China’s “Bubble Face” Problem

Somewhere in China, a woman woke up looking like someone else. She had paid for a rounder, more youthful look, and for a few months it worked — then the tissue kept expanding. Cells that were told to divide were never told to quit. Dr. Hillary Jenny explains what is actually happening under the skin, and why lipomas buried in the facial muscle are the part nobody gets warned about.Dr. Jenny joins Dr. Christopher Chang for her first episode, fresh off a Hopkins residency and an aesthetic fellowship in Beverly Hills. In Classified, a mom finds a clinic willing to prescribe growth hormone for her perfectly healthy 13-year-old — a kid who has never once asked for it. They also get into what to ask when someone wants a treatment that is only legal overseas, why exosomes belong on top of the skin and never under it, and the growth factor already being sold for under-eyes in the US: the same molecule surgeons have put on diabetic foot ulcers for 20 years, carrying a black box warning for malignant transformation. Nothing that grows tissue only grows the tissue you asked for.South China Morning Post, China dad’s growth hormone investment for daughter sparks debate over societal pressureInstagram, Bubble face trend HOSTSJackie O’Brien RN, BSN, CNORClinical Director at Cedar Lane Surgery CenterWith 12 years of OR experience and training at Georgetown University Hospital, Jackie brings expert-level knowledge in plastic, trauma, general, vascular, and ophthalmic surgery. A proud George Mason alum and CNOR-certified perfectionist, she leads with passion, precision, and a love for all things surgical. Off the clock, she’s exploring new restaurants, hitting concerts and wineries, or hanging out with her cat—Biggie Smalls, the real boss at home.Christopher Chang, MDPlastic SurgeonConsidered to be one of the top plastic surgeons in DC, Dr. Chang specializes in facial and breast augmentation surgery and has acquired several advanced degrees and training from some of the most selective universities in the country. Double board certified in plastic and facial plastic surgery, with specialized experience in facial surgery and pediatric reconstruction, Dr. Chang prioritizes precision over trends and thoughtful care over pressure. Based in Washington, DC, he serves a diverse community, respecting each patient’s preferences for discretion, communication, and natural-looking results.GUESTHillary Jenny, MD, MPHPlastic SurgeonDr. Hillary Jenny is a plastic surgeon at Congressional Plastic Surgery specializing in head-to-toe aesthetic surgery, with particular interest in rhinoplasty, facelift, and mommy makeovers. She graduated with honors from MIT with a double major in neuroscience and music, earned her MD and MPH at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, completed her plastic surgery residency at Johns Hopkins, and trained in aesthetic surgery in Beverly Hills before returning to Northern Virginia.About Secret ServicesIn DC, everyone has secrets — especially when it comes to cosmetic surgery. Plastic surgeon Dr. Christopher Chang and his sharp-witted team see everything and say nothing — except on this podcast, where every week you’ll get answers to confidential patient questions. Because in an era when aging gracefully and looking natural is easier than ever, it all depends on who you know—and what they’re willing to tell you.LinksLearn more about Washington, D.C. plastic surgeon Dr. Christopher ChangFollow Dr. Chang on Instagram @dcplasticsurgeon and @congressionalplasticsurgeryAnd on TikTok @congressionalpsurgeryHost: Christopher Chang, MDProducer: Eva Sheie @ The AxisAssistant Producers: Mary Ellen Clarkson & Laura MayusaEngineering: Chris MannTheme music: Harry’s Perfume - Harry EdvinoCover Art: Dan ChildsSecret Services is a production of The Axis