Dr. Jeffrey Ridha’s services range from rhinoplasty—nose jobs—to hand surgery for rheumatoid arthritis, a disease that can cause severe inflammation in the joints and deform fingers. He performs reconstructive and cosmetic surgery at 83 Railroad Place, where he has had a practice for the past year. 

Some of his commonest procedures are breast and abdominal surgery, such as breast augmentation and tummy tucks, he said. Less invasive choices such as Botox injections and fillers are also gaining in popularity.

Dr. Ridha’s practice also includes an assortment of medical aesthetic services performed by his lead aesthetician, Jennifer Camper. These include facials, chemical peels and laser treatments.

“A good plastic surgeon will work with patients, meeting with them several times before any procedures are performed,” Dr. Ridha said. “I want to be sure the patients are doing this for themselves, not for anyone else. Their safety and well-being come first.”

Patients want to look as good as they feel, he said. They want to look youthful and refreshed, not necessarily young. He encourages natural aging, embracing one’s age while showing minimal signs of harsh aging. Appearing healthy and feeling contented helps patients’ outlook on life.

“Considering the emotional maturity of patients is important,” Dr. Ridha said. “We very seldom will do cosmetic surgery on anyone under age 18, unless the circumstances are unique.”

Accidents often cause children to need reconstructive surgery, however. Jumping on the bed and running into the corner of coffee tables are two danger zones, and so are older siblings and dog bites. 

American children have ready access to health care, but abroad, in the poorer countries, finding a plastic surgeon is more difficult for kids in need. Dr. Ridha has visited countries such as Ecuador on mission trips to work with children who have cleft lips and palates. He also did burn reconstructions.

“It was the most rewarding experience I’ve ever had in medicine,” he said. “I want to do more of these trips. As I’m of Iraqui descent, I would like to go to the Middle East to help children injured in the war there. Burns are a big issue.”

During his career, Dr. Ridha has worked to increase knowledge and appreciation of the plastic and reconstructive surgery field, an area of medicine slightly tarnished by urban legends and reality TV. Through his practice, his charitable work and his medical writing, and by example, he strives to give his field the respect it deserves.

“Integrity is so important,” he said. “I hold myself to the highest safety and ethic standards. Each surgery I perform is the most important thing I do.”

--Jennie