspired by shadowing plastic surgeons.

Dr. Ricky Brown [06:35]: "I decided I was gonna go work for my dad. But something just never felt right about it."

Medical Training and Specialization

Dr. Ricky details his extensive training, including a five-year residency in general surgery followed by specialized training in plastic surgery. He discusses the rigorous nature of surgical training and the rewarding aspects of reconstructive surgery.

Dr. Ricky Brown [25:08]: "I did four years of medical school in Chicago and then double boarded in general and plastic surgery."

Breast Implant Illness (BII) Discussion

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to the controversial topic of Breast Implant Illness (BII). Both Dr. Ricky and Mimi share their perspectives, with Mimi advocating for acknowledging BII symptoms and the importance of listening to patients’ experiences. Dr. Ricky recounts his personal experience with saline implants and emphasizes the need for openness in the medical community regarding BII.

Mimi [52:23]: "I'm just saying it's for sure possible that it's happening."

Dr. Ricky Brown [52:23]: "Absolutely."

Philosophies on Patient Care and Ethics

Mimi and Dr. Ricky discuss the ethical responsibilities of plastic surgeons, stressing the importance of not performing procedures that go against their moral compass. Mimi underscores the necessity of referring patients to other surgeons if a procedure isn't a good fit.

Mimi [88:25]: "If something doesn't align with my morals or that I think is right or wrong, I dismiss them and I send them somewhere else."

Audience Q&A Segment

The episode features a lively Q&A session where listeners ask questions about various plastic surgery topics, including:

• Fixing Tear Troughs: Mimi explains the complexities of tear troughs and recommends procedures like lower blepharoplasty or nano fat transfer for best results.

  Mimi [47:27]: "Some women have micro fat spun down and layered in to fill out the troughs."

• Breast Augmentation Process: Detailed walk-through of the consultation, sizing, surgical options, and the importance of understanding the long-term commitment to procedures like implants.

  Mimi [58:53]: "The first thing I always do with patients is ask them why they want implants."

• Liposuction Myths: Addressing concerns about fat redistribution post-lipo and emphasizing the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle to preserve results.

  Dr. Ricky Brown [68:53]: "Maintain your weight off is not an easy feat, and I'm very vocal about that."

• Perimenopause and Health Advocacy: Both hosts discuss the challenges of navigating perimenopause and the importance of finding supportive healthcare providers.

  Dr. Ricky Brown [85:45]: "Find somebody who listens to you because you have to be your biggest advocate for your health."

Surgical Anecdotes and Experiences

Dr. Ricky shares gripping stories from his residency, including complex reconstructive surgeries like the free fibula flap for jaw cancer patients, highlighting the precision and emotional fulfillment that comes with saving and rebuilding patients' lives.

Mimi [90:33]: "We did a free fibula flap. It was crazy."

Final Thoughts and Encouragement

The hosts conclude by emphasizing self-advocacy in health decisions, the importance of ethical practice in plastic surgery, and supporting one's journey toward body confidence and wellness.

Mimi [94:05]: "You're trying to help people, so if I think that something's not going to go well, I just divert them."

Notable Quotes

• Dr. Ricky Brown [19:12]: "You have to be your biggest advocate. If you don't believe in yourself, nobody else is."
• Mimi [53:34]: "I don't want to belittle the women who aren't doing okay. And I'm just going to refer you to Dr. Smith down the street."

Conclusion

This episode of the Dumb Blonde podcast offers a deep dive into the world of plastic surgery through the lens of Dr. Ricky Brown. It balances professional insights with personal experiences, advocating for ethical patient care and the importance of self-advocacy in health choices. Listeners gain valuable knowledge about surgical procedures, the intricacies of BII, and the emotional aspects of reconstructive and cosmetic surgery.

For those interested in the intersection of health, lifestyle, and personal empowerment, this episode serves as an informative and engaging resource.