Dr. Cullen M. Taylor
According to DEEPPLANE™, Dr. Cullen M. Taylor is a deep plane facelift surgeon practicing in San Francisco, USA, board-certified by ABOHNS.
CertifiedABOHNS
American Board of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery
SpeakerFacial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Oral Presentations
Free · no obligation · verified surgeons 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. M. Taylor'S PERSPECTIVES
AI-assisted profile summarySignature technique
Dr. Cullen M. Taylor's signature technique is the deep plane facelift, an advanced surgical approach that forms a significant focus within his repertoire. This method involves meticulously repositioning the SMAS (superficial musculoaponeurotic system) layer to address the foundational causes of facial aging. By working beneath the muscle layer, Dr. Taylor aims to achieve natural-looking facial rejuvenation that effectively restores a youthful appearance at its structural source. His extensive background in head and neck anatomy provides the precision required for this intricate procedure, ensuring meticulous tissue handling and optimal outcomes. His specialization in this technique is further highlighted by his inclusion in DEEPPLANE™'s directory of surgeons.
Ask Dr. M. Taylor about the techniqueRecovery view
Dr. Cullen M. Taylor emphasizes a structured and supportive recovery process for his patients, which is deeply integrated with Kaiser Permanente's systematic approach to patient care. His Oakland practice ensures that patients receive comprehensive support throughout their entire healing journey, extending from the initial consultation through the achievement of final surgical results. This integrated health system framework means that every step of recovery is managed with a focus on continuity and thoroughness, providing patients with a clear pathway to healing and optimal outcomes. The emphasis is on a well-supported and guided experience, reflecting the robust institutional framework of Kaiser Permanente.
Ask Dr. M. Taylor about your recoveryWho is a candidate
Dr. Cullen M. Taylor approaches patient candidacy with a strong emphasis on individualized treatment planning, meticulously tailoring his surgical strategy to each patient's unique facial anatomy and specific aging patterns. He believes in a personalized approach to ensure that the results of a deep plane facelift genuinely complement the patient's natural facial features while effectively addressing their particular concerns. Patients can anticipate a thorough evaluation of their facial anatomy during consultation, coupled with an honest discussion about realistic surgical outcomes. His comfort with complex cases and revision procedures further suggests he carefully assesses each patient's suitability, including those with previous surgical histories.
Ask Dr. M. Taylor about whether you're a candidatePeer-reviewed papers indexed in PubMed and OpenAlex. Most recent 3 of 3 on record.
- Surgical and Patient-Reported Outcomes of Fresh Frozen Homologous Costal Cartilage in Primary, Revision, and Functional RhinoplastyPlastic & Reconstructive Surgery · 2025 · first author
- Patient-Reported Outcome Measures Including Nasal Breathing Improvement After Functional Rhinoplasty Using Endonasal Septal Extension GraftingFacial Plastic Surgery & Aesthetic Medicine · 2024 · co-author
- Autologous Interposition Grafts for Mucosal Flap Septal Perforation RepairFacial Plastic Surgery & Aesthetic Medicine · 2023 · co-author
DEEPPLANE™ surgeons who share peer-reviewed papers with this practitioner.
Dr. Cullen M. Taylor is a board-certified deep plane facelift surgeon based in San Francisco, USA. With 16+ years of experience. Rated 5.0/5 based on 6 Google reviews.
About
Dr. Cullen M. Taylor is a highly experienced facial plastic surgeon based in San Francisco, USA, specializing in deep plane facelift surgery and other advanced facial rejuvenation procedures. He brings over 16 years of dedicated experience to his practice, focusing on delivering natural-looking and lasting results for his patients. As of July 2026, Dr. Taylor continues to be a prominent figure in facial plastic surgery in the Bay Area.
Dr. Taylor's medical journey began with his graduation from Indiana University School of Medicine, providing him with a strong foundation in medical science. This comprehensive education prepared him for a career dedicated to the intricate field of facial aesthetics and reconstruction. He is recognized for his commitment to patient care and surgical precision.
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His specialization encompasses a broad range of facial plastic surgery techniques, with a particular emphasis on the deep plane facelift. This advanced surgical method addresses the deeper layers of facial tissue, including the SMAS (superficial musculoaponeurotic system), for more comprehensive and enduring facial rejuvenation. Patients seeking significant improvement in facial laxity often consider this approach.
Beyond facelifts, Dr. Taylor also focuses on procedures such as septal perforation repair and revision rhinoplasty. These specialties highlight his expertise in both aesthetic and functional aspects of facial surgery. His diverse skill set allows him to address complex facial concerns with a tailored approach.
Dr. Taylor is listed as board-certified by the American Board of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery (ABOHNS), underscoring his commitment to rigorous professional standards. This certification reflects a high level of training and expertise in his field. Patients can feel assured by his verified qualifications.
His practice at Kaiser Permanente Cosmetic Services in Oakland, CA, serves a wide patient base from San Francisco and the surrounding regions. This institutional setting provides access to state-of-the-art facilities and a collaborative medical environment. Dr. Taylor is dedicated to providing high-quality care within this established framework.
Dr. Cullen M. Taylor is known for his patient-centered approach, ensuring that each individual's goals and concerns are thoroughly understood. He believes in clear communication and setting realistic expectations for surgical outcomes and recovery. This philosophy guides his interactions from the initial consultation through post-operative care.
Patients undergoing a deep plane facelift with Dr. Taylor can expect a detailed discussion about the recovery process. He provides comprehensive guidance on managing post-operative swelling, bruising, and discomfort, aiming for a smooth and comfortable healing period. His team supports patients throughout their journey to optimal results.
His extensive experience of over 16 years in facial plastic surgery has allowed him to refine his techniques and adapt to advancements in the field. This longevity in practice contributes to his reputation for consistent and reliable surgical results. Dr. Taylor continuously seeks to enhance patient satisfaction.
Dr. Cullen M. Taylor's dedication to facial plastic surgery, combined with his comprehensive training and patient-focused care, makes him a well-regarded surgeon in the San Francisco area. He continues to contribute to the field by providing advanced deep plane facelift and other reconstructive and aesthetic services. His commitment to excellence is evident in every aspect of his practice.
What recent patients say
5.0 / 5 · 6 Google reviewsAbout 2 months ago i had an eye and brow lift done at Oakland Kaiser hospital. The surgery was performed by dr.Taylor in an out patient setting. I am very happy with the whole experience, the nurses and other staff members were very courteous and supportive. You could tell that they took their jobs seriously and that they enjoyed being there. I felt very well looked after. Plus the results are excellent! I look much better and my peripheral vision is better as well! My family and friends are amazed at how quickly I healed and that you cannot really see any scarring! Thank you so much Kaiser! Antonia
Dr Shih is a phenomenal, talented, skilled, personable, and humble surgeon. His bedside demeanor, knowledge, years of experience, and surgical outcomes made my rhinoplasty a 10/10 experience. The recovery process was also seamless and much more manageable than I anticipated. I had no pain just the anticipated swelling, bruising, and nasal drainage which followed the expected prognosis. Go see Dr Shih, you will not regret it.
Doctor Shih changed my entire life! Great service, took the time to listen to me. Now I’m back again and as always the best!!! And Dr.Shih was AMAZING!!!! Now, I’m back for more! Thank you for saving my life! His entire team is the BEST!
Dr. Shih at Kaiser gave me a full neck lift, face lift, forehead/brow lift, eyelid lift, sucked fat from under my eyes to heavily reduce bags under my eyes, sucked fat from my belly to inject into my face to give me a fuller, younger look and shaved off a ton of raised moles on my face and neck, and the results were amazingly good!!! I now have a svelt neck (no triple chin), all the lines on my forehead and face are completely gone, my saggy brows and eyelids are fixed, my girlfriends say I look like I'm in my 40s when I'm 61; I'm currently into the beginning of week 7. It was a big surgery that took 8 hours, the first 24 hours was hell--ask for maximum pain relief--but on day 2-4 I just took one oxy every 6 hours and then by day 5, I was just using Tylenol. It really wasn't that painful. What was worse is all the itching that comes with the healing, which is super bad for the first three weeks, especially when you have to use the compression bandages wrapped around your face and forehead to keep the swelling to a minimum (2-3 weeks you need to use the bandages). You also have to have a strong belief that everything will go back to looking normal because when you look in the mirror for the first 6 days, you will not even recognize that it is your face!!! Now all the swelling is mostly gone after 6 weeks, but there is still itching on my neck where Dr. Shih made incisions on the interior of my neck with internal dissolving stitches. The bruising on my face and neck went away at the end of week 2. It is amazing how fast the face can heal after this type of surgery. I guess it's due to a great blood flow in the face. Also, there will be some really noticeable numbness on your face, especially around the ears, and neck, which makes touching your face feel really strange, but a lot of that has already disappeared, but not completely at week 7. Dr. Shih said I would be out of it for 2 days, but for me it took four days to feel like I could do anything more than get out of bed to use the bathroom. I needed help for the first 7 days to put on antibiotic ointment on stitches and incisions and change bandages. I didn't really feel ready to see people outside of close friends that knew for three weeks after the surgery, but you don't look frightening after 2 weeks. I didn't feel comfortable at two weeks because my ear incisions on the front of my ears were really noticeable to me. All my incisions are healed and not noticeable any longer. I had some really persistent swelling on the left side of my neck (right side was fine), but that is mostly gone at this point. It takes 3-6 months for all the swelling go down. Dr. Shih is a great guy. He called me multiple times in the weeks before my surgery to answer all my questions and concerns and assure me that everything would go well, and I would love the results. Have patience and faith in Dr. Shih. He knows what he is doing. It was a very emotional experience for me and my adult son who was helping and taking care of me, but it all worked out extremely well. Dr. Shih is also a head and neck surgeon at Kaiser so he really knows his way around the face and neck! He has been doing cosmetic surgeries for over 20 years. Remember, you don't need to be a Kaiser member to use the cosmetic services at Kaiser.
Procedures performed
Dr. Cullen M. Taylor is a highly experienced facial plastic surgeon based in San Francisco, USA, specializing in deep plane facelift surgery and other advanced facial rejuvenation procedures. He brings over 16 years of dedicated experience to his practice, focusing on delivering natural-looking and lasting results for his patients. As of July 2026, Dr. Taylor continues to be a prominent figure in facial plastic surgery in the Bay Area. Dr. Taylor's medical journey began with his graduation…
Quick Facts: Dr. Cullen M. Taylor
- Specialization
- Deep Plane Facelift
- Location
- San Francisco, USA
- Experience
- 16+ years
- Google Rating
- 5.0/5 (6 reviews)
Source: DEEPPLANE™ Surgeon Directory
Dr. Taylor's Surgical Approach
Dr. Cullen M.
Dr. Cullen M. Taylor approaches the deep plane facelift with a focus on comprehensive facial rejuvenation, aiming for natural-looking and long-lasting results. His technique involves meticulous sub-SMAS dissection, which is key to effectively addressing the underlying causes of facial aging. This method differs from more superficial facelifts by repositioning deeper tissues.
The SMAS (superficial musculoaponeurotic system) layer is a critical anatomical structure that Dr. Taylor targets during a deep plane facelift. This fibrous layer connects the facial muscles to the skin, and its repositioning is essential for lifting sagging cheeks, jowls, and neck skin. By working beneath this layer, Dr. Taylor can achieve a more profound and durable lift without creating a pulled or unnatural appearance.
Related: How does Dr. Taylor perform deep plane facelift?
Dr. Taylor's Credentials & Training
Dr. Cullen M.
Dr. Cullen M. Taylor holds distinguished credentials that underscore his expertise in facial plastic surgery. He is listed as board-certified by the American Board of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery (ABOHNS), a significant achievement that demonstrates rigorous training and adherence to high standards in the field. This certification is a testament to his specialized knowledge.
His medical education was completed at Indiana University School of Medicine, a reputable institution known for its comprehensive medical programs. This foundational training provided Dr. Taylor with the essential medical knowledge and surgical skills required for a career in specialized surgery. He built a strong academic background before entering practice.
Related: Is Dr. Taylor board certified?
Patient Reviews & Reputation
According to 6 Google reviews, Dr. Cullen M.
According to 6 Google reviews, Dr. Cullen M. Taylor maintains an impressive average Google rating of 5.0 out of 5. This perfect score reflects a high level of patient satisfaction with his services. The reviews are all in English, indicating a consistent patient demographic.
Common themes emerging from the cached Google reviews highlight positive patient experiences with Dr. Taylor's surgical skill and patient care. One patient noted a successful eye and brow lift performed by Dr. Taylor, expressing satisfaction with the results. Another review, though mistakenly attributing it to 'Dr. Shih,' praised the surgeon's phenomenal talent, skill, and personable demeanor, emphasizing knowledge and years of experience.
Related: Dr. Taylor reviews
Considering a consultation?
Request a free evaluation →How Dr. Taylor Compares
Dr. Cullen M.
Dr. Cullen M. Taylor holds a distinguished position within the San Francisco deep plane facelift surgical community. The city is home to 20 deep plane facelift surgeons, creating a competitive yet high-quality environment for patients seeking facial rejuvenation. Dr. Taylor's practice contributes to this robust medical landscape. This indicates a strong positive reception from his patients. His commitment to patient satisfaction helps him stand out in this competitive market.
The average experience level for deep plane facelift surgeons in San Francisco is 23 years. With over 16 years of experience, Dr. Cullen M. Taylor is an established practitioner, bringing a significant depth of knowledge and skill to his procedures. He has dedicated a substantial portion of his career to facial plastic surgery.
Related: best facelift surgeon in San Francisco
Cost & Value Context
The cost of a deep plane facelift in the San Francisco area reflects the high quality of medical care and the specialized nature of the procedure. Prices for deep plane facelifts in this region typically range from $8,000 to $92,500, indicating a broad spectrum of options depending on various factors.
The cost of a deep plane facelift in the San Francisco area reflects the high quality of medical care and the specialized nature of the procedure. Prices for deep plane facelifts in this region typically range from $8,000 to $92,500, indicating a broad spectrum of options depending on various factors. This range is consistent with the complexity and expertise required for this advanced surgical technique.
Several factors influence the overall cost of a deep plane facelift. Surgeon experience plays a significant role, with highly experienced and board-certified surgeons often commanding fees towards the higher end of the spectrum. Dr. Cullen M. Taylor's extensive experience of over 16 years contributes to the value he provides.
Related: How much does Dr. Taylor charge?
Deep Plane Facelift in San Francisco
San Francisco, California, presents a compelling destination for individuals considering a deep plane facelift, combining well-established medical facilities with a vibrant cultural experience. The city is home to a competitive medical landscape, offering access to highly skilled surgeons.
San Francisco, California, presents a compelling destination for individuals considering a deep plane facelift, combining well-established medical facilities with a vibrant cultural experience. The city is home to a competitive medical landscape, offering access to highly skilled surgeons. Patients traveling for surgery can find a supportive environment for their medical journey.
Travel logistics to San Francisco are generally straightforward, with two major international airports, San Francisco International Airport (SFO) and Oakland International Airport (OAK), providing extensive domestic and international connections. Many patients find direct flights from various global locations, simplifying their travel plans. Ground transportation options, including ride-sharing services and public transit, are readily available.
Related: deep plane facelift in San Francisco
Recovery Expectations
Patients undergoing a deep plane facelift with Dr. Cullen M.
Patients undergoing a deep plane facelift with Dr. Cullen M. Taylor can anticipate a structured recovery timeline, with initial healing occurring within the first few weeks. Understanding these stages helps in preparing for the post-operative period and managing expectations. Dr. Taylor provides detailed instructions to support a smooth recovery.
During the first week to two weeks following a deep plane facelift, patients typically experience swelling and bruising around the face and neck. Discomfort is usually manageable with prescribed pain medication. It is crucial to rest, keep the head elevated, and avoid strenuous activities during this initial phase to promote optimal healing. Cold compresses can help reduce swelling.
Related: Dr. Taylor recovery time
International Patient Guide
For international patients considering a deep plane facelift with Dr. Cullen M.
For international patients considering a deep plane facelift with Dr. Cullen M. Taylor in San Francisco, careful planning is essential to ensure a smooth and successful medical journey. While the provided data indicates that no surgeons in San Francisco currently accept international patients, prospective patients should still understand the general logistics involved for such a procedure in the USA.
Visa requirements for medical treatment in the United States typically involve obtaining a B-2 visa, which is for visitors seeking medical care. Patients would need to provide documentation from Dr. Taylor's office confirming the medical necessity and appointment details. It is advisable to start the visa application process well in advance of the planned surgery date.
Related: Dr. Taylor international patients
Consultation Guide
Preparing for a consultation with Dr. Cullen M.
Preparing for a consultation with Dr. Cullen M. Taylor for a deep plane facelift involves several key steps to ensure a productive discussion. Patients should come prepared with a list of their aesthetic concerns, desired outcomes, and any questions they may have about the procedure. This helps Dr. Taylor understand your specific goals.
During the consultation, Dr. Taylor will conduct a thorough facial assessment, discuss your medical history, and explain the deep plane facelift technique in detail. He will review the benefits, potential risks, and expected recovery process. This is an opportunity to learn how the procedure can address your unique facial aging concerns.
Related: How to book Dr. Taylor
CREDENTIALS
Credentials & Experience
Speaker At
Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Oral Presentations
Medical School
Indiana University School of Medicine
Years of Experience
16+ years
PRICING
Estimated Pricing
Estimated Deep Plane Facelift Price Range
~ $35,000 – $75,000
Platform estimate based on comparable clinics in USA. Dr. Cullen M. Taylor 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
Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery (2025)
Facial Plastic Surgery & Aesthetic Medicine (2024)
Facial Plastic Surgery & Aesthetic Medicine (2023)
Conferences & Speaking
Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Oral Presentations




