Meet James Chao, MD, FACS
Board Certified, World-Renowned Plastic Surgeon
With more than 25 years of experience in plastic, reconstructive, and hand surgery, James J. Chao, MD, FACS is a nationally recognized, board-certified plastic surgeon and fellowship-trained specialist in hand and microsurgical procedures. He is widely respected for his mastery in both cosmetic and reconstructive surgery, with particular expertise in breast surgery, body contouring, facial rejuvenation, and advanced skin resurfacing.
With more than 25 years of experience in plastic, reconstructive, and hand surgery, James J. Chao, MD, FACS is a nationally recognized, board-certified plastic surgeon and fellowship-trained specialist in hand and microsurgical procedures. He is widely respected for his mastery in both cosmetic and reconstructive surgery, with particular expertise in breast surgery, body contouring, facial rejuvenation, and advanced skin resurfacing.
As the founding member of VedaNu Wellness, Dr. Chao brings decades of surgical expertise to a modern, wellness-focused practice. His patient care philosophy combines artistic precision, advanced medical technology, and individualized treatment plans to deliver natural, long-lasting results.
Prior to establishing VedaNu Wellness, Dr. Chao served as a Clinical Professor of Surgery at UC San Diego and co-founded Pacific Healthcare Alliance (PHA) — a vertically integrated healthcare platform with assets exceeding $250 million, designed to deliver premium, lifestyle-driven care through a network of aligned medical companies.
Dr. Chao’s educational achievements are equally distinguished. He graduated with honors from Stanford University, earned his medical degree from New York University School of Medicine, and completed his surgical training at the prestigious Institute of Reconstructive Plastic Surgery at NYU Medical Center/Bellevue Hospital.
Board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons, Dr. Chao is also an active member of leading medical societies, including the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), American Society for Surgery of the Hand (ASSH), American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS), American Microsurgical Society (AMS), and the Plastic Surgery Research Council (PSRC).
His career includes serving as the plastic and hand surgeon for the San Diego Chargers and ESPN X Games, as well as being featured on The Doctor’s Show, in the San Diego Union-Tribune, and other respected publications.
Dr. Chao remains dedicated to advancing the field of plastic surgery through innovation, research, and education. At VedaNu Wellness, he blends more than two decades of experience with a compassionate, patient-first approach — guiding individuals toward confidence, balance, and beauty with every procedure.