Stephanie Farber, MD
Dr. Stephanie Farber is a board-certified plastic surgeon in Milton, GA. Confident in knowing that she was born to be a plastic surgeon, she has always committed herself to academic and artistic excellence. Today, her mission is to enhance her patients’ individual confidence through personalized, artful plastic surgery. She is deeply committed to her patients and her craft and prioritizes both the results and the journey— ensuring that patients experience a warm and welcoming environment where they feel understood, supported, and safe at each step of their transformations. She and her team believe that beauty should be empowering, and her goal is to help her patients realize their unique aesthetic goals and discover a version of themselves that they truly love.
An Artist and a Specialist
Dr. Farber specializes in both cosmetic and reconstructive surgery of the breasts, body, and face including breast augmentation, breast reduction, breast lift, and mommy makeover. She has an eye for beauty that has been refined through her training in plastic surgery and the fine arts. Dr. Farber is committed to making all of her Alpharetta and Atlanta area patients look and feel their best. She derives profound joy and fulfillment from seeing her patients glowing with renewed confidence following their treatments.
Though her aesthetic eye has been finely tuned to recognize perfect symmetry, balance, and proportions, Dr. Farber distinguishes herself from fellow plastic surgeons in her ability to tailor her surgical plan to her individual patients’ goals. She makes it her mission to listen to and appreciate each patient’s vision and to carefully plan and execute her operations to make this vision a reality.
Dr. Farber is especially passionate about using her unique skills to help moms regain their confidence and sense of self through their transformative plastic surgery journey. As a mother herself, Dr. Farber has a deep understanding of the physical and emotional changes that accompany motherhood. She truly feels that her unique perspective as a woman, a mom, and a plastic surgeon allows her to better relate to her patients and fully understand their goals.
“We want your confidence and happiness to outshine even the most beautiful surgical result.”
Dr. Stephanie Farber
Education and Training
Dr. Stephanie Farber completed her plastic surgery training at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, one of the top 3 plastic surgery training programs in the country. She was accepted into their integrated residency program—a competitive and demanding program that combines general surgery and plastic surgery into one residency. Each year, only about 150 residents nationally are selected for this track. After becoming Chief Resident, Dr. Farber continued to pursue additional, specialized training in aesthetic surgery with renowned plastic surgeons across the country to further refine her skills in breast surgery, body contouring, and facial rejuvenation.
Prior to her surgical training, Dr. Farber graduated with honors from Duke University after earning a degree in Chemistry. After that, she attended the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine on an academic scholarship. There, she was elected into Alpha Omega Alpha—the most prestigious medical honor society—and was awarded both the Plastic Surgery Award and the Pediatric Surgery Award for demonstrating excellence in each of these areas. She graduated Cum Laude after earning her spot as one of the top ten students in her medical school class.
While Dr. Farber attended some of the most prestigious programs and earned invaluable accolades, she also deeply understood that she got out of her medical school and training experiences what she put into them. Her conscious choice to seek out extra cases, work extra hours, and take extra calls was all in service to refine and perfect her skill so that she may now confidently offer the best possible care and results for her patients.
Education and Postgraduate Training
- University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Integrated Plastic Surgery Resident
- University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Doctor of Medicine
- Duke University, Bachelor of Science in Chemistry, Minor in Biological Science
Honors and Awards
- Best Plastic Surgeon; Best of Buckhead 2025
- Top Plastic Surgeon; Castle Connelly, Modern Luxury/Atlantan Magazine 2023, 2024, 2025
- Best Plastic Surgeon; Best of Sandy Springs 2021, 2022, 2023
- Rising Star Plastic Surgeon; Castle Connelly Top Doctors 2022, 2023
- Best Plastic Surgeon for Men; Best of Buckhead 2024
Podcast Spotlight
Discover the artistry at the heart of plastic surgery with Dr. Stephanie Farber, the newest member of the Thrive Medical Spa team. Dr. Farber brings a unique blend of creativity and medical expertise to the table, honed through her education at Duke University and medical school in Pittsburgh. Listen as she shares her inspiring journey from aspiring artist to a compassionate surgeon who transforms lives. Her passion for empowering mothers through personalized “mommy makeovers” is a testament to her dedication and skill. Learn what sets her apart from others in her field and the innovative techniques she employs to ensure each patient’s aesthetic journey is uniquely tailored to them.
Research and Public Engagement
Dr. Stephanie Farber has been a Medical Contributor for ABC News, where she authored articles on the latest medical news and provided medical insight for Good Morning America, World News Tonight, and other ABC News reporting.
Additionally, Dr. Farber is an accomplished researcher in the field of plastic surgery, having published and presented her work across the country. Her primary research interests include non-invasive rejuvenation techniques, body contouring surgery, breast surgery, and wound healing. Her research has caught the attention of the plastic surgery community and has won numerous awards, including the “Most Outstanding Clinical Paper,” the “Best Reconstructive Paper,” and the “Best Paper Published in the Scientific Literature.”
She is involved with plastic surgery on a national level through the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons and the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, where she is also a member of the Women Plastic Surgeons and Young Plastic Surgeons committees. Through these societies, she was invited to teach plastic surgery residents the skills and concepts of aesthetic plastic surgery at national training courses.
Peer-Reviewed Publications
- Farber S.E., Epps M.T., Brown E., Krochonis K., McConville R., and Codner M.A. “The Aging Face: Non-Surgical Techniques.” Plastic and Aesthetic Research. 2020;7.
- Farber S.E. and Codner M.A. “Evaluation and Management of Acquired Ptosis.” Plastic and Aesthetic Research. 2020;7.
- Farber S.E., Beidas O.E., Gusenoff B.R., Gusenoff J.A. “The Influence of Fat Grafting on Skin Quality in Cosmetic Foot Grafting: A Randomized, Cross-Over Clinical Trial.” Aesthetic Surgery Journal. 2019;39(4):405-412.
- Dreifuss S.E., Beidas O.E., Rubin J.P., Gusenoff J.A. “Characterizing the Saddlebag Deformity After Lower Body Lift.” Aesthetic Surgery Journal. 2018;38(10):1115-1123.
- Pfaff M., Morrison S., Rezzadeh K., Januszyk M., Delong M.R., Lee J.C., Rudkin G., Dreifuss S.E. (as part of The Integrated Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Resident Education Study Group). “Evaluation of the Integrated Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Prerequisite Core Surgical Training Experience: A Residents’ Perspective.” Annals of Plastic Surgery. 2018;81:475-481.
- Dreifuss S.E., Landfair A.S., De La Cruz C. “A Risk-Stratified Comparison of Incidental Findings in Reduction Mammoplasty.” Annals of Plastic Surgery. 2018;81(1):36-8.
- Guest R.A., Dalit A., Czerniak S., Dreifuss S.E., Schusterman M.A., Kenny E.M., Chernoff E.F., Barnett J.M., Koesarie K.R., Gusenoff J.A. “Heterogeneity in body contouring outcomes-based research: the Pittsburgh body contouring complication reporting system.” Aesthetic Surgery Journal. 2018;38(1):60-70.
- Morrison S.D., Chong H.J., Dy G.W., Grant D.W., Wilson S.C., Brower J.P., Vedder N.B., Berli J.U., Friedrich J.B., Buretta K.J., Dreifuss S.E., Emelife P.I., Hamilton K.L., Lo D.D., Nauta A.C., Oh C., Pfaff M.J., Phillips N.A., Smith J.R., Sorkin M., Suszynski T.M., Vyas K.S., Wang E.D., Wolfswinkel E.M. “Educational Exposure to Transgender Patient Care in Plastic Surgery Training.” Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Journal. 2016;138(4):944-53.
- Dreifuss S.E., Rubin J.P. “Insurance Coverage for Massive Weight Loss Panniculectomy: A National Survey and Implications for Policy.” Surgery for Obesity and Related Diseases. 2016;12(2):412-6.
- Dreifuss S.E., Wollstein R., Badylak S.F., Rubin, J.P. “Acellular micronized extracellular matrix and occlusive dressings for open fingertip injuries.” Plastic and Aesthetic Surgery Research. 2015;2:282-3.
- Dreifuss S.E., MacIsaac Z.M., Grunwaldt L.J. “Bilateral Congenital Amazia Revisited: A Case Report and Systematic Review of the Literature.” Journal of Plastic, Reconstructive, and Aesthetic Surgery. 2014;67(1):27-33.
- Philips B.J., Grahovac T., Valentin J.E., Chung C.W., Bliley J.M., Pfeifer M.E., Roy S.B., Dreifuss S.E., Kelmendi-Doko A., Kling R.E., Ravuri S.K., Donnenberg V.S., Marra K.G., Donnenberg A.D., Rubin J.P. “Prevalence of Endogenous CD34+ Adipose Stem Cells Predict Human Fat Graft Retention in a Xenograft Model.” Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Journal. 2013;132(4):845-58.
- Awarded “Best Paper Published in the Scientific Literature” by the American Society of Maxillofacial Surgeons
- Dreifuss S.E., Tomizawa Y., Farber N.J., Davison J.M., Sohnen A.E. “Spruelike Enteropathy Associated with Olmesartan: An Unusual Cause of Severe Diarrhea.” Case Reports in Gastroenterology. 2013; Article ID 618071.
- Dreifuss S.E., Manders E.K. “Massive Scrotal Edema: An Unusual Manifestation of Obstructive Sleep Apnea and Obesity Hypoventilation Syndrome.” Case Reports in Medicine. 2013; Article ID 685716.
- Bossert R.P., Dreifuss S.E., Coon D., Wollstein A., Clavijo-Alvarez J., Gusenoff J.A., Rubin J.P. “Liposuction of the Arm Concurrent with Brachioplasty in the Massive Weight Loss Patient: Is It Safe?” Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Journal. 2013;131(2):357-365.
Personal Life
Outside of the operating room, Dr. Farber enjoys spending time with her husband, Nicholas, who is a urologic surgeon, and her son, Max. The Farber family loves the Milton and Alpharetta communities and can be found exploring Scottsdale Farms, Downtown Alpharetta, Halcyon, Avalon, Wills Park, and the Crabapple Market. In her free time, Dr. Farber enjoys trying new fitness studios, restaurants, and coffee shops throughout Alpharetta, Roswell, Cumming and Milton. She is always grateful when her patients share new places for her to try!
An Interview With Dr. Farber
Where did you grow up?
I grew up in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
What type of surgical procedure do you specialize in?
I love all plastic surgery. I find the opportunities for personalization and perfection so gratifying. Though I do not have one specific specialty, my greatest passion is breast surgery. Part of this is because I pride myself on listening to my patients’ goals to make sure I understand their vision very clearly and deliver the results that they are truly hoping for. Part of it is also because of my experience. I have refined my techniques by carefully studying my own results and looking for ways to always become better.
What is your philosophy at your practice?
Many people believe that, as a plastic surgeon, I know what is supposed to be beautiful, and I critique the people around me, thinking about what I could improve. For me, it is actually the exact opposite. Though I objectively understand symmetry and proportions, I instinctively find beauty in others rather than finding flaws. Even more importantly, I do not have a specific beauty ideal. Instead, in my patient consultations, I try to understand YOUR beauty ideal. Then, while I am operating, I can hear your voice in my head telling me exactly what you want so that I can feel confident I am giving you the results of your dreams.
Why did you become a plastic surgeon?
I became a plastic surgeon because it is the perfect academic, technical, creative, and interpersonal challenge. Academically, I get to perpetually continue educating myself on new techniques and principles. Technically, I get to use my hands to bring a vision to life and my eyes to critique and improve my work throughout the process. Creatively, I get to develop solutions to new problems as no two cases are the same, and no textbook knows my patient’s goals and anatomy as well as I do. Finally, interpersonally, I have the daily challenge and privilege of getting to know my patients well enough that I can bring their uniquely personal dreams to life!
What do you like most about being a plastic surgeon?
I love seeing how differently my patients carry themselves when they come into my office postoperatively. Beyond just the part of them that I operated on, I see their brighter smiles, straighter posture, more confident walk, and overall, more vibrant demeanors. It is incredibly rewarding to see my patients so happy after surgery.
What methods did you employ to accomplish your goal of becoming a successful doctor?
To achieve my goal of becoming a successful doctor and plastic surgeon, I prioritized academic excellence from the beginning. Excelling in my undergraduate studies and obtaining a strong foundation in science were key. Outside the sciences, my training in the arts allowed me to deliver natural, harmonious results tailored to each patient’s unique features. I then pursued medical school and a highly competitive surgical residency training with an intense focus on technical precision and artistry. Beyond the educational commitments, understanding my patients’ goals and concerns has always been a priority. I focus on building trust, and ensuring that my patients feel heard, respected, and supported throughout their journey. Part of this is surrounding myself with a skilled, compassionate team to make sure that each patient receives the highest quality care and the utmost attention.
What do you like to do in your leisure time when you are not operating or seeing patients?
I love spending time with my son, Max. Thanks to Max, my hobbies include cars, trucks, and trains. I know that many toddler boy moms can relate! Max, my husband Nicholas, and I enjoy exploring the Alpharetta/Milton area and trying new restaurants, parks, and activities together. When I am not busy with my boys, I enjoy working out, especially Pilates, weightlifting, and my Peloton bike and treadmill. I love making anything aesthetic, so fashion, makeup, home organization, and color coding are all passions of mine!
What epiphany did you experience while studying to become a surgeon that led you to choose aesthetic surgery?
I remember that as a medical student, I was rotating on the head and neck cancer service. We would remove large cancers from people’s faces, mouths, or other parts of the head and neck, and then we would leave the room for the plastic surgeons to come in and put everything back together. It was then that I realized that I wanted to be the surgeon who fixed people rather than the one who took them apart. That is where I feel I can best use my creativity, artistry, and problem-solving skills.
What setbacks or obstacles did you encounter while pursuing your goals?
Being a female in surgical training is extremely challenging. In fact, many times I was told by male colleagues to change the way I looked, the way I interacted with patients and other surgeons, or other things about myself in order to succeed. It is so rewarding to now have my own practice where my team and my patients appreciate the fact that I am a female, that I want everyone to feel welcome and comfortable, and that I embrace everyone’s journey to be true to themselves!
What three words best describe you?
Compassionate, meticulous, empowering.
What mentors do you currently have, or have you had during your career that made a lasting impact on you?
All the most important lessons I learned about being a doctor are not from medical school—they are from my mom. She is not a doctor, but she has all the qualities that the best doctors should have. She is caring, compassionate, and selfless, and she prioritizes those who depend on her ahead of herself. She is the best listener and cares deeply about making others feel safe, happy, and loved. Each day I aspire to emulate these qualities.
How did your journey to be a plastic surgeon change you internally?
I learned to balance my perfectionistic tendencies with realism. No patient wants to look perfect. Everyone really just wants to look like the best version of themselves. That being said, my perfectionistic self still comes out when I am putting the finishing touches on a surgical case!
Why do patients choose you as their plastic surgeon, and what makes you different and unique?
I really listen to my patients and want them to feel like they can be totally honest with me about their goals, their concerns, and anything else that will impact their plastic surgery journey. I think I am very approachable, empathetic, and nonjudgmental. My consultations are a safe space to share the things that might make patients feel embarrassed or self-conscious. My goal is for patients to leave our visits together feeling the same relief and satisfaction that you feel after having a cathartic dinner with your friends.
