Dr. Usha Rajagopal
According to DEEPPLANE™, Dr. Usha Rajagopal is a deep plane facelift surgeon practicing in San Francisco, USA, board-certified by ABPS.
CertifiedABPS
American Board of Plastic Surgery
MemberASPS
American Society of Plastic Surgeons
Free · no obligation · surgeons typically reply within 48 hours
Deep Plane Facelift · typical in USA
$35,000 – $75,000
Registry-wide listed range — not a quote from this surgeon
Pricing detailsProfile updated
Dr. Rajagopal'S PERSPECTIVES
AI-assisted profile summarySignature technique
Dr. Rajagopal’s signature surgical focus centers on the deep plane facelift technique, a sophisticated approach to facial rejuvenation that she specializes in at her San Francisco practice. This method involves meticulously releasing and repositioning the deeper superficial musculoaponeurotic system, or SMAS layer, of facial tissues. By addressing these foundational structures, she aims to achieve more comprehensive and natural-looking results for patients seeking to counteract signs of aging. Her expertise in this procedure positions her as a key practitioner for those considering advanced facial lifting, emphasizing a thorough understanding of complex facial anatomy to ensure optimal outcomes.
Ask Dr. Rajagopal about the techniqueRecovery view
Dr. Rajagopal's perspective on recovery from a deep plane facelift highlights a typical timeline where patients can anticipate several weeks for the full recovery process. She notes that most individuals are generally able to resume their normal daily activities within three to four weeks following the procedure. This period allows for the deeper tissue repositioning inherent in the deep plane technique to settle, contributing to the desired outcome. Her practice emphasizes that this method, by working with the deeper SMAS layer, often yields results that appear more natural and harmonious with the patient's overall facial structure compared to older, more superficial facelift approaches, ensuring a smoother transition back to daily life.
Ask Dr. Rajagopal about your recoveryWho is a candidate
Dr. Rajagopal considers patients with specific signs of facial aging as ideal candidates for the deep plane facelift technique. She notes that this advanced surgical approach offers particular benefits for individuals experiencing significant jowling, where the lower face shows noticeable sagging and loss of definition along the jawline. Additionally, patients presenting with midface descent, characterized by a dropping of the cheek tissues and a tired appearance, are often well-suited for this procedure. Her focus is on identifying those who will gain the most comprehensive and natural rejuvenation from the deep plane method, ensuring tailored outcomes.
Ask Dr. Rajagopal about whether you're a candidatePricing philosophy
Dr. Rajagopal's practice addresses the financial considerations of deep plane facelift surgery by offering various financing options, aiming to make these advanced procedures more accessible to a broader range of patients. She understands that the investment required for such specialized surgery in San Francisco reflects the city's unique economic landscape, including its higher cost of living and the highly competitive nature of the medical market. Her approach ensures that while the quality of care and surgical expertise remains paramount, patients are also provided with practical solutions to manage the financial aspect of their aesthetic journey, facilitating their access to desired facial rejuvenation.
Ask Dr. Rajagopal about pricingPeer-reviewed papers indexed in PubMed and OpenAlex. Most recent 3 of 3 on record.
- Delayed-Onset Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension After Liposuction: A Case Report and Review.Annals of plastic surgery · 2024 · senior author
- Iloprost Enhances Survival of Axial-Pattern Skin Flaps in an Ischemia-Reperfusion ModelPlastic & Reconstructive Surgery · 1995 · first author
- Iloprost Enhances Survival of Axial-Pattern Skin Flaps in an Ischemia-Reperfusion ModelPlastic & Reconstructive Surgery · 1995 · first author
Dr. Usha Rajagopal is a board-certified deep plane facelift surgeon based in San Francisco, USA. With 20+ years of experience. Rated 4.7/5 based on 159 Google reviews.
About
With more than twenty years of surgical practice in San Francisco, Dr. Usha Rajagopal is a plastic surgeon who focuses on facial rejuvenation, including the deep plane facelift. She leads the San Francisco Plastic Surgery & Laser Center in the heart of the city.
As of July 2026, Dr. Usha Rajagopal is listed as board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, one of the recognized standards for cosmetic and reconstructive surgical training in the United States.
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Dr. Rajagopal completed her medical education at The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, an institution well-regarded for its rigorous surgical curriculum. Her formal training laid the groundwork for a career centered on the face.
The deep plane facelift is among the procedures she offers, a technique that repositions deeper facial tissues rather than simply tightening the skin. This approach aims for natural-looking, longer-lasting rejuvenation.
Her practice is distinguished by an all-female medical team, a detail many patients appreciate when discussing personal cosmetic goals. Dr. Rajagopal has described a wish to make patients feel at ease throughout their journey.
Beyond facelift surgery, Dr. Rajagopal works across facial rejuvenation procedures. Her clinical interests include the aesthetics of facial aging and the restoration of youthful contour and balance.
Situated at 490 Post Street in downtown San Francisco, her center serves patients from across the Bay Area and beyond. The location places her practice within a city known globally for innovation and refined taste.
Dr. Rajagopal is a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, a professional body that promotes standards of practice and continuing education among its members.
The deep plane technique she offers involves working beneath the SMAS (the superficial muscular aponeurotic system, a layer of tissue and muscle in the face). This allows the surgeon to lift the structure supporting the skin, not merely the surface.
Her approach to recovery emphasizes clear guidance and attentive follow-up, helping patients understand what to expect through each stage of healing. Facial surgery is a process, and preparation shapes the outcome.
With over twenty years of experience, Dr. Rajagopal has practiced through many changes in facial surgery, from evolving suture techniques to refinements in tissue repositioning. Longevity in a single specialty reflects sustained clinical focus.
San Francisco patients seeking facial rejuvenation often value a surgeon who combines technical training with a comfortable, communicative practice environment. Dr. Rajagopal has built her center around both aims.
Her specialties extend across face, breast, body, and skin treatments, though facial rejuvenation and the deep plane facelift remain central to her cosmetic surgery work. She also offers medical skincare and laser treatments.
For women considering a deep plane facelift in San Francisco, Dr. Rajagopal represents an established option with two decades of surgical practice and recognized board certification. Every candidate should confirm current credentials directly.
Profiles such as this one on DeepPlane.com aim to give prospective patients a clear starting point when researching facial surgeons across more than sixty-five countries. Dr. Rajagopal's San Francisco practice appears among that international directory.
What recent patients say
4.7 / 5 · 159 Google reviewsWow, I’m honestly so grateful for Dr. Rajagapol and her entire team. She fit me into her schedule as a brand new patient, which I really appreciated, especially because I was dealing with three cystic breakouts and lowkey freaking out. She immediately made me feel calm, listened to everything, and treated the cysts with steroid injections right then and there. I’ve gotten injections before and her technique was amazing- no pain at all. She was so gentle and reassuring the whole time. Also have to shout out Laura at the front desk, she really went above and beyond to help me get in. And nurse Alexa has the BEST bedside manner. She made sure I was comfortable before and after, explained everything, and I actually felt like I learned a lot. Such an amazing experience overall. I felt taken care of from start to finish! Looking forward to coming back for additional treatments and would highly recommend to anyone looking for personalized treatment!
Everyone was very kind and professional. Alyssa is extremely knowledgeable and efficient. I felt well taken care of, with all of my needs met!
Dr. Usha Rajagopal is absolutely amazing at what she does! She has been working with me on laser treatments for acne and scars from previous accidents, and the results have been incredible. What I love most is how comfortable and at ease she makes you feel every single visit. Thanks to her care, I feel so much more confident in myself. Her bedside manner is wonderful. She is warm, compassionate, and truly dedicated to her patients. The office is beautiful, the building is gorgeous, and the front desk staff are always so friendly and helpful. If you are looking for a talented and caring plastic surgeon, look no further. I highly recommend Dr. Rajagopal!
I had such an amazing breast augmentation/lift experience with Dr. Usha. I had a previous breast aug done 4 years prior with a different surgeon which left me feeling so insecure. The old implants were not appropriate for my frame. I met with Dr Usha in April of 2025 and immediately felt safe, listened to, and understood. She agreed with my opinion that the old implants were too large. We agreed on 285cc silicone implants to replace my old 600cc saline ones. The day of surgery went amazing and I never once felt unsafe or unsure. I trust Dr Usha and her team 100%. Everything from pre op to surgery to post op has been amazing. I am so happy with my results and cannot recommend Dr Usha and her team enough. Thank you so much!
Procedures performed
With more than twenty years of surgical practice in San Francisco, Dr. Usha Rajagopal is a plastic surgeon who focuses on facial rejuvenation, including the deep plane facelift. She leads the San Francisco Plastic Surgery & Laser Center in the heart of the city. As of July 2026, Dr. Usha Rajagopal is listed as board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, one of the recognized standards for cosmetic and reconstructive surgical training in the United States. Dr. Rajagopal completed…
Quick Facts: Dr. Usha Rajagopal
- Specialization
- Deep Plane Facelift
- Location
- San Francisco, USA
- Experience
- 20+ years
- Google Rating
- 4.7/5 (159 reviews)
Source: DEEPPLANE™ Surgeon Directory
Dr. Rajagopal's Surgical Approach
Dr. Usha Rajagopal approaches the deep plane facelift as a structural procedure, addressing the deeper tissues of the face rather than the skin surface alone.
Dr. Usha Rajagopal approaches the deep plane facelift as a structural procedure, addressing the deeper tissues of the face rather than the skin surface alone. This philosophy defines the difference between a modern deep plane technique and older skin-only methods.
The deep plane facelift works within and beneath the SMAS (the superficial muscular aponeurotic system, a supportive layer of muscle and connective tissue that sits under the skin). By releasing and repositioning this layer, the surgeon can restore facial contour at its foundation.
Related: How does Dr. Rajagopal perform deep plane facelift?
Dr. Rajagopal's Credentials & Training
Dr. Usha Rajagopal is listed as board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, the certifying body recognized within the United States for plastic and reconstructive surgery.
Dr. Usha Rajagopal is listed as board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, the certifying body recognized within the United States for plastic and reconstructive surgery. Board certification signals completion of accredited training and standardized examination.
She holds her medical degree from The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, an institution known for rigorous surgical education. This training forms the academic foundation of her more than twenty years in practice.
Related: Is Dr. Rajagopal board certified?
Patient Reviews & Reputation
According to 159 Google reviews, Dr. Usha Rajagopal holds an average rating of 4.7 out of 5, a figure that aligns with the average among San Francisco deep plane facelift surgeons.
According to 159 Google reviews, Dr. Usha Rajagopal holds an average rating of 4.7 out of 5, a figure that aligns with the average among San Francisco deep plane facelift surgeons. This body of feedback offers useful insight into patient experience.
Among the cached reviews available, all five sampled were written in English, reflecting a predominantly local, English-speaking patient base. The language consistency suggests a practice serving primarily domestic patients.
Related: Dr. Rajagopal reviews
Considering a consultation?
Request a free evaluation →How Dr. Rajagopal Compares
Among San Francisco's community of deep plane facelift surgeons, Dr. Usha Rajagopal is an experienced and established practitioner, with more than twenty years of surgical practice.
Among San Francisco's community of deep plane facelift surgeons, Dr. Usha Rajagopal is an experienced and established practitioner, with more than twenty years of surgical practice. Her tenure sits close to the local average of roughly twenty-three years.
San Francisco's deep plane facelift market includes about twenty surgeons, making it a competitive field where credentials and experience help distinguish practitioners. Dr. Rajagopal's board certification and society membership place her within this well-qualified group.
Related: best facelift surgeon in San Francisco
Cost & Value Context
The cost of a deep plane facelift in San Francisco reflects the city's position as a major, higher-cost metropolitan market within the United States. Prospective patients should expect pricing consistent with established US urban centers.
The cost of a deep plane facelift in San Francisco reflects the city's position as a major, higher-cost metropolitan market within the United States. Prospective patients should expect pricing consistent with established US urban centers.
Across the San Francisco market, deep plane facelift pricing spans a wide range, with local figures reported between roughly $8,000 at the lower end and up to approximately $92,500 for the most extensive procedures. This range reflects meaningful differences in scope and complexity.
Related: How much does Dr. Rajagopal charge?
Deep Plane Facelift in San Francisco
San Francisco offers a distinctive setting for patients considering a deep plane facelift, combining a globally recognized medical culture with a refined, cosmopolitan character. The city has long attracted those seeking careful, quality-focused surgical care.
San Francisco offers a distinctive setting for patients considering a deep plane facelift, combining a globally recognized medical culture with a refined, cosmopolitan character. The city has long attracted those seeking careful, quality-focused surgical care.
San Francisco is home to a competitive community of facial surgeons, with the city's deep plane specialists averaging more than two decades of experience. This depth of local expertise gives prospective patients meaningful choice.
Related: deep plane facelift in San Francisco
Recovery Expectations
Recovery from a deep plane facelift generally unfolds over several months, with the most visible healing occurring in the first few weeks. Understanding this timeline helps patients plan realistically around work and social commitments.
Recovery from a deep plane facelift generally unfolds over several months, with the most visible healing occurring in the first few weeks. Understanding this timeline helps patients plan realistically around work and social commitments.
During the first one to two weeks, swelling and bruising are most pronounced. Most patients rest at home during this period, keep the head elevated, and follow their surgeon's guidance on incision care and activity restrictions.
Related: Dr. Rajagopal recovery time
International Patient Guide
Patients considering travel to San Francisco for a deep plane facelift with Dr. Usha Rajagopal should plan carefully around consultation, surgery, and recovery.
Patients considering travel to San Francisco for a deep plane facelift with Dr. Usha Rajagopal should plan carefully around consultation, surgery, and recovery. San Francisco is highly accessible internationally through San Francisco International Airport.
International visitors to the United States typically require a valid visa or authorization under the Visa Waiver Program, depending on their country of citizenship. Patients should confirm entry requirements well ahead of any planned surgical date.
Related: Dr. Rajagopal international patients
Consultation Guide
A consultation with Dr. Usha Rajagopal typically begins with a discussion of your goals, medical history, and the pattern of facial aging you wish to address.
A consultation with Dr. Usha Rajagopal typically begins with a discussion of your goals, medical history, and the pattern of facial aging you wish to address. This conversation shapes the surgical plan.
Expect the surgeon to examine your facial anatomy, skin quality, and underlying structure to determine whether a deep plane facelift suits your needs. Photographs and measurements often support this assessment.
Related: How to book Dr. Rajagopal
CREDENTIALS
Credentials & Experience
PRICING
Estimated Pricing
Estimated Deep Plane Facelift Price Range
~ $35,000 – $75,000
Platform estimate based on comparable clinics in USA. Dr. Usha Rajagopal has not published pricing on DEEPPLANE™ — this is not a quote from the surgeon.
Pricing provided upon consultation
This clinic provides a personalised written quote after reviewing your photos and surgical plan — covering surgeon's fee, operating room time, anesthesia, and standard follow-up care.
Languages
Research & Publications3 peer-reviewed
Annals of plastic surgery (2024)
Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery (1995)
Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery (1995)
