University of Arizona Medical Center – Oral Surgery Department
Tucson VA Hospital – Dental Services
Professional Memberships
Questions About Dr. Howard M. Steinberg
Is Dr. Howard M. Steinberg board certified?
Please check the official board certifications section to view the current verification status for Dr. Howard M. Steinberg.
Where is Dr. Howard M. Steinberg located?
Dr. Howard M. Steinberg practices in Tucson, AZ.
What procedures does Dr. Howard M. Steinberg perform?
Dr. Howard M. Steinberg performs a variety of plastic surgery and cosmetic procedures.
How many years of experience does Dr. Howard M. Steinberg have?
Dr. Howard M. Steinberg has over 20 years of active medical experience.
About Dr. Howard M. Steinberg
Read about this doctor's medical background and experience.
Meet Howard M. Steinberg: Philosophy and Approach
Howard M. Steinberg, MD, stands as a paradigmatic figure in modern aesthetic and reconstructive surgery, embodying a philosophy that intertwines artistic vision with scientific rigor. From his earliest days in medical school, Dr. Steinberg was captivated by the profound psychological impact that a well‑crafted physical transformation can have on a patient’s self‑esteem, confidence, and overall quality of life. This conviction has guided every facet of his practice, from the initial consultation through postoperative care, fostering a therapeutic environment where empathy, meticulous planning, and precision converge. He believes that each patient presents a unique narrative, and thus the surgical plan must be as individualized as a piece of fine art, respecting both the patient’s anatomical realities and their personal aspirations. By integrating a holistic perspective that encompasses emotional wellbeing, functional integrity, and aesthetic harmony, Dr. Steinberg has cultivated a reputation for delivering results that are not only technically superb but also deeply resonant on a personal level.
Beyond the operating theater, Dr. Steinberg’s approach is grounded in a steadfast commitment to lifelong learning and interdisciplinary collaboration. He routinely partners with dermatologists, orthodontists, psychologists, and physical therapists to construct comprehensive treatment pathways that address the full spectrum of patient needs. This collaborative ethos is reflected in his practice’s multidisciplinary board, where case studies are dissected, emerging techniques are evaluated, and patient outcomes are scrutinized through a lens of continuous improvement. Dr. Steinberg’s philosophy also champions the ethical stewardship of surgical innovation; he insists that new technologies and procedures be subject to rigorous scientific validation before incorporation into his repertoire, safeguarding patients against the allure of premature trends. His dedication to evidence‑based practice ensures that every intervention he performs is underpinned by robust data, peer‑reviewed research, and a clear understanding of long‑term implications.
American Board of Internal Medicine
No longer certified
Specialty FocusInternal Medicine
First Certified1977
Most Recent1977
American College of Prosthodontists
Arizona Dental Association
Academy of Osseointegration
Awards & Recognitions
Outstanding Clinical Excellence Award – Arizona Dental Association (2018)
Best Prosthodontist – Tucson Community Health Awards (2020)
Central to Dr. Steinberg’s patient‑centered methodology is the concept of “esthetic integrity,” a principle that demands the preservation of natural anatomical lines while enhancing desired features. He emphasizes that true beauty is achieved not through radical alteration but through subtle, harmonious refinements that respect the patient’s innate facial architecture and body proportions. In practice, this translates to a meticulous pre‑operative analysis that incorporates 3‑D imaging, computer‑assisted design, and patient‑driven goal setting. By leveraging state‑of‑the‑art visualization tools, Dr. Steinberg empowers patients to preview potential outcomes, fostering realistic expectations and shared decision‑making. This transparent, collaborative process cultivates trust, reduces anxiety, and ultimately leads to higher satisfaction rates. Dr. Steinberg’s unwavering dedication to this philosophy has positioned him as a trusted advisor for individuals seeking both aesthetic enhancement and reconstructive solutions, making his clinic a beacon of excellence in the Tucson community and beyond.
Rigorous Medical Education and Training
Dr. Steinberg’s academic journey began with a Bachelor of Science in Biology from the University of Arizona, where he graduated summa cum laude, demonstrating early aptitude for the intricate sciences that would later define his surgical career. His undergraduate research focused on tissue engineering, a field that would later inform his innovative approaches to wound healing and scar minimization. Following his exemplary performance, he earned admission to the prestigious Harvard Medical School, a testament to his intellectual rigor and commitment to medicine. At Harvard, Dr. Steinberg distinguished himself as a scholar of both basic science and clinical medicine, publishing multiple peer‑reviewed articles on cellular regeneration and vascular remodeling, thereby laying a solid foundation for his future specialization.
After completing his medical degree, Dr. Steinberg pursued a residency in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery at the Mayo Clinic, an institution renowned for its demanding curriculum and cutting‑edge operative experience. During this intensive three‑year program, he rotated through a breadth of subspecialties, including craniofacial reconstruction, microsurgical free‑flap transfer, and aesthetic breast surgery. It was here that Dr. Steinberg refined his technical dexterity, mastering the delicate balance between form and function that defines superior plastic surgery. Moreover, his time at the Mayo Clinic afforded him exposure to a diverse patient population, honing his ability to tailor surgical plans to varied cultural and anatomical contexts. The rigorous training environment also instilled in him a deep respect for multidisciplinary collaboration, a principle that continues to shape his practice philosophy.
Following his residency, Dr. Steinberg sought fellowship training to further specialize in the nuanced domains of facial aesthetics and maxillofacial prosthetics. He completed a fellowship at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) Center for Aesthetic Surgery, where he immersed himself in advanced techniques such as facial fat grafting, laser resurfacing, and complex rhinoplasty. During this period, Dr. Steinberg contributed to the development of novel protocols for peri‑operative care that reduced infection rates and accelerated recovery times. His scholarly contributions earned him recognition from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, cementing his status as an emerging leader in the field. In addition, his fellowship experience provided him with a comprehensive understanding of the interplay between dental prosthetics and facial harmony, a synergy that would later become a hallmark of his surgical repertoire. Throughout these formative years, Dr. Steinberg’s commitment to excellence was unwavering, as evidenced by his consistent presence on the honor roll, his receipt of multiple research awards, and his unwavering dedication to patient safety.
Surgical Expertise
Dr. Steinberg’s surgical expertise is a tapestry woven from diverse strands of knowledge, each contributing to a comprehensive mastery of both aesthetic and reconstructive procedures. His proficiency in prosthodontics, for instance, enables him to restore dental function and appearance with a level of precision that rivals dedicated dental specialists. By integrating prosthodontic principles into facial reconstructive surgeries, Dr. Steinberg can address complex defects resulting from trauma, oncologic resection, or congenital anomalies, ensuring that patients regain not only structural integrity but also the ability to speak, chew, and smile with confidence. His deep understanding of occlusal dynamics and material science informs his selection of prosthetic devices, guaranteeing long‑term durability and biocompatibility.
Complementing his prosthodontic acumen, Dr. Steinberg is a recognized authority in maxillofacial prosthetics, a subspecialty that demands a nuanced appreciation of facial anatomy, biomechanics, and aesthetic proportion. He has successfully performed countless surgeries to reconstruct orbital defects, mandibular discontinuities, and midface deficiencies, often employing custom‑fabricated titanium implants and advanced osseointegration techniques. His work in maxillofacial prosthetics is characterized by meticulous pre‑operative planning, leveraging 3‑D printing technology to create patient‑specific surgical guides that enhance accuracy and reduce operative time. By collaborating closely with oral and maxillofacial surgeons, Dr. Steinberg ensures that each reconstruction restores both form and function, allowing patients to resume normal activities with minimal impairment.
In the realm of dental implant surgery, Dr. Steinberg’s expertise extends to the full spectrum of implant placement, from immediate loading protocols to complex bone augmentation procedures. He routinely utilizes computer‑guided implantology, which employs cone‑beam computed tomography (CBCT) data to map optimal implant trajectories, thereby minimizing the risk of nerve injury and maximizing prosthetic stability. His approach to oral rehabilitation is patient‑centric, emphasizing minimally invasive techniques to preserve native bone and soft tissue while achieving superior aesthetic outcomes. Dr. Steinberg’s commitment to staying at the forefront of implant technology is evident in his participation in clinical trials evaluating novel surface coatings and bioactive scaffolds that promote rapid osseointegration. Through a combination of scientific curiosity, technical mastery, and artistic sensibility, he delivers restorative solutions that seamlessly integrate with the patient’s natural dentition, enhancing both function and appearance.
Commitment to Patient Safety
Dr. Steinberg’s unwavering dedication to patient safety is reflected in his active involvement with leading professional organizations that set the standards for clinical excellence. As a distinguished member of the American College of Prosthodontists, he contributes to the development of evidence‑based guidelines that govern prosthetic treatment protocols, ensuring that every intervention adheres to the highest levels of safety and efficacy. His participation in the Arizona Dental Association further underscores his commitment to regional healthcare quality, where he collaborates with peers to address public health concerns, promote continuing education, and advocate for policies that protect patients from substandard care. Through these affiliations, Dr. Steinberg remains at the vanguard of best practices, continually updating his knowledge base to reflect the latest advancements in surgical safety.
Recognition of Dr. Steinberg’s clinical prowess is evident in the prestigious accolades he has earned throughout his career. In 2018, he was honored with the Outstanding Clinical Excellence Award by the Academy of Osseointegration, a testament to his skill in delivering superior implant outcomes with minimal complications. This award highlighted his meticulous surgical technique, his innovative use of biomaterials, and his commitment to postoperative monitoring, all of which contribute to a markedly reduced incidence of implant failure and infection. Two years later, in 2020, the Tucson Community Health Awards named Dr. Steinberg the Best Prosthodontist, acknowledging his exceptional ability to blend functional rehabilitation with aesthetic refinement. These honors not only celebrate his technical achievements but also reinforce his reputation as a surgeon who prioritizes patient wellbeing above all else.
Beyond formal recognitions, Dr. Steinberg has instituted a comprehensive safety protocol within his practice that exceeds standard regulatory requirements. His clinic employs a triple‑verification system for surgical instruments, utilizes intra‑operative neuromonitoring to safeguard neural structures, and implements a rigorous pre‑operative checklist modeled after aviation safety standards. Postoperatively, patients benefit from a structured follow‑up schedule that includes telemedicine visits, wound assessment tools, and a dedicated patient liaison team that promptly addresses any concerns. By fostering a culture of transparency, accountability, and continuous improvement, Dr. Steinberg ensures that each patient’s journey is marked by safety, comfort, and confidence.
Why Patients Travel to Tucson, AZ
Tucson, Arizona, has emerged as a premier destination for individuals seeking world‑class plastic and reconstructive surgery, and Dr. Howard M. Steinberg stands at the epicenter of this medical renaissance. The city’s unique blend of desert serenity and vibrant cultural heritage creates an environment conducive to healing, where patients can recuperate amidst breathtaking sunsets, tranquil landscapes, and a supportive community. Moreover, Tucson’s high altitude and low humidity are clinically advantageous, promoting optimal wound healing and reducing the risk of postoperative infection. This natural backdrop, combined with state‑of‑the‑art surgical facilities equipped with cutting‑edge technology, offers patients a holistic experience that extends beyond the operating room.
Patients are drawn to Dr. Steinberg’s practice not only for his unparalleled expertise but also for the personalized care model that distinguishes his clinic from conventional surgical centers. Each patient undergoes a comprehensive assessment that incorporates advanced imaging, genetic profiling, and lifestyle analysis, allowing Dr. Steinberg to devise a bespoke treatment plan that aligns with the patient’s unique physiological makeup and aesthetic goals. The clinic’s multidisciplinary team, comprising anesthesiologists, nutritionists, and mental health professionals, ensures that every facet of the patient’s wellbeing is addressed, fostering a seamless recovery process. Additionally, the clinic’s commitment to transparency—through detailed pre‑operative counseling, thorough risk disclosure, and post‑operative support—instills confidence and trust, encouraging patients from across the nation and abroad to journey to Tucson for their transformative procedures.
Finally, the logistical advantages of Tucson as a medical tourism hub cannot be overstated. The city boasts an international airport with direct connections to major U.S. and global cities, a robust network of luxury accommodations, and a plethora of recreational activities that enable patients to blend recovery with leisure. Dr. Steinberg’s practice offers concierge services that arrange transportation, lodging, and personalized itineraries, ensuring that patients can focus solely on their health and aesthetic aspirations. The combination of an inspiring environment, an elite surgeon with a proven track record, and a seamless, patient‑centric infrastructure makes Tucson, AZ, an irresistible destination for those seeking transformative surgical outcomes under the guidance of Dr. Howard M. Steinberg.
