HKB Uncut | A Cosmetic Surgery Podcast

Who is Cosmetic Surgery for? The Truth about the patients we take on.

Thu, 23 Jul 2026 14:00:00 -0400

Is cosmetic surgery only for the wealthy or famous? The doctors at HKB reveal who their patients really are, how they decide who's a good candidate beyond just appearance, and the incredible mindset shifts they see after surgery. They also explore procedures that genuinely change lives—and react to the viral Clavicular influencer nose job, explaining why it may have thrown off the patient's entire facial balance. This is an honest conversation about confidence, psychology, and the art of cosmetic surgery.

Welcome to HKB Uncut: the Health, Knowledge, and Beauty Podcast. On this show, Dr. Bill Kortesis & Dr. Gaurav Bharti unpack the newest techniques and trends in cosmetic surgery, how to tune out the social media noise to make empowered decisions about your appearance, and what you need to know before you book a procedure.

Dr. Bill Kortesis and Dr. Gaurav Bharti are board certified plastic surgeons and Co-Founders of HKB Cosmetic Surgery, an award-winning practice with ten locations across five states.

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32. Questions Keeping Patients Up at Night | Anesthesia, Regret, Recovery & Results

Thu, 09 Jul 2026 06:00:00 -0400

Surgery has a way of getting loud in your head at night. You can feel excited, prepared, and confident in your choice, then suddenly start thinking about anesthesia, regret, recovery, swelling, implants, or what happens if the result feels unfamiliar at first. In this episode of HKB Uncut, Dr. Bill Kortesis and Dr. Gaurav Bharti answer the questions patients often carry quietly before a procedure. They talk through common fears with the clarity patients need before making a personal decision, covering anesthesia safety, implant flipping, filler balance, GLP-1 medications, liposuction, and the emotional side of healing.

5 things to know when surgery nerves show up:

Anesthesia fear is common, especially for people who like to feel in control. Experienced anesthesia providers do this every day. Their job is to keep patients safe, monitored, and comfortable from start to finish.
Implants can flip in some cases. Pocket size, implant firmness, and implant shape all play a role. When flipping does happen, it can often be addressed. In some cases, it can be corrected with a simple maneuver.
Regret is less likely when the consultation is honest. Clear expectations matter. So does choosing an experienced, ethical surgeon who listens, communicates clearly, and helps you understand what is realistic before surgery day.
Filler should support the face instead of overpowering it. A natural result often comes from a thoughtful mix of treatments. Conservative filler, biostimulators, skincare, microneedling, lasers, and neurotoxins can all play a role when they fit the patient’s goals.
Recovery affects the body and the mind. Swelling, discomfort, bruising, fluid, and post-surgical blues can change how someone feels in the early healing window. Calling your surgeon early can bring clarity, reassurance, or a plan.

Dr. Bill Kortesis and Dr. Gaurav Bharti are board certified plastic surgeons and Co-Founders of HKB Cosmetic Surgery, an award-winning practice with ten locations across five states.

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31. The Dental Facelift | Smile Design, Airway Health & How Teeth Transform Your Face with Joseph Chichetti, DMD

Thu, 02 Jul 2026 06:00:00 -0400

When people think about facial rejuvenation, they usually think about the eyes, skin, jawline, or neck… but the smile plays a major role, too. In this episode of HKB Uncut, Dr. Bill Kortesis and Dr. Gaurav Bharti sit down with Dr. Joe Chichetti to talk about how dental function, airway health, bite alignment, tooth wear, and tooth display all influence the way the face looks and ages. They also discuss why natural-looking cosmetic dentistry starts with function, how digital smile design helps create personalized results, and when dental restoration may be an important part of a larger facial rejuvenation plan.

Joe Chichetti, DMD, is a cosmetic and restorative dentist and the owner of Harmony Transformative Cosmetic Dentistry at HKB Huntersville. He brings nearly two decades of experience to his work, with a thoughtful approach that connects smile design, airway health, function, and overall wellness. Dr. Chichetti also lectures internationally on Smile design, digital dentistry, airway health, and clear aligners.

This specialty practice was co-founded with his wife Amy, whose background in wellness, business development, and management has been integral to the Harmony patient experience. Together they have created one of the premier Cosmetic Dental practices in the country.

Connect with Dr. Chichetti:

Connect with Harmony Transformative Cosmetic Dentistry:

5 things to know before treating your smile or face:

Your smile is not just cosmetic. When teeth look worn, uneven, or out of balance, there is often a functional reason behind it. Treating that root cause can lead to a better, longer-lasting result.
Airway health can affect your teeth over time. Mouth breathing, grinding, clenching, and tooth movement can all be clues that something deeper is going on with the airway or bite.
Tooth display matters more than people realize. If you are not showing much tooth when you speak or smile, it can make the face appear older… even if the rest of the face still looks youthful.
Natural-looking dental work comes down to the details. The most believable smiles are designed around the person’s face, with the right shape, softness, translucency, and light reflection.
The smile and face should be planned together. For some patients, improving the bite or tooth display before facial rejuvenation can help the overall result look more balanced and natural.

Dr. Bill Kortesis and Dr. Gaurav Bharti are board certified plastic surgeons and Co-Founders of HKB Cosmetic Surgery, an award-winning practice with ten locations across five states.

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30. What Makes a Great Plastic Surgeon? Dr. Jeyhan Wood on Natural Results, Surgical Judgment & Patient Care

Thu, 25 Jun 2026 06:00:00 -0400

What does great plastic surgery actually look like behind the scenes? Dr. Jeyhan Wood joins HKB Uncut to share how years of craniofacial reconstruction shaped her approach to aesthetic surgery, why listening is one of the most important surgical skills, and surgical judgment shapes every recommendation from facial rejuvenation to body contouring. Along the way, the conversation explores the rise of natural-looking results, emerging regenerative technologies, and the qualities patients should look for when choosing a surgeon.

Dr. Jeyhan Wood is a board-certified plastic surgeon at H/K/B Cosmetic Surgery in Chapel Hill, NC. After completing integrated plastic surgery training at Wake Forest and a craniofacial fellowship at UNC-Chapel Hill, she spent more than a decade caring for pediatric and reconstructive patients before returning her focus to aesthetic surgery.

Connect with Dr. Wood:

In this episode, we talk about:

How reconstructive surgery experience creates a different perspective on aesthetics
Why more men are choosing direct neck lifts – and what recovery actually looks like
How tummy tucks and breast reductions can improve comfort, posture, mobility, and everyday quality of life
What determines whether a teenager is truly ready for breast reduction surgery
Why technical skill, empathy, and long-term patient relationships all matter when choosing a surgeon
Why natural-looking results have become the new gold standard in aesthetics
What regenerative medicine, GLP-1s, tissue engineering, and surgical robotics could mean for the future of plastic surgery

Dr. Bill Kortesis and Dr. Gaurav Bharti are board certified plastic surgeons and Co-Founders of HKB Cosmetic Surgery, an award-winning practice with ten locations across five states.

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29. Hair Transplants Aren't What They Used to Be

Thu, 18 Jun 2026 06:00:00 -0400

WARNING: This episode contains surgical footage from an active hair transplant procedure, including images that some viewers may find graphic. Viewer discretion is advised.

Most people still picture the hair transplants of decades past: obvious plugs, unnatural hairlines, and results that announce themselves from across the room. Dr. Tim Love has spent more than 30 years helping change that perception. In this episode, Dr. Bill Kortesis and Dr. Gaurav Bharti sit down with the Oklahoma City surgeon to talk about how modern hair restoration works, who makes a good candidate, why long-term planning matters, and what separates natural-looking results from disappointing ones.

Tim R. Love, MD, FACS is a double board-certified cosmetic surgeon with more than 30 years of experience and a special interest in hair restoration. Trained by hair transplant pioneer Dr. O'Tar Norwood, he has spent decades helping patients achieve natural-looking results through thoughtful planning, meticulous technique, and long-term care.

Connect with Dr. Love:

Resources mentioned:

Hair Restoration with H/K/B Cosmetic Surgery

5 Things People Get Wrong About Hair Transplants:

Hair restoration starts with a long-term plan, not a surgery date. The best candidates have stable hair loss patterns and realistic expectations about future hair loss.
A transplant doesn't create new hair. Surgeons carefully move existing hair from one area of the scalp to another and have to manage that limited resource wisely.
The most effective treatment for many men may start with medication. Finasteride remains one of the most reliable ways to slow ongoing hair loss.
Technique matters. Hairline design, graft quality, and surgical judgment all play a role in creating natural-looking results.
Patience is part of the process. Transplanted hairs often shed before regrowing, with noticeable improvement around six months and final results taking closer to a year.

Dr. Bill Kortesis and Dr. Gaurav Bharti are board certified plastic surgeons and Co-Founders of HKB Cosmetic Surgery, an award-winning practice with ten locations across five states.

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28. Labiaplasty and Female Rejuvenation Explained

Thu, 11 Jun 2026 06:00:00 -0400

For many women, the first question about labiaplasty comes from a very practical place: clothing feels uncomfortable, workouts feel distracting, bathing suits feel hard to shop for, or anatomy has changed after pregnancy or weight loss. In this episode, Dr. Bill Kortesis and Dr. Gaurav Bharti talk with Plastic Surgery Center of Nashville by H/K/B partners Dr. Mindy Haws and Dr. Mary Gingrass about candidacy, consultation conversations, recovery, technique, anatomy, and the reasons this procedure can bring so much relief for the right patient.

Dr. Mary Gingrass is a board-certified plastic surgeon in Nashville with more than 25 years of experience and a practice focused on cosmetic breast surgery and body contouring. A third-generation plastic surgeon, she is known for her patient education, revisionary breast implant surgery expertise, and national work teaching body contouring techniques.

Connect with Dr. Gingrass:

Mary Gingrass, M.D. at Plastic Surgery Center of Nashville

Dr. Melinda Haws is a board-certified plastic surgeon in Nashville who focuses on breast enhancement, body contouring, and helping patients address changes after pregnancy, weight loss, or aging. She brings a thoughtful, women-centered perspective to aesthetic surgery, with an emphasis on clear education and individualized care.

Connect with Dr. Haws:

Melinda Haws M.D. at Plastic Surgery Center of Nashville

Resources mentioned:

Petals Hardcover by Nick Karras

5 Things Women Should Know About Labiaplasty:

Discomfort is one of the most common reasons women ask about labiaplasty.
A consult should include a clear conversation about anatomy, goals, and what can safely be changed.
Recovery is usually measured in days for daily activity, with longer restrictions for exercise, sex, biking, and anything that creates friction.
Symmetry can improve, but natural anatomy still guides the final result.
The happiest patients tend to be informed, realistic, and clear on what they want to feel better about.

Dr. Bill Kortesis and Dr. Gaurav Bharti are board certified plastic surgeons and Co-Founders of HKB Cosmetic Surgery, an award-winning practice with ten locations across five states.

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27. Why Mentorship Matters in Plastic Surgery | The H/K/B Fellowship Experience with Dr. Harley Moit

Thu, 04 Jun 2026 06:00:00 -0400

Behind every great surgeon is training, mentorship, collaboration, and a commitment to getting better. In this episode, Dr. Bill Kortesis and Dr. Gaurav Bharti sit down with Dr. Harley Moit to talk about the H/K/B aesthetic surgery fellowship, what it means to train the next generation of plastic surgeons, and how mentorship shapes surgical skill, judgment, precision, and patient care. They also discuss what patients should know about fellows in the operating room, why collaboration can improve outcomes, and how young surgeons continue growing long after fellowship ends.

Dr. Harley Moit is a plastic surgeon at H/K/B Cosmetic Surgery in Charleston, South Carolina – Mount Pleasant and a former H/K/B aesthetic surgery fellow. His training includes general surgery residency at the University of Illinois at Peoria, plastic surgery residency at Indiana University, and advanced fellowship training in facial, breast, and body cosmetic surgery at H/K/B.

Connect with Dr. Moit:

Harley Moit, D.O. at H/K/B Cosmetic Surgery, Charleston, SC – Mount Pleasant

Resources mentioned:

ASAPS Fellowship Program - Advanced Cosmetic Surgery Training at H/K/B Cosmetic Surgery

In this episode you’ll learn:

Why fellowship training can help young plastic surgeons build confidence, technical skill, and sound surgical judgment
What patients should know about the role of fellows in surgery and how H/K/B maintains high standards of care
How mentorship, collaboration, and open case discussion help surgeons continue improving throughout their careers

Dr. Bill Kortesis and Dr. Gaurav Bharti are board certified plastic surgeons and Co-Founders of HKB Cosmetic Surgery, an award-winning practice with ten locations across five states.

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26. My Breast Implants Don’t Feel Like Me Anymore… Now What? | Breast Implant Revision Surgery with Dr. Wu

Thu, 28 May 2026 06:00:00 -0400

For a lot of women, breast implants matched a different phase of life. Years later, priorities shift, bodies change, and what once felt right may not feel like the best fit anymore. In this episode, Dr. Bill Kortesis, Dr. Gaurav Bharti, and Dr. Cindy Wu talk through the growing trend of downsizing or removing breast implants, why more patients are asking for a natural look, and what breast implant revision surgery actually involves. They break down common concerns like rippling, implants shifting into the armpit, capsular contracture, animation deformity, and implant longevity, while also explaining how newer techniques and devices are changing revision surgery outcomes. The conversation is honest, practical, and focused on helping patients understand their options without fear or pressure.

Dr. Cindy Wu is a double board-certified plastic surgeon at HKB Cosmetic Surgery in Greensboro and Chapel Hill, specializing in breast surgery, breast implant revision and removal, body contouring, fat grafting, and aesthetic procedures. With advanced fellowship training and over a decade in private practice, she brings a thoughtful, personalized approach to helping patients feel comfortable and confident in their results.

Connect with Dr. Wu:

Cindy Wu, M.D. at H/K/B Cosmetic Surgery, Greensboro & Chapel Hill

In this episode you’ll learn:

Why more women are downsizing or removing their breast implants
What surgeons mean when they talk about “ballerina breasts” and the shift toward more natural results
How to know when breast implants may need to be replaced or revised
The difference between aesthetic concerns and true implant complications
What revision surgery can involve, including lifts, fat grafting, mesh support, and pocket changes
Why revision surgery is more complex for surgeons, but often easier for patients during recovery
What information to bring to a breast revision consultation and how to think through your goals before surgery

Dr. Bill Kortesis and Dr. Gaurav Bharti are board certified plastic surgeons and Co-Founders of HKB Cosmetic Surgery, an award-winning practice with ten locations across five states.

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25. Modern Facelift Guide with Dr. Richard Kao: Deep Plane, Recovery, Scars & Natural Results

Thu, 21 May 2026 06:00:00 -0400

Facelift conversations have changed. Today’s patients are asking better questions: Am I ready for surgery, or can non-surgical treatments still help? What does a deep plane facelift actually do? Will I still look like myself? What should I expect from recovery, scarring, and long-term maintenance?

In this episode, Dr. Kortesis and Dr. Bharti sit down with Dr. Richard Kao to talk through the modern facelift experience: from deep plane techniques and natural-looking results to revision facelifts, men’s facial surgery, direct neck lifts, buccal fat removal, and the treatments that can support results over time. It’s a conversation about what facial rejuvenation can do, what it cannot do, and how surgeons think about creating balance across the whole face.

Dr. Richard Kao is a facial plastic surgeon and facial plastic surgery leader at H/K/B Cosmetic Surgery, bringing expertise in facelift and neck lift surgery, facial rejuvenation, and individualized treatment planning.

Connect with Dr. Kao:

Richard Kao, M.D. at H/K/B Cosmetic Surgery, Huntersville & Southpark

In this episode you’ll learn:

What is a deep plane facelift, and why does it matter?
How do you know when you may be ready for a facelift?
What does recovery really look like?
Where are facelift scars placed?
Can you have a second facelift later in life?
How are facelifts different for men?
When are non-surgical treatments still the better option?

Dr. Bill Kortesis and Dr. Gaurav Bharti are board certified plastic surgeons and Co-Founders of HKB Cosmetic Surgery, an award-winning practice with ten locations across five states.

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24. Smaller Breast Implants, Faster Recovery with Dr. Trent Douglas | Is the Preservé® Technique Right for You?

Thu, 14 May 2026 06:00:00 -0400

Breast augmentation is changing. More patients are asking for smaller, more natural-looking results, less downtime, and options that fit their lifestyle instead of feeling overly “done.” In this episode, Dr. Kortesis and Dr. Bharti sit down with Dr. Trent Douglas to talk about the Preservé® technique, a less invasive approach to breast enhancement using Motiva® implants that may be a fit for certain patients looking for subtle volume, natural proportions, and a faster recovery.

Dr. Trent Douglas is a plastic surgeon at HKB Cosmetic Surgery in Knoxville, Tennessee and an incoming president of The American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons, bringing deep expertise in aesthetic breast surgery, patient-centered care, and emerging surgical innovation.

Connect with Dr. Douglas:

In this episode, you’ll learn:

Why are more patients asking for smaller, more natural-looking results?
Who is the Preservé® technique actually right for?
Can breast enhancement be done with less downtime?
How does local anesthesia change the patient experience?
When is a more traditional breast augmentation or lift still the better option?

Dr. Bill Kortesis and Dr. Gaurav Bharti are board certified plastic surgeons and Co-Founders of HKB Cosmetic Surgery, an award-winning practice with ten locations across five states.

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23. Why Do I Still Look Pregnant? Loose Skin, Muscle Separation, & What Actually Works

Thu, 07 May 2026 06:00:00 -0400

A lot of women expect their body to bounce back after pregnancy, but for many, something still feels off. The stomach looks different, the core feels weaker, and no matter how consistent you are with workouts, it doesn’t fully change. In this episode, Dr. Bill Kortesis and Dr. Gaurav Bharti walk through what’s actually going on. They break down why the body changes the way it does after pregnancy, how to tell the difference between loose skin and muscle separation, and why that distinction matters when you’re thinking about treatment. The conversation covers everything from mini vs. full tummy tucks to small procedures like C-section scar revision, along with newer options that can be done with less downtime. If you’ve been trying to figure out what’s going on with your body, and what makes sense to do next, this is your place to start.

In this episode you’ll learn:

Why your stomach can still look pregnant months or years later, and why workouts alone don’t change it
The difference between a mini and full tummy tuck, and why the wrong choice can lead to disappointing results
What muscle separation actually does to your core, posture, and strength
Why that lower belly “ledge” or C-section shelf happens, and when a small procedure can fix it
How today’s approach to mommy makeovers focuses on natural, athletic results that feel like you
What recovery really feels like, including the part most patients aren’t prepared for
How to think about timing, planning, and getting the right support in place before surgery

Dr. Bill Kortesis and Dr. Gaurav Bharti are board certified plastic surgeons and Co-Founders of HKB Cosmetic Surgery, an award-winning practice with ten locations across five states.

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22. Do Men Get Plastic Surgery? What Men Are Really Asking For (and Why It’s Growing)

Thu, 30 Apr 2026 06:00:00 -0400

Male plastic surgery is no longer a niche conversation, it’s a growing, but still under-discussed, part of aesthetics. In this episode, Dr. Kortesis and Dr. Bharti break down what men are actually seeking, how their goals differ from women, and why subtle, natural-looking results matter more than ever. They also unpack the shift toward aesthetic “maintenance” and how wellness, skin care, and hair restoration are becoming part of the conversation.

Resources mentioned:

3 ways men are approaching plastic surgery differently than you might expect are:

Prioritizing subtle, “under-the-radar”, changes that don’t look obvious
Treating aging with ongoing maintenance (skin care, injectables, hair restoration)
Blending aesthetics with overall wellness instead of relying on one big procedure

Dr. Bill Kortesis and Dr. Gaurav Bharti are board certified plastic surgeons and Co-Founders of HKB Cosmetic Surgery, an award-winning practice with ten locations across five states.

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21. The Truth About Loose Skin After Weight Loss | What Surgery Can (and Can’t) Fix

Thu, 23 Apr 2026 06:00:00 -0400

Losing a significant amount of weight is an incredible achievement, but what people don’t always expect is what comes next. For many patients, excess skin becomes the final barrier between how they feel and how they want to look. In this episode, we’re breaking down what massive weight loss surgery actually involves, what patients should realistically expect, and why this process is almost never “one and done.” Dr. Shawna Kleban joins Dr. Kortesis and Dr. Bharti to walk through the full journey: from timing your surgery to understanding staging, recovery, scars, and results. This is one of the most honest conversations we’ve had about body contouring: what works, what doesn’t, and why experience matters more than most people realize.

Shawna R. Kleban, M.D. is a board-certified plastic surgeon and partner at HKB Cosmetic Surgery, specializing in massive weight loss body contouring and advanced 360-degree surgical techniques.

Connect with Dr. Kleban:

Shawna R. Kleban, M.D. at HKB Cosmetic Surgery

Some key takeaways from this episode include:

Why doing everything at once isn’t the goal, and how staging surgery actually leads to better results
The incision detail most patients overlook (and why it matters more than you think)
How surgeons decide what can safely be combined in a single procedure
What it’s really like to recover from body contouring surgery after massive weight loss
Why your body responds differently after weight loss… and what that means for your results
The real, behind-the-scenes of how surgeons plan complex, multi-stage transformations
How the GLP-1 boom is quietly changing the future of body contouring surgery
Dr. Kleban’s perspective on what it actually takes to become a plastic surgeon, and stay in it

Dr. Bill Kortesis and Dr. Gaurav Bharti are board certified plastic surgeons and Co-Founders of HKB Cosmetic Surgery, an award-winning practice with ten locations across five states.

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20. Not Happy With Your Results? What to Know About Revision Surgery

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 06:00:00 -0400

When a result doesn’t feel right after surgery, most people immediately start questioning everything… what happened, who’s at fault, and whether they need to fix it right away. In this episode, Dr. Kortesis and Dr. Bharti walk through what revision surgery actually looks like in real life, and why it’s often more nuanced than people expect. They break down the different reasons patients end up needing a second procedure, from normal healing and changing preferences to truly needing a correction. They talk through how to approach that moment thoughtfully, including when to go back to your original surgeon, when to seek another opinion, and why timing is often the most important (and most overlooked) factor. The conversation also gets into the emotional side of the process, the role of trust and communication, and why “perfect” isn’t the goal.

In this episode, we cover:

Why revision surgery doesn’t always mean something went wrong
What most patients don’t do before seeking a second opinion
Why “fixing it now” can actually make things worse
What it really takes to correct a complex result
Why “perfect” isn’t the goal… and never was

Dr. Bill Kortesis and Dr. Gaurav Bharti are board certified plastic surgeons and Co-Founders of HKB Cosmetic Surgery, an award-winning practice with ten locations across five states.

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19. The Truth About Preventative Aesthetics | How to Age Well Without Overdoing It

Thu, 09 Apr 2026 06:00:00 -0400

Most people think of “preventative” aesthetics as starting early with Botox or trying to stay ahead of aging. But in reality, it’s a lot less about doing more, and a lot more about doing the right things, at the right time, for the right reasons. In this conversation, Dr. Kortesis and Dr. Bharti take a step back and walk through what actually holds up over time: from the unsexy basics like diet, sun protection, and muscle, to how injectables, skin treatments, and even small procedures fit into a bigger, more thoughtful plan. It’s a grounded look at how to take care of your face and body in a way that still feels like you.

Resources mentioned:

Revision Skincare Products

In this episode you’ll learn…

Prevention and treatment aren’t separate decisions. They work best when layered together over time, combining lifestyle habits with the right treatments at the right stage.
The right provider matters more than the latest treatment; honest guidance and knowing what not to do is often what protects patients from poor outcomes.
Aging well today is less about big transformations and more about small, thoughtful interventions done earlier and maintained over time for a natural result.

Dr. Bill Kortesis and Dr. Gaurav Bharti are board certified plastic surgeons and Co-Founders of HKB Cosmetic Surgery, an award-winning practice with ten locations across five states.

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18. TikTok Made Me Do It | DIY Injectables, Filter Face, Overseas Surgery, and Social Media Lies

Thu, 02 Apr 2026 06:00:00 -0400

Social media has completely changed how people think about plastic surgery: what’s possible, what’s normal, and what they expect their results to look like. In this episode, we react to viral TikTok trends and break down what’s actually happening behind the scenes, from DIY injectables and at-home treatments to filters, celebrity influence, and overseas surgery. We walk through what’s real, what’s risky, and what people don’t always realize when they’re making decisions based on what they see online. If you’ve ever saved a video, considered a trend, or wondered “does this actually work?”, this episode will help you separate what’s worth exploring from what’s not.

In this episode, we cover:

The rise of DIY cosmetic treatments and why at-home injectables and threads are a hard no
What’s really happening in viral “extreme facelift” videos (and why they look so shocking)
How filters and AI are creating unrealistic expectations patients bring into consultations
The truth about dissolving filler at home and why it’s riskier than it looks
Why what you see online doesn’t always translate to real results
The risks of traveling abroad for surgery, and what patients need to consider
Why follower count doesn’t equal surgical skill (and how to actually evaluate a provider)
The pressure to look like someone else… and why that’s not the goal
Red flags to watch for when something seems “too good to be true” online

Dr. Bill Kortesis and Dr. Gaurav Bharti are board certified plastic surgeons and Co-Founders of HKB Cosmetic Surgery, an award-winning practice with ten locations across five states.

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17. Combination Procedures Explained | Mommy Makeovers, Safety Limits, Team Surgery, and What You Can (and Shouldn’t) Combine

Thu, 26 Mar 2026 05:00:00 -0400

Combination surgery can sound appealing – one surgery, one recovery, everything done at once. But what we’re seeing is that the best outcomes don’t come from doing more… they come from doing what actually makes sense. In this episode, we break down how we think about combining procedures: when it improves results, where the safety limits are, and how we guide patients through those decisions. If you’re trying to figure out whether to stage your procedures or combine them, this episode will help you understand the trade-offs and make a more informed choice.

In this episode, we cover:

Why patients choose combination procedures and the appeal of one recovery
How treating the “whole unit” leads to better, more natural results
The real safety limits: surgical time, fatigue, and how much can be done at once
How we plan surgeries for massive weight loss patients and why staging matters
Why we never pressure patients and how decision-making should actually work
The importance of customization, because no two surgical plans should look the same
How a team-based approach improves efficiency, safety, and outcomes

Dr. Bill Kortesis and Dr. Gaurav Bharti are board certified plastic surgeons and Co-Founders of HKB Cosmetic Surgery, an award-winning practice with ten locations across five states.

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16. Breast Implant Fatigue | Downsizing Implants, Breast Implant Illness, Capsular Contracture, and More

Thu, 19 Mar 2026 05:00:00 -0400

Over the last few years, Breast Implant Illness - or BII - has been a much-discussed topic on social media. In this episode, we’re covering a broader term we’ve coined as “breast implant fatigue.” Whether you’re no longer happy with your implant size, you feel you might have BII, or you’re experiencing pain around your implants, there are many valid reasons to reach out to your surgeon and discuss your options. In this episode, we discuss what we know about BII, who should have their implants removed, and who might just need a new device or adjustment for relief.

A few key takeaways from this episode include:

Breast implant devices were not meant to last forever. Over time, you may need a device exchange, breast lift, or other procedure. With almost every cosmetic surgery, you’re signing up for two or three surgeries over the course of your life to maintain your results.
Breast implant illness has been a hot topic, and the truth is it’s typically identified by ruling out everything else that could be causing adverse symptoms. There’s no guarantee that removing your implants will eliminate your symptoms.
At the end of the day, if you are unhappy with your breast implants for any reason, talk to your surgeon. If you’re no longer in touch with that surgeon or have moved, reach out to a local board-certified cosmetic surgeon to discuss your desired results.

Dr. Bill Kortesis and Dr. Gaurav Bharti are board certified plastic surgeons and Co-Founders of HKB Cosmetic Surgery, an award-winning practice with ten locations across five states.

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15. Cosmetic Surgery Myths | Fat Grafting, Recovery, BBLs, and More

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 06:00:00 -0400

Making a decision to get a cosmetic procedure should be based on facts and great conversations with your surgeon, but you might have heard some plastic surgery myths on social media that are giving you second thoughts. In this episode, we’re addressing some of those myths head-on to put your mind at ease. There are many more we could cover, so let us know in the comments on YouTube or Spotify if you liked this episode, or leave your own plastic surgery myths in the comments!

We debunk several myths in this episode, including:

Fat grafting is risk-free
BBLs are the same everywhere you get them
You can’t work with two surgeons at the same time
You should be able to jump into normal life immediately after surgery
Plastic surgery is always immediately noticeable
And many more!

Dr. Bill Kortesis and Dr. Gaurav Bharti are board certified plastic surgeons and Co-Founders of HKB Cosmetic Surgery, an award-winning practice with ten locations across five states.

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14. The Most Popular Procedures of 2025 & Cosmetic Trends We’ll See in 2026

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 06:00:00 -0500

As an award-winning plastic surgery practice with locations in six states, we see a wide range of plastic surgery cases. In this episode, we’re recapping the top procedures and trends we saw in 2025, what we think will be trending in 2026, and the newest advancements in plastic surgery you need to know about. Whether you’re interested in a cosmetic procedure for yourself, or you’re just trying to understand what you’re hearing about on social media, this episode is for you!

In this episode, we cover:

The procedures we performed the most in 2025
How we’ve seen the pendulum swing with fillers
The #1 skin tightening procedure we see in our practice
What we want people to know about GLP-1s in 2026
Innovations in fat grafting you can leverage for great results
The art of the preventative face lift
Maintaining results after a cosmetic procedure

Dr. Bill Kortesis and Dr. Gaurav Bharti are board certified plastic surgeons and Co-Founders of HKB Cosmetic Surgery, an award-winning practice with ten locations across five states.

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13. Live from Miami: Is Semaglutide Worth It?

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 13:00:00 -0500

Plastic surgeons have never been able to change patients’ lives as dramatically as they can today by combining aesthetic and well-being treatments. Drs. Bharti and Kortesis chat with Austin plastic surgeon Dr. Johnny Franco about the ‘Skinny Shot’ and the best modalities to combine with it to make patients healthy and happy.

It’s easy to love the simplicity of semaglutide, but when you lose weight drastically, you’ll start to get loose, lax skin. For a complete treatment that makes you look and feel great, it’s best to address skin laxity simultaneously with biostimulators like Sculptra, energy modalities like RF microneedling, and skin tightening treatments like Renuvion.

This episode was recorded live at The Aesthetic Meeting 2023.

Follow Dr. Johnny Franco on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/austinplasticsurgeon/

Dr. Bill Kortesis and Dr. Gaurav Bharti are board certified plastic surgeons and Co-Founders of HKB Cosmetic Surgery, an award-winning practice with ten locations across five states.

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12. Live from Miami: Who Shouldn't Have Surgery Under Local Anesthesia?

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 13:00:00 -0500

Some people avoid general anesthesia procedures because they don’t want to commit to the downtime, while others have a fear of not being in control of their own body.

If you’re one of these people, the good news is you can have procedures like face and neck lifts, blepharoplasty, and even liposuction under local anesthesia. But if you have a low pain tolerance and can’t handle needles, you probably shouldn’t rely on local for your cosmetic procedures.

Drs. Bharti and Kortesis outline the procedures which can easily be done under local, the benefits of choosing local over general anesthesia, and the limitations of local.

Dr. Bill Kortesis and Dr. Gaurav Bharti are board certified plastic surgeons and Co-Founders of HKB Cosmetic Surgery, an award-winning practice with ten locations across five states.

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11. Live from Miami: Hot Topics from The Aesthetic Meeting

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 13:00:00 -0500

Drs. Kortesis and Bharti share highlights from the recent aesthetic plastic surgery meeting, including the big takeaways from their courses and the answers to some controversial questions from audiences which included some of the premier thinkers in aesthetics.

Topics included breast implant fatigue, breast implant illness, avoiding unnecessary surgeries, and the internal bra technique with Galaflex.

Much like this podcast, the doctors recognize that the opportunity to share their experiences with other doctors is to uncomplicate the complicated procedures they do on a daily basis.

This episode was recorded live at The Aesthetic Meeting in Miami, Florida on April 22, 2023.

Learn more about The American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons https://www.theaestheticsociety.org/

Dr. Bill Kortesis and Dr. Gaurav Bharti are board certified plastic surgeons and Co-Founders of HKB Cosmetic Surgery, an award-winning practice with ten locations across five states.

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10. How Not to Choose Your Plastic Surgeon

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 13:00:00 -0500

Surgeons can fake reviews, doctor up pictures, and go incredible lengths to convince you they know what they’re doing. But an ethical plastic surgeon in a reputable practice doesn’t do any of that. They’re willing to talk to you and answer all your questions.

If a surgeon gets mad when you ask about their experience, you may want to look somewhere else. Go to someone who has done the procedure you’re considering hundreds of times and has the credentials to back it up.

Drs. Bharti and Kortesis share how to find the right surgeon for you, from the research process to the consultation. Find out the most important questions you should ask a surgeon when meeting them.

Dr. Bill Kortesis and Dr. Gaurav Bharti are board certified plastic surgeons and Co-Founders of HKB Cosmetic Surgery, an award-winning practice with ten locations across five states.

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9. How to Make Your Results Even Better

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 13:00:00 -0500

Continuing the discussion on how you can affect your results, Drs. Kortesis and Bharti take us through all the things you can do to get the best results possible out of your procedure.

Just because you get a facelift doesn't mean you stop taking care of your skin there. By taking a few simple steps before and after surgery, you open the doors to an incredible transformation.

Get the inside info on being as prepared as possible, healing quickly, and maintaining results.

Hear part 1 of this series, “How to Ruin Your Results” https://hkbsurgery.com/podcast-how-to-ruin-your-results/

Dr. Bill Kortesis and Dr. Gaurav Bharti are board certified plastic surgeons and Co-Founders of HKB Cosmetic Surgery, an award-winning practice with ten locations across five states.

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8. How to Ruin Your Results

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 13:00:00 -0500

There’s “active recovery” and then there’s surfing, skiing, swimming in the ocean a few days after surgery… and what about sex? Going to the gym? What are the acceptable levels of activity and risk in the days and weeks following surgery?

Don’t do something unnecessary to damage the investment you just made in yourself or worse, end up back in the operating room to fix something you could have prevented.

Drs. Kortesis and Bharti share what not to do if you want the best results possible out of your procedure, from the bedroom to the weight room.

Links
Read H/K/B’s blog on plastic surgery recovery tips
https://hkbsurgery.com/9-things-you-need-at-home-to-make-plastic-surgery-recovery-more-comfortable/

Dr. Bill Kortesis and Dr. Gaurav Bharti are board certified plastic surgeons and Co-Founders of HKB Cosmetic Surgery, an award-winning practice with ten locations across five states.

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7. The Challenges and Advantages of Being a Female Plastic Surgeon with Dr. Shawna Kleban

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 13:00:00 -0500

H/K/B’s brilliant female plastic surgeon Dr. Shawna Kleban joins Drs. Kortesis and Bharti to uncomplicate the stereotypes and differences in treatment women in plastic surgery sometimes face.

From getting called “nurse” in the hospital to being known as the “aggressively direct” female plastic surgeon, Dr. Kleban gives perspective on the challenges and differences women face in what has historically been a male-dominated field.

Find out why some patients prefer female plastic surgeons while others tend to not give them the same respect as their male counterparts, and hear Dr. Kleban’s invaluable advice for younger women considering a career in medicine.

Links

Meet Dr. Shawna Kleban
Learn more about H/K/B Cosmetic Surgery
Subscribe to the It's Complicated email list to be notified about new episodes
Follow us on Instagram @hkbcosmeticsurgery

Dr. Bill Kortesis and Dr. Gaurav Bharti are board certified plastic surgeons and Co-Founders of HKB Cosmetic Surgery, an award-winning practice with ten locations across five states.

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6. Avoiding the Face Lift

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 13:00:00 -0500

Many people make the mistake of waiting too long to take care of their face and neck. But the preferred approach to facial rejuvenation has changed in recent years.

To uncomplicate the inevitable process of the aging face, Drs. Kortesis and Bharti discuss the actions and treatments needed to avoid the big operation for as long as possible.

Find out what you can do along the way to avoid the “yo-yo” effect of looking old then suddenly young again and delay surgery much longer than was possible in the past, and hear the secrets of a patient in her 80’s who still looks like she’s in her 50’s.

Dr. Bill Kortesis and Dr. Gaurav Bharti are board certified plastic surgeons and Co-Founders of HKB Cosmetic Surgery, an award-winning practice with ten locations across five states.

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5. When Complications Happen

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 13:00:00 -0500

For anyone considering surgery, Drs. Kortesis and Bharti discuss the nature of complications in plastic surgery and how they’re handled, from the doctor’s point of view and the patient’s.

Complications in plastic surgery include hematomas, seromas, necrosis, or blood clots. Both surgeons have been in practice long enough to know that it’s a matter of predicting them, preventing them, and doing things by checklist. For any procedure, the goal is to make sure the benefits are high and the risks are much lower.

When complications do happen, the H/K/B way to handle them is to take a team approach.

In both life and in the operating room, sometimes you have to take an alternate route to get to your destination. A good, caring, experienced surgeon knows how to handle complications that arise to reach the best possible outcome.

Dr. Bill Kortesis and Dr. Gaurav Bharti are board certified plastic surgeons and Co-Founders of HKB Cosmetic Surgery, an award-winning practice with ten locations across five states.

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4. Uncomplicating The Complicated

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 13:00:00 -0500

Plastic surgeons (and best friends) Dr. Bill Kortesis and Dr. Gaurav Bharti team up on It’s Complicated to uncomplicate the mental and physical aspects of life and aesthetic surgery to help anyone who is committed to achieving their personal best. Through the real stories of past and present patients, they’ll share their unique vision for the future of aesthetic medicine and bring perspective from the leading edge of medicine, innovation, and entrepreneurship.

Dr. Bill Kortesis and Dr. Gaurav Bharti are board certified plastic surgeons and Co-Founders of HKB Cosmetic Surgery, an award-winning practice with ten locations across five states.

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3. The Unintended Consequences of Social Media

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 13:00:00 -0500

In the world of aesthetics, social media is a double-edged sword. Surgeons can use it to share patients’ results, but patients may be exposed to images or ideals from other sources that are not always achievable.

When people pose in particular ways and drastically edit their photos for social media, others may long to become something that’s not real or possible.

As trends come and go, many influencers and celebrities end up having reversal surgeries. But the more permanent the procedure, the more you need to be aware of the potential long-term issues.

Plastic surgeons Dr. Bill Kortesis and Dr. Gaurav Bharti uncomplicate the current rise in interest for procedures made popular by social media like buccal fat removal, breast shape, lip lift, the BBL, and more.

Dr. Bill Kortesis and Dr. Gaurav Bharti are board certified plastic surgeons and Co-Founders of HKB Cosmetic Surgery, an award-winning practice with ten locations across five states.

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2. A Look Forward at 2023

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 13:00:00 -0500

Although 2022 was a successful year full of happy patients, Dr. Bharti and Dr. Kortesis stand firmly by the idea that there’s always room for improvement.

While traveling together with their families, Dr. Bharti and Dr. Kortesis record this special episode away from home to reflect and share the wisdom they’re carrying forward into 2023 and preview the treatments and technologies they’re excited about introducing to patients.

Dr. Bill Kortesis and Dr. Gaurav Bharti are board certified plastic surgeons and Co-Founders of HKB Cosmetic Surgery, an award-winning practice with ten locations across five states.

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1. Who Gets to Decide What Is Beautiful?

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 13:00:00 -0500

Every day, people come to HKB Cosmetic Surgery saying “make me beautiful.” But what is beauty, after all? Dr. Bill Kortesis and Dr. Gaurav Bharti try to enhance the unique features that make their patients beautiful, not completely change them.

From their unique perspective as colleagues and best friends, the doctors uncomplicate everything that comes into play when it comes to beauty, from genetics and age to society’s pressures and where you are located in the world.

All of the plastic surgeons at H/K/B prioritize the mental health of their patients, especially when it’s clear someone feels pressured to fit a certain standard of beauty.
Learn what The H/K/B Way means and how they help ensure patients are mentally ready before making life-changing decisions.

Dr. Bill Kortesis and Dr. Gaurav Bharti are board certified plastic surgeons and Co-Founders of HKB Cosmetic Surgery, an award-winning practice with ten locations across five states.

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Welcome to HKB Uncut

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 11:00:00 -0500

Dr. Bill Kortesis and Dr. Gaurav Bharti are board certified plastic surgeons and Co-Founders of HKB Cosmetic Surgery, an award-winning practice with ten locations across five states.

Connect with HKB: