Meet Dr. Rachel H. Park
A Personal Journey in Plastic Surgery
Thank you for considering me and my practice for your care. Whether you're exploring options for reconstructive surgery, a cosmetic procedure, or something in between, I want you to know you’re in a space where your story, your identity, and your goals truly matter.
I became a plastic surgeon because, at its core, this field is about healing—about helping people feel whole again and truly comfortable in their own skin. I believe that everyone deserves that feeling, and my job is to walk with you toward it, every step of the way.
My journey to becoming a plastic surgeon began in Seoul, South Korea, where I was born and raised before immigrating to the United States. I was initially inspired watching my father work as a plastic surgeon, who helped improve many people’s lives. Outside of work, he provided free surgeries to orphans and regularly took my brother and I to help at one of Korea's first orphanages that my great grandfather founded shortly after the Korean war. This personal experience has shaped my deep commitment to creating a practice where individuals from all backgrounds feel valued, respected, and understood.
Education & Training
I completed my medical training at the University of Rochester, where I earned both my undergraduate and medical degrees as part of the Rochester Early Medical Scholars (REMS) program. This highly competitive program allowed me to not only explore many of my academic interests including chemistry and studio arts, but also to study abroad in Cape Town, South Africa for a semester. I completed my medical school training with distinction in research, focusing on both clinical and basic science projects. I then went on to complete my integrated plastic and reconstructive surgery residency at the University of Virginia.
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My plastic surgery training was completed during a rigorous six-year residency at the University of Virginia Medical Center, where I received comprehensive training on both aesthetic and reconstructive procedures. I had the honor of serving as Chief Resident my last year. During my time at UVA, I helped develop and implement the resident microsurgery curriculum, enhancing the training experience for future surgeons. In addition, I had a privilege to travel to Seoul, South Korea and learn both reconstructive and Asian cosmetic procedures from some of the master surgeons at the Severance Hospital and various private practices in Gangnam. I was able to learn first-hand from leading South Korean plastic surgeons about various aesthetic procedures of the face including face/ neck lift, rhinoplasty, and blepharoplasty.
Research & Publication Achievements
My dedication to advancing the field of plastic surgery is reflected in my extensive research background and publication history. I've authored more than 20 peer-reviewed articles in prestigious journals such as Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Annals of Plastic Surgery, and Journal of Reconstructive Microsurgery.
My commitment to excellence has been recognized through numerous awards, including the 2024 PSTM Best Abstract Presentation in Gender Affirmation Surgery, the 2024 VASPS Commonwealth Cup Competition, and first place in the Southern Region Burn Conference Oral Presentation Competition. I was also inducted into Phi Beta Kappa and received several prestigious academic honors, including the University of Rochester Chemistry Department Award and the Janet Howell Clark Prize.
Global Health Commitment
Plastic surgery has given me the opportunity to make a difference beyond my practice. In 2024, I participated in a global health mission to the Philippines, where our UVA plastic surgery team performed cleft lip and palate repairs and burn reconstruction surgeries for patients who otherwise might not have access to such care. These experiences continually remind me of the transformative power of plastic surgery and reinforce my commitment to serving diverse communities. Global health and community outreach is a continued interest and passion of mine.
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My Philosophy on Aesthetic Surgery for Asians
Asian aesthetics require a nuanced understanding that goes beyond simply applying Western beauty standards to different faces. Subtle differences in anatomy—such as eyelid structure, skin thickness, epicanthal folds, nasal bony and cartilaginous structures, and fat distribution—mean that what creates harmony and balance in one ethnic group may not in another. As a plastic surgeon who understands these fundamental distinctions, I offer an individualized approach to aesthetic surgery for Asian patients. My goal is not to Westernize but to enhance and refine each patient’s natural features, respecting their heritage while achieving the look they envision. This is especially true in blepharoplasty and rhinoplasty, where the artistry lies in creating a natural, elegant crease that complements the patient’s unique anatomy and facial proportions rather than following "cookie-cutter" approach.
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At the heart of my practice is the belief that everyone deserves to feel comfortable and confident in their own body. I take the time to listen to your goals and concerns, educate you about your options, and develop a personalized treatment plan that aligns with your vision. My aim is not just to change how you look, but also to enhance how you feel, so that you can feel more like yourself than ever before.
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I'm honored by the trust that my patients place in me during their transformative journeys, and it would be a great privilege to be part of yours as well.
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I look forward to meeting you soon.
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Warmly,
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Rachel H Park