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Meet the Surgeon

Michael T. Somenek MD

dr-somenek-background

Facial Plastic Surgeon

Dr. Somenek

Michael Somenek, M.D., is a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon in Washington, D.C. and New York City whose practice offers specialized cosmetic and reconstructive services. In addition to his high level of experience and talent, Dr. Somenek is also a compassionate and warm surgeon who finds personal fulfillment in helping patients rejuvenate their appearances and their confidence. Request a consultation online to meet personally with Dr. Somenek, or call our office to schedule a consultation.

American Board of Otolaryngology logo
American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery logo
American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery logo

Michael T. Somenek MD

Training &
Experience

Dr. Somenek received his undergraduate degree in microbiology from the University of Miami and his medical degree from Rush University Medical Center in Chicago. He stayed on at this prestigious institution for 5 additional years of postgraduate training in Otolaryngology / Head and Neck Surgery. He then completed an intensive fellowship in Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery under the tutelage of world-renowned facial plastic surgeons Dr. J. Regan Thomas (past president of the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery) and Dr. Dean Toriumi at the University of Illinois in Chicago. In 2018, Dr. Somenek joined Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Troy Pittman to create Somenek+PittmanMD – Advanced Plastic Surgery, an upscale concierge plastic surgery practice in the West End area of Washington, DC, just steps from historic Georgetown. Dr. Somenek is a member of the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery.

Broad Knowledge With Specialized Interests

As a facial plastic surgeon, Dr. Somenek specializes in a variety of procedures, including popular aesthetic facial surgery procedures such as deep-plane facelifts and eyelid surgery. He also has a specific professional interest in Rhinoplasty. Rhinoplasty patients come from around the US and abroad with complex revisionary issues with their noses. Rhinoplasty is one of the most difficult facial plastic surgeries and Dr. Somenek understands it’s intricacies and how to make a nose aesthetically pleasing, while preserving the function of the nose so you can breath postoperatively. In addition to Rhinoplasty, Dr. Somenek has specific expertise in facelift, eyelid lift, chin augmentation and browlift surgery. Dr. Somenek also performs a variety of minimally invasive procedures, both surgical and non-surgical. Surgical options include facial liposuction, the endoscopic brow lift, and the S Lift. These techniques require only very small incisions but can have a dramatic effect on a person’s appearance in the hands of a qualified surgeon with a trained aesthetic eye such as Dr. Somenek. Dr. Somenek’s intensive training in the complex structures of the face, head, and neck make him stand out among plastic surgeons in Washington, D.C. He is a trainer and teacher to other physicians across the country on all injectables and frequently sees patients that need an expert opinion. Even for less invasive procedures such as cosmetic injections, he can use his broad knowledge to administer precise treatments that exceed each patient’s expectations.

Recognized as a Top Doctor

Dr. Somenek has been awarded Top Doctor by Castle Connolly in 2023 and 2024, an honor reserved for the top 7% of US physicians.  In 2023, 2022 and 2021, Somenek+PittmanMD was voted Best Plastic Surgery and Best MedSpa by the readers of DC Modern Luxury Magazine.  From 2018-2023, Dr. Somenek has been named Top Doctor in Washingtonian Magazine and in 2023 and 2024 by Northern Virginia Magazine.   Dr. Somenek has also been named the Face of Rhinoplasty by Washingtonian for six consecutive years (2019-2024).   DC Modern Luxury Magazine has featured Dr. Somenek and Dr. Pittman as DC Power Players in 2019, 2020 and 2021 as well as Top Healthcare Professionals in 2021 and 2022.  As an experienced rhinoplasty specialist, Dr. Somenek has earned the distinction of Top Doctor by RealSelf, a respected online forum that provides patients considering  aesthetic procedures access to specialists in a variety of disciplines.  Dr. Somenek was recently chosen to join the esteemed advisory board of Aedit, an online aesthetic resource for patients interested in Plastic Surgery.

Aesthetic
Values

Facial proportions and balance are the top priority for Dr. Somenek when analyzing and treating a face. All too commonly, people create changes to their face that do not look natural or fit the individual’s features. This leads to the “fake” or “plastic” look that most people want to avoid. By adhering to the basics of proportions and facial harmony, Dr. Somenek’s goal with each patient is to achieve a natural and refreshed look. Achieving your aesthetic goals involves a comprehensive approach. Dr. Somenek uses computer imaging and photography to analyze the face and understands that lighting and shadows can play a role in how we perceive ourselves. Everyone’s face and individual anatomy is different and Dr. Somenek understands that not everyone should be held to the same standard as to what looks good. So many factors contribute to an ideal outcome and all unique attributes should be considered including the individual’s anatomy, ethnicity, and facial shape. All of this is put into perspective and considered when you visit him for any type of treatment. Listening to each patient’s needs and desires helps to tailor the best treatment plan for you. Dr. Somenek prides himself in his ability to communicate and relate to each of his patients. When at the office, he takes his time to sit and understand your motivations for any type of procedure or enhancement that you are interested in.

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More Than a Surgeon

Dr. Somenek and his team understand that we are more than just a team of medical practitioners. Rather, we become a vital part of each patient’s personal journey toward self-contentment and a better quality of life. Dr. Somenek finds vast personal fulfillment in that role, and that’s why he takes the time to truly get to know each patient and his or her motivations for surgery. Dr. Somenek has the knowledge, skill, and experience to provide beautiful results, but it is his compassion that spurs patients to trust him and welcome him into their lives.

 

  • University of Miami
    Coral Gables, FL 33124 BS, Microbiology
    1998-2002

  • Rush University Medical Center Chicago, IL 60612 MD
    2002-2006

  • Post Graduate Training
    Rush University Medical Center 60612
    Department of Otolaryngology
    Chicago, IL
    2006-2011

  • Fellowship
    University of Illinois-Chicago
    Chicago, IL 60612
    Department of Otolaryngology
    Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Director:Regan Thomas
    Dean Toriumi
    July 2011-2012

  • Board Certification – Otolarynology

  • Board Certification – Facial Plastic Surgery(ABFPRS)

  • District of Columbia

  • North Carolina

  • New York

  • Florida

  • Illinois

  • Maryland

  • Virginia

  • Galderma
    Otolaryngology
    Facial Plastic Surgery(ABFPRS)
    GAIN Trainer 2014-Present
    Clinical Trial Investigator multiple ongoing injectable trials 2018-Present Advisory Boards
    Consultant
    Speaker

  • Merz
    Clinical Trial Investigator 2022-Present Advisory Board
    Speaker

  • Cutera
    Speaker
    Clinical Trial Investigator 2018-Present

  • Suneva
    Advisory Board
    Speaker
    Consultant

  • Lutronic
    Clinical Trial Investigator 2023-Present Speaker

  • Evolus
    Clinical Trial Investigator 2023-Present

  • Rion
    Consultant
    Clinical Trial Investigator 2022-Present

  • AAFPRS
    Co-chair and organizer of the annual AAFPRS meeting 2021 Chair of Young Physicians Committee
    Member of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Steering Committee

  • Vegas Cosmetic Surgery
    Scientific Advisory Board 2021-2024

  • Nikolis A, Enright KM, Fabi SG, Somenek M, Cartier H, Avelar L, Franco J, Haddad A, Angelo-Khattar M, Huang J, Safran T, Prygova I, Dayan S. Consensus Statements on Managing Aesthetic Needs in Prescription Medication-Driven Weight Loss Patients: An International, Multidisciplinary Delphi Study. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2025 Apr;24(4)

  • Rivkin A, Pikoos T, Somenek M, Viscomi B. Delivering an Inclusive Experience for Patients of All Genders in the Aesthetics Practice: A Roundtable Discussion. Aesthet Surg J Open Forum. 2024 Dec 30;7

  • Haddad A, Somenek M, Palm M, et al. Injectable Poly-L-Lactic Acid for Body Aesthetic Treatments: An International Consensus on Evidence Assessment and Practical Recommendations. Aesthetic Plast Surg. 2024 Nov 26. doi: 10.1007/s00266-024-04499-9. Epub ahead of print. PMID: 39592491.

  • Proffer S, Halaas Y, Durairaj KK, Somenek M, Behfar A, Wyles SP. Full Face Application of Topical Platelet Extract for Skin Rejuventation in Monozygotic Twins. Skinmed. 2024 Sep 17;22(4):298-300.

  • Martschin C, Bahhady R, Li J, Loureiro W, Mansour W, Metelitsa A, Minocha K, Somenek M, Taghetchian K, Tienthavorn T. Development and Validation of a Novel Holistic Skin Quality Assessment Scale. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2024 Oct 9.

  • Hennessy K, Dayan S, Somenek M, Bay S, Witfill K, Fabi S. Aesthetic Considerations for Treating Lesbian, Gay, and Bisexual Patients: A Review and Our Experience. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2024 May;17(5):34-39.

  • Somenek M. Minimally Invasive Facial Rejuvenation: Energy-Based Devices. Facial Plast Surg Clin North Am. April 2024.

  • Somenek M. Hyperdilute Calcium Hydroxylapatite for the Treatment of Perioral Rhytids: A Pilot Study, Aesthetic Surgery Journal Open Forum, 2024.

  • Somenek M, Handfield C, Behfar A, Wyles S. Effect of Topical Platelet Extract for Post-Procedural Skin Recovery with Fractional Carbon Dioxide Skin Laser Resurfacing. J Clin Cosmet Dermatol 8(1) 2024.

  • Somenek M, Romero NJ. Brow lift and Brow Position for Gender Affirmation. Otolaryngol Clin North Am.
    Aug;55(4):797-808. 2023

  • Somenek M. Eyelid defect reconstruction. Plastic and Aesthetic Research. 2022; 9: 16.

  • Parsa KM, Somenek M. Nonsurgical Jaw Contouring: A Multi-Faceted Approach. Facial Plast Surg Clin North Am. Aug;30(3):399-406. 2022

  • Mandavia R, Somenek MD, et al. Combination Radiofrequency Microneedling and Carbon Dioxide Laser for acne scarring: A systematic review and retrospective case series across two centres. J Cosmet Dermatol. Jul 27 2022.

  • Proffer S, Somenek M, et al. Efficacy and Tolerability of Topical Platelet Exosomes for Skin Rejuvenation: Six Week Results. Aesthetic Surg J. Jun 11:sjac149 2022.

  • Schlessinger J, Somenek M, et.al AbobotulinumtoxinA Treatment of Glabellar Lines Using a New Re- constitution and Injection Volume: Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Data. J Drugs Dermatol.
    20(9):988-995 2021

  • Somenek M, Pittman T, et al. A Multi-Site, Single-Blinded, Prospective Pilot Clinical Trial for Non- Invasive Reduction of the Abdomen and Flanks Using a Monopolar 2 MHz Radiofrequency Device. Lasers Surg Med 53(3):337-343 2021

  • Somenek M. Exploring Facial Gender Affirmation Surgery. Facial Plast Surg Clin North Am. 27(2) 2019

  • Somenek M. Gender Related Facial Analysis. Facial Plastic Surgery Clinics of North America. Guest Editor of
    entire publication. 2019

  • Somenek M. Gender-Related Facial Surgical Goals. Facial Plast Surg. 34(5):474-479 2018

  • Somenek M. Deoxycholic Acid Injection as an Effective Treatment for Reduction of Posterior Upper Torso Brassiere Strap Adiposity. Plast Reconstr Surg 141(1) 2018

  • Tapan K. Bhattacharyya, PhD, Yvonne Hsia, BS, Michael Somenek, MD, James Regan Thomas, MD. Cosmeceutical effect on reversing dermal injury in the photoaged mouse. PRIME Journal. Ju- ly/August:28-35 2016.

  • Somenek M. Chin Implant Technique with Facelift. An analytical approach to facelifts and neck lifts in Expert Techniques in Facial Plastic Surgery.

  • Somenek M, J. Regan Thomas. Scar Revision and Dermabrasion in the Masters in Otolaryngology Surgical Atlas series. Publication in Process.

  • Somenek M, Dayan S, Arkins J. Restylane persisting in lower eyelids for 5 years. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology. 11:237-238 2014

  • Somenek M, J. Regan Thomas. Scar Revision Review. Archives of Facial Plastic Surgery. 14(3):162- 174, 2012 May/June.

  • Somenek M, Le Marissa, Walner D. Membranous Laryngitis in a Child. International Journal of Pedi- atric Otorhinolaryngology (2010), doi:10.1016/j.ijporl.2010.03.020

  • Somenek M, Shera NC, Petruzzelli GJ, Origitano TC. Esthesioneuroblastoma. eMedicine from WebMD. Updated October 30, 2009. Available at: http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/278047- overview.

  • Friedman M. Bliznikas D. Klein M. Duggal P. Somenek M. Joseph NJ. Comparison of the incidences of obstructive sleep apnea-hypopnea syndrome in African-Americans versus Caucasian-Americans. Otolaryngology – Head & Neck Surgery. 134(4):545-50, 2006 Apr.

  • Maxhimer, Justin B; Somenek, Michael; Rao, Geetha; Pesce, Catherine; Baldwin, David Jr.; Gattuso, Paolo; Schwartz, Melvin; Lewis, Edmund; Prinz, Richard; Xu, Xiulong; “Heparanase-1 Gene Expres- sion and Regulation by High Glucose in Renal Epithelial Cells: A Potential Role in the Pathogenesis of Proteinuria in Diabetic Patients. Diabetes 54: 2172-2178, July 2005.

  • SomenekM. Preventing complications with nonablative lasers. Tell All Tribune 2024

  • Somenek M. Addressing perioral lip lines with hyperdilute calcium hydroxylapatite. Cosmetic Bootcamp Aspen 2023

  • Somenek M. Effect of exosomes on skin healing post CO2 ablative laser therapy IMCAS 2023

  • Somenek M. Why your brand is your practice’s most important asset. AAFPRS 2022

  • Somenek M. Exosomes post CO2 ablative laser therapy. Vegas Cosmetic Surgery 2022

  • 2021: Presentations at 5CC Barcelona, IMCAS, The Aesthetic Meeting and AAFPRS Annual Meetings

  • Somenek M. Treating perioral rhytids: A comprehensive approach IMCAS 2020

  • Somenek M. Trusculptid LIVE demonstration. IMCAS Paris 2019

  • Somenek M. Nonsurgical skin tightening utilizing combination treatments. IMCAS Paris France 2019

  • Somenek M. The male aesthetic: Why it’s important. 5CC Shenzen China 2019

  • Somenek M. TrusculptiD technology: A Cutera Presentation 5CC Shenzen China 2019

  • Somenek M. Nonsurgical neck tightening using radio frequency technology. American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Annual Meeting. Nashville 2016.

  • Somenek M. Rhinoplasty: The Fundamentals. Grand Rounds Department of Plastic Surgery, Georgetown University 2015.

  • Somenek M. Otoplasty and Auricular Abnormalities. Grand Rounds Department of Plastic Surgery, Georgetown University 2014.

  • Somenek M. Injectable Fillers and Neuromodulators. Grand Rounds, University of Illinois at Chicago. 2012

  • Lerrick A, Somenek M. W-Shaped Modification of a Sternocleidomastoid Muscle Rotational Flap in the Repair of Parotidectomy Defects. Poster presentation at the American Academy of Otolaryngolo- gy-Head and Neck Surgery Annual Meeting, Boston, MA. Sept 2010.

  • Yao-Lee A, Jhaveri M, Somenek M, Petruzzelli G, Huckman M. Imaging Anterior Craniofacial Re- constructions. Presentation at the Radiological Society of North America November 2009

  • Somenek M, Petruzzelli G, Origitano T, Byrne R. Surgical Outcomes in Olfactory Neuroblastoma. Presented at the North American Skill Base Society, October 2009.

  • Somenek M, Petruzzelli G, Origitano T, Byrne R. Surgical Outcomes in Olfactory Neuroblastoma. Presented at the Chicago Laryngologic and Otologic Society Annual Lederer-Pierce Research Compe- tition, April 2008

  • Somenek M, Petruzzelli G, Origitano T, Byrne R. Surgical Outcomes in Olfactory Neuroblastoma. Poster presentation at the American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery Annual Meeting, Chicago, IL. Sept 2008.

  • Maxhimer JB, Somenek M, Lewis E, Baldwin D, Schwartz M, Prinz R, Xu X. Heparanase-1 gene ex- pression and regulation in kidney epithelial cells by high glucose: A potential role in the development of proteinuria in diabetic patients. Presentation at Rush Research Forum 2004, Chicago, IL 2004.

  • Maxhimer JB, Somenek M, Orlowski J, Baldwin D, Schwartz M, Gattuso P, Prinz RA, and Xu X. Di- abetic Nephropathy and Heparanase Expression and Gene Regulation. Association for Academic Sur- gery 37th Annual Meeting , Sacramento, CA, Nov 2003

  • Is Facial Fat Grafting the Answer to “Ozempic Face”?. Pop Sugar April 2024

  • The 9 Best Eye Creams for Sensitive Skin. Harpers Bazaar. April 2024

  • Are Face Exercises the Key to a Firmer, Lifted Face? Here’s What Experts Say. Well+Good. March 2024

  • The Best At-Home Chemical Peels, According to Skin Experts. New Beauty. March 2024

  • 13 Best Retinol Eye Creams to Fight Fine Lines and Wrinkles. Elle Magazine Feb 2024

  • A Moment of Xen iHeart Radio: Top Trending Surgical & Non Surgical Procedures & Techniques For 2024? ft. Dr. Somenek & Dr. Pittman

  • Doctors Are Seeing a Rise in Overfilled Faces—and Fixing Them Isn’t as Simple as It Seems. RealSelf.com 2022

  • Transformation Tuesday. Regular weekly segments 2023 ABC7 Washington DC. Nonsurgical Interventions.

  • Will Sculptra Change the Filler Game Again? Allure Magazine 2022

  • Dangerous Viral TikTok Beauty Hacks. Fox Chicago 2022

  • Is Wearing Makeup Every Day Bad For Your Skin? Glam Magazine 2022

  • Everything your skin care routine needs in your 20s, according to dermatologists. Today.com 2021

  • What Is Prejuvenation, And When’s A Good Time To Start? Huda Beauty 2021

  • The Super-Hydrating Food You Should Be Eating Daily To Restore A Youthful Glow. SheFinds.com 2021

  • Plastic surgery madness on Capitol Hill: Surgeons reveal their political client base has soared since the ‘Botox-friendly Trumps’ arrived – so the delayed recess has wreaked havoc. Daily Mail 2017c

  • American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Chair of Young Physicians Committee
    Member of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Steering Committee

  • American Academy of Otolaryngology

  • Alpha Omega Alpha

  • Phi Kappa Phi

  • American Medical Association

5.0

Patient Reviews of Dr. Somenek

  • “From the moment I stepped into the office I was met with wonderful, enthusiastic staff. Dr. Somenek was thoughtful, considerate and offered excellent professional opinions. After the surgery, everyone was extremely attentive! It went so well that I was back at work after two weeks and everyone thought I had been on a restful vacation. Even my grown sons thought that I looked refreshed. To me there is no better compliment to a facial plastic surgeon than to have everyone think you just look great, not operated on! Dr Somenek is a truly extraordinary person and doctor and he has put together a team that reflects his high standards of care. I would highly recommend this doctor and this practice to anyone who is looking for a talented, gentle Doctor who has put together a state of the art practice dedicated to his patients comfort and happiness”

     

    View Results
    Aubrey L.

  • “I have to admit.. I was terrified to have my procedure. Dr. Somenek and staff were absolutely incredible from the second I walked in the door. They put my mind at ease and I trusted everything he said and WOW.. I love my results! I had three procedures done at once in March of 23. I am now almost 5 months out and either myself or my husband comments on how wonderful and happy we are with Dr. Somenek’s work. Not only is he just amazing… I followed up with lymphatic drainage and facials and all of the staff are knowledgeable, professional and just stellar in every way! Cheers to you all!”

     

  • “Dr. Somenek and his staff have been fantastic. They’re all very warm and welcoming, and I’ve felt taken care of and informed every step of the way. The results have all been even better than I anticipated and also look completely natural. I look like myself, just the best version. He also did a fantastic job fixing the breathing issues with my nose and discomfort in my jaw. I would highly recommend this practice to my own family and friends.”

     

    View Results
    Aubrey L.

  • Facelift Surgery

    My facelift experience was life-changing. The procedure not only removed years from my appearance but also boosted my confidence tremendously.

    View Results
    Celeste B.

  • Facelift Surgery

    I couldn’t be happier with my facelift results! The surgeon took the time to understand my goals, and the outcome is so natural that my friends keep commenting on how refreshed I look.

    View Results
    Aubrey L.

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