Plastic surgery in the United States is a booming industry, driven by advances in technology, increasing social acceptance, and the growing influence of social media.
According to the latest data from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, Americans underwent approximately 1.6 million cosmetic surgical procedures in 2023, marking a 5% increase from the previous year. This is in addition to more than 9.5 million non-surgical treatments like Botox and dermal fillers, which continue to grow in popularity thanks to their convenience and minimal downtime.
Among the most requested procedures are liposuction, breast augmentation, tummy tucks, eyelid surgery, and facelifts. Liposuction remains the top procedure, with nearly 350,000 surgeries performed last year. Eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) also stands out as one of the fastest-growing facial procedures, offering functional and aesthetic benefits that appeal to a wide age range.
The demographic landscape of cosmetic surgery is also shifting. While women still make up the majority of patients, there has been a notable rise in the number of men seeking procedures such as rhinoplasty, eyelid lifts, and facial rejuvenation. Younger generations, particularly Millennials and Gen Z, are embracing preventive treatments such as “baby Botox,” lip lifts, and subtle contouring to preserve youthful features before signs of aging appear.
Given this growth and diversification in the market, selecting the right surgeon has never been more important. A skilled, board-certified plastic surgeon not only ensures safer outcomes but also tailors the procedure to the individual’s goals, anatomy, and lifestyle.
In this article, we break down the top 10 plastic surgeons in each U.S. state—evaluated based on qualifications, experience, patient reviews, and surgical specialties—to help readers navigate their options with confidence and clarity.
Selection Criteria and Ranking Methodology
The identification of top plastic surgeons relies on multiple evaluation metrics established by medical authorities and peer review organizations. Newsweek, in collaboration with global data firm Statista, publishes annual rankings that assess surgeon performance across six primary procedures.
These procedures include breast augmentation, liposuction, facelift surgery, rhinoplasty, eyelid surgery, and tummy tuck procedures. The methodology incorporates peer nominations from medical professionals who evaluate surgical expertise and patient outcomes.
Patient reviews and satisfaction scores form another critical component of the selection process. Surgeons must demonstrate consistent positive outcomes and maintain high safety standards throughout their practice history.
Professional experience and years in practice contribute to overall rankings. Surgeons with extensive surgical volumes and specialized training in multiple procedures receive higher consideration in the evaluation process.
Top 10 Best Plastic Surgeons in the US
Newsweek collaborates with Statista annually to identify America’s best plastic surgeons through comprehensive professional surveys. Out of nearly 8,000 board-certified plastic surgeons in the United States, only 349 earned recognition on the prestigious 2025 list.
The selection process evaluates surgeons based on peer nominations from thousands of aesthetic medical professionals. American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) certification serves as a fundamental requirement for consideration.
Key Selection Criteria:
- Board certification from ABPS
- Peer recognition and nominations
- Surgical expertise and experience
- Patient safety records
- Innovation in techniques
1. Dr. Albert W. Chow (San Francisco, California)
Dr. Albert W. Chow stands as one of the most accomplished plastic surgeons in the United States. He practices in San Francisco, California, and has built an exceptional reputation over more than 25 years in the field.
Board Certifications & Credentials
Dr. Chow holds triple board certification, including certifications from the American Board of Plastic Surgery and the American Board of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery. He completed his medical education at the University of California at San Francisco.
Specialties & Expertise
His expertise spans a comprehensive range of procedures:
- Facial procedures: Facelifts, rhinoplasty, blepharoplasty
- Body contouring: Liposuction, tummy tucks
- Breast surgery: Augmentation and reconstruction
- Non-surgical treatments: BOTOX Cosmetic and other injectables
Dr. Chow specializes particularly in facial plastic surgery and reconstructive procedures. He has developed expertise working with patients of diverse backgrounds and ethnic considerations.
Patient Experience & Reviews
Patient satisfaction remains consistently high across multiple review platforms. He maintains a 5.0-star overall rating based on 33 reviews, with 99% of patients finding appointment booking easy and 100% describing his staff as friendly.
Professional Memberships
Dr. Chow holds membership in prestigious organizations including the American Society of Plastic Surgeons and the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons. His practice locations include both San Francisco and Davis, California.
2. Dr. Marc Liang (Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania)
Dr. Marc Liang stands out as a distinguished plastic surgeon practicing in Pittsburgh. He brings extensive expertise in both facial and body contouring procedures to his patients.
His practice focuses on comprehensive aesthetic solutions. Dr. Liang performs a wide range of surgical procedures including facelifts, rhinoplasty, and breast augmentation.
Areas of Specialization:
- Facial rejuvenation procedures
- Body contouring surgeries
- Breast enhancement and reconstruction
- Non-invasive aesthetic treatments
Dr. Liang combines traditional surgical techniques with modern approaches. His facial and body contouring expertise allows him to deliver natural-looking results for his patients.
The surgeon maintains a reputation for precision and attention to detail. His approach emphasizes patient safety and realistic expectations throughout the treatment process.
| Procedure Type | Specialization Level |
|---|---|
| Facial Surgery | Expert |
| Body Contouring | Expert |
| Breast Surgery | Advanced |
| Non-Surgical | Advanced |
Dr. Liang’s practice includes both surgical and non-surgical options. This comprehensive approach allows patients to choose treatments that best suit their individual needs and goals.
His commitment to continuing education keeps him current with the latest techniques. Dr. Liang regularly incorporates new technologies and methods into his practice when appropriate.
The surgeon’s patient-centered approach emphasizes thorough consultations. He takes time to understand each patient’s specific aesthetic goals before recommending treatment options.
3. Dr. William Lao (New York, NY)
Dr. William Lao stands out as a double board-certified plastic surgeon in New York City, holding certifications in both the USA and Taiwan. His unique background provides him with comprehensive understanding of both Eastern and Western aesthetic ideals.
Education and Training:
- Johns Hopkins University (double major in biomedical engineering and computer science)
- Medical degree from Johns Hopkins
- Six years of integrated residency at Medical College of Wisconsin
- Aesthetic surgery fellowship under Dr. Sherrell J. Aston
Dr. Lao specializes in facial procedures including rhinoplasty and facelifts, breast surgeries, and body contouring. His plastic surgery practice focuses on creating natural-looking results that enhance patients’ features without appearing artificial.
Professional Recognition:
| Achievement | Details |
|---|---|
| Publications | 20+ scientific articles |
| Textbook Chapters | 13 contributions |
| Presentations | 25+ professional presentations |
| Recent Award | America’s Best Plastic Surgeons 2025 for eyelid surgery |
He maintains memberships in prestigious organizations including the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery and the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery. Dr. Lao is also a founding member of the Asian Society for Breast Plastic Reconstructive Surgery.
His approach combines advanced surgical techniques with artistic precision. Born in Taiwan and educated internationally, he brings a global perspective to aesthetic surgery while maintaining focus on personalized patient care and natural-looking outcomes.
4. Dr. Paul S. Nassif, MD, FACS (Beverly Hills, CA)
Dr. Paul S. Nassif is a board-certified facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon practicing in Beverly Hills with over 33 years of experience. He holds dual board certifications from the American Board of Otolaryngology and the American Board of Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery.
Dr. Nassif graduated summa cum laude from USC School of Medicine and completed his fellowship training in facial plastic and reconstructive surgery at St. Louis University. He serves as a Clinical Assistant Professor at both USC and UCLA medical schools.
Television Recognition: Dr. Nassif gained widespread recognition as co-host of the reality TV show “Botched,” where he corrects complex revision surgeries. This platform has showcased his expertise in handling challenging cases that other surgeons may have deemed inoperable.
Newsweek Recognition: For three consecutive years, Newsweek has named Dr. Nassif as one of America’s Best Plastic Surgeons for 2025. The ranking recognizes his expertise in facelift, rhinoplasty, and eyelid surgery procedures.
Key Specializations:
- Deep plane facelifts and neck lifts
- Revision rhinoplasty and ethnic rhinoplasty
- Blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery)
- Complex facial reconstructive procedures
Dr. Nassif maintains hospital affiliations with Los Angeles General Medical Center and accepts multiple insurance plans including Medicaid. His facial plastic surgery practice focuses on achieving natural-looking results while preserving facial harmony and function.
The surgeon has published numerous peer-reviewed articles and frequently presents at medical conferences on advanced surgical techniques.
5. Dr. Joshua Zimm (New York, NY)
Dr. A. Joshua Zimm stands as one of New York City’s most respected facial plastic surgeons with over 20 years of experience. He holds dual board certifications from the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and the American Board of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery.
Specializations & Expertise
- Rhinoplasty and revision rhinoplasty
- Facelift and neck lift procedures
- Blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery)
- Chin implants and jawline enhancement
- Otoplasty (ear pinning)
- Non-surgical treatments like Botox
Dr. Zimm’s Manhattan practice focuses exclusively on facial plastic surgery, allowing him to refine his techniques and deliver consistent results. His extensive training includes both cosmetic and reconstructive procedures.
Recognition & Credentials He maintains recognition as a Castle Connolly Top Doctor and has been featured in various medical publications. His affiliation with Lenox Hill Hospital provides additional surgical facility options for complex procedures.
Patient Experience Reviews consistently highlight his attention to detail and natural-looking results. The practice maintains office hours from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM and provides comprehensive consultations that include detailed cost breakdowns.
His expertise in rhinoplasty has attracted patients seeking both primary and revision nose surgeries. Dr. Zimm’s approach emphasizes facial harmony and proportion rather than dramatic changes.
The combination of his dual certifications, decades of experience, and focus on facial procedures positions him among the top facial plastic surgeons in the Northeast region.
6. Dr. Michael E. Decherd, MD (San Antonio, TX)
Dr. Michael E. Decherd is a double board-certified plastic surgeon practicing in San Antonio, Texas. He represents a fourth-generation Texas physician family and has dedicated 28 years to the field of plastic surgery.
Education and Credentials:
- Medical degree: University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas
- General surgery internship: University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston
- Otolaryngology residency: University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston
- Plastic surgery residency: University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center
Dr. Decherd holds board certifications from both the American Board of Plastic Surgery and the American Board of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery. This dual certification provides him with extensive expertise in facial procedures.
Specializations and Procedures: His practice focuses on comprehensive cosmetic surgery including breast augmentation, breast lift surgery, tummy tuck, and liposuction. Dr. Decherd has gained recognition for his “mommy makeover” procedures, helping women restore their pre-pregnancy appearance.
He also specializes in facial procedures such as rhinoplasty, facelift, eyelid surgery, and brow lift procedures. His dual training in otolaryngology enhances his facial surgery capabilities.
Recognition and Awards:
- Named among Newsweek’s America’s Best Plastic Surgeons 2024 for breast augmentation
- Received the RealSelf 500 Award (one of 500 doctors nationwide)
- Recognized as Ailm’s Top Doctor for March 2025
- Castle Connolly Top Doctor designation
Dr. Decherd practices at the San Antonio Plastic Surgery Institute and maintains affiliations with CHRISTUS Santa Rosa Health System and North Central Baptist Hospital.
7. Dr. Rolando Morales, Jr. (Houston, TX)
Dr. Rolando Morales stands as one of Houston’s most accomplished plastic surgeons. He graduated from the University of Texas Medical Branch School of Medicine in 2006 and maintains board certification from the American Board of Plastic Surgery.
Professional Recognition
- Named Newsweek’s “Best Plastic Surgeon” for three consecutive years (2021-2023)
- Received multiple Editor’s Choice awards in Aesthetic Surgery Journal
- Consistently recognized as a Top Doctor in Plastic Surgery
Dr. Morales served as President of the Houston Society of Plastic Surgeons in 2020. He holds active memberships in the American Society of Plastic Surgeons and American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery.
Specializations and Expertise
Dr. Morales specializes in cosmetic plastic surgery including breast augmentation, Brazilian Butt Lift, liposuction, and mommy makeovers. His practice focuses on combining multiple procedures to achieve balanced, natural-looking results.
Academic Contributions
As Clinical Associate Professor at the University of Texas Medical Branch, Dr. Morales contributes significantly to plastic surgery education. He directs an American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery endorsed fellowship program.
Research and Innovation
His published research appears in prestigious medical journals, particularly focusing on body contouring techniques and pain management innovations. Dr. Morales frequently presents at national plastic surgery conferences and serves on multiple professional committees.
Practice Approach
Dr. Morales utilizes advanced surgical techniques and technologies to minimize scarring and reduce recovery times. His patient-centered approach emphasizes personalized treatment plans tailored to individual aesthetic goals.
8. Dr. Shahram Salemy (Seattle, WA)
Dr. Shahram Salemy stands out as one of Seattle’s most distinguished plastic surgeons. He holds board certification from the American Board of Plastic Surgery and serves as a Clinical Associate Professor at the University of Washington School of Medicine.
Education and Training
- Yale University graduate (1999)
- University of Washington plastic surgery residency
- Over 25 years of medical experience
Dr. Salemy recently earned recognition on Newsweek’s America’s Best Plastic Surgeons 2025 list in August 2025. This award-winning surgeon has built a reputation for excellence in cosmetic and reconstructive procedures.
Specialty Procedures Dr. Salemy demonstrates particular expertise in several key areas:
| Surgical Procedures | Non-Surgical Treatments |
|---|---|
| Breast augmentation | Botox injections |
| Brazilian butt lift | Dermal fillers |
| Rhinoplasty | Chemical peels |
| Tummy tucks | Fat transfers |
| Mommy makeovers | |
| Facelifts |
His practice operates from a state-of-the-art, AAAASF-accredited surgical center in Seattle. The facility serves patients from throughout Washington, including Bellevue, Kirkland, Tacoma, and surrounding areas.
Dr. Salemy’s approach focuses on listening to patient goals and providing honest assessments. He tailors treatment plans to achieve desired outcomes while maintaining natural-looking results.
Patient reviews consistently highlight his expertise in rhinoplasty and breast procedures. Many patients report high satisfaction rates and recommend his services for various cosmetic enhancements.
9. Dr. Garth Fisher (Beverly Hills, CA)
Dr. Garth Fisher has established himself as one of the most recognized plastic surgeons in Beverly Hills with over 20 years of experience. He holds board certification from the American Board of Plastic Surgery and maintains a practice that attracts patients worldwide.
Television Pioneer
Fisher gained widespread recognition as the original plastic surgeon for ABC’s “Extreme Makeover” television series. This groundbreaking show brought cosmetic surgery into mainstream television and significantly expanded public awareness of plastic surgery procedures.
Specialties and Expertise
His practice focuses on aesthetic surgery of the face, nose, breast, and body. Fisher regularly accepts complex cases referred by other surgeons and handles challenging reconstructive procedures.
| Key Areas | Procedures |
|---|---|
| Facial Surgery | Facelifts, rhinoplasty, facial rejuvenation |
| Breast Surgery | Augmentation, reduction, reconstruction |
| Body Contouring | Liposuction, tummy tucks |
Professional Recognition
Fisher has been consistently listed in Best Doctors in America for facial cosmetic and breast surgery for over a decade. He also appears annually in the Castle Connolly directory of America’s Foremost Surgeons.
Celebrity Clientele
His Beverly Hills practice serves A-list celebrities, business executives, and international patients. Fisher maintains a reputation for discretion while delivering natural-looking results.
Educational Background
He completed his medical degree at the University of Mississippi Medical Center in 1984. His surgical training was completed at UCLA, where he specialized in both general surgery and plastic surgery.
10. Dr. Benjamin Caughlin (Chicago, IL)
Dr. Benjamin P. Caughlin is a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon based in Chicago, Illinois. He graduated from Wayne State University School of Medicine in 2010 and has over 10 years of experience in the medical field.
Dr. Caughlin specializes in facial sculpting, with particular expertise in buccal fat pad contouring and jawline definition. He has pioneered internal cheek sculpting techniques and is recognized for his innovative approach to buccal fat procedures.
His practice extends beyond cosmetic surgery to include significant academic and public service roles. Dr. Caughlin serves as director of facial plastic surgery, facial trauma, and scar management at Stroger Cook County Hospital.
Key Specialties:
- Buccal fat pad contouring
- Jawline sculpting and definition
- Facial trauma reconstruction
- Gender-confirming facial surgery
At the University of Illinois Department of Head and Neck Surgery, he works as a clinical instructor. He trains residents from both Northwestern Memorial Hospital and the University of Illinois Medical Center.
Dr. Caughlin has established a scar management program in collaboration with Cook County’s Department of Dermatology. This program focuses on treating post-traumatic scars and scars from reconstructive cancer surgeries.
He also provides facial gender-confirming surgery for veterans at the Jesse Brown VA Medical Center. His philosophy centers on enhancing each patient’s natural beauty through detailed facial analysis and minimally invasive techniques.
Dr. Caughlin maintains an active presence in research and presents his findings at national and international plastic surgery conferences.
Emerging Leaders in Aesthetic Surgery
While the surgeons above represent established leaders in the field, the plastic surgery landscape continues to evolve with new talent bringing innovative approaches and cutting-edge training to their practices.
Dr. Bart Kachniarz AkA Dr K MIami (Miami, FL)
Dr. Bart Kachniarz brings Harvard and Johns Hopkins credentials to Miami’s competitive plastic surgery market. His training includes Chief Residency in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery at Johns Hopkins Hospital/University of Maryland Shock Trauma Center.
Dr. Kachniarz has received recognition for his research contributions, including the Clifford C. Snyder Award for best presentation at the Plastic Surgery Research Council national meeting and the Frank L. Coulson, Jr. Award for clinical excellence. His practice focuses on body contouring procedures including Brazilian Butt Lift, mommy makeovers, and breast procedures.
Operating from a boutique practice model, Dr. Kachniarz emphasizes personalized patient care and utilizes advanced techniques in aesthetic surgery. His approach combines academic research background with practical application in cosmetic procedures.
Geographic Diversity and Representation
America’s best plastic surgeons practice across diverse metropolitan areas and regional centers throughout the United States. Major urban centers like New York City, Los Angeles, Dallas, and Boston contain high concentrations of top-rated practitioners.
The geographic distribution ensures patients nationwide have access to exceptional surgical care. States including California, Texas, Florida, and New York feature multiple surgeons in national rankings.
What qualifications should I look for when choosing a top plastic surgeon?
Board certification by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) serves as the fundamental credential for qualified plastic surgeons. This certification represents the only credential recognized by the American Board of Medical Specialties for plastic surgery.
Fewer than 7,000 surgeons held this board certification as of 2025. The certification process requires surgeons to complete rigorous training and pass comprehensive examinations that test their knowledge and skills.
Key Requirements for ABPS Certification:
- Medical degree from an accredited institution
- General surgery residency training
- Plastic surgery residency program completion
- Written and oral board examinations
- Demonstration of surgical competency
Board certification ensures that plastic surgeons have met minimum safety and competency standards. Medical professionals without this certification cannot legally call themselves board-certified plastic surgeons.
The certification must be maintained through continuing education requirements. This ongoing process keeps surgeons current with evolving techniques and safety protocols.
Training and Education Pathways
Plastic surgeons follow a structured educational pathway that spans over a decade after medical school. The training process ensures they develop the necessary skills for both reconstructive and aesthetic procedures.
The typical pathway begins with a medical degree, followed by a general surgery residency lasting five years. Surgeons then complete a plastic surgery residency program, which adds another two to three years of specialized training.
Standard Training Timeline:
- Medical school: 4 years
- General surgery residency: 5 years
- Plastic surgery residency: 2-3 years
- Optional fellowship training: 1 year
Many top plastic surgeons pursue additional fellowship training in subspecialties. These fellowships focus on areas like craniofacial surgery, hand surgery, or aesthetic surgery.
The extensive training ensures surgeons understand both the art and science of plastic surgery. They learn to handle complex reconstructive cases and develop aesthetic judgment for cosmetic procedures.
Professional Society Memberships
Membership in professional societies demonstrates a plastic surgeon’s commitment to ethical practice and continuing education. The most prestigious organizations maintain strict membership requirements and promote excellence in patient care.
The American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) represents the largest plastic surgery organization. Members must be board-certified and demonstrate ethical practice standards.
Major Professional Organizations:
- American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) – Largest organization with strict membership criteria
- American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS) – Focuses specifically on cosmetic procedures
- American Society of Reconstructive Microsurgery – Specializes in complex reconstructive techniques
These societies provide continuing education opportunities and establish practice guidelines. They also offer resources for patients to verify surgeon credentials and find qualified practitioners.
Active participation in professional societies often indicates a surgeon’s dedication to staying current with advances in the field. Many leading plastic surgeons hold leadership positions or contribute to society publications and research initiatives.
How can I verify the credentials and track record of a reputable plastic surgeon?
State medical board websites provide verification of medical licenses and any disciplinary actions. These databases show current license status and malpractice history for transparency.
Board certification status can be confirmed through the American Board of Medical Specialties website. The American Board of Plastic Surgery and American Board of Cosmetic Surgery maintain online verification systems.
Hospital websites list staff physicians with their credentials and specialties. Medical malpractice insurance carriers also maintain records of claims history for practicing surgeons.
Professional society membership directories confirm active participation in plastic surgery organizations. Patient review platforms and Better Business Bureau ratings offer additional insight into practice reputation.
What are the most important factors to consider when picking a surgeon for a specific procedure?
Procedure-specific experience takes precedence over general plastic surgery expertise. Surgeons should demonstrate substantial training and regular performance of the desired procedure type.
Patient selection criteria reveal surgeon judgment and realistic outcome expectations. Experienced surgeons carefully evaluate candidacy and discuss limitations honestly with potential patients.
Before and after photo galleries should showcase consistent results across similar patient types. The aesthetic style should align with patient preferences and desired outcomes.
Surgical facility accreditation ensures safety standards and emergency preparedness. AAAASF, AAAHC, or JCAHO certification indicates proper equipment and protocols.
