Get the real deal on beauty treatments—real doctors, real reviews, and real photos with real results.Here's how we earn your trust.

Neil J. Zemmel, MD, FACS

Board Certified Plastic Surgeon
11934 W. Broad St., Ste. 200, Richmond, Virginia
4.9 | 121 Reviews
202 Questions Answered
This provider is not currently accepting consultations through RealSelf

MAKE SURE YOUR DOCTOR IS REALSELF VERIFIED

RealSelf Verified doctors complete our multistep verification process to ensure they are in good medical standing, display their experience and most performed procedures, have high patient satisfaction ratings, and respond to consultation requests quickly. Just look for the RealSelf Verified badge.

FIND A VERIFIED DOCTOR

ARE YOU DR. ZEMMEL?

Claim your profile now— it costs nothing! Build trust by highlighting education, board certifications, and hospital privileges. List treatments, and include all procedures you perform. Get involved by uploading before & after procedure photos and answering questions from prospective patients.

CLAIM YOUR PROFILE
FEATURED DOCTOR
SEE ALL

Before and After Photos

QUESTIONS ANSWERED

A majority of the swelling will go down after the first week, but the remainder can take months to completely go away.  Make sure to wear your abdominal binder or garmet and follow your physicians post operative instructions.  Be patient with the results but always discuss concerns with your plastic surgeon. I hope this helps you. 

Kindest regards,

Neil J. Zemmel

provider-Neil J. Zemmel, MD, FACS-photo

Neil J. Zemmel, MD, FACS

Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

4.9 | 121 reviews

Did you have a liposuction of flanks? That would explain the bruising of the sides.  As for the bruising around the umbilicus it appears fairly normal, as some people are more prone to bruising then others.  I would still contact your plastic surgeon with any concerns to make sure there are no complications. I hope this help you.

Kindest regards,

Neil J. Zemmel

provider-Neil J. Zemmel, MD, FACS-photo

Neil J. Zemmel, MD, FACS

Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

4.9 | 121 reviews

I would recommend calling your PS and finding out who is covering the practice.  It is possible to have a suture abscess where an almost pimple forms around one of the sutures.  It is easilty resolved with removal of that suture piece and antibiotic cream.  It is important to have it looked at to avoid the incision opening up a bit. I hope this helps you.

Kindest regards,

Neil J. Zemmel

provider-Neil J. Zemmel, MD, FACS-photo

Neil J. Zemmel, MD, FACS

Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

4.9 | 121 reviews

It is very common to have a shelf appearance immediately after breast augmentation.  The skin takes weeks to stretch and adapt over the new implant.  And you are correct that the final results are not visible until about three months after surgery. 

Kindest regards,

Neil J. Zemmel

provider-Neil J. Zemmel, MD, FACS-photo

Neil J. Zemmel, MD, FACS

Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

4.9 | 121 reviews

Thank you for the pictures.  It really depends on your goals on whether or not a lift is needed.  Implants alone will give you a very natural look if that is what you are looking for.  However, if you are a desiring a tighter breast pocket around the implant then you may need a small lift.  I hope this help you.

Kindest regards,

Neil J. Zemmel

provider-Neil J. Zemmel, MD, FACS-photo

Neil J. Zemmel, MD, FACS

Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

4.9 | 121 reviews

Thank you for the picture.  It is common after breast augmentation to have some assymetry for the first couple of weeks.  It can take up to 3 months for the implants to drop to their final position.  In regards to the pain, most of my patients have one breast that is more sore than the other, usually their dominant hand side.  The pain will get better! I hope this helps you.

Kindest regards,

Neil j. Zemmel

provider-Neil J. Zemmel, MD, FACS-photo

Neil J. Zemmel, MD, FACS

Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

4.9 | 121 reviews

Thank you for the picture.  I appears that in addition to the implant you needed a small periareolar lift.  This would decrease the size of your areola as well as lift the position of the nipple to even them out.  It is possible to do this as a second operation.  I hope this helps you.

Kindest regards

Neil J. Zemmel

provider-Neil J. Zemmel, MD, FACS-photo

Neil J. Zemmel, MD, FACS

Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

4.9 | 121 reviews

Tanning can be harmful to scars for a full year after surgery.  If you are going to get in the sun or lay in the tanning bed make sure your breasts are covered with a high spf sunscreen, zinc oxide.  If you do not, the scars may come in raised and hyperpigmented. I hope this helps you.

Kindest regards,

Neil j. Zemmel

provider-Neil J. Zemmel, MD, FACS-photo

Neil J. Zemmel, MD, FACS

Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

4.9 | 121 reviews

This is actually a very common fear among patients.  Although nothing I can say will completely ease your fears, I can tell you that the anesthesia is statistically the safest part of the entire procedure.  You are closely monitored by your anesthesia provider throughout the entire surgery to ensure your safety.  I hope this helps you.

Kindest regards,

Neil J. Zemmel

provider-Neil J. Zemmel, MD, FACS-photo

Neil J. Zemmel, MD, FACS

Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

4.9 | 121 reviews

I usually recommend staying off of the amphetamines for a couple of days following surgery but then after that it is fine.  Of course, your PS is your best resource. I hope this helps you.

Kindes regards,

Neil J Zemmel

provider-Neil J. Zemmel, MD, FACS-photo

Neil J. Zemmel, MD, FACS

Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

4.9 | 121 reviews

Neil J. Zemmel, MD, FACS reviews

Neil J. Zemmel, MD, FACS

RATING DETAILS

4.9
121 reviews

All reviews are evaluated by the RealSelf team to ensure they're written by patients like you and meet our guidelines. Your results may vary. Doctors can never pay to have reviews removed or hidden.

START YOUR REVIEW FOR
Neil J. Zemmel, MD, FACS
Select your rating:
10 Results
Gynecomastia Surgery

Tasteful791210

1 month post-op, gynecomastia surgery could not have been better

When I began my research to consider Gynecomastia surgery, I took the time to screen who I determined were the two top rated surgeons in Richmond. After meeting and consulting with both Doctors, Dr. Zemmel was by far the most conservative in recommending and explaining how he would conduct my surgery. Once my surgery was scheduled and successfully conducted, I received ongoing communications from his practice for my follow up appointments. Dr. Zemmel is a highly skilled surgeon and is very caring. My entire experience could not have been better. His staff members were a joy to work with. Kristin helped me set up interest free financing for the costs of my surgery, spread over a 2-year period. She also served as my patient advocate in answering my initial questions. Amanda and Beth, his two medical assistants, did an outstanding job in helping me at various pre- and post-surgery appointments. I could not have had a better outcome and highly would recommend Dr. Zemmel.

Breast Reduction

Luminous533468

Perfection and Professionalism: breast reduction and a mini tummy tuck

I had a breast reduction and a mini tummy tuck. My experience with this practice was amazing not only are the results. Wonderful but his level of professionalism is barn on. When he did my mini tummy tuck, I had huge awful scar adhesions from the prior cesarean, and they change that so drastically.

Tummy Tuck

Terrific606753

Flawless incisions & beautiful, natural-looking tummy tuck results

Dr. Neil Zemmel is a true expert in his craft. As a plastic surgeon, he is without a doubt one of the most exceptional professionals I have ever had the pleasure of working with. His skill, expertise, and dedication to his patients are truly extraordinary. From the moment I walked into his office, I was impressed by the level of care and attention that Dr. Zemmel and his staff provided. They were all incredibly welcoming and supportive, and Dr. Zemmel took the time to listen carefully to my concerns and goals. Throughout the entire process, Dr. Zemmel was incredibly communicative, ensuring that I fully understood the procedures and what to expect. His attention to detail and precision were evident every step of the way, and I felt completely at ease in his capable hands. The results of my procedure exceeded all of my expectations. Dr. Zemmel's expertise and skill were evident in every aspect of the outcome, from the flawless incisions to the beautiful, natural-looking results. I am absolutely thrilled with the results along with his exceptional follow-up visits post-surgery is phenomenal. I cannot recommend Dr. Zemmel highly enough. In short, if you are looking for a truly exceptional plastic surgeon who is dedicated to providing the highest level of care and expertise, look no further than Dr. Neil Zemmel. He is a true professional in every sense of the word, and I feel incredibly fortunate to have had the opportunity to work with him.

Facelift

1Wintercreek

It is so natural that you can hardly tell I had anything done

OMG Dr. Zemmel changed my life. I'm in my upper 60's and wanted a neck lift. He recommended a face and neck lift. After several consultations with him, I decided to have the surgery. I could not believe the change in my looks. It is so natural that you can hardly tell I had anything done. My friends can't figure out how I look so good. He did EXACTLY what he said he would and my recovery was EXACTLY how he said it would be. Very little pain, very little bruising and very little swelling. If I ever do anything again, I would not even consider going to anyone but him. He is amazing!

Breast Augmentation

mkbronner

I would recommend no one other than Dr. Zemmel

Dr. Zemmel and his entire staff treated me like family from the very first time I stepped in the office. This entire process has exceeded all of my expectations. I could not be more happy with my results. I would recommend no one other than Dr. Zemmel. He truly is the best!

$8,000Sientra Breast Implants

meegbarber

My Newfound Confidence

Dr. Zemmel and his fabulous team gave me my confidence back with my Sentra silicone gel implants! I told him what I wanted and he went above my expectations. I’m so confident now and everyone sees it!!

$8,301Masculinizing Top Surgery

Gorgeous591735

Button-Hole Top Surgery

I am astounded with my results! I am an FtM Trans man and came to Dr. Zemmel and his staff for top surgery. I had been to a couple of other consultations and gotten quotes from various providers but really was having a hard time being able to find someone that would be willing to perform a Button-Hole procedure for me. When I first met with Dr. Zemmel he really took the time to listen to what I was looking for and what was important to me in terms of my results. Him and his staff were so kind and considerate. I wish I had more follow-ups! As someone in the LGBTQ community I was completely comfortable at his location. It's super relaxing, and feels like a spa, on top of it all they accept insurance and are amazingly helpful in the paperwork process. I cannot thank him and his staff enough for giving me this experience and ability to live my life truly as myself!

Tummy Tuck
Forceful7002

Forceful7002

I'm only 14 days post op and I look and feel amazing!

Dr Zemmel was exactly the doctor I needed and who I was looking for with great personality and great bedside manner! His practice is friendly and professional with great humor! I have done this research for about 2 years and finally after being an empty nester I decided it was my time! Dr Zemmel is the only plastic surgeon in Richmond, VA that requires an overnight stay in hospital with 24 hour care! Talk about not having to worry for first 24 hours with round the clock care!!!!! Let's talk results I'm only 14 days Post Op and I look and feel amazing!

$8,000Breast Augmentation
onlyeboni

onlyeboni

Best choice ever! Breast aug with lift after baby

So, I have wanted bigger breast since puberty. However, i worked out alot so breast was never my fave feature. my mom wanted me to wait until had a baby. Lord, my breast were huge.. sadly, i didnt get to keep them after breast feeding. So 2 years later my research began exsintsively. I go consults from spectrum in miami, and 3 doctors here in richmond, va. Miami was cheaper however the total cost etc was basically the sane due to flight and hotel. Every Surgeron EXCEPT Dr. Neil Zemmel wanted to cut me one way for lift and another for insertion. which means SCRARES.. i didnt want noticeable scaring because of my dark complexion. Dr. Zemmel was nice, funny, laid back, and very attentive of my goals. He advised that he could lift and insert through my nipple. I youtubed what the procedure would look like and the results.. So, May 9,2019(yesterday) i had it done. Showed up at 6am, got prepped, marked, and rolled back by 8(the scheduled time) and i was waking up out of recovery by 11:30. surgery was only about 1.5 hours. I was given 4 meds prior too so that they would already be filled and ready once i got home. Only down fall was the anthesthia affects everyone diffrent and i was puking and had nausea most of the day even with nasuea med provided. My breast are nice, very little pain, mostly pressure and soreness. Taking antibotics, percs, and valium as instructed. my followup was today. His PA gave me update on switching bras, showering, and my next followup in a week to teach me how to massage. That i need to contiune to sleep elevated and on my back. I got 375cc in both. Didnt want to go too big. I am 5’7, 160 toned . I would definetly recommend him to anyone! Updated on 11 May 2019: Amazing, which is funny when referring to surgery! I warned themmumtiple times inwas nervous because i had never had surgery like this before. Dr. Zemmel and ALL his staff of ladies were nice, supportive, and more. His pa showed me the work he did on her. Ladies still in the lobby spoke to me who had just got work done on breast. So i knew after 3 consults with others he was my best choice. I had my pre-op may 3rd and surgery was yesterday may 9th. So you know if i am already posting it must have been great!!!Now the “only” negative is anthesthia.. it affects everyone diffrent. I was soo nasueas that i had to make myself vomit to get that feeling out my system. It felt like i had a bad hangover.. Once i did that i was great, pain scale of 4-5 out of 10, very sleepy, and no compliants, my follow up was today, got to see my breast, took guaze off, replaced bra, and advised me on next steps and that i have to return in a week.  Updated on 11 May 2019: Here is just an poc of day i got home from surgery.. i suggest buying extra bras like the one they will switch you too ahead of time. once this one was taken off they gave me a front strap hanes one to wear for another 6 weeks Updated on 17 May 2019: okay, surgery was May 9th, follow-up May 10, 1 week follow-up today May 17th. I don’t mind follow ups because i want you to care as much as i do about these implants. So today checked for swelling, healing, and how stitches were doing. He cut some loose stitches. He nurse or PA showed me how to Massage them the right way 3 times a day and that is VERY important. i can now wear any bra i want just no under wire and i still have to be careful with lifting and arm movements because of pec muscles! I love them.. !!!! Updated on 19 May 2019: i just wanted to show more stages of my journey before child, after breast feeding a child, and my new upgrades be 40 in october present to myself. cant wait till swelling goes down on stitches disolve

$16,601Tummy Tuck

princessnik1976

Amazing wok in progress

As I review others before and after pics through this site, I am grateful for finding Dr.Zemmel and staff. I feel blessed to had found a talented surgeon that was able to make everything seamless with minimal pain and/or complications. 100% recommended!