Why Patients Travel to Los Angeles for Plastic Surgery With Dr. Stoker

When you’re considering plastic surgery, choosing the right surgeon is the most important step in your journey. For many people across the country—and around the world—that choice leads to Dr. David Stoker in Los Angeles. Known for his surgical artistry, advanced techniques, and exceptional outcomes, Dr. Stoker attracts patients who want natural-looking results and concierge-level care that make the trip well worth it.

What Sets Dr. Stoker Apart

Dr. Stoker is widely regarded as one of Los Angeles’ most accomplished and innovative plastic surgeons. His combination of precision, compassion, and experience has made his practice a trusted destination for patients seeking refined transformations that look completely natural.

Patients travel for surgery with Dr. Stoker because he offers:

  • Renowned Expertise: Dr. Stoker is a board-certified plastic surgeon with decades of experience and thousands of successful procedures.
  • Signature Techniques: Creator of theTraceless Deep Plane Facelift, Bikini Body Lift™, Hourglass Tummy Tuck, and Rapid Recovery Breast Augmentation, Dr. Stoker designed each procedure to minimize downtime and maximize beautiful, lasting outcomes.
  • Proven Results: See consistently natural-looking, balanced results showcased in his extensive before-and-after galleries and patient testimonials.
  • Concierge-Level Care: A dedicated team coordinates every aspect of your experience, from your initial consultation to your safe return home, so you feel cared for at every step.
  • Commitment to Innovation: Dr. Stoker continues to refine his techniques and mentor other surgeons, ensuring his patients benefit from the most current, effective approaches in aesthetic medicine.

From consultation to recovery, patients who travel for surgery with Dr. Stoker know they’re in the hands of a trusted expert dedicated to achieving beautiful, lasting results.

Step 1: Your Virtual or In-Person Consultation

Your experience begins with a personalized consultation, either in person at Dr. Stoker’s Los Angeles office or virtually from the comfort of your home. Virtual consultations make it simple to explore your options, receive expert recommendations, and plan your surgery before you travel.

Before your appointment, you’ll be invited to create a secure MyPatientPortal account. This allows you to complete medical forms and upload photos in advance, enabling Dr. Stoker to understand your goals and provide preliminary feedback.

To make your consultation as smooth and productive as possible:

  • Submit clear, well-lit photos of your areas of concern.
  • Be ready to discuss your aesthetic goals and surgical timeline.
  • Include anyone who helps with your decision-making or scheduling.

Whether you meet via Zoom, FaceTime, or in person, Dr. Stoker ensures your consultation is informative, collaborative, and tailored to your unique needs.

Step 2: Scheduling and Preparation

Once you decide to move forward, Dr. Stoker’s patient coordinator will help you schedule your pre-operative appointment and surgery date, typically on consecutive days for your convenience. Before you travel, you’ll receive a detailed preparation packet. A deposit secures your surgery date, with the final payment due 3 weeks before your procedure. During your pre-op appointment, you’ll meet with Dr. Stoker and his team to review your plan, confirm details, and ask any final questions.

All surgeries take place in Dr. Stoker’s accredited outpatient surgery center, located adjacent to his main office for your convenience. The close proximity of the surgical and consultation facilities allows for a streamlined, safe, and comfortable experience from start to finish.

Step 3: Recovering Comfortably in Los Angeles

Your recovery is just as important as your procedure. For out-of-town patients, Dr. Stoker’s team partners with trusted recovery facilities and private-duty nurses to ensure comfort, safety, and peace of mind.

For larger procedures, patients spend at least one night in professional aftercare, where licensed nurses provide 24-hour supervision and manage all immediate post-op needs. After that, you can continue recovering in one of several supportive settings and take advantage of convenient services such as:

  • Private Duty Nurses: Receive one-on-one care from experienced nurses who assist with medication, mobility, and wound care.
  • Aftercare Facilities: Enjoy private suites with 24-hour nursing, gourmet meals, and concierge services for the ultimate comfort.
  • Hotel & Airbnb Assistance: Get personalized recommendations for accommodations near the office and surgery center.
  • Transportation Coordination: The team can help arrange rides to and from surgery and post-op visits.

Dr. Stoker’s attentive staff and carefully designed recovery process help minimize downtime while ensuring you feel fully supported throughout your stay in Los Angeles.

Planning Your Stay in Los Angeles

The amount of time you’ll need to spend in Los Angeles after your surgery depends on the procedure and your individual healing progress. The following general guidelines can help you plan:

  • Facelift: Stay 10 to 12 days for incision monitoring and early healing.
  • Bikini Body Lift: Plan 12 to 14 days for swelling management and mobility recovery.
  • Post-Weight Loss Surgery: Stay 12 to 14 days for multiple incision care and drain monitoring.
  • Tummy Tuck: Allow 10 to 14 days for safe recovery and post-op visits.
  • Mommy Makeover: Stay 12 to 14 days for combined breast and body healing.

All patients spend at least one night in professional aftercare. Procedures involving abdominal surgery or body lifting typically include drains, which are removed before travel.

If you’re traveling internationally, plan for additional time for follow-up before flying home. Your care team will customize your recovery timeline to ensure you heal comfortably and safely before traveling home.

Concierge Services for Out-of-Town Patients

Dr. Stoker’s patient coordinator and clinical nurse oversee every detail of your visit, making the entire experience seamless and stress-free. Concierge services include:

  • Personalized lodging and recovery recommendations
  • Private-duty nursing coordination
  • Transportation assistance for appointments
  • Guidance for traveling companions or caregivers

With every element handled by an experienced team, you can focus on relaxing and healing in comfort.

Popular Procedures for Out-of-Town Patients

Dr. Stoker’s reputation and refined results attract patients seeking a wide range of cosmetic enhancements, including:

Every result reflects Dr. Stoker’s commitment to excellence, precision, and a level of care that defines his reputation worldwide.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is traveling for plastic surgery safe?

Yes, traveling for plastic surgery with Dr. Stoker in Los Angeles is safe. His accredited surgery center, experienced staff, and trusted aftercare partners ensure patients receive comprehensive medical support throughout their stay.


Do I need someone to stay with me after surgery?

Yes, you’ll need postoperative support. If you’re traveling alone, Dr. Stoker’s team can arrange professional nursing care and transportation so you’re cared for and comfortable during recovery.


How long should I plan to stay in Los Angeles after my surgery?

Your recommended stay depends on your procedure. Most patients remain in Los Angeles for 10 to 14 days to allow for early recovery and postoperative visits before traveling home.


When can I fly home after surgery?

Most patients can safely fly home 10 to 14 days after their procedure, once cleared by Dr. Stoker at a follow-up appointment. This timeline allows for incision monitoring, swelling reduction, and early healing.


Can I schedule virtual follow-up appointments?

Yes, Dr. Stoker offers virtual follow-up appointments for out-of-town patients. His team can also coordinate with your local physician if you need additional in-person care.

Plan Your Visit

Traveling for surgery is a meaningful investment in yourself. With Dr. Stoker and his experienced team, you can trust that every detail will be handled with precision, care, and attention to safety. To start planning your procedure, call our office today at (310) 300-1779 or request a consultation using the online form.

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Bikini Body Lift™
Cellulite, sagging skin, and lower body laxity are some of the most stubborn concerns for women — especially after weight loss, pregnancy, or menopause. While skin tightening treatments and traditional thigh lifts often fall short, Dr. David Stoker’s Bikini Body Lift™ delivers natural, long-lasting results by lifting, tightening, and reshaping the thighs and buttocks to restore a youthful, smooth contour.

Traceless Deep Plane Facelift
For patients seeking facial rejuvenation, Dr. Stoker’s Traceless Deep Plane Facelift is designed to achieve powerful, natural-looking results without visible signs of surgery. This advanced technique repositions the deep facial layers to restore youthful volume and definition while ensuring incisions remain virtually invisible. The result is a refreshed, balanced appearance that looks entirely your own.