The Art of
Natural Beauty.
Board-certified precision meets an artist’s eye, shaped by dual fellowship training and nearly two decades of practice in San Diego.
Professional Memberships & Affiliations
About
Surgeon. Scholar.
Artist.
Dr. Salvatore Pacella brings a rare combination of academic distinction, surgical expertise, and aesthetic artistry to every patient relationship. He believes that exceptional care extends beyond technical excellence—it requires thoughtful listening, individualized attention, and a deep understanding of each patient’s goals.
As a Full Professor of Surgery and Division Head of Plastic, Reconstructive & Cosmetic Surgery at Scripps Clinic Medical Group, Dr. Pacella is recognized as a leading authority in facial, eyelid, and reconstructive surgery. His expertise has earned recognition not only throughout San Diego and Southern California, but nationally and internationally, where he is regularly invited to teach and lecture on advanced techniques in aesthetic and reconstructive facial surgery.
His philosophy is simple: the best result should never look like surgery—it should look like the very best version of you.
Full Professor of Surgery, Division Head of Plastic, Reconstructive & Cosmetic Surgery at Scripps Clinic
Credentials
Board-Certified
Plastic Surgeon
20+ Years
Experience
20,000+
Procedures
Specialties
Every Procedure. Every Detail.
Eyes
Blepharoplasty, brow lifts, and periorbital rejuvenation that restore youth while preserving your natural expression.
Face
Facelifts, rhinoplasty, and facial contouring sculpted to harmonize with your individual features.
Breast
Augmentation, reduction, lift, and reconstruction, each procedure tailored to your body and your goals.
Body
Liposuction, tummy tucks, mommy makeovers, and transformative body contouring with natural-looking results.
“My goal is not to change who you are. It is to reveal the very best version of who you already are.”
Dr. Salvatore Pacella, MD · MBA · FACS
Patient Reviews
What Patients
Are Saying.
“Dr. Pacella is the rare surgeon who combines technical brilliance with a genuine understanding of what patients want. My results look completely natural.”
Sarah M.
Del Mar, CA
“From the first consultation to my six-month follow-up, I felt heard, respected, and expertly cared for. The results speak for themselves.”
Jennifer L.
La Jolla, CA
“His MBA background means the entire practice runs like a luxury experience. His MD means the results are outstanding. I could not ask for more.”
Rebecca T.
Carmel Valley, CA
“I had been considering a facelift for years and was nervous about looking overdone. Dr. Pacella listened carefully and delivered exactly what I hoped for.”
Christine R.
Rancho Santa Fe, CA
“The level of care before and after surgery was exceptional. Dr. Pacella and his team made me feel like a priority every single step of the way.”
Amanda K.
San Diego, CA
“Incredibly skilled surgeon with a warm bedside manner. My rhinoplasty results are better than I ever imagined. I feel like myself, just better.”
Lauren S.
Del Mar, CA