Dr. Emerick Salas

From Miami to Medicine: The Journey of Dr. Salas

Dr. Rafael Emerick Salas is a board-certified, Harvard-trained plastic surgeon known for his precision, artistry, and compassionate care. Raised in a bilingual household in Miami, he developed an early passion for both science and aesthetics—a combination that continues to shape his approach to surgery today.

He earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of Miami, followed by a master’s in biomedical sciences at Barry University. He then trained in Boston, attending Harvard and Tufts University School of Medicine, where he earned his M.D.

In a city like Miami, where unqualified providers are common, patients trust Dr. Salas to correct and refine surgeries performed elsewhere. His expertise spans all areas of face and body contouring, with a particular focus on “mommy makeovers” combining tummy tucks and breast lifts with or without implants.

Recognized as one of the Top 10 Plastic Surgeons for Patient Satisfaction by the American Institute of Plastic Surgeons and voted among America’s Top Surgeons, Dr. Salas also serves as Medical Advisor for the Florida chapter of Sons of the Flag, supporting burn victims and their families.

An active member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons and the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS), Dr. Salas continues to set the standard for safe, transformative, and natural results—earning the trust of patients across South Florida and beyond.

Harvard Medical School Trained

Dr. Salas completed his surgical internship at the Harvard School of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Boston, Massachusetts. He continued on to do his surgical residency at the Harvard program, and then completed a Plastic Surgery fellowship at the University of South Florida School of Medicine in Tampa, Florida. While there, he also completed a Plastic Surgery research fellowship, publishing numerous articles on the plastic surgery specialty which he presented at national conferences.

Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon

Upon completing his training, Dr. Salas was asked to join the faculty at the University of South Florida to help teach the Plastic Surgery residents of the program. Dr. Salas has brought his skill and surgical expertise to Miami to provide patients the individually tailored care and the excellent surgical results they desire to help them rediscover the joy of showcasing their body as they want it to be.

Top Doctor Recognized

Dr. Salas is recognized as a top doctor by findatopdoc.com, a resource used by patients to find trusted, top doctors in their area.