About John D. Smoot, MD
Dr. Smoot’s surgical talent is matched only by his kind, down-to-earth, and approachable personality. Ask Dr. Smoot what drives him as a plastic surgeon, and his answer is simple: “helping my patients feel better about themselves. Seeing a man or woman’s self-image improve after surgery and learning how this impacts other areas of their lives; this is extremely rewarding. I am honored to be a part of such positive life changes.” With each patient and procedure, he focuses on achieving proportion and balance. His goal is not to create the most dramatic change possible, but to refine a patient’s overall appearance with results that look completely effortless, complementing a patient’s natural aesthetic. Dr. Smoot has an extraordinary depth of skill and experience in plastic surgery that make him highly sought after for breast, body, and facial surgery alike. He is well-known in La Jolla for his advanced scar-reducing techniques with breast lift surgery. In addition to breast augmentation, facial rejuvenation and body contouring surgery comprise a substantial portion of his practice. Dr. Smoot has been board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery since 1990 and has served as Chief of Plastic Surgery at Scripps Memorial Hospital La Jolla, where he remains on staff. He is also an active member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, and the California Society of Plastic Surgeons. Born and raised in Salt Lake City, Utah, Dr. Smoot developed a keen interest in science at an early age. He completed his undergraduate studies at the University of Utah and served in a medical unit in the U.S. National Guard, an experience that solidified his decision to become a surgeon. Dr. Smoot graduated from the University of Utah School of Medicine in 1982 and went on to complete his general surgery residency at Providence Hospital and an additional 2-year fellowship in facial plastic & reconstructive surgery at St. Josephs’ Hospital. Before joining LJCSC, Dr. Smoot practiced with his brother at the San Diego Plastic Surgery Clinic for over 20 years.