Active Member
Gary R. Culbertson, MD, FACS
Restore & Rejuvinate!!! Board Certified Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Specialist Serving the South Carolina Wetlands for over 20 years. We offer a AAAASF OBS Level C Cosmetic Surgery Facility.
Schedule A Consultation
Meet Dr. Gary Culbertson
Make sure to clearly express your concerns and even write down your questions. This is an exciting time that can and often does result in a life changing event. Let no one fool you. A change in your outward physical appearance can have dramatic effects on who you perceive yourself and how you are viewed by others. Many patients experience a boost in confidence and improved self worth.
Dr. Culbertson is recognized as a local expert in Aesthetic surgery and is sought out for primary and corrective Cosmetic Surgery. We offer a Cosmetic Surgical Center with the capability of General Anesthesia. Check us out a http://www.garyculbertson.com.
Your Consultation
Cosmetic Consults are only $50. Uninsured appoinments range from $100 and up.
Facilities
Patient Testimonials
“I just wanted to drop you a note to thank you for everything you’ve done for me. My incisions are healing well, and I am feeling better every day. You’ve made a “huge” Improvement in my quality of life. Thank you again.” -Laurie — Columbia, SC
Thank you so much for the care and attention you provided me. My husband and I appreciate your taking the time to explain to us about my surgery before and after the operation. Your staff was so pleasant and professional. We appreciate the kindness and attention given to me.” -Linda — Florence, SC
“I have had the privilege of visiting and being your patient on three different occasions over the past 12 years. Even moving 3 hours away — I never considered anyone but you. The chin/cheek/CO2 Laser procedure you completed on me has already lifted my spirits. I feel as an older woman it is essential to do all we can to care for ourselves and for me that includes a bit of cosmetic surgery ever few years. On each visit to your office —-no matter the questions; you are always content to answer. Your expertise is comforting and your kindness and concerning nature incredible. During the decision making appointment; you give recommendations that are factually sound which has helped to ensure I make the best decisions that will offer the maximum benefits. You go beyond to explain and make sure I know what to expect as well as how to keep the treated areas clean….. “The Solution to Pollution is Dilution”. Upon the follow up visits your words are encouraging even during the swelling weeks when we all need a bit of up-lifting. When I have needed to ask a question after the appointment….. You are always there to send the answer. How privileged I have been to have found such an astonishing Plastic Surgeon. Grant is always accommodating as he knows I have three hours to travel for appointments. He has always been helpful and rearranged times for me and I so gratefully appreciate his gestures. When I have called in with a questions —- He returns the call in a short time frame. Belinda is amazing and awesome. She ensures I have my prescriptions (calls them in so they are ready when I arrive at the pharmacy) —directions for prep—-aftercare—-as well as notes that ensure I follow the daily meds and hygiene routine as needed. In the office she is considerate and genuine. With her proficiency and stellar personality — she delivers an ease to the patients with positive comments about the procedures and of course brags on you Dr. Culbertson as being the BEST!!!! Day of the surgery— On the day of the surgery I was greeted by Donna and Oscar. I had met Oscar during my past two surgeries. Their professionalism, kind-heartedness and compassionate nature makes them true priceless jewels on your team. The morning of surgery is a bit unsettling for anyone– but they go out of their way to keep you calm and at ease. They explain each step that they are taking to ensure the best possible experience during the surgery. What amazing professionals. Dr. Culbertson, Thank you so kindly for being a Proficient, Skilled, Professional and Thoughtful Doctor. I appreciate all that you have done for me and I have been satisfied with the results each time.” -Elizabeth — Charlotte, SC
Procedures Performed
Arm Lift
Body Contouring
Botulinum Toxin
Breast Augmentation
Breast Implant Removal
Breast Implant Removal
Breast Lift
Breast Reconstruction
Breast Reduction
Brow Lift
Buttock Lift with Augmentation
Chemical Peels, IPL, Fractional CO2 Laser Treatments
Chin Augmentation
Chin Surgery
Cleft Lip and Palate Repair
Dermal Fillers
Down Syndrome
Ear Reconstruction Surgery
Ear Surgery
Endoscopic Technique
Eyelid Ptosis Repair
Eyelid Surgery
Facelift
Facial Implants
General Reconstruction
Hand Surgery
Head and Neck Cancer Reconstruction
Head and Neck Skin Cancer Reconstruction
Injectable Fillers
Laser Hair Removal
Laser Skin Resurfacing
Lip Augmentation/Enhancement
Liposuction
Male Breast Reduction
Post Burn Reconstruction
Retin-A Treatments
Rhinoplasty
Scar Revision
Skin Cancer Removal
Spider Vein Treatment
Tattoo Removal
Thigh Lift
Tummy Tuck
Vascular Malformations
Ask a Surgeon
Dr. Gary Culbertson participates in the ASPS Ask A Surgeon service. View responses to public questions below.
Mommy makeover and scuba diving
Mommy MakeoverMember Response:
JennyK, Great to hear you have found a fabulous sport to enjoy. Scuba diving is amazing! We do allot of athletes in our office (runners, yoga & Zumba instructors). I usually recommend they do not participate in their strenuous activities for at least 6 to 8 weeks following a Tummy Tuck or Mommy Makeover (MMO). You will only do your MMO once in your life. Take some time out to recover. Best, Gary R Culbertson, MD, FACS
Inquiring
FaceliftMember Response:
Consider seeing the practitioner that manages your AODM first. An A1C can assit in determining if it is OK to proceed. Ask for Surgical Clearance. Then, pursue an ASPS Member in your area familar with FaceLifts in Diabetic patients. Best, Gary R Culbertson, MD, FACS
What would be needed?
Tummy TuckMember Response:
Yes, there are different types of TT's and patients that consider TT's. You appear to be one of the most common that we see. The Cosmetic or Aesthetic TT. Consider looking for a ASPS member in your area the primarly focuses in on LipoAbdominoplasty's in athletes. "Women are Hourglasses & Men are IceCream Cones." Best, Gary R Culbertson, MD, FACS
Hernia repair and tummy tuck
Tummy TuckMember Response:
Agree with Dr Glassman. Look for someone in your area that is an ASPS member & very familar with TT's. Best, Garty R Culbertson, MD, FACS
Blood Clots
Mommy MakeoverMember Response:
Yes, you have a very serious issue. Consider getting clearance/ direction from your HEMATOLOGIST! They might be able to guide you through the appropriate peri-operative treatment required in your case and identify the cause of your issue (i.e Factr V Lyden Deficiency??). Make sure to conviey to your surgeon your issues with DVT/ PE. Best, Gar R Culbertson, MD, FACS
Looking
Tummy TuckMember Response:
chiefsugar, Of course hernia's are fixed at the time of a Tummy Tuck. We do them all the time. Please look at the link here to see if there is someone that looks like you: https://garyculbertson.com/body-plastic-surgery-before-and-after/ . There are exclucsions such as, patients with LARGE RECURRENT Hernia's or hernia's already fixed with mess that have come back. Consider discussing your concerns with a member of the ASPS. They are experts in Abdominoplasty's and Lipo-Abdominoplasty's. Best, Gary R Culbertson, MD, FACS
Belly still looks like this 9 years postpartum
Tummy TuckMember Response:
Pretty normal appearance for someone seeking out a Cosmetic Tummy Tuck. Consider an ASPS member in your area. They are experts in Body Contouring. Best, Gary R Culbertson, MD, FACS
safety of combining procedures during a single surgery
Breast Implant RemovalMember Response:
First, consider getting surgical clearance from your primary care physician or cardiologist. Yes, palstic surgeons that are members of the ASPS combine these procedures in healthy patients. Best, Gary R Culbertson, MD, FACS
Will i be eligible for insurance coverage
Breast ReductionMember Response:
Insurance company's dictate health care coverage. Most insurance carriers are going to base the amount of breast tissue resected per breast in a patients breast reduction based upon a patients height and weight (BMI). A minimum resection weight per breast can often be 400 grams. In terms of weight remember there are 454 grams in a pound. A breast lift or mastopexy typically can have a lower weight of breast resection. Breast Lifts are considered "Cosmetic Surgery" and not normally covered service by the majority of health care insurance carriers. Best, Gary R Culbertson, MD, FACS
Swelling on one side for last 10 years
Tummy TuckMember Response:
An evaluation and some radiological studies most likely would be required to answer you questions. Though very expensive an MRI with contrast or weighted images may give you a much better insight into what has happened. Make sure to take your old operative reoport and pre- operative pictures to whomever you consult. Consider an ASPS surgeon very familar with revision cosmetic Abdominoplasty's in your area. Best, Gary R Culbertson, MD, FACS
4 Months Post Lower Bleph - What are These Creases?
Eyelid SurgeryMember Response:
What you see appears perfectly normal. That is the lower eyelid skin as it approaches the lower periocular skin. Sorry, you have a very good result. Best, Gary R Culbertson, MD, FASC
Fix diastasis recti and umbilical hernia in one operation please?
Tummy TuckMember Response:
Yes, your issue is not that uncommon. Groin & belly button hernia's are usually fixed at the time of a patients cosmetic surgical procedure. Please take a look at the Before & After/ Body Plastic Surgery/ Girth- LipoAbdominoplasty at out Web Site: Patient #10 (https://garyculbertson.com/body-plastic-surgery-before-and-after/ ). Tummy Tuck's or LipoAbdominoplasty's are not a service covered by your insurance carrier. Hernia repair can be and is usually done as a seperate procedure at a different sitting. Best, Gary R Culbertson, MD, FACS
Insurance and Tummy Tuck.
Tummy TuckMember Response:
A Tummy Tuck (TT) or Abdominoplasty are two entirely different things. They are like oranges & pineapples. A TT is a much more complicated surgical procedure that can include tightening of the abdomenial musculature, liposuction and countouring of the abdomen to produice an appealing abdominal appearance. A TT is considered to be Medically Unnecessary or a Cosmetic surgical procedure by insurance carriers. A Panniculectomy (Panni) is the simple removal of abdominal skin. These surgical procedures are two entirely different procedures and have two entirely different billing codes. The best way to think about it just like car repair after an accident. You are driving a vintage Chevy Nova and have a wreak. The front of the vehicle needs to be fixed/ replaced. At the the auto body shop that is covered by your auto insurance company you request/ demand a Rolls Royce front end. The parts and repair codes for these cars are entirely different. A TT is not a Panni. Best, G Culbertson
How likely is a muscle repair to rupture and would you know about it?
Tummy TuckMember Response:
Consider contacting your surgeon. Post operative abdominal swelling associated with an abdominoplasty could be a seroma. Best, Gary R Culbertson, MD, FACS
Postoperative Concern
Eyelid SurgeryMember Response:
A examination most likely will be required to address your concerns. Consider seeking out a second option with a local ASPS member that performs Occuplastic Surgery. Best, Gary R Culbertson, MD, FACS
safe for me?
Tummy TuckMember Response:
Can you have a TT? Yes, you can but, you are VERY HIGH RISK. Consider first getting whatever data you can on your Coagulopathy. You may be asked to SEE A HEMATLOGIST to confirm your Factor V Lyden deficiency. If you realy have this condition PREVENTIVE MEASURES MUST BE TAKEN BEFORE ANY SCHEDULED SURGERY. Ask your hematologist to make recomendations for peri-operative care with your surgery. This normally means ANTICOAGULATION PRE-OP. Peri-operative bleeding risks can be dramatically increased. Consider your elective cosmetic surgery in a hospital setting where you can/ should be watched closely after surgery for complications. For you this most likely would NOT BE AN OUTPATIENT PROCEDURE. Best, Gary R Culbertson, MD, FACS
Before and after patient photos from Dr. Gary Culbertson. Use the menu to filter by procedure.


Breast Augmentation


Skin Cancer Removal


Tummy Tuck


Mommy Makeover


Eyelid Ptosis Repair


Breast Reduction


Eyelid Surgery


Facelift


Breast Implant Removal


Head and Neck Skin Cancer Reconstruction
Payment Options
Our Location
Patient Testimonials
“I just wanted to drop you a note to thank you for everything you’ve done for me. My incisions are healing well, and I am feeling better every day. You’ve made a “huge” Improvement in my quality of life. Thank you again.” -Laurie — Columbia, SC
Thank you so much for the care and attention you provided me. My husband and I appreciate your taking the time to explain to us about my surgery before and after the operation. Your staff was so pleasant and professional. We appreciate the kindness and attention given to me.” -Linda — Florence, SC
“I have had the privilege of visiting and being your patient on three different occasions over the past 12 years. Even moving 3 hours away — I never considered anyone but you. The chin/cheek/CO2 Laser procedure you completed on me has already lifted my spirits. I feel as an older woman it is essential to do all we can to care for ourselves and for me that includes a bit of cosmetic surgery ever few years. On each visit to your office —-no matter the questions; you are always content to answer. Your expertise is comforting and your kindness and concerning nature incredible. During the decision making appointment; you give recommendations that are factually sound which has helped to ensure I make the best decisions that will offer the maximum benefits. You go beyond to explain and make sure I know what to expect as well as how to keep the treated areas clean….. “The Solution to Pollution is Dilution”. Upon the follow up visits your words are encouraging even during the swelling weeks when we all need a bit of up-lifting. When I have needed to ask a question after the appointment….. You are always there to send the answer. How privileged I have been to have found such an astonishing Plastic Surgeon. Grant is always accommodating as he knows I have three hours to travel for appointments. He has always been helpful and rearranged times for me and I so gratefully appreciate his gestures. When I have called in with a questions —- He returns the call in a short time frame. Belinda is amazing and awesome. She ensures I have my prescriptions (calls them in so they are ready when I arrive at the pharmacy) —directions for prep—-aftercare—-as well as notes that ensure I follow the daily meds and hygiene routine as needed. In the office she is considerate and genuine. With her proficiency and stellar personality — she delivers an ease to the patients with positive comments about the procedures and of course brags on you Dr. Culbertson as being the BEST!!!! Day of the surgery— On the day of the surgery I was greeted by Donna and Oscar. I had met Oscar during my past two surgeries. Their professionalism, kind-heartedness and compassionate nature makes them true priceless jewels on your team. The morning of surgery is a bit unsettling for anyone– but they go out of their way to keep you calm and at ease. They explain each step that they are taking to ensure the best possible experience during the surgery. What amazing professionals. Dr. Culbertson, Thank you so kindly for being a Proficient, Skilled, Professional and Thoughtful Doctor. I appreciate all that you have done for me and I have been satisfied with the results each time.” -Elizabeth — Charlotte, SC
“Your patience, sensitivity, and genuine concern was one of the main reasons that I chose you; not once, but twice to place my life and body in your hands. Your calming reassurance and soothing “bedside” manner meant so very much when I or my husband had any concerns or questions regarding the surgeries and recoveries on each. I had hidden myself behind my weight for well over 30 years. In 2008, I decided to have gastric bypass done. Two years later the weight was gone, but my self confidence and esteem were still holding me back. So, we did our homework and researched several plastic surgeons. Our Insurance would have paid for my Breast surgery to be done in Charleston, but we chose you above those in Columbia and even in Charleston at MUSC, after meeting you the first time, we knew you were the right one. You took so much of your time to sit with my husband and I and explained the pros and cons of my Mastopexy and then the Tummy Tuck. When we had concerns and called for you after hours, your response time was awesome each time. It was never over an hour before you returned our calls and would bring me into your office to make sure I was on track and to just basically reassure us. That is so rare this day and time as too many Doctors treat people as just another addition to their bank account. Like we are part of a big production line. I thank God for leading us to you Dr. C. You alter more than bodies; at least for me you did. You altered my whole outlook. The sensitivity and support of your fine staff helped make my surgeries go as well as I think they could have. They are some of the best people I have had the pleasure of getting to know. Competent, sensitive physicians like you are the prize of the medical profession. I tell anyone who asks, how I went from a size 26 to a size 8 – Thus, my saying ‘Body by God, Alterations by Dr. Culbertson’.” -Nell — Sumter, SC
“Hi, I had a tummy tuck done by this surgeon on Sept. 28, 2012. I was a physical mess! Everyone thought I was 8 months pregnant. I had a small waist line but my stomach protruded out very bad and it sat real high. I went to a few doctors that told me that my muscles were torn loose and there was nothing I could do except exercise but my stomach would still never go back to the way it use to be. I had four c-sections in the past. I had a hernia and a huge diastasis recti. A friend told be about Dr. Culbertson and allowed me to see the work he did on her. I was very impressed. I also saw a few other friends that went to other doctors and looked a mess! Dr. Culberston, with the help of God, worked a miracle on me! A lot of people didn’t recognize me after the surgery because I was so small. I am a diabetic and he took very good care of me in the healing process along with making sure my diabetes was under control. He has years and years of experience doing this type of work. He don’t just do enough to get by or to get your money, he operates on you to achieve not only the best look possible, but he realize his reputation depends on it and he builds his clientele by EXAMPLE! Your will not go wrong if you choose Dr. Culbertson. I was one on his worst cases and I look AMAZING! If you don’t want to take just my word for it , schedule a consultation and ask to see a Sept 28th 2012 case, and if that don’t stop you from looking at any other surgeon, nothing will!!!!! Thanks for everything Dr. Culbertson! You are truly the best! My experience with you and your staff has been GREAT!” -B. E. — Florence, SC
“Words can never fully express how much we appreciate all that you have done for Mom. You are not only a skilled physician; you are truly a compassionate one! This has meant so much to as during such a difficult ordeal. It makes a hard situation a little easier when you know you can trust and depend on your physician. Thank you for all you do. You truly are an angel.” -Jackie, Carla & Debra — Sumter, SC