Dr. Michael F. Killion started his private practice in Los Gatos after extensive studies of over 25 years.
Throughout his exclusively cosmetic practice, Dr. Killion has a unique way of connecting with his patients and understanding their desires to make changes to improve their appearance. He stands on the belief that cosmetic surgery is a way to enhance the beauty that lies within. It is a pathway to achieve an even better “you!”
When patients visit Samaritan Plastic Surgery, they greeted by a friendly staff, including the Office Manager Catherine.
Patients will have an individualized face-to-face consultation with Dr. Killion to explain what they desire and discover what options will be best to reach their goals. Over the years, friendly and personalized care and trust became the hallmark of his practice. We believe that beauty lies within every patient and we believe in “Beauty for Life”. This is why Dr. Killion offers procedures and care for all decades of your life.
Dr. Killion is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and practices cosmetic plastic surgery exclusively.
He graduated from Holy Cross College and attended St. Louis University School of Medicine. Upon receiving his Doctor of Medicine Degree he entered an Internship and completed General Surgery Residency at the Albany Medical College in Albany, New York. He then completed a Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Residency at University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine’s Western Pennsylvania Hospital in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
Dr. Killion served in the US Navy and was a Battalion Surgeon in the Third Marine Division where he served in Vietnam and the US Naval Hospital in Massachusetts.
He completed three additional fellowships which include: Fellow in Aesthetic Surgery and Breast reconstruction at the Institute of Aesthetic Surgery in Atlanta, Georgia; Fellow in Craniofacial and Cleft Lip and Palate Surgery at the University of Mexico in Mexico City, Mexico; and Fellow in Hand Surgery in San Jose, California.
Dr. Killion has been in private practice since 1980 in Los Gatos and San Jose, CA and primarily works at Good Samaritan and El Camino Hospitals and Los Gatos Surgery Center.
Before setting up practice he worked in Mexico for a year caring for children with facial deformities. Nearly all of his cosmetic surgery practice is done at Samaritan Plastic Surgery Center which is his accredited operating room adjacent to his consultation office.
He is a Diplomate of the American Board of Plastic Surgery.
He is a member of the following societies: American Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, American Society Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (Candidate), Lipoplasty Society, California Society of Plastic Surgery, Aesthetic Surgery and Education Research Foundation, American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine, San Jose Surgical Society, and the Santa Clara County Medical Society. He has been the Chairman of the Division of Plastic Surgery at Good Samaritan Hospital in San Jose and has served on many committees over the years. He is also a certified inspector of ambulatory surgery centers for AAAASF nationally.
Dr. Killion is married.
He and his wife have raised seven children. He has been active in the community as a little league manager and soccer coach and has been involved with Habitat for Humanity.
Throughout his practice he continues to be committed to education in plastic surgery
and has received the American Medical Association Physician Recognition Award and American Society of Plastic Surgeon Recognition Award as well as being one of San Jose’s “Top Docs.”
Maryam Mottahed B.S. R.N.
Aesthetic Nurse Practitioner.
Maryam graduated from Shiraz University with a Bachelors of Science and a Registered Nurse degree.
She has spent over 8 years performing clinical skincare most recently at Pure Med Spa in San Jose, CA. She has previously worked as a floor nurse in the Emergency Room at El Camino Hospital and also in Oncology at O’Connor Hospital. Maryam has maintained her credentials in nursing and Advanced Cardiac Life Support. (ACLS).
Joining Dr. Killion at Samaritan Plastic Surgery in 2010
she offers a comprehensive knowledge of facial rejuvenation (anti-wrinkle) treatments using Botox, Juvederm, Dysport, Perlane, and Restylane. She uses anesthetic nerve blocks and topical creams to nub the treatment areas.
Maryam performs our fantastic laser treatments.
She has many years experience with our Syneron laser. Please see our laser page for more information.
Maryam enjoys interacting with our patients and helping them achieve their desired appearance.
She is available for consultations to determine which treatment protocol is right for you. Her goal is for each patient to realize a personalized look that is subtle, natural and attractive.
Cosmetic Care
Choosing the right look for you can be challenging. At Samaritan Plastic Surgery, we take our time with you to help you make the decision that will work best for you. Dr. Killion has over 25 years of experience and is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. Los Gatos Surgery Center is an accredited ambulatory suite proximate to his office. Aesthetic nurse specialist Maryam Mottahed assists Dr. Killion and performs Botox and Dysport treatments as well as filler injections. (Restylane, Perlane, Juvederm) Dr. Killion cares for you before, during, and after surgery. Take a look at some of the services we have available for you to choose from. If you're not sure where to start or would like to find out more about a procedure, don't hesitate to contact us. We provide a range of cosmetic surgery options including:
Minimally invasive face lifts
Short scar and MACS (European) facelift, Non-surgical cheek lift, Eyelid lift, Brow lift, Endoscopic brow lift
Tumescent Liposuction
Ultrasonic liposuction
Vaser liposuction
Laser resurfacing
Laser skin tightening, firming and wrinkle reduction
Purifying Cleanser, Phloretin CF, C E Ferulic, Blemish & Age, A.G.E. Interrupter, A.G.E. Eye Complex, Phyto Corrective Gel, Epidermal Repair, Physical UV Defense SPF 30, Daily Sun Defense SPF 20
Vivite
Latisse
grow eyelashes longer and darker-FDA approved
Hydro-Q
hydroquinone 4% gel
Retin A
Neuromodulators and Fillers
Botox
“Before and After” and the Botox Cosmectic doc.
Dysport
Juvederm/Ultra Plus
Restylane/Perlane
Radiesse
Sculptra
Products
Obagi
A total skincare program utilizing Retin A for dramatic results!
Skin Ceuticals
Products we carry include; Purifying Cleanser, Phloretin CF, C E Ferulic, Blemish & Age, A.G.E. Interrupter, A.G.E. Eye Complex, Phyto Corrective Gel, Epidermal Repair, Physical UV Defense SPF 30, Daily Sun Defense SPF 20
Skin Care
Moderate depth skin peels and skin care products are available from our nursing staff
Vivite
Exfoliate, Hydrates and Protects the skin. These products offer the dual action of manual and chemical exfoliation
Latisse
Now, you can grow longer, fuller, darker lashes. LATISSE™ is the first and only prescription treatment approved by the FDA for inadequate or insufficient eyelashes, growing them longer, fuller and darker
Injectable Fillers
A variety of substances is now available in various degrees of viscosity as injectable fillers for lip augmentation, wrinkles, scars, and depressions in the face
Botox Cosmetic
Botox Cosmetic® is approved for cosmetic use by the FDA. It is a safe and effective treatment for the temporary improvement in moderate to severe frown lines, the area between the brows, crow’s feet, marionette lines and forehead lines. It smooth’s away wrinkles by weakening the underlying muscles that create them and usually lasts up to 4 months
Dysport
DYSPORT is also approved by the FDA. We treat forehead wrinkles and frown lines. It has the same effect as Botox Cosmetic, has no downtime, and allows the untreated areas to still contract normally, allowing you to freely show facial expressions, such as laughing or smiling
Hyaluronic Acids
There are several FDA approved hyaluronic acid dermal fillers available. They are Restylane®/Perlane and Juvederm®. Juvederm™ Ultra and Juvederm™ Ultra Plus
Laser Skin Care
We offer the most current technology in laser skin care
Sclerotherapy
Troublesome “spider” veins in the legs can often be treated with sclerosants, or medications that cause the insides of the veins to stick together, allowing obliteration of the cosmetically prominent veins
Obagi Skin Care
Obagi- Nu-Derm systems : Anti-aging Transformation. A total skincare program utilizing Retin A for dramatic results! Skin aging is a natural process, but daily sun exposure can contribute to premature aging, slowing down the turnover of skin cells between healthy new cells and old damaged cells. The Obagi Nu-Derm System is an anti-aging therapy that penetrates below the skin’s surface to transform skin cell functions at the cellular level and correct the damage within revealing healthy, younger-looking skin. Signs of aging and photodamage:
Age spots
Fine lines and wrinkles
Rough skin
Skin laxity (loss of elasticity)
Erythema (redness)
Sallowness (complexion)
Hyperpigmentation (discoloration)
Skin Ceuticals
Platinum and Gold Standard in Vitamin C
Phloretin CF® represents a new class of preventive and corrective topical antioxidant treatment. After five years of extensive research, SkinCeuticals developed this patent-pending breakthrough technology combining the newly-discovered, broad-range power of phloretin with vitamin C and ferulic acid in a biodiverse formulation to divide and conquer sources of damage at every level. Phloretin CF, a broad-spectrum treatment, protects against not only free radicals, but the range of other reactive molecules known to cause damage and DNA mutations among the integral cell types. In addition, it corrects existing damage by stimulating the synthesis of essential proteins and fibers and accelerating cell turnover. The result - a strengthened support structure on the inside and a more youthful, firm, radiant appearance on the outside. C E Ferulic® is a revolutionary antioxidant combination that delivers advanced protection against photoaging - neutralizing free radicals, helping build collagen, and providing unmatched antioxidant protection. More protection means more youthful looking skin and better defense against environmental aging. Containing 15% pure L-ascorbic acid and 1% alpha tocopherol, the addition of ferulic acid doubles the already synergistic benefits of our original high-potency formula, C+E, transforming C E Ferulic® into a super-antioxidant combination.
Sunscreen Protection
A groundbreaking first-to-market mattifying fluid with transparent finish, this paraben-free, all-physical filter sunscreen provides increased protection in an ultra-sheer texture for all skin types, even very sensitive. Sheer Physical UV Defense SPF 50® offers the photoprotection of trusted broad-spectrum, physical filters, zinc oxide (Z-COTE® ) and titanium dioxide, and is enhanced by artemia salina, a plankton extract, to increase the skin’s defenses and resistance to UV and heat stress. The unique ‘shake then apply’ action assures even distribution of active ingredients in this silky sheer fluid that dries quickly and leaves no residue. Optimal for sensitive or traumatized skin and safe for children, Physical UV Defense is a true broad-spectrum UVA/UVB sunscreen perfect for daily use. This cosmetically elegant, all-physical sunscreen contains 5% transparent zinc oxide and 10% titanium dioxide, two non-irritating active ingredients ideal for use on all skin types. Breakthrough dispersion technology minimizes the “whitening” Effect commonly found in other all-physical sunscreens by equally distributing reduced sunscreen particles. This true broad-spectrum sunscreen contains 7% transparent zinc oxide to help protect against the damaging effects of UVA and UVB rays. Cosmetically elegant and moisturizing, Ultimate UV Defense is ideal for daily use and perfect for high-altitude climates.
Vivite - Skin Care
Exfoliate, Hydrates and Protects the skin. These products offer the dual action of manual and chemical exfoliation. VIVITÉ® is Allergan’s latest advanced skin care line that revitalizes and shields skin to reduce the signs of aging. A scientific advancement in skin care, VIVITÉ® is clinically shown to reduce fine lines and wrinkles, and the only skin care line to include proprietary GLX Technology™, which creates a highly specialized blend of hydrating glycolic acid and powerful, natural antioxidants. Glycolic acid is derived from sugar cane, but also can be made synthetically. Because of its smaller molecular size, glycolic acid is believed to be more effective for skin care than other alpha hydroxy acids. When used correctly, glycolic acid can improve the look and feel of skin and reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and brown or age spots. Daily Cleanser is mild enough for regular use to loosen surface oil and other impurities from the skin and gently exfoliates while applying proven anti-irritants and rich humectants to leave skin fresh and moist. The VIVITÉ® skin care line includes the following products:
Exfoliating Facial Cleanser
containing 15 percent glycolic compound, salicylic acid and exfoliating microbeads to cleanse, smooth, and refine skin.
Daily Antioxidant Facial Serum
containing 15 percent glycolic compound, green tea, pomegranate, chamomile, and aloe to moisturize and protect skin.
Night Renewal Facial Cream
containing 20 percent glycolic compound, vitamin C, vitamin E, and superoxide distmutase to reduce fine lines and wrinkles.
Revitalizing Eye Treatment
containing 10 percent glycolic compound, caffeine, peptides, and light-reflecting interference pearls to reduce puffiness around the eyes and decrease the appearance of crows feet.
Resources
VIVITÉ® Vibrance Therapy
VIVITÉ® Vibrance Therapy is specially formulated with natural ingredients to help brighten and even skin tone while helping to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles in just 8 weeks.1 Restorative, antioxidant-rich cream works to help even out skin tone without hydroquinone. Contains 15% glycolic compound. To be used once or twice daily. For daytime use, apply on cleansed skin before VIVITÉ® Daily Antioxidant Facial Serum. For evening use, apply before VIVITÉ® Night Renewal Facial Cream.
Dermal Fillers
Collagen is what gives volume, flexibility and strength to healthy, young skin. As a part of the aging process, your own natural collagen breaks down, diminishing facial volume and elasticity. This loss of elasticity and volume results in wrinkles, facial lines and skin laxity – all of which rob your skin of its youthful, fresh appearance.
Botox
Botox Cosmetic® is an FDA approved purified protein that is administered in a non-surgical procedure that temporarily improves the appearance of lines. The most common areas of treatment are the frown lines, between the brows, crow’s feet and forehead lines. Botox Cosmetic® works by blocking the chemicals that cause muscle contraction. This results in relaxation of the muscles that are responsible for the lines. Results may last between 3-4 months.
Dysport
DYSPORT is also approved by the FDA. We treat forehead wrinkles and frown lines. It has the same effect as Botox Cosmetic, has no downtime, and allows the untreated areas to still contract normally, allowing you to freely show facial expressions, such as laughing or smiling.
Radiesse
Ideal wrinkle reduction is achieved by replenishing your skin’s lost volume. Upon injection, RADIESSE® Volumizing Filler immediately provides the volume and lift needed to diminish the signs of aging because of the calcium-based microspheres and gel that comprise the product. But what’s unique about RADIESSE Volumizing Filler is that it acts as a scaffold under the skin, providing structure and stimulating your own natural collagen to grow.1 This process continues for several months, which extends the initial effect of RADIESSE Volumizing Filler. Best of all, the natural results are clinically proven to last a year or more in many patients, which is why more and more cosmetic surgeons, dermatologists, and other medical professionals are choosing RADIESSE Volumizing Filler to achieve long-lasting facial rejuvenation.
Hyaluronic Acids
There are several FDA approved hyaluronic acid dermal fillers available. They are Restylane® /Perlane and Juvederm® . JuvTderm™ Ultra and JuvTderm™ Ultra Plus. These are indicated for injection into the mid to deep dermis for correction of moderate to severe facial wrinkles and folds (such as the nasolabial folds). Side effects were usually mild to moderate lasting 7 days or less and included temporary injection site reactions like redness, pain, firmness, swelling and bumps. The choice of which dermal filler to use is individual. Factors that influence this are: Areas to be treated, depth of wrinkles, skin texture and cost. A combination of dermal fillers and Botox® treatments can be performed at the same time. These options are best determined during consultation.
Laser Skin Care
We offer the most current technology in laser skin care.
Laser Hair Removal
This treatment safely and gently eliminates unwanted hair. There is no downtime involved, and the only side effects include minor reddening of the skin and mild swelling. Hair reduction should be permanent though it will not eliminate 100% of hair growth and occasional touch-ups may be necessary. Several treatments may be necessary – usually 4-6 are sufficient.
Laser Acne Treatment
Safely treat pore-clogging bacteria and oil that result in breakouts. Reduce sebaceous gland activity and destroy active acne. Reduce and facilitate healing time of existing acne.
Skin Rejuvenation/FotoFacialRF
Safely treats imperfections and uneven skin tones. Also reduces the appearance of brown and red spots such as rosacia, age spots, spider vessels and face freckles.
Wrinkle treatment
Promotes new collagen growth. Improve the texture and eliminate moderate wrinkles, skin laxity, and fine lines. The only non-invasive treatment with FDA-approval for skin tightening.
Triniti Skin Series
Three treatments in one session! The trinity skin series combines three of today’s most effective technologies to achieve total facial renewal. Color correction, skin tightening and focused dermal remodeling all at once. Achieve tight and firm skin appearance. Safely treat tiny spider vessels and red and brown spots.
Skin Care Peels
Vivite peel
This peel is a 70% AHA (alpho hydroxyl acid) skin peel. It is a mild exfoliating peel that is done in a series of six peels. (one per week) Transforms the texture of the skin. It is recommended that Patients use a combination of skincare products with a peel once per month to maintain optimal results.
Obagi Blue Peel
If you’ve been considering a chemical peel procedure, you should know that the Obagi Blue Peel may help to restore a tighter, smoother, more radiant look to your skin. Use of the Obagi Nu-Derm system is recommended before and after your Obagi Blue Peel, which takes place in your physician’s office. The Obagi Blue Peel uses trichloroacetic acid (TCA) as the active ingredient mixed with the patented Blue Base from Obagi.
Phenol Chemical Peel
Phenol chemical peels are the strongest of the chemical peels available. Designed to remove deep wrinkles and scarring, phenol chemical peels contain carbolic acid and are therefore much more risky than most other chemical peel treatments. Phenol chemical peel treatments require mild sedation and local anesthetic, and a full face phenol chemical peel takes one to two hours to complete, although treatment of smaller areas with phenol chemical peel can take as little as ten minutes. New skin forms within three weeks of the phenol chemical peel, and the skin will gradually fade to white over the following months. Results of phenol chemical peels can last for decades, and no special care is needed to maintain skin improvements from phenol chemical peels, unlike the regimens required after most other peel methods, although it is recommended that phenol chemical peel recipients use SPF 15 to protect the new skin. Serious side effects are possible with phenol chemical peels, including scarring, permanent pigment discoloration and discomfort. For about two weeks following a phenol chemical peel, treated skin will be tight and red, and many patients feel uncomfortable in public. A phenol chemical peel often turns treated skin a ghostly white, and there will be a line from the phenol chemical peel, marking the pigment change between the treated and untreated areas. For this reason, phenol chemical peels are usually not recommended for patients with darker or heavily freckled skin. Consultation with Dr. Killion will determine if this is the appropriate treatment for you.
Sclerotherapy (Vein Treatment)
Sclerotherapy is a non-surgical approach to the treatment of spider veins on the legs. The purpose of this cosmetic procedure is to eliminate unsightly superficial veins using a sclerosing agent. Large varicosities and more serious conditions involving deep veins should be evaluated by a vascular specialist.
What is Sclerotherapy?
Sclerotherapy is a treatment that uses an injected solution to target spider veins. Spider veins are small, thin veins which commonly appear on the face and legs. These veins are inessential to the venous system, so they may be safely removed.
How does this treatment work?
Before the treatment begins, the skin is cleansed with an antiseptic solution. The skin is stretched and the sclerosing solution is administered into the chosen veins: one injection per inch. Generally, 5 to 40 injections are made per treatment. As each injection is completed, cotton ball and compression tape is placed on the area.
How many treatments are required?
For maximum results, multiple treatments are required, although there will be visible results after one session. The original spider veins will be obliterated; however, the treatment does not stop new spider veins from appearing.
Will there be any downtime?
There is very little downtime. Support hose will be provided and placed over bandages to ensure proper healing. Although the legs are bandaged, you are encouraged to walk to prevent blood clots. Avoid prolonged sitting, standing, squatting, heavy weight lifting and jogging.
What are the results?
Most clients are very pleased with the diminished appearance of their spider veins. The skin on the legs will appear younger, clearer and healthier. There is a dramatic difference between a treated leg and an untreated leg.
How soon will results appear?
When the compression bandages are removed, there will be bruising and reddish areas at the injection sites. The bruises will diminish with time, and in some cases there is some residual brownish coloration which may a while to completely fade.
How long does Sclerotherapy last?
The veins effected by the session will be permanently destroyed. However, the treatment has no effect on newly appearing veins that grow over time.
Who should avoid Sclerotherapy?
Individuals with hepatitis, blood-borne diseases, circulatory problems, heart conditions, or diabetes may be advised against this procedure.