Facial Plastic Surgeon
John Hilinski, MD
Harvard Medical School Educated
Double Board Certified in Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery as well as Head and Neck Surgery.
Fellowship Trained in Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery.
A San Diego native, Dr. John Hilinski was pleased to return here and establish his facial plastic surgery practice. Dr. Hilinski attended Harvard Medical School in Boston, Massachusetts. After graduation, he completed a General Surgery internship followed by a Head and Neck Surgery residency at the University of California, San Diego (UCSD) Medical Center. Throughout his residency, Dr. Hilinski focused his efforts exclusively on surgery of the face and neck.
Such specialty training and experience provided him an unparalleled foundation to become a facial plastic surgeon. Dr. Hilinski was chosen for a prestigious Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery fellowship sponsored by the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. He completed his fellowship in Chicago, Illinois under the direction of internationally renowned facial plastic surgeon Dean M. Toriumi, M.D. In conjunction with his training, Dr. Hilinski served as a Clinical Instructor in the Division of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery at the University of Illinois, Chicago College of Medicine. During his fellowship, Dr. Hilinski learned the latest advancements in facial plastic and reconstructive surgery, encompassing all aspects of cosmetic facial enhancement. In particular, he received advanced training in rhinoplasty and revision rhinoplasty technique.
Dr. Hilinski is “double board certified” in Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery as well as Head and Neck Surgery. This places him in unique company among only a few plastic surgeons in the region that have dedicated expertise and qualifications to perform facial cosmetic enhancement. In addition, he is a member of the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery as well as the American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery. Dr. Hilinski has published numerous journal articles and book chapters on a variety of topics in facial plastic surgery. This includes an upcoming instructional guide for surgical residents on advanced techniques for scar revision and two recent chapters on rhinoplasty that appear in the online Plastic Surgery textbook for Emedicine World Medical Library. In addition to his publications, Dr. Hilinski has been invited to lecture at several national surgical conferences. Beyond his position as a staff surgeon at the prestigious Scripps Clinic, he also holds an appointment as Clinical Instructor in surgery at UCSD School of Medicine.
In his spare time, Dr. Hilinski enjoys spending time with his beautiful wife and wonderful kids.
Plastic Surgeon vs. Facial Plastic Surgeon
Cosmetic facial procedures can be performed by both general plastic surgeons and facial plastic surgeons. While each type of surgeon can be qualified to provide aesthetic results for procedures like facelift surgery, rhinoplasty, and forehead lift surgery, there are key differences between the two that may indicate their level of surgical expertise. The main distinctions revolve around the surgeon’s foundational training and how much of their practice focuses on facial plastic surgery.
In regards to educational background, a board-certified general plastic surgeon typically attends medical school, completes two to three years of general surgery training, and finishes another two to three years of plastic surgery residency. They may also undergo a fellowship to further specialize in a specific area. A board-certified facial plastic surgeon, on the other hand, will usually attend medical school, train in a one-year general surgery internship, and complete four years of otolaryngology (head and neck surgery) residency training. They may also complete a fellowship in facial plastic and reconstructive surgery.
Both types of board-certified surgeons are often able to provide satisfactory outcomes for patients seeking facial plastic surgery. However, while general plastic surgeons divide their time to operate on several areas of the body—such as the face, breast, and body—facial plastic surgeons dedicate their practice to the aesthetic improvement of only the face, head, and neck. Despite whether you choose a general or facial plastic surgeon, you should do your research and visit multiple surgeons to help you decide which doctor you feel most comfortable with.
Why Choose a Board-Certified Facial Plastic Surgeon?
Board certification is one of the most important credentials to look for when researching facial plastic surgeons. Depending on the board, this high level of qualification typically shows the doctor has undergone the required training in facial plastic surgery, has demonstrated skill in their clinical experience, and continues to uphold the rigorous standards set by the certifying board. Dr. Hilinski is board-certified by two organizations: the American Board of Otolaryngology (ABO) and the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (ABFPRS).
To receive ABO certification, a doctor must pass a qualifying exam, and only then are they eligible to take the oral certification exam. After successfully passing both parts of the examination process, the facial plastic surgeon will be granted certification. To be ABFPRS-certified, a doctor must have completed an approved residency in either otolaryngology or plastic surgery and be certified in one of these specialties through the American Board of Medical Specialties. They must have also presented two years of clinical experience for peer review (with reports of at least 100 facial plastic surgery procedures), passed the two-day exam process, be properly licensed, and abide by the ABFPRS Code of Ethics.
Although board certification is considered a standard of surgical excellence, and can be a great indicator for a facial plastic surgeon’s credibility, there are other factors that should be considered when finding the best facial plastic surgeon for your specific needs.
Choosing the Best Facial Plastic Surgeon for You
With the large number of facial plastic surgeons in practice today, it can be difficult to choose the best one to help you address your cosmetic concerns. To aid in your research, the following guidelines can help you determine whether a facial plastic surgeon is qualified to perform your procedure:
- Ask people you trust for referrals. Word of mouth can be a great way to find a facial plastic surgeon you may connect with. Whether you ask a friend who underwent surgery or perhaps another one of your doctors, getting a referral from someone who has a relationship with a surgeon can help you discover reputable professionals.
- Find a facial plastic surgeon who is certified by a respected board, such as the American Board of Otolaryngology or the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. These surgeons tend to be accomplished professionals within their specialty.
- Make sure they operate out of an accredited surgical facility, if not a hospital. The Hilinski Ambulatory Surgery Center (ASC), for instance, is a private, on-site ambulatory surgical center accredited by the American Association for Accreditation of Ambulatory Surgery Facilities (AAAASF). This indicates Dr. Hilinski follows the strictest safety standards to ensure patients receive optimal care.
- Choose a facial plastic surgeon who is experienced at the procedure you are considering. It can also help to look at before and after photos of their patients to see the types of results they have helped others achieve.
- Find a physician who is transparent about the pros and cons of procedures. Reading reviews and patient testimonials can help you get an idea of how a surgeon approaches consultations and whether they have the patient’s best interest at heart.
While these may be helpful as you research facial plastic surgeons, there are several factors you should consider when determining if a specific doctor is right for you. In the end, it is vital that you feel comfortable with the surgeon you choose and are fully confident in your decision to move forward with them.
When you schedule a consultation with Dr. Hilinski, you may discover that he provides an extremely honest view of what you can expect from surgery. This is because Dr. Hilinski prioritizes patient well-being and will never recommend a procedure unless it is the best possible solution for a patient’s individual concerns. His professional opinion is based on years of experience in facial plastic surgery, as well as his genuine interest in helping patients achieve their aesthetic goals.
Dr. John Hilinski’s Background
Medical Education
- Medical Doctorate (M.D.)
Harvard Medical School
Boston, MA
Surgical Training
- General Surgery Internship
University Of California, San Diego Medical Center
Department of General Surgery
San Diego, CA - Head and Neck Surgery Residency and Chief Residency
University Of California, San Diego Medical Center
Division of Head and Neck Surgery, Department of Surgery
San Diego, CA - Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Fellowship
University Of Illinois, Chicago Medical Center
Chicago, IL
Research Training
- National Institutes of Health Research Fellowship
University Of California, San Diego Cancer Center
Division of Head and Neck Surgery
San Diego, CA
Clinical Appointments
- Staff Surgeon
Sharp Memorial Hospital
San Diego, CA - Staff Surgeon
Scripps Clinic And Green Hospital
Division of Head and Neck
La Jolla, CA - Clinical Faculty Instructor
Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
Division of Head and Neck Surgery
University Of California, San Diego Medical Center
San Diego, CA - Clinical Faculty Instructor
Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
Department of Surgery
Veterans Administration Medical Center
La Jolla, CA - Clinical Instructor (Past)
Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery
University Of Illinois, Chicago Medical Center
Chicago, IL
Political Appointments
- Appointment by California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger
California Health Facilities Finance Authority
Sacramento, CA
2007-2008
Memberships / Affiliations
- The Rhinoplasty Society
- California Society of Facial Plastic Surgery
- American Academy Otolaryngology- Head and Neck Surgery
- American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
- San Diego County Medical Society
- California Medical Association
- Association for Medical Ethics
Presentations
- “Polymethylmethacrylate Injections: My Long-term Experience.” Advanced Aesthetics &
Cosmetic Dermatology Los Angeles, The Ritz Carlton Marina Del Rey, CA, January 27-29, 2017. - “Facial Contouring with Poly-L-Lactic Acid.” Advanced Aesthetics & Cosmetic Dermatology Los
Angeles, The Ritz Carlton Marina Del Rey, CA, January 27-29, 2017. - “Nasal Tip Rhinoplasty: Common Problems and My Evolving Approach.” Aesthetic Surgery
Grand Rounds, University of California, San Diego, Division of Plastic Surgery, August 24, 2016. - “Peri-Oral Cosmetic Enhancement: My Approach.” The 3rd Ultimate Aesthetic Training Workshop,
The Four Seasons Hotel, Beverly Hills, CA, May 14, 2016. - “Facial Contouring with Sculptra.” The 3rd Ultimate Aesthetic Training Workshop, The Four Seasons
Hotel, Beverly Hills, CA, May 14, 2016. - “Bellafill Facial Reshaping.” The 3rd Ultimate Aesthetic Training Workshop, The Four Seasons Hotel,
Beverly Hills, CA, May 14, 2016. - “Use of Blunt-tipped Cannulas for Injectable Fillers.” The Ultimate Aesthetic Training Workshop,
The Luxe Hotel, Beverly Hills, CA, October 10, 2015. - “Facial Reshaping with Poly-L-Lactic Acid.” The Ultimate Aesthetic Training Workshop, The Luxe
Hotel, Beverly Hills, CA, October 10, 2015. - “Use of Polymethylmethacralate in Facial Contouring.” The Ultimate Aesthetic Training
Workshop, The Luxe Hotel, Beverly Hills, CA, October 10, 2015.
Editorial Review
- Reviewer for JAMA Facial Plastic Surgery, 2007-present.
- Reviewer for Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, 2014.
- Reviewer for International Journal of Medical Sciences, 2011.
Book Chapters
- Hilinski JM, Cohen SR. Soft Tissue Augmentation with Artefill. Facial Plastic Surgery. Thieme
Medical Publishers, Volume 25 (2): 114-119, 2009. - Hilinski JM, Cohen SR. Volumetric Use of Injectable Fillers in the Face. Techniques in Aesthetic
Plastic Surgery Series: Facial Rejuvenation with Fillers. Eds. Cohen and Born. Elsevier Ltd, 2009. - Hilinski JM, Toriumi DM. The Ageing Face. Scott Brown’s Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck
Surgery. 7th Edition. May 2008.
Publications
- Collins J, Harvey J, Hilinski JM, Reconstructing the Gauge Earlobe Defect, JAMA Facial Plast Surg.
Published online December 18, 2014. - Hilinski JM, Beros A, Watson D. Spreader grafts in rhinoplasty, Plastic Surgery, Emedicine World
Medical Library, Emedicine.com, May 2008. - Hilinski JM, Revis DR, Seagle MB. Skin Resurfacing: Chemical Peels, Otolaryngology and Facial
Plastic Surgery, Emedicine World Medical Library, Emedicine.com, May 2008. - Mobley SR, Hilinski JM, Toriumi DM. Tissue adhesives in facial plastic and reconstructive surgery,
Facial Plastics Clinics of North America, 10(2002): 147-154. - Hilinski JM, Kim T, Harris JP. Post-traumatic pseudocerebrospinal fluid rhinorrhea, Otology and
Neurotology, September 2001; 22(5). - Beros A, Hilinski JM, Moe KS. Gracilis muscle free tissue transfer, Otolaryngology and Facial Plastic
Surgery, Emedicine World Medical Library, Emedicine.com, June 2001. - Byrne P, Hilinski JM, Hilger P. Facial nerve repair, Otolaryngology and Facial Plastic Surgery,
Emedicine World Medical Library, Emedicine.com, May 2001.
- Hilinski JM, Moe KS. Vertical dome division in rhinoplasty, Otolaryngology and Facial Plastic
Surgery, Emedicine World Medical Library, Emedicine.com, June 2001. - Johnsson A, Zeelenberg I, Min Y, Hilinski J, Berry C, Howell SB, Los, G. Identification of genes
differentially expressed in association with acquired cisplatin resistance, British Journal of Cancer,
2000 Oct; 83(8): 1047-1054. - Wong JG, Hilinski J, Los G. Analysis of SSH libraries generated from ATRA treated UMSCC10b cells,
Journal of Investigative Medicine, vol. 47 (2): 61A, Feb 1999. - Hosseinzadeh M, Hilinski J, Turner WJD, Harris JP. Meniere disease caused by an anomalous vein
of the vestibular aqueduct, Archives of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, 1998; 124: 695-
698. - Gliklich RE, Hilinski JM. Longitudinal sensitivity of generic and specific health measures in chronic
sinusitis, Quality of Life Research, 4:27-32, 1995.
Articles and Publications
Soft Tissue Augmentation with ArteFill
Dr. Hilinski recently coauthored a book chapter focusing on use of Artefill for volume enhancement of the face.
Facelift Surgery for the Ageing Face
Dr. Hilinski and coauthor Dr. Dean Toriumi have recently published their book chapter on the ageing face and facelift surgery.
Mini-Lift Offers Major Results
Ever give your face and neck a little tug while looking in the mirror? Like what you see? Maybe not, but many accept what their reflections reveal as their destiny.
The Verafil Lip Enhancement
For years now, women have been searching for the ideal procedure to provide them with fuller, plumper, shapelier lips.
Surgical Tissue Adhesives
Surgical tissue adhesives continue to evolve as an important technology for the facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon. Twelve years ago there was little routine use of these…
Examining The Doctors
Today it seems as though there is a medical or dental treatment to suit just about every need or desire. But even if procedures are FDA-approved and ensure low risks…
Curriculum Vitae (CV)
Form more information on Dr. John Hilinski’s education, qualifications and experience, view his curriculum vitae (CV).