The People Behind VedaNu Wellness
Exceptional care starts with the people providing it. Meet the team bringing together medical expertise, clinical leadership, and thoughtful operations to create a more connected, personalized experience at VedaNu Wellness.
JAMES J. CHAO, MD, FACS
Dr. James Chao is a board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon with over two decades of experience in surgical excellence, medical innovation, and patient-centered care. As Co-Founder and Chief Medical Officer of VedaNu Wellness, Dr. Chao leads the clinical vision of the practice, blending advanced medical treatments with a holistic approach to wellness and aesthetic medicine.
Recognized nationally for his surgical skill and compassionate bedside manner, Dr. Chao brings a science-driven, personalized philosophy to every patient interaction. At VedaNu Wellness, he guides patients through their weight loss and aesthetic journeys with evidence-based strategies that prioritize long-term health, natural results, and restored confidence.
Dr. Chao is deeply committed to empowering patients with the knowledge and support they need to make informed decisions about their care. His leadership and dedication to excellence shape the foundation of VedaNu’s mission: to deliver safe, effective, and transformative care tailored to the unique goals of every individual.
Blake Harmeson
Blake is an accomplished healthcare professional and business leader with a strong background in patient care, strategic operations, and multi-site practice management. As Co-Founder and Chief Operating Officer of VedaNu Wellness, Blake oversees the daily operations of the practice, ensuring a streamlined, supportive, and personalized experience for every patient.
With a deep passion for wellness and a results-driven mindset, Blake plays an integral role in both patient-facing and behind-the-scenes functions. From managing care coordination and staff development to overseeing marketing strategy and patient acquisition, Blake is dedicated to delivering operational excellence across all facets of the business. Known for a hands-on leadership style and exceptional organizational skills, Blake is committed to creating an environment where patients feel empowered, cared for, and confident in their journey toward lasting health and wellness.
Vanessa Lizarraga
Vanessa is an experienced healthcare professional with more than 20 years of clinical expertise spanning patient care, nursing, and aesthetic medicine. As Co-Founder and Chief Clinical Officer of VedaNu Wellness, she leads clinical operations with a patient-centered approach focused on attentive, safe, and personalized care.
Known for her clinical knowledge and warm, approachable demeanor, Vanessa takes the time to understand each patient’s goals and helps guide their care throughout the VedaNu experience. Her expertise extends across medical weight loss, hormone therapy, wellness, and medical aesthetics, allowing her to support patients through a wide range of treatment journeys.
At the heart of Vanessa’s approach is a commitment to making patients feel heard, informed, and genuinely cared for. She works closely with Dr. Chao and the VedaNu team to help ensure every patient receives thoughtful guidance and a coordinated experience from the inside out.
Your Care Should Feel Connected
At VedaNu Wellness, our team works collaboratively across plastic surgery, wellness, longevity, and aesthetics. This connected approach allows us to look beyond a single treatment and consider your broader goals, experience, and long-term care.
Our physician-led approach brings medical expertise and thoughtful clinical oversight to your care. Every recommendation is considered with your individual needs, goals, and overall experience in mind.
Personalization is at the center of everything we do. We take the time to listen, understand what matters to you, and help create a care plan designed around your unique goals.
Behind the scenes, our clinical and operational teams work together to create a coordinated, supportive experience throughout your journey with VedaNu Wellness.
Your Care Starts
With a Conversation.
Whether you’re exploring plastic surgery, wellness, longevity, or aesthetics, our team is here to answer your questions, understand your goals, and help you find the right path forward.
One practice. Four ways we care for you.
Plastic Surgery
Face | Breast | Body
Personalized Cosmetic Surgery
Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon