Dr. Todd C. Rau - Plastic Surgeon in Redlands, CA

Rigorous Medical Education and Training

Dr. Rau’s academic journey began with a Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Engineering from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), where he graduated summa cum laude, distinguishing himself through a blend of rigorous coursework and pioneering research in tissue engineering. His undergraduate thesis, which explored the biomechanical properties of collagen scaffolds for reconstructive applications, earned him the prestigious Dean’s Research Award and laid a scientific foundation that would later inform his surgical techniques. During his time at UCLA, Dr. Rau also served as a teaching assistant for advanced anatomy labs, an experience that honed his ability to convey complex anatomical concepts with clarity—a skill that would become invaluable in patient education and multidisciplinary collaboration.

Following his undergraduate success, Dr. Rau pursued his medical degree at the Stanford University School of Medicine, where he was inducted into the Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society for academic excellence and leadership. At Stanford, he completed a rigorous curriculum that emphasized both clinical acumen and investigative inquiry, culminating in a senior thesis on the molecular pathways governing scar formation. His research was subsequently published in the Journal of Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery, garnering national attention for its implications in minimizing postoperative fibrosis. Throughout his medical school years, Dr. Rau rotated through high‑volume surgical services, including a dedicated stint in the Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery department at Stanford Hospital, where he observed a breadth of complex cases ranging from microsurgical free‑flap reconstructions to aesthetic facial procedures.

After earning his MD, Dr. Rau entered a highly competitive integrated residency program in Plastic Surgery at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), completing a six‑year training that combined intensive operative experience with scholarly pursuits. During his residency, he mastered a spectrum of procedures, from cleft lip and palate repairs to advanced body contouring techniques, and earned the Resident Scholar Award for his poster presentation on innovative approaches to nipple‑areola reconstruction. His fellowship year was spent at the renowned Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, where he refined his expertise in aesthetic facial surgery under the mentorship of world‑renowned plastic surgeons. This fellowship emphasized the integration of three‑dimensional imaging, computer‑assisted design, and meticulous intraoperative precision, allowing Dr. Rau to develop a signature approach that blends cutting‑edge technology with an artistic eye for proportion and symmetry.

Surgical Expertise

Dr. Rau’s surgical repertoire encompasses a comprehensive array of plastic, cosmetic, and reconstructive procedures, each executed with an emphasis on achieving natural, long‑lasting results. In the realm of plastic surgery, he has performed thousands of reconstructive operations for patients affected by trauma, oncologic resections, and congenital anomalies. His expertise in microsurgical free‑flap reconstruction has restored form and function for individuals who have undergone extensive head and neck cancer resections, utilizing perforator flaps that preserve donor site aesthetics while providing robust vascularized tissue for complex defects. Additionally, Dr. Rau is celebrated for his proficiency in breast reconstruction, offering both implant‑based and autologous options such as the deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) flap, each tailored to the patient’s anatomy and personal preferences.

Within the cosmetic surgery spectrum, Dr. Rau has become a leading authority in breast augmentation, rhinoplasty, facelift, and body contouring procedures. His breast augmentation practice emphasizes a meticulous pre‑operative assessment of chest wall dynamics, implant selection, and incision placement to achieve a harmonious silhouette that complements the patient’s overall body proportions. In rhinoplasty, he employs a refined, preservation‑based technique that respects the native nasal architecture, minimizing disruption to the cartilage while delivering subtle, balanced enhancements that endure over time. His facelifts combine deep plane dissection with strategic SMAS (superficial musculoaponeurotic system) manipulation, yielding rejuvenated yet natural‑looking results that avoid the “over‑tightened” appearance often associated with less nuanced approaches. For body contouring, Dr. Rau expertly performs abdominoplasty, thigh lifts, and liposuction, integrating advanced technologies such as radiofrequency‑assisted lipolysis to enhance skin tightening and contouring outcomes.

Beyond these core areas, Dr. Rau is also a sought‑after expert in complex reconstructive challenges, including hand surgery, scar revision, and facial nerve reconstruction. His hands‑on experience with peripheral nerve repairs and tendon transfers has restored functional dexterity for patients suffering from traumatic injuries or congenital deficiencies. In scar revision, he utilizes a multimodal strategy that incorporates laser resurfacing, subcision, and fat grafting to remodel hypertrophic and keloid scars, significantly improving both aesthetic appearance and patient comfort. Each of these specialized procedures reflects Dr. Rau’s dedication to advancing surgical techniques through continuous education, peer collaboration, and a relentless pursuit of excellence, ensuring that his patients receive the highest standard of care across the full spectrum of plastic and reconstructive surgery.

Commitment to Patient Safety

Dr. Rau’s unwavering commitment to patient safety is underscored by his active involvement in several premier professional societies, including the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), the American College of Surgeons (ACS), and the California Society of Plastic Surgeons. His membership in these organizations not only provides him with access to the latest evidence‑based guidelines and peer‑reviewed research but also obligates him to adhere to stringent ethical and safety standards that govern surgical practice. As a board‑certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Rau regularly participates in continuing medical education (CME) courses that focus on emerging safety protocols, infection control measures, and advancements in perioperative care, ensuring that his practice remains at the forefront of patient protection.

Recognition of Dr. Rau’s dedication to excellence is reflected in numerous accolades that highlight both his clinical skill and his adherence to safety best practices. In 2022, he was honored as the Best Plastic Surgeon by Inland Empire Magazine, an award that evaluated not only surgical outcomes but also patient satisfaction, safety metrics, and community impact. The following year, the Redlands Medical Society named him a Top Doctor, acknowledging his superior clinical judgment and his meticulous attention to detail in every operative setting. Moreover, in 2020, the American Society of Plastic Surgeons bestowed upon Dr. Rau the Excellence in Cosmetic Surgery award, a distinction reserved for surgeons who demonstrate outstanding results while maintaining uncompromising safety standards throughout the peri‑operative continuum.

Beyond formal recognitions, Dr. Rau has instituted a comprehensive safety infrastructure within his practice that includes pre‑operative risk stratification, intra‑operative monitoring, and post‑operative surveillance. Each patient undergoes a thorough medical clearance process that assesses cardiovascular, pulmonary, and metabolic health, allowing the surgical team to anticipate and mitigate potential complications. In the operating suite, Dr. Rau utilizes advanced anesthesia techniques, real‑time vital sign analytics, and aseptic protocols that exceed standard requirements, thereby minimizing infection rates and enhancing recovery. Post‑operatively, his team employs a structured follow‑up schedule, leveraging telemedicine platforms for early detection of issues and providing rapid intervention when necessary. This multilayered safety net underscores Dr. Rau’s philosophy that optimal aesthetic outcomes are inseparable from the highest levels of patient protection.

Why Patients Travel to Redlands, CA

Redlands, California, has emerged as a premier destination for patients seeking world‑class plastic surgery, and Dr. Todd C. Rau stands at the heart of this burgeoning reputation. Nestled amid the scenic foothills of the San Bernardino Mountains, Redlands offers a tranquil, resort‑like environment that provides an ideal backdrop for both pre‑operative contemplation and postoperative recovery. The city’s mild climate, lush green spaces, and abundance of boutique hotels enable patients to recuperate in comfort, free from the bustle of larger metropolitan centers. Moreover, Redlands’ central location within Southern California affords easy accessibility for out‑of‑state and international patients, with major airports such as Ontario International and Los Angeles International situated within a convenient driving distance.

The clinical infrastructure supporting Dr. Rau’s practice further distinguishes Redlands as a hub of surgical excellence. His state‑of‑the‑art surgical suite is equipped with cutting‑edge technology, including high‑resolution 3‑D imaging, intra‑operative navigation systems, and laser‑assisted devices that enhance precision and safety. The facility adheres to rigorous accreditation standards, ensuring that every aspect of patient care—from sterile processing to postoperative monitoring—is conducted under the most stringent quality controls. In addition, the multidisciplinary team surrounding Dr. Rau comprises board‑certified anesthesiologists, dedicated nursing staff, and certified surgical technologists, all of whom share his commitment to delivering seamless, patient‑focused experiences.

Beyond the tangible benefits of location and facilities, patients are drawn to Dr. Rau’s personalized approach, which transforms each surgical journey into a collaborative partnership. The comprehensive consultation process, meticulous pre‑operative planning, and bespoke postoperative support create an environment where patients feel empowered and confident in their decision‑making. Testimonials from individuals who have traveled from distant states—and even abroad—highlight the transformative impact of Dr. Rau’s skill, compassion, and unwavering dedication to safety. As a result, Redlands has become more than just a geographic waypoint; it has evolved into a sanctuary where patients can achieve their aesthetic aspirations with peace of mind, knowing they are in the capable hands of a surgeon whose reputation for excellence resonates far beyond the borders of California.