As a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon in Newport Beach, CA, Dr. Steven M. Daines is renowned nationally for his expertise in deep plane facelift surgery and natural-looking full-face rejuvenation. Patients often describe their experience at Daines Plastic Surgery as warm, welcoming, and deeply personal. That experience is no accident. Dr. Daines believes that trust and authenticity are at the core of every successful outcome, and his goal is always to have patients look and feel like the best version of themselves.
Early Inspiration
A Calling That Began in Childhood
Dr. Daines’ path toward facial plastic surgery began earlier than most. As a child in elementary school, he watched a documentary with his parents about surgeons who traveled to South America to perform cleft lip and palate surgeries. He recalls being struck by how these physicians transformed children’s lives. That experience left a lasting impression. From that moment, Dr. Daines knew he wanted to pursue a career where he could combine artistry, compassion, and technical skill to make a meaningful impact.
Credentials at a Glance
Education & Training
Fellowship - Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, The Williams Center, New York
Residency - Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery, University of Utah
Medical School - University of California, Irvine School of Medicine
Undergraduate - Brigham Young University, cum laude
Certifications
American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
American Board of Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery
Awards & Recognitions
Physician of Excellence, Orange County Medical Association (2017-2026)
America's Best Plastic Surgeons (facelift, rhinoplasty), Newsweek
RealSelf Top Doctor
Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society
Professional Memberships
American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery
Elite Training & Credentials
Dr. Daines has built his career on a foundation of rigorous academic training and elite surgical expertise dedicated exclusively to the face.
A Southern California native, he earned his medical degree from the University of California, Irvine School of Medicine before completing a residency in otolaryngology–head and neck surgery at the University of Utah. He then pursued intensive fellowship training in facial plastic and reconstructive surgery at The Williams Center in New York under the guidance of Edwin F. Williams III, M.D. There, he refined his skills in advanced rejuvenation and complex reconstructive techniques.
These milestones represent more than academic achievement. They give patients the reassurance of a surgeon whose knowledge of facial anatomy is both deep and precise, and whose training has been honed under nationally recognized leaders in the field.
As a result, Dr. Daines brings a unique blend of surgical mastery and aesthetic artistry to every procedure. For patients, this means every procedure is guided not only by advanced technical training but also by a refined aesthetic vision dedicated exclusively to the face.
Areas of Expertise
While Dr. Daines enjoys the full spectrum of facial plastic surgery, several areas have become signature focuses of his career:
Deep Plane Facelift & Full-Face Rejuvenation: Known for advanced techniques that release facial ligaments for a natural elevation of the face and neck, Dr. Daines is recognized nationally for his deep plane facelift expertise.
Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Surgery): He uses conservative methods that often combine fat transfer and laser resurfacing to achieve a rested, youthful look without external lower-lid scars.
Brow Lift: His graduated approach tailors the technique to each patient’s goals, ensuring natural-looking, elegant results.
Laser Resurfacing: He has performed close to 1,000 fractional CO₂ laser treatments, many alongside facelift procedures, to enhance results and accelerate healing.
This combination of artistry, innovation, and proven results has made Dr. Daines a sought-after surgeon for patients across California, the U.S., and internationally from Europe, the Middle East, and Australia.
Dr. Daines has spoken several years in a row to the Health and Medical Occupations Academy (HMO) at Dana Hills High School, describing what it takes to become a facial plastic surgeon, what he loves about his profession, and its challenges.
Innovation & Thought Leadership
Dr. Daines stays at the forefront of facial rejuvenation by adopting enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) protocols, short-scar techniques, and technologies that many surgeons in the region have yet to integrate. He also teaches and mentors pre-med and physician assistant students, allowing the next generation of medical professionals to learn from his expertise in both the operating room and clinic.
Beyond the clinic, he has shared his perspective on balancing a thriving medical career with family life in media outlets, including an appearance on the White Coat Entrepreneur podcast and a feature in Time magazine.
Philosophy of Care
Every aspect of Dr. Daines’ boutique Newport Beach practice reflects this philosophy. Patients often comment that he takes the time to listen, explains procedures thoroughly, and ensures their treatment plan is tailored to their goals. His approach combines the precision of a surgeon, the artistry of an aesthetic specialist, and the compassion of a trusted friend.
“I like to spend extra time with my patients so that I can understand their concerns, and I think patients appreciate being able to feel like they’re part of the family.”
– Dr. Daines
Recognition & Awards
Dr. Daines’ expertise has been recognized nationally, and what sets him apart is the way he shares that expertise beyond the operating room. In addition to honors such as Physician of Excellence and America’s Best Plastic Surgeons, he has been invited to mentor aspiring healthcare professionals, speak at educational programs, and provide expert commentary for outlets such as Reuters Health.
These accolades underscore his expertise and reflect not only clinical excellence but also his role as a trusted voice and leader in facial plastic surgery.
Life Beyond the Operating Room
Fluent in Spanish after living in Uruguay for 2 years, Dr. Daines values cross-cultural connections and the ability to serve diverse patient communities. He is also an avid traveler who has enjoyed visiting Croatia, Portugal, and Hong Kong. But at the end of the day, his greatest joy comes from spending time with his wife and 5 children. This commitment to family keeps him grounded and informs the family-centered values that guide his practice.
Why Choose Dr. Steven M. Daines?
Choosing a surgeon is a highly personal decision, and Dr. Daines offers distinct advantages that set his practice apart.
Exclusive focus on facial procedures for authentic, elegant outcomes
National recognition for deep plane facelift expertise
Concierge-level care in a boutique Newport Beach setting
Compassionate approach that treats patients like family
Proven results, with over 6,000 procedures performed
At Daines Plastic Surgery, patients can expect a personalized journey, from consultation to recovery, guided by a surgeon who blends technical mastery with genuine care.
“Dr. Daines is, by far, the best option for your facial rejuvenation. I have been going to him for almost 10 years. I’ve popped into other places from time to time, so I have experience to compare. His demeanor with patients is noteworthy. He provides a safe space for discussing the aging process (something that can make people feel very vulnerable), listening with compassion and offering solutions to meet your individual needs. Most importantly he doesn’t just point and inject. His experience in knowing the face allows him to customize treatment so that his patients look like themselves and not just like every other patient of his. Trust him. You’re in very good hands.”
– Joanna C.
Meet Dr. Daines in Newport Beach
If you are considering facial plastic surgery or nonsurgical treatments, meeting with Dr. Daines is the first step toward achieving your goals. With a warm, approachable style and a commitment to delivering results that enhance rather than alter, Dr. Daines is here to help you look refreshed, confident, and authentically you.
