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Dr. Kenneth Yu, MD - Board Certified Facial Plastic Surgeon in San Antonio, Texas

Dr. Kenneth Yu, MD

Board Certified Facial Plastic Surgeon

Otolaryngology
San Antonio, Texas
NPI: 1255317483· License: P2563 (TX) verify

24+ years of experience · self-reported

Industry payments (2024): $119 across 1 payment (what this means)
4.94(116 ratings)

Consultation $100 · waived with procedure

In Dr. Kenneth Yu's own words

How Dr. Kenneth Yu describes their own approach, from their Instagram posts. Each statement links to the original.

Approach

  • The first thing I tell patients is that these treatments are not competitors. They're designed to solve different problems
  • Because of these differences, there is no one-size-fits-all approach to facial rejuvenation
  • Dr. Kenneth Yu's practice aims for natural-looking facial rejuvenation, focusing on helping patients look like the best version of themselves while preserving their unique characteristics, rather than dramatic transformation or making them look 20 years old again.
  • The goal of facial rejuvenation should never be to add as much volume as possible. The goal is to identify what is causing the aging changes and select a treatment that addresses that specific concern

Technique

  • The practice emphasizes precision in lip filler application.

Consultation

  • Dr. Kenneth Yu's practice emphasizes the importance of a thorough consultation.

Recovery guidance

  • A mini facelift offers a quicker recovery compared to a full traditional facelift.

Results

  • Whether we’re targeting fine lines or pigment concerns, the goal is always the same: softer, more radiant skin that glows from within
  • The practice aims for natural harmony in lip filler results.

Statements are quoted or closely paraphrased from Dr. Kenneth Yu's own public posts and are their claims, not NavMDs' medical advice. Doctors can correct or remove any item via their claimed profile or support [at] navmds.com.

About

Dr. Kenneth Yu is a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon practicing in San Antonio, Texas. He emphasizes that natural facial rejuvenation restores deeper facial tissues that change with age, rather than simply pulling skin tighter. Modern facelift techniques, which he customizes for each patient, address the cheeks, jawline, and neck to achieve a rested, refreshed, and natural appearance that is never stretched or overdone, often going completely unnoticed as surgical. Dr. Yu also states that facial asymmetry is completely fixable. For lip fillers, his goal is better balance, enhancing shape, restoring volume, and improving symmetry with precision, ensuring soft, natural, and proportionate results without an overdone look. Dr. Yu views rhinoplasty as a blend of art and medicine, addressing both aesthetic goals and functional needs like breathing, aiming to bring balance to features without changing who a patient is. He offers procedures including mini facelifts, eyelid surgery, chemical peels, and hair transplant surgery, noting hair restoration is not one-size-fits-all.

Connect with Dr. Kenneth Yu on Social Media

SpecialtiesProceduresAverage CostReviewsIndustry PaymentsInsuranceLocationAffiliationsEducationFAQ

Specialties

  • Board Certified Facial Plastic Surgeon

Procedures & Services

Select a service to schedule an appointment · each is approximately 60 minutes

Average Cost of Surgery

Healthcare costs shouldn't be a mystery. Below, you'll find crowdsourced data on the actual costs of surgeries performed by Dr. Kenneth Yu, submitted anonymously by the patient community. Use this as a guide to better anticipate your own expenses. Please note that final costs can vary based on your specific medical needs.

Botox

$400

About typicalTypical in San Antonio: $290–$500 (median $400, 13 reports) compare ↗

Mini Facelift

$6,500

About typicalTypical nationally: $5,150–$8,800 (median $6,500, 55 reports) compare ↗

Lower Facelift

$9,000

About typicalTypical in Texas: $8,150–$17,350 (median $9,000, 8 reports) compare ↗

Help us keep this data current and accurate. If you've had a procedure with Dr. Kenneth Yu, please take a moment to contribute your cost information.

Questions, Answers, and Information Directly from Dr. Kenneth Yu

Sourced directly from Dr. Kenneth Yu's social posts and replies.

What are the indications for a brow lift?
A brow lift may be indicated if you experience drooping or lowered brows that alter your natural expression, a heavy or tired appearance around the eyes even when well-rested, or forehead lines from constantly raising your brows to help open up the eye area.
Source →
When should I consider a consultation for facial rejuvenation?
If you're unsure about the best option among procedures like a brow lift or eyelid surgery, a consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon is the best initial step to discuss your choices.
Source →
What are chemical peels and what can they achieve?
Chemical peels are a professional skin reset, using specialized solutions to gently remove dull surface cells, revealing healthier, smoother skin. They are suitable for addressing stubborn sun damage, uneven texture, or achieving a brighter, more refreshed complexion. Whether targeting fine lines or pigment concerns, the goal is softer, more radiant skin that glows from within. Treatments are always tailored to your specific skin needs for optimal results.
Source →
What is Dr. Yu's approach to hair loss treatment?
Dr. Yu believes you don’t have to simply accept changes in your hair, as treatment options are available. The right treatment starts with understanding what’s causing your hair loss and what may work for you. Hair transplant surgery is one such option offered.
Source →
What is Dr. Yu's philosophy for lip filler?
Dr. Yu's primary goal for lip filler is not to create bigger lips, but to achieve better balance, enhance shape, restore volume, and improve symmetry. He emphasizes precision to keep results soft, natural, and proportionate to your features, preventing an overdone appearance and aiming for natural harmony. Over-the-top volume is avoided unless specifically requested by the patient.
Source →
What are the indications and benefits of a mini facelift?
A mini facelift is indicated for patients experiencing early jowls, a slight loss of jawline definition, or mild sagging in the lower face. It targets the lower face and neck with smaller incisions and offers a quicker recovery compared to a full traditional facelift. Dr. Yu considers it the 'sweet spot' for patients who want a refreshed, natural lift without the downtime of a full traditional facelift.
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What is the difference between Upper and Lower Blepharoplasty?
Upper Blepharoplasty focuses on the upper eyelid, removing excess skin and tiny bits of fat to create a lighter, more open, and rested look, especially when extra skin hoods over the lash line or affects peripheral vision. Lower Blepharoplasty targets under-eye bags, puffiness, and dark hollows, often redistributing or gently removing underlying fat to smooth the transition from the lower eyelid to the cheek. Both can be combined for total eye rejuvenation or performed separately based on individual goals, with the ultimate aim of making eyes look as refreshed as they feel.
Source →
What is Dr. Yu's philosophy on hair restoration?
Dr. Yu emphasizes that hair restoration is not a one-size-fits-all treatment, requiring a personalized approach.
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What are the differences between FUE and FUT hair transplant methods?
FUE (Follicular Unit Extraction) removes individual hair follicles from the donor area and transplants them into areas of thinning, using smaller individual incisions at the donor site. It may be a good option for patients who prefer to wear their hair very short. FUT (Follicular Unit Transplantation), also known as the strip method, removes a narrow strip of hair from the donor area before individual follicles are carefully prepared and transplanted into thinning areas. This technique can allow for a larger number of viable grafts and natural-looking results.
Source →
How do fillers and facelifts differ in addressing facial aging?
Fillers and facelifts treat different signs of aging. While fillers can add volume, Dr. Yu emphasizes that the true goal of facial rejuvenation is selecting the correct treatment for specific changes, not merely adding volume. Sagging skin cannot always be corrected with filler alone; a facelift restores facial structure and defines the jawline. Many patients continue to benefit from fillers even after a facelift to complement results. Dr. Yu also explains what causes an 'overfilled' look to help patients avoid it.
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What is the typical recovery timeline for a facelift?
Facelift recovery is often more manageable than expected. * **Days 1-3:** Expect swelling, tightness, and mild discomfort, easily managed with prescribed medication. Patients should rest quietly at home with their head elevated. * **Days 7-10:** Sutures are removed, bruising begins to fade into soft yellows and greens, and light makeup can usually be worn. * **Weeks 2-3:** Most residual swelling is easily camouflaged, and patients typically feel ready for low-key social outings, errands, or returning to work. * **Month 1:** Light exercises like walking are permissible, and patients start feeling much more like their everyday self, just with a refreshed, glowing look. * **Months 3-6:** Deep tissues continue to settle, minor stiffness completely dissolves, and scars fade into practically invisible lines. This is when the ultimate, natural results truly shine. Dr. Yu emphasizes that taking the time to rest during recovery is as important as the procedure itself.
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What can rhinoplasty achieve, and what is Dr. Yu's philosophy?
Dr. Yu views rhinoplasty as a powerful blend of art and medicine, addressing both aesthetic goals and functional needs. Functionally, it can correct a deviated septum, repair structural issues, and open nasal passages to improve breathing and sleep. Aesthetically, it can smooth a dorsal hump, refine or lift a drooping nasal tip, narrow a nasal bridge, or straighten a crooked nose. It also helps restore nasal form and function following injury or previous medical procedures. Dr. Yu's philosophy is that a great rhinoplasty is never about changing who you are, but about bringing balance to your features and ensuring your nose looks and feels its best.
Source →

From Dr. Kenneth Yu's Instagram

@dryu_plasticsurgery →

Recent photos posted by @dryu_plasticsurgery, Dr. Kenneth Yu's own Instagram account. Each image opens the original post on Instagram.

Images © Dr. Kenneth Yu / @dryu_plasticsurgery, shown here with a link to the original post. Procedure labels are inferred from the post's caption and hashtags. If you are the account owner and want an image removed, contact support [at] navmds.com.

Patient Experience

Dr. Kenneth Yu Review Summary

4.86
Dr. Yu has exceptional ratings across various platforms. He boasts a perfect 5.0 from patients and similar scores on US News and Facebook. Healthgrades gives him a 4.8, and Google reviewers rate him a near-perfect 4.9. Overall, patients consistently praise his expertise and results.

Ratings from Other Platforms

facebook.com

5 out of 5

Based on 18 reviews

View on facebook.com

health.usnews.com

5 out of 5

Based on 242 reviews

View on health.usnews.com

healthgrades.com

4.8 out of 5

Based on 58 reviews

View on healthgrades.com

Google Reviews

4.9 out of 5

Based on 144 reviews

View on Google Reviews
Dr. Kenneth Yu, MD - Board Certified Facial Plastic Surgeon in San Antonio, Texas

Main Office

23119 W I-10 Building 11, San Antonio, Texas

(210) 876-6868

Book a Service Consultation

Consultation $100 · waived with booked procedure

Each service is approximately 60 minutes.

+2 more

Industry Payments

Federal law (the Physician Payments Sunshine Act) requires drug and medical-device companies to report anything of value they give to a physician — consulting and speaking fees, research funding, travel, royalties, and even meals. Medicare publishes all of it in a public database called Open Payments. We show it here so you don't have to go looking for it.

Total received (2024)

$119

Payments

1

Compared to peers

Small

Dr. Kenneth Yu received $119 across 1 payment in 2024. That is in the lower half for physicians here — totals this size are typically meals at sponsored talks. Most of it was categorised as food and beverage, and the largest single payer was Galderma Laboratories, L.P..

What this means for your care

  • A disclosed payment is a business relationship, not evidence of wrongdoing, and it says nothing on its own about the quality of your care.
  • Most payments are small. Across the physicians listed on NavMDs, the single most common category is food and beverage at industry-sponsored talks.
  • Larger consulting, speaking or royalty payments mean an ongoing financial relationship with a company whose products your doctor may use or recommend. That is worth knowing about, and it is reasonable to ask about.
  • A fair question to ask: “Do you have a financial relationship with the maker of the implant, filler or device you're recommending — and what alternatives did you consider?”

Source: CMS Open Payments, the federal database created by the Sunshine Act. View the full record on CMS Open Payments ↗

Insurance Information

Please contact Dr. Kenneth Yu's office directly for information about accepted insurance plans.

Phone: (210) 876-6868

Help us improve this profile

Do you know which insurance plans Dr. Kenneth Yu accepts? Share this information to help other patients.

Location & Contact Information

Main Office

23119 W I-10 Building 11

San Antonio, Texas 78257

Get Directions

Office Information

Phone: (210) 876-6868

Where does Dr. Kenneth Yu practice?

Doctor's Office

Main Office (Primary)

23119 W I-10 Building 11, San Antonio, Texas 78257

(16 reviews)

Hospital Affiliations

Hospital affiliations unknown

Do you know which hospitals Dr. Kenneth Yu is affiliated with? This information helps patients understand where they might receive care.

Education & Experience

Education

Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School Of Medicine
Bachelors And Masters Degrees From Stanford University

Certifications & Licenses

Board Certified Facial Plastic Surgeon
Double-board Certified Plastic Surgeon
Double Board Certified Facial Plastic And Reconstructive Surgeon
Md, Facs
Board Certified Emergency Physician

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you make an appointment with Dr. Kenneth Yu online?
The provided information doesn't confirm whether online appointment booking is available. It's best to contact the office directly at (210) 876-6868 or check his website/social media for booking options.
Does Dr. Kenneth Yu offer telehealth?
The provided information doesn't specify whether Dr. Yu offers telehealth services. Contacting his office directly is recommended for clarification.
What do patients have to say about Dr. Kenneth Yu?
Patients consistently describe Dr. Yu as professional, skilled, and experienced. They are thrilled with their natural-looking results and highly recommend him. Many highlight his kindness and trustworthiness, with some even mentioning comfortable procedures.
What areas of care does Dr. Kenneth Yu cater to?
Dr. Yu's primary area of care is facial plastic and reconstructive surgery. This includes procedures like facelifts (mini and lower), rhinoplasty, eyelid surgery, lip lifts, nonsurgical nose jobs, Botox, lip fillers, and Voluma injections. He also performs reconstructive surgeries, though the specifics aren't detailed in the provided information. Dr. Yu's approach to natural facial rejuvenation focuses on restoring deeper facial tissues that change with age, rather than simply pulling skin tighter. Modern facelift techniques address the cheeks, jawline, and neck, aiming to preserve a patient's unique features for a rested, refreshed, and natural appearance, never stretched or overdone. He emphasizes that modern facelift surgery is significantly different from older 'tight, stretched' facelifts, focusing on restoring facial anatomy and deeper tissues (like the SMAS) rather than just pulling skin. Dr. Yu believes every facelift should be customized to the individual, aiming for natural, refreshed results that often go completely unnoticed as surgical. Dr. Yu also addresses facial asymmetry, which he states is completely fixable.