Dr. A. John Vartanian

Discover the training, values, and vision behind every refined result. This page offers a closer look at the surgeon, artist, and educator behind one of Southern California’s most trusted facial plastic surgery practices.

About Dr. A. John Vartanian, M.D.

Dr. A. John Vartanian is a nationally recognized facial plastic surgeon specializing exclusively in advanced surgery of the face. Known for his subtle, natural outcomes, Dr. Vartanian has been featured in the media for his innovative work and specialized expertise.

He lectures nationally and publishes widely in scientific literature. Dr. Vartanian is a respected educator who trains physicians at UCLA and USC medical centers. His credentials include board certification by the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and the American Board of Otolaryngology—Head and Neck Surgery.

“If you look at it just right, the face tells you what it wants.”

— Dr. John Vartanian

Biography and Academic Honors

Born in Chicago and raised in Southern California, Dr. Vartanian graduated with honors from Flintridge Preparatory School before earning a B.S. in Biology at the University of California, Irvine. His early interest in science led to numerous research awards, including the Excellence in Undergraduate Research Award.

While completing medical school at the Chicago Medical School, he earned both a medical degree with honors and a master’s in physiology. He was awarded multiple research grants during his training and developed a virtual reality model of nasal anatomy, now used in physician training.

Elite Training and Surgical Background

Dr. Vartanian’s rigorous academic path includes twelve continuous years of post-college medical education. He completed his head and neck surgery residency and general surgery internship at the University of Illinois at Chicago Medical Center.

He was then selected for one of the country’s most competitive fellowships: the UCLA-affiliated facial plastic and reconstructive surgery program under Dr. Frank Kamer in Beverly Hills, recognized as the highest level of training in this field.

A Philosophy Grounded in Customization and Natural Aesthetics

The Art of Listening and Tailoring

A deep commitment to listening is at the core of Dr. Vartanian’s practice. Each consultation is personal, in-depth, and designed to uncover aesthetic goals and identity-driven motivations. His care model is boutique by design: no handoffs, no junior surgeons—just direct, customized care from the surgeon himself.

Facial Plastic Surgery as Design

This guiding principle of natural-appearing results by design underscores Dr. Vartanian’s belief that facial surgery should quietly elevate a person’s appearance without revealing a surgical touch. His work draws from his photography and visual arts background, where balance, proportion, and restraint are key.

Evidence-Based, Artistically Executed

Dr. Vartanian combines time-tested techniques with advanced technologies like computer imaging to provide realistic, personalized treatment plans. He performs every procedure himself—from consultation through post-op—and chooses techniques designed to enhance beauty, support function, and provide long-term reliability.

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Mentorship and Advanced Surgical Training

At the University of Illinois, Dr. Vartanian trained with some of the country's most respected facial plastic surgeons, including Drs. Eugene Tardy, Dean Toriumi, and Gary Burget. His two-time win of the Resident Research Award and a patient care commendation further reflect his early excellence.

He later completed the highly competitive facial plastic surgery fellowship at the Lasky Clinic with Dr. Kamer, one of only a few fellowships approved by the American Academy of Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery. His education also includes advanced training in laser treatments and non-surgical cosmetic techniques.

Educator, Innovator, and Humanitarian

A Leader in the Field

For three years, he was co-instructor for the Advanced Nasal Diagnosis course at the Annual Meeting of the American Academy of Otolaryngology – Head & Neck Surgery.

Today, Dr. Vartanian is regularly consulted for his expertise in rhinoplasty and aging face surgery. As assistant clinical professor at UCLA and clinical instructor at USC, he remains committed to educating the next generation of surgeons.

A Human-Centered Mission

Dr. Vartanian offers services pro bono at West-LA VA/UCLA and LA County-USC Medical Centers, where he performs complex reconstructive cases for underserved patients. He has also been a co-investigator in multiple FDA studies on aesthetic injectables, reflecting a lifelong dedication to safe, evidence-based care.

A Life of Precision and Perspective

In addition to his clinical expertise, Dr. Vartanian brings a rare sense of visual intelligence to his work. His background in photography and painting deepens his appreciation for quiet, proportionate, and enduring beauty. When not in surgery, he enjoys surfing, sports, visual arts, and traveling—a balance that mirrors his professional philosophy: intentional, human, and refined.

Explore his approach to facial aesthetics—and discover what it means to achieve natural results, by design.

Ready to Schedule Your Consultation?

If you’re considering facial plastic surgery, choosing the right surgeon is the most important step. Dr. Vartanian offers a thoughtful, individualized experience grounded in expertise, artistry, and trust. Whether you’re exploring rhinoplasty, facial rejuvenation, or a subtle refinement, we invite you to schedule a consultation and discover what’s possible when every detail is designed with you in mind.