USA Plastic Surgery: Services, Faqs
May 3, 2025
What is plastic surgery and how does it work?
Plastic surgery is a broad surgical subspecialty that addresses both functional reconstruction and aesthetic enhancement of body structures. Unlike other specialties confined to one organ system, plastic surgeons operate on multiple areas—from the face and breasts to the hands and skin—using microsurgical, reconstructive, and cosmetic techniques.
Reconstructive versus cosmetic surgery
Reconstructive surgery repairs congenital defects (e.g., cleft lip and palate), traumatic injuries (e.g., burns, lacerations), post-cancer defects (e.g., breast reconstruction), and degenerative conditions.
Cosmetic (aesthetic) surgery aims to improve appearance and boost self-esteem through procedures on the face or body (e.g., facelifts, breast augmentation, liposuction).
Core steps in a plastic surgery procedure
Consultation & planning: Medical history review, physical exam, imaging, and goal discussion.
Preoperative preparation: Lab tests, anesthesia clearance, and instructions on medications, diet, and smoking cessation.
Anesthesia: Local, regional, or general anesthesia selected based on procedure complexity.
Surgical technique: Incisions are made; tissues are reshaped, augmented, or removed; microsurgical reconnection of blood vessels may be performed for tissue transfer.
Closure & dressing: Incisions are closed with sutures or staples; dressings and compression garments applied.
Recovery & follow-up: Pain management, wound care, activity restrictions, and monitoring for complications.
Plastic surgery relies on principles of wound healing, tissue viability, and anatomy. Advances in technology—such as endoscopic techniques, fat grafting, and laser therapy—have made procedures safer with faster recovery.
Who is USA plastic surgery?
Here “USA plastic surgery” refers broadly to the U.S. plastic surgery industry: board-certified surgeons, accredited clinics, and professional societies that set standards and advance the field.
Industry size and leadership: In 2023, U.S. plastic surgeons performed over 1.5 million cosmetic procedures and 600,000 reconstructive surgeries, representing the highest volume globally.
The American Society of Plastic Surgeons is the largest organization of board-certified plastic surgeons worldwide, with thousands of members committed to safety, ethics, and innovation.
Services Offered by USA Plastic Surgery
USA plastic surgery clinics and board-certified surgeons provide a comprehensive spectrum of services, spanning cosmetic, minimally invasive, reconstructive, and regenerative treatments.
Cosmetic Surgical Procedures
Liposuction: The most popular surgical procedure, targeting stubborn fat in the abdomen, thighs, hips, and arms to sculpt the body contour.
Breast Augmentation & Lift: Implants or fat-transfer techniques to enhance volume and reshape the bust.
Rhinoplasty: Nose reshaping for both aesthetic refinement and functional improvement.
Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck): Removes excess skin and tightens abdominal muscles.
Facelift & Neck Lift: Surgical lifting and tightening of facial and neck tissues to reduce sagging and wrinkles.
Minimally Invasive Aesthetic Treatments
Botulinum Toxin (Botox®): Used for wrinkle reduction, “Baby Botox,” and male cosmetic treatments (“Brotox”).
Dermal Fillers: Hyaluronic and non-hyaluronic acid fillers to restore volume and smooth lines.
Laser & Light Therapies: Skin resurfacing, hair removal, and pigmentation correction.
Chemical Peels & Microneedling: Collagen induction therapies for texture and tone improvement.
Reconstructive & Specialized Services
Breast Reconstruction: Post-mastectomy reconstruction using implants or autologous tissue flaps.
Hand & Microsurgery: Repair of trauma, congenital anomalies, and nerve injuries.
Craniofacial & Pediatric Plastic Surgery: Correction of congenital facial differences.
Scar Revision & Burn Reconstruction: Improves function and aesthetics through laser or surgical methods.
Regenerative & Adjunctive Therapies
Fat Grafting (Autologous Fat Transfer): Volume restoration in face, breasts, and hands.
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP): Enhances healing and stimulates collagen.
Stem-Cell-Enhanced Procedures: Used for scar revision and soft-tissue regeneration.
Exosome Therapy: For skin rejuvenation and anti-inflammatory benefits.
Why international patients choose the U.S.
Expertise & training: U.S. plastic surgeons complete extensive training and certification.
Advanced facilities: Equipped with the latest technology and safety standards.
Innovation & research: Clinical trials and regenerative biotherapeutics drive innovation.
Safety standards: Strict regulatory oversight ensures high-quality care.
20 Pros of USA plastic surgery
- World-class expertise: U.S. surgeons undergo rigorous training and certification.
- Cutting-edge technology: Access to advanced tools like robotics and 3D imaging.
- Comprehensive care: Multidisciplinary teams ensure complete surgical support.
- Strict safety standards: Accredited facilities meet high regulatory benchmarks.
- High success rates: Many procedures report excellent outcomes.
- Personalized treatment plans: Tailored to patient goals and anatomy.
- Advanced pain management: New techniques minimize post-op discomfort.
- Rapid innovation: New treatments are adopted quickly.
- Diverse procedure options: From injectables to complex reconstructions.
- Reconstructive excellence: Effective for trauma and congenital repairs.
- Global reputation: Recognized as a leader in plastic surgery.
- Post-op care: Structured and supportive recovery systems.
- Long-term follow-up: Monitoring and revision services available.
- Educational support: Patients receive comprehensive guidance.
- High patient satisfaction: Many patients report improved self-esteem.
- Regenerative medicine options: PRP, fat grafts, and stem cell therapies.
- Specialized services: Craniofacial, hand, and burn surgery.
- Transparent pricing: Clear cost breakdowns and financing options.
- Multilingual support: Facilities often have translation services.
- Luxury amenities: Some centers offer premium recovery suites.
20 Cons of USA plastic surgery
- High cost: U.S. procedures are among the most expensive globally.
- Travel logistics: International patients face visa and flight challenges.
- Language barriers: Miscommunication is possible without interpreters.
- Insurance exclusions: Cosmetic procedures are often not covered.
- Limited follow-up: Difficult to return for revisions if complications arise.
- Surgical risks: Includes bleeding, infection, and anesthesia reactions.
- Visible scarring: Surgical marks may remain post-operation.
- Financial strain: Costs may be prohibitive without loans or payment plans.
- Time off work: Some procedures require extended recovery.
- Emotional distress: Possible dissatisfaction with results.
- Multiple surgeries risk: Repeat procedures may lead to dependency.
- Implant failures: Risk of rupture or rejection over time.
- Lengthy recovery: Full healing can take weeks or months.
- Unpredictable results: Outcomes vary by patient and surgeon.
- Unlicensed providers risk: Danger in choosing non-certified practitioners.
- Legal complications: Harder to resolve malpractice cases internationally.
- Age-related limitations: Older patients may face higher risks.
- Psychological readiness: Mental health should be assessed.
- Hidden fees: Costs may rise due to facility and anesthesia fees.
- Non-permanent results: Some procedures require maintenance.
FAQS
Can a plastic surgeon help me achieve my aesthetic goals?
Absolutely—a board-certified plastic surgeon will assess your anatomy, discuss realistic outcomes, and develop a personalized plan, whether it’s rhinoplasty, breast enhancement, body contouring, or facial rejuvenation.
They provide expertise in surgical techniques, manage risks, and guide you through pre- and post-operative care to optimize results and align with your aesthetic vision.
What are the average costs for popular plastic surgery procedures in Dallas, Texas?
On average, liposuction in the Dallas–Fort Worth area costs about $9,239 for a single treatment area.
For more extensive body procedures, such as a tummy tuck, prices range from $12,500 to $22,000, while a Brazilian butt lift typically runs between $10,500 and $12,500 at leading Dallas clinics.
Facelifts in Dallas often cost between $15,000 and $22,000, and upper or lower eyelid surgery starts around $6,000 to $7,500 per area.
How much does a Brazilian butt lift cost in the USA and what should I expect during recovery?
Nationwide, the average cost for a Brazilian butt lift (BBL) ranges from $10,500 to $12,500, depending on surgeon experience and the amount of liposuction required for fat transfer.
Patients should plan for a recovery period of at least two weeks of limited sitting, with full results settling over three to six months as the transferred fat takes hold.
Common side effects include swelling, bruising, and temporary numbness, and choosing a board-certified surgeon reduces risks of uneven contours or fat necrosis.
Which online forums are best for discussing plastic surgery experiences in the USA?
RealSelf’s Patient Community and “Ask a Surgeon” boards hosted by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) are among the most authoritative forums, where members share before-and-after photos, candid reviews, and direct surgeon responses.
Reddit’s r/PlasticSurgery and r/RealSelf also feature thousands of threads on procedure experiences, cost breakdowns, and surgeon recommendations, facilitating peer support and candid discussions.
Who is considered the No. 1 breast augmentation surgeon in the USA and what makes them stand out?
While rankings vary, surgeons like Dr. Garth Fisher in Beverly Hills and Dr. Samuel Lin at Harvard-affiliated Mass General are frequently cited for pioneering techniques in silicone implant placement and fat-grafting approaches.
Top breast augmentation specialists distinguish themselves through board certifications (ABPS), extensive before-and-after galleries, high patient satisfaction ratings, and publications in peer-reviewed journals demonstrating surgical innovations.
What was the most common plastic surgery procedure performed in the USA in 2023?
According to the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery’s 2023 Global Survey, liposuction was the single most common surgical procedure with over 2.2 million cases, surpassing breast augmentation for the first time.
Breast augmentation remained in the Top 2, followed by eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty), abdominoplasty (tummy tuck), and rhinoplasty.
Who is the highest paid plastic surgeon in the USA and what factors influence their earnings?
While individual incomes vary by practice type and location, top-earning plastic surgeons can command annual revenues exceeding $600,000—surpassing the average U.S. plastic surgeon salary of $526,000 reported for 2024.
Factors driving the highest incomes include performing high-volume aesthetic procedures in affluent markets (e.g., Beverly Hills, New York), offering specialized services (e.g., complex facial reconstructions, mega-rich clientele facelifts), and leveraging ancillary revenue from medspas or product lines.
What are the average costs for cheekbone reduction in the USA?
Cheekbone (malar) reduction surgery in the United States typically ranges from $2,667 to $4,000, depending on the surgeon’s expertise and the combination of bony contouring versus soft-tissue reduction.
Patients often require general anesthesia and a recovery stay of about one week, with full facial swelling subsiding over four to six weeks.
How can I find the cheapest mommy makeover in the USA and what should I consider?
A “mommy makeover” combines multiple procedures—commonly a tummy tuck, breast lift or augmentation, and liposuction—so pricing varies widely; midrange costs average $12,700, with reports from $9,000 up to $20,000.
Some clinics advertise starting prices as low as $3,600 for very limited packages (e.g., only abdominal liposuction), escalating to over $20,000 for comprehensive transformations.
When seeking lower cost, verify board certification, included fees (anesthesia, facility, garments), and ask for before-and-after photos to ensure quality.
What does a butt implant cost in the USA and how does it differ from a Brazilian butt lift?
The average cost of buttock implants is $7,964, while a fat-grafting Brazilian butt lift averages $7,264.
Butt implants involve placing solid silicone prostheses, offering predictable volume but higher risks of malposition or extrusion. In contrast, BBLs use one’s own fat—requiring sufficient donor sites—and carry risks of fat resorption or embolism.
Who is considered the most famous plastic surgeon in the USA and what makes them stand out?
Surgeons like Dr. Thomas Matarasso and high-profile names in national rankings (e.g., Dr. Garth Fisher) earn fame through pioneering techniques, celebrity clientele, and contributions to peer-reviewed literature.
They typically hold Board certification (ABPS), publish surgical innovations, and maintain robust social-media or TV presences, further boosting their public profiles.
What services does Allure Esthetic in Seattle offer and how do patient reviews rate them?
Allure Esthetic (Allure Plastic Surgery Seattle) is led by Dr. Javad Sajan, offering facelifts, breast procedures, body contouring, and non-surgical treatments.
The clinic holds strong ratings, with patients praising Dr. Sajan’s artistry, compassionate bedside manner, and natural-looking results.
How much does Asian rhinoplasty cost in the USA and what techniques are used?
Asian rhinoplasty in the U.S. averages $9,000 to $12,000, with complex cases (e.g., major dorsal augmentation) reaching $15,000.
Surgeons often employ specialized techniques—such as septal extension grafts, lateral osteotomies, and soft-tissue preservation—to achieve balanced nasal profiles while maintaining ethnic characteristics.
What is the average tummy tuck price in the USA and what factors affect it?
The average abdominoplasty cost is $8,174, excluding anesthesia, facility fees, and post-op garments.
A broader range of $1,400 to $24,000 is common, driven by procedure type (mini vs. full tummy tuck), geographic location, and surgeon credentials.
How much does a nose job cost in the USA and what influences the price?
The average rhinoplasty cost is $7,637, not including ancillary fees.
A national range from $500 to $17,500 is reported, with factors such as septoplasty needs, revision status, geographic region, and surgeon renown all influencing final pricing.
What is the average cost of a nose job in the U.S.?
A rhinoplasty (nose job) in the United States averages $5,483 surgeon fee, not including anesthesia or facility costs.
Complete pricing—including operating room and post-op care—often falls between $7,000 and $12,000 depending on complexity and geography.
What is the cost of plastic surgery in the USA?
Average surgeon fees for top cosmetic procedures in 2023 were:
- Upper blepharoplasty (eyelid lift): $3,359
- Lower blepharoplasty: $3,876
- Facelift (rhytidectomy): $11,395
- Rhinoplasty: $7,637
These averages exclude anesthesia, facility, and related fees, which can add 20–40% to the total cost.
Where can I find affordable plastic surgery in the USA?
Some clinics advertise all-inclusive pricing to simplify budgeting—e.g., closed rhinoplasty for $9,500, upper blepharoplasty for $7,100, and mini-facelifts at $10,000.
When seeking lower-cost options, always confirm that your surgeon is ABPS-board-certified, and that quoted prices cover anesthesia, facility, and follow-up appointments.
What is the average breast lift price in the USA?
Breast lift surgery in the U.S. averages around $5,800 surgeon fee, excluding related expenses.
Comprehensive quotes—including implants (if combined), anesthesia, and facility fees—can range from $8,000 to $14,500 based on location and technique.
How much does a tummy tuck cost in the USA?
The average cost of a full abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) is $8,174, not including anesthesia or operating room fees.
More extensive variants (e.g., drainless or fleur-de-lis) can cost between $7,400 and $13,100.
What is the price of a labiaplasty in the USA?
A labiaplasty procedure averages $5,134 based on patient reports, with a typical range of $2,000 to $11,000 depending on surgeon and facility.
Factors influencing cost include technique (trim vs. wedge), anesthesia type, and geographic location.
How much do breast implants cost in the USA?
Breast augmentation with implants has an average surgeon fee of $4,875, while fat-grafting augmentations average $5,719.
Total out-of-pocket cost—including implants, operating room, and anesthesia—often falls between $6,000 and $12,000 based on implant type and region.
What is the cost of blepharoplasty in the USA?
Cosmetic upper blepharoplasty averages $3,359, and lower blepharoplasty around $3,876, excluding facility and anesthesia fees.
Combined upper and lower procedures typically cost $6,000 to $8,000 total, depending on whether done in a hospital or outpatient surgical center.
Should you consult a board-certified plastic surgeon?
Yes—board certification by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) signifies that a surgeon has completed accredited training and passed comprehensive exams in plastic surgery.
Choosing an ASPS Member Surgeon guarantees they hold ABPS (or Canadian equivalent) certification, which is directly linked to higher patient safety and better outcomes.
Who are the best BBL surgeons in the USA?
Dr. Constantino Mendieta of Miami is widely regarded as a pioneer in buttock augmentation and has shaped global BBL safety guidelines.
In Beverly Hills, Dr. Urmen Desai commands top RealSelf ratings, with over 1,300 five-star reviews for BBL.
Dr. Jeff Angobaldo in Plano, TX, is noted for consistent, natural-looking fat-grafting results and features prominently in RealSelf’s BBL before-and-after gallery.
Who is the best BBL surgeon in the USA for 2025?
According to peer-voted industry surveys and patient-review platforms in late 2024, Dr. Constantino Mendieta retains top honors for safety and aesthetic consistency, while emerging practices like Buckhead Plastic Surgery (Dr. Alan N. Larsen) are noted for their double-board certification and meticulous technique.
Who are the best facial plastic surgeons in the United States?
Newsweek’s 2024 facelift rankings list Dr. Rod J. Rohrich (Dallas) and Dr. Andrew Jacono (Great Neck, NY) among the nation’s top five for rhytidectomy. These surgeons are celebrated for advanced SMAS-layer techniques and natural-appearing rejuvenation.
Who is the best plastic surgeon in Dallas?
Dr. Rod J. Rohrich of Dallas is repeatedly named among D Magazine’s Best Doctors, recognized for facial rejuvenation and body contouring.
Dr. John Burns, President of Dallas Plastic Surgery Institute, was listed in Newsweek’s “America’s Best Plastic Surgeons” for his expertise across procedures.
Both surgeons are ABPS-board-certified, ensuring they meet rigorous training and ethical standards.
Who are the best breast reconstruction or revision surgeons in the US?
Dr. Foad Nahai stands out as one of the few surgeons ranked by Newsweek across all major cosmetic categories—breast among them—reflecting peer recognition for both primary and revision work. His practice emphasizes microsurgical flap techniques for complex reconstructive cases.
Who is the best lip reduction surgeon in the USA?
Dr. Rady Rahban in Beverly Hills is renowned for preserving lip border definition while achieving subtle volume reduction.
In Washington, D.C., Dr. Christopher Chang combines facial-anatomy expertise with conservative excisional techniques to maintain symmetry and function.
Who are the best fat transfer surgeons in the USA?
Dr. Michael Omidi of Beverly Hills is ranked #1 in Los Angeles for autologous fat grafting to face and body, with a practice built on meticulous harvesting and purification protocols.
Who is the best cosmetic surgeon in the USA?
Newsweek’s multi-category “America’s Best Plastic Surgeons 2024” names Drs. Foad & Farzad Nahai as top peers—in facelift, breast, liposuction, rhinoplasty, and eyelid surgery—underscoring their cross-discipline excellence.
Who specializes in ethnic rhinoplasty in the USA?
Dr. Frank Kassir in New York & New Jersey offers tailored rhinoplasties for African-American, Asian, Persian, and Hispanic noses, balancing structural support with cultural preservation.
Dr. Anthony Corrado in Philadelphia emphasizes individualized osteotomies and grafting techniques to harmonize nasal features with ethnic facial harmony.
Where can I find the cheapest plastic surgery in the USA?
Cash-based surgery centers like the Surgery Center of Oklahoma list all-inclusive procedure bundles (e.g., rhinoplasty or liposuction packages) that often run 40–50% below typical hospital fees by bypassing insurance billing. Patients report transparent pricing and rapid scheduling, making it a model for truly “cheapest” U.S. options.
What is cosmetic plastic surgery?
Cosmetic plastic surgery refers to elective surgical and nonsurgical procedures that enhance and reshape structures of the body to improve appearance and self-confidence.
Unlike reconstructive surgery, which repairs defects from trauma, disease, or congenital anomalies, cosmetic procedures focus solely on aesthetic improvement of areas that function normally.
Where can I get reconstructive & cosmetic plastic surgery?
The American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) provides a free “Find a Surgeon” tool listing board-certified plastic surgeons by location and specialty.
Reputable centers offering both reconstructive and cosmetic services include:
- BIDMC Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery in Boston, MA – trauma, cancer, and aesthetic procedures
- MedStar Health Plastic Surgery in Washington, D.C. – wide spectrum of reconstructive and cosmetic treatments
- Southcoast Health Plastic Surgery in Massachusetts – reconstructive and aesthetic body and facial surgery
- Elite Plastic Surgery in Phoenix/Scottsdale, AZ – board-certified cosmetic and reconstructive surgeons
Conclusion
USA plastic surgery stands at the forefront of global innovation, offering unmatched expertise and a wide array of services ranging from minimally invasive aesthetics to complex reconstructions. While the benefits include world-class care, safety, and technology, the high cost and logistical challenges must be carefully considered. By selecting a board-certified surgeon, setting realistic expectations, and preparing for all aspects of the journey, patients can achieve safe, satisfying, and transformative outcomes.
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