Dr. Karam, facial plastic surgeon in San Diego star icon
Pioneer in Facial Plastic Surgery

Pioneer in Facial Plastic Surgery

Focused exclusively on Vertical Restore®, refined over decades to deliver consistent, identity-preserving, full-face rejuvenation.

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Destination for Patients Across the Globe

Destination for Patients Across the Globe

A trusted destination for patients seeking predictable, undetectable results through a singular, highly specialized approach.

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Creator of the KaramMD® Trifecta Skincare System

Creator of the KaramMD® Trifecta Skincare System

Developed to support surgical outcomes by improving skin quality through a simple, consistent, long-term regimen.

I know that it's not aging or getting older that is painful, but looking in the mirror or at photographs and feeling a deep disconnect between the person you see reflected in those images and how you actually feel inside.

Dr. Amir Karam

woman looking at her reflection in a mirror Dr. Karam, top facial plastic surgeon in San Diego

Dr. Karam’s Two-Pronged Approach

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Vertical Restore + KaramMD Trifecta Complete Facial Rejuvenation

01 Vertical Restore®

Facial Shape

02 KaramMD® Trifecta

Facial Skin

The Vertical Restore®

Dr. Karam’s signature evolution of the deep plane facelift.

Recognized worldwide for natural, undetectable outcomes, Dr. Karam’s Vertical Restore® set a standard so high, it redefined the field.

Learn About the Vertical Restore®

Featured Patient Stories It’s kind of a dream come true, honestly.

Name

Neda (Dr. Karam's Wife)

Age

52

Concerns

Aging changes around the mouth

Neck laxity / loss of a clean neck angle

Early jowling and a softening jawline

Loss of her natural “teardrop” facial shape

Feeling she didn’t recognize herself in pictures

More About Neda's Transformation

Featured Patient Stories I felt off balance, I felt young but I could see the aging. After surgery I feel like it connected those two sides back together again.

Name

Brandi

Age

51

Concerns

Sagging in the cheeks and midface

Drooping brows

Loss of jawline definition

Loose skin in the neck

Elongation of the face

More About Brandi's Transformation

Featured Patient Stories The compliments I’ve been getting have been amazing.

Name

Michele F.

Age

70

Concerns

Aging appearance in the lips

Aging appearance in the hands

Sagging in the neck and jowls

Flattening or drooping in the midface

A heavier overall facial expression

More About Michele F.'s Transformation

Featured Patient Stories I didn’t see what I was feeling inside. My age was not matching with the outside. I feel I can live again in my 30’s, but better!

Name

Barbara C.

Age

48

Concerns

Sagging in the cheeks and midface

Tired eyes

Loss of jawline definition

Loose skin in the neck

Elongation of the face

More About Barbara C.'s Transformation

Featured Patient Stories Dr. Karam gave me back the face I remembered. I can honestly say Dr. Karam breathed new life into me.

Name

Karyn B.

Age

65

Concerns

Fullness and heaviness around the eyes

Looseness along the cheeks and jawline

Hollowing in key areas

A longer, less defined upper lip

Excess or crepey eyelid skin

More About Karyn B.'s Transformation

A Natural Restoration, Guaranteed.

What Makes the Vertical Restore® Superior?

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The Whole Face
Treated At Once

The Whole Face
Treated At Once

The Vertical Restore® addresses the brow, midface, jawline, and neck in a single, comprehensive procedure, creating an incredibly natural and harmonious result.

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Restored the Way You Actually Age

Restored the Way You Actually Age

It’s called the Vertical Restore® for a reason: it restores the tissues vertically, giving back your youthful contours without any distortion.

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Fat Transfer
Completes the Picture

Fat Transfer
Completes the Picture

Fat transfer adds back natural fullness, turning a great lift into a complete restoration by addressing sagging and volume loss together.

Dr. Karam, facial plastic surgeon in San Diego 04
Proven Again & Again

Proven Again & Again

Dr. Karam has performed thousands of procedures, producing consistent results that patients describe as natural, balanced, and undetectable.

The Vertical Restore® Gallery

A Return to Yourself

Explore our gallery of patient transformations achieved through Dr. Karam’s Vertical Restore®: structural restoration, balanced volume, and refined contours that refresh the face while maintaining natural movement and identity.

View Gallery

Ready to Schedule a Consultation?

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The KaramMD® Trifecta KaramMD®

Simple to start, impossible to give up.

With decades spent transforming facial plastic surgery, Dr. Karam brings the same level of innovation to skincare.

Learn About The KaramMD® Trifecta

I believe I’ve finally found the secret to anti-aging. Skincare is more than simply the products you use. It’s a holistic approach and daily self-care practice. It’s a dedication to using a proven, effective routine every day, and doing that consistently over time that truly achieves lasting, youthful results.

Dr. Amir Karam

woman putting skincare on her face KaramMD skincare

Expert-Led Insights Over 20 years of treating facial aging at the highest level.

Take Dr. Karam's Skin Assessment and get a personalized plan built around your routine.


Get My Personalized Skin Plan

The Routine
You Won’t Quit

The KaramMD® Trifecta is an award-winning formula, designed for the long haul.

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Clinically Proven to
Deliver Visible Results

Clinically Proven to
Deliver Visible Results

After 6 weeks, 100% of users saw reduced fine lines, with 91% reporting firmer skin.

KaramMD skincare 02
A Complete Routine in Three Steps

A Complete Routine in Three Steps

Over 20 clinically proven skin actives for skin renewal, distilled into a simple morning and evening ritual.

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Consistency Made Simple

Consistency Made Simple

Because the Trifecta is so easy to use, patients actually stick with it–and that’s what makes it work.

Dr. Karam, best facial plastic surgeon in San Diego 04
Developed by a Facial Plastic Surgeon

Developed by a Facial Plastic Surgeon

A proprietary system developed from the ground up, not a white label product line.

KaramMD® Journal: A Weekly Journal on Aging Well“In my weekly journal, I explain facial aging, skin quality, and long-term vitality. The journal is purely educational. There's no selling, just clarity.”

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Facial Aging media

Facial Aging Over Time

Decade

The 20s

Goal

Protect existing skin quality and avoid unnecessary intervention before any structural aging begins.

Prioritize

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Daily broad-spectrum sun protection without exception

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Gentle cleansing and support of the skin barrier

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Targeted acne management when clinically indicated

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Simple, consistent routines over product experimentation

Avoid

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Trend-driven skincare routines or excessive product layering

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Energy-based treatments without a clear indication

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Over-treatment of skin that does not require correction

Facial Aging media

Facial Aging Over Time

Decade

The 30s

Goal

Preserve collagen and maintain skin quality before visible aging becomes established.

Prioritize

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Daily sun protection as a non-negotiable baseline

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Introduction of retinoids for collagen support and turnover

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Barrier support and hydration to maintain resilience

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Antioxidants such as vitamin C for environmental protection

Avoid

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Overcomplicating routines with unnecessary products

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Relying on devices instead of foundational skincare

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Aggressive treatments without a clear clinical need

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Facial Aging Over Time

Decade

40-45

Goal

Address early changes in texture, tone, and subtle structural shifts with restraint.

Prioritize

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Consistent use of core skincare actives without interruption

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Neuromodulators, when appropriate, for dynamic lines

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Selective treatments for pigmentation or texture concerns

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Early, conservative structural support when indicated

Avoid

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Using filler to compensate for early tissue descent

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Over-reliance on energy devices for lifting

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Overcorrection that disrupts natural facial balance

Facial Aging media

Facial Aging Over Time

Decade

45-55

Goal

Recognize and address structural aging with appropriate, timely intervention.

Prioritize

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Continued commitment to foundational skincare and sun protection

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Thoughtful use of neuromodulators and conservative filler

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Evaluation of structural changes beyond surface-level treatments

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Planning for surgical solutions when non-surgical options plateau

Avoid

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Masking deeper aging changes with repeated filler treatments

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Delaying necessary structural intervention

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Expecting skincare alone to correct tissue descent

Facial Aging media

Facial Aging Over Time

Decade

55-65

Goal

Restore facial structure and maintain results through a comprehensive, balanced approach.

Prioritize

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Surgical intervention, when appropriate, to address true tissue descent

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Strategic fat transfer to restore natural volume loss

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Ongoing skincare to maintain skin quality post-procedure

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Long-term consistency in both skin and structural care

Avoid

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Overfilling as a substitute for structural correctio

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Repeated non-surgical treatments with diminishing returns

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Inconsistent maintenance following surgical outcomes

Facial Aging media

Facial Aging Over Time

Decade

65+

Goal

Preserve results, maintain skin health, and support long-term facial harmony.

Prioritize

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Continued daily sun protection and core skincare actives

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Conservative maintenance of surgical results over time

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Skin quality optimization to support overall appearance

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Consistency in routine rather than escalation of treatments

Avoid

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Over-treatment that disrupts natural appearance

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Aggressive or unnecessary procedures

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Inconsistent care that compromises long-term outcomes

One word to describe Dr. Karam is professionalism!

How welcome he made me feel since day one, when I was only looking for information, his bedside manners at the time of surgery, his energy, and his personality make me feel so secure in every singl...

How welcome he made me feel since day one, when I was only looking for information, his bedside manners at the time of surgery, his energy, and his personality make me feel so secure in every single visit before and after surgery. He always makes sure that all of my questions are answered, until this day, and I am 4 1/2 months out, I have no complaints, his work is ART, he is just AMAZING, and his hands are blessed! Until this day, I still follow and look at other doctors, and there is not one day I have felt any doubts. I truly believe I chose the BEST Face surgeon and would do it again and again.

Patient

Doctor Karam and his team are outstanding in every area.

From the first phone call I made to inquire about a Vertical Restore, every team member was professional, personable, genuine, prompt, and communicative. I have been in private business for more th...

From the first phone call I made to inquire about a Vertical Restore, every team member was professional, personable, genuine, prompt, and communicative. I have been in private business for more than 30 years. I understand how to build a team and I know a good team when I see one. Dr. Karam has succeeded on all fronts in creating an amazing team. I applaud his leadership. Embarking on this procedure can be daunting. Dr. Karam and his team made this journey very comfortable. I had the utmost confidence that I would receive amazing care and that the skills of Dr. Karam are the very best. Thank you, Dr. Karam. And thank you to your awesome team.

Patient

My surgery experience with Dr. Karam and his team was excellent.

My surgery experience with Dr. Karam and his team was excellent. I waited a year to have my surgery with him. He’s well worth the wait. I was hesitant to undergo surgery because of some of th...

My surgery experience with Dr. Karam and his team was excellent. I waited a year to have my surgery with him. He’s well worth the wait. I was hesitant to undergo surgery because of some of the results I’ve seen from less qualified surgeons who have not specialized in facial surgery only, and who do a horizontal lift instead of Dr. Karam’s vertical lift procedure. He and his team provided videos and support materials that answer questions both pre- and post-surgery (even a spreadsheet of significant events; who doesn’t love a spreadsheet!), and they are always available to answer questions and meet with you even over the weekend to ensure your easy progress in week 1 post-surgery. It’s an almost painless procedure, even when undergoing multiple procedures at once. I’m so happy to have chosen Dr. Karam and his team!

Patient

I had a full face rejuvenation with Dr. Karam and his team.

I turned 50 today. A little over one year ago, as a present to myself, I had a full face rejuvenation with Dr. Karam and his team. Based upon 18 months of research, I would only go to 4 facial plas...

I turned 50 today. A little over one year ago, as a present to myself, I had a full face rejuvenation with Dr. Karam and his team. Based upon 18 months of research, I would only go to 4 facial plastic surgeons in the world, and Dr. Karam is one of them. I consider the work I have done as an investment in myself. I had a full face fat transfer, upper and lower blepharoplasty, deep plane neck lift, and full face lift. I do not have movie star looks, but in my biased opinion, I can easily pass for 38 years old.

Patient

His signature Vertical Restore creates a natural, youthful look.

I did a lot of research before deciding on Dr. Karam for my procedures. It was a big decision to make and a big investment, but now I can say with complete honesty that it was the best decision and...

I did a lot of research before deciding on Dr. Karam for my procedures. It was a big decision to make and a big investment, but now I can say with complete honesty that it was the best decision and I have no regrets. I am so pleased with the outcome and how much more youthful I look. I look much more like how I always felt inside- younger, more vibrant- my face now matches my healthy and fit lifestyle. Dr Karam is so warm and caring- he listened to me and my concerns before the surgery. And his staff was really the icing on the cake- supportive, available by phone day or night, and nurturing in their office care. I especially must thank and give my appreciation to Tina, Taisha, and Taylor, who were my anchors in this new storm on day 1 after surgery and beyond, while my body tried to adjust and start to heal from surgery. Tina even wanted photo updates after I had returned home, and was so encouraging, positive, and reassuring. I can’t thank everyone enough and have such immense gratitude. Big hugs to them all and especially to Dr. Karam’s expertise and artistry. His signature Vertical Restore creates a natural, youthful look. Since returning to my life, no one has questioned, “Did you have a facelift?” The outcome is unlike any other “facelift” I have seen—really, I don’t even consider this a facelift- he is an artist, and our face is his canvas to create a work of art the world will gaze on and admire in our newfound youthful beauty.

Patient

I totally trust his approach and recommendations

I had a Vertical Restore at age 65 with Dr. Amir Karam. It has been a little over a year, and I am delighted with the results. Some of my friends have not even noticed—I just look reste...

I had a Vertical Restore at age 65 with Dr. Amir Karam. It has been a little over a year, and I am delighted with the results. Some of my friends have not even noticed—I just look rested. Dr. Karam will provide you with all the information and supplements that you need to make the procedure and the recovery time as comfortable as possible. I usually bruise very easily, but with the supplements that were given to me prior to my procedure and afterwards, my bruises were gone within a week. I highly recommend Dr. Karam and would go back to him for anything I might want done in the future. I totally trust his approach and recommendations. You won't be disappointed!

F. M.

Dr. Karam is an incredibly talented Surgeon

I'm one month out from a Vertical Restore with Dr. Karam. Dr. Karam is an incredibly talented Surgeon. I can barely see my scars already. I also did a laser peel, and within 8 days, I was wea...

I'm one month out from a Vertical Restore with Dr. Karam. Dr. Karam is an incredibly talented Surgeon. I can barely see my scars already. I also did a laser peel, and within 8 days, I was wearing makeup and admiring my new jawline and neck. I'm 65 this month and so happy I chose him. He is the best there is. His staff is fun, caring, and kind. They made my entire experience so easy. I would not hesitate or even think about going anywhere else. Check out his Instagram account. He does all his content himself. Extremely informative, with many before and after photos. I decided on Dr. Karam after researching his Instagram and had made my decision before we had even met.

K. R.

I would highly recommend him to anyone

Dr. Karam is a great surgeon, a true artist, and a wonderful human being. He has done 2 procedures on me over the last 3 years, both with excellent results. His fat transfer and his lip lift ...

Dr. Karam is a great surgeon, a true artist, and a wonderful human being. He has done 2 procedures on me over the last 3 years, both with excellent results. His fat transfer and his lip lift technique are extraordinary. I wouldn't think of going to anyone else, and I would highly recommend him to anyone who is looking for the best.

J. S.
Read All Testimonials

Dr. Amir Karam

The Founding of a Practice

After completing his residency and fellowship training, Dr. Karam established his practice in Carmel Valley, San Diego, with the goal of focusing solely on facial rejuvenation.

Exclusive Focus on the Face

From the beginning, Dr. Karam committed his career to facial plastic surgery alone, setting himself apart from general plastic surgeons by refining one specialty with unmatched consistency.

Creation of Vertical Restore

Through thousands of facelift surgeries, Dr. Karam developed the Vertical Restore™ procedure — a comprehensive, vertically oriented lift that restores the brow, midface, jawline, and neck all at once.

Development of KaramMD Trifecta

Building on his surgical philosophy, Dr. Karam launched the Trifecta, a proprietary three-step skincare system designed to maintain and enhance youthful skin across all ages and skin types.

Global Recognition and Philanthropy

Today, Dr. Karam is recognized as one of the top facial plastic surgeons in the world, treating patients who travel from across the globe. He also dedicates time to charitable organizations, volunteering his surgical expertise to provide care for those most in need.

Meet Dr. Karam
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Creation of Vertical Restore media
Development of KaramMD Trifecta media
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The Patient Experience

Discovery & Education icon

Discovery & Education

Receive guidance on facial structure, aging patterns, and identity preservation.

Concierge Consultation icon

Concierge Consultation

Dr. Karam personally performs a full-face analysis to support your goals.

Travel Orchestration icon

Travel Orchestration

Our dedicated coordinators ensure predictable surgical planning.

Surgery Day icon

Surgery Day

Every Vertical Restore® is performed exclusively by Dr. Karam.

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Retreat Recovery

Recovery protocols are designed to protect long-term results.

Interviews & Articles

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A Facelift at 35? Why Younger Women Are Going Under the Knife Now

Read More about A Facelift at 35? Why Younger Women Are Going Under the Knife Now
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Woman, 53, Let Her Plastic Surgeon Husband Give Her a Dramatic Facelift. She Reveals the Shocking Price Tag (Exclusive)

Read More about Woman, 53, Let Her Plastic Surgeon Husband Give Her a Dramatic Facelift. She Reveals the Shocking Price Tag (Exclusive)

The Red Light Therapy Masks Dermatologists Recommend for Acne and Wrinkles

Read More about The Red Light Therapy Masks Dermatologists Recommend for Acne and Wrinkles
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The Beauty Products Aesthetician Sarah Akram Uses to the Last Drop

Read More about The Beauty Products Aesthetician Sarah Akram Uses to the Last Drop
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These Are the Best Treatments for Jowls According to a Cosmetic Dermatologist and Facial Plastic Surgeon

Read More about These Are the Best Treatments for Jowls According to a Cosmetic Dermatologist and Facial Plastic Surgeon
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How to Use Face Oils in Your Summer Skincare Routine

Read More about How to Use Face Oils in Your Summer Skincare Routine
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Platelet-Rich Fibrin Injections (PRF): The Benefits, Aftercare, and Results

Read More about Platelet-Rich Fibrin Injections (PRF): The Benefits, Aftercare, and Results
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Plastic surgeons reveal incredible 'Midwest Makeover' transformations as they hail new subtle surgery craze

Read More about Plastic surgeons reveal incredible 'Midwest Makeover' transformations as they hail new subtle surgery craze

'Why Wait?': 9 Women on Getting a Facelift in Their 40s

Read More about 'Why Wait?': 9 Women on Getting a Facelift in Their 40s
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The Beauty Products Aesthetician Sarah Akram Uses to the Last Drop

Read More about The Beauty Products Aesthetician Sarah Akram Uses to the Last Drop
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#328: Mastering Facial Rejuvenation: Botox, Fillers, Facelifts & Fundamentals with Dr. Amir Karam LONGEVITY with Nathalie Niddam

Read More about #328: Mastering Facial Rejuvenation: Botox, Fillers, Facelifts & Fundamentals with Dr. Amir Karam LONGEVITY with Nathalie Niddam

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