“Helping people rediscover — or sometimes experience for the first time — confidence and joy in their bodies is an immensely gratifying experience. For me, this work is personal, and I appreciate every patient who lets me be a part of their journey.”
- 20+ Years Plastic Surgery Experience
- Triple Board Certified
- Privileges at Providence Saint John’s
- Liposuction Specialist
Michael Alexander Giuffrida, MD
After spending most of my life on the East Coast, I can’t tell you how excited I am to begin a new practice as a plastic surgeon in Santa Barbara, CA, I’m a great lover of outdoor activities, so living in California is absolutely a dream come true.
More recently, I joined the Active Staff at Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital. Although my passion is aesthetic surgery, I participate in Trauma Emergency Room on-call at Cottage Health Medical Center and I am on the volunteer medical staff of UCLA in Los Angeles California, volunteering for the Venice Family Clinic.
I received my undergraduate degree in biology from Boston College, graduating magna cum laude in 1985. I went on to receive my medical degree from Tufts University School of Medicine, then completed a residency in general surgery in Pennsylvania. I returned to Boston in 1994 to begin my plastic surgery residency at the Lahey Clinic Medical Center, and I never looked back.
In Bucks County, Pennsylvania, I became the very first plastic surgeon to specialize in aesthetic surgery, receiving board certification from the ABPS (American Board of Plastic Surgery). I then became an active member of both the ASAPS (American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery) and the ASPS (American Society of Plastic Surgeons). I went on to build a successful practice, accumulating 20 years of plastic surgery experience. During my 20 years of practice, I became the medical director of my own AAAASF (American Association for Accreditation of Ambulatory Surgery Facilities) certified operating facility and received special training as an inspector for the AAAAASF, accrediting free standing operating rooms nationally. I specifically sought additional training because patient safety is my number one priority.
In 2006, I built my very own medical spa and acted as medical director. At this facility, I incorporated a holistic approach to plastic surgery and skincare by integrating vitamins, nutrition and lymphatic massage into treatments in an environment that fostered well-being. I look forward to bringing this holistic, wellness-centered approach to my patients in Los Angeles
I have experience with literally every type of cosmetic surgery, but my passion lies in body contouring and treating skin damage. I love my work as a Santa Barbara plastic surgeon. Helping people rediscover — or sometimes experience for the first time — confidence and joy in their bodies is an immensely gratifying experience. For me, this work is personal, and I appreciate every patient who lets me be a part of their journey.
In my spare time, you’re most likely to find me at the yoga studio in Santa Barbara. I’m an avid yoga practitioner and recently completed my 200-hour teacher training through the Yoga Alliance. I also enjoy surfing, cycling, and spending time with my two sons. If you have any advice on great hikes around California, let me know, because I fully intend to see every inch of this beautiful state!