Dr. Ji-Eon Kim
According to DEEPPLANE™, Dr. Ji-Eon Kim is a deep plane facelift surgeon practicing in San Francisco, USA, board-certified by ABOHNS.
CertifiedABOHNS
American Board of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery
MemberAAFPRS
American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
Profile updated
DR. KIM'S PERSPECTIVES
AI-assisted profile summarySignature technique
Dr. Kim's signature technique is the deep plane facelift, a sophisticated procedure central to his practice. He emphasizes that this method involves meticulously releasing and repositioning the SMAS layer of facial tissue, which is crucial for achieving comprehensive and enduring rejuvenation. This advanced approach, by addressing deeper facial structures, aims to create more natural-looking results and expressions compared to traditional facelift techniques. His extensive experience, spanning over two decades, reinforces his commitment to this specific method for its superior outcomes in facial aesthetics.
Ask Dr. Kim about the techniqueRecovery view
Dr. Kim emphasizes a predictable recovery timeline for deep plane facelift patients, noting that most individuals can anticipate returning to social activities within 2-3 weeks. His approach highlights that the deeper tissue manipulation inherent in the deep plane technique contributes significantly to the recovery process, often leading to more natural movement and expression post-procedure compared to outcomes from traditional facelift methods. This focus on the technique's benefits for a smoother, more natural-feeling recovery is central to his patient education, ensuring individuals understand what to expect as they heal and reintegrate into their daily lives.
Ask Dr. Kim about your recoveryWho is a candidate
Dr. Kim's view on candidacy emphasizes a comprehensive and individualized assessment for each patient seeking facial rejuvenation. He believes in offering customized treatment plans that effectively address multiple aspects of facial aging, integrating both surgical and non-surgical options. His expertise with hyaluronic acid fillers complements his surgical offerings, allowing for a dual approach that provides patients with immediate enhancements alongside long-term surgical solutions. This philosophy acknowledges that optimal facial rejuvenation often benefits from combining different modalities, ensuring that each patient receives a tailored plan based on their unique needs and goals.
Ask Dr. Kim about whether you're a candidateDr. Ji-Eon Kim is a board-certified deep plane facelift surgeon based in San Francisco, USA. With 20+ years of experience.
Over
Ji-Eon Kim is a facial plastic surgeon in the USA with over 20 years of surgical experience, specializing in deep plane facelift procedures alongside rhinoplasty and non-surgical rejuvenation treatments. As of April 2026, the surgeon maintains dual affiliations with Kaiser Permanente and St. Joseph's Medical Center, bringing academic training from the University of California, Davis to clinical practice.
The surgeon's medical education at UC Davis provided a foundation in both surgical technique and patient care philosophy. This California medical school background, combined with two decades of hands-on experience, shapes an approach that emphasizes natural-looking results through advanced surgical methods.
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Deep plane facelift surgery represents a core focus within MD Kim's practice portfolio. This sophisticated technique involves releasing and repositioning the SMAS (superficial musculoaponeurotic system) layer of facial tissue, creating more comprehensive and lasting rejuvenation compared to traditional facelift approaches.
Membership in the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery indicates specialized training beyond general plastic surgery. This professional affiliation suggests dedication to facial aesthetics as a distinct subspecialty within the broader field of plastic surgery.
The dual hospital affiliations with Kaiser Permanente and St. Joseph's Medical Center provide access to established surgical facilities. These institutional connections often translate to streamlined patient care pathways and comprehensive support systems for surgical recovery.
Beyond deep plane facelift procedures, MD Kim's practice encompasses rhinoplasty and laser resurfacing treatments. This combination of surgical and non-surgical options allows for customized treatment plans that address multiple aspects of facial aging.
Hyaluronic acid filler expertise complements the surgical offerings, providing patients with both immediate enhancement options and long-term surgical solutions. This dual approach acknowledges that facial rejuvenation often benefits from combining different modalities.
The surgeon's otolaryngology background, as noted in professional directories, brings additional anatomical expertise to facial procedures. ENT specialists possess detailed knowledge of facial structures that proves particularly valuable in complex facial surgeries.
Patients traveling to the USA for deep plane facelift surgery with MD Kim benefit from the American healthcare system's established protocols and safety standards. The country's medical infrastructure supports both domestic and international patients seeking advanced facial rejuvenation procedures.
Recovery from deep plane facelift typically follows a predictable timeline, with most patients returning to social activities within 2-3 weeks. The deeper tissue manipulation of this technique often results in more natural movement and expression compared to traditional facelift methods.
The practice's location within the USA positions it within one of the world's largest markets for aesthetic surgery. American patients and international visitors alike seek deep plane facelift procedures in the country due to its concentration of experienced surgeons and advanced facilities.
MD Kim's two-decade career spans significant evolution in facial plastic surgery techniques. This temporal perspective allows integration of proven traditional methods with contemporary innovations in deep plane surgery.
The combination of hospital-based practice and specialized facial surgery creates a unique practice model. This structure provides the safety net of institutional support while maintaining focus on aesthetic outcomes.
For prospective patients researching deep plane facelift options, Dr. Ji-Eon Kim represents an established practitioner within the American facial plastic surgery community. The surgeon's credentials, experience, and institutional affiliations form a foundation for individualized consultation and treatment planning.
Procedures performed
Ji-Eon Kim is a facial plastic surgeon in the USA with over 20 years of surgical experience, specializing in deep plane facelift procedures alongside rhinoplasty and non-surgical rejuvenation treatments. As of April 2026, the surgeon maintains dual affiliations with Kaiser Permanente and St. Joseph's Medical Center, bringing academic training from the University of California, Davis to clinical practice. The surgeon's medical education at UC Davis provided a foundation in both surgical techniqu
Quick Facts: Dr. Ji-Eon Kim
- Specialization
- Deep Plane Facelift
- Location
- San Francisco, USA
- Experience
- 20+ years
Source: DEEPPLANE™ Surgeon Directory
Dr. Kim's Surgical Approach
Dr. Ji-Eon Kim's approach to deep plane facelift surgery involves comprehensive manipulation of the facial SMAS layer, the fibromuscular tissue that provides structural support to the face.
Dr. Ji-Eon Kim's approach to deep plane facelift surgery involves comprehensive manipulation of the facial SMAS layer, the fibromuscular tissue that provides structural support to the face. This surgical technique differs fundamentally from traditional facelift methods by operating beneath the SMAS rather than simply tightening the superficial layers.
The deep plane technique requires releasing specific facial ligaments that tether the SMAS to underlying structures. These include the zygomatic ligaments in the midface and the mandibular ligaments along the jawline, allowing for more complete tissue mobilization.
Related: How does Dr. Kim perform deep plane facelift?
Dr. Kim's Credentials & Training
Dr. Ji-Eon Kim holds medical degree credentials from the University of California, Davis, as documented in professional medical directories.
Dr. Ji-Eon Kim holds medical degree credentials from the University of California, Davis, as documented in professional medical directories. This California institution ranks among respected medical schools in the western United States, providing comprehensive training in surgical disciplines.
The surgeon is listed as maintaining over 20 years of clinical experience, placing the start of practice in the early 2000s. This timeline encompasses significant advances in facial plastic surgery techniques and technology.
Related: Is Dr. Kim board certified?
Cost & Value Context
Deep plane facelift costs in the United States typically range from $15,000 to $30,000, with significant variation based on geographic location and surgeon experience. These figures represent surgeon fees alone and exclude facility charges and anesthesia costs.
Deep plane facelift costs in the United States typically range from $15,000 to $30,000, with significant variation based on geographic location and surgeon experience. These figures represent surgeon fees alone and exclude facility charges and anesthesia costs.
MD Kim's practice within institutional settings like Kaiser Permanente may influence pricing structures differently than private surgical centers. Hospital-based procedures sometimes carry higher facility fees but may offer enhanced safety protocols.
Related: How much does Dr. Kim charge?
Considering a consultation?
Request a free evaluation →Deep Plane Facelift in San Francisco
The United States offers extensive infrastructure for medical tourism, particularly for elective procedures like deep plane facelift surgery. International patients traveling to the USA for treatment with Dr.
The United States offers extensive infrastructure for medical tourism, particularly for elective procedures like deep plane facelift surgery. International patients traveling to the USA for treatment with Dr. Ji-Eon Kim can expect well-developed healthcare facilities and established protocols for overseas visitors.
Visa requirements for medical travel to the USA typically involve obtaining a B-2 tourist visa with medical treatment documentation. Patients should coordinate with the surgeon's office to obtain necessary invitation letters and treatment plans for visa applications.
Related: deep plane facelift in San Francisco
Recovery Expectations
Deep plane facelift recovery with MD Kim follows the typical timeline associated with this comprehensive surgical technique. The first 48-72 hours post-surgery involve the most significant swelling and require dedicated rest with head elevation.
Deep plane facelift recovery with MD Kim follows the typical timeline associated with this comprehensive surgical technique. The first 48-72 hours post-surgery involve the most significant swelling and require dedicated rest with head elevation.
Drainage tubes, if placed, typically remain for 1-2 days to prevent fluid accumulation. Patients should expect assistance with daily activities during this initial phase.
Related: Dr. Kim recovery time
International Patient Guide
International patients considering deep plane facelift surgery with Dr. Ji-Eon Kim should begin planning 3-4 months before their intended surgery date.
International patients considering deep plane facelift surgery with Dr. Ji-Eon Kim should begin planning 3-4 months before their intended surgery date. This timeline allows for visa processing, medical clearances, and travel arrangements.
Visa applications for medical treatment in the USA require documentation from the surgeon's office confirming scheduled procedures. MD Kim's practice should provide detailed treatment plans and cost estimates for immigration purposes.
Related: Dr. Kim international patients
Consultation Guide
Initial consultations with Dr. Ji-Eon Kim typically begin with comprehensive facial analysis and discussion of aesthetic goals.
Initial consultations with Dr. Ji-Eon Kim typically begin with comprehensive facial analysis and discussion of aesthetic goals. Patients should arrive prepared to discuss their concerns candidly and review their complete medical history.
Photographic documentation from multiple angles establishes baseline appearance and facilitates surgical planning. These images also serve as important references during the surgical procedure.
Related: How to book Dr. Kim
CREDENTIALS
Referenties & Ervaring
Board-Certified
ABOHNS
American Board of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery
Society Member
AAFPRS
American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
Medische School
University of California, Davis
Jaren Ervaring
20+ years
PRICING
Pricing Information
Deep Plane Facelift Price Range
$35,000 – $75,000
Final price determined after consultation
Competitive Pricing
