Let me start this review by giving some context into what surgery I had Dr. Sowder perform. I am a 24 year old male, 6'4" who spent most of his life morbidly obese. About two years ago, I decided to go through a dramatic life change and dedicated myself to fitness and healthy eating. I went from somewhere around 335 lbs down to 210 lbs, or 45% body fat to 10%. This took me about 15 months, and left me with a large amount of excess skin on my stomach. So, I had Dr. Sowder perform an abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) to get rid of it and to allow my body to show off the work on my abs that I was putting in every day. Firstly, Dr. Sowder's work speaks for itself. I am amazed by how much change she was able to perform on my body. I went from still looking very flabby with loose skin hanging and flopping from my midsection, to having a great amount of definition and feeling like a stud. Because of Dr. Sowder, I feel like my body is finally able to reflect the amount of work that I put into it. If you see her for a consultation, ask to see her before and after shots of male abominoplasty patients, and look for the guy with a tattoo on his left chest. The after shot is only the beginning, and since it was taken my physique has improved dramatically. Secondly, working with Dr. Sowder was a dream. Everything was amazingly convenient. If I had a 9:00 appointment, I could show up at 8:30 and I would be seeing Dr. Sowder at 8:35. The total amount of time I had to be in her waiting room across all of my appointments is less than I usually have to wait to see my family practitioner. She was also incredibly helpful and insightful in explain to me the surgery, the effects, the recovery, etc... I left feeling confident I was fully informed of all aspects of what I wanted done and whether or not it would be worth it for me, personally. If you are considering plastic surgery, I cannot recommend seeing Dr. Sowder for your consultation highly enough. After working with her, I have absolutely no regrets. read more

I'd had breast implants for over 23 years, had them removed and not replaced, and am very glad I chose Dr. Lisa Sowder as my surgeon! She did an excellent job of removing the implants and thick scar capsule, while preserving all my natural breast tissue. The initial surgery had been done to camouflage asymmetry (I was a smallish 34B on the left and about a cup size less on the right). Over the years the scar capsule had thickened and hardened, and then the right implant deflated. Rather than suggesting a "cookie-cutter" implant replacement surgery, she offered several options, and I appreciated her innovative approach. I didn't think I wanted new implants, but I did want a cosmetically acceptable result. Due to the initial asymmetry and having one side deflated, we agreed that the best approach was to first remove the implants and scar capsule, let me heal for a few months, and then decide how to proceed. The surgery went very well - no nausea (typically a problem for me), and I took pain meds for only 24 hours. Now, almost three months post-surgery, I am more pleased with the result than I had imagined I would be. I'm still asymmetrical and my breasts don't look ideal, but I'm glad I didn't get new implants. I'm going back to Dr. Sowder and plan to have a fat-graft procedure next year, to even out the size difference, fill in some uneven spots, and add fullness. Dr. Lisa Sowder is the ideal plastic surgeon: highly skilled, straightforward, genuinely compassionate, and innovative. She was interested in finding a "custom-fit" approach for a case like mine, which was not typical. She also is one of a small number of surgeons that do fat grafting to the breasts, which is the procedure most ideal for my situation, since I don't want new implants. I'm fortunate that I live in proximity to Seattle, where Dr. Sowder is located. read more

I went to visit Dr. Sowder to talk about the possibility of having a tummy tuck. She had come highly recommended so I made an appointment just to see what she thought. I had visited another doctor and was disapointed in the way I was treated and with their explanation of the possible outcome so I had mostly decided against having the surgery. When I met Dr. Sowder she immediately put me at ease. She carefully examined me and then explained why I was an ideal candidate, what a difference this surgery would make for me, and how pleased she thought I would be with the outcome. She showed me pictures of others who had had the same proceedure and I was able to see what a difference it made. Dr. Sowder's professionalism and expertise made me so comfortable that I went ahead and scheduled the surgery. The day of surgery went flawlessly and she was able to reconstruct my tummy so that the ugly c-section scar was removed and create the flat abdomen we discussed, I went home to rest and recover and I can say that Dr. Sowder's after care of me was fantastic. She was available to answer questions and provide all the support I needed. I can say that the transformation was so significant that I was started at first when I would catch a glimpse of myself in the mirror. I am so pleased with the results of this surgery. It was life changing in how it changed my image of myself and gave me confidence, I can't say enough good things about Dr. Sowder and I would not hesitate to recommend her to anyone considering plastic surgery. read more

In late spring of 2000 Dr. Sowder did my breast augmentation. Prior to surgery, I was convinced I wanted really large breasts. I was thoroughly tired of being flat-chested and I think I was dreaming of looking like Dolly Parton!! Dr. Sowder counseled me against going really large. In fact, she might have actually refused to give me the size I wanted. I don't remember. I do remember that I decided she was the expert and that I would go with her recommendation. I am soooooooo happy I did! In the ensuing 15 years since my surgery I have seen some really bad breast augmentations: Implants that are obviously implants, huge breasts on small women which make them look ridiculous, etc. My surgically enhanced breasts are the absolute perfect size for my body. And, because Dr. Sowder instructed me to do the manipulation exercises post-op, they look and feel almost real. Last week I was at my yearly physical and my MD told me I had the best breast augmentation she'd ever seen. This is 15 years after the fact!! I would recommend Dr. Sowder to anyone contemplating breast augmentation. I am still thrilled with mine 15 years after the fact!! read more

After losing quite a bit of weight I was left with a mid-section that I wasn't able to get rid of short of an abdominoplasty. This is a major surgery and I didn't take it lightly. I researched and found the best doctor out there for me. Best decision I could have made. Would I do it again? In a heartbeat! The procedure went so smoothly (thank goodness) and fortunately I didn't have any complications. A week of soreness but that was pretty much it and I only took pain pills the first three days. My scar looks great! Dr. Sowder had me cover it with micropore surgical tape for three months. This tape reduces tension on the scar and helped it heal nicely. I also had a wear a compression garment for three months which helped with swelling. Dr. Sowder also gave me a nice belly button which was one thing I was worried about because I've seen some bad jobs on the internet. It's been 5 months since my surgery and I still can't stop looking in the mirror :). She's very skilled and I'm so happy with my results. Pros: a flat tummy! Cons: none for me. read more

I had explantation and mastopexy on January 7, 2013. I am very happy with the results. I do miss having larger breasts, however, I do not miss the pain from capsular contracture and the feeling of having hard rocks on my chest. It got to the point where I was hesitant to hug anyone, embarrassing really. I began my journey by researching ad nauseum the procedures and local surgeons. I selected 3 surgeons to interview and Dr. Sowder blew the other 2 out of the water. Dr. Sowder is the consummate professional, and she had the ability to put me at ease immediately. She has an amazing portfolio of before and after photos of explanted / lifted breasts. I left her office feeling fairly confident that she was the one. I scheduled my pre-op with her office the following week. The recovery really wasn't as bad as I expected and I was back to light exercise after 3 weeks. I'm back to my old self and have zero regrets! I am so grateful for Dr. Sowder's expertise and kindness. read more

At nearly 50 years old, I was really hating "my girls" and went to Dr. Sowder to see what could be done about it. Between time and gravity, they just weren't sitting where I wanted them to be plus I wanted the option of going braless once in a while and feel good about it. Dr. Sowder certainly took care of that with precision and perfection! As she said, "we will put the girls back where they were in junior high" and she did just that! It's fantastic and I wish I had done it a few year ago. Her nurses and office staff are human, compassionate and made me feel comfortable at every visit. One of the nurses that checked me in at the surgery center said that Dr. Sowder is the best "boob" doctor in Seattle! A consultation is all you need to see the path to a more positive body image of "that" area which seems be nagging all the time. read more

My experience with Dr. Sowder and her staff was absolutely wonderful. From first inquiry to follow ups I have received only top notch treatment. I really appreciate her forthrightness, which is backed up by decades of experience and education. I inquired about a second time breast reduction; she personally responded to my very first email inquiry, explaining the difficulty and possibilities. Evidently it's a very tricky procedure. When we spoke over the phone I knew she was the one. I could not be happier with the results. Have a look at her website and blog and I'm certain you will be assured she is not only a masterful surgeon but also has excellent judgement and taste when it comes to the overall aesthetics of the outcome. Thank you Dr. Sowder, so very, very much! read more

I recently had an eyelid procedure done by Dr. Sowder and couldn't be happier with the entire experience and the results! I have never had anything like this done before and am definitely not the "plastic surgery type" , so I was extremely hesitant to go through with it. I'm so glad I did! The results look very natural, nobody has suspected a thing, they just think I look well rested. Through every step of the way, from the initial consultation to the final follow up, I was treated respectfully and professionally from all of the staff and Dr. Sowder. Her patience in understanding and explaining was very appreciated by this newbie. I don't think I'll ever need her again, but if I did need a procedure for any reason, I would definitely go to her again. read more

I returned to Dr. Sowder for another procedure and experienced the same excellent outcome. Dr. Sowder is a highly-trained and experienced plastic surgeon who is well-regarded by her professional colleagues. She and her staff are caring and helpful. Her office is well-run. I have referred friends to Dr. Sowder (some for involved procedures) and all have sung her praise. It pains me to see poor reviews written by people who have never been her patients and are simply basing their reviews on hearsay. Shame on them! Dr. Sowder is a great plastic surgeon and a thoughtful physician who really listens to her patients and goes the extra distance to make they have the best possible outcome. read more

I found Dr. Sowder after countless hours of searching for a Plastic Surgeon. After reviewing her website I decided she was the doctor for me and made my consultation appointment. When I met her she was very warm and welcoming and made me feel very comfortable about my procedure. She was very knowledgeable about her craft and answered all my questions and concerns. My results from Dr. Sowder were amazing and I could not be happier. I continue to be a patient of Dr. Sowder and will recommend her to anyone who has plastic surgery needs! I am so thankful with the great results I received and the care and helpfulness of Dr. Sowder. read more

Thank you again, Dr. Sowder, for your beautiful work on my breasts! I love them! I look in the mirror and still can hardly believe it's me looking back, with such a gorgeous body, such luscious breasts! We both enjoy them so much! Thank you, thank you, thank you! I know three years is not a great lot of time, but it's three years of "buoyed spirit"...three years and counting, of gladness. It's good to be reminded of the safety of silicone implants, so three years also of no worry. Thanks for your newsletter, keeping in touch. read more

Dr. Sowder works magic, takes such good care of her patients and I recommend her without one reservation! I was traveling to Seattle from Alaska for my procedure and she and her crew were so helpful and accommodating both over the phone and in person. While I know how busy she is, she never makes you feel rushed and takes her time. I am so pleased with the results and while I don't have anything further planned, she would be my first and only stop if that changed. Dr. Sowder and her staff are first class in every way! read more

Dr. Sowder and her office staff are wonderful. I had to travel to Seattle from Alaska to have surgery and they made it so easy. I first contacted Dr. Sowder through email and she personally replied and communicated with me. I was able to do my consultation over the phone and emails and when I showed up for surgery I felt very comfortable. She listened to exactly what I wanted and I've had fantastic results. I highly recommend her and will definitely be seeing her in the future if I choose to have another procedure. read more

If your reading this you're looking for the best and I'm happy to say you've found her in Dr. Sowder. I wasn't looking good in my clothes anymore and needed freshening up. She did such excellant work. So verry little discomfort. My healing was rapid and I look great ! To look and feel more youthful at my age of 75 is fantastic !! I highly recommend Dr. Sowder and her staff. I just purchased the prettiest swim suit ever for a trip to Hawaii. I love my body again Thank You Shirl read more

Dr. Sowder is amazing. She was the 3rd surgeon I consulted with and I felt a connection immediately after meeting her. She addressed all my concerns about complications related to previous plastic surgery and I have had no problems with my breast augmentation. Dr. Sowder took the perfect moderate approach and did not recommend an implant that was too big (or too small) for my frame. I am 100% satisfied with my result! Amber C. read more

I felt comfortable choosing Dr. Sowder because she specializes in correcting the condition I had, tuberous breasts. Due to the difficulty in correcting tuberous breasts, I did not expect perfection. However, Dr Sowder exceeded my expectations and I am very pleased with my new breasts. As previous reviewer said, she is an artist. She was able to give sculpt me the body I always desired. read more

I went to see Dr Sowder for upper and lower eyelid surgery. She was really approachable and the whole team was extremely friendly and professional. The surgery went well and the follow up care was very patient centered. The recovery took a little longer than I imagined but I could go in and see Dr Sowder as often as I felt I needed to. I would recommend her office for plastic surgery. read more

Dr. Sowder is a fantastic surgeon!! She listens carefully and addresses all of your concerns, I don't think there is a better surgeon to be found! She even answered some of the stranger questions that my co workers begged me to ask! After my consultation and surgery I finally feel like a whole person! Thank you Dr. Sowder, you have changed my life in more ways than you can imagine! read more