Business Details
39 Years
experience
Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon in Tampa, FL
At Ernesto J. Ruas, M.D, we specialize in cosmetic and reconstructive plastic surgery, dedicated to enhancing patients' quality of life through personalized care and transformative results. With over 35 years of experience, our practice combines state-of-the-art techniques with compassionate service, prioritizing open communication to address individual needs. Dr. Ruas, board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgeons, leads a team committed to excellence, offering procedures ranging from facial rejuvenation to complex pediatric reconstructive surgeries.Our practice emphasizes trust, transparency, and lifelong learning, reflected in our affiliations with leading medical institutions and participation in global humanitarian missions. We strive to deliver safe, ethical care while fostering lasting relationships with patients and their families.
Services
Breast Augmentation
Facelift
Rhinoplasty
Liposuction
Cleft Repair
Eyelid Surgery
Abdominoplasty
Brow Lift
Ear Reshaping
Dermal Fillers
Details
- Year established: 1987
Highlights and features
- Board-certified plastic surgeon with 35+ years of experience
- Personalized care blending cosmetic and complex reconstructive expertise
- Active participation in global medical missions for pediatric patients
- Affiliated with leading institutions like Johns Hopkins All Children's Hospital
- Comprehensive pre- and post-operative support for optimal outcomes
Associations and certifications
- American Board of Plastic Surgeons
- American Society of Plastic Surgeons
What people say
Exceptional surgeon
Life-changing results
Compassionate care
Natural-looking outcomes
Expertise in complex cases
Services
Breast Augmentation
Breast augmentation enhances breast size and shape using implants or fat transfer. Ideal for patients seeking proportionate contours, this procedure addresses congenital defects, post-pregnancy changes, or personal aesthetic goals. Our approach prioritizes natural-looking results while maintaining tissue health and long-term safety.
Facelift
Facelift surgery reduces visible aging signs by tightening facial muscles and removing excess skin. Targeting jowls, sagging cheeks, and neck laxity, this procedure restores youthful definition. We employ advanced techniques to ensure minimal scarring and durable, harmonious results aligned with patients' facial anatomy.
Cleft Lip Repair
Specialized reconstructive surgery for congenital cleft lip/palate defects. This multi-stage approach restores functional abilities like speech and eating while creating balanced facial aesthetics. Our team collaborates with pediatric specialists to support long-term developmental outcomes for young patients.
Liposuction
Liposuction removes stubborn fat deposits to sculpt targeted body areas like the abdomen, thighs, or arms. Using minimally invasive techniques, we achieve precise contouring for patients seeking improved proportions unresponsive to diet and exercise alone.
Rhinoplasty
Rhinoplasty reshapes the nose to improve aesthetics and/or function. Addressing congenital irregularities, trauma, or breathing impairments, our approach balances structural integrity with facial harmony. Both cosmetic and reconstructive techniques ensure natural, enduring results.
People
Ernesto J. Ruas
Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon
Dr. Ruas has practiced plastic surgery for over 35 years, specializing in craniofacial reconstruction and cosmetic procedures. He trained at Johns Hopkins and completed a craniofacial fellowship in Mexico City. He directs the USF Craniofacial Center and participates in global medical missions.
Cathy Conley
Practice Manager
Cathy has served as Practice Manager for 18 years, combining 15 years of prior craniofacial program experience. A certified plastic surgery nurse, she coordinates patient care while providing compassionate support throughout surgical journeys.
Rosa De La Cruz
Patient Care Liaison
Rosa has supported our practice since 2010, offering 22 years of medical field expertise. As a certified Spanish medical interpreter, she ensures clear communication while managing front-office operations with patient-centered professionalism.
Questions
What qualifications does Dr. Ruas hold?
Dr. Ruas is board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgeons and a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons, with 35+ years of experience.
What pediatric procedures are offered?
We specialize in cleft lip/palate repair, craniosynostosis correction, and treatment of congenital anomalies like hemangiomas and Pierre Robin Sequence.
What is the recovery time for a facelift?
Most patients require 2-3 weeks for initial recovery, with full results visible after 6-8 weeks, depending on individual healing patterns.
Are before-and-after photos available?
Yes, we provide extensive photo galleries showcasing transformations from breast augmentation, facial procedures, and pediatric reconstructive cases.
How are surgical costs determined?
Procedure costs vary based on complexity, anesthesia requirements, and facility fees. We provide personalized quotes during consultations.
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