Gilbert W. Lee MD, FACS

Discover excellence in aesthetic plastic surgery with Dr. Gilbert Lee, the distinguished plastic surgeon voted "Top Plastic Surgeon" by the San Diego County Medical Society for an impressive 16 consecutive years.

Patients choose Dr. Lee for his unmatched reputation, extensive expertise, and consistent delivery of unrivaled results. With over 29 years of experience, Dr. Lee is dedicated to changing lives by enhancing both inner and outer beauty.

With over 20 years of experience, a medical degree from the University of California, San Diego (UCSD), and surgical training at Washington University, the birthplace of plastic surgery, Dr. Lee is fulfilling his passion for helping men and women reach their full potential.

Experience Transformation with Dr. Gilbert Lee

As one of San Diego's top plastic surgeons, Dr. Lee is committed to helping patients look and feel refreshed, youthful, and naturally beautiful. His exceptional abilities and commitment to staying at the forefront of innovative techniques position him as a leading figure in the field.

Commitment to Excellence and Innovation

Dr. Lee's commitment to patient satisfaction and professional education has elevated him to the pinnacle of plastic surgery in San Diego. A pioneer in scarless surgery, Dr. Lee introduced the groundbreaking EmbraceRF Procedure, showcasing his forward-thinking approach to traditional surgeries. His Changes Rapid Lift, a deep plane facelift, is performed in the office under local anesthesia, providing enhanced comfort, reduced downtime, and quicker recovery. In 2016, Dr. Lee achieved a significant milestone by pioneering Scarless Surgery using BodyTite and FaceTite radiofrequency-assisted lipolysis (RFAL).

This innovative approach allows Dr. Lee to perform procedures such as face and neck lifts, arm lifts, tummy tucks, or thigh lifts without leaving visible scars.

Dr. Lee regularly educates physicians on new injection techniques and has been featured on The Doctors television show, where he demonstrated Bellafill®, a permanent filler. He is also a recognized Liquid Face Lift Association (LFLA) expert, using the patient’s own fat to create extraordinary results with the Changes Liquid Facelift.

A Leader in Non-Surgical and Laser Techniques

Beyond surgical expertise, Dr. Lee leads in non-surgical and laser techniques. Changes Plastic Surgery & Spa offers advanced treatments like Fraxel and Lumenis Total FX, Morpheus 8, ICON, and Excel V+ lasers to address various skin conditions, providing comprehensive solutions for sun damage and aging.

As the plastic surgery industry rapidly evolves, Dr. Lee and the whole Changes team stay at the forefront, ensuring excellent patient care while embracing the best of future possibilities.

Honors & Awards

Dr. Lee's exceptional contributions have garnered numerous accolades, establishing him as one of the best plastic surgeons in San Diego. Some of his notable awards include:

Top Doctor in Plastic Surgery (San Diego County Medical Society) for 16 consecutive years.
Best of North Coast Readers Poll, Best Cosmetic Surgery.
Castle Connolly Regional Top Doctor
Real Self Top Contributor and Top Doctor
San Diego A-List Award for Best Medical Spa
Teacher of the Year Award UCSD Plastic Surgery Department

Schedule Your Consultation Today

See Dr. Gilbert Lee to discover your options for transforming your body and confidence with artistry and precision. Contact us online today to schedule a consultation and discover the best version of yourself.

Gilbert W. Lee, MD Curriculum Vitae

Academic Title/Office Held

Assistant Clinical Professor of Plastic and Reconstructive
Surgery, non-salaried, U.C San Diego,
President, San Diego Plastic Surgery Society
2008
Vice President, San Diego Plastic Surgery Society
2007
Treasurer/Secretary San Diego Plastic Surgery Society
2006
Chief of Plastic Surgery, Sharp Memorial Hospital, San Diego, CA

Board Certification

Diplomate, American Board of Plastic Surgery, November 1996
Diplomate, American Board of Surgery, June 2, 1992, #37336
Certificate of Added Qualification in Surgery of the Hand, AmericanBoard of Surgery, August 19, 1996, #212
Diplomate, National Board of Medical Examiners, July 1, 1987, #321560

Academic Background

Washington University Medical Center, St. Louis, MO

Plastic Surgery Residency
July 1, 1991, to June 30, 1993
Training Director: Dr. Paul M. Weeks
Plastic Surgery Administrative Chief Resident
July 1, 1992, to June 30, 1993
Fellowship in Hand, Microvascular, and Peripheral Nerve Surgery:
July 1, 1993, to June 30, 1994
Traveling Fellowship to UCLA and Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taiwan

University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, NY

General Surgery Chief Resident
July 1, 1990, to June 30, 1991
General Surgery Residency Training Director: Dr. Seymour I. Schwartz
July 1, 1986, to June 30, 1991

University of California, San Diego School of Medicine

Degree: Doctor of Medicine, June 1986. Graduated with Highest Honors.
Medical School
September 1982 to June 1986
Traveling Clerkships at University of London, University of Edinburgh, UCSF, Stanford University

University of California, Davis

Degree: Bachelor of Arts in Biochemistry
June 1982
U.C. Davis Regents Scholarship (Highest scholarship awarded by the University)
Graduated with Highest Honors
Dean’s Honor Roll
Member of PHI KAPPA PHI Honor Society
Awarded American Heart Association Cardiovascular Research Fellowship
Member U.C.D. Men’s’ Volleyball Team

Certification/Membership

Member, American Society of Plastic Surgeons
Fellow of the American College of Surgeons
Member, American Medical Association
Member, California Medical Association
Member, California Society of Plastic Surgeons
Member, San Diego County Medical Association
Member, San Diego Plastic Surgery Society
Ultrasound Assisted Liposuction Certified, April 19, 1997
Endoscopic Plastic Surgery Certified, 1996
LASER Certification: CO² Laser, Erbium, Ruby Hair Removal Laser, KTP Laser, Nd: Yag
Laser, Fraxel, FX CO2.
California State Medical License #G63907

Hospital Affiliations

Sharp Memorial Hospital, San Diego, CA
Sharp Mary Birch Hospital, San Diego, CA

Dr. Lee's Patients Speak: Read the Reviews

Ari, BRENDA, Dr. Lee, Dr. Rossi and the ENTIRE staff is top notch hands down best customer service and care you will ever find in the cosmetic surgical and beauty industry! I am always treated like a friend by all at Changes and I won’t go anywhere else simply because of the 5 star quality of superb treatment I always receive anytime I walk through their doors. Dr. Lee completely changed my life for the better and brought my 4 kids happy Mama back to life! I can’t thank them all enough!!! - Amanda O.

A wonderful friend, whom, I totally trust, referred me to Dr Lee, She said she would trust Dr Lee with anything! Never heard anything like that from her before. Now I understand why! I am extremely grateful because Dr Lee is Totally Amazing, He is a artistic genius, but also warm, caring and thoughtful. Listens and hears your concerns. Then he goes the extra mile to get the very best results. I have seen many of plastic surgeons in my life, and even the best, do not come close! He is far above the Best. He and his staff are in harmony on everything they do. They are all professional, caring, thoughtful, and very detail oriented. They make you very comfortable and you feel as though you're their only patient. They make what might be a nervous experience for some, into a lovely walk in the park.. I was totally amazed at the difference it made in my experience. So happy!!! - Michelle L.

Dr. Lee is absolutely the best in the business! I had a breast lift/ augmentation as well as a lower blepharoplasty. They both came out fantastic! Not only is his bedside manner phenomenal, he’s also very patient, kind, and concerned. The staff at changes plastic surgery and spa are always available and knowledgeable. This place is top-notch and I wouldn’t go anywhere else! - Beverly J. 'Dana

Dr. Lee and his team are exceptional! From the moment you walk in the door you can tell they all love what they do. Everyone is extremely personable, and make you feel right at home and well taken care of every step of the way. I highly recommend Dr. Lee and his office for any cosmetic needs, as you will have peace of mind being in the best hands in all of So Cal! - Erin B.

I've had a procedure at Changes before - a lower face lift 4 years ago, and I returned to have my eyes done. Best decision ever! I really like my face now after experiencing 'middle aged sagging' before my surgeries. There's nothing to fear about the 'plastic surgery' experience here. The staff is very warm and welcoming. Dr. Lee is approachable and understanding while also being extremely skilled regarding surgery. What I especially like about Dr. Lee is his ability to help me look refreshed and natural and not pulled or overdone (my worst fear). He carefully explained everything, set realistic expectations, and was always very calm and reassuring. This was a great experience once again. - Anonymous

Dr. Lee is a genius! I am very blessed to know Dr. Lee. When there are other doctors --- dermatologists, ophthalmologists and others who could not figure out an issue -- Dr. Lee was able to identify and correct the problem issue at one glance!! He and his attentive staff are there for you and all of their patients. - Dianne Y

Change’s Plastic Surgery &Spa has a very caring and Knowledgeable staff, from the moment you walk into the office you feel comfortable and at ease. Dr Lee is very informative and answered all my questions in a very simple and honest way, he pays close attention and cares what is important to you. I would highly recommend Dr Lee and Change’s Plastic Surgery & Spa - Kim D.

I am so happy that I found Dr Lee is the best plastic surgeon that I have ever met, When I have questions he always has a great bed side manner. Dr Lee is very talented with his skills on any procedures he offers. He is so smart and caring as well. I recommend Dr Lee for any beauty solution you are looking for. I’m happy with every procedure he has performed. - Debbie R.

Without question the most professional and knowledgeable group in Southern California. And Dr Lee is second to none in every possible category. Definitely worth the wait to see this group!!!! - David W.

Dr. Lee & his staff are fantastic! So professional & courteous and more importantly knowledgeable. Every time my husband and i go in for procedures or a follow up we leave confident in our decision to have chosen Dr Lee & Changes! - Tabitha W.

Dr. Lee is compassionate and an expert in his field. He is the best! - Tyler J.

Dr. Lee did magic on my face and neck. I will be back for more. - Jeanette S.

Dr. Lee truly is the best of the best! ‘Precision with artistry’ is exactly what he offers and I can’t be any happier with my outcome. What he gave me is even better than what I’ve asked for as he has an eye for what is considered beautiful. I feel so proportionate and beautiful, and am patting myself on the back for entrusting him completely with all the decision making - that is exactly what you’re paying for! If you’re getting plastic surgery in San Diego he is THE DOCTOR you want to go with. There’s a reason he’s received so many awards and he really does live up to his accolades. I highly recommend him from my amazing personal experience! - Anonymous

So happy with Dr Lee and the amazing work he did! Last June I had a fat transfer from the flank area. My breast implants were removed, I had a lift and then the transfer. A year later I can say it is absolutely perfect! I did a ton of research and am so pleased I trusted Dr Lee with my surgery. He is truly an artist! - Gina V.