Dr. David W. Kim
FACIAL PLASTIC SURGEON
San Francisco, CaliforniaOffice Location
415.773.0800
“My consultations are very          
            interactive and customized.”
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NewBeauty Expert since:

Services Offered

  • Rhinoplasty
  • Revision Rhinoplasty
  • Browlift
  • Upper and Lower Blepharoplasty
  • Aesthetic Injectables
  • Laser Resurfacing
  • IPL™ (Intense Pulsed Light)
  • Photofacial
  • Facelift / Necklift

Expert Insight


Refined Rhinoplasties

Specializing in facial, head and neck surgery, Dr. Kim has found a niche for himself in rhinoplasty surgery, due to the intricacies involved and meticulous command of surgical skills required. Routinely called upon for complex revision cases, Dr. Kim who performs everything from cosmetic and secondary rhinoplasties to reconstructive and functional procedures has honed his approach to ensure optimal results and help patients set appropriate expectations. We use digital imaging as a tool to promote discussion and preview expected results, says Dr. Kim, who has appeared on Discovery Health and local television shows. Personally calling patients the night of surgery, Dr. Kim employs a high-tech, high-touch approach. We never discharge patients from our practice or push a procedure. Internationally known for his rhinoplasty surgeries, Dr. Kim was the course director of the Inaugural Dubai Rhinoplasty Symposium in the United Arab Emirates, December 2009.

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A Knack For Noses

This young woman underwent rhinoplasty by Dr. Kim and couldn’t be more pleased with her new nose. “She had severe nasal obstruction and a desire to improve the appearance of her nose, so that’s what we did,” says Dr. Kim of his no-frills approach to surgery and the results he helped this 21-year-old attain. 

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Philosophy

Having authored over 50 scientific papers, articles and chapters in medical literature, Dr. David W. Kim, the former Chief of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery at the University of California, San Francisco, enjoys challenging the classical views of beauty. “Sure there are textbooks that provide guidelines about ideal measurements, distances and angles, but I’ve never been one to adopt a set belief system about beauty—except for the fact that there is no ‘cookie cutter’ formula when it comes to the human form.”
 

Expert Insight

Refined Rhinoplasties

Specializing in facial, head and neck surgery, Dr. Kim has found a niche for himself in rhinoplasty surgery, due to the intricacies involved and meticulous command of surgical skills required. Routinely called upon for complex revision cases, Dr. Kim who performs everything from cosmetic and secondary rhinoplasties to reconstructive and functional procedures has honed his approach to ensure optimal results and help patients set appropriate expectations. We use digital imaging as a tool to promote discussion and preview expected results, says Dr. Kim, who has appeared on Discovery Health and local television shows. Personally calling patients the night of surgery, Dr. Kim employs a high-tech, high-touch approach. We never discharge patients from our practice or push a procedure. Internationally known for his rhinoplasty surgeries, Dr. Kim was the course director of the Inaugural Dubai Rhinoplasty Symposium in the United Arab Emirates, December 2009.

A Knack For Noses

This young woman underwent rhinoplasty by Dr. Kim and couldn’t be more pleased with her new nose. “She had severe nasal obstruction and a desire to improve the appearance of her nose, so that’s what we did,” says Dr. Kim of his no-frills approach to surgery and the results he helped this 21-year-old attain. 

Philosophy

Having authored over 50 scientific papers, articles and chapters in medical literature, Dr. David W. Kim, the former Chief of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery at the University of California, San Francisco, enjoys challenging the classical views of beauty. “Sure there are textbooks that provide guidelines about ideal measurements, distances and angles, but I’ve never been one to adopt a set belief system about beauty—except for the fact that there is no ‘cookie cutter’ formula when it comes to the human form.”
 

About my practice:

How has your teaching and lecturing experience enhanced your skills as a doctor?

After teaching medical students and residents for six years, I honed my communication and motivational skills, which translate well into educating patients. 

Why are consultations such an important part of the patient experience?

This is when I make that critical connection with each patient—when I am able to discover the results that can fulfill my patients’ dreams.

How do you define a successful result?

When an aesthetic improvement is harmonious with each patient’s features, without looking artificial or overdone, I consider it a success.

About me:

What is your favorite part of your job?

The unveiling after a rhinoplasty—when I take the cast off and see a patient cry out of happiness—is the most fantastic feeling.

What framed photos are on your desk?

I have a few photos on my desk, including a picture of my 7-year-old twins and 10-year-old son, and a photo of my wife.

Do you perform any pro-bono work?

I work with victims of domestic violence.

Education & Credentials

EDUCATION:

Degree:

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

Residency:

  • University of California, San Diego , San Diego, California

Fellowship:

  • Fellowship, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois

BOARD-CERTIFICATION:

  • American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
  • American Board of Otolaryngology/Head and Neck Surgery

AFFILIATIONS:

  • Fellow, American Academy of Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery
  • Fellow, American College of Surgeons

Q&A

Narrow by treatment:

Show all

    • Browlift
    • Facelift
    • Injectables And Fillers
    • Nose Job
face_lift_main

FACELIFT

Can you achieve the results of a facelift, the jowl/neck lift, by injection or other means? Are there alternatives to a facelift that will get you facelift results? Without surgery?

There are no nonsurgical procedures which can duplicate the effects of a facelift. The facelift surgery allows one to elevate and reposition sagging areas of the face and neck upward into a more youthful position. This type of effect requires surgery. There are, however, a variety of nonsurgical treatments which can improve the appearance of the face in ways similar to a facelift, though typically in less magnitude. One example is facial volumization with soft tissue fillers. Because the aging process leads to deflation of the face (in addition to sagging), replacement of lost volume with fillers can rejuvenate the face without surgery. Another option is laser skin resurfacing. This procedure allows for dramatic skin surface rejuvenation with wrinkle reduction, textural improvement, elimination of discoloration and better tone. These nonsurgical procedures may be used in conjunction with a facelift to enhance results. But, they may also be used a stand-alone procedures to provide rejuvenating effects without surgery.

Is there preventive anti-aging work I can have done before I would need a facelift?

There are numerous topical skin-care regimens which can reduce surface aging signs. Anti-aging treatments such as Retin-A or topical antioxidants can improve the condition of the skin prior to surgery. Sun protection is also a critical part of prevention to slow down the aging process.

browlift

BROWLIFT

Can Botox or Dysport help shape my brows?

Yes absolutely! Botox acts by relaxing the muscles into which it is applied. Since the eyebrows are influenced by the pull of the muscles above and below them, strategic placement of Botox can serve to improve eyebrow position or shape. Most commonly, Botox is placed just below the tail of the eyebrows [off label] in order to relax the muscles which pull the end of the eyebrows downward. The effect of the treatment is an elevation of the tail of the eyebrow, a result which rejuvenates and opens the area around the outer corners of the eye.

nose_job

NOSE JOB

How long is the recovery from rhinoplasty?

 

I advise patients to take about one week off from work or school and three weeks of no exercise. Swelling will persist for several months and may fluctuate depending on activity or diet. I also advise patients to avoid activities which risk trauma to the nose for about three months.


I had a nose job and I don’t like the result, can I get another rhinoplasty procedure?

Unfortunately, rhinoplasty does not always go perfectly the first time around. The good news is that almost every problem resulting from rhinoplasty can be corrected with a revision procedure. About 1/3 of my rhinoplasty practice is revision of previous rhinoplasty surgeries. It is advisable to seek treatment from a surgeon who performs a high volume of revision rhinoplasty as these procedures tend to be more complicated than primary surgery.

I’m having a hard time breathing through my nose, do I need a nose job?

In many cases, nasal breathing problems may be successfully treated with septoplasty and/or turbinate reduction.  These procedures are performed completely inside of the nasal passages and generally do not change the external appearance of the nose. In many cases, these procedures may be performed in conjunction with a cosmetic rhinoplasty. There are some type of nasal breathing problems in which a functional rhinoplasty is needed to adequately improve airflow. In these cases, there is typically a need to strengthen the external structures of the nose in order to correct the problem. One of the more common examples of this is when the nasal side walls collapse with inspiration through the nose, a condition known as nasal valve collapse.

If I am getting a nose job, do I have to consider augmenting or reducing my chin as well for balance?

The nose and chin have an important cosmetic relationship in the face, particularly with regard to the profile appearance. A small chin can make a nose look larger and vice-versa. The most common scenario in which chin work is done in the same setting as rhinoplasty is when one has a large nose and a small chin. In this type of case, a reduction rhinoplasty and a chin augmentation will be performed to provide better balance to the face.

Injectables & Fillers

INJECTABLES AND FILLERS

Can you achieve the results of a facelift, the jowl/neck lift, by injection or other means? Are there alternatives to a facelift that will get you facelift results? Without surgery?

There are no nonsurgical procedures which can duplicate the effects of a facelift. The facelift surgery allows one to elevate and reposition sagging areas of the face and neck upward into a more youthful position. This type of effect requires surgery. There are, however, a variety of nonsurgical treatments which can improve the appearance of the face in ways similar to a facelift, though typically in less magnitude. One example is facial volumization with soft tissue fillers. Because the aging process leads to deflation of the face (in addition to sagging), replacement of lost volume with fillers can rejuvenate the face without surgery. Another option is laser skin resurfacing. This procedure allows for dramatic skin surface rejuvenation with wrinkle reduction, textural improvement, elimination of discoloration and better tone. These nonsurgical procedures may be used in conjunction with a facelift to enhance results. But, they may also be used a stand-alone procedures to provide rejuvenating effects without surgery.

Can Botox or Dysport help shape my brows?

Yes absolutely! Botox acts by relaxing the muscles into which it is applied. Since the eyebrows are influenced by the pull of the muscles above and below them, strategic placement of Botox can serve to improve eyebrow position or shape. Most commonly, Botox is placed just below the tail of the eyebrows [off label] in order to relax the muscles which pull the end of the eyebrows downward. The effect of the treatment is an elevation of the tail of the eyebrow, a result which rejuvenates and opens the area around the outer corners of the eye.

Which injectable fillers are best for which areas of the face?

I prefer HA (hyaluronic acid) products, such as Juvederm or Restylane for the under eyes and lips. For cheeks and smile lines I use both HA products as well as Radiesse, a hydroxy-appetite product. I also find that Sculptra is a useful product option for regional facial volumizing. It is hard to generalize about best choices based solely on anatomical area as the selection depends on individual anatomy as well as the patient’s personal goals and preferences.

Before & After

Narrow by treatment:

Show All

    • Eyelift
    • Facelift
    • Necklift
    • Nose Job

  • Eyelift

    Before

    dr-david-kim-blepharoplasty-facelift-necklift-otoplasty-b

    After

    dr-david-kim-blepharoplasty-facelift-necklift-otoplasty-b
    Lower Blepharoplasty, Upper Blepharoplasty
    Male, Age: 64-74

  • Eyelift

    Before

    dr-david-kim-facelift-b

    After

    dr-david-kim-facelift-b
    Eyelift
    Male, Age: 64-74

  • Facelift

    Before

    dr-david-kim-blepharoplasty-facelift-necklift-otoplasty-b

    After

    dr-david-kim-blepharoplasty-facelift-necklift-otoplasty-b
    Facelift
    Male, Age: 64-74

  • Facelift

    Before

    dr-david-kim-facelift-necklift-b

    After

    dr-david-kim-facelift-necklift-b
    Facelift
    Female, Age: 45-54

  • Facelift

    Before

    dr-david-kim-facelift-b

    After

    dr-david-kim-facelift-b
    Facelift
    Male, Age: 64-74

  • Necklift

    Before

    dr-david-kim-blepharoplasty-facelift-necklift-otoplasty-b

    After

    dr-david-kim-blepharoplasty-facelift-necklift-otoplasty-b
    Necklift
    Male, Age: 64-74

  • Necklift

    Before

    dr-david-kim-facelift-necklift-b

    After

    dr-david-kim-facelift-necklift-b
    Necklift
    Female, Age: 45-54

  • Necklift

    Before

    dr-david-kim-facelift-b

    After

    dr-david-kim-facelift-b
    Necklift
    Male, Age: 64-74

  • Nose Job

    Before

    dr-david-kim-rhinoplasty-b

    After

    dr-david-kim-rhinoplasty-b
    Nose Job
    Female, Age: 18-24
Next

Videos

Dr. David Kim - Artificial Implants In Rhinoplasty
Dr. David W. Kim
Dr. David W. Kim from San Francisco describes how artificial implants are used in Rhinoplasty. Dr. Kim describes why hey doesn't like using implants in the nose due to the risk. Not everyone needs implants during rhinoplasty and Dr. Kim explains why or why not. http://dwkimmd.com 
Dr. David Kim - Chin Augmentation In 15 Minutes
Dr. David W. Kim
Dr. David Kim describes the process of a non-surgical chin augmentation that takes 15 minutes in office. http://dwkimmd.com 
Dr. David Kim - Dr. David W. Kim, San Francisco Facial Plastic Surgeon, On Discovery Channel
Dr. David W. Kim
San Francisco Facial Plastic Surgeon, Dr. David W. Kim on Discovery Channel repaired a disfiguring hole in the nose of a young woman after skin cancer removal. Visit www.dwkimmd.com to learn more about Dr. Kim's practice.
Dr. David Kim - Rhinoplasty & Digital Morphing
Dr. David W. Kim
Digital morphing is a computer generated technology that allows Doctors to communicate to patients what is possible with plastic surgery. Dr. Kim uses Barbra Streisand as an example. Watch how the rotation of Barbra's nose is changed before your eyes. A before after rhinoplasty comparison is also immediately viewable. Dr. Kim also uses Owen Wilson and his nose as an example by showing how the nose can be aligned and how the tip can be aligned as well.
Dr. David Kim - Rhinoplasty - The Nasoseptal L Strut
Dr. David W. Kim
The nasoseptal L Strut is the foundation of aesthetic and functional rhinoplasty. http://dwkimmd.com The septum serves as the foundation of the nose and has many implications in rhinoplasty. The septum is at the top of the architectrual hierarchy of the nose. Where the septum goes, so goes the nose. Dr. Kim demonstrates with photos the role of the septum inside the nose.
Dr. David Kim - Rhinoplasty - The Structural Approach To Rhinoplasty - Part 1
Dr. David W. Kim
This is part 1 on the the structural approach to rhinoplasty. Dr. Kim uses the transformation of Michael Jackson as an example. http://dwkimmd.com
Dr. David Kim - Rhinoplasty - The Structural Approach To Rhinoplasty - Part 2
Dr. David W. Kim
Dr. Kim discusses the techniques in structural rhinoplasty that are designed to avoid difficulties and complications during rhinoplasty surgery. http://dwkimmd.com
Dr. David Kim - Rhinoplasty - The Structural Approach To Rhinoplasty - Part 3
Dr. David W. Kim
http://dwkimmd.com Dr. Kim discusses the specific anatomy of the nose. The structural elements of the nose include the nasal septum, nasal bones, upper lateral cartilages and the lower lateral cartilages.
Dr. David Kim - Rhinoplasty - The Structural Approach To Rhinoplasty - Part 4
Dr. David W. Kim
Important points in rhinoplasty. http://dwkimmd.com Learn how the nasal tip underscores the importance of the structural philosophy in rhinoplasty. The attachment of the tip to the bottom edge of the septum is a very important consideration. Structural rhinoplasty distinguishes itself from non-structural rhinoplasty in that some support of the tip is recreated. By restructuring the tip loss of tip position and shape is prevented. The structural philosophy is summed up by three basic principals:
1 - Keep things strong
2 - Rebuild things you weaken
3 - Proportion of the nose is more important than the size
Dr. David Kim - Rhinoplasty - The Structural Approach To Rhinoplasty - Part 5
Dr. David W. Kim
Thin skin vs. thick skin in rhinoplasty. http://dwkimmd.com The difference of thick skin and thin skin in rhinoplasty is very important to understand. With thick skin it is better to expand the nose and create a contour that stretches the skin envelope so that you can see the changes. With thin skin there is more flexibility in making a reduction but any changes will be revealed through thin skin. Thin skin contracts over time. There is a continued progression of skin changes after surgery. 

The nasal septum serves as a structural wall that holds up the nose. 

The L strut must be strong by the end of the surgery. Structural rhinoplasty aims to prevent L strut problems by keepint the L strut strong.
Dr. David Kim - Rhinoplasty - The Structural Approach To Rhinoplasty - Part 6
Dr. David W. Kim
The middle vault is the part of the bridge that resides in the central portion of the nose, it often needs to be altered in order to make the area straighter or reduce a hump on the nose. The middle vault is a very important area in regards to structural rhinoplasty. Most commonly problems happen when removing a hump on the nose, which is often an excess of cartilage. If nothing is done except to let the body heal on its own an inverted v often occurs if the central portion of the nose isn't supported. Sometimes the hump isn't removed and a better option is to mask the hump by placing cartilage above it. Dr. Kim illustrates the video with actual before and after photos of patients.

Nasal tip position - weakening the nasal tip support can lead to an unpredictable tip position.
Dr. David Kim - Rhinoplasty - The Structural Approach To Rhinoplasty - Part 7
Dr. David W. Kim
What do predictable rhinoplasty results rely on? http://dwkimmd.com Nasal tip base stabilization is a technique in structural rhinoplasty where the tripod, instead of relying on scar contraction to find its final position it relies on graphing. For example cartilage would be placed between the inner limbs of the tripod, the tripod released from its connection to the septum and resutured onto a midline anchor point to set the tip to the correct position. This mobilization and fixation creates a much more predictable outcome.

Nasal tip sculpting is another aspect of tip surgery. Traditional techniques would rely on destructive methods of creating that form. The tip should remain strong and well balanced with a triangular face and appropriate proportions. Don't always think of reductive surgery.
Dr. David Kim - The Aging Face Explained
Dr. David W. Kim
Dr. David Kim of San Francisco walks you through a three part video series where he shows you how the human face gets older and what we can do about it. Learn how to make a face look more youthful, what makes a face look old and the latest technology that can be used in treating an aging face. Dr. Kim uses Richard Gere, Joan Collins and Paul Newman as examples

Testimonials

Revision Rhinoplasty, Chin Implant and Liposuction
Patient Testimonial
After seeing two doctors, I was referred to Dr. Kim for a lump on my nose and difficult breathing. Dr. Kim was concerned about the lump on my nose and thought it might be cancer. Once he started surgery, Dr. Kim discovered the implant was infected and there was great difficulty on the revision of my nose. I choose the have a chin and neck liposuction and chin implant at the same time as the nose revision. I am a 62 year old grandmother, but I felt I looked older and I think the chin surgery has improved my appearance greatly and I could not be happier. My nose is very straight and my breathing has improved so much. I will continue to be blessed with the results."
Reconstructive Surgery
Patient Testimonial
"Dr. David Kim is not only an amazing plastic surgeon but a very personable and professional doctor. He saw me after a portion of my nose had been removed by a dermatologist due to basal cell carcinoma and seeing that I was scared made me feel very calm and comfortable about the procedure. When I called him to ask him more questions about the surgery he immediately called me back. You can ’t even tell I had reconstructive surgery, he is that good. I have come back to have other procedures done as my experience was so great. I have recommend Dr. Kim and staff to all of my friends!"
Reconstructive Surgery
Patient Testimonial
"My need for Dr. Kim’s services came unexpectedly. At a stressful time, his professionalism and skills were and still are greatly appreciated. I need only look in the mirror each morning to be reminded of his skill. At each office visit I am again reminded of his care and his staff’s professionals."
Nose Surgery
Patient Testimonial
"Dr. Kim and his nurse made the whole process so comfortable. Dr. Kim kept his word on making the surgery look 'natural.' I am so happy with the results and the best part; no one knows I did anything! He is so sweet and caring, I would trust him doing any kind of plastic surgery for me and I will surely recommend him! His nurse is so wonderful answering all of my silly questions without making me feel like a pest! They are absolutely wonderful to work with!"
Functional Rhinoplasty
Patient Testimonial
"Dr. Kim and Jenna have been wonderful to work with. They are always friendly, willing to answer questions and patiently provided clear thorough answers. I felt a sense of trust and comfort with Dr. Kim which was crucial to the treatment. He was very considerate of my concerns and wishes and I am very happy with the outcome. I have never breathed better in my life and therefore feel wonderful!"
Chin Implant
Patient Testimonial
"It has been over 3 months since my surgery. I am quite happy with the change in my profile. Not one person appears to have noticed the surgery, which is exactly what I wanted. One girlfriend who I didn’t tell about my implant told me that I look more 'fresh' somehow. In my opinion, my neck appears elongated, perhaps because I have more chin definition in my profile. Also, I am pleased that my dimples are now back to being dimples again."
Rhinoplasty
Patient Testimonial
"I thank you for doing such a great job – to his nurse and staff for organizing everything and to Dr. Kim for giving me exactly what I was looking for … a subtle change that makes a big difference. I look like me, and thank goodness you have a fantastic sense of symmetry!"
Reconstructive Surgery
Patient Testimonial
"I would recommend Dr. David Kim and his staff very highly. He is very articulate and has a very professional manner. I have and had every confidence in his skill and caring for me during and after surgery. Thank you again Dr. Kim and staff – you’re great!"
Nose Surgery and Face Lift
Patient Testimonial
"Dr. Kim is an angel. I am eternally grateful to him for his skill and compassion. When we first met, he listened carefully to my wishes and made me feel comfortable even though I was nervous. He and his staff have been attentive and considerate of my needs throughout the entire process. And of course, I am thrilled about the fantastic results after my face lift and rhinoplasty. I got exactly what I had wished for!"
Reconstructive Surgery
Patient Testimonial
"Dr. Kim was the only doctor I consulted who was willing to take on my 'difficult case.' He is a superb doctor and I always felt complete confidence in his skill and aesthetic eye. I am so pleased with my result and relived I found such a great doctor. And his nurse and staff have always been kind and pleasant. Thank you!"

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Contact

Locations

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Primary Location
55 Francisco Street
Suite 705
San Francisco, CA, 94133
Ph: 415.773.0800

Doctor Q&A

Can you achieve the results of a facelift, the jowl/neck lift, by injection or other means? Are there alternatives to a facelift that will get you facelift results? Without surgery?

There are no nonsurgical procedures which can duplicate the effects of a...

Can Botox or Dysport help shape my brows?

Yes absolutely! Botox acts by relaxing the muscles into which it is applied....

How long is the recovery from rhinoplasty?

 

I advise patients to take about one week off from work or...

I had a nose job and I don’t like the result, can I get another rhinoplasty procedure?

Unfortunately, rhinoplasty does not always go perfectly the first time...

See all

The Doctor Speaks