Choosing a Plastic Surgeon in Marin County: Your Complete Guide in 2026

Planning plastic surgery is a big decision, and finding the right surgeon shouldn't feel overwhelming. Whether you're in San Rafael, Mill Valley, or anywhere else in Marin County, this guide will help you make an informed choice that prioritizes your safety and goals when it comes to researching plastic surgery specialists serving Marin County.

Summary

If you're short on time, here's what matters most: Find a board-certified plastic surgeon (ABPS certified), make sure they operate in an accredited facility, look at their before-and-after photos that match your goals, understand their policies on complications and revisions, and read verified patient reviews. Don't forget the practical stuff like hospital privileges and how you'll handle aftercare across Marin County's spread-out cities.

1. Make Sure They're Actually a Plastic Surgeon

Here's something that might surprise you: not everyone calling themselves a "cosmetic surgeon" has the same training. In the United States, a true plastic surgeon is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) after completing an accredited residency and passing rigorous exams.

Ask these questions:

• Are you ABPS-certified? What year did you get certified?
• Do you have hospital privileges for my specific procedure?
• What percentage of your practice focuses on the procedure I want?

Marin County tip: Ask them to verify their hospital privileges at local facilities that serve Marin patients.

2. Safety Should Be Your Top Priority

Your surgeon should operate in an accredited facility, look for accreditation from organizations like AAAASF, AAAHC, or The Joint Commission. They should also have a clear plan for anesthesia and emergency situations.

Key questions to ask:

• Where will my surgery happen, and who accredited the facility?
• Who will handle my anesthesia, an MD anesthesiologist or a CRNA?
• What's the plan if there's an emergency or if I need to be transferred?

3. Look for Results That Match Your Goals

A picture is worth a thousand words, especially when it comes to plastic surgery results. You want to see consistent, high-quality before-and-after photos that relate to your situation.

What to look for:

• Patients with similar age, skin quality, and body type to yours
• Results that have fully healed (3-12+ months post-surgery, not just right after)
• Clear views of scar placement and symmetry
• Examples of revision work and how often revisions are needed

4. Do Your Homework on Their Reputation

Star ratings only tell part of the story. Read the actual reviews, especially ones that talk about communication, bedside manner, how well risks were explained, and how responsive the practice was during recovery.

Where to check:

• Verified review platforms and state medical board records for any disciplinary actions
• Look for consistency across Google, RealSelf, and the practice's own reviews
• Pay attention to how the practice responds when things don't go perfectly

5. Everything Should Be Transparent

A trustworthy surgeon will be upfront about risks, costs, and what your recovery will look like. No surprises, no pressure tactics.

Get clear answers on:

• Total cost estimate, surgeon fees, facility costs, anesthesia, everything
• What aftercare includes (dressings, compression garments, massage, scar care)
• What happens if there's a complication, who pays, and who provides the care

Marin County reality check: Think about drive times between cities (Novato to Sausalito isn't exactly a quick trip), parking situations, and making sure someone can drive you after anesthesia.

Learn about Botox pricing and facelift pricing in Marin County.

6. Surgery vs. Non-Surgical: Know Your Options

Sometimes, non-surgical treatments like fillers or energy-based devices can get you where you want to go. But they can't do everything. If you need significant structural changes or have excess skin, surgery might be your best bet.

Surgery makes sense for:

• Tummy tucks when you have separated muscles or loose skin
• Nose jobs for breathing issues or major shape changes
• Breast lifts for significant sagging

Non-surgical works well for:

• Fine lines and wrinkles
• Subtle volume loss
• Early skin laxity

When to wait:

• Your weight isn't stable
• You're rushing to meet an unrealistic timeline
• You have health conditions that aren't well-managed

7. Find Someone You Actually Like

You'll be working with this surgeon for months, from consultation through recovery. Choose someone who listens to you, sets realistic expectations, and gives you detailed information in writing.

Good signs:

• They spend time reviewing photos with you and discussing sizing (for breast procedures)
• They're honest about limitations and what scars you'll have
• They encourage second opinions and welcome your questions
• Everything important gets put in writing

8. Red Flags to Watch Out For

Trust your instincts if something feels off. Here are some definite warning signs:

• Vague credentials or claims of being "board certified" without specifying ABPS
• Operating rooms that aren't properly accredited
• High-pressure sales tactics or "limited time" pricing
• Reluctance to discuss complications or show recent results
• A one-size-fits-all approach to procedures

9. Your Consultation Game Plan

Come prepared to make the most of your consultation:

Bring with you:

• Clear description of your goals (1-2 sentences)
• 2-3 photos of results you like (and some you don't)
• Complete medical history, including medications, allergies, previous surgeries, and weight changes
• This guide or a list of your questions

Get in writing:

• Detailed cost breakdown (surgeon, facility, anesthesia, supplies)
• Follow-up care plan
• Revision policy

Meet Our Experts

At Aesthetx, our board-certified plastic surgeons bring decades of combined experience to Marin County patients. Each of our surgeons is ABPS-certified and maintains hospital privileges at leading Bay Area medical centers.

Dr. Bao Tran, MD, is a leader in the field of aesthetic surgery, blending expert technical skill with a deep understanding of timeless beauty. Her approach emphasizes personalized care, artistic precision, and transformative results, ensuring patients feel confident and empowered throughout their aesthetic journey in Marin County.

Dr. Kamakshi R. Zeidler specializes in breast reconstruction for women with BRCA gene mutations and cancer, as well as cosmetic procedures. Known for her patient-centered approach and innovative techniques like subfascial placement with mesh, she's recognized for achieving exceptional, natural-feeling results.

Dr. Michele Koo, MD, FACS, is a nationally recognized plastic surgeon renowned for her exceptional aesthetic eye and meticulous attention to detail. She specializes in breast and body transformations that look and feel remarkably natural, while also offering comprehensive non-surgical treatments and medically-guided weight loss programs.

Dr. Jane Weston, MD, FACS, brings extensive leadership experience from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, where she co-founded the Women Plastic Surgeons Committee and served in key roles. Her commitment to excellence extends from her surgical practice to her community involvement and advocacy for the field.

Dr. Dino Elyassnia, MD, FACS, is an elite, board-certified plastic surgeon internationally recognized for his groundbreaking work in closed preservation rhinoplasty and facial aesthetic surgery. Based in our Marin location, Dr. Elyassnia provides refined transformations with a surgical philosophy rooted in precision, balance, and natural results.

Dr. Shirley Liu, MD, MH, is known for her meticulous technique, artistic eye, and warm approach to patient care. With a background in the arts, she specializes in body contouring, breast reconstruction, and reconstructive surgery following skin cancer treatment, delivering personalized, natural-looking results.

Our surgeons regularly participate in continuing education and stay current with the latest techniques and safety protocols. They operate exclusively in our state-of-the-art, accredited surgical facilities, ensuring the highest standards of safety and care.

Learn more about our surgeons and see their extensive before-and-after galleries here.

Choosing a plastic surgeon is about finding the right balance of expertise, safety, communication, and practical considerations. Take your time, ask questions, and trust your instincts. The right surgeon will make you feel informed, comfortable, and confident in your decision.

Remember: good plastic surgery should look natural and make you feel like the best version of yourself. Don't settle for anything less.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

At Aesthetx, we understand that choosing the best plastic surgeons in Marin County is one of the most important decisions you'll make. Our board-certified surgeons combine decades of experience with a commitment to safety, natural-looking results, and personalized care for every Marin County patient.

Why choose Aesthetx?

• All surgeons are ABPS board-certified with hospital privileges
• State-of-the-art, accredited surgical facilities
• Comprehensive consultations with transparent pricing
• Extensive before-and-after galleries
• Convenient locations serving all of Marin County

Ready to learn more? 

Schedule your consultation today to discuss your goals with one of our expert surgeons. We'll provide you with all the information you need to make a confident, informed decision about your aesthetic journey.

FAQs

Do you serve patients from Marin County?

Absolutely! We proudly serve patients throughout Marin County, including San Rafael, Mill Valley, Novato, Sausalito, Tiburon, Corte Madera, Larkspur, and surrounding areas. Many of our patients specifically choose Aesthetx for our elevated care and advanced techniques.

What makes Aesthetx different from other plastic surgeons serving Marin County?

Our board-certified surgeons combine Ivy League training with a concierge-level patient experience. We offer state-of-the-art, accredited surgical facilities, comprehensive before-and-after galleries, and transparent pricing with no hidden fees. Plus, our team understands the aesthetic preferences and lifestyle needs of Bay Area patients.

Are all your surgeons board-certified?

Yes, every AesthetX surgeon is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) and maintains hospital privileges at leading medical centers. This ensures you're receiving care from truly qualified plastic surgeons, not just "cosmetic surgeons."

What procedures do you offer for Marin County patients?

We offer the full spectrum of plastic surgery procedures, including breast augmentation, breast lifts, tummy tucks, liposuction, facelifts, rhinoplasty, and body contouring after weight loss. We also provide non-surgical treatments like injectables, skin resurfacing, and medically-supervised weight loss.

How do I schedule a consultation?

Simply call our office or schedule online through our website. We'll discuss whether you'd prefer to start with a virtual or in-person consultation based on your specific interests and timeline.