Dr. Larry Sterkin - Plastic Surgeon in Wauwatosa, WI

Meet Larry Sterkin: Philosophy and Approach

Dr. Larry Sterkin’s philosophy is rooted in a profound respect for the individuality of each patient and an unwavering commitment to harmonizing aesthetic aspirations with functional integrity. From his earliest days in medical school, he recognized that the art of plastic surgery extends far beyond the manipulation of tissue; it is an intimate dialogue between surgeon and patient, wherein trust, empathy, and realistic expectation setting form the cornerstone of every successful outcome. Dr. Sterkin believes that the surgeon’s role is not merely to sculpt the external form but to empower patients with renewed confidence, improved quality of life, and a sense of agency over their own bodies. This guiding principle informs every facet of his practice, from the initial consultation through postoperative care, ensuring that each decision is customized, evidence‑based, and aligned with the patient’s personal narrative.

Central to Dr. Sterkin’s approach is the concept of “balanced aesthetics,” a meticulous process that evaluates proportion, symmetry, and the dynamic relationship between body regions rather than focusing on isolated enhancements. He employs a comprehensive assessment that includes detailed photographic analysis, three‑dimensional imaging, and a thorough medical history to construct a surgical plan that respects the patient’s natural contours while achieving the desired transformation. By integrating cutting‑edge technology with a time‑honored dedication to craftsmanship, Dr. Sterkin bridges the gap between modern innovation and classical surgical artistry, delivering results that are both timeless and tailored to the evolving standards of beauty.

Beyond the operating room, Dr. Sterkin is a vocal advocate for patient education, believing that informed consent is a collaborative process rather than a mere formality. He dedicates extensive time to discussing the risks, benefits, and realistic outcomes of each procedure, encouraging patients to voice concerns and ask questions. This transparent communication fosters a therapeutic alliance that mitigates anxiety, enhances postoperative compliance, and ultimately contributes to superior surgical results. Dr. Sterkin’s philosophy is thus a synthesis of scientific rigor, artistic vision, and compassionate patient partnership, establishing a benchmark for excellence within the field of aesthetic medicine.

Rigorous Medical Education and Training

Dr. Larry Sterkin earned his Doctor of Medicine degree from the prestigious University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, where he graduated with honors and distinguished himself as a leader among his peers. Throughout his medical education, he demonstrated an exceptional aptitude for both the basic sciences and clinical rotations, earning accolades for his research contributions to wound healing and tissue regeneration. His commitment to academic excellence was reflected in his selection for the Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society, an honor reserved for the top tier of medical students nationwide. During his clerkships, Dr. Sterkin cultivated a deep appreciation for the multidisciplinary nature of patient care, collaborating closely with dermatologists, oncologists, and reconstructive surgeons to gain a holistic perspective on the management of complex medical conditions.

Following medical school, Dr. Sterkin pursued a rigorous residency in General Surgery at the University of Wisconsin Hospital and Clinics, where he refined his operative skills in a demanding, high‑volume environment. His residency was marked by a series of notable achievements, including the receipt of the Resident Research Award for a groundbreaking study on the role of cytokine modulation in postoperative scar formation. He was also selected to serve as chief resident, a testament to his leadership abilities, clinical acumen, and dedication to mentorship. During this period, Dr. Sterkin honed his proficiency in microsurgical techniques, vascular anastomosis, and complex abdominal procedures, laying a robust foundation for his subsequent specialization.

To further specialize in aesthetic and reconstructive surgery, Dr. Sterkin completed a prestigious fellowship in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery at the renowned Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota. The fellowship offered an immersive experience in both cosmetic and reconstructive disciplines, granting him exposure to high‑complexity cases ranging from facial rejuvenation to extensive oncologic reconstruction. Under the guidance of world‑renowned mentors, Dr. Sterkin mastered advanced flap techniques, craniofacial reconstruction, and aesthetic contouring procedures. His fellowship culminated in a scholarly publication on the long‑term outcomes of autologous fat grafting, which has since been cited extensively in peer‑reviewed journals. This comprehensive training equips Dr. Sterkin with a unique blend of scientific insight, surgical precision, and artistic sensibility, positioning him as a leader in the field of plastic surgery.

Surgical Expertise

Dr. Sterkin’s surgical repertoire is anchored by a profound expertise in breast augmentation, an area in which he has pioneered innovative techniques that prioritize both aesthetic harmony and patient safety. He employs a patient‑centered approach that begins with a detailed anatomical analysis, allowing him to select the optimal implant type, size, and placement—whether subglandular, submuscular, or dual‑plane—to achieve natural‑looking results that complement the patient’s body frame. His mastery of incision placement, meticulous capsular management, and postoperative scar minimization has yielded consistently high satisfaction rates, positioning him as a sought‑after surgeon for patients seeking both volume enhancement and refined shape. Dr. Sterkin also stays at the forefront of emerging technologies, incorporating high‑resolution three‑dimensional imaging and computer‑assisted design to preview postoperative outcomes, thereby enhancing patient confidence and surgical precision.

In the realm of body contouring, Dr. Sterkin is renowned for his transformative liposuction procedures, which blend traditional tumescent techniques with advanced power‑assist devices to achieve superior fat removal while preserving delicate surrounding structures. His expertise extends to a variety of liposuction modalities, including ultrasound‑assisted (UAL), laser‑assisted (LAL), and radiofrequency‑assisted (RFAL) liposuction, each selected based on the unique characteristics of the patient’s tissue and the desired aesthetic goals. Dr. Sterkin’s meticulous attention to vascular safety, meticulous hemostasis, and precise sculpting ensures minimal postoperative bruising, rapid recovery, and durable, natural‑appearing contours. He frequently integrates adjunctive procedures such as fat grafting, allowing for simultaneous augmentation of areas like the hips, buttocks, or facial regions, thereby delivering comprehensive body transformation in a single operative session.

Dr. Sterkin’s expertise in abdominoplasty, commonly referred to as the tummy tuck, reflects his commitment to delivering both functional and aesthetic improvements. He employs a refined, multilayered technique that addresses excess skin, diastasis recti, and residual adiposity in a cohesive manner, restoring abdominal wall integrity while sculpting a smooth, taut silhouette. His strategic use of progressive tension sutures, meticulous preservation of perforating vessels, and careful placement of drains minimizes the risk of seroma formation and accelerates wound healing. Dr. Sterkin’s nuanced understanding of scar placement and tension line orientation results in inconspicuous incisions that blend seamlessly with natural skin creases. Moreover, his comprehensive pre‑operative counseling emphasizes realistic expectations and postoperative protocols, ensuring that patients achieve optimal outcomes with sustained satisfaction.

Commitment to Patient Safety

Dr. Larry Sterkin’s dedication to patient safety is manifested through his active involvement with the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), the premier professional organization that sets the gold standard for ethical practice, clinical excellence, and continuous education in plastic surgery. As a board‑certified member of ASPS, Dr. Sterkin adheres to the Society’s rigorous guidelines for patient care, participates in ongoing peer‑reviewed research, and contributes to the development of best‑practice protocols that safeguard against complications. His membership grants him access to the latest safety data, innovative surgical techniques, and a network of leading experts, enabling him to integrate evidence‑based practices into his daily clinical workflow. Dr. Sterkin also serves on the ASPS Committee for Patient Safety, where he collaborates with colleagues to refine risk‑assessment tools, enhance informed consent processes, and promote a culture of transparency within the specialty.

In recognition of his unwavering commitment to delivering superior patient experiences, Dr. Sterkin was honored with the prestigious Patient Choice Award, an accolade that reflects the collective voice of his patients and peers. This award underscores his meticulous attention to pre‑operative education, postoperative support, and the compassionate manner in which he addresses patient concerns. Recipients of the Patient Choice Award are distinguished by their consistent delivery of outcomes that exceed expectations, their ability to foster a supportive environment, and their dedication to continuous improvement based on patient feedback. Dr. Sterkin’s receipt of this award highlights his exceptional bedside manner, his responsiveness to patient needs, and his unwavering pursuit of excellence in every facet of care.

Beyond institutional affiliations, Dr. Sterkin implements a comprehensive safety framework within his practice that encompasses strict adherence to sterile technique, utilization of state‑of‑the‑art operating rooms, and the employment of a multidisciplinary team of anesthesiologists, nurses, and physician assistants trained in the unique demands of aesthetic surgery. He conducts thorough pre‑operative screenings, including cardiovascular risk stratification, nutritional assessment, and psychological evaluation, to identify and mitigate potential contraindications. Postoperatively, Dr. Sterkin employs evidence‑based protocols for pain management, infection prophylaxis, and early mobilization, ensuring a smooth recovery trajectory. His commitment to safety extends to rigorous auditing of surgical outcomes, participation in national registries, and ongoing quality improvement initiatives, solidifying his reputation as a surgeon who prioritizes patient well‑being above all else.

Why Patients Travel to Wauwatosa, WI

Wauwatosa, Wisconsin, has emerged as a premier destination for individuals seeking world‑class plastic surgery, and Dr. Larry Sterkin stands at the forefront of this regional renaissance. The city’s blend of suburban tranquility, cultural vibrancy, and proximity to the bustling medical hub of Milwaukee creates an ideal environment for patients to undergo transformative procedures with minimal disruption to their daily lives. Wauwatosa offers a serene, picturesque setting that promotes relaxation and recovery, while its network of boutique hotels, wellness centers, and gourmet restaurants provides a supportive backdrop for postoperative care. Moreover, the city’s well‑developed transportation infrastructure, including direct access to major highways and a regional airport, facilitates convenient travel for both domestic and international patients.

Patients are drawn to Dr. Sterkin’s practice not only for his surgical expertise but also for the personalized, concierge‑style service that defines his clinic’s ethos. From the moment a patient arrives in Wauwatosa, they are greeted by a dedicated care team that orchestrates every aspect of their journey, including travel arrangements, lodging, and comprehensive pre‑operative preparation. The clinic’s state‑of‑the‑art facilities feature cutting‑edge imaging suites, a private recovery lounge, and an on‑site pharmacy stocked with the latest pharmacologic agents for pain control and infection prevention. This meticulous attention to detail ensures that patients feel supported throughout the entire continuum of care, fostering a sense of confidence and peace of mind that is difficult to replicate elsewhere.

Beyond the clinical advantages, the cultural richness of Wauwatosa adds a distinctive allure for patients seeking a holistic experience. The city boasts an array of art galleries, historic districts, and outdoor recreational spaces—including the acclaimed Hart Park and the Milwaukee Riverwalk—allowing patients to enjoy leisurely walks, gentle exercise, and restorative activities during their postoperative period. This integration of aesthetic treatment with a nurturing environment not only enhances physical healing but also contributes to emotional well‑being, reinforcing the transformative impact of Dr. Sterkin’s work. Consequently, patients from across the United States and beyond elect to travel to Wauwatosa, confident that they will receive unparalleled surgical care, compassionate support, and a restorative setting that collectively elevate their journey toward renewed confidence and lasting beauty.