Hector Salazar-Reyes, MD, FACS
Plastic Surgeon
Having dedicated 17 years of his life to achieve the best medical training, Dr. Salazar’s philosophy is centered around providing beautiful results safely and ensuring each and every patient feels well cared for from their first appointment to their last.
In addition to being an American Board Certified Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Salazar is a member of the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS), a prestigious organization that is highly selective with its membership. Only plastic surgeons who demonstrate a high level of skill, experience, and expertise in aesthetic plastic surgery and cosmetic medicine are inducted into ASAPS.
Dr. Salazar is also a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons, an active member American Society of Plastic Surgeons, American Board of Plastic Surgery Maintenance of Certification Program, California Society of Plastic Surgeons, San Diego Plastic Surgery Society and the American Medical Association.
251
July 21, 2026
Recovery: A Complete Guide to the Second Half of Your Surgery
Monique Ramsey gathers years of recovery answers into one guide that follows the whole arc — the mindset going in, the first hard days, and what healing actually feels like procedure by procedure. Along the way the LJCSC surgeons and team get specific: why a breast augmentation under the muscle aches more than one placed over it, how long eyelid swelling really lasts, when it's safe to drive again, what a 360 liposuction recovery involves with drains and compression, and the clean-sheets-and-no...
248
June 30, 2026
After the Skinny Shot: What to Do Next
The number on the scale went down, so why does everything still feel soft, loose, and unfinished? Monique Ramsey curates the best moments from conversations with the LJCSC team to answer the question that lands in consultations almost every day. Janelle Robinson, who leads the practice and has used the medication herself, explains who's actually showing up for the medical weight loss program at LJCSC — and it's not people with 50 pounds to lose. Dr. Gerald Haas educates us about what the medic...
246
June 16, 2026
Why Working Out Can Make “Man Boobs” Worse
There's a reason a lean, sculpted chest can still carry a stubborn bit of fullness right behind the nipple — and it's the one spot a thousand reps will never flatten. Dr. Hector Salazar-Reyes explains why glandular breast tissue in men sits exactly where it's hardest to hide, and why building up the muscle around it can make it stand out even more. Across the conversation with hostess Monique Ramsey, Dr. Salazar walks through the “polo shirt test” that tells most men whether they're a candidate...
243
May 28, 2026
Meet Dr. Hector Salazar-Reyes
At ten or eleven years old, Dr. Hector Salazar watched his grandmother step off a plane looking dramatically younger than she had a month earlier. She had quietly traveled out of town for cosmetic surgery, healed through the swelling and bruising in private, and come home presentable. That moment redirected a kid who, a few years earlier, had been caping the family dog like a bullfighter — toward seventeen years of training that would make him a board-certified plastic surgeon. Monique talks w...
234
March 24, 2026
Lipo vs. Tummy Tuck: Which Will Actually Flatten Your Stomach?
Lipo or tummy tuck—how do you know which one you need? San Diego plastic surgeon Dr. Hector Salazar and Monique talk through the difference between liposuction and a tummy tuck, and why the right choice isn’t always obvious. Skin quality, muscle...
232
March 10, 2026
How Today’s HD Lipo Is Not What It Was Five Years Ago
Dr. Salazar returns to share how HD Lipo has evolved over the last five years and why realistic expectations are just as important as technology. Learn about HD Lipo recovery timelines, the importance of compression, how long it takes to see results, and why choosing an experienced plastic surgeon is critical for outcomes that look natural. From candidate selection to long-term maintenance, hear Dr. Salazar’s honest look at what HD lipo can and can’t do. Links Read more about San Diego plasti...
229
Feb. 17, 2026
Plastic Surgery Doesn’t End When the Procedure is Over
Surgery doesn’t end when the procedure is over—and that’s the part most people don’t hear enough about. San Diego plastic surgeon Dr. Hector Salazar explains why what happens after can be just as important as the surgery itself. Follow-up visits are a critical part of healing safely and confidently, not just a formality. He walks through what to expect during recovery, why open communication with your surgeon matters, and which warning signs should never be brushed off. Dr. Salazar shares how ...
216
Oct. 28, 2025
What Happens When Plastic Surgeons Work Together Will Surprise You
Most plastic surgeons work alone, but Dr. Hector Salazar shares what it’s like to be part of something different: a six-surgeon practice built entirely on collaboration and patient-centered care. At LJCSC, individuality and artistry meet shared values and consistency, creating a team dynamic that’s as rare as it is rewarding. Dr. Salazar explains how this model benefits both surgeons and patients. Each doctor brings a unique perspective, yet all share the same foundation of safety, ethics, and ...
215
Oct. 14, 2025
The Truth About Lipedema
Lipedema is one of the most misunderstood conditions women face. It shows up as uneven fat in the lower body that doesn’t respond to diet or exercise, often leading to frustration, pain, and a feeling of being dismissed by healthcare providers. Beyond the physical symptoms, the emotional toll is huge. Once treated, many women celebrate simple wins like finally zipping up a pair of boots. San Diego plastic surgeon Dr. Hector Salazar and massage therapist Linda-Anne Kahn explain what lipedema re...
203
July 22, 2025
Is Your Breast Implant Ruptured? The Easiest Way To Check Your Implants Whenever You Want
Since silicone gel breast implant ruptures are silent and don’t cause symptoms, they can go undetected for a very long time. Even though an MRI is recommended to check for ruptures three years after surgery and every two years after that, most people don’t do it because MRIs are pricey and not exactly convenient. High-definition ultrasound is a more accessible, affordable alternative to an MRI. Routine ultrasounds every 2 to 3 years are a smart way to stay ahead of any issues with your breast ...
194
May 13, 2025
What NOT To Do During Recovery After Plastic Surgery
Not sure you even want plastic surgery because the whole recovery thing feels like a mystery? We totally get it, and we’re demystifying it for you. Knowing what to expect during recovery makes all the difference. The truth is, those final results you’re after can take weeks, months, or even longer to really be final. San Diego plastic surgeon Dr. Hector Salazar breaks it down, from why swelling happens, to the importance of lymphatic drainage, compression garments, drains, and why getting up a...
188
March 18, 2025
The Cosmetic Procedures for Men That No One Will Notice (But Everyone Will See)
Men don’t always talk about plastic surgery, but social media has made it more accepted. San Diego plastic surgeon Dr. Hector Salazar breaks down the history of male cosmetic procedures, the most popular treatments, and how society perceives men who do them. For facial rejuvenation, Dr. Salazar highlights a high-impact combo for men who want to avoid facelift scars: eyelid surgery and the T-Z Plasty. This technique tightens the central neck (goodbye, turkey gobbler) without a long incision. He ...
184
Feb. 11, 2025
Stop Believing These Hair Transplant Myths
Losing your hair feels like a ticking clock, making you check the mirror constantly. Fears about hair transplant surgery might hold you back from taking action, but San Diego plastic surgeon Dr. Hector Salazar is here with the truth. He explains when it’s actually time to worry and how he creates a natural-looking hairline with modern hair transplant techniques. Using FUE technology, Dr. Salazar precisely removes individual follicles for seamless, natural results, leaving outdated strip methods...
177
Dec. 17, 2024
Why Scars are a Trade-Off You Won’t Regret
Plastic surgeons adeptly minimize scarring with small, precisely hidden incisions, but there’s always a balance between scar visibility and achieving the best results. San Diego plastic surgeon Dr. Hector Salazar-Reyes explains this balance, sharing insights on incision techniques, healing, and the importance of proper care before and after plastic surgery. Find out: How long it takes for scars to mature and what the healing process looks like Tips for boosting healing and achieving your bes...
175
Nov. 26, 2024
Deck the Halls and Save $500 on Cosmetic Surgery: Our Holiday Treats for You!
With some amazing members of the LJCSC Dream Team, Monique & friends chat about the heartwarming traditions, favorite dishes, and unforgettable memories that make the holidays so special. From putting up Christmas trees extra early to savoring unique family recipes, you’ll hear all about how the LJCSC team embraces the season with their families. They dive into everything from matching Christmas pajamas and sentimental ornaments to the joy of giving and reflecting on the meaning of the holidays...
174
Nov. 19, 2024
Top 3 San Diego Hotels for Cosmetic Surgery Recovery
Picking the right place to recover after plastic surgery is key to a smooth, stress-free experience. Whether you're traveling from out of town or just need a peaceful spot away from home, Dr. Salazar talks through some of the best hotel options in La Jolla. He explains why staying close by can make a big difference in both comfort and safety. Find out: Which surgeries require a longer recovery time Helpful tips for planning both your procedure and stay Our top 3 nearby hotels for post-surge...
171
Oct. 29, 2024
Introducing the Concierge Package: Same Award-Winning Care, Now with VIP Perks
At La Jolla Cosmetic Surgery Centre, we know your cosmetic journey is personal, and every step matters. That’s why we offer two options: the Signature and Concierge experiences. Think of them as business class and first class—both elevated and never ordinary. No matter which you choose, our award-winning care stays the same. With 36 years of experience and tens of thousands of 5-star reviews, find out what the LJCSC Signature Experience includes at no extra cost, from online tools to help you ...
163
Aug. 20, 2024
Areola Reduction: Plastic Surgeon Explains The Surgery for Smaller Nipples & Areolas
You can have a nipple or areola reduction on its own, but these procedures often go hand-in-hand with breast reductions, lifts, or implants. Dr. Salazar breaks down the difference between your nipples and areolas, how surgery can make them smaller, and what to expect with scars and aftercare. Find out if you can breastfeed after a nipple reduction, whether men can get these procedures, and what accessory nipples, supernumerary nipples, and ectopic nipples are and how we remove them. Learn mor...
159
July 23, 2024
The Best Plastic Surgery Procedures For Your 20’s
Your 20’s are a time for adventures, not wrinkles. But we see plenty of young people wanting to enhance their natural beauty. Plastic surgeon Dr. Hector Salazar shares the best procedures for this age group. From breast implants to liposuction to addressing facial features that have always bugged you, hear Dr. Salazar’s expert advice for the best ways to love the skin you’re in during this decade. Links Meet San Diego plastic surgeon Dr. Hector Salazar-Reyes Listen to our episodes with Dr....
156
July 2, 2024
3 Potential Breast Augmentation Complications (& How Plastic Surgeons Prevent Them)
Complications from breast implant surgery are rare, and surgeons keep a close eye on patients to catch and prevent any issues. LJC plastic surgeon Dr. Hector Salazar takes us through the most common complications: capsular contracture, implant rupture or deflation, and the need for revision surgery. Dr. Salazar explains what these complications are, how to tell if they’re happening to you, and the steps he takes before, during, and after surgery to minimize risks. Find out if it’s safe to get...
145
April 2, 2024
Why Your Belly Button is the Most Important Part of a Tummy Tuck
Before having a tummy tuck, one of the biggest worries our patients have is “what is my belly button going to look like?” No one wants an ugly belly button, or for it to be a dead giveaway that they had work done. Because so much extra skin is removed during tummy tuck surgery, the original belly button often goes away with it. But during a tummy tuck using the BellaButton technique, Dr. Salazar creates a beautiful, natural-looking belly button. As the pioneer of this technique, Dr. Salazar ex...
142
March 7, 2024
Breast Augmentation Recovery: Plastic Surgeon Explains What To Expect
It might be your first time getting a breast augmentation, but it’s by no means our first time! From your first phone call to your pre-op appointment, we tell you exactly what to expect so there are no surprises. Filling us in on all things breast surgery, Dr. Hector Salazar shares all there is to know about breast augmentation recovery, from how long you’ll need to be away from work and the gym to how much pain you'll be in and how it’s managed. Links Read more about San Diego plastic surgeo...
141
March 5, 2024
HD Lipo: What is it & who is it for? Plastic Surgeon Explains
Sharing his unique expertise with HD Lipo, Dr. Hector Salazar explains how this technique eliminates stubborn areas of fat, and highlights your natural muscle definition. Combining his artistic eye with his rich knowledge of anatomy, Dr. Salazar uses this specialized liposuction technique to precisely sculpt your body following the natural lines of your musculature. Find out all there is to know about the HD lipo experience, including best candidates and BMI requirements, how VASER liposuctio...
133
Dec. 19, 2023
4 Procedures That Will Change the Way You Think About Face Lift Surgery
n this showcase episode, Monique highlights four small but mighty facial rejuvenation treatments you’ll want to add to your wish list. To showcase these powerful options, surgeons Dr. Kiersten Riedler, Dr. Johan Brahme, Dr. Jason Pozner, and Dr. Hector Salazar share their expertise covering eyelid surgery, endoscopic brow lift, Ellacor microcoring for skin tightening, the T-Z Plasty, and submental platysmaplasty (neck lift). With the right early interventions, you may end up delaying the need ...
119
Sept. 12, 2023
Bye-Bye, Turkey Neck: What Is The T-Z Plasty and Who Is It For?
Although there are multiple options available for rejuvenating the neck, Dr. Salazar considers the T-Z Plasty to be the ultimate weapon against the “turkey gobbler.” For patients who specifically want to address excess skin and fat in their neck, but aren’t ready for a full face and neck lift, the T-Z Plasty is the preferred technique. Dr. Salazar answers our biggest questions about this not often discussed, yet powerful neck lift surgery, including: Who are the best candidates? Where are in...
116
Aug. 22, 2023
Making Polo Shirts Great Again With Male Breast Reduction Surgery
From feeling self-conscious in polo shirts to wearing shirts at the beach, many men search for ways to get rid of those man boobs and puffy nipples. Multiple procedures are available for helping men sculpt a flatter chest. Dr. Salazar dives into the different surgical options of male breast reduction procedures, including: Traditional liposuction High-definition liposuction Surgical removal of fat and glandular tissue Combination of liposuction and surgical removal Breast amputation (most ...
97
April 4, 2023
Phoebe Davis Takeover: Mistakes to Avoid if You’re Considering Breast Augmentation
Two months ago, Phoebe Davis had breast augmentation surgery with Dr. Hector Salazar. She’s back and she loves her results so much that she’s taking over the podcast to interview her favorite doctor. Phoebe hits Dr. Salazar with the tough questions to help others avoid common mistakes when getting breast augmentation, or any cosmetic surgery. She shares the best and worst things to do if you’re considering getting breast implants. Find out what made Dr. Salazar and Phoebe’s doctor-patient rela...
Guests: Hector Salazar-Reyes, MD, FACS , Phoebe Davis
78
Nov. 29, 2022
East vs. West: Comparing Breast Surgery Size Trends with Plastic Surgeon Dr. Anna Steve
NYC cosmetic breast specialist Dr. Anna Steve joins LJC plastic surgeon Dr. Hector Salazar to debate and discuss the similarities and differences between plastic surgery trends on the East and West Coasts. Ten years ago the trend was “go big or go home,” but today things have changed. The doctors cover the hottest topics surrounding breast surgery, from which brand of implants they prefer to use in breast augmentation to what they see for the future of breast surgery trends. Learn more about D...
Guests: Hector Salazar-Reyes, MD, FACS , Anna Steve, MD
74
Nov. 1, 2022
Preventing and Treating Common Breast Augmentation Complications
Although rare, all surgery has risks. Dr. Hector Salazar walks us through the possible complications surrounding breast implants, including capsular contracture, implant rupture, and the need for revision surgery. Dr. Salazar shares the steps you can take to have a healthy, safe, complication-free recovery. Hint: you’ll need to ditch the treadmill and heavy weights for at least three weeks. Read our blog about why medical tourism can be risky if complications arise during surgery recovery Get...
72
Oct. 18, 2022
Breast Augmentation: Plastic Surgeon Explains Why The Natural Look is Back
For those considering breast augmentation, the first question is usually “what size implant is right for me?” Trends are changing again as the oversized look dwindles in popularity and the natural look is back. Dr. Salazar brings us a full rundown on all things breast augmentation, from what scars will look like and what recovery is like to how long they’ll last and how often it’s recommended to switch out your breast implants. Read more about breast augmentation and see our before and after p...
59
July 14, 2022
Plastic Surgeon Breaks Down the Breast Implant Black Box Warning
This year, the primary concern of women researching breast implants became safety instead of cost. LJC’s own Dr. Hector Salazar-Reyes joins us to share his thoughts on breast implant safety and walk us through the FDA’s updated labeling requirements, known as the “black box warning.” With his unique perspective as a champion of patient safety, Dr. Salazar shares the real history of how patients, doctors, and industry teamed up to drive these important changes in patient education. If you’re con...
38
Jan. 25, 2022
What Losing 100+ Lbs Does to Your Body (& How Plastic Surgeons Can Fix It)
There’s nothing quite as magical as the elation of someone who’s lost weight and then had a complete body lift. LJC plastic surgeon Dr. Hector Salazar-Reyes is here to address all the complexities surrounding this life-changing intervention. Those who have had success with weight loss can sometimes feel further from their body goals due to skin laxity issues. The goal of this episode is to demystify what’s really happening underneath the surface of the skin and share why proper planning, prepar...
15
Aug. 3, 2021
Plastic Surgeon Explains HD Lipo: The Hi Def Approach to Body Contouring
Dr. Hector Salazar shares his unique expertise with HD Lipo, a specialized liposuction technique for sculpting the body in incredible detail following the natural lines of your musculature. He covers the full HD Lipo experience, including BMI range requirements and exceptions, typical recovery and post-op pain management, and the importance of compression garments. Find out how the artistry of the surgeon impacts your results and learn: Why you can’t safely combine HD Lipo with a tummy tuck in...
9
June 22, 2021
SmartGraft: Not Your Grandpa’s (or Grandma’s) Hair Plugs
What is SmartGraft and how does it work? Plastic surgeon Dr. Hector Salazar discusses how SmartGraft is different, explains the problems with older methods, and helps us understand how he keeps the newly transplanted hair from looking fake or obvious. Dr. Salazar covers all the most common questions people have about SmartGraft, including where does the hair come from? Does SmartGraft hurt? What can you do and not do after a hair transplant? Can women also do hair transplants? Read more about ...