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Dr. Emerick Salas

From Miami to Medicine: The Journey of Dr. Salas

For Dr. Rafael Emerick Salas, the path to plastic surgery has always combined perseverance and passion. Raised in a bilingual household, he was inspired early on by a fascination with science and artistry, which eventually drew him to a career that merged both.

His academic journey began at the University of Miami, where he earned his bachelor’s degree, followed by a master’s in biomedical sciences at Barry University. He continued on to Boston, where he attended the prestigious Tufts University School of Medicine and received his Doctorate in Medicine (M.D.).

Dr. Salas is board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and is known for his expertise across all aspects of the face and body. He has become especially recognized for his “mommy makeovers,” which often include a combination of tummy tucks and breast lifts with or without implants.

Throughout his career, Dr. Salas has received significant recognition for his contributions to patient care. He has been named one of the Top 10 Plastic Surgeons for Patient Satisfaction by the American Institute of Plastic Surgeons and was voted one of America’s Top Surgeons by the Consumer’s Research Council of America. He also serves as Medical Advisor for the Florida chapter of “Sons of the Flag,” a nonprofit dedicated to supporting burn victims and their families.

Dr. Salas is an active member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons and the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS). His ongoing dedication to advancing patient care and his commitment to excellence remain central to his practice and reputation.

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.