Making the decision to undergo plastic surgery is deeply personal—and choosing the right surgeon is one of the most important parts of that journey. Whether you’re considering breast augmentation, a facelift, or a body contouring procedure, your results and safety depend heavily on who you trust to perform the surgery. It’s not just about credentials; it’s about feeling seen, understood, and confident in the hands of someone who genuinely cares.
At The Julian Institute of Plastic Surgery, we meet so many individuals who have done extensive research but still feel uncertain about who to choose. That’s why we want to walk you through not only what to look for in a plastic surgeon but also what makes our approach and team so unique.
Credentials Matter—But Go Deeper
Not all plastic surgeons are created equal. A board-certified plastic surgeon has completed the extensive education, training, and exams necessary to practice plastic surgery safely and ethically. But even with credentials, not every surgeon offers the same level of experience or artistry.
When doing your research, make sure to check for:
- Board Certification in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery: This confirms the surgeon has undergone specialized training and meets rigorous standards in the field.
- Experience in the Specific Procedure You’re Considering: Someone who specializes in breast reconstruction may not be the best fit for facial rejuvenation, and vice versa.
- Before-and-After Photo Galleries: These give you real insight into their style, skill, and consistency.
Don’t Skip the Consultation—It Says More Than You Think
One of the most telling parts of your experience will be your consultation. This is your time to ask questions, discuss your concerns, and see how the surgeon communicates. Are they rushing you? Or do they take the time to understand your goals?
During your consultation, you should feel:
- Heard and not judged
- Informed but not pressured
- Comfortable enough to share your honest concerns
The best surgeons will help guide you to the right procedure for you, even if it’s not the one you originally considered.
Aesthetic Vision and Artistry Go Beyond Technique
Plastic surgery isn’t just about skill—it’s about vision. You’re not a template, and your surgeon shouldn’t treat you like one. The best results come from someone who understands the subtle difference between what looks done and what looks right for you. It’s about the little things—how your cheekbones flow into your jawline, how your profile moves when you smile, how balance and proportion make all the difference.
This is where artistry comes in. A great plastic surgeon has the technical expertise to perform your procedure safely—but also the creative eye to sculpt natural-looking results that highlight your individuality. Whether it’s a breast lift, a rhinoplasty, or a body contouring procedure, your outcome should feel like you—just refreshed, refined, and more confident.
So as you look through before-and-after photos, don’t just scan for big changes. Look for harmony. Look for patients who look like themselves—just more confident. That’s the kind of aesthetic vision that will serve you best.
A Surgeon Who Sets Realistic Expectations is Looking Out for You
It’s easy to get caught up in the perfect glow-ups you see on social media or reality TV, but plastic surgery isn’t about chasing perfection—it’s about discovering what’s possible for you. The right surgeon won’t try to sell you on an ideal that doesn’t make sense for your body or lifestyle. Instead, they’ll meet you where you are and talk you through your options honestly and thoroughly.
This means they’ll walk you through not just the benefits, but the limitations. They’ll talk openly about healing time, what kind of results you can realistically expect, and what it will take to maintain them. They’ll make sure you’re mentally and emotionally ready for surgery—and never pressure you into a procedure just because it’s trending or profitable.
Realistic expectations don’t mean settling for less. They mean making informed, empowered decisions. A surgeon who tells you the truth—even when it’s not what you expected—is the one who’s truly in your corner.
Meet the Dream Team Behind the Results
Finding one great plastic surgeon can feel like striking gold—so imagine walking into a clinic and discovering two. At The Julian Institute of Plastic Surgery, patients have the rare advantage of working with not just one board-certified expert, but a dynamic duo of highly trained surgeons who bring unique strengths, shared values, and decades of combined experience to the table.
Dr. Marc Polecritti and Dr. Derek Polecritti aren’t just respected names in the field—they’re brothers with a deep commitment to patient care, artistic precision, and natural-looking results. Their collaborative approach means that every patient benefits from more insight, more support, and more personalized attention. Together, they’ve created a practice where exceptional outcomes and heartfelt care go hand in hand.
Dr. Marc Polecritti: Precision, Passion, and Experience
Dr. Marc Polecritti, D.O., founded The Julian Institute of Plastic Surgery with a commitment to providing world-class plastic and reconstructive surgery right here in Florida. Double board-certified in both Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and General Surgery, Dr. Polecritti brings a rare blend of surgical skill and compassionate care to every patient he sees.
He completed his plastic surgery fellowship through the Cleveland Clinic Health System, served as Chief Resident, and is affiliated with several top hospitals in the region. Whether you’re looking for reconstructive breast surgery, body contouring after weight loss, or facial rejuvenation, his extensive training and sharp aesthetic eye ensure you’re in expert hands.
Dr. Polecritti’s dedication to patients runs deep—so much so that he named the clinic after his son, Julian, symbolizing youthful restoration and lasting legacy.
Dr. Derek Polecritti: Innovation and Heart
Following in his brother’s footsteps, Dr. Derek Polecritti, D.O., joined the practice to expand what’s possible for patients seeking cosmetic or reconstructive care. Board-certified in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Dr. Derek trained at UPMC and completed a highly competitive fellowship in Plastic, Reconstructive, and Hand Surgery at Mercy Medical Center in Iowa.
Dr. Derek has been a featured presenter at national conferences, has contributed to textbook chapters on facial plastic surgery, and continues to research topics like breast implant illness and advanced reconstruction techniques. He brings innovation and a thoughtful, personalized approach to every patient he works with.
Together, the Polecritti brothers make up a rare duo—offering a balance of technical expertise, artistry, and deep compassion that patients instantly recognize.
What We Offer: High-Demand Procedures That Change Lives
Our practice offers a wide range of surgical options, and we’re proud to focus on the procedures our patients ask for the most. Whether you’re a mom looking to reclaim your pre-baby body or someone ready to enhance your profile, we’re here to help you feel empowered.
Popular Breast Procedures
From subtle enhancements to complex reconstructions, our breast procedures are designed to align with your body and goals:
- Breast Augmentation
- Breast Lift
- Breast Reduction
- Implant Removal (Explant)
- Breast Reconstruction
- Male Breast Reduction
- Transgender Top Surgery
In-Demand Body Contouring Services
Body procedures at The Julian Institute focus on reshaping and restoring your figure with advanced techniques and personalized plans:
- Liposuction and VaserLipo
- Tummy Tuck
- Arm Lift and Thigh Lift
- Belt Lipectomy
- Mommy Makeover
- Vaginal Rejuvenation and Labiaplasty
Signature Facial Surgeries for Natural-Looking Results
Facial surgery requires a fine touch and a deep understanding of balance. Our team offers procedures that enhance your natural beauty, not mask it.
- Facelifts and Neck Lifts
- Eyelid Surgery
- Brow Lift
- Chin Augmentation
- Chin Liposuction
- Earlobe Repair
- Nose Surgery
We customize each procedure to ensure the results complement your unique features and personality. For a full look at our procedures, click here.
Choosing Us Means Choosing Experience, Compassion, and Results
We don’t take your trust lightly. At The Julian Institute of Plastic Surgery, every patient is treated like part of the family. That means you’ll get:
- A personalized consultation that focuses on your needs—not a sales pitch
- Honest recommendations about which procedure is best for your body
- A comfortable, modern clinic environment designed for safety and support
- Access to two of Florida’s top surgeons, each with advanced training and a compassionate bedside manner
- A full support team that’s with you every step of the way—from consult to recovery
Let’s Talk About What’s Possible for You: Schedule a Consultation Today!
The right plastic surgeon doesn’t just deliver great results—they help you feel great during the entire process. If you’re ready to explore what’s possible and want guidance from a team who listens, understands, and delivers—we’d love to meet you.
At The Julian Institute of Plastic Surgery, we’re proud to offer a level of care and attention that goes beyond expectations. Whether you’re at the beginning of your research or ready to schedule, our team is here to help guide the way.
Schedule your consultation today and take the next step toward feeling more confident, more refreshed, and more you.
