Featuring You: Meet Dr. Brandon Richland

1. Your career is widely admired in the field of plastic surgery. Can you take us back to the moment you knew this was your calling—and what inspired you to pursue it so relentlessly?

I knew plastic surgery was my calling during my medical school surgical training, where I saw firsthand how the practice can blend science, precision, attention to detail (which is a strength of mine) with artistry to truly change lives. I was drawn to the creativity it requires and the emotional impact it has on patients. Earning top honors during medical school and residency only fueled my drive to refine my skills and innovate, and today, helping my patients feel confident is what continues to inspire me every day. My business mission is to provide the highest level of quality care to my patients, but my inspiration has always been my father…he is the man who has made me the man I am today.

2. Richland Aesthetics has grown significantly in recent years, with practices now open in OC, LA, Las Vegas and coming soon to Newport Beach. What’s been the driving vision behind that expansion, and what sets your approach apart from other aesthetic practices?

The vision behind our growth has always been about bringing high-level, personalized aesthetic care to more people. What sets Richland Aesthetics and RichlandMD apart is our commitment to natural results and patient trust. Every treatment plan is custom, and our techniques are designed to enhance, not alter, so patients still look like themselves, just more confident.

3. Plastic surgery is often misunderstood. How do you balance the art of transformation with the ethics of helping patients feel confident without chasing unrealistic ideals?

For me, plastic surgery is about enhancing your natural features to help you look like the best version of yourself. I focus on guiding my patients toward realistic and healthy goals to ensure every transformation builds confidence from the inside out rather than chasing perfection.

4. Many people see the end result, but not the years of training and sacrifice. What challenges have shaped you the most as a surgeon and entrepreneur?

Residency was definitely one of the most challenging periods of my life: physically, mentally, and emotionally. Long hours, constant pressure to

perform, and the pursuit of surgical excellence taught me resilience and grit. That foundation helped shape who I am today as a surgeon and a business leader… even as a father and husband to my beautiful wife!

5. You’ve built an elevated, luxury brand rooted in both innovation and trust. How do you ensure every patient experience at Richland Aesthetics reflects those values?

Thank you! Yes, we focus on creating an experience that’s both personal and refined, from the first consultation to the final results. Our entire team is trained to prioritize comfort, transparency, and respect, and we invest in the most advanced, proven technologies to deliver world-class outcomes people have come to trust.

6. With advances in AI, imaging, and minimally invasive procedures, how is technology shaping the future of aesthetic medicine, and how are you integrating that at your practice? Technology is revolutionizing aesthetic medicine, and AI in particular is playing a key role in how we consult, operate, and care for patients. At Richland Aesthetics, we use AI-driven imaging to help patients visualize their potential results, which improves communication and helps to set clear expectations. Other recent advances in AI include enhancing precision and safety in the operating room, and in post-op care, AI can help monitor recovery and detect complications earlier. While some people have concerns about AI, we see it as a tool that enhances, but does not replace the surgeon’s expertise…ultimately leading to better outcomes and actually, more personalized experiences.

7. We’re seeing more celebrities openly embracing cosmetic enhancements, and shaping beauty trends in the process. How have celebrity aesthetics influenced patient requests, and which trends do you think are worth watching or avoiding? Celebrity culture definitely influences what people ask for, from defined jawlines to sculpted midsections, but I always emphasize the importance of tailoring treatments to the individual. Trends come and go, but natural, balanced results that age well will always be in style!

8. As a leader in your field, how do you stay grounded and focused while growing a thriving practice and mentoring the next generation of surgeons? I stay grounded by remembering my “why”: my patients, my passion for the craft, and most importantly, my family. My wife Jessica is not only my partner in life but also in our practice, and her support helps keep everything in balance, especially as we raise our young son Cade. I make it a priority to protect our family time, whether it's sitting down for dinner, playing before bedtime, or taking evening walks together with our two dogs. Those simple moments bring me back to what truly matters. That foundation gives me the clarity and energy to grow the practice, stay focused on my patients, and mentor the next generation of surgeons while continuing to learn and evolve myself.

9. Looking ahead, what’s next for you and for Richland Aesthetics? Any new treatments, locations, or personal milestones on the horizon?

How can people get in contact with you?

We’re excited to expand by opening our 4th Richland Aesthetics location in Newport Beach and continue bringing cutting-edge, natural looking aesthetic care to more cities. Personally, I look forward to new adventures with my family and watching my son grow. You can follow our journey on Instagram @Dr.Richland and connect with us at www.richlandmd.com. Thank you!