Meet Dr. John Hilinski
Dr. John M. Hilinski is a board-certified facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon with over 30 years of surgical experience serving patients throughout San Diego and Southern California. As founder and medical director of his private practice and The Hilinski Ambulatory Surgery Center, Dr. Hilinski is recognized as a leader in advanced facial plastic surgery, with particular expertise in rhinoplasty, facial rejuvenation, and complex reconstructive procedures of the face, head, and neck.
A San Diego native who returned to his hometown after completing world-class training at Harvard Medical School and under fellowship director Dr. Dean M. Toriumi—one of the nation’s most respected facial plastic surgeons—Dr. Hilinski has established himself as a trusted specialist for patients seeking expert facial surgery. His commitment to precision, innovation, and patient-centered care has made him one of the most sought-after facial plastic surgeons in the region.
Education and Professional Credentials
Medical Education
Dr. Hilinski earned his Doctor of Medicine from Harvard Medical School (1991–1995), one of the nation’s most prestigious medical institutions. During his undergraduate years at San Diego State University (1987–1991), he completed his studies in biological sciences and graduated Summa Cum Laude with Distinction in Biologic Science—a distinction reflecting his academic excellence and commitment to scientific rigor.
Board Certification
Dr. Hilinski is board-certified by two major medical boards:
- American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (2005)
- American Board of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery (2002)
Board certification demonstrates that Dr. Hilinski has met rigorous standards of knowledge, clinical competency, and ethical practice—and maintains ongoing commitment to professional excellence through continuing education and recertification.
Postgraduate Training
Following medical school, Dr. Hilinski completed rigorous postgraduate training in surgery and facial plastic surgery:
- General Surgery Internship (1995–1996): University of California, San Diego Medical Center and Veterans Administration Medical Center
- Head and Neck Surgery Residency and Chief Residency (1996–2001): Division of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery, UCSD Medical Center, under the direction of Jeffrey P. Harris, M.D., Ph.D. During his residency, Dr. Hilinski earned the Chairman’s Award and the Outstanding Resident Academic Achievement Award.
- Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Fellowship (2001–2002): Division of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, University of Illinois, Chicago College of Medicine, under the mentorship of Dean M. Toriumi, M.D., a world-renowned pioneer in facial plastic surgery.
Clinical Experience and Areas of Expertise
30+ Years of Surgical Practice
Dr. Hilinski has spent more than three decades providing comprehensive facial plastic and reconstructive surgery to patients throughout San Diego and Southern California. His clinical experience encompasses:
- Rhinoplasty and Revision Rhinoplasty: Primary and revision nasal surgery, including ethnic rhinoplasty, nasal tip refinement, and management of complex nasal deformities
- Otoplasty and Macrotia Reduction: Ear pinning and ear reduction surgery for prominent or oversized ears, including complex revision cases
- Facelift Surgery (Rhytidectomy): Comprehensive facial rejuvenation with attention to natural-looking results and facial harmony
- Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty): Upper and lower eyelid surgery to address aging, drooping, or functional concerns
- Facial Rejuvenation: Non-surgical treatments including Botox, dermal fillers, and advanced injectables; surgical skin resurfacing and chemical peels
- Reconstructive Surgery: Facial reconstruction following trauma, cancer removal, or congenital deformities; scar revision; soft tissue grafting
- Head and Neck Surgery: Comprehensive management of head and neck conditions, including otolaryngologic and reconstructive procedures
Specialized Expertise
Dr. Hilinski’s clinical interests and areas of particular expertise include:
- Advanced injectable techniques using long-lasting fillers (Sculptra, Bellafill, polymethylmethacrylate)
- Volumetric facial contouring and reshaping
- Blunt-tipped cannula techniques for safe, precise filler placement
- Ethnic rhinoplasty and culturally sensitive facial surgery
- Nasal reconstruction for cutaneous malignancies
- Management of complex revision rhinoplasty cases
- Plasma energy rejuvenation of the face and neck
Hospital Affiliations and Practice Leadership
Staff Appointments
Dr. Hilinski maintains active staff surgeon positions at leading regional medical facilities:
- Scripps Mercy Hospital, San Diego (Staff Surgeon, 2014–present)
- The Hilinski Ambulatory Surgery Center, San Diego (Owner and Medical Director, 2010–present)
- Scripps Green Hospital, La Jolla (Staff Surgeon, 2002–2013)
- Sharp Memorial Hospital, San Diego (Staff Surgeon, 2005–2008)
Academic Appointments
Dr. Hilinski has served as a clinical instructor in surgery at leading academic institutions:
- Clinical Instructor in Surgery, Division of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery, UCSD Medical Center (2002–2010)
- Clinical Instructor in Surgery, Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Veterans Administration Medical Center, La Jolla (2002–2010)
- Clinical Instructor in Surgery, University of Illinois, Chicago College of Medicine (2001–2002)
Private Practice
Dr. Hilinski has owned and directed his private practice since 2005, offering comprehensive facial plastic and reconstructive surgery, otolaryngologic services, and medical spa treatments in San Diego.
Innovation, Leadership, and Professional Recognition
Professional Affiliations and Memberships
Dr. Hilinski maintains active membership in leading professional organizations dedicated to advancing facial plastic surgery:
- The Rhinoplasty Society (Member of Corporate Support/Grant/Industry Panel Committee, 2016–2017; Member of International Society Committee, 2016–2017)
- California Society of Facial Plastic Surgery
- American Academy of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery
- American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
- American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery
- San Diego County Medical Society
- California Medical Association
- Association for Medical Ethics
Medical Board and Regulatory Leadership
- Member of the Expert Reviewer Program, Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Medical Board of California (2010–present)
Medical-Legal Expert Experience
Dr. Hilinski has served as a retained medical-legal expert in facial plastic and reconstructive surgery since 2003, providing independent expert opinions, deposition testimony, and trial testimony in civil and criminal matters across California and beyond. His engagements include cases involving rhinoplasty, cosmetic nose surgery, facial trauma, reconstructive surgery, and physician conduct. He has testified in Superior Courts across California as both a defense expert and an expert for the state.
Clinical Trials and Research
Dr. Hilinski has participated in FDA clinical trials and advanced research:
- FDA Clinical Trial Investigator, FulFil Lip EIFFEL Study by Evera Medical (2008–2009)
- Clinical Research Consultant, neoV1064 for temporary increase of clear nails in patients with onychomycosis (2014–2015)
Medical Advisory and Consulting Roles
- Medical Advisory Board, Suneva Medical, San Diego (2010–2011)
- Clinical Instructor and Practice Consultant, Suneva Medical (2009–2017)
- Cosmetic and Plastic Surgery Consultant, Gerson Lehrman Group Councils (2007–present)
- Facial Plastic Surgery Consultant and Provider, San Diego Chargers NFL Football Team (2005–2017)
Entrepreneurial Leadership
- Co-Founder and Chief Medical Officer, SurgLogs, Inc. (2015–present): Automated software for surgery center compliance and operational excellence
Political Appointment
- California Health Facilities Finance Authority, appointed by California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger (2007–2008)
Academic Contributions and Publications
Peer-Reviewed Journal Articles
Dr. Hilinski has published extensively in peer-reviewed medical journals, contributing to the advancement of facial plastic surgery knowledge:
- Collins J, Harvey J, Hilinski JM. “Reconstructing the Gauge Earlobe Defect.” JAMA Facial Plastic Surgery. Published online December 18, 2014.
- Johnsson A, Zeelenberg I, Min Y, Hilinski J, Berry C, Howell SB, Los G. “Identification of genes differentially expressed in association with acquired cisplatin resistance.” British Journal of Cancer. 2000 Oct; 83(8): 1047–1054.
- Hosseinzadeh M, Hilinski J, Turner WJD, Harris JP. “Meniere disease caused by an anomalous vein of the vestibular aqueduct.” Archives of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery. 1998; 124: 695–698.
- Gliklich RE, Hilinski JM. “Longitudinal sensitivity of generic and specific health measures in chronic sinusitis.” Quality of Life Research. 4:27–32, 1995.
Book Chapters
Dr. Hilinski has contributed authoritative chapters to leading surgical textbooks:
- Hilinski JM. “Otoplasty Reversal.” Cosmetic Facial Surgery, 4th Edition. Ed. Niamtu J. Elsevier. In press, 2026.
- Hilinski JM, Cohen SR. “Soft Tissue Augmentation with Artefill.” Facial Plastic Surgery. Thieme Medical Publishers, Volume 25 (2): 114–119, 2009.
- Hilinski JM, Cohen SR. “Volumetric Use of Injectable Fillers in the Face.” Techniques in Aesthetic Plastic Surgery Series: Facial Rejuvenation with Fillers. Eds. Cohen and Born. Elsevier Ltd, 2009.
- Hilinski JM, Toriumi DM. “The Ageing Face.” Scott Brown’s Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery. 7th Edition. May 2008.
Emedicine World Medical Library Publications
Dr. Hilinski has authored multiple instructional guides for surgical professionals:
- “Spreader grafts in rhinoplasty” (May 2008)
- “Skin Resurfacing: Chemical Peels” (May 2008)
- “Gracilis muscle free tissue transfer” (June 2001)
- “Facial nerve repair” (May 2001)
- “Vertical dome division in rhinoplasty” (June 2001)
Editorial Review
Dr. Hilinski serves as a peer reviewer for leading medical journals:
- Reviewer for Archives of Facial Plastic Surgery (2007–present)
- Reviewer for International Journal of Medical Sciences (2011)
- Reviewer for Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (2014)
Presentations and Speaking Engagements
Dr. Hilinski is a frequent invited speaker at national and regional surgical conferences, sharing his expertise with fellow surgeons and aesthetic professionals. Recent presentations include:
- “Lessons Learned in Rhinoplasty,” Aesthetic Surgery Grand Rounds, UCSD Division of Plastic Surgery (August 2019)
- “Plasma Energy in Rejuvenation of the Face and Neck,” American Aesthetics and Cosmetic Dermatology Annual Meeting (January 2019)
- “Use of Long-Lasting Fillers,” American Aesthetics and Cosmetic Dermatology Annual Meeting (January 2019)
- “Nasal Tip Rhinoplasty: Common Problems and My Evolving Approach,” Aesthetic Surgery Grand Rounds, UCSD (August 2016)
- “Ethnic Rhinoplasty,” California Society of Plastic Surgeons (May 2012)
- “Nasal Reconstruction for Cutaneous Malignancies,” California Society of Plastic Surgeons (May 2012)
- “Rhinoplasty Pearls,” Aesthetic Surgery Grand Rounds, UCSD (November 2010)
Dr. Hilinski has delivered over 50 presentations at academic medical centers, professional conferences, and continuing education workshops throughout his career.
Patient Care Philosophy
Dr. Hilinski believes that optimal facial plastic surgery requires a collaborative, patient-centered approach. He takes time to understand each patient’s unique aesthetic goals, concerns, and lifestyle before developing a personalized treatment plan. Rather than recommending a one-size-fits-all approach, Dr. Hilinski emphasizes transparent communication about treatment options, realistic outcome expectations, and potential risks and benefits.
His philosophy centers on achieving natural-looking, harmonious results that enhance each patient’s unique facial features while maintaining facial balance and proportion. Dr. Hilinski’s exclusive focus on facial plastic and reconstructive surgery—rather than general plastic surgery—allows him to develop deep expertise in advanced facial techniques and deliver superior outcomes.
Charitable Work and Community Commitment
The Hilinski Foundation for Surgery
In 2010, Dr. Hilinski co-founded The Hilinski Foundation for Surgery, a non-profit organization dedicated to providing charitable facial plastic surgery to underprivileged youth in San Diego. This commitment reflects Dr. Hilinski’s belief in giving back to the community and making transformative surgical care accessible to those in need.
Academic Honors and Awards
Dr. Hilinski’s career has been marked by numerous academic honors and recognitions:
- Chairman’s Award, Division of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery, UCSD (2000–2001)
- Outstanding Resident Academic Achievement Award, Division of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery, UCSD (1999–2000)
- National Institutes of Health Research Training Award, Harvard Medical School (1994)
- Summa Cum Laude with Distinction in Biologic Science, San Diego State University (1991)
- American Heart Association Undergraduate Research Fellowship Recipient (1990)
- Dean’s List Honors, San Diego State University (1987–1991)
Frequently Asked Questions About Dr. Hilinski
Dr. Hilinski is board-certified by the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (2005) and the American Board of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery (2002). He earned his M.D. from Harvard Medical School and completed his facial plastic surgery fellowship under Dr. Dean M. Toriumi at the University of Illinois, Chicago. Board certification demonstrates that Dr. Hilinski has met rigorous standards of knowledge, clinical competency, and ethical practice.
Dr. Hilinski has over 30 years of surgical experience, including medical school, residency, fellowship training, and private practice. He has performed thousands of facial plastic and reconstructive procedures and maintains active staff positions at leading regional hospitals.
Dr. Hilinski specializes in rhinoplasty (primary and revision), facelift surgery, eyelid surgery, facial rejuvenation with injectables and fillers, facial reconstruction, scar revision, and comprehensive head and neck surgery. He offers both surgical and non-surgical treatment options tailored to each patient’s goals.
Dr. Hilinski believes in comprehensive, patient-centered care with transparent communication. He takes time to understand each patient’s unique aesthetic goals and concerns, provides realistic outcome expectations, and develops personalized treatment plans that align with each patient’s preferences and lifestyle.
Yes. Dr. Hilinski is board-certified by the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and the American Board of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery. Board certification requires rigorous examination, clinical experience, and ongoing commitment to continuing education.
To schedule a consultation with Dr. Hilinski, contact his office at (619) 296-3223 or make an appointment online. Our team will help you schedule an appointment at a time that works for your schedule.
About John Hilinski MD Facial Plastic Surgery
John Hilinski MD Facial Plastic Surgery is dedicated to providing comprehensive, advanced facial plastic and reconstructive surgery to patients throughout San Diego and Southern California. With a focus on precision, innovation, and patient-centered care, the practice combines clinical expertise, advanced surgical techniques, and personalized attention to deliver exceptional outcomes.
Dr. Hilinski’s exclusive focus on facial plastic and reconstructive surgery—rather than general plastic surgery—ensures that patients receive specialized expertise in facial anatomy, aesthetics, and surgical technique. Whether you are considering rhinoplasty, facelift surgery, eyelid surgery, or non-surgical facial rejuvenation, Dr. Hilinski and his team are committed to helping you achieve your aesthetic goals with the highest level of care and expertise.