As a 10-year nominee, Dr. Salvatore Pacella was chosen by San Diego Magazine and the San Diego County Medical Society as a ‘Top Doc” in plastic surgery. Each year, the magazine compiles a “best of the best” list from over 1,300 board-certified physicians in San Diego from 71 specialties. This list is based on several criteria, including patient recommendations as well as fellow surgeon and peer nominations. As a two-time honoree in plastic surgery, Dr. Pacella’s expertise is not only respected by patients, but by other specialists and doctors.
As a firm believer in living a healthy lifestyle, Dr. Pacella was recently quoted in a November 2014 article in the U-T San Diego. Local experts in skin and nutrition discuss the link between “superfoods”, antioxidants, water and nutrients and their role in maintaining the youth and longevity of your skin.
Dr. Pacella is a frequent contributor to U-T San Diego’s Personal Health section. In October 2013, he discussed the benefits of fat transfer in both cosmetic and reconstructive plastic surgery. This latest technique in plastic surgery utilizes fat harvested from one’s own body transfer to another area. It can be used in the face, breast or body to improve appearance or correct deformity.
In April 2013, Dr. Pacella was recently featured in the U-T San Diego as an expert providing instruction and advice on biologic mesh technology in abdominal wall reconstruction and complex hernia repair. Every year, approximately one million patients undergo midline incision surgeries, about 10% of which later result in a hernia due to weakened muscle and tendon connections. An extensive follow-up surgery is usually required to correct the deformity. In standard hernia repair techniques with prosthetic mesh, many patients run the risk of further damage including infection, pain or recurrence of the hernia. Dr. Pacella has been an advocate of utilizing advanced repair techniques and newly developed biologic mesh, which not only restores natural muscle connections, but also dramatically decreases complications. While very few surgeons in the nation utilize this reconstructive surgical option, Dr. Pacella performs the procedure locally in San Diego County.
To read more about his successful experiences with this technique, click here.
In 2012, the U-T San Diego recognized Dr. Salvatore Pacella as a recipient of the Health Hero Award for his work with Fresh Start Surgical Gifts. Given each year by the San Diego County Combined Health Agencies, the award recognizes dedicated members of the San Diego community for their dedication to the disadvantaged. When he’s not in his Scripps Clinic office, Dr. Pacella donates his time and skills to give young kids a second chance at a normal and successful life through Fresh Start Surgical Gifts, a nonprofit organization that provides donated reconstructive plastic surgery for children affected by birth defects, abuse or disease. With their helping and caring hands, Dr. Pacella and the volunteer doctors, nurses and healthcare personnel of the Fresh Start team have given countless children the confidence to overcome adversities about their physical appearance and see their bright future ahead.
For three consecutive years, the Patient’s Choice Awards have recognized Dr. Salvatore Pacella for his outstanding patient reviews. Thousands of patients provide feedback about their experiences with a doctor on PatientsChoice.org and Dr. Pacella was among a handful selected to receive this esteemed honor. In order to qualify, a physician must have an active license, no sanctions and consistently high ratings throughout the year. As a resource for finding quality medical care, the site features Dr. Pacella for his exceptional bedside manner, courteous staff, and dedication to meeting personally with each patient to determine the appropriate procedures and follow-up. Winning the Patient¹s Choice Awards in 2009, 2010 and 2011 reflects not only his spectacular reviews, but also his expertise in the field of plastic surgery and ability to improve the lives of patients throughout San Diego, CA.
