Selecting the ideal location for plastic surgery involves more than simply finding the nearest surgeon. The most successful cosmetic procedures occur in cities where skilled practitioners, advanced medical facilities, and comprehensive patient care converge.
The United States offers numerous renowned cities for plastic surgery, each offering unique advantages and specialties. Miami, Beverly Hills, and New York City consistently rank among the top locations not only in the US but in the world due to the sheer number of surgeons and willing clientele looking for a fresh look.
Here we have put together a list of the top 10 cities in the US to get plastic surgery as well as some tips and statistics to help you get a sense of where the plastic surgery industry is at.
Overview of the Plastic Surgery Industry
The United States leads globally in plastic surgery procedures with 26.2 million cosmetic and reconstructive procedures in 2022.
According to RealSelf’s 2018 Aesthetics Interest Survey, the top motivators for consumers considering cosmetic procedures include:
(1) appearing youthful at work,
(2) improving self-confidence, and;
(3) for women, addressing body changes after having children.
These factors help explain why certain geographic areas have become plastic surgery hotspots. Several cities have emerged as centers of excellence for plastic surgery:
- Traditional hubs include Los Angeles, Miami, and New York City, known for celebrity clientele and cutting-edge techniques
- Tech industry centers like Seattle, San Francisco, San Jose, Phoenix, Denver, and Austin show high concentrations of both plastic surgeons and medaesthetic providers, with professionals often seeking cosmetic enhancements to gain a competitive edge
- Salt Lake City has emerged as a surprising plastic surgery hub, ranking second nationally for surgeon density in 2016, influenced by environmental factors like high-altitude (at 4,265 feet above sea level), exposure to lots of UV rays, and demographic considerations, including Utah having one of the youngest marriage ages and the second-highest birth rate, driving demand for procedures like tummy tucks among young mothers
Choosing the right Plastic Surgery Location
When choosing the best place for plastic surgery, consider these essential factors:
- Surgeon Credentials: Verify board certification by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and specialized expertise in your desired procedure
- Facility Accreditation: Ensure the surgical center meets rigorous safety standards through organizations like AAAASF or the Joint Commission
- Patient Testimonials: Research authentic reviews discussing both plastic surgery results and the overall care experience
- Recovery Logistics: Consider travel requirements, local accommodations, and accessibility of follow-up care
- Personal Comfort: Evaluate your comfort level with both the location and the surgical team
Research each potential destination thoroughly to ensure alignment with your specific aesthetic goals and medical needs.
What Makes a City Stand Out for Plastic Surgery?
Several key factors determine which cities excel as destinations for plastic surgery. The concentration of board-certified plastic surgeons serves as the primary indicator of a city’s surgical excellence.
Surgeon expertise and credentials form the foundation of any top-tier plastic surgery destination. Cities with established medical schools and residency programs typically produce more skilled practitioners.
Population demographics significantly influence a city’s ranking. Areas with higher concentrations of younger, affluent residents often support more plastic surgeons per capita.
The following factors contribute to a city’s plastic surgery reputation:
- Number of board-certified plastic surgeons per 100,000 residents
- Quality of medical facilities and surgical centers
- Range of procedures offered
- Patient safety records and outcomes
- Accessibility and cost considerations
University medical programs play a crucial role in developing plastic surgery hubs. Cities like Nashville and Louisville have emerged as unexpected leaders due to their specialized academic centers.
Geographic appeal also matters. Miami leads nationally with 18 plastic surgeons per 100,000 people, benefiting from its international clientele and cosmetic surgery culture.
State-of-the-art facilities and advanced technology distinguish premier destinations. Cities investing in modern surgical equipment and techniques attract both top surgeons and discerning patients.
The reputation of local practitioners creates a snowball effect. When skilled plastic surgeons establish practices in specific areas, they often attract other talented professionals to the same region.
The density of qualified plastic surgeons serves as the primary indicator of a city’s surgical excellence. Cities with higher surgeon-to-population ratios typically offer patients more choices and competitive pricing.
Top Cities by Surgeon Density:
- Miami, Florida: 18 per 100,000
- Atlanta, Georgia: 15.9 per 100,000
- Dallas, Texas: 10.5 per 100,000
- San Francisco, California: 10.5 per 100,000
New York City, despite having 249 total plastic surgeons, ranks 42nd nationally due to its large population. Smaller cities like Nashville and Louisville achieve higher rankings through specialized university programs and growing affluent populations.
10 Best Cities for Plastic Surgery
Let’s explore some of the top cities across the United States that have established themselves as premier destinations for plastic surgery, offering exceptional surgical expertise, state-of-the-art facilities, and specialized care.

1. Miami
Miami has established itself as the premier plastic surgery destination in the US—this city has the most plastic surgeons per capita, with approximately 3.90 surgeons per 100,000 residents. This concentration reflects the unique influence of South Beach culture and sunny days every year, creating an environment where aesthetic enhancement is both celebrated and normalized.
Miami’s multicultural environment, beaches, and vibrant culture have fostered expertise in techniques suitable for diverse skin types and body structures. Surgeons here often specialize in achieving natural-looking results that complement various ethnic characteristics.
However, patients should exercise caution when selecting providers in Miami, as the city has seen the emergence of what surgeons refer to as ‘chop shops’ or ‘plastic surgery factories.’ In these establishments, patients might not meet their surgeon until the day of the procedure and could be discharged without comprehensive aftercare instructions.

2. Beverly Hills
Beverly Hills stands as the quintessential hub for cosmetic procedures in America. This iconic location is synonymous with luxury and attracts elite plastic surgeons who cater to celebrities and affluent clients seeking discretion and exceptional results.
The area boasts numerous board-certified specialists with extensive experience in innovative techniques. Many Beverly Hills surgeons pioneer cutting-edge procedures before they become mainstream elsewhere, particularly in facial rejuvenation procedures that preserve unique characteristics while addressing signs of aging.
Patients often cite the comprehensive experience as a primary draw, with luxury recovery facilities and personalized aftercare programs. The concentration of expertise in facial procedures, body contouring, and aesthetic enhancements makes it a destination for those seeking the highest quality outcomes.
Though procedures here typically command premium prices, many consider the investment worthwhile for the specialized expertise and established reputation of Beverly Hills practitioners.

3. New York City
New York City houses some of the nation’s most prestigious plastic surgery practices, particularly in Manhattan. The city ranks eighth nationally with 2.61 plastic surgeons per 100,000 residents, reflecting its significant but surprisingly not dominant position in the national plastic surgery landscape despite its reputation for luxury and high fashion.
NYC surgeons often hold faculty positions at renowned medical institutions, combining clinical practice with academic research. This connection to medical innovation gives patients access to progressive techniques and treatments.
The city’s diverse population has fostered specialization among surgeons for various ethnic facial features and body types. Patients seeking facial enhancements through procedures like rhinoplasty and eyelid surgery benefit from this specialized approach to different anatomical characteristics.

4. Atlanta
Atlanta has established itself as the Southeast’s premier plastic surgery destination. The city combines southern accessibility with sophisticated medical infrastructure.
Several renowned Atlanta practices maintain close relationships with medical research facilities, incorporating evidence-based innovations into their surgical approaches. These connections ensure patients receive contemporary care based on the latest advancements.
The city offers a favorable cost structure compared to northern and western counterparts. Many patients appreciate the combination of board-certified expertise, modern facilities, and relatively moderate pricing that Atlanta provides.
The metropolitan area’s expanding luxury recovery options make it increasingly attractive for patients traveling from other regions seeking comprehensive care.

5. Dallas
Dallas has gained recognition for its blend of surgical excellence and Southern hospitality. The city features several advanced plastic surgery centers that combine cutting-edge technology with personalized patient care.
Texas’s favorable regulatory environment has attracted talented surgeons who appreciate the balance of quality standards and practice freedom. Many Dallas practices offer comprehensive facilities including on-site surgical suites and recovery areas.
The Dallas market offers substantial cost advantages compared to coastal cities. Patients typically find procedures cost 15-30% less than identical services in Beverly Hills or New York without compromising surgical quality.
The Dallas market emphasizes natural-looking results rather than obvious transformations. This aesthetic philosophy aligns with local preferences for subtle enhancements rather than dramatic changes.

6. Chicago
Chicago provides Midwest residents with metropolitan-level plastic surgery expertise without requiring coastal travel. The city’s medical district houses several renowned plastic surgery practices with academic affiliations.
University-affiliated surgeons often combine clinical practice with research activities. This academic connection gives patients access to innovative techniques and evidence-based treatment approaches.
Chicago’s competitive healthcare market drives continuous improvement in surgical techniques and patient care standards. The concentration of medical professionals creates an environment focused on achieving optimal outcomes.
Transportation accessibility makes Chicago attractive for patients throughout the Midwest. The city’s central location and major airport connections facilitate travel for out-of-state patients seeking specialized procedures.
Recovery accommodations near medical facilities provide convenient options for traveling patients. Many practices coordinate with local hotels offering medical recovery packages.

7. San Francisco
San Francisco ranks among the premier destinations for plastic surgery in the United States. The city secured the fourth position nationally with 10.5 plastic surgeons per 100,000 residents.
The Bay Area attracts top-tier plastic surgeons due to its reputation for high-quality healthcare services. San Francisco’s robust plastic surgery community consists of board-certified practitioners with impressive backgrounds and ratings.
Geographic accessibility makes San Francisco attractive to patients throughout Northern California. The city serves as a regional hub for advanced cosmetic procedures.
The concentration of medical expertise creates an environment where surgeons regularly collaborate and share knowledge. This professional network contributes to consistently high surgical outcomes.
San Francisco’s position in the top ten nationally reflects both the quality of available surgeons and the city’s commitment to medical excellence. The combination of skilled practitioners and advanced facilities makes it a reliable choice for plastic surgery procedures.

8. Philadelphia
Philadelphia ranks as one of the top 100 cities worldwide for livability and prosperity. The city offers plastic surgery patients a combination of affordability and accessibility that many major metropolitan areas lack.
Philadelphia hosts numerous prestigious medical institutions and teaching hospitals. The city’s concentration of medical schools produces highly trained plastic surgeons. Patients benefit from access to both academic medical centers and private practice specialists.
Philadelphia earned recognition as America’s most walkable city for three consecutive years. The comprehensive public transportation system connects patients to medical facilities throughout the metropolitan area.
Philadelphia maintains one of America’s highest concentrations of college graduates and young professionals. This educated population supports a robust medical community with specialists in various plastic surgery disciplines.
The city provides numerous cultural attractions and dining options for patients during recovery. Food & Wine magazine named Philadelphia a Top 10 U.S. city for food and drink in 2025. The walkable neighborhoods allow patients to gradually increase activity levels as they heal.

9. Salt Lake City
Salt Lake City has established itself as a prominent destination for plastic surgery procedures in the Mountain West region. The city offers patients access to 133 board-certified plastic surgeons with an average of 24 years of experience.
The market provides extensive options for patients seeking both aesthetic and reconstructive procedures. Current data shows 42 plastic surgeons are accepting new patients, with 25 accepting Medicare coverage.
Patient satisfaction remains high across the city’s plastic surgery providers. Reviews indicate an average 4-star rating across 2,443 patient evaluations.
Several practices specialize in advanced techniques such as robotic hair restoration and skin cancer reconstruction procedures.

10. Seattle
Seattle stands as a prominent destination for plastic surgery in the Pacific Northwest. The city hosts numerous board-certified plastic surgeons practicing at prestigious medical institutions.
Major Medical Centers:
- UW Medical Center – Montlake
- Swedish Plastics and Aesthetics
- Virginia Mason Medical Center
- Optum – Nordstrom Tower
The city’s plastic surgeons offer comprehensive services ranging from reconstructive procedures to cosmetic enhancements. Many specialists focus on breast reconstruction, facial rejuvenation, and body contouring procedures.
Seattle’s medical community includes experts in specialized fields such as: vancer reconstruction, transgender surgery services, and microvascular surgery.
The city attracts patients seeking both cosmetic and reconstructive procedures. Seattle’s surgeons often hold affiliations with the University of Washington medical programs, ensuring access to advanced training and techniques.
Medical facilities in Seattle typically offer state-of-the-art surgical suites and comprehensive patient care. The city’s plastic surgery community maintains strong connections to research institutions, contributing to innovative treatment approaches and surgical techniques.
Plastic Surgery in Leading Cities: Key Facts and Stats
When measured by the number of plastic surgeons per capita, Miami leads the nation with approximately 3.90 surgeons per 100,000 residents, followed by Salt Lake City (3.12), Los Angeles (2.98), San Jose, and San Francisco according to a 2016 report by StatInvestor. This surgeon density highlights the importance of considering specialist availability when selecting a destination for procedures.
Consumer interest presents another valuable metric for evaluating cities for plastic surgery. According to a 2014 RealSelf analysis, San Antonio showed the highest resident interest in plastic surgery based on search behavior, followed by Oklahoma City and Austin—an insight that challenges assumptions about demand aligning with surgeon density. While the data is dated, it highlights how interest can thrive in less expected markets, suggesting broader trends that newer reports may further illuminate.
While coastal cities dominate the plastic surgery landscape, metropolitan areas including Houston, Chicago, Dallas, Atlanta, and Scottsdale have emerged as notable contenders offering excellent surgical options with world-class medical infrastructure and surgeons possessing impressive credentials.
Board-certified plastic surgeons report infection rates below 2% for most elective procedures when performed in accredited facilities.
most frequently performed cosmetic surgical procedures in the U.S
According to the 2023 ASPS Procedural Statistics and The Aesthetic Society’s annual report, the most frequently performed cosmetic surgical procedures in the U.S. were
- liposuction,
- breast augmentation,
- abdominoplasty (tummy tuck),
- mastopexy (breast lift), and
- blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery),
- rhytidectomy (facelift) and
- rhinoplasty (nose reshaping).
Most-searched cosmetic procedures nationwide
Industry data from RealSelf identifies the most-searched cosmetic procedures nationwide as
- breast augmentation,
- butt lift,
- tummy tuck,
- rhinoplasty,
- breast reduction,
- ‘mommy makeover,’
- Botox,
- liposuction, and
- eyelid surgery
All providing valuable insight into procedures generating the highest consumer interest.
Non-surgical aesthetic treatments have seen dramatic growth in recent years. Botox injections, dermal fillers, and laser treatments offer patients less invasive alternatives with minimal recovery time.
Top centers now provide comprehensive non-surgical treatment menus including a range of advanced skin rejuvenation, skin tightening and resurfacing procedures, specialized therapies for addressing age spots and sun damage, acne treatments, and innovative light therapies.
Key Factors for Choosing the Right Plastic Surgery Location
Selecting the right location for plastic surgery involves evaluating several critical elements that can significantly impact your experience and results. The decision extends beyond geography to include the quality of medical expertise and facilities available in each area.
1. Expertise of the Plastic Surgeon: Credentials That Matter
Board certification should be the non-negotiable first criterion when evaluating a location for plastic surgery. Cities with a high concentration of surgeons certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery typically offer more specialized expertise and safer outcomes.
When researching surgeons, several red flags warrant immediate caution:
- Inability to meet with your actual surgeon prior to the day of surgery
- Practices using generic terms like ‘provider’ without specifying credentials
- Operations structured primarily as sales companies with centralized call centers servicing multiple locations
Transparency regarding who will perform your procedure represents a fundamental aspect of ethical plastic surgery practice.
Look for locations where surgeons regularly perform your specific procedure. A surgeon who completes multiple rhinoplasties weekly in Beverly Hills, for example, will likely have more refined techniques than one who performs the procedure occasionally in a smaller market.
When selecting a plastic surgery center, prioritize those held in high regard within the industry that consistently deliver quality results. Reputation among peers often signals excellence in both surgical technique and patient care.
The level of personalized care offered varies significantly between locations and practices. Premier plastic surgery destinations feature surgeons who view themselves as partners in realizing the patient’s aesthetic vision, taking time to understand individual goals while providing honest guidance about realistic expectations.
Boutique practices often provide more individualized attention compared to high-volume clinics, with direct access to your surgeon throughout your journey—from consultation through recovery. This continuity of care ensures consistent communication and allows for immediate adjustments to your treatment plan when necessary.
Teaching hospitals and academic centers often indicate areas with cutting-edge surgical knowledge. Cities like Boston, with its medical education infrastructure, tend to attract surgeons who are not only practitioners but also educators and researchers in their fields.
2. Cutting-Edge Technological Advancements
Leading plastic surgery destinations invest in state-of-the-art technology that enhances surgical precision and patient outcomes. Look for locations where clinics utilize 3D imaging for surgical planning, which allows patients to visualize potential results before procedures.
Cities at the forefront of cosmetic innovation typically offer advanced options like minimally invasive techniques that reduce recovery time. These might include endoscopic procedures that minimize scarring or laser technologies that improve skin texture with reduced downtime.
Recovery technology should also factor into your decision. Leading plastic surgery destinations often house teams actively involved in research and clinical studies evaluating new treatments and techniques. Centers participating in this innovation typically provide patients with access to the most current advancements in aesthetic medicine before they become widely available elsewhere.
Locations with hyperbaric oxygen chambers, LED therapy, and specialized post-operative care facilities can significantly improve healing times and final results.
3. Quality of Care and Facilities
Accreditation of surgical facilities is paramount when evaluating a location. The best plastic surgery destinations feature clinics accredited by organizations like the American Association for Accreditation of Ambulatory Surgery Facilities (AAAASF) or the Joint Commission.
The ratio of support staff to patients often indicates the level of personalized care you’ll receive. Premium plastic surgery locations maintain well-staffed recovery facilities with specialized nurses trained in post-operative care.
Emergency readiness should also be considered. Ideal locations have plastic surgery centers with proximity to major hospitals or on-site capabilities to handle any complications that might arise during procedures.
Boutique plastic surgery clinics provide a uniquely personalized experience where patients work directly with their surgeon from consultation through recovery. This approach ensures continuity of care and allows for treatment plans that truly reflect individual goals and values.
4. Cost and Patient Experience Considerations
Price variations for plastic surgery can be substantial across different U.S. regions. While major metropolitan areas like New York and Los Angeles typically command premium prices, cities like Miami and Dallas often offer comparable quality at more moderate rates.
Consider the complete financial picture beyond the surgical fee. Some locations may have lower procedure costs but higher expenses for accommodations, follow-up care, and recovery facilities.
Insurance considerations vary by location as well. Some areas have better networks of surgeons who work with insurance for reconstructive procedures, which can significantly impact out-of-pocket expenses for medically necessary treatments.
Authentic patient reviews offer valuable insights into the reputation of plastic surgery providers in different locations. Cities with consistently high patient satisfaction ratings across multiple platforms often indicate areas with superior care standards.
Look beyond star ratings to evaluate the content of reviews. The best plastic surgery destinations typically have detailed patient testimonials discussing not just results but also the entire care experience from consultation through recovery.
Media recognition can provide additional validation of a surgeon’s expertise. Surgeons featured in respected publications and media outlets have typically demonstrated exceptional results and innovative approaches that warrant broader attention.
Cultural diversity and acceptance in a location can significantly impact patient comfort. Cities with diverse populations often foster environments where patients feel more comfortable pursuing cosmetic enhancements without judgment or stigma.
Schedule a Consultation
Your choice of plastic surgeon is perhaps the most important decision you’ll make in your aesthetic journey. When you select a boutique practice like Dr. K Miami Plastic Surgery, you gain access to Harvard and Johns Hopkins-trained expertise in a personalized setting where your unique goals and concerns receive undivided attention.
Dr. Bart Kachniarz offers the perfect combination of prestigious training, artistic vision, and compassionate care. His boutique practice ensures you’ll work directly with him from consultation through recovery, creating a seamless experience where your satisfaction remains the highest priority.
Don’t compromise on your aesthetic goals. Experience the difference that elite training and personalized care can make by scheduling your free consultation with Dr. K today.
Schedule a consultation with us at our Miami practice to begin your transformation journey with Miami’s premier plastic surgeon.