UnPHILtered With Dr. Philip Solomon

IPL vs Pico vs CO₂: Which Laser Actually Works for Anti-Aging? | The UnPhiltered PodcastAre IPL, Pico, Halo, CO₂ or Erbium lasers actually worth it for anti-aging — and how do you know which one is right for your skin? In today’s episode of The UnPhiltered Podcast, Dr. Philip Solomon breaks down the entire world of energy-based devices, from zero-downtime treatments to the most powerful resurfacing lasers we use in facial plastic surgery. We compare the most common options — IPL, Pico laser, microneedling RF, micro laser peels, CO₂ resurfacing and Erbium — and explain what each device is best suited for, including pigmentation, freckles, sun damage, texture, acne scars, fine lines, and deeper wrinkles. You’ll also learn the key differences between ablative vs non-ablative lasers, what “fractional” really means, how downtime changes with each device, and why certain lasers are safer for darker skin tones. Dr. Solomon also discusses how we combine technologies for better outcomes and shows real examples of how CO₂ and Erbium resurfacing can dramatically improve skin quality in a single treatment. Whether you're considering your first laser procedure or looking for the most effective option for your age and skin type, this episode breaks down what works, what doesn’t, and how to choose the safest, most effective treatment.Chapters:00:00 – Introduction: What Are Energy Devices?00:43 – The Three Categories of Aesthetic Medicine01:38 – Why We Use So Many Lasers at Solomon Facial Plastic02:16 – Light-Based Devices: IPL Explained (Benefits, Limitations)03:42 – Can IPL Treat Fine Lines and Wrinkles?04:10 – Treatment Frequency & Downtime for IPL04:36 – Pico Laser: How It Works & Who It's For05:21 – How Many Pico Laser Sessions Do You Need?06:05 – Pico Laser for Darker Skin Tones (Safety Advantages)06:35 – Combining Pico with Microneedling RF (Morpheus)06:42 – Entry-Level Resurfacing: NanoPeel & Micro Laser Peel07:04 – Ablative vs Non-Ablative Lasers (Key Differences)08:32 – Understanding Laser “Depth” & Controlled Burns09:14 – ProFractional, Fraxel & Other Fractional Devices09:48 – Why Skin Type and Downtime Matter Most10:24 – Micro Laser Peel Results & When It's Worth It11:10 – The Laser Pyramid: From IPL to CO₂11:44 – Treating Acne Scars: Why No Single Device Works12:20 – Best Lasers by Age Group (30s, 40s, 50+)13:08 – CO₂ Lasers: Downtime, Settings & Customization13:45 – CO₂ Before & After Case: Freckles, Texture, Pores14:42 – Combining CO₂ and Erbium for Advanced Aging15:30 – Why Erbium Is Best for Lip Lines & Smoker Lines16:13 – CO₂ for Eyelid Tightening (Non-Surgical Blepharoplasty)16:41 – Why We Combine Multiple Laser Devices16:45 – Halo Laser Explained (Benefits & Downtime)17:34 – The Real Challenge: Laser Downtime17:56 – Laser Season: Why Winter Is Best for Treatment18:31 – Sun Exposure After Lasers: Risks & Precautions19:10 – Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Laser for Your Skin#laserresurfacing #co2laser #picolaser #facialaesthetics #plasticsurgery #facialplasticsurgery #facialplasticsurgeon #plasticsurgeon #drsolomon #theunphilteredpodcast

In this powerful and personal episode of UnPhiltered, Dr. Phil Solomon sits down with one of his longtime patients to discuss an incredible transformation — a deep plane facelift performed in the patient’s late 60s.With honesty and vulnerability, our guest shares what led him to pursue facial rejuvenation later in life, the fears he had going into surgery, and how the deep plane technique restored not only his appearance — but his confidence. Together, they unpack the emotional and physical aspects of aging, the decision-making process behind choosing surgery, and the recovery journey that followed.Dr. Solomon offers insight into the deep plane facelift procedure, how it differs from traditional techniques, and why it’s often the gold standard for achieving natural, long-lasting results.This episode is a must-listen for anyone curious about the intersection of aging, identity, and modern aesthetic medicine.Because it’s never too late to look — and feel — like yourself again.#UnPhilteredPodcast #DrSolomon #DeepPlaneFacelift #FacialRejuvenation #AgingWell #CosmeticSurgery #MenAndAesthetics #PatientStories

In this Q&A episode of UnPhiltered with Dr. Phil Solomon, Dr. Solomon answers the most common questions about facelifts and facial rejuvenation procedures. From traditional to mini facelifts, he breaks down what each option entails, who they’re best suited for, and what results patients can expect. Listeners will gain a clear understanding of the surgical process, recovery timelines, and how these techniques can restore a more youthful, natural appearance.

In this episode of "UnPhiltered With Dr. Solomon," the focus is on the increasingly popular cosmetic procedure known as lip lifting. Dr. Solomon delves into the intricacies of the lip lift, discussing what the procedure entails, its benefits, and the limitations that potential candidates should consider. He explains the various techniques used, including the sub-nasal lip lift and corner lip lift, and shares insights on patient anatomy, ideal candidates, and the expected outcomes.00:00 - Introduction to lip lifts01:01 - Overview of the lip lift procedure02:10 - Surgical techniques and incision types03:30 - Considerations for candidacy04:50 - Risks and concerns with corner lip lifts05:40 - What a lip lift can and cannot do06:30 - Patient demographics and satisfaction rates08:00 - Examples of ideal candidates09:30 - Proportions and aesthetic balance10:30 - Enhancing the cupid's bow11:30 - Managing filler before and after surgery12:40 - Scarring and healing process13:50 - Conclusion and final thoughts on lip lifts

In this episode of UnPHILtered, Dr. Phil Solomon engages in a dynamic discussion with Dr. Melissa Hirshberg, diving into the nuances of longevity and wellness. They explore the rising trend of IV therapy in aesthetic clinics, weighing its perceived benefits against the scientific evidence surrounding vitamin infusions. The conversation shifts to the impact of weight loss medications like Ozempic on collagen and facial aging, coining the term "Ozempic face" to describe the effects of rapid weight loss. Dr. Hirshberg shares insights on maintaining collagen through diet, supplements, and aesthetic treatments, while also addressing the importance of a holistic approach to health and fitness. The episode wraps up with practical tips for staying active and healthy, emphasizing that true wellness encompasses a combination of lifestyle choices and medical interventions.IV Therapy Discussion (00:01)Patient Population and Outcomes (02:30)GLP-1 Medications and Anesthesia (03:47 - 04:58)Ozempic Face Phenomenon (06:08 - 07:25)Collagen Preservation Strategies (07:25 - 08:34)Vision and Anti-Aging Innovations (09:46 - 10:47)Red Light Therapy (10:47 - 11:52)Fitness and Exercise Protocols (13:01 - 15:10)

In this episode of UnPhiltered, host Dr. Phil Solomon welcomes Dr. Melissa Hirschberg, a specialist in longevity and anti-aging. The conversation delves into the intersection of beauty and health, exploring common concerns related to aging, hormone replacement therapy for both men and women, and the impact of weight loss medications like Ozempic on the aging process. Dr. Hirschberg shares insights on how lifestyle changes can reverse some effects of aging, the importance of maintaining muscle mass and collagen, and the emerging role of GLP-1 inhibitors in promoting longevity. The discussion also touches on the benefits and considerations of IV therapy and the psychological aspects of wellness treatments. Tune in for an informative dialogue that challenges conventional views on aging and health.

In this episode of UnPhiltered with Dr. Solomon, we dive deep into the world of aesthetic medicine, focusing on the use of fillers and biostimulants. Joined by nurse Hannah, a passionate expert in the field, the discussion explores the evolution of filler treatments, their longevity, and the importance of skilled application. They address common misconceptions, the significance of understanding facial anatomy, and the balance between non-surgical and surgical options.Introduction and Background (01:15)Filler Fundamentals (02:29)Product Evolution and Safety (03:49)Common Complications and Management (06:30)Industry Trends and Market Shifts (10:20)Surgical Considerations (12:49)Under-Eye Treatment Evolution (18:16)Reversal and Correction (21:03)Personal Treatment Philosophy (22:27)Final Treatment Approach (23:43)

In this episode of UnPHILtered, Dr. Solomon engages in an insightful discussion with Nurse Vesta, a seasoned nurse injector and educator in the field of aesthetic treatments. They delve into the nuances of Botox and fillers, clarifying the differences between these popular treatments and their applications in facial aesthetics. Introduction and Overview (01:08)Understanding Neuromodulators (02:30)Treatment Areas and Applications (03:41)Patient Expectations and Limitations (04:56)Brow Lift Considerations (07:35)Clinic Advantages and Comprehensive Care (10:03)Timing and Preventative Treatment (12:32)Gender-Specific Dosing (14:44)Treatment Protocol and Touch-ups (18:16)Complications and Risks (22:00)Post-Treatment Care and Product Fatigue (23:15)Energy Devices - Pico Laser (28:06)

In this episode of "Unfiltered," Dr. Solomon engages in an insightful discussion with Habibe, a 27-year-old patient who recently underwent closed rhinoplasty and CO2 laser resurfacing. They explore the evolving techniques in rhinoplasty, the reasons patients choose to have surgery in Canada over Turkey, and the importance of post-operative care. Habibe shares her personal journey, highlighting her decision to trust a Canadian surgeon based on recommendations and results seen on social media. The conversation also delves into the nuances of different skin types and surgical techniques, emphasizing the significance of choosing the right surgeon for individual needs. Overall, the episode offers valuable insights into cosmetic surgery and the patient experience.Chapters:Patient Introduction & Background (01:07)Medical Tourism to Turkey - Procedures & Economics (05:08)Surgical Techniques & Skin Type Considerations (11:16)Habibe's Specific Procedures (14:51)Complications & Aftercare Considerations (08:41)