The Evolution of Plastic Surgery
The Art and Innovation of Dr. Michael Byun
For decades, the evolution of plastic surgery has been shaped by idealized images of beauty relentlessly presented through media. This pursuit of seemingly unattainable facial perfection; a straighter nose, defined jawline, and youthful appearance, often drives patients to travel far to achieve these results.
Many patients embark on a journey through multiple surgeons and treatments, each with varying philosophies; however, we may have reached a turning point. The era of skin-pulling, artificial implants, and fillers, popularized by reality television trends, has yielded unnatural and temporary results, often at the cost of individual identity.
Now, in 2025, a pioneering Chicago-area surgeon is redefining facial rejuvenation. He champions the rediscovery of one’s true essence and a path to graceful aging.
Byun’s reputation as a distinguished plastic surgeon reflects a journey deeply rooted in his family’s legacy. As the eldest of four, he carries the combined influences of a scholarly Japanese mother and a driven Korean father, whose family played a crucial role in South Korea’s construction industry. His father’s leadership and work on the nation’s highway system exemplify the family’s commitment to hard work and progress, qualities that have undoubtedly shaped Byun’s own character and professional trajectory.
“Your skin is most valuable to you and only you. Don’t take it for granted.”
– Dr. Michael Byun
Byun’s innate curiosity and ambition were evident from a young age. His fascination with the fusion of art and science manifested early. A memorable school project, where students were tasked with building a plane from popsicle sticks, paper, and glue, showcased his exceptional problem-solving and creative abilities. His plane, which flew the farthest, secured victory and foreshadowed his future success.
His passion for creation and mechanical understanding was evident in all areas of his life. He won a statewide art-science competition and then, to the surprise of many, declared his ambition to become a surgeon.
Driven by his ambition to pursue education in the United States, Byun’s family relocated to Southern California during his formative years. His early experiences in America were deeply influenced by his parents’ rich cultural heritage and the vibrant diversity of California. He was raised with a profound respect for education and an unwavering work ethic, values instilled by his father’s exemplary dedication and his mother’s intellectual curiosity.
HOW THE BYUN LIFT WAS CREATED
Byun’s pursuit of excellence led him to Northwestern University, renowned for its intensely competitive plastic surgery program. He distinguished himself rapidly, rising to the top of his residency and securing the university’s inaugural integrated plastic surgery fellowship. His exceptional performance earned him the privilege of training under the esteemed ‘Holy Trinity’ of Northwestern Plastic Surgery: Dr. B. Herold ‘Hal’ Griffith, Dr. Peter McKinney, and Dr. Victor L. Lewis.
“After my 11 years spent at Northwestern for Medical School, I was able to form very close relationships with my professors. Shortly after starting independently, I inherited three of my professor’s caseloads. I hate to say it, but I didn’t like any of their long-term results and knew in my heart and mind that the traditional techniques were flawed.”
Byun recognized from the outset that true facial rejuvenation began with addressing the underlying muscle structure. He knew there had to be a more physiologically sound and effective approach to improve facial rejuvenation. Through extensive research and meticulous study, Byun developed his own facial rejuvenation technique, The Byun Lift – an approach to fix the problem by reverse-engineering the aging process, using an endoscope to see underneath the face. The detail and focus enable the restoration and preservation of one’s natural features. This method has consistently delivered proven, long-lasting results.
He emphasizes the fundamental role of gravity, stating, “Gravity affects all bodies, including the face. Over time, facial muscles descend.” His innovative approach focuses on restoring these muscles to their original midline positions, allowing for a natural realignment of facial features. This ‘reverse facelift’ technique, as Byun calls it, aims to reverse the effects of aging and/or correct prior surgical interventions. He advocates for this method to become the ‘new standard’ in cosmetic facial surgery.
Byun views the facial muscles as interlocking puzzle pieces. His technique focuses on precisely repositioning these muscles back into their original anatomical pockets. This restoration naturally contours the face, eliminating the need for excessive skin removal. The skin drapes smoothly by aligning the muscles along their natural convexity towards the midline, revealing beautifully restored muscle contours.
In some cases, previous procedures may have removed too much skin, which is essential for this natural draping process. Byun warns his patients of this through education. In cases where a patient has had multiple prior facelifts, it could end up that there’s not enough skin left to achieve an optimal outcome; you can’t just create new skin. Be wary of surgeons who essentially discard valuable tissue by cutting it away and pulling the remaining skin outward, widening the face. Your skin is uniquely yours and incredibly precious. It’s crucial not to underestimate its importance.
“What troubled me was the accelerated aging I observed in patients who had undergone traditional cosmetic procedures. The long-term effects of fat grafts, fillers, and skin-tightening devices were often detrimental; moreover, the crucial issue of sagging facial muscles was consistently overlooked.”
– Dr. Michael Byun
Byun’s philosophy is rooted in creating results that stand the test of time. His approach contrasts sharply with the quick-fix mentality that dominates the cosmetic surgery industry. Many surgeons promise immediate results but fail to consider the long-term effects of repeated procedures.
His extensive experience spans diverse patient demographics worldwide, including individuals from every continent. Through years of meticulous monitoring and personalized adjustments, he has consistently learned and refined his techniques with each patient. This method promotes natural, graceful aging, allowing patients to retain their inherent beauty. Byun’s singular technique draws patients globally, as no other surgeon offers this level of expertise.
Byun’s work reflects his Eastern and Western influences and his early bicultural household, giving him a unique perspective on beauty, balance, and harmony. As he continues to explore creative outlets, he still believes the principles of art (balance, proportion, and harmony) are deeply connected to plastic surgery.
Self-portrait by Dr. Michael Byun.
Painting by Dr. Michael Byun.
