Your "Board Certified" Surgeon Might Not Be Who You Think

A woman in Richmond went in to have her implants removed. She came out of surgery without her breasts. Dr. Chang and Jackie pull apart what actually happened — and what it reveals about how the words "board certified" can mean almost anything.The anonymous question this episode answers: how do you evaluate a surgeon when your insurance only covers a handful of options? Dr. Chang breaks down the difference between the American Board of Plastic Surgery and the half-dozen other "boards" out there (yes, he could make one called the Board of Chang Plastic Surgery), why breast cancer care needs two surgeons with opposite goals, and the quiet local nurse network that already knows who's good.Jackie weighs in on what it feels like in an OR when something is going wrong. Plus: how Dr. Sasa Grae Espino reportedly kept operating while the Virginia Medical Board sat on multiple complaints, before 29 women filed suit.Source: WTRV, Nurse files $25M lawsuit against Virginia breast surgeon: 'I see Frankenstein'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.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 @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: theaxis.io