Gilbert W. Lee MD, FACS | Changes Plastic Surgery

Gilbert W. Lee MD, FACS

Discover excellence in aesthetic plastic surgery with Dr. Gilbert Lee, the distinguished plastic surgeon voted "Top Plastic Surgeon" by the San Diego County Medical Society for an impressive 15 consecutive years.

Patients choose Dr. Lee for his unmatched reputation, extensive expertise, and consistent delivery of unrivaled results. With over 29 years of experience, Dr. Lee is dedicated to changing lives by enhancing both inner and outer beauty.

With over 20 years of experience, a medical degree from the University of California, San Diego (UCSD), and surgical training at Washington University, the birthplace of plastic surgery, Dr. Lee is fulfilling his passion for helping men and women reach their full potential.

Experience Transformation with Dr. Gilbert Lee

As one of San Diego's top plastic surgeons, Dr. Lee is committed to helping patients look and feel refreshed, youthful, and naturally beautiful. His exceptional abilities and commitment to staying at the forefront of innovative techniques position him as a leading figure in the field.

Commitment to Excellence and Innovation

Dr. Lee's commitment to patient satisfaction and professional education has elevated him to the pinnacle of plastic surgery in San Diego. A pioneer in scarless surgery, Dr. Lee introduced the groundbreaking EmbraceRF Procedure, showcasing his forward-thinking approach to traditional surgeries. His Changes Rapid Lift, a deep plane facelift, is performed in the office under local anesthesia, providing enhanced comfort, reduced downtime, and quicker recovery. In 2016, Dr. Lee achieved a significant milestone by pioneering Scarless Surgery using BodyTite and FaceTite radiofrequency-assisted lipolysis (RFAL).

This innovative approach allows Dr. Lee to perform procedures such as face and neck lifts, arm lifts, tummy tucks, or thigh lifts without leaving visible scars.

Dr. Lee regularly educates physicians on new injection techniques and has been featured on The Doctors television show, where he demonstrated Bellafill®, a permanent filler. He is also a recognized Liquid Face Lift Association (LFLA) expert, using the patient’s own fat to create extraordinary results with the Changes Liquid Facelift.

A Leader in Non-Surgical and Laser Techniques

Beyond surgical expertise, Dr. Lee leads in non-surgical and laser techniques. Changes Plastic Surgery & Spa offers advanced treatments like Fraxel and Lumenis Total FX, Morpheus 8, ICON, and Excel V+ lasers to address various skin conditions, providing comprehensive solutions for sun damage and aging.

As the plastic surgery industry rapidly evolves, Dr. Lee and the whole Changes team stay at the forefront, ensuring excellent patient care while embracing the best of future possibilities.

Patients consistently praise Dr. Lee's dedication to his craft, with a patient satisfaction rating of nearly 94%, according to Real Patient Ratings (RPR). Patients appreciate Dr...

Anonymous

Dr. Gilbert Lee represents the pinnacle of plastic surgery in San Diego. His commitment to innovation, patient satisfaction, and industry leadership makes him a standout choice ...

Anonymous
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Honors & Awards

Dr. Lee's exceptional contributions have garnered numerous accolades, establishing him as one of the best plastic surgeons in San Diego. Some of his notable awards include:

  • Top Doctor in Plastic Surgery (San Diego County Medical Society) for 15 consecutive years.
  • Best of North Coast Readers Poll, Best Cosmetic Surgery.
  • Castle Connolly Regional Top Doctor
  • Real Self Top Contributor and Top Doctor
  • San Diego A-List Award for Best Medical Spa
  • Teacher of the Year Award UCSD Plastic Surgery Department

Schedule Your Consultation Today

See Dr. Gilbert Lee to discover your options for transforming your body and confidence with artistry and precision. Contact us online today to schedule a consultation and discover the best version of yourself. 

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Gilbert W. Lee, MD Curriculum Vitae

Academic Title/Office Held

  • Assistant Clinical Professor of Plastic and Reconstructive
    Surgery, non-salaried, U.C San Diego,
  • President, San Diego Plastic Surgery Society
    2008
  • Vice President, San Diego Plastic Surgery Society
    2007
  • Treasurer/Secretary San Diego Plastic Surgery Society
    2006
  • Chief of Plastic Surgery, Sharp Memorial Hospital, San Diego, CA

Board Certification

  • Diplomate, American Board of Plastic Surgery, November 1996
  • Diplomate, American Board of Surgery, June 2, 1992, #37336
  • Certificate of Added Qualification in Surgery of the Hand, AmericanBoard of Surgery, August 19, 1996, #212
  • Diplomate, National Board of Medical Examiners, July 1, 1987, #321560

Academic Background

Washington University Medical Center, St. Louis, MO

  • Plastic Surgery Residency
    July 1, 1991, to June 30, 1993
    Training Director: Dr. Paul M. Weeks
  • Plastic Surgery Administrative Chief Resident
    July 1, 1992, to June 30, 1993
  • Fellowship in Hand, Microvascular, and Peripheral Nerve Surgery:
    July 1, 1993, to June 30, 1994
  • Traveling Fellowship to UCLA and Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taiwan

​​​​​​​University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, NY

  • General Surgery Chief Resident
    July 1, 1990, to June 30, 1991
  • General Surgery Residency Training Director: Dr. Seymour I. Schwartz
    July 1, 1986, to June 30, 1991

​​​​​​​University of California, San Diego School of Medicine

  • Degree: Doctor of Medicine, June 1986. Graduated with Highest Honors.
  • Medical School
    September 1982 to June 1986
  • Traveling Clerkships at University of London, University of Edinburgh, UCSF, Stanford University

​​​​​​​University of California, Davis

  • Degree: Bachelor of Arts in Biochemistry
    June 1982
  • U.C. Davis Regents Scholarship (Highest scholarship awarded by the University)
  • Graduated with Highest Honors
  • Dean’s Honor Roll
  • Member of PHI KAPPA PHI Honor Society
  • Awarded American Heart Association Cardiovascular Research Fellowship
  • Member U.C.D. Men’s’ Volleyball Team

Certification/Membership

  • Member, American Society of Plastic Surgeons
  • Fellow of the American College of Surgeons
  • Member, American Medical Association
  • Member, California Medical Association
  • Member, California Society of Plastic Surgeons
  • Member, San Diego County Medical Association
  • Member, San Diego Plastic Surgery Society
  • Ultrasound Assisted Liposuction Certified, April 19, 1997
  • Endoscopic Plastic Surgery Certified, 1996
  • LASER Certification: CO² Laser, Erbium, Ruby Hair Removal Laser, KTP Laser, Nd: Yag
    Laser, Fraxel, FX CO2.
  • California State Medical License #G63907

Hospital Affiliations

  • Sharp Memorial Hospital, San Diego, CA
  • Sharp Mary Birch Hospital, San Diego, CA
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