Christopher L. Hess, MD, FACS

Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

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Meet Dr. Hess

With more than 20 years of experience, Christopher Hess, MD, FACS is a board-certified plastic surgeon specializing in cosmetic breast surgery and body contouring. Renowned for his meticulous technique, artistic eye, and commitment to patient-centered care, Dr. Hess focuses exclusively on breast enhancement procedures—including breast augmentation, lift, and reduction. He also offers a full range of body contouring surgeries such as liposuction, tummy tuck, arm lift, and thigh lift. Whether enhancing the breasts or sculpting the body, Dr. Hess combines surgical precision with a genuine passion for helping patients look and feel their best.

Education and Training

Dr. Hess received his medical degree with honors from the Medical College of Wisconsin where he graduated as a member of Alpha Omega Alpha, the medical honor society that comprises the top 10 percent of medical students. He then completed a rigorous six-year Integrated Plastic Surgery Residency at the prestigious Georgetown University Hospital. He is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons and has been board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery since 2005.

Recognition and Publications

Before relocating to Florida, Dr. Hess spent nearly 20 years in private practice in Northern Virginia, where he held privileges at leading hospitals and surgery centers. He earned widespread recognition as a “Top Doctor” by Washingtonian Magazine and Northern Virginia Magazine over multiple years.

A respected voice in the field, Dr. Hess has contributed to numerous peer-reviewed publications, book chapters, and national presentations on topics ranging from advanced wound healing to breast reconstruction and cosmetic surgery techniques.

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Beyond the OR

Beyond the operating room, Dr. Hess is deeply committed to education and community outreach. He is the founder of WizSTEM, a nonprofit initiative designed to inspire the next generation of innovators in science, technology, engineering, and math through hands-on learning and mentorship.

In his personal time, Dr. Hess especially enjoys a holistic lifestyle, exercising, including Pilates classes, scuba diving, and enjoying time with his family and his miniature goldendoodle Leo.

Education

B.S., summa cum laude, University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee
M.D., magna cum laude, Medical College of Wisconsin; Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Society
Integrated Plastic Surgery Residency (6 years), Georgetown University Hospital

Board Certification

American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) – Diplomate
Fellow, American College of Surgeons (FACS) – peer-elected for ethical conduct and surgical excellence

Academic Honors & Awards

Northern Virginia Magazine “Top Plastic Surgeon,” 2010-2016, 2021-2022
INOVA Fair Oaks Hospital Distinguished Service Award (2009)
RealSelf Top Contributor status for patient education and >1,000 expert answers
RealSelf “Top Doctor,” a title held by <10 % of physicians on RealSelf.com

Professional Affiliations

American College of Surgeons
American Board of Plastic Surgery
Medical Society of Virginia
Virginia Society of Plastic Surgeons

Course Directorships, Authorships & Research

Faculty presenter, Virgin Islands Workshop in Plastic Surgery (2010-2011)
Co-author, multiple chapters in Surgery of the Breast: Principles and Art (2nd & 3rd editions)
Peer-reviewed publications in Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery and Annals of Plastic Surgery (e.g.,
TRAM flap sensibility study)