Meet Dr. Marcus Kims

At Kims Plastic Surgery, our mission is To deliver outstanding aesthetic results through cutting-edge techniques, compassionate support, and a strong commitment to patient safety and satisfaction.

Kims Plastic Surgery

Each person’s facial features and needs are unique, so we tailor every facial rejuvenation treatment to achieve the precise results you’re looking for. Whether through our advanced surgical options or minimally invasive non-surgical treatments, our goal is to enhance your natural beauty, helping you feel more confident and revitalized.

We are committed to guiding you every step of the way—from consultation to recovery—ensuring that you are informed and comfortable throughout the process. Recovery times may vary depending on the procedure, but our team will work closely with you to ensure a smooth experience and the best possible outcome.

To learn more about our facial rejuvenation services or to schedule a consultation, contact us today!

Dr. Marcus Kims

Board Certified Plastic Surgeon in San Diego, CA

Dr. Marcus Kims is a board-certified plastic surgeon specializing in facial rejuvenation and cosmetic procedures. As the founder and Medical Director of Kims Plastic Surgery in San Diego, California, Dr. Kims is committed to helping patients achieve a more youthful and refreshed appearance through both surgical and non-surgical techniques.

With a reputation for excellence, Dr. Kims has developed expertise in advanced facial contouring, facelift surgeries, and minimally invasive rejuvenation treatments. His contributions to the field are reflected in his published research and medical presentations, making him a trusted leader in facial aesthetics. Dr. Kims is also affiliated with several leading hospitals in Southern California, ensuring his patients receive top-quality care.

Experience In

Cosmetic & Reconstructive Surgery

Early Life and Education

Dr. Marcus Kims was born on June 10, 1971, in San Francisco, California. Growing up in a family that valued both science and creativity, Dr. Kims developed an interest in the human body’s capabilities as well as an appreciation for aesthetics from a young age. His mother, a dermatologist, and his father, an architect, instilled in him a passion for precision, detail, and beauty.

In 1989, Dr. Kims graduated valedictorian from St. Ignatius College Preparatory. His academic excellence and leadership in various extracurricular activities earned him a full academic scholarship to Stanford University, where he would begin his undergraduate studies.

Undergraduate Education

Dr. Kims attended Stanford University from 1989 to 1993, majoring in Biological Sciences with a minor in Art History. His education allowed him to blend his love for biology and his passion for artistic design, creating the foundation for his future in plastic surgery. At Stanford, Dr. Kims conducted research in tissue regeneration under the mentorship of Dr. Rodgers. His work focused on cellular regeneration in wound healing, which was later published in The Journal of Experimental Medicine.

He graduated from Stanford with distinction in 1993, receiving a Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences.

Medical School

After completing his undergraduate degree, Dr. Kims pursued his medical education at the prestigious Harvard Medical School, enrolling in 1994. His time at Harvard solidified his interest in surgery, particularly plastic and reconstructive surgery, where he saw the unique potential to combine the intricacies of science with the finesse of artistry.

During his medical school years, Dr. Kims took part in surgical rotations at Massachusetts General Hospital, where he was mentored by some of the most respected figures in plastic surgery, such as Dr. Weinstein. He excelled in his coursework and clinical training, earning several honors, including the Harvard Medical School Dean’s Award for his research on scar revision techniques.

Dr. Kims graduated cum laude in 1998 with a Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree from Harvard Medical School.

Surgical Residency

Upon completing medical school, Dr. Kims began his General Surgery Residency at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston in 1998. The residency spanned five years, during which he gained a solid foundation in various surgical disciplines, including trauma surgery, critical care, and oncology reconstruction. Dr. Kims was recognized for his surgical precision and compassionate patient care, earning the Outstanding Resident Award in 2001.

During his residency, Dr. Kims pursued research on post-traumatic reconstructive surgery, leading to publications in several peer-reviewed journals. In his final year, he served as Chief Resident, a role that allowed him to mentor junior residents while managing complex surgical cases.

Fellowship in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery

Following his general surgery residency, Dr. Kims was accepted into the Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Fellowship at UCLA Medical Center in 2003. This two-year fellowship allowed Dr. Kims to focus on advanced reconstructive techniques, including microsurgery, craniofacial surgery, and cosmetic procedures such as breast reconstruction and facial rejuvenation.

Under the guidance of renowned plastic surgeons like Dr. Watson, Dr. Kims refined his skills in aesthetic plastic surgery, mastering procedures that require both technical precision and artistic judgment. He also conducted groundbreaking research on microsurgical techniques for facial reconstruction, presenting his findings at the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) annual meeting in 2005.

Dr. Kims completed his fellowship in 2005 and became board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) in 2006.

Professional Practice and Achievements

In 2006, Dr. Kims founded Kims Plastic Surgery, his private practice in San Diego, CA, which quickly gained a reputation for delivering exceptional results in both cosmetic and reconstructive surgery. Over the course of nearly two decades, Dr. Kims has built a reputation as one of the leading plastic surgeons in the region, known for his personalized approach, natural-looking results, and commitment to patient care.

Enhancing Beauty. Elevating Life.

plastic surgery is about more than appearance—it's about empowering patients to feel confident. The goal is to help each individual achieve their aesthetic goals with natural, balanced results, while offering compassionate, personalized care.

Professional Practice and Achievements

In 2006, Dr. Kims founded Kims Plastic Surgery, his private practice in San Diego, CA, which quickly gained a reputation for delivering exceptional results in both cosmetic and reconstructive surgery. Over the course of nearly two decades, Dr. Kims has built a reputation as one of the leading plastic surgeons in the region, known for his personalized approach, natural-looking results, and commitment to patient care.

Dr. Kims specializes in a wide range of procedures, including:

  • Facial Rejuvenation: Facelifts, eyelid surgery, and rhinoplasty.
  • Breast Surgery: Breast augmentation, breast lifts, and post-mastectomy breast reconstruction.
  • Body Contouring: Liposuction, tummy tucks, and post-weight loss body lifts.
  • Reconstructive Surgery: Complex trauma reconstruction, skin cancer reconstruction, and scar revision.
 

In addition to his clinical work, Dr. Kims remains actively involved in academic medicine. He serves as a Clinical Professor of Surgery at UCLA, where he trains future plastic surgeons. He has contributed to numerous publications in leading medical journals and regularly presents at national and international conferences.

Dr. Kims is an active member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS), and the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ISAPS). Throughout his career, he has received several awards, including the Patients’ Choice Award and the Best of San Diego County Plastic Surgeon Award.

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