Plastic Surgeon in Pasadena
Meet Dr. Max Lehfeldt, MD, FACS
For patients in Pasadena, Los Angeles, and beyond, Dr. Max Lehfeldt represents a combination of elite surgical training, genuine compassion, and an unwavering commitment to results. Dr. Lehfeldt brings the same meticulous attention and personalized approach to every patient he sees, and he custom-tailors all treatment plans for each individual’s unique needs and goals.
Dr. Max Lehfeldt At a Glance
- Dr. Lehfeldt is board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons (FACS).
- He completed an integrated residency in both general surgery and plastic surgery at USC, giving him a uniquely comprehensive surgical foundation that informs every procedure he performs.
- Dr. Lehfeldt has been named a Top Doctor by Pasadena Magazine for fifteen consecutive years (2007–2022), and has earned multiple “Best Cosmetic Surgeon” honors through Pasadena Weekly’s reader poll.
- He offers a full spectrum of procedures — from facial rejuvenation, body contouring, and breast enhancement to reconstructive surgery for cancer, trauma, and abdominal wall repair — all under one roof.
- As a researcher and professional consultant for Allergan, Dr. Lehfeldt has contributed to physician education and product development for leading aesthetic treatments.
- Dr. Lehfeldt was part of the specialized surgical team at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles that successfully completed a landmark 25-hour conjoined twin separation.
- About Max R. Lehfeldt, MD
- How to Choose the Best Plastic Surgeon
- The Importance of Board-Certification
About Max R. Lehfeldt, MD
Board-certified plastic surgeon Max Rudolph Lehfeldt, MD was born in Denver, Colorado. His father was also a doctor and he specialized in radiation oncology. Dr. Lehfeldt spent most of his childhood in the rugged countryside of Redding, California. From the time he was little, Dr. Lehfeldt knew he wanted to be a physician and always strived to be the best. He graduated from Shasta High School as valedictorian and proceeded to graduate with honors from Yale University with a major in Molecular Biophysics and Biochemistry.
Dr. Lehfeldt returned to sunny southern California to attend the prestigious University of Southern California-Keck School of Medicine. He went on to pursue a combined residency in general surgery and plastic surgery at the University of Southern California.
Dr. Lehfeldt is board certified in plastic surgery by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (see “Importance of Board Certification” at the bottom of this page). In addition, Dr. Lehfeldt is a proud member of The Aesthetic Society® (formerly known as the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery) – the leading professional organization of plastic surgeons who specialize in cosmetic plastic surgery. Dr. Lehfeldt is also a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgery (ASPS).
Dr. Lehfeldt has nurtured a unique blended practice in Pasadena and the greater Los Angeles area. Patients hail from out of state as well to see Dr. Lehfeldt. He performs all cosmetic surgeries and specializes in procedures for the facial rejuvenation, breast augmentation and enhancement, and body sculpting. In addition, Dr. Lehfeldt performs reconstructive surgery for breast cancer, skin cancer, abdominal wall reconstructions, and traumatic injuries.
Dr. Lehfeldt emphasizes personalized attention and makes sure to note every detail. He is not satisfied until every one of his patients is happy with their results. Dr. Lehfeldt is always striving to make sure that every patient has a great experience in his relaxing office, gets all of their questions answered, and has the utmost assurance of safety at all times. What really sets Dr. Lehfeldt apart from the others is the amount of time he spends with each and every patient, his meticulous attention to every detail, and the fact that he strives for outstanding results every time.
A few of Dr. Lehfeldt’s career highlights include being part of a team of specialists at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles that successfully separated conjoined twins after 25 hours of surgery! Dr. Lehfeldt has been named as one of Pasadena Magazine’s Top Doctors from 2007-2022 – fifteen years in a row! Dr. Lehfeldt has also been named “Best Cosmetic Surgeon” by Pasadena Weekly Magazine and their reader poll for their “Best of Pasadena” edition 2011, 2012, 2013, and 2015! He consistently achieves very positive reviews on YELP and numerous other physician evaluation websites.
Beyond his formal schooling and training, Dr. Max Lehfeldt continues his dedication to the advancement of plastic surgery by participating in numerous clinical research activities. He has authored continuing medical education articles, peer-reviewed publications, and poster presentations at national plastic surgery meetings.
Dr. Lehfeldt is a researcher and professional consultant for Allergan, a multi-specialty healthcare company that strives for scientific excellence and delivering products that improve patient outcomes. Allergan is the manufacturer of leading aesthetic medicine products such as BOTOX® Cosmetic, JUVÉDERM® fine line filler, breast implants (saline, silicone, and the new, anatomically shaped, “gummy bear” 410 implants), SkinMedica®, and LATISSE®. Dr. Lehfeldt works with Allergan Academy as a researcher, as part of their physician education team, and he facilitates product development. Many of his surgical procedures have been filmed and produced for physician education purposes.
When Dr. Lehfeldt is not working in his busy office, surgery center, or in the hospital, he can be found outdoors – skiing, dirt bike riding, or scuba diving.
What is the Importance of Board Certification?
Board certification is the “gold standard” in physician assessment of competency. It can only be attained after completing years of schooling, residency, examinations, and ongoing education. The high standards set by the medical board ensure that patients receive only the best care. Board certification matters because it means that your physician is voluntarily participating in lifelong learning to keep his skills and knowledge current. Board certification means that your physician is committed to quality clinical outcomes, patient safety, and a patient-centered practice and environment.
As many of you keep hearing in the news about the importance of board certification, rest easy – Dr. Max Lehfeldt is a board certified plastic surgeon!
How to Choose the Best Plastic Surgeon
Choosing a plastic surgeon is one of the most consequential decisions you’ll make on your aesthetic or reconstructive journey. The right surgeon brings far more than technical skill to the table — they bring judgment, integrity, and a genuine commitment to your well-being. Here’s what to look for:
Board Certification. This is your baseline. A surgeon certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery has completed rigorous training specifically in plastic and reconstructive surgery, passed comprehensive written and oral examinations, and commits to ongoing continuing education. ABPS certification can signify that a doctor has gone well-beyond the standard education and training requirements to be a practicing plastic surgeon and is dedicated to providing the highest standards of care.
Relevant Experience. Look for a surgeon whose practice reflects real depth in the procedure you’re considering. Years in practice matter, but so does the volume and variety of cases.
Transparency and Communication. In your consultation, pay attention to how your questions are answered. A good surgeon will take time to discuss realistic outcomes, potential risks, recovery expectations, and alternatives — without pressure. If something feels rushed or glossed over, trust that instinct.
Verified Patient Outcomes. Before-and-after photos offer valuable perspective. Look for consistency in results, not just a single impressive case.
Accredited Surgical Facility. Surgery should take place in an accredited operating room or surgical center, where safety standards are rigorously maintained. Ask where your procedure will be performed and confirm its accreditation status.
If you have additional questions, or if you are ready to schedule a consultation with Dr. Max Lehfeldt, please contact us today.