Behind the Scalpel: Dr. Smriti Nathani on the Art of Cosmetic Surgery

An interview with Dr. Smriti Nathani, Consultant Plastic and Cosmetic Surgeon at Tamira Aesthetic Healthcare in Chennai

In this insightful interview, we connect with Dr. Smriti Nathani, Consultant Plastic and Cosmetic Surgeon at Tamira Aesthetic Healthcare in Chennai.

She shares her journey, the latest trends in cosmetic surgery, and her commitment to patient safety and satisfaction.

Can you share your journey into the field of plastic and cosmetic surgery and what inspired you to specialize in this area?

Dr. Smriti Nathani: From the very beginning of my medical training, i wanted to be a surgeon. After MBBS during my internship, I saw firsthand how reconstructive and aesthetic procedures could transform not just a person’s appearance but their self-worth and confidence.

That impact moved me deeply. I was fascinated by the intricate blend of science, artistry, and human connection that plastic surgery demands. Obviously I chose Plastic & reconstructive surgery as a Super Speciality.

It was satisfying how managing a small thing like suturing cut over a kids face with skill to bigger things like trauma and facial reconstruction brought a great deal of change in the individual’s life. It gave a great sense of satisfaction and fullfilment.

Over time, I gravitated toward cosmetic surgery, i did specialised fellowships in Hair transplant, body contouring , breast surgeries, LASER and Non surgical aesthetics to elevate my skills further.

Being an Aesthetic Plastic Surgeon gave me an opportunity to understand my patients at a deeper level, connect more and help people feel more aligned with how they see or feel for themselves.

Whether it’s restoring what time or circumstances have altered, or enhancing features to reflect an individual’s sense of beauty, normalcy, and body image, I find it incredibly fulfilling to play a role in such positive life changes.

What are some of the most common procedures you perform, and how do you ensure patient safety and satisfaction?

Dr. Smriti Nathani: In my practice, I commonly perform body contouring surgeries—like advanced and HD liposuction, Gynecomastia, Tummy tuck (Abdominoplasty), Breast surgeries like Breast Reduction or Augmentation, Vaginal Rejuvenation, Mommy makeovers, Hair transplant & restoration treatments, and non-surgical facial rejuvenation including injectables, LASERS and energy-based devices for anti aging and scar modulation. 

In recent years, I’ve also developed a special interest and gained further expertise in women’s wellness procedures, such as non surgical vaginal rejuvenation and treatment for urinary incontinence in post partum and peri menopausal women, which is an area still under-discussed but very impactful for women’s health and confidence and is very close to my heart as being a female plastic surgeon, i always wanted to do something exceptional for women in the society. 

Patient safety is truly the mantra I live by. It comes before everything else, and I’d like to explain why.

For me, safety has even more significance in aesthetic surgery because most of my patients are not coming to me because they are unwell or suffering from disease.

They are healthy individuals who wish to correct an anatomical difference, address a perceived shortcoming, or enhance a feature of their body or personality. This makes it absolutely essential that any procedure—be it surgery, anaesthesia, or medication—does not compromise their overall health in any way.

Ensuring safety begins long before the day of surgery. I spend a lot of time in thorough consultations, detailed medical assessments, and honest discussions about expectations, limitations, and risks.

I work with an experienced team of anaesthesiologists and follow a strict pre-operative protocol to confirm complete fitness and readiness.

During surgery, we maintain the highest standards of sterility and use only validated, evidence-based techniques and technologies. After the procedure, meticulous follow-up and being easily accessible to my patients are equally important for safe recovery and peace of mind.

Despite all precautions, it’s important to acknowledge that no surgery is entirely without risk. I often explain to my patients that it’s a bit like driving a car: you feel safest when the car is well-serviced and driven by a trained professional.

While minor issues can still arise, they are usually small, manageable, and within my control to address without affecting the final outcome.

Ultimately, a well-informed patient who feels heard, respected, and cared for is the foundation of both safety and satisfaction in my practice.

Can you discuss the importance of patient education in your practice?

Dr. Smriti Nathani: Patient education is truly one of the pillars of my approach to care. I’ve learned over the years that an informed and empowered patient is not only safer but also much happier with their decisions and outcomes.

Whether someone is planning a major surgical procedure or a minor non-invasive treatment, I believe it’s my responsibility to help them understand every aspect of their journey—not just the physical process but also the emotional experience that comes along with it.

Many patients come in feeling nervous, overwhelmed, or even hesitant to ask questions. I make it a point to create an environment where no concern is too small or insignificant.

I dedicate a lot of time during consultations to explain their options, limitations, and what recovery will realistically look like. I use visual aids, diagrams, and before-and-after photos to make things clearer.

Whenever possible, I also share stories of other patients (with their permission) so they know they’re not alone in their hopes or fears.

It’s also important to me that patients understand both the possibilities and the boundaries of what can be achieved.

This helps prevent disappointment and ensures they are making decisions for the right reasons. I always encourage them to take time to reflect, involve their family if they wish, and come back with follow-up questions.

When a patient feels truly informed, heard, and respected, there is a sense of trust and partnership that develops. That trust transforms a good experience into a great one—and ultimately leads to results that feel authentic and satisfying for both of us.

How do you approach the psychological aspects of cosmetic surgery with your patients?

Dr. Smriti Nathani: In my experience as a Cosmetic Plastic Surgeon, the psychological side of cosmetic surgery is just as significant—sometimes even more significant—than the technical part. I believe it’s essential to understand not only “what” someone wants to change but “why” they feel that change is important.

During my consultations, I spend a lot of time talking about motivations. Is the patient doing this to feel more confident in their own skin, or are they feeling pressured by someone else’s expectations?

Are they hoping surgery will fix something deeper, like low self-worth or chronic unhappiness? These conversations can be very personal, and I approach them with complete respect and without any judgment.

I remember a young woman who came to me wanting a rhinoplasty. As we spoke, it became clear she had been teased about her nose for years. She was clear that this was something she wanted for herself, not to please anyone else.

After her surgery, she shared that she finally felt at peace with her reflection, but she also needed time to adjust emotionally to her new appearance. That’s something I always remind patients—positive change can still feel overwhelming at first. It’s a process.

I also see patients who may be going through difficult transitions—like divorce, bereavement, or big life changes—and I’m very careful to assess whether surgery is the right step at that moment.

If I feel that someone needs additional support, I don’t hesitate to involve a psychologist or counsellor so they have a safe space to process their feelings.

My guiding philosophy is simple: cosmetic surgery can absolutely enhance self-confidence and quality of life, but it should never be seen as a solution for filling an emotional void.

When patients feel truly heard, understood, and supported, the outcomes—both physical and emotional—are always healthier and more rewarding.

Can you share a memorable case that had a significant impact on you as a surgeon?

Dr. Smriti Nathani: There are so many cases that stay with me, but one that stands out. I see women in their 40s or 50s who have devoted years to caring for their families and feel finally it’s time to care for themselves.

I think lot of Indian women would relate to this. One patient , proud mother of 2 , came to me for tummy tuck because even though the pregnancy happened long back her tummy bulge was such that she looked pregnant.

This had impacted her posture and confidence and was not able to dress up as before, and that she feels she has lost her previous self. Now, She told me she was feeling nervous and guilty for wanting the surgery “just for herself and putting her needs first”.

We spent 2 sessions discussing her feelings and explaining that “self care is not selfish”. After a carefully planned abdominoplasty and contouring procedure, we did the surgery and she told me at her follow-up that she finally felt “herself again”—that she could look in the mirror without sadness or shame. I can never forget her smile. After her recovery her body language and confidence was spectacular.

Similarly, a young, educated, smart working woman. She was at a very prestigious post in a company. She told me a very disturbing thing that “ Doc, I’m successful, authoritative and smart.

But i feel very odd about myself because instead of looking at my face and talking, i find people often looking at my boobs”.

She had Macromastia, condition where breasts are larger in proportion to rest of the body, causing postural neck and back pain, digging bra straps, skin excoriation , discomfort and difficulty in dressing right. I did breast reduction surgery for her to restore her correct form and shape.

Her story reinforced for me that these procedures are about so much more than aesthetics—they can restore a person’s sense of identity and joy. Those are the moments that remind me why I chose this field.

Like these i can share many touching stories like a middle aged man who was bullied since school because of Gynecomastia, dropped out of the state swimming team, and struggled half his life before he got his surgery done from me, only to realise he spent all these years unnecessary in shame and embarrassment while the surgery was so simple and easy.

Stories like these elevate my spirits and gives joy and satisfaction.

What advice would you give to someone considering cosmetic surgery for the first time?

Dr. Smriti Nathani: First and foremost, take your time to research thoroughly. Look for a qualified, board-certified plastic surgeon and don’t hesitate to ask questions—about credentials, experience, techniques, safety protocols, and what to realistically expect.

Please do not fall for cheap tactics and unqualified quacks because remember it’s your body, not some machine. Experience and expertise of surgeon and safety of patient matters most.

Reflect on your motivations: “do this for yourself, not to please someone else or chase perfection”. 

Be patient with the process; results take time, and healing is both physical and emotional.

Finally, know that cosmetic surgery, when done thoughtfully, can be a powerful tool for self-empowerment— but it should be approached with clarity, respect for your body, and a commitment to self-care.

Dr. Smriti Nathani’s expertise and compassionate approach redefine beauty standards, empowering individuals to embrace their aesthetic aspirations with confidence and informed choices.

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