San Diego Plastic Surgery & Cosmetic Dermatology Patient Testimonials

Meet La Jolla Cosmetic Surgery Centre patient "Judith"

From the time she was a teenager, Judith wished her body was different. Thin with a small chest, she always felt she had a boyish figure. "As I grew up, I never felt like I had a woman's body and it bothered me all the time. I spent a lot of time trying to hide my body with loose clothing and padded bras and even found it hard to look at myself in the mirror."

Judith was seeing board certified dermatologist Dr. Richard Fitzpatrick at La Jolla Cosmetic Surgery for treatment of her skin. One day, while in the waiting room, she saw information about the Plastic Surgery Division of LJCSC. "It was like something I had thought about for so long clicked and I was ready to see a plastic surgeon. I already felt so comfortable at the Centre that I knew it would be the perfect place to have my breast augmentation."

Judith made an appointment that day to see board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Joseph Grzeskiewicz, affectionately called "Dr. G." "The minute I started meeting with Dr. G., I trusted him. I felt so comfortable sharing my feelings about my body image with him." Dr. G. discussed the options available to Judith from saline to silicone implants, placement of the implants under or above the muscle, and what size would best fit her body.

"After Dr. G. met with me, I had the chance to try on different implant sizes and I instantly felt different. They put so much time into helping patients choose the right size that you get to experience what you will look and feel like after surgery." Judith was ready to go ahead with her surgery and couldn't have been more excited. Yet, there was one more thing on her mind.

"I had a bump on my nose that I would find myself focusing on. I decided right then to ask Dr. G. if he could do anything about my nose." After further examination, Judith and Dr. G. decided she would benefit from nose reshaping (rhinoplasty) and it could be performed at the same time as her breast augmentation.

Judith said she had absolutely no hesitation going forward with her surgery plans. "Dr. G and everyone at LJCSC treated me like I was part of their family so I felt completely confident that I was making the right choice." Judith said the only resistance she met to having her procedures performed came from her own family and friends. "They kept telling me I was perfect the way I was and didn’t need anything. I realized that no matter what anyone else said or wanted, I knew it was the right choice for me."

Judith recovered from her nose reshaping and breast augmentation and feels like a new woman. "It's amazing the difference changing these two areas of my body has had on how I view myself. I love the way I look now and I’ve never felt like that before."

• Meet Judith's doctor, Board Certified San Diego Plastic Surgeon Dr. Grzeskiewicz

Meet La Jolla Cosmetic Surgery Centre patient "Gudrun"

Growing up in Iceland, Gudrun treasured the days when the sun was shining and she could catch a few rays. With her fair skin, those sunbathing days resulted in repeated sunburns. Little did Gudrun know back then that burns from the sun turn into wrinkles and age spots later in life. “As I got older, I hated all the freckles on my face and the wrinkles, especially around my eyes.” Gudrun works in the perfect place to address her concerns. A registered nurse for the plastic surgery division of La Jolla Cosmetic Surgery Centre (LJCSC), Gudrun spends her days helping others realize their dreams through cosmetic surgery. “I love what I do. I get to help people change things about themselves that really bothers them and see them become so happy and confident.” Gudrun decided it was time to get a consultation about her skin with Dr. Richard Fitzpatrick, a board certified dermatologist and Medical Director of the Dermatology Division of LJCSC.

“Dr. Fitzpatrick is known around the world for his work with lasers, yet he is so kind and down to earth. I was confident he would know just what I needed.” Dr. Fitzpatrick recommended that Gudrun have full face and neck resurfacing with the Fraxel re:pair, a fractionated CO2 laser that deeply penetrates the skin and helps to rebuild collagen. Since Gudrun had a lot of freckles and brown spots from the sun, he wanted to use the Alexandrite laser to address those problems and the V-Beam to take care of broken blood vessels. “I never hesitated for a moment. I just told Dr. Fitzpatrick that I trusted his decision and was so excited to have a fresh face and neck.” Gudrun wanted the entire “LJCSC experience” so she went through the process just as she has seen many patients do from consultation to follow-up visits. “We don’t often get to be on the side of being a patient and it was an incredible experience. They took such great care of me before, during and after the procedure and the best part for me is that I was never in any type of pain.”

Gudrun’s face and neck healed beautifully, and years of sun worshipping were eliminated with the help of Dr. Fitzpatrick and the combination of lasers. “I take such good care of my skin now, using sunscreen everyday and watching myself in the sun.” Gudrun says that her friends, family and even patients are always commenting on how beautiful and fresh her skin looks.

Gudrun’s beautiful glow is even brighter this month as she proudly became an American citizen. Gudrun commented that we are so lucky to have the team of employees and physicians that work at LJCSC, making it such a special place. Well Gudrun, LJCSC patients, doctors, and staff are lucky to have your smiling face!

• Meet Gudrun's doctor, Board Certified San Diego Dermatologist Dr. Fitzpatrick

Meet La Jolla Cosmetic Surgery Centre patient "Beth"

Four years ago, Beth set out on a journey that would change her life forever. It began with gastric bypass surgery, resulting in an amazing weight loss of over 130 pounds. Like many people who experience massive weight loss, Beth was left with excess skin. “Overall, I was really very lucky that my skin bounced back better than most. The first change that was hard for me to handle was my saggy breasts.”

Beth wasn’t looking to change the size of her breast, but wanted them in a good position that would make wearing a bra much easier. So the next step on her transformation was to find a plastic surgeon to perform a breast lift (mastopexy). “I asked friends for recommendations and turned to the Internet to research everything I could about breast lifts. I repeatedly kept coming across La Jolla Cosmetic Surgery Centre in my searches.” Beth said what she loved about the website was that any time, day or night, she could just sit and read all of the information and look at before and after pictures. Although she wasn’t really set on one plastic surgeon at LJCSC, she thought she would visit Dr. Lori Saltz, the Centre’s Medical Director.

“I had made about five or six consultations with other plastic surgeons but the minute I walked through the doors of LJCSC, I felt comfortable.” Her consultation with Dr. Saltz was better than she could have ever imagined. “I loved that she didn’t rush me and took what I felt was a completely embarrassing situation, and made me realize that it is a common problem that occurs with weight loss and aging. “I had complete confidence in her as a surgeon and felt that she truly cared about me as a person.”

Beth scheduled her surgery and recalls that on the day of surgery, her husband was waiting patiently in the living room of LJCSC. He later told Beth that Dr. Saltz had done quite a remarkable thing during her procedure. “After she had completed one side of my breast lift, she took a picture and brought it out to my husband to show him how amazing they were going to look. The fact that she not only took the time to talk to my husband, but was so personally excited about the result, is something we will always remember.”

The year after her breast surgery, Beth decided she was ready to take the last step in her weight loss and body beautification journey. “I knew what a big procedure I was facing, and I also knew there was no one better than Dr. Saltz to be by my side. “ Beth met with Dr. Saltz to discuss a body lift, a procedure that eliminates large amounts of excess skin. “At the same time, I wanted to do a thigh lift and Dr. Saltz told me that she really felt I wouldn’t be happy with that procedure. I was so pleased, and surprised, with her honesty.” Beth says Dr. Saltz’s integrity, candor, and of course excellent surgical skills are everything you could ever want from your surgeon.

Beth and Dr. Saltz agreed on a body lift and liposculpture to her thighs. “I love that LJCSC walks you through everything you can expect before and after any procedure. It really makes you feel more in control of your destiny.” Realizing she would have a long recovery and need help, Beth felt comfortable knowing her firefighter husband would be by her side. Unfortunately, two days before her surgery, he was called out of town and was gone for an extended period of time.

“When people say that plastic surgery has to be something you personally want, it’s very true because you have to be ready to go through the highs and the lows.” Beth credits her 11-year old son for being such a big help to her and as she healed, she saw a body she could never have imagined would be hers.

“I look at this entire process from the weight loss surgery to the cosmetic procedures as a road I needed to travel. For me, the cosmetic procedures were truly the icing on the cake.” Asked how she has changed physically and emotionally, Beth says she is completely different. “It’s hard to put into words but I am a better mother, wife, and individual. I am forever changed for the better.”

Beth said that if she were helping someone else pick a plastic surgeon, beyond just surgical skills, she would say the primary things to look for are integrity, honesty, and a personal commitment to you as the patient. “With Dr. Saltz and the entire team at LJCSC, I found all that and more.”

• Meet Beth's doctor, Board Certified San Diego Plastic Surgeon Dr. Saltz

Meet La Jolla Cosmetic Surgery Centre patient "Suzanne"

If Suzanne’s friends and family were to vote someone "least likely to have cosmetic surgery," she would no doubt be the winner. Never one to primp or give much attention to her appearance, Suzanne admits that her biggest beauty splurge was occasionally having her nails done. So what was the turning point that took this energetic, athletic woman in her 60s to decide she was ready for a change?

"I would have to say that there comes a moment when you catch a glance of yourself in the mirror and think, who is that old woman?" Suzanne laughs as she recalls that her father affectionately referred to her mom as "the lion" because her mother’s face was full of wrinkles and loose skin.  "It never seemed to bother her and I didn’t think I would care about it either, but I did."

Ready to improve her appearance to be in sync with her youthful inner feelings, Suzanne began a series of consultations with plastic surgeons. "This was all so foreign to me. I had no idea what the right surgery was or even how to choose a surgeon." Suzanne selected a physician and was ready to go forward, or so she thought.

"I hadn’t told any of my friends that I was going to have cosmetic surgery. Prior to going through the process, I was meeting a group of women friends for lunch when coincidentally, they were talking about plastic surgery!" One of Suzanne’s friends who had also gone through many consultations was raving about La Jolla Cosmetic Surgery Centre’s Dr. Johan Brahme. Suzanne realized that she had seen most of the surgeons that were being discussed, except Dr. Brahme, a board certified plastic surgeon.

"I had this feeling that even though I thought I had made the right decision with the surgeon I had selected, I needed to meet Dr. Brahme and see what the buzz was all about. "Suzanne did just that and felt an instant connection. "When Dr. Brahme came in to see me, I knew that he was someone special." Suzanne says that his signature colorful eyeglasses, love of music, and confident style were all the perfect combination for her. She made the decision that day to switch surgeons.

To achieve Suzanne’s aesthetic desires, Dr. Brahme recommended a face and neck lift, removing excess skin and fat from her upper and lower eyelids, a brow lift, and Artefill, a long-lasting filler for the deep lines around her nose and mouth. "I had such confidence in Dr. Brahme and the staff at LJCSC that I knew I had made the right choice."

Suzanne is thrilled with the reflection she now sees in the mirror. "A great plastic surgeon is one that is not only a good doctor, but an artist.  What Dr. Brahme does is truly a gift."

Remembering back to that lunch that changed her entire course of surgery, Suzanne was asked what she would tell friends that were looking for the right plastic surgeon. "I’d say there’s no reason to look any further. Without a doubt go to Dr. Brahme at La Jolla Cosmetic Surgery Centre." 

• Meet Suzanne's doctor, Board Certified San Diego Plastic Surgeon Dr. Brahme

Meet La Jolla Cosmetic Surgery Centre patient "Jessie"

Is there a "right age" to begin having plastic surgery? That's something 26-year-old Jessie always wondered. Spending most of her youth and young adulthood playing sports, Jessie described herself as having a body that never made her feel very feminine. "I had this strong, athletic build combined with a very flat chest. I hated that." Jessie recalls being in high school and imagining one day she would have a breast augmentation to make herself feel better about her body.

When Jessie turned 20, she set out to find a plastic surgeon to perform her breast augmentation. After three separate consultations, she decided not to have the surgery. "Having plastic surgery is so much more than just a physical act. You have to really be prepared mentally and I just knew my head wasn't in the right place to proceed."

Yet Jessie said as the years passed, she never lost the feeling of wanting to make some changes to her body. Just about that time, she saw some pictures of the work of La Jolla Cosmetic Surgery Centre's Dr. Joseph Grzeskiewicz (Dr. G.), a board certified plastic surgeon. "I looked at the before and afters and knew I was ready. I met with Dr. G. and found him to be so sensitive and attentive not only to my goals, but to my fears." Jessie recalls having the opportunity to try on various implants during her consultation and really began to feel what a difference the surgery could make in her life.

"I guess it may be hard for some people to understand how a breast augmentation or any type of plastic surgery could be so life-changing. But when you are emotionally ready and are doing it for yourself, it's an amazing feeling." Jessie and Dr. G. also discussed some areas of unwanted fat that had been bothering her and designed a plan to do liposuction of her thighs and stomach during the same surgery session. "I couldn't believe I was finally going to get breast implants and have liposuction. I was ready."

As the day of surgery approached, Jessie felt the staff at LJCSC and Dr. G. had completely prepared her for everything from surgery to her after-care. "The entire team makes sure that they answer all of your questions, no matter how small they may seem. Everyone is so accessible to you that you are completely confident you are receiving the best care possible."

On the morning of surgery, as Dr. G. came in to greet Jessie and do her markings for liposuction, she developed an unexpected case of last minute fear and uncertainty about her breast augmentation. "I don’t know what happened. It was the one thing I had wanted for 10 years and suddenly I felt unsure." Dr. G and the operating room team took the time to go over details with Jessie and then give her some alone time to think things through. "I will never forget that morning. There was no pressure and Dr. G. was unbelievable. All he cared about was that I felt comfortable and good about my choice."

Jessie chose to have the liposuction and breast augmentation and says it was the best decision she could have made. "The surgery didn't just change my appearance, it changed how I felt inside. I have so much more confidence now and it has kept me motivated to stay on a healthy eating and exercise program. I don’t want to waste all that work!"

Jessie says she is forever grateful to Dr. G. for his impressive surgical skills but more importantly, his devotion and care he gives his patients. "There isn't a day that goes by that I don't pass by a mirror and am still surprised that this body is really mine."

• Meet Jesise's doctor, Board Certified San Diego Plastic Surgeon Dr. Grzeskiewicz

Meet La Jolla Cosmetic Surgery Centre patient "Jenna"

Most dermatologists would agree that no condition is more challenging to effectively treat than melasma. Jenna, a mother of two toddlers can say first hand just how frustrating melasma is for the patient. "I first started noticing the darker areas after my first child and then with my second pregnancy, it was terrible and didn't fade." Often called the "mask of pregnancy," melasma causes dark areas on the sun-exposed areas of the face like the cheeks, forehead, nose, or upper lip. Like Jenna, patients often complain that it makes it look like they have a dirty face and usually topical creams can only make slight changes.

"I so desperately wanted something that could really erase the dark pigment on my face. I had been to La Jolla Cosmetic Surgery Centre years ago for surgery and had no idea the Centre had a Cosmetic Dermatology Division." Jenna said she read all about the more than 20 lasers at the Centre and was amazed to find that one of the dermatologists, Dr. Richard Fitzpatrick, was instrumental in developing many of the lasers used to rejuvenate and treat skin conditions.

"I trusted LJCSC so much that I didn't hesitate to make an appointment to see Dr. Fitzpatrick." Dr. Fitzpatrick, Director of Dermatology at the Centre saw in Jenna what he has seen thousands of times in his career. He told her that successfully treating melasma is an unpredictable science. As a dermatologist, he explained that it is always disappointing when it doesn't resolve with creams and treatments. He recommended that Jenna try the Fraxel re:store laser to see if it could alleviate her melasma.

"What I loved about Dr. Fitzpatrick was that he was so honest. He did not try to promise me a miracle cure, just hope that there was a possibility that my skin could look normal again. That’s all I wanted."

Jenna underwent multiple treatments with the Fraxel re:store laser and had remarkable results. "I can’t begin to say how thrilled I am with my face." In fact, Jenna said that during her frequent visits to LJCSC, she felt as if the employees and dermatology team treated her as if she were a part of their family.

Through her research on the LJCSC website and from talking to Dr. Fitzpatrick, Jenna also learned that treatment for tattoo removal had come a long way in the past decade. "Since I was 18, I have had a tattoo that didn’t turn out right. I really wanted to have it lightened or removed but wasn’t sure the treatments would work." With the help of Dr. Fitzpatrick and the Alexandrite laser, Jenna is now virtually tattoo-free.

"I have so much confidence in the doctors and staff at LJCSC that I know whatever I need done, I will get superior care while being treated with tender loving care. What more can you ask for?"

• Meet Jenna's doctor, Board Certified San Diego Dermatologist Dr. Fitzpatrick

Meet La Jolla Cosmetic Surgery Centre patient "Christy"

Christy knows what a struggle it is to lose weight. In 8th grade, just when life is beginning to throw so many challenges at you, she weighed 225 pounds and wore a size 22. "I’m a southern girl from Alabama and grew up loving food. When I was a teenager, I moved in with my grandparents and started to become aware of how unhealthy my weight was. My grandmother sent me to nutrition classes and I lost some weight."

Yet like many people, Christy went on a roller coaster of weight gain and loss for much of her life. Two unfortunate circumstances led Christy in a different direction. "I was involved in a bad car accident, while at the same time my husband who is in the Marine Corps was deployed to Iraq. The stress of both of these situations just sort of kick started my weight loss, and then I took total control of staying on track." Christy decided the days of the deep-fried southern foods she loved so much had to take a back seat to her new goal of finally getting in shape, and keeping the weight off.

"I lost 60 pounds over two years and should have been feeling great about myself. Instead, the years of yo-yo dieting had left my body with lots of excess skin that I hated." Knowing her weight loss was permanent this time, she decided to explore surgical options to eliminate the extra skin and give her a body she could be proud of.

Like many patients, Christy thought she knew exactly what procedure she wanted to have - a tummy tuck and liposuction. She researched all the information on the internet and came across the LJCSC website. Reading about board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Lori Saltz, she felt she had found the physician with the right qualifications for her procedure.

"From the time my husband and I walked into La Jolla Cosmetic Surgery Centre, I felt this warmth like I was with family. "Dr. Saltz, LJCSC Medical Director, met with Christy about her goals and desires to change her body. "I loved her immediately. She took the time to explain why an extended belt lipectomy would be the procedure that would help me attain my goals." Christy had never even heard of that procedure and remembers being filled with questions for Dr. Saltz.

"This was going to be a big surgery and Dr. Saltz took the time to explain all the pros and cons to me. The moment I knew she was the perfect surgeon for me was when I asked her to do surgery on my arms to make them smaller. "To Christy’s surprise, Dr. Saltz discouraged her from having the arm surgery (brachioplasty) due to her young age and the scars it would leave. "I was completely shocked. I just figured a plastic surgeon would say yes to anything I would pay for but not Dr. Saltz. She was truly looking out for my best interest."

During Christy's research, she had made a list of plastic surgeons and booked appointments to compare their surgical skills, personal interaction and prices. "Dr. Saltz was my first and my last consultation. There was no reason to look any further."

Christy booked her surgery just a few days after meeting with Dr. Saltz and although she was nervous, she recalls that she never felt alone at LJCSC. Christy says from the front desk, to the nurses, and everyone along the way, you feel as if you are the most important patient.

As for the results, Christy went from a size 12 to a size 6. She returned the following year to have a breast augmentation and lift with Dr. Saltz to complete her new look.

Christy encourages anyone considering plastic surgery to research the procedure, physician and facility very carefully. "Having surgery goes way beyond just the surgical skills. You need to find a physician and team that you can completely trust." Christy says without a doubt, for her, that is Dr. Saltz and LJCSC. "I am still surprised that every time I walk through the door they all remember me and ask about my life. The only word to describe LJCSC is AMAZING!"

• Meet Christy's doctor, Board Certified San Diego Plastic Surgeon Dr. Saltz

Meet La Jolla Cosmetic Surgery Centre patients "Katera" and "Tara"

Not all plastic surgery procedures are designed to create major changes. In fact, sometimes fixing the slightest imperfection can make the biggest difference for a person. For Katera, a previous tummy surgery left her with a belly button that she literally hated. She visited several plastic surgeons before someone recommended she see board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Johan Brahme at La Jolla Cosmetic Surgery Centre. "The minute I met with Dr. Brahme and showed him my belly button he understood exactly what was bothering me. He had complete confidence that he could correct it." Katera was so impressed with Dr. Brahme’s compassionate manner that she decided while she was going under anesthesia for this procedure, it might be a great time to have a neck lift. Previous thyroid surgery had left Katera’s neck with loose skin. "My neck looked so much older than my face or my age. I was always wearing turtlenecks and scarves to keep it covered."

Katera's experience with other plastic surgeons gave her total assurance that Dr. Brahme was the perfect surgeon for her. "You just know when you have the right doctor and Dr. Brahme and the entire team make you feel you’re in hands you can completely trust." Katera was so pleased with her procedures, that she gave the highest compliment to Dr. Brahme by sending her daughter for a consultation.

Tara, Katera's nearly 18 year-old daughter, had always hated her nose. Tara recalls being a child actor and having close-up photos of her face done. "I hated my nose and there was no way to cover it up. I was always trying to brush my hair forward on my face, and avoided any profile photos being taken so I wouldn’t see my nose." Tara knew after high school she was ready to change her nose, but wanted the right surgeon to create the look she was hoping for.

Katera knew she wanted Tara to select her own surgeon, because having trust in your doctor is so important. She even had Tara see several plastic surgeons so she could compare their surgical skills and bedside manner. The last consultation Tara had was with Dr. Brahme. "The minute he came in and started talking to me, it felt different than my previous consultations. He stepped away from being totally technical like the others, and was more concerned with how I felt as a person." Tara had no doubt that Dr. Brahme was the perfect surgeon to do her rhinoplasty (nose surgery).

Dr. Brahme used computer imaging to give Tara an idea of how her face would look following the surgery. "I was so excited about the possibility of the nose I was looking at on the computer that I couldn't wait to get going." Tara says the entire LJCSC team from the front desk to the OR team treated her with such kindness and professionalism.

Tara says that when the "big reveal" of her nose took place several weeks after her surgery, the nose she saw in the mirror was even better than the computer image. "It was more than I could have ever asked for. Dr. Brahme truly has the hands of an angel."

This year, Katera helped Tara pack up and head off to college in San Francisco. Yet mom says she was sending off a young woman with a completely new attitude. Tara was sporting a hairstyle that now showed off her face, instead of trying to hide it.

"I am more outgoing, confident, and even like having photos taken now. I feel as if Dr. Brahme has given me a new start in life" Tara says with a big smile. Tara describes the LJCSC staff as family members. "It’s not just a place to have surgery or treatments. LJCSC changes lives.”

• Meet Katera and Tara's doctor, Board Certified San Diego Plastic Surgeon Dr. Brahme

Meet La Jolla Cosmetic Surgery Centre patient "Julie"

There seems to be a point when the face or body in the mirror feels out of sync with inner feelings or desires. Julie remembers experiencing those exact emotions. "I'm realistic. I wasn't wanting to look 20 years younger, but I knew that my face wasn't representing the real me."

Julie had been a patient of board certified dermatologist Dr. Richard Fitzpatrick, Director of the Dermatology Division of La Jolla Cosmetic Surgery Centre. "I had seen another physician who highly recommended that if I wanted a laser treatment, to go see Dr. Fitzpatrick. I did and loved how fresh my face looked and the elimination of the brown, aging spots on my hands." Julie had the Portrait Plasma resurfacing and loved the results.

Like many patients, several years after her first procedure, Julie decided that tightening the skin on her face would enhance her appearance. She didn't have to go far to find the perfect plastic surgeon for her surgery. Julie consulted with board certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Joseph Grzeskiewicz (Dr. "G"). "One of the greatest things about LJCSC is that you have the best of cosmetic dermatology and plastic surgery all in one office. The physicians and staff coordinate beautifully so everything goes smoothly."

Dr. "G" listened to Julie's desires and gave her a realistic picture of how he could perform a facelift to address the loose skin, while during the same procedure, have Dr. Fitzpatrick resurface the lines under her eyes with the Fraxel re:pair. "It’s amazing that you can have two physicians, from different specialties, work so well together to give the best possible results during one surgery session."

Julie had seen other cosmetic surgeons so she truly could feel the difference with the physicians and staff at LJCSC. "The physicians are so professional and caring, and the employees are incredible." Julie recalls being a "nervous wreck" as her surgery approached and turning to Carrie, who heads the dermatology nursing team, and Gudrun, Dr. "G's" primary nurse. "Not only do they take the time to answer every question, no matter how small it may seem, they do it all with genuine compassion."

Julie loves her results and now says she finds herself visiting LJCSC for Botox to maintain her youthful appearance. "I had these procedures just for me. Yet it is always so nice when someone comments on how rested you look or how your face has that special glow. I love it!"

• Meet Julie's doctors, Board Certified San Diego Plastic Surgeon Dr. Grzeskiewicz
  and Board Certified San Diego Dermatologist Dr. Fitzpatrick

Meet La Jolla Cosmetic Surgery Centre patient "Tammy"

When Tammy saw her reflection in the mirror, she knew what she was seeing did not match her inner youth. "I wanted to do something to make me look as young as I felt, but I had no idea how to accomplish that. I started extensively researching all the options I could find on the Internet, and there were so many I was more confused." Through her search of cosmetic procedures, Tammy came across La Jolla Cosmetic Surgery Centre’s website.

"I think I read everything on your website from top to bottom. I still wasn’t sure what was right for me, but I was confident that I had found the perfect place." Tammy scheduled a consultation with board certified dermatologist Dr. William Groff. Experienced in facial rejuvenation, Dr. Groff carefully explained all the options available to Tammy from injectables to surgery. Tammy did not realize that when she started on this journey, she would find that there are lasers for almost every problem that was bothering her. "Dr. Groff took the time to help me learn what the specific lasers can accomplish and which ones would be best for my skin. I was hoping not to have a facelift yet, so the laser was the perfect answer for me."

Dr. Groff chose a variety of lasers to meet Tammy’s needs, including the Vbeam Perfecta, CO2, and Portrait Plasma. Since each laser addresses a different issue from red spots to sun damage, combining lasers offers patients the best possible results. The dermatology department at LJCSC has over 20 lasers that perform different functions.

"From the time I walked through the doors at LJCSC, I felt comfortable and at home." Tammy recalls that although she felt 100 percent confident with Dr. Groff, she still faced that pre-procedure anxiety. "The staff is amazing. I don’t know how they prepare patients for laser procedures every single day, and somehow still can make you feel so special and cared for."

For someone who had learned all the key steps to take before embarking on any cosmetic surgery, Tammy was still surprised how thorough the LJCSC process was. "I loved how days before my procedure they took the time to review all the risks and benefits of each laser. Feeling I had all the knowledge I needed to make an informed decision was really important to me."

A year after her facial laser resurfacing, Tammy is still singing the praises of Dr. Groff and the LJCSC staff. "His bedside manner is incredibly rare and I really needed that hand holding during my recovery." Tammy was so happy with her first results (although she purposely asked for a very light peel), several weeks ago she was back with Dr. Groff to have a Fraxel re:pair full energy resurfacing. "Not only am I excited to see the final results, I am able to clearly say I had another amazing experience at LJCSC. Whatever you are doing, keep doing it... it works!"

• Meet Tammy's doctor, Board Certified San Diego Dermatologist Dr. Groff

Meet La Jolla Cosmetic Surgery Centre patient "Kim"

This year, Kim became the bride she had always dreamed of being. While her mother discouraged her from revealing too much cleavage in her gown, Kim was determined to pick a dress that accentuated her newly shaped body. Just two years ago, Kim was so self-conscious of having small breasts that she avoided clothes that drew any attention to her chest. This became extremely difficult when her lifestyle with her boyfriend involved regular trips to the river, desert, and formal events. "I was either in a bathing suit or a formal gown, neither of which I felt comfortable being in." Coming from a family of females with large breasts, Kim just assumed they would one day grow.

One summer day, Kim decided it was time to make a change to increase her self-confidence. "I had seen several La Jolla Cosmetic Surgery Centre employees socially that had breast augmentation and looked fabulous. They had similar bodies to mine so I was able to imagine what the surgery would do for me." Kim, with the support of her boyfriend (now husband), came in to LJCSC to meet with board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Joseph Grzeskiewicz (commonly referred to as "Dr. G."). "Dr. G. took all of the information my boyfriend and I were giving him on exactly what type of breasts I wanted. He then gave us a realistic picture of what to expect." Kim says that type of honesty from Dr. G. made her realize that he would do everything he could to provide her with her desired results, but did not over-promise.

"The test-drive program at LJCSC where you actually try on implants with a tee shirt and then take pictures helped me more than I can say. You really get a feel of how you will look following the surgery." Kim says going into surgery with the confidence of not only Dr. G., but of the Centre as a whole, made all the difference in the world. "The two areas that really stand out to me are that the O.R. is certified by the highest standards and follow-up at LJCSC is just as important as the procedure."

Kim says that every visit she makes to LJCSC feels like a trip to see family. "I truly believe that every employee takes such pride in their job and they go above and beyond the call of duty." Kim loves her new look, and wore her wedding dress with great pride. Now expecting her first child, she says the only regret she has is that she did not get the surgery five years earlier!

• Meet Kim's doctor, Board Certified San Diego Plastic Surgeon Dr. Grzeskiewicz

Meet La Jolla Cosmetic Surgery Centre patient "Carla"

When it comes to plastic surgery, almost every patient has a different story and motivation for deciding when the time is right. For Carla, a mother of five, ranging in ages from 14 to 26 years, she had many reasons. “I think having plastic surgery was always in the back of my mind, but being able to justify spending that money on myself was difficult.” Never one to really lack self-confidence, Carla says two life-changing moments made her change the way she felt about her body. “About 20 years ago I was diagnosed with cervical cancer. The way they performed the surgery left me with this big fold of skin on my stomach that never went away.” Years later, a lumpectomy was performed on one of her breasts, leaving her feeling lopsided. “Luckily the lesion was benign but because they took so much breast tissue, I could never get clothes to fit right.” A recommendation from a friend led her to Dr. Lori Saltz, a board certified plastic surgeon and Medical Director at La Jolla Cosmetic Surgery Centre.

With in depth knowledge of the medical profession from her career, the first thing Carla did was head to the Internet to research Dr. Saltz. “The most important thing to me was to find a qualified board certified Plastic Surgeon. Dr. Saltz’s qualifications and record were extremely impressive.” Carla met with Dr. Saltz and her team at LJCSC, to explore having a breast augmentation, breast lift and a tummy tuck. After carefully reviewing realistic expectations for each of these procedures, Carla left feeling confident that her personal needs would be met. With a supportive fiancé by her side, Carla felt ready to make some long awaited changes.

“The thing about La Jolla Cosmetic Surgery Centre is that everyone has a way of making it be so professional, while still warm and comfortable. “Carla praised the staff on their friendly care and says Dr. Saltz’s work speaks for itself. When Carla first asked a friend which plastic surgeon to see, she figured that the best referral was a satisfied patient. Now Carla has joined the ranks of the many happy patients Dr. Saltz has treated over the years. Carla added, “The best thing I can say is that I finally feel comfortable in my own skin.”

• Meet Carla's doctor, Board Certified San Diego Plastic Surgeon Dr. Saltz

Meet La Jolla Cosmetic Surgery Centre patient "Allyn"

When Allyn decided it was time to get in shape, she didn’t take it lightly. "I worked out all the time and was loving it but there were areas of my body that just didn’t change." That’s when she decided to get a helping hand through cosmetic surgery. As a forensic crime scene scientist, Allyn does meticulous research, and approached finding the right plastic surgeon in the same manner. "I had already seen two other plastic surgeons and Dr. Brahme was my third consultation... and the third time was the charm." Dr. Johan E. Brahme, a board certified plastic surgeon, was exactly who Allyn had been hoping to find. "He was so knowledgeable and confident, yet so personable. He validated what I was feeling and showed me how he could help me accomplish my goals." In addition to Dr. Brahme, Allyn recalls that the LJCSC staff was warm and welcoming. Since many team members have personally undergone procedures, they shared their experiences with Allyn, which she said made such a difference. Allyn had her first surgery, a tummy tuck, with Dr. Brahme in the summer of 2008 and was thrilled with the results.

“Dr. Brahme's surgical skills are like an artist. I not only get compliments on how flat my stomach is, but also how amazing the scar looks.” Allyn was so pleased that just one year later, she was ready to take on a few more areas that were bothering her. "I immediately knew that Dr. Brahme would be my surgeon again. Finding the right plastic surgeon is all about building a trusting relationship and I put all my trust in him."

Allyn’s second round of surgery for additional body contouring has left her feeling more self-confident and motivated to continue her exercise regimen to stay in tiptop shape. "I feel like I’m a walking billboard for Dr. Brahme and LJCSC. This is a place that really cares about their patients and treats them like family." Allyn refers friends to Dr. Brahme who are just as excited about their experience as she is. "I'm already planning my next cosmetic surgery adventure and know that Dr. Brahme will be right by my side.”

• Meet Allyn's doctor, Board Certified San Diego Plastic Surgeon Dr. Brahme

Meet La Jolla Cosmetic Surgery Centre patient "Sebastian"

"Having deep acne scars is like the elephant in the room that nobody wants to talk about." That is how Sebastian, a 22-year old college student, felt about the acne scars on his face. The scars, a result of years of uncontrollable acne, not only changed his physical looks, but more importantly, how he viewed himself from the inside. "I hated the way I looked and would avoid mirrors. I became so shy that it was hard for me to hold conversations." Sebastian felt there must be some way to improve his scars but had no idea how to deal with it. Like many people, he used the research tool he knew best—his computer. "I searched everything I could and kept coming across information about Dr. Fitzpatrick and his experience with lasers. I couldn’t believe this doctor that developed lasers to deal with problems like mine was right here in my own backyard."

Not knowing quite what to expect, he made his consultation with Dr. Richard Fitzpatrick, a board certified dermatologist and director of LJCSC's Dermatology Division. Sebastian recalls that Dr. Fitzpatrick was confident that he had the perfect laser to help him. Dr. Fitzpatrick recommended using the Fraxel re:pair, a fractionated CO2 laser, that safely rebuilds scar tissue to reduce scarring. "He told me that it could take multiple treatments because my scars were so deep but I was ready to give anything a try." Dr. Fitzpatrick and the dermatology team recall that first meeting with Sebastian and how very shy and withdrawn he was. After just one treatment, a new Sebastian began to emerge. "I couldn’t believe the difference just one treatment made in how I looked and felt."

Since that time, Sebastian has undergone two additional treatments. While the visual changes in his face are dramatic, the increase in his self-esteem is even more remarkable. Sebastian is active in his college community, and participates in State politics representing community colleges. “I feel like a new person and will forever be grateful to Dr. Fitzpatrick and his staff. Every time I go to the office, I feel like I am visiting family.” Sebastian always fantasized that one day he would look in the mirror and see the face he used to know—the face without acne scars. “Now I like to look in the mirror and see myself smiling back.”

• Meet Sebastian's doctor, Board Certified San Diego Dermatologist Dr. Fitzpatrick

Meet La Jolla Cosmetic Surgery Centre patient "Ronnie"

When Ronnie, a 58-year old middle school teacher decides to have a cosmetic procedure, she doesn’t take it lightly. In fact, she read and researched for over 20 years what type of procedure would be best to rejuvenate her face. She began to see a trend that pointed her in the direction of laser resurfacing. However, selecting which laser and more importantly, which physician would perform the procedure became her mission. "One day I was flipping through San Diego Magazine and there was an ad about La Jolla Cosmetic Surgery Centre’s Dermatology Division. As I read through the ad, it just felt right. There was such a sense of caring portrayed in the ad and I knew then I had found what I was searching for." Ronnie made an appointment and within days, she was meeting with LJCSC board certified dermatologist Dr. William Groff.

"The minute I walked into the Centre, I could feel that everything I had read was confirmed. All I knew was that I wanted tighter, fresher skin, but through Dr. Groff's education, I learned how the Fraxel re:pair would also help reverse years of sun damage." Ronnie was ready to go forward with the procedure, but found that when the day actually rolled around, she was apprehensive.

"I can remember coming in for my procedure so nervous until the team of dermatology nurses started to work with me. They are so knowledgeable about the procedure, it's as if they have all personally been through the experience. At the same time, I can remember feeling as if I were the only patient in the Centre that day." Ronnie went on to say that the care she received in preparing for her laser resurfacing made all the difference in the world.

It's been over a year since Dr. Groff used the Fraxel re:pair in combination with several other lasers to rejuvenate Ronnie's skin. "I love the results so much and continue to get compliments about how rested and refreshed my face looks. I know the next time I'm ready for any cosmetic procedure, I'll be coming back to LJCSC."

• Meet Ronnie's doctor, Board Certified San Diego Dermatologist Dr. Groff

Meet La Jolla Cosmetic Surgery Centre patient "Jordan"

Jordan, 31 years old, was born and raised in San Diego. She is happily married with 3 children.  She made the decision to have plastic surgery because she had a lot of excess skin after her last daughter from breastfeeding.

In Jordan's spare time, she enjoys going to the river and spending time with her friends and family.

"I spend my summers at the river. I am more confident- now I don't have to spend months looking for a bikini top to make me look decent."

"Dr. Brahme was so warm and welcoming. I wanted a conservative doctor who listened to me and truly cared about my results. I am so thrilled with my results. Dr. Brahme and his staff made this a wonderful memorable experience. Thank you so much!"

• Meet Jordan's doctor, Board Certified San Diego Plastic Surgeon Dr. Brahme

Meet La Jolla Cosmetic Surgery Centre patient "Kathryn"

Kathryn, 18 years old, has lived in San Diego most of her life. She enjoys being out in the sun, singing, dancing, and shopping. She chose to have a breast augmentation to even out her body proportions and to make her breasts more symmetrical.

"I have numerous friends who have had surgery at LJCSC and I loved their results and their comments regarding their experience they had at LJCSC. It has made me feel more comfortable in and out of clothes, my self esteem has gone up and has given me the confidence most teens lack now a days in our society to love my body."

Meet La Jolla Cosmetic Surgery Centre patient "Shannon"

Shannon, 27 years old, currently resides in Newport Beach. She spends her free time socializing or working out. Shannon had several friends who had their surgery at LJCSC, so she felt confident in her choice.

"Dr. Brahme is amazing and so is the whole staff. I love it. Everything turned out great and I want more!"

• Meet Shannon's doctor, Board Certified San Diego Plastic Surgeon Dr. Brahme

Meet La Jolla Cosmetic Surgery Centre patient "Lauren"

Lauren, 66 years old, lived in Los Angeles for several years of her adult life. She owned her very own hair salon for over 25 years and then moved to San Diego to retire and be near her two children. She enjoys watching movies, reading, and going to the beach--especially to catch the sunsets. Lauren was referred to LJCSC by a friend when she decided to have plastic surgery.

"My neck and was always an eye sore for me. I always felt younger than my age."

When asked how her surgery has improved her life, Lauren replied, "tremendously."

Meet La Jolla Cosmetic Surgery Centre patient "Denise"

Denise, 53 years old, is originally from Michigan and has been in San Diego now for 20 years. She made the decision to have plastic surgery because she did not feel her external look matched how she felt on the inside.

"I feel better about how I look, youthful but yet natural."

When asked why she chose LJCSC she commented, "I love how the whole office treated me."

Her advice to anyone considering facial rejuvenation would be, "Give it time--it took me awhile to adjust. Now it's been 6 months and I love it."

Read More Testimonials from Happy Plastic Surgery Patients

• Patients of Dr. Saltz
• Patients of Dr. Brahme
• Patients of Dr. Grzeskiewicz

Read More Testimonials from Happy Cosmetic Dermatology Patients

• Patients of Dr. Fitzpatrick
• Patients of Dr. Groff

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