Podcast Summary

The Clay Travis and Buck Sexton Show

Wellness Unmasked: From Botox to Mommy Makeovers: The Art and Science of Plastic Surgery
Date: November 25, 2025
Host: Dr. Nicole Saphier
Guest: Dr. Jonathan Sherwin, Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon

Episode Overview

This episode of Wellness Unmasked, hosted by Dr. Nicole Saphier, dives into the evolving world of plastic surgery for women, particularly around perimenopause, menopause, and the postpartum experience. The core focus is demystifying and destigmatizing “mommy makeovers”—a suite of surgical procedures including tummy tucks and breast reductions—which, as the guest Dr. Jonathan Sherwin emphasizes, aren’t just about aesthetics but also restoration of function and quality of life. The episode weaves in discussions about societal attitudes, new technologies, responsible decision-making, and the powerful impact of surgery on women's well-being, using a refreshing blend of medical expertise and candid conversation.

Key Discussion Points and Insights

1. Wellness Trends and Societal Expectations (02:47–07:03)

• The Rise of Menopause Wellness: Dr. Saphier sets the stage by humorously referencing trends—weighted vests for perimenopausal women, diet fads, and fitness regimens—all as acceptable means for women to “feel better and live longer.”
• The Stigma of Plastic Surgery: While diet and exercise are widely accepted, procedures like plastic surgery remain stigmatized despite their potential to meaningfully improve health and happiness.
  • Quote: “Making changes to yourself on the outside doesn't necessarily help the person on the inside. But anybody who ignores the fact that it can make you feel better on the inside, they're being dishonest.” — Dr. Nicole Saphier (05:36)

2. Evolutions in Facial Rejuvenation (12:03–17:43)

• Subtle Facelifts and the Zoom Boom: Dr. Sherwin sees a rise in demand for “subtle” facelifts, influenced by GLP1 medications, self-scrutiny via video calls (“Zoom boom”), and earlier interventions he playfully dubs “prejuvenation.”

  • Quote: “More and more procedures are being done at a younger age... Some individuals refer to this early intervention as prejuvenation, if you will.” — Dr. Jonathan Sherwin (14:12)

• Technique Matters: The outcome depends heavily on the surgeon’s skill, with a focus now on hidden incisions and avoiding the “overdone” look:

  • Quote: “It is about the surgeon. It's about their technique. It's how fastidious they are, how particular they are, how exacting they are.” — Dr. Jonathan Sherwin (17:45)

3. Botox, Fillers, and Reversing “Overdone” Trends (18:16–22:27)

• Common Progression: Many opt for Botox and fillers before considering surgery. Old fillers can show up during surgery; overuse leads to the infamous “chipmunk cheek” effect.
  • “I'm a huge fan of Botox. Fillers have to be done very, very judiciously, very carefully, very cautiously, because once you cross that line, it becomes a negative, not a positive.” — Dr. Jonathan Sherwin (22:02)
• Cultural Awareness: There’s irony in people shunning certain substances while embracing others, e.g., “...I only eat clean...and now I’m on my way to get my botulinum toxin injected in my face.” — Dr. Saphier (22:27)

4. The Lymphatic Drainage Craze (23:46–27:17)

• Science and Self-Care: Dr. Sherwin explains the origins and benefits of lymphatic drainage, from reducing swelling and speeding recovery post-surgery to improving skin glow and even acne.
  • “Manual lymphatic drainage definitely has significant benefits... It reduces swelling, bruising, diminishes pain and discomfort, promotes relaxation, sleep. It accelerates the recovery process.” — Dr. Jonathan Sherwin (24:03)
• Both clinical and home-based therapies are discussed as proven, accessible tools for recovery and daily self-care.

5. Mommy Makeover: Beyond the Vanity (28:29–37:30)

• Redefining “Cosmetic” Surgery: Much of what’s lumped as cosmetic—tummy tucks, breast reductions—actually restore physical function, not just appearance.
  • “The first that comes to mind would be restoration of a woman's core as performed in tummy tuck or abdominal plasty...They come in very compromised. And this procedure is very impactful.” — Dr. Sherwin (29:29)
• Core Restoration and Health Outcomes: Tummy tucks correct diastasis recti, reducing back pain, improving stability, and even addressing urinary incontinence.
  • “There was a study...that listed the myriad benefits of correction of the diastasis and providing core stability... correction of urinary incontinence, improvement of bowel function...” — Dr. Sherwin (30:29)
• De-stigmatizing and Normalizing: Both hosts agree the label "mommy makeover" undermines the importance and function of these procedures. Dr. Sherwin urges society to “laud” women for regaining their health.
  • “I really don't think it should be stigmatized at all...turning back the clock or allowing women to have that restoration functionally and bringing them back to a better place.” — Dr. Sherwin (34:32)

6. Surgical Timing, Preparation, and Patient Candidacy (37:30–41:23)

• Best Practices:
  • Wait until childbearing is complete before surgery; for breasts, at least six months after breastfeeding.
  • Achieve a stable, healthy weight through diet/exercise beforehand for best results.
  • Quote: “Certainly if somebody is thinking about a five or ten pound fluctuation in weight, that's not much...But if considering a 15 or 20 pound reduction, we encourage that prior to procedure.” — Dr. Sherwin (39:31)
  • Dr. Saphier: “I'm on a mission now to destigmatize tummy tucks for women who have had babies. ...Functionally it makes you look better, yes, but it makes you feel so much better and stronger.” (41:23)

7. Credentials Matter & Final Advice (42:50–44:21; 49:17)

• Choose Wisely:

  • Ensure your surgeon is board-certified and practices these procedures often.
  • Avoid “travel surgery” for cost savings; the risks outweigh the benefits.
  • Do your due diligence—research, ask questions, and use reputable practitioners.
  • Quote: “Credentials matter. I'm not a fan of travel surgery...Do your homework, investigate, explore...the more questions, the better.” — Dr. Sherwin (43:20)

• Empowerment and Solidarity:

  • Dr. Saphier urges listeners to reject shame and seek what truly improves their lives.
  • “Bottom line, we only have one life to live, so do what you have to do to feel better and don't let anyone out there hate on you.” — Dr. Nicole Saphier (49:17)

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

| Timestamp | Speaker | Quote | |-----------|--------------------------|--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 05:36 | Dr. Nicole Saphier | “Making changes to yourself on the outside doesn't necessarily help the person on the inside. But anybody who ignores ... they're being dishonest.” | | 14:12 | Dr. Jonathan Sherwin | “More and more procedures are being done at a younger age...Some individuals refer to this ... as prejuvenation, if you will.” | | 17:45 | Dr. Jonathan Sherwin | “It's about the surgeon. It's about their technique. It's how fastidious they are, how particular they are, how exacting they are.” | | 22:02 | Dr. Jonathan Sherwin | “I'm a huge fan of Botox. Fillers have to be done very, very judiciously, very carefully, very cautiously…” | | 24:03 | Dr. Jonathan Sherwin | “Manual lymphatic drainage definitely has significant benefits...It reduces swelling, bruising, diminishes pain and discomfort…” | | 29:29 | Dr. Jonathan Sherwin | “Restoration of a woman's core as performed in tummy tuck or abdominal plasty...this procedure is very impactful.” | | 41:23 | Dr. Nicole Saphier | “I'm on a mission now to destigmatize tummy tucks for women who have had babies....it makes you feel so much better and stronger.” | | 43:20 | Dr. Jonathan Sherwin | “Credentials matter. I'm not a fan of travel surgery...Do your homework, investigate, explore...the more questions, the better.” | | 49:17 | Dr. Nicole Saphier | “Bottom line, we only have one life to live, so do what you have to do to feel better and don't let anyone out there hate on you.” |

Important Segment Timestamps

• Wellness Trends & Stigma: 02:47–07:03
• Facelifts & ‘Zoom Boom’: 12:03–17:43
• Botox, Fillers, and Face Trends: 18:16–22:27
• Lymphatic Drainage Demystified: 23:46–27:17
• Mommy Makeover, Function & Identity: 28:29–37:30
• Timing & Preparation for Surgery: 37:30–41:23
• Choosing a Surgeon & Final Encouragement: 42:50–44:21
• Empowerment, Closing Thoughts: 49:17–end

Summary and Takeaways

• Plastic surgery can be a meaningful part of women's health and self-empowerment, particularly for mothers and aging women.
• Procedures like abdominoplasty and breast reduction are not just about aesthetics; they often restore function, confidence, and quality of life.
• Stigma around these procedures persists but is increasingly challenged by both data and personal testimonies.
• Selecting a skilled, board-certified surgeon is critical to safety and satisfaction.
• Wellness for women in perimenopause and menopause is multifaceted—diet, exercise, self-care, and, when desired, surgical interventions all play a role.
• Support, empathy, and informed decisions should lead the conversation, not shame or judgment.

For more on this topic, or to connect with Dr. Nicole Saphire and Dr. Jonathan Sherwin, tune in to Wellness Unmasked on the iHeartRadio app or wherever you get your podcasts.