James Fernau, MD, FACS

Dr. James Fernau is a double board-certified plastic surgeon with 30 years of experience in aesthetic, plastic and reconstructive surgery. He is a second-generation physician known for his expertise, patient-centered approach and commitment to surgical innovation and safety.

Dr. Fernau’s medical journey began at the University of Wyoming, where he graduated summa cum laude, followed by earning his medical degree from the University of Utah in the top 10% of his class. He completed dual residencies in Otolaryngology/Head & Neck Surgery and Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, gaining extensive experience in craniofacial, microsurgical and reconstructive procedures under esteemed mentors such as Dr. Louis Morales and Dr. Graham Lister.

An internationally-recognized expert, Dr. Fernau specializes in a wide range of surgical procedures, including advanced body contouring, breast augmentation, facial implants, and male enhancement surgeries. He is also a leader in cutting-edge techniques such as Renuvion radiofrequency tightening, SAFE liposuction, and NeoGraft hair restoration.

Dedicated to patient safety, Dr. Fernau has served as chair of patient safety for both The Aesthetic Society and the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery. He has published extensively on surgical advancements, patient safety protocols, and innovative techniques in aesthetic surgery. His contributions to the field have earned him multiple awards, including The Aesthetic Society’s Robert Singer Award and numerous recognitions for excellence in cosmetic surgery.

Prior to joining Marshall Health, Dr. Fernau owned a private Pittsburgh practice, Accent on Body Cosmetic Surgery. Dr. Fernau is known for his exceptional patient care, with hundreds of five-star reviews and a strong following of satisfied patients worldwide. His passion for education extends to mentoring future surgeons, publishing scientific research and continually advancing the field of plastic surgery.

Education & Training

• Medical School: The University of Utah (Salt Lake City, UT)
• Internship: Mount Carmel Medical Center - General Surgery (Columbus, OH)
• Residency: The University of Utah - Plastic Surgery (Salt Lake City, UT)
• Residency: University of Pittsburgh - Otolaryngology (Pittsburgh, PA)
• Fellowship: Aesthetic Plastic Surgery under Richard A. Mladick, MD (Virginia Beach, VA)
• Fellowship: Brazillian Buttock Implants/Body Contouring under Raul Gonzalez, MD (Ribeirao Preto, Brazil)

Honors & Memberships

• Certificate, Aesthetic Society Certificate of Deep Appreciation for Serving as a faculty member of The Aesthetic Society's Premier Global Hot Topics (2020)
• Fellow, American College of Surgeons
• Recipient, American Society of Plastic Surgery Certificate of Special Recognition for Community Service and Volunteerism (2005)
• Recipient, ASAPS Certificate of Advanced Education in Cosmetic Surgery (2002-2015)
• Recipient, The Aesthetic Society Hot Topics Award/The Robert Singer Award for Best Hot Topics Presentation (2019)
• Recipient, The Aesthetic Society Special Award for Dedication to Member and Patient Safety During COVID-19 (2020-2021)

Certification

• Certified: American Board of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery
• Certified: American Board of Plastic Surgeons