PRS Beyond the Pages: The Plastic Surgery Editors' Podcast

In this episode of PRS Beyond the Pages: The Plastic Surgery Editors' Podcast, "Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery" Editor-in-Chief Samuel J. Lin, MD, MBA, speaks with Dr. Justine Lee, MD, PhD about lab bench research, her very first surgical rotation, and what led her to pursue plastic surgery. Their conversation explores her medical school journey, decision to pursue a PhD, and mentors throughout her career.   Dr. Justine Lee, MD, PhD is a nationally recognized craniofacial and plastic surgeon and surgeon-scientist at UCLA and PRS Experimental section editor. She serves as Professor, Associate Chief, and the Bernard G. Sarnat Endowed Chair in Craniofacial Biology in the Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery at the UCLA David Geffen School of Medicine. A Los Angeles native, she earned her undergraduate degree at the University of California, Los Angeles. She then completed her MD and PhD at the University of Chicago through the NIH-funded Medical Scientist Training Program, and stayed at the University of Chicago for her combined plastic and reconstructive surgery residency. She returned to UCLA for advanced craniofacial surgery fellowship training as the 34th Henry Kawamoto Craniofacial Fellow and joined the faculty afterward. Dr. Lee is a recognized expert in facial gender-affirming surgery, craniofacial surgery, and regenerative biomaterials, and she is the founding Director of the UCLA Facial Gender-Affirming Surgery Fellowship. Her research program covers both basic and clinical investigation. The Lee Craniofacial Regeneration Laboratory develops safe, simple, and surgically practical biomaterials for regenerating the craniofacial skeleton, with continuous NIH support. The Lee Craniofacial Outcomes Research Team studies long-term outcomes of craniofacial surgery, with a particular focus on identifying and improving psychosocial functioning in children with congenital craniofacial differences. Her scientific contributions earned her the 2024 Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers (PECASE), the highest honor the United States government gives early-career scientists and engineers. She has also received numerous grants, research awards, and teaching scholar awards over her career.   PRS Beyond the Pages: The Plastic Surgery Editors' Podcast is hosted by Samuel J. Lin, MD, MBA, Editor-in-Chief of "Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery." Each episode goes beyond the published research for in-depth conversations with the authors, editors, and experts advancing plastic surgery.   The views expressed by hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official policies or positions of ASPS.  

In this episode of PRS Beyond the Pages: The Plastic Surgery Editors' Podcast, "Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery" Editor-in-Chief Samuel J. Lin, MD, MBA, speaks with Michele Shermak, MD, about the importance of seeing board-certified plastic surgeons and the advice she would give to plastic surgeons just beginning their careers. Dr. Shermak explains how board certification protects patients at every stage of care, from the initial consultation through recovery. She also reflects on the value of staying engaged in the field and building relationships throughout one's career—offering practical guidance for early-career surgeons on finding mentorship and community.   Michele Shermak is nationally recognized for her expertise in breast and body contouring. She completed her plastic surgery training at the Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center and remains connected to the institution through her role as an Associate professor at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine and a part-time faculty appointment within its Department of Plastic Surgery. She is board-certified in plastic surgery and currently practices in private practice in Lutherville, Maryland. In addition to her clinical work, she serves as a co-editor of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, is editor-in-chief for Plastic Surgery News (PSN), is a member of the Board of Directors of the American Board of Plastic Surgery, and is actively involved in both the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) and the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS). Through her leadership, research, and educational contributions, she has made a significant impact on the field of plastic and reconstructive surgery.   https://www.drshermak.com/about/dr-shermak/   PRS Beyond the Pages: The Plastic Surgery Editors' Podcast is hosted by Samuel J. Lin, MD, MBA, Editor-in-Chief of "Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery." Each episode goes beyond the published research for in-depth conversations with the authors, editors, and experts advancing plastic surgery.   The views expressed by hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official policies or positions of ASPS.

In this episode of PRS Beyond the Pages: The Plastic Surgery Editors' Podcast, "Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery" Editor-in-Chief Samuel J. Lin, MD, MBA, speaks with Evan Matros, MD about his introduction to plastic surgery, moments that changed his practice, the significance of the 80th Anniversary of the journal, and identifying high-quality research in the Breast section of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. Their conversation explores his upbringing, early medical training, the legacies of previous Editors-in-Chief, and so much more!    Evan Matros is an accomplished, board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York City, currently serves as Professor of Surgery at Weill Cornell Medical College, and is Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery's Breast Section Editor. He earned his undergraduate degree at the University of Pennsylvania and his medical degree from the University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine, and went on to complete a Master of Medical Science at Harvard Medical School and a Master of Public Health at Columbia University. He completed his general surgery residency at Brigham and Women's Hospital/Harvard Medical School and his plastic surgery residency through the Harvard Plastic Surgery program, followed by a microsurgery fellowship at Memorial Sloan Kettering, where he subsequently joined the faculty. In addition to his clinical role, he serves as Director of the Microsurgery Fellowship Program. Dr. Matros's clinical practice focuses on reconstruction following cancer surgery, with particular expertise in autologous breast reconstruction, head and neck reconstruction, and extremity reconstruction. His research spans health services research in breast reconstruction, healthcare disparities and payment policy within plastic surgery, and patient-reported quality-of-life outcomes after head and neck reconstruction, and he has authored a large body of peer-reviewed work in reconstructive microsurgery. His national leadership includes serving as President of the American Society for Reconstructive Microsurgery and President of the Northeastern Society of Plastic Surgeons, and he has been inducted into the American Surgical Association. PRS Beyond the Pages: The Plastic Surgery Editors' Podcast is hosted by Samuel J. Lin, MD, MBA, Editor-in-Chief of "Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery." Each episode goes beyond the published research for in-depth conversations with the authors, editors, and experts advancing plastic surgery.   The views expressed by hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official policies or positions of ASPS.   This episode was recorded August 4th, 2026.

In this episode of PRS Beyond the Pages: The Plastic Surgery Editors' Podcast, "Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery" Editor-in-Chief Samuel J. Lin, MD, MBA, speaks with Alan Matarasso, MD about what makes quality research, the 80th anniversary of the journal, and favorite PRS articles. They discuss the importance of the journal's rigorous review process, prior contributions of Dr. Matarasso to the journal, and prioritizing our patients' interests at all stages of the research process.    Alan Matarasso is a highly accomplished aesthetic plastic surgeon operating out of New York City and currently serving as co-editor for Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. He completed training in both general and plastic surgery at Albert Einstein College of Medicine–Montefiore Hospital and later pursued a cosmetic surgery fellowship at Manhattan Eye, Ear and Throat Hospital affiliated with New York University Medical Center. Throughout his academic career, he has held senior faculty appointments, including Clinical Professor positions at Albert Einstein College of Medicine and the Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell Health, where he also serves as Systems Chief of Cosmetic Surgery. Dr. Matarasso has made substantial scholarly contributions, authoring hundreds of articles, book chapters, and monographs, editing major plastic surgery textbooks, and presenting extensively at national and international meetings. His professional leadership includes serving as President of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, President of The Plastic Surgery Foundation, and President of The Rhinoplasty Society, among other national and international positions. In addition to his clinical and academic work, he supports education and service through nonprofit board participation and mentorship opportunities for students interested in medicine.   PRS Beyond the Pages: The Plastic Surgery Editors' Podcast is hosted by Samuel J. Lin, MD, MBA, Editor-in-Chief of "Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery." Each episode goes beyond the published research for in-depth conversations with the authors, editors, and experts advancing plastic surgery.   The views expressed by hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official policies or positions of ASPS.   This episode was recorded July 23rd, 2026.

In this episode of PRS Beyond the Pages: The Plastic Surgery Editors' Podcast, "Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery" Editor-in-Chief Samuel J. Lin, MD, MBA, speaks with Dr. Ivona Percec, MD, PhD, about her research background, the current state of hyaluronic acid filler, and the importance of finding a safe injector. Their conversation explores important findings around filler usage, understanding topics such as filler fatigue and perception distortion, and valuable advice for patients seeking filler. This episode features the "Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery" articles:  "Introduction to 'Fillers: The State of the Science—A Multispecialty Evidence-Based Initiative'" by Percec and Yu And "Managing Injectable Fillers in the Long-Term Aesthetic Patient: Contemporary Approaches and Surgical Considerations" by Malphrus, Mess, Montes, and Percec READ the articles discussed in this episode today:  https://www.ovid.com/10.1097/PRS.0000000000012316 https://www.ovid.com/10.1097/PRS.0000000000012315 Dr. Ivona Percec, MD, PhD, is a plastic surgeon and Director of Cosmetic Surgery at the University of Pennsylvania. Her practice focuses on treating the whole person, understanding each patient's unique needs to deliver results that extend beyond the physical to positively impact their psychological well-being. Dr. Percec combines precision, creativity, and meticulous attention to detail in her aesthetic treatments, ranging from simple procedures like laser therapy and injections to more comprehensive surgical options. https://www.pennmedicine.org/providers/ivona-percec PRS Beyond the Pages: The Plastic Surgery Editors' Podcast is hosted by Samuel J. Lin, MD, MBA, Editor-in-Chief of "Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery." Each episode goes beyond the published research for in-depth conversations with the authors, editors, and experts advancing plastic surgery. The views expressed by hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official policies or positions of ASPS.

In this episode of PRS Beyond the Pages: The Plastic Surgery Editors' Podcast, "Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery" Editor-in-Chief Samuel J. Lin, MD, MBA, speaks with Michele Shermak, MD about combatting misinformation in plastic surgery, the journal's rigorous review process, and the value of continued quality research. Their conversation touches on the importance of board certification and maintaining patient safety in injectables and cosmetic surgery. Michele Shermak is nationally recognized for her expertise in breast and body contouring. She completed her plastic surgery training at the Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center and remains connected to the institution through her role as an Associate professor at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine and a part-time faculty appointment within its Department of Plastic Surgery. She is board-certified in plastic surgery and currently practices in private practice in Lutherville, Maryland. In addition to her clinical work, she serves as a co-editor of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, is editor-in-chief for Plastic Surgery News (PSN), is a member of the Board of Directors of the American Board of Plastic Surgery, and is actively involved in both the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) and the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS). Through her leadership, research, and educational contributions, she has made a significant impact on the field of plastic and reconstructive surgery. https://www.drshermak.com/about/dr-shermak/ PRS Beyond the Pages: The Plastic Surgery Editors' Podcast is hosted by Samuel J. Lin, MD, MBA, Editor-in-Chief of "Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery." Each episode goes beyond the published research for in-depth conversations with the authors, editors, and experts advancing plastic surgery. The views expressed by hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official policies or positions of ASPS.

In this episode of PRS Beyond the Pages: The Plastic Surgery Editors' Podcast, "Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery" Editor-in-Chief Samuel J. Lin, MD, MBA, speaks with Alan Matarasso, MD about his introduction to and journey in plastic surgery. Their conversation explores reflections on different parts of his career and all those who influenced it in various ways. Alan Matarasso is a highly accomplished aesthetic plastic surgeon operating out of New York City and currently serving as co-editor for Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. He completed training in both general and plastic surgery at Albert Einstein College of Medicine–Montefiore Hospital and later pursued a cosmetic surgery fellowship at Manhattan Eye, Ear and Throat Hospital affiliated with New York University Medical Center. Throughout his academic career, he has held senior faculty appointments, including Clinical Professor positions at Albert Einstein College of Medicine and the Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell Health, where he also serves as Systems Chief of Cosmetic Surgery. Dr. Matarasso has made substantial scholarly contributions, authoring hundreds of articles, book chapters, and monographs, editing major plastic surgery textbooks, and presenting extensively at national and international meetings. His professional leadership includes serving as President of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, President of The Plastic Surgery Foundation, and President of The Rhinoplasty Society, among other national and international positions. In addition to his clinical and academic work, he supports education and service through nonprofit board participation and mentorship opportunities for students interested in medicine. PRS Beyond the Pages: The Plastic Surgery Editors' Podcast is hosted by Samuel J. Lin, MD, MBA, Editor-in-Chief of "Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery." Each episode goes beyond the published research for in-depth conversations with the authors, editors, and experts advancing plastic surgery. The views expressed by hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official policies or positions of ASPS. This episode was recorded on July 24, 2026.

In this episode of PRS Beyond the Pages: The Plastic Surgery Editors' Podcast, "Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery" Editor-in-Chief Samuel J. Lin, MD, MBA, speaks with Rod J. Rohrich, MD about areas of research within plastic surgery where there are opportunities for further research and discovery, what are trends within plastic surgery the public should be aware of, and his advice for plastic surgeons early in their careers. Dr. Rod J. Rohrich is an internationally known, highly respected and skilled plastic surgeon with a global clinical practice at Dallas Plastic Surgery Institute in Dallas, Texas. He is also a Clinical Professor of Plastic Surgery at the Baylor College of Medicine. He is board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and has led most of the key professional organizations in plastic surgery in the USA. Dr. Rohrich has been honored by his peers to be one of the most influential physicians and plastic surgeons in this current era. https://drrohrich.com/ PRS Beyond the Pages: The Plastic Surgery Editors' Podcast is hosted by Samuel J. Lin, MD, MBA, Editor-in-Chief of "Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery." Each episode goes beyond the published research for in-depth conversations with the authors, editors, and experts advancing plastic surgery. The views expressed by hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official policies or positions of ASPS.

In this episode of PRS Beyond the Pages: The Plastic Surgery Editors' Podcast, "Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery" Editor-in-Chief Samuel J. Lin, MD, MBA, speaks with Michele Shermak, MD about her introduction into the field of plastic surgery and key moments in her career. Their conversation explores her journey through medical school, work with Ben Carson, MD, and how she became interested in working with patients following major weight loss while at Johns Hopkins. Michele Shermak is nationally recognized for her expertise in breast and body contouring. She completed her plastic surgery training at the Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center and remains connected to the institution through her role as an Associate professor at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine and a part-time faculty appointment within its Department of Plastic Surgery. She is board-certified in plastic surgery and currently practices in private practice in Lutherville, Maryland. In addition to her clinical work, she serves as a co-editor of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, is editor-in-chief for Plastic Surgery News (PSN), is a member of the Board of Directors of the American Board of Plastic Surgery, and is actively involved in both the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) and the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS). Through her leadership, research, and educational contributions, she has made a significant impact on the field of plastic and reconstructive surgery. https://www.drshermak.com/about/dr-shermak/ PRS Beyond the Pages: The Plastic Surgery Editors' Podcast is hosted by Samuel J. Lin, MD, MBA, Editor-in-Chief of "Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery." Each episode goes beyond the published research for in-depth conversations with the authors, editors, and experts advancing plastic surgery. The views expressed by hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official policies or positions of ASPS.

In this episode of PRS Beyond the Pages: The Plastic Surgery Editors' Podcast, "Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery" Editor-in-Chief Samuel J. Lin, MD, MBA, speaks with Rod J. Rohrich, MD about his most fulfilling roles, what initially drew him to rhinoplasty, and what he sees for the future. Their conversation explores topics ranging from family life and fatherhood to artificial intelligence and social media. Dr. Rod J. Rohrich is an internationally known, highly respected and skilled plastic surgeon with a global clinical practice at Dallas Plastic Surgery Institute in Dallas, Texas. He is also a Clinical Professor of Plastic Surgery at the Baylor College of Medicine. He is board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and has led most of the key professional organizations in plastic surgery in the USA. Dr. Rohrich has been honored by his peers to be one of the most influential physicians and plastic surgeons in this current era. https://drrohrich.com/ PRS Beyond the Pages: The Plastic Surgery Editors' Podcast is hosted by Samuel J. Lin, MD, MBA, Editor-in-Chief of "Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery." Each episode goes beyond the published research for in-depth conversations with the authors, editors, and experts advancing plastic surgery. The views expressed by hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official policies or positions of ASPS.