Dr. James J. Chao, MD 91942

Name: James J. Chao, MD
Last name: Chao
Gender: male
Began aesthetic medicine in: 1995
Years experience: 28
Primary Specialty: Plastic Surgeon
Website: https://www.primeplasticsurgery.com/about/our-team/james-chao-md-facs/?utm_source=RealSelf&utm_medium=Spotlight&utm_campaign=Promo
Business: Prime Plastic Surgery
Address: 8200 La Mesa Blvd
Phone: (619) 304-6273
International phone number: +16193046273
City: La Mesa
State: California
Zip Code: 91942
Country: US
Statement: Dr. Chao, MD FACS, is a nationally renowned plastic surgeon who serves a clientele of celebrities, elite athletes, and individuals seeking cutting-edge non-invasive and surgical solutions. He founded Prime Plastic Surgery & Med Spas to unite his expertise with other leading medical professionals, ensuring that patients receive the highest standard of care in the field of plastic surgery.

Dr. Chao boasts certification by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) and holds the distinguished title of Fellow of the American College of Surgeons. He is an active member of major plastic surgery societies, including ASPS, ASAPS, AAPS, ASRM, and PSRC. His clinical excellence is underscored by his role as the plastic and hand surgeon for the San Diego Chargers NFL Football team and ESPN X Games, where he is frequently seen on the sidelines attending to athletes’ injuries.

Dr. Chao’s expertise extends to the media, as he has made appearances on The Doctor’s Show and is regularly featured in publications such as the San Diego Union-Tribune, alongside other regional and national outlets. He also previously served as a Clinical Professor in the Division of Plastic Surgery at UC San Diego.
Consulting Fees: 150$
Consultation note: Book your consultation
Has Sponsored Offer : No

Clinical Privileges: 
  • Procedures done in office
Education: 
  • Undergraduate:
  • BA, Psychology, Honors
  • BS, Biology, Honors ​
  • Graduate:
  • MBA, UCSD Rady School of Management​
  • MS, Microbiology, New York University School of Medicine​, New York, New York, 1992
  • PhD, University of Miami School of Medicine​, Miami, Florida
  • Medical: MD, New York University School of Medicine​, New York, New York
Postdoc Training: 
  • Residency:
  • General Surgery, Institute of Reconstructive Plastic Surgery, NYU Medical Center
  • Plastic Surgery, Institute of Reconstructive Plastic Surgery, NYU Medical Center
  • Fellowship: Hand Surgery, NYU Medical Center/Bellevue Hospital Center

James J. Chao, MD

Member of: 
  • American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS)
  • American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS)
Board Certification: 
James Jee-Ling Chao (ABMSUID -658636)

Viewed: 7/25/2008
Day of birth:
4/25/1962

Status: Alive
Certification: American Board of Plastic Surgery
Plastic Surgery – General

Status: Certified
Active Time-Limited Initial Certification: 9/8/2001 – 12/31/2011
Education: 1993 MD (Doctor of Medicine)
Location: 9014 Montrose WaySan Diego, CA 92122-1517 (United States)

GPS coordinates on map: 32.7645258,-117.0206974

Primary location: 
Location name: San Diego
State: CA
Country: US
Map point: 32.7188,-117.1640015
Treatments: 
  • African American Rhinoplasty
  • Areola Reduction Surgery
  • Arm Lift
  • Asian Rhinoplasty
  • Belly Button Surgery
  • Body Lift
  • Botox
  • Botox for Gummy Smile
  • Botox for Hyperhidrosis
  • Botox for Migraines
  • Botox for TMJ
  • Botox for Vaginismus
  • Brazilian Butt Lift
  • Brazilian Butt Lift Revision
  • Breast Augmentation
  • Breast Fat Transfer
  • Breast Implant Removal
  • Breast Implant Revision
  • Breast Implants
  • Breast Lift
  • Breast Lift with Implants
  • Breast Reconstruction
  • Breast Reconstruction Revision
  • Breast Reconstruction with DIEP Flap
  • Breast Reconstruction with Fat Transfer
  • Breast Reconstruction with Latissimus Flap
  • Breast Reconstruction with SGAP Flap
  • Breast Reconstruction with TRAM Flap
  • Breast Reduction
  • BroadBand Light (BBL)
  • Brow Lift
  • Butt Augmentation
  • Butt Implant Removal
  • Butt Implants
  • Butt Lift
  • Cheek Augmentation
  • Cheek Lift
  • Cheekbone Reduction
  • Chemical Peel
  • Chin Filler
  • Chin Implant
  • Chin Liposuction
  • Cleft Lip And Palate Repair
  • Clitoral Hood Reduction
  • CO2 Laser
  • Coolaser
  • CoolMini
  • CoolPeel
  • CoolSculpting
  • Cyst Removal
  • Dermal Fillers
  • DiamondGlow
  • diVa Vaginal Laser
  • Double Eyelid Surgery
  • Drainless Tummy Tuck
  • Dysport
  • Ear Surgery
  • Earfold
  • Earlobe Repair
  • Embrace Scar Therapy
  • Emsculpt
  • Endermologie
  • Eyelid Surgery
  • Facelift
  • Facelift Revision
  • FaceTite
  • Facial
  • Facial Fat Transfer
  • Facial Reconstructive Surgery
  • Fractional Laser
  • Fraxel Laser
  • Gastric Balloon
  • Genioplasty
  • Glycolic Peel
  • Green Peel
  • Gynecomastia Surgery
  • Halo Laser
  • Hand Reconstructive Surgery
  • Hand Rejuvenation
  • Hip Augmentation
  • Hyaluronidase
  • HydraFacial
  • HydraSolve
  • Hymenoplasty
  • i-Lipo
  • Inverted Nipple Surgery
  • IPL
  • Jaw Reduction
  • Jet Peel
  • JuVaShape
  • Juvederm
  • Kybella
  • Labia Puffing
  • Labiaplasty
  • LaseMD
  • Laser Hair Removal
  • Laser Liposuction
  • Laser Peel
  • Laser Resurfacing
  • Latisse
  • Lifestyle Lift
  • Lip Fillers
  • Lip Lift
  • Liposuction
  • Liposuction Revision
  • Liquid Facelift
  • Low-Level Laser Therapy
  • Lower Facelift
  • MACS Facelift
  • Male Tummy Tuck
  • Mastectomy
  • Mesotherapy
  • Micro Botox
  • Microdermabrasion
  • Mini Facelift
  • Mini Tummy Tuck
  • Mole Removal
  • Mommy Makeover
  • Neck Lift
  • NeoGraft
  • Nipple Reduction
  • Nipple Surgery
  • Nonsurgical Breast Lift
  • Nonsurgical Butt Lift
  • Nonsurgical Facelift
  • Nonsurgical Neck Lift
  • Nonsurgical Nose Job
  • Obalon Intragastric Balloon
  • PCA Skin Peel
  • Pec Implants
  • PlasmaPen
  • Power-Assisted Liposuction (PAL)
  • ProFractional Laser
  • PRP for Hair Loss
  • PRP Injections
  • QuickLift
  • Radiesse
  • Rejuvapen
  • Restylane
  • Restylane Defyne
  • Restylane Lyft
  • Restylane Refyne
  • Restylane Silk
  • Retin-A
  • Revision Rhinoplasty
  • Rhinoplasty
  • SAFELipo
  • Salicylic Peel
  • Scar Removal
  • Sclerotherapy
  • Sientra Breast Implants
  • Sientra Breast Reconstruction
  • Sinus Surgery
  • Skin Lightening
  • Skin Rejuvenation
  • Skin Tightening
  • SlimLipo
  • Smart Lipo
  • Subcision
  • Tattoo Removal
  • Thigh Lift
  • Tumescent Liposuction
  • Tummy Tuck
  • Tummy Tuck Revision
  • Ultherapy
  • ULTRAcel
  • UltraShape
  • Vaginal Rejuvenation
  • Vaginoplasty
  • Vampire Facelift
  • Vampire Facial
  • Vanquish
  • Vaser Liposuction
  • VI Peel
  • Vivace
  • Viveve
  • Vollure
  • Voluma

RealSelf Info

Awards: 
  • American Legion Medal of Distinction
  • City of Beverly Hills Community Service Award
  • Heritage Fund Scholarship, Stanford University
  • Forest Whitaker Research Scholarship
  • John G. Beach Excellence in Research Award
  • Iron Arrow Award
  • Excellence in Research Award, Eastern Student Research Forum
  • NYU Resident’s Night Basic Science Research Award, IRPS

Rating: 5.0
Profile views: 16957
Answer count: 71
Review count: 89
5 star count: 45
Total star count: 45
Star rating: 4.6271008454415
Lead count last three months: 6
Anonymous votes: 0
Offer count: 0
Profile created: Aug 12, 2008
Profile modified: Sep 23, 2023
Profile photo modified: Sep 23, 2023
Profile promotion: Yes
Profile inactive: No
Premier status: Performance
Tier: Free-Unclaimed
RealCare Promise: No
Directory link: Board Certified Plastic Surgeon
RealSelf’s PRO: Yes
Doctor Designation Start Time: Jul 20, 2020
Doctor Designation End Time: Jan 1, 2033

Locations

  • San Diego, CA, US. GPS coordinates: 32.7188,-117.1640015

Latest ratings of treatments

  • Mommy Makeover (Mar 2015) – Overall rating: 5/5 (Wait times: 4/5, Doctor’s bedside manner: 5/5, Phone or email responsiveness: 5/5, Payment process: 5/5, Time spent with patient: 5/5, After care follow-up: 5/5, Staff professionalism & courtesy: 5/5, Answered questions: 5/5)
  • Breast Lift with Implants (Sep 2023) – Overall rating: 5/5
  • Breast Augmentation (Sep 2023) – Overall rating: 5/5
  • Biocorneum (Sep 2023) – Overall rating: 5/5 (Wait times: 5/5, Doctor’s bedside manner: 5/5, Phone or email responsiveness: 5/5, Payment process: 5/5, Time spent with patient: 5/5, After care follow-up: 5/5, Staff professionalism & courtesy: 5/5, Answered questions: 5/5)
  • Tummy Tuck (Oct 2018) – Overall rating: 5/5
  • Breast Augmentation (Mar 2020) – Overall rating: 5/5
  • Gynecomastia Surgery (Sep 2023) – Overall rating: 5/5
  • Breast Implant Revision (Jul 2020) – Overall rating: 5/5
  • Neck Lift (Jul 2020) – Overall rating: 5/5 (Wait times: 5/5, Doctor’s bedside manner: 5/5, Phone or email responsiveness: 5/5, Payment process: 5/5, Time spent with patient: 5/5, After care follow-up: 5/5, Staff professionalism & courtesy: 5/5, Answered questions: 5/5)
  • Breast Augmentation (Jun 2020) – Overall rating: 5/5 (Wait times: 5/5, Doctor’s bedside manner: 5/5, Phone or email responsiveness: 5/5, Payment process: 5/5, Time spent with patient: 5/5, After care follow-up: 5/5, Staff professionalism & courtesy: 5/5, Answered questions: 5/5)
  • Tummy Tuck (Sep 2023) – Overall rating: 5/5
  • Botox (Dec 2020) – Overall rating: 5/5
  • Breast Augmentation (Sep 2023) – Overall rating: 5/5 (Wait times: 4/5, Phone or email responsiveness: 5/5, Time spent with patient: 5/5, Staff professionalism & courtesy: 5/5, Answered questions: 5/5
  • Tummy Tuck (Mar 2021) – Overall rating: 5/5
  • Liposuction (Jun 2021) – Overall rating: 5/5
  • Mommy Makeover (Mar 2021) – Overall rating: 5/5
  • Breast Lift with Implants (Aug 2020) – Overall rating: 5/5
  • Tummy Tuck (Jun 2021) – Overall rating: 5/5
  • Breast Augmentation (Aug 2021) – Overall rating: 5/5
  • Breast Augmentation (Oct 2021) – Overall rating: 5/5
  • Gynecomastia Surgery (Nov 2021) – Overall rating: 5/5
  • Breast Augmentation (Sep 2021) – Overall rating: 5/5
  • Breast Implant Revision (Oct 2021) – Overall rating: 5/5
  • Breast Implant Removal (Oct 2021) – Overall rating: 5/5
  • Mommy Makeover (Sep 2021) – Overall rating: 5/5
  • Breast Lift (Sep 2021) – Overall rating: 5/5
  • Breast Augmentation (Dec 2022) – Overall rating: 5/5
  • Breast Augmentation (Sep 2023) – Overall rating: 5/5
  • Breast Augmentation (Sep 2023) – Overall rating: 5/5

Latest Prices

Mommy Makeover Prices

  • $10000 – Mar 6, 2015 – San Diego, CA
  • $11750 – Sep 28, 2021
  • $11750 – Sep 28, 2021
  • $11750 – Sep 28, 2021
  • $10000 – Mar 6, 2015 – San Diego, CA

Breast Augmentation Prices

  • $7750 – May 6, 2020
  • $9000 – Aug 5, 2021
  • $9200 – May 18, 2022
  • $9200 – May 18, 2022
  • $9200 – May 18, 2022
  • $8500 – Dec 29, 2021
  • $8500 – Dec 29, 2021
  • $8500 – Dec 29, 2021
  • $8500 – Aug 27, 2021
  • $8500 – Aug 27, 2021
  • $8500 – Aug 27, 2021
  • $8500 – Aug 27, 2021
  • $9000 – Aug 5, 2021
  • $9000 – Aug 5, 2021
  • $9000 – Aug 5, 2021
  • $9000 – Aug 5, 2021
  • $7650 – Jul 24, 2020
  • $7650 – Jul 24, 2020
  • $7750 – May 6, 2020
  • $7750 – May 6, 2020
  • $7750 – May 6, 2020

Breast Implant Revision Prices

  • $8000 – Jan 22, 2021
  • $20000 – Jul 9, 2021
  • $20000 – Jul 9, 2021
  • $20000 – Jul 9, 2021
  • $8000 – Jan 22, 2021

Neck Lift Prices

  • $14500 – Jul 10, 2020
  • $14500 – Jul 10, 2020
  • $14500 – Jul 10, 2020
  • $14500 – Jul 10, 2020

Liposuction Prices

  • $11000 – Feb 2, 2022
  • $11000 – Feb 2, 2022
  • $11000 – Feb 2, 2022
  • $4000 – May 20, 2020
  • $4000 – May 20, 2020
  • $4000 – May 20, 2020

Breast Implant Removal Prices

  • $20000 – Mar 17, 2023
  • $20000 – Mar 17, 2023
  • $20000 – Mar 17, 2023
  • $4100 – May 17, 2021
  • $4100 – May 17, 2021
  • $4100 – May 17, 2021
  • $4100 – May 17, 2021
  • $4100 – May 17, 2021

Breast Lift Prices

  • $20000 – Mar 17, 2023
  • $20000 – Mar 17, 2023
  • $20000 – Mar 17, 2023
  • $20000 – Mar 17, 2023
  • $20000 – Mar 17, 2023

Other Prices

  • $20000 – Mar 17, 2023

Eyelid Surgery Prices

  • $3500 – Jul 28, 2020
  • $3500 – Jul 28, 2020
  • $3500 – Jul 28, 2020

Practice Locations

Name & Website
Prime Plastic Surgery & Med Spa – La Mesa, https://www.primeplasticsurgery.com
Address
8200 La Mesa Blvd, La Mesa, California, US, 91942 (GPS coordinates: 32.7645258,-117.0206974)
Phone
(619) 466-8851
Working Hours
Mon: 9:00am – 5:00pm
Tue: 9:00am – 5:00pm
Wed: 9:00am – 5:00pm
Thu: 9:00am – 5:00pm
Fri: 9:00am – 5:00pm
Created / Modified
Mar 20, 2020 / Jul 16, 2023
Name & Website
Prime Plastic Surgery & Med Spa – Sacramento, https://www.primeplasticsurgery.com
Address
3000 S St., Sacramento, California, US, 95816 (GPS coordinates: 38.5629038,-121.4707017)
Phone
(916) 333-5353
Working Hours
Created / Modified
May 2, 2021 / Apr 18, 2023
Name & Website
Prime Plastic Surgery & Med Spa – La Jolla, https://www.primeplasticsurgery.com
Address
9834 Genesee Ave.Ste. 100, La Jolla, California, US, 92037 (GPS coordinates: 32.8842234,-117.2258598)
Phone
(858) 285-4667
Working Hours
Created / Modified
May 2, 2021 / Apr 1, 2023
Name & Website
Prime Plastic Surgery & Med Spa – San Diego, https://www.primeplasticsurgery.com
Address
4645 Carmel Mountain Rd.Ste. 208, San Diego, California, US, 92130 (GPS coordinates: 32.9203376,-117.2137738)
Phone
(858) 285-4667
Working Hours
Created / Modified
May 2, 2021 / Apr 1, 2023
Name & Website
Prime Plastic Surgery & Med Spa – Del Mar, https://www.primeplasticsurgery.com
Address
2670 Via De La ValleSte. A210, Del Mar, California, US, 92014 (GPS coordinates: 32.9811146,-117.2502507)
Phone
(619) 466-8851
Working Hours
Created / Modified
May 2, 2021 / Apr 1, 2023

Doctor’s answers

Question
Answer Header & Date
Answer Snippet
I lost 135lbs and I want a smooth, flat stomach. Tummy tuck? Panniculectomy?
I lost 135lbs and I want a smooth, flat stomach. Tummy tuck? Panniculectomy?
Jun 14, 2021
Hello kaciqp,

Thank you for your questions and photos. Based on your photos I would recommend a Tummy Tuck procedure instead of a Panniculectomy. The Tummy Tuck procedure would allow for muscle tightening to you give you more of waste along with a flat stomach. I would recommend an in person consultation to discuss liposuction and fat transfer if you are considering a BBL procedure. Please call us for a consultation, we look forward to hearing from you.

Thank you!

Will I need a TT or lipo to get rid of the pouch or if lipo might be enough?
Will I need a TT or lipo to get rid of the pouch or if lipo might be enough?
Jun 10, 2021
Hello NewBodyforMama,
Thank you for your question and photos. Depending on your goals and the time you have for recovery there are two options.
You can do liposuction and follow up with EmSculp NEO treatment to not only increase the reduction process by 30% but also increase muscle toning by 20% which is very helpful after having babies.
A tummy tuck procedure can also be recommended with muscle repair. Leaving you with a flatter tummy.
In person consultation are very important we look…
What type of breast lift procedure would you recommend? I’m interested in breast lift with no implant
What type of breast lift procedure would you recommend? I’m interested in breast lift with no implants.
May 13, 2021
Thank you for your question and photos. Based on your photos I would recommend a Stage 3 Lift (also known as an anchor lift). In person consultation are always recommended for accuracy and to help answer questions. Thank you.
Follow-up question: To lift or not?
Follow-up question: To lift or not?
May 13, 2021
Thank you for your question and photos. A decision of a lift or not will depend on the “look” you are trying to achieve. For example if you decide to go with a 500cc implant or higher I would recommend no lift. If you go with an implant lower than 500cc I would recommend a Stage I lift (Areolar Lift) along with the augmentation. In person consultation are always recommended. Thank you
Are my breasts saggy or tubular? Is there a way to fix them without an implant?
Are my breasts saggy or tubular? Is there a way to fix them without an implant?
May 13, 2021
Thank you for your question and photos. Based on your photos yes, you are able to lift your breast with out the use of implants. I would suggest a stage 3 breast lift (also known as the anchor lift). In person consultation are always suggested for accuracy and to be able to answer all your questions.
Am I good candidate for a lip lift?
Lip Flip!
Sep 17, 2020
Hi there,

Dr. Chao here. You should consider a non-surgical lip flip using botox. It will make your upper lip appear larger and reduce the distance from lip to nose without the need for surgery.

I am 5’3, 117lbs. After 3 kids and breastfeeding my breasts are non existing. Just skin and a nipple.
Helping you find your ideal breast size
Sep 8, 2020
Hi there, Dr. Chao here.

Deciding on your ideal breast size is a matter of the look you would like to achieve and finding the most comfortable size, shape and placement to fit your body frame and lifestyle. Finding a reputable plastic surgeon that you can trust is also an important factor to avoid complications which are common with women like yourself who have low body fat % and a small frame. I would recommend finding photos of breasts you would like to have and then scheduling a virtual…

Breast augmentation/ what do I need to achieve this look?
Your look is achievable with overfilled, under the muscle, silicone “gummy bears”
Aug 24, 2020
Hi there,
Dr. Chao here. We can create this look for you by using an overfilled implant inserted under the muscle. Your current breast tissue will give you a natural look that sits on your chest as shown in your inspiration photos. You should be most concerned that whomever does your implants focuses on the ideal placement so that you don’t end up with too much separation between the breasts, especially when not wearing a bra.
Wishing you lots of success with your surgery and achieving…
After recent weight loss, coupled with time, I’ve noticed loss of volume. Breast implants, breast lif
Breast lift and implant
Aug 17, 2020
Dr. Chao here,
The longest lasting results for your body will be to combine a breast implant with breast lift. This will allow you to go larger and create a more attractive shape for your physique.
Our practice uses computer generated simulations so that patients can see different sizes and shapes on their body. This allows you to see various results for yourself.
Hope this is helpful and good luck to you!
What breast implant size would you recommend for someone who’s small/underweight?
Please schedule a virtual consultation and consider all of your implant options
Aug 10, 2020
Dr. Chao here,
Since every body is unique, you’re most likely to achieve your ideal result by doing a consultation with a licensed specialist in breast implants. For example, at my offices our software can give you a simulated result of how your figure will look with different breast implant types, sizes and shapes. It seems that you are looking for the most dramatic result in terms of size, given your frame. In a virtual consultation or in-person consultation, your doctor should be able to…
I have saggy skin after pregnancy. Who do I go to to fix this?
Saggy Skin
Jul 22, 2020
Hello Dr.Chao here, thank you for your question.
So this can be fixed in the office under local anesthia.
Thank you for your time,
James J. Chao, MD. FACS
Is EnBloc really necessary if you don’t have BIA ALCL?
Full Enbloc Procedure
Jul 22, 2020
Hello, Dr. Chao here, thank you for your question.
So when choosing to perform an enbloc procedure compared to a capsulectomy procedure, the Physician and patient should sit down and discuss this in detail based off of the patients concerns.
Implant Removal With Capsulectomy:
This procedure consists of removing the breast implant, as well as removing the capsule surrounding the implant. This procedure can be a partial capsulectomy or total capsulectomy. A total capsulectomy involves…
How long after a hysterectomy is it okay to have breast explant surgery?
When can I have surgery?
Jul 22, 2020
Hello Dr.Chao here,
Thank you for your question. I reccommened you should wait approxtiamtly 3 months to 6 months (depeding on how your healing) to have your breast implant removal surgery.
Thank you for your time,
James J. Chao, MD, FACS
My nipples are huge post BA, my doctor said silicon settles in 3 months and they will go down, is my
Post Operative Breast Augmentation
Jul 22, 2020
Hello Dr.Chao here,
Thank you for your question. So with implants placed under the muscle it may take 2-3 months for the implants to suttle into your breast pocket. With the help of breast massage this can help with the setttlement of the breast implants.
When the breast implants do seetle then there appears to more roundness towards the bottom of the breast and nipple may move up.
Thank you for your time,
James J. Chao, MD, FACS
Adviseable to do liposuction before having children? photos)
Lipo before pregnancy versus after
Jul 20, 2020
Lipo will give you the result and aesthetic you’re trying to achieve. Non-invasive options or additional procedures may be necessary after you give birth, but given that you diet and exercise well, you may not need it. Find a board certified plastic surgeon who specializes in this procedure and in mommy makeovers like myself or other doctors in your area so that you are able to achieve a longer lasting result.

Latest Before And After Photos

Last updated on 11/22/2023