How to Actually Vet a Plastic Surgeon (Beyond Marketing)
If you’re a patient or advising one, here’s what matters:
Consider the following:
- Board Certification by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS). ABPS certification indicates completion of rigorous residency training and passing comprehensive oral and written examinations, with renewal every 10 years and a commitment to safety, ethics and continuing education. This differentiates from “cosmetic surgeons” who may lack formal plastic surgery training.
- Years of experience.
- Fellowship-trained.
- Experience with your specific procedure (not just “cosmetic surgery”).
- Before/after gallery that reflects your aesthetic desires and shows consistent, natural results.
- Facility accreditation (AAAASF/AAAHC).
- Peer-reviewed journals.
- Personal rapport and honesty in consultations.
- Patient reviews Facebook, Google and website testimonials- Transparent, unfiltered reviews.
What to Consider when Choosing a Surgeon
When choosing a plastic surgeon choose an American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) certified plastic surgeon evaluated
strictly on credentials such as board certification, surgical training, clinical experience, and peer respect-excluding all marketing-driven awards, media mentions, or paid recognition.
Many of the awards and features like RealSelf, Top Doctors, NewBeauty “Top Doctors”, “Top Doctors in America,” and even your local Magazine’s Best Of can be paid for, sponsored, or heavily influenced by marketing rather than purely merit. These badges and titles offer shortcuts to trust. Patients rarely know how to evaluate:
- Scar quality
- Revision rates
- Complication rates
- Artistic result (beyond what’s shown in before/afters)
How they can be misleading
It’s marketing plain and simple. Look beyond the badge
- Paid placements or advertising relationships (NewBeauty, RealSelf “Top Doctors”, Top Doctors in America) can be purchased through membership and volume of reviews, not skill. often require a media fee or advertising relationship.
- “Best of” magazine awards are typically reader votes or advertiser-driven, not based on outcomes.
Why Dr. Timek Stands Out Among the Best Plastic Surgeons in Grand Rapids, Mi.
Dr. Ewa Komorowska‑Timek, MD (commonly known as Dr. Timek) is recognized as one of the top ABPS-certified plastic surgeons in Grand Rapids, MI. With over 20 years of experience, Dr. Timek’s strong blend of world-class training, research-driven innovation, microsurgical & fat grafting expertise, surgical innovation, academic publishing, one of a few Microsurgeons in Michigan, and proven patient care outcomes positions her among the elite ABPS-certified surgeons in Grand Rapids.
Bottom line:
Dr. Timek isn’t just “qualified”—she’s one of the rare plastic surgeons who combines science, artistry, and ethics at the highest level. If you’re looking for refined, natural aesthetic results, or complex reconstructive care, she’s one of the top choices in Michigan.
World Class Training
- Medical School: Graduated from Stanford University School of Medicine-one of the top medical schools in the world.
- Residency: Completed general and plastic surgery training at Loma Linda University.
- Fellowship: Completed a microsurgery fellowship at Stanford, with specialization in highly intricate reconstructive techniques like DIEP flap breast reconstruction. Followed by academic faculty roles at Stanford.
Very few plastic surgeons in Michigan—and even fewer in private practice have this level of academic pedigree and fellowship-level microsurgical training. Training quality is directly tied to surgical skill.
Academic & Scientific Leadership
- Associate Editor of the Annals of Plastic Surgery, one of the two leading independent peer-reviewed journals in the field.
- Regularly presents at national and global plastic surgery and microsurgery meetings.
- Widely published work on fat grafting, microsurgery, and natural aesthetic outcomes.
- International authority on breast reconstruction, and fat grafting.
- Contributor to plastic surgery journals and global education.
- Served as Faculty at Stanford University teaching residents and fellows of the Stanford University Plastic Surgery Residency Program.
- Currently serves as Faculty of the Integrated Plastic Surgery Residency Program of Michigan State University College of Medicine.
This shows she’s not just practicing medicine—she’s shaping its future through peer-reviewed contributions.
Peer-reviewed contributions signals authority and clinical reputation.
Innovative Fat‑Grafting Research Leader-Expertise in Fat Grafting
- Founded the state-of-the-art Center for Excellence in Fat Grafting, reflecting her advanced expertise in optimizing fat transfer procedures to the face, breasts, and body.
- With over 50+ publications she is considered an academic leader and has delivered presentations at regional, national and global meetings. Her peer-reviewed research details techniques for improved fat graft survival and aesthetic outcome.
- Specializes in facial, breast, and body fat transfer, offering natural, long-lasting results with a low risk profile.
- Uses evidence-based techniques to maximize fat survival and aesthetic quality.
Patients seeking natural rejuvenation or non-implant breast augmentation, and Brazilian Butt Lifts often choose her for this reason.
Advanced techniques equal better outcomes, and faster recovery.

Scope of Specialized Surgery
Expert in Facial and Body Microsurgery
Dr. Ewa Komorowska-Timek stands out as Grand Rapids’ premier plastic surgeon for deep plane and traditional facelift procedures. As a board-certified plastic surgeon and fellowship-trained microsurgeon, she brings a rare combination of surgical precision, aesthetic vision, and deep anatomical knowledge to every facial procedure.
Dr. Timek’s Signature Hourglass Tummy Tuck featuring Lipo 360, and High-Definition Liposuction is redefining what’s possible for transformative, natural-looking results. Dr. Timek combines artistry with surgical precision to sculpt beautifully balanced, hourglass figures for women seeking a truly refined aesthetics.
Dr. Ewa Komorowska-Timek is a nationally and internationally recognized expert in fat grafting. Her innovative techniques for optimal fat grafting “take” have been presented on the global stage. Her expertise spans across post-mastectomy fat grafting, correction of contour irregularities, Natural Breast Augmentation (autologous fat transfer), gluteal augmentation (BBL), and facial volume restoration.
Dr. Timek is one of the few cosmetic surgeons in the Nation with advanced microsurgical training. This highly specialized skill enables her to perform precise aesthetic facial and body procedures, as well as complex autologous reconstructions, such as DIEP, SIEA, and free flap procedures.
Dr. Timek offers a wide range of both reconstructive and aesthetic procedures, including:
- Microsurgical breast reconstruction focusing on complex breast procedures including
- DIEP, Tram, SIEA and LICAP flap techniques (muscle-preserving, natural tissue-based reconstruction). Lymphaticovenous Bypass, Lymphnode transferes and Lipedema correction procedures.
- Cosmetic surgery: Specializes in the more advanced Deep Plane Facelift, Face lift, in Fat Transfer, Breast Augmentation/Lift/Reduction, Brazilian Butt Lift via fat transfer, and Facial Fat Grafting, Body Contouring, High-Definition Liposuction, Lipo 360, Tummy Tuck, Arm Lift, Thigh Lift Rhino/Septoplasty (Nose Surgery), Otoplasty, Eyelid Surgery, and Lipedema treatment.
Microsurgery-Precision matters most in complex and delicate procedures.
Patients seeking natural looking Deep Plane Facelifts and Traditional Facelifts often choose her for this reason.
Surgical Precision + Artistic Eye
Combines her microsurgical training (fine, high-precision technique) with aesthetic sensitivity resulting in:
- Natural-looking facelifts with structural fat grafting.
- Smooth, symmetrical breast reconstructions or revisions.
- Soft, feminine body contouring with minimal scarring.
- Artistic finesse.

Respected by Peers & Loved by Patients
Dr. Timek is consistently recognized as:
- Being meticulous, compassionate, and honest.
- Taking time to educate patients and set realistic expectations.
- Delivering subtle, balanced, non-overdone results.
Accredited Facility and Patient Safety
- Operates out of a Quad A Select accredited ambulatory surgery facility, recognized for meeting stringent safety standards for outpatient surgical care enhancing patient safety and procedural quality.
- Offers outpatient surgery in a controlled, private, and safe setting.
Patients receive hospital-grade care in a boutique environment, minimizing infection risk and improving recovery.
Face Book, Google reviews and other Health platforms consistently highlight her compassionate bedside manner, attention to detail, and high satisfaction levels in reconstructive and aesthetic cases.
Deep-plane facelift with fat transfer reviews:
“I had a deep plane face lift with fat transfer … Dr. Timek’s extensive training intrigued me … I am so happy I did.”
“I am using my husband’s google account for my review. Last July 2024, I received a deep plane facelift from Dr. Timek plus a brow lift. I am so happy with the results. Dr. Timek was so informative and patient with my questions. I am so happy with the results and glad I did it. The aftercare was so good, and the office staff were kind and caring. Carla does the facials and other facial procedures that help the healing process. She knows her stuff and truly cares. If you are considering a face lift or any other beauty procedure don’t hesitate with Dr. Timek and her office staff! They are excellent!”
“Dr. Timek is extremely competent, courteous, and professional yet very caring. Her staff are also friendly, warm and competent. I had a face-lift, and I am very happy with the result one week afterwards. Ladies, just go for it! You’ll be glad you did. And guys, there’s absolutely no reason you shouldn’t look every bit as young and attractive as your significant other! What are you waiting for?”
Breast Procedure Reviews:
“Being middle aged and a former nursing mother to three children, I was unsure what I needed to get my breasts back to where I use to be, so I could simply fit into my clothes properly again. I wanted to look as natural as possible without looking like I was trying to be “young”. The whole team was very kind, professional and informative on my case and gave me ample time and education to decide on the best route to reach my goals. Enhancement is a huge decision. I had moderate implants with fat grafting and look and feel incredibly natural. My confidence is back, and my results are absolutely beautiful for my body frame! If you ever have to have any work done, I would highly recommend Advanced Plastic for your needs”.
“I am a breast cancer survivor and Dr. Timek, and her team have meant so much to me. After a double mastectomy, she transformed me into a woman who has a chest once again.
Trying to feel normal after losing a part of yourself is not easy. Dr. Timek is so kind, extremely knowledgeable and innovative, and I am so thankful she has been a part of my journey.
As a patient and a person, I literally trust Dr. Timek with my life.
I referred (another) friend with breast cancer to Dr. Timek. I sat in the room today during their consultation. Dr. Timek’s kindness, compassion, and encouragement were so beautiful to see as a support person”.
International Recognition
Global Speaker & Surgical Innovator
Dr. Ewa Komorowska-Timek, MD, – Advancing Reconstructive Surgery Worldwide
Dr. Ewa Komorowska-Timek is internationally and globally recognized for her contributions to plastic and reconstructive surgery. Her expertise in lymphatic microsurgery, breast reconstruction, and fat grafting techniques have made her a sought-after speaker at global medical conferences. As a presenter and panelist, Dr. Timek shares cutting-edge surgical advancements with leading specialists around the world.
Recent International Speaking Engagements
Lymphaticovenous Microsurgery in Cancer-Related Lymphedema– Wroclaw, Poland Presenter & Panelist
2nd Conference of the Lymphological Section of the Polish Society of Phlebology “Lymphedema in Oncology – Prophylaxis and Treatment”
Dr. Komorowska-Timek presented advanced microsurgical techniques for cancer-related lymphedema, including lymphaticovenous anastomosis, with a focus on improving quality of life and long-term outcomes in oncology patients.
Free Style Flaps and Fat Grafting as an Ambulatory Option for Total Autologous Breast Reconstruction (TAFF vs. Free Flap)– Barcelona, Spain Presenter & Panelist
13th Biannual Congress of the World Society of Reconstructive Surgery
In this high-level session, Dr. Komorowska-Timek discussed the evolution of total autologous breast reconstruction, comparing free flap techniques with ambulatory fat grafting and free-style flaps to optimize recovery, aesthetics, and patient satisfaction.
“Reclaiming the Wastelands” – Fat Grafting of Radiated Mastectomy Skin Prior to Free Flap Transfer– Barcelona, Spain Presenter & Panelist
13th Biannual Congress of the World Society of Reconstructive Surgery
Dr. Komorowska-Timek shared her experience in using strategic fat grafting to restore irradiated mastectomy skin prior to flap-based breast reconstruction—an innovative approach that improves tissue viability and surgical outcomes in complex cases. Dr. Timek receives referrals from across Michigan and beyond, including out-of-state and international patients, reflecting trust in her microsurgical and reconstructive and cosmetic expertise.
Medical Spa
Advanced Plastic Surgery & Med Spa is among the best in Grand Rapids, Mi for several compelling reasons that go beyond aesthetics — offering both medical excellence and a curated luxury experience. Here’s why it’s considered exceptional:
- Unlike standalone med spas, Advanced Plastic Surgery is physician-led, meaning every non-surgical treatment is informed by deep anatomical and aesthetic knowledge.
- Patients benefit from coordinated care between injectables, lasers, skincare, and surgery — creating long- term results, not just temporary fixes.
- Treatments are customized, not cookie-cutter — protocols are designed based on facial structure, skin health, and long-term aesthetic goals.
- Only FDA-cleared, evidence-based technology is used: lasers, radiofrequency, microneedling, and body contouring are selected for safety and results.
- Injectors at Advanced are highly trained under Dr. Timek’s guidance and receive ongoing, in-house education, often beyond state requirements.
- Their approach prioritizes natural outcomes, facial balance, and prevention of aging — not trendy, overdone looks.
- The environment is sophisticated, discreet, and spa-like, reflecting a concierge-level experience without feeling corporate or rushed.
- Many patients appreciate that they’re treated holistically — with options ranging from wellness support to advanced skincare and surgical planning in one location.
- APS Spa is often recommended by patients, physicians, and even other med spa professionals for its trustworthiness, results, and consistency.
- While not relying on commercial paid for awards, their reputation is built on word-of-mouth, before-and-after outcomes, and decades of mastery.
If you’re seeking a practice with both high aesthetic skill and surgical depth, you’ll gain confidence with Board Certified oversight alongside top-tier non-invasive treatments.
Services unique to our practice.

- Advanced Plastic Surgery Website is available in English, Polish and Spanish versions.
- Language Services – At Advanced Plastic Surgery in Grand Rapids, Michigan we know the importance of bridging the language gap. We enjoy the opportunity to provide services to non-English speaking, the deaf, and hard-of-hearing patients, with over 80 languages including ASL (American Sign Language).
Our goal is to fully understand the patient’s desires, to accurately perform assessments, and to effectively communicate procedural information through our language services. We are available to answer any question you may have, whether in the office, on the phone or by email.
OUT-OF-TOWN PATIENTS
come visit us
It’s not uncommon for patients to travel to Grand Rapids for plastic surgery from all over Michigan, surounging states, and even other countries. With Dr. Timek’s international notoriety, we welcome patients from all around the world. Our out-of-town patient page gives a break down of accommodations & recommendations in the area.
Patient Resources
Advanced Plastic Surgery
We’re here to help, with a number of patient resources designed to make your experience as comfortable as possible. Read through the materials below, and don’t hesitate to reach out.