Dr. Karen Horton was recently featured in a Castle Connolly article, “Changing the Conversation Around Plastic Surgery: Dr. Karen Horton’s Patient-First Approach,” recognizing her dedication to building strong, honest relationships with her patients and always advocating for their best interests.

As a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon based in San Francisco and serving patients throughout the Bay Area, Dr. Horton blends expertise in aesthetic and reconstructive surgery with a philosophy rooted in education, integrity, and connection. She sees her role not just as a surgeon, but as a trusted advisor—offering the same guidance she would give a sister or best friend.

“I have no problem saying no if I don’t think a patient is a good candidate for surgery,” she shares, underscoring her commitment to safety and long-term well-being. Her consultations go far beyond anatomy and technique. She takes time to understand each patient’s lifestyle, family dynamics, and personal values—insights that help shape a more thoughtful, individualized approach to care.

Dr. Horton also emphasizes the emotional and psychological side of Plastic Surgery. Whether someone is recovering from trauma, preparing for breast reconstruction, or seeking aesthetic refinement, she recognizes the vulnerability involved. Her role is not to sell a procedure, but to help patients feel seen, heard, and supported. She believes that restoring confidence is just as important as restoring form.

Watch Dr. Horton discuss her patient-first philosophy and what truly sets her approach apart:

Her personal identity as a woman, mother, and athlete informs how she relates to her patients—many of whom are women navigating their own complex relationships with their bodies. In a field where most patients are women but most surgeons are men, this shared experience fosters a deeper level of trust and understanding. “Plastic Surgery doesn’t have to be a secret,” she says. “It can be an empowering choice made for yourself.”

Dr. Horton was named a 2025 Castle Connolly Exceptional Woman in Medicine—an honor she has received for seven consecutive years. She reflects on the blend of science, artistry, and empathy that fuels her passion for surgery. Whether performing advanced microsurgical breast reconstruction or aesthetic procedures like breast augmentation and body contouring, her goal is always to help patients feel like the most authentic version of themselves.

Castle Connolly Top Doctors represent the top 7% of U.S. physicians. These peer-nominated professionals are rigorously vetted by a physician-led research team and recognized not only for their clinical excellence but also their compassionate care and leadership in the medical community.

The Exceptional Women in Medicine list further honors female physicians who contribute to the advancement of healthcare through research, education, innovation, community involvement, and mentorship. Dr. Horton is proud to be among this group of changemakers—especially when it comes to supporting the next generation of women in medicine. Her advice? Build your support system, ask for help, and know that it’s possible to balance career and family without sacrificing either.

Her feature in Castle Connolly reflects what patients already know: Dr. Horton brings more than skill to the operating room—she brings perspective, heart, and a steadfast commitment to putting patients first.

Read the full article here>>