Karen M. Horton, MD
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Karen M. Horton, MD
Dr. Horton is experienced in a range of cosmetic and reconstructive surgeries, including breast augmentation, breast reduction, breast lift, prepectoral and microsurgical breast reconstruction, and mommy makeovers with an emphasis on patient safety and a focus on beautiful results that enhance natural body contours.

The visible effects of gravity, time, and other factors can result in a prematurely aged and tired-looking appearance. San Fransisco Board Certified Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Horton is highly skilled in advanced techniques for facelift, brow lift, neck lift, and eye lift surgery to restore a youthful appearance.
Services
The practice of Dr. Karen Horton is located in the prestigious Pacific Heights district of the San Francisco Bay Area. Our practice offers a broad spectrum of cosmetic surgery and reconstructive surgery of the breasts, the body and the face. Dr. Horton is a classically educated Plastic Surgeon who received her training at an esteemed Residency program and pursued additional Fellowship training in Reconstructive Microsurgery.
Mary Pasache is our invaluable Patient Coordinator, having been with the practice since 1994. Mary is extremely experienced, knowledgeable and conversant about all facets of our practice, both surgical and non-surgical. Mary will schedule your consultation with Dr. Horton or Emily Sespaniak, NP, and will answer your initial questions, getting to know you a little over the phone.
In advance of your consultation, virtual or in-person, you have the option to send us photos of the area(s) you would like to discuss. Especially for out-of-town patients, photographs often allow an initial assessment and recommendations for you via email. Please also have a solid background. Use of the internet or email is for your convenience only, and by using them, you assume the risk of unauthorized use.
Dr. Karen Horton is Internationally Board Certified in Plastic Surgery by both the American Board of Plastic Surgery and the Royal College of Surgeons of Canada, specializing in cosmetic and reconstructive surgery for women. Since 2006, Dr. Horton's boutique Pacific Heights San Francisco Plastic Surgery private practice focuses on providing personalized care with meticulous attention to detail in a warm, welcoming and unintimidating environment.
Emily Sespaniak, MSN, NP-C is a Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner that brings to the practice her experience in the skilled administration of non-surgical cosmetic procedures, including a vast assortment of cosmetic injectables and dermal fillers, non-ablative laser treatments, medical-grade skin care, and more.
Reviews (24)
Andrea S.
Andrea S.
Dec 17, 2021
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I recently had a breast reduction/lift with Dr. Horton. To say that she is calming, low-key, compassionate and does excellent work is an understatement. With all the experience she has with Breast Reconstruction Surgery and the amazing work she does for her cancer patients I knew that putting my body into her hands was a fabulous decision and I was right! 4 weeks post-op and I am feeling good, gaining my strength and all looks fabulous. Her staff is great. Sad to hear that Mari her nurse is retiring. I am sure she will be missed. She is so comforting and open. I HIGHLY recommend anyone looking
Cali Girl
Cali Girl
Dec 12, 2021
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I chose Dr Horton for my Mommy Makeover because she had all the accolades that told me she absolutely knew what she was doing and was great at her job. However, what really sold me was who she is. She made me feel very comfortable and like she really cared. My results are amazing I am completly happy with my decision. Doc Horton, was with me every step of the way. My post care was just as amazing.
Peggy A.
Peggy A.
Nov 25, 2021
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After years of botched surgeries, I've been blessed to find Dr. Karen Horton. Dr. Horton is a skilled surgeon. Compassionate, perfectionist and committed to the finish line cheering and supporting you during your entire journey. Her staff is kind, organized, respectful and extremely supportive to make sure you have all the tools you need for proactive and post surgery success. Look no further, connect with her patients, listen to their stories, they will aviate do your homework to prepare. Her hands perform miracles.
Tanzi B.
Tanzi B.
Nov 24, 2021
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I am so honored to have found Dr. Horton. She has literally restored my sense of self esteem and femininity. Previously, I worked with another surgeon to remove implants and perform a breast lift. Unfortunately, that was the beginning of a 3 year downward spiral that ended in a mastectomy of my right breast and major deformity .. it was so awful. I was devastated. I had to wear a prosthetic. If you know anything about prosthetics.. they don't necessarily stay in place. I was so embarrassed to be undressed in front of my husband. I felt less than a woman. I actually gave up. It was my husband
Jenna B.
Jenna B.
Nov 24, 2021
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5 stars really can't even capture how lovely Dr. Horton & her entire team are. I never thought I'd go through with my surgery--I had awful experiences with other doctors and felt discouraged, but I tried one last time with Dr. Horton. Thank god!!! From the first time I spoke to her staff on the phone to the day I walked in and met them for the first time, I felt an overwhelming sense of comfort! They explained everything so patiently and were constantly available for any little question or concern that came up. Oh, and dr Horton is a miracle worker!! I couldn't be happier with
Dr. Jennifer Mathis
Dr. Jennifer Mathis
Nov 16, 2021
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Dr. Karen Horton is amazing. She was my reconstructive plastic surgeon and worked in conjunction with my breast surgeon during my mastectomy. I feel whole again! It was such a blessing to wake up from surgery with a beautiful breast rather than an empty space. I was petrified of being disfigured and feeling lopsided when I learned about my cancer and that I would have to lose my right breast. Dr. Horton helped me feel beautiful and complete! I highly recommend her, she is well worth the wait!!!!!
Hayley R.
Hayley R.
Nov 10, 2021
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Dr. Karen Horton is a miracle worker! She knows what she is doing! I had an umbilicoplasty and breast implants done back in May and I am beyond happy with my results! She is there for you when you need her and is such a warm caring soul. She made me feel so comfortable and safe and anytime I needed to reach out during healing, she was able to answer my questions and give me helpful advice i needed quickly. She has truly helped me feel happy with my appearance and confidence. Everyone at the office is Incredible and so sweet. Also I cannot forget Nurse Mary, she is amazing, such a sweet person!
Shelly S.
Shelly S.
Oct 26, 2021
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I had an abdominoplasty, breast lift, and liposuction with Dr. Horton and cannot sing her praises highly enough. I had severe ab separation after two pregnancies and my body felt like a stranger to me. I couldn't use my core for ANYTHING, and I was uncomfortable in my own skin. Throughout working with Dr. Horton I felt safe, cared for, and seen as a human. She calmed my nerves before and after surgery, fielded endless texts very quickly (and while she was on vacation), and I cannot believe how incredible my results are. I went from a size 8 to a size 4 (currently 3 months post op)- I truly
Denise Sweeney
Denise Sweeney
Sep 24, 2021
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Review by a physician: I had a wonderful experience with Dr Horton and her staff. I had a mastectomy and reconstruction due to breast cancer. I wish I had known about Dr Horton then! My reconstruction was terribly done, disfiguring and uncomfortable. I was getting numbness in my fingers. None of the plastic surgeons in my area felt competent to repair it, so I lived with it for far too long.
I found Dr Horton, and she “gets it.” I actually cried at my first visit because she told me what was wrong without me even having to tell her. She understands the aesthetics and the function. Not only
Sonae Delahanty
Sonae Delahanty
Aug 21, 2021
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I had liposuction of the abdomen with Dr. Horton, this is my very first surgery, so I was quite nervous! Dr. Horton helped ease my anxiety, made me feel comfortable, and was very transparent with me. Her whole Team was incredible, from the front desk [Niloo] - to Mary & the people at the Hayes surgery center. Extremely knowledgeable, friendly, and accommodating. Welcomed all questions, at various hours [She provides you with her number to text]. Beyond that, I am two weeks post OP and very happy with my results so far! I Still have some time until I am fully recovered, but am happy, as she walked
Elizabeth M.
Elizabeth M.
Jun 09, 2021
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I had my consultation with Dr. Horton a couple of weeks ago in San Francisco. I was so impressed with her entire approach detailing the process of each procedure. Not only is she incredibly talented (hello before and afters!) but Dr. Horton is thoughtful, honest and relatable. I left my appointment raving about her to my husband.

Dr. Horton is fully transparent while being kind and cautious about the procedures she does.

She has impeccable bedside manner and is truly beautiful inside and out.

I highly recommend Dr. Horton for any of your surgical procedures.
Morgan H.
Morgan H.
May 27, 2021
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This review is LONG overdue! Dr. Horton is the absolute BEST! She does everything she can to make sure her patients are 100% happy with their results, going so far as to donate her time to them and make herself available to them via text 24/7.

From initially meeting her, I knew she was the surgeon for me. She's warm, welcoming, informative, and professional. Until COVID, all of my appointments began and ended with hugs! She's always made me feel very comfortable and relaxed, even before surgery.

I've really enjoyed working with everyone in the office. Nurse Mari and Mary, the Office
Alia T.
Alia T.
Apr 28, 2021
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I will preface by saying 5 stars isn't enough for Dr. Horton, I wish there was a 10 or 15 star rating system! I honestly do not know where to even start. I found Dr. Horton a few years ago (who was incredibly decorated and highly reviewed) after doing weeks and weeks of research for a surgeon who could help me with my tuberous breasts. I have donned them ever since puberty hit and was tired of not feeling like my whole, confident self. My first consultation with Dr. H was in 2017; she went over the entire procedure with me and was incredibly open and transparent. 2017 was a whirlwind of a
Kendra R.
Kendra R.
Apr 27, 2021
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This review is long, but I don't want to leave anything out (and forgive my run on sentences!!):

I had been living with breast implants for 18 years that were way too large for my frame and had developed complications that lead to severe asymmetry. I finally decided to look for a new surgeon who could perform an implant revision surgery. My original surgery was done in Southern California, and now that I live in the Bay Area, I wanted to find a local surgeon. I am done having kids, and things had "shifted" over the years, so it was definitely time! I consulted with 5 different
Eva Nebeling
Eva Nebeling
Apr 18, 2021
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If I could give Dr. Karen Horton 100 stars I would. I recently got liposuction to the neck and wasn't sure what to expect. The communication her team has with their patients is amazing, and the kindness in the office is so enlightening. When I was getting the procedure done, the nurse held my hand and calmed me down so much. Her and the Doctor were nothing but kind, patient, and understanding when it came to me getting nervous or asking questions. I am very nervous about needles and the idea of surgery definitely makes me anxious, but with Dr. Horton, and her nurse, my stress immediately left the
Rebecca Henley
Rebecca Henley
Apr 05, 2021
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If I could give Dr. Horton 10 stars I would!! I went to see her after a poor result with another surgeon. Dr. Horton made me instantly comfortable and at ease. This was important as my previous results were so terrible. Immediately after surgery I knew I would look better and almost one year later I am beyond thrilled with how I look. Even more importantly, her care post-surgery and responsiveness is amazing and so appreciated!!
Dove P.
Dove P.
Apr 02, 2021
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After having an MRI there is doubt Dr Karen Horton lies
1. Would get all silicone out of my breast
2. Lied that I had no muscle to put implant under
3.used Betadine which I told her and had on her report and hospital that I am highly allergic too
4 I lost my nipple because of Dr Horton!
5 . Put in too large of implant
6. Told her for 6 mos in PAIN and text to me from Dr Horton said to meditate
Must now have reduction on both breasts, breast lift both sides, release tendon under arm she cut over
Remove rest of silicone she said she got (tells you that they are tiny fibrous tissue but MRI states
Sonia M.
Sonia M.
Mar 26, 2021
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Dr. Horton and her staff are incredible. I knew at our first meeting that I had found the right doctor. My Abdominoplasty Surgery was about a month ago and went extremely well. It was an excellent experience. Dr. Horton is one of the most compassionate, caring and interesting people I have met in recent years. I am so truly thankful for the work Dr. Horton was able to do for me. She is a talented surgeon that I would highly recommend.
Liz M.
Liz M.
Feb 06, 2021
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I've been a patient of Dr Horton and Emily for years! I recently underwent a breast reduction with Dr.
Horton and as I expected, she was attentive, responsive and all around comforting at times when I was super nervous about everything!
Not to mention, She is a highly skilled surgeon and I truly admire her work and her leadership in the medical field
She is one powerful, smart woman and I admire her greatly
My girlfriends are I are total fan girls! Lol
Thanks, Dr Horton!!!
Linda C.
Linda C.
Jan 12, 2021
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I saw Dr. Horton for liposuction in the fall of 2020 and am totally thrilled with the results. Appointments, communications, the procedure were all smooth and efficient. My body has transformed and the stubborn areas are gone.

It's interesting to note that in the early 2000's I had the same procedure with another surgeon and didn't have this positive of an experience. Back then I was left numb in severals areas for well over a year and I'd describe my results as "minor contouring". With Dr Horton, I never experienced any lingering skin numbness, my abdominal muscles
Angela R.
Angela R.
Jan 10, 2021
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Dr. Horton is AMAZING!!

I can make this a lengthy review, but I will try to keep it short:

About Me: In the early part of 2019, I was referred to Dr. Horton by a co-worker. It was the best referral, I have ever received. In 1991, I underwent a breast reduction. After 3 children, age (53), and physical/medical reasons, I was in desperate need of another breast reduction and lift. In addition, I had a large benign lipoma in my right under arm and my scars were horrible.

First Meeting: Although Dr. Horton knew what I needed, she LISTENED. She answered all my questions and was patient in doing
Beth K.
Beth K.
Dec 04, 2020
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After having my tissue expanders exchanged for silicone, I began to experience debilitating chronic inflammation similar to fibromyalgia. It kept my from my bike and other things I loved to do.

I saw many internists, acupuncturists and other doctors who couldn't figure out the source. Someone finally mentioned to me that implants can cause these reactions. I was mortified to think I had spent nearly two years of my life feeling ill without having the proper disclosure from my doctor that some women don't take well to silicone and/or saline implants. When I called Dr. Horton, she didn
Susan S.
Susan S.
Nov 28, 2020
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I can not recommend dr. Horton. She botched my first augmentation and then botched the second and additionally botched my mastoplexy. I'm scared and still uneven. I was forced to go to another surgeon to do another mastoplexy to make things even. Dr. Mohebali is the best in Marin County....by far!
Elizabeth C.
Elizabeth C.
Oct 31, 2020
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I went to see Dr Horton for a breast reduction consultation. I asked Dr Horton up front not to say anything negative about my body as I hadn't decided on surgery yet. During the examination, she provided unsolicited advice on a scar on my stomach, to say I could have liposuction to flatten it out and that it was pretty stretched out. Having just had a baby, I was already aware of that.

She was also 30 minutes late and then left for 15 mins part way through to see another patient, so I was pretty stressed as I had a newborn at home who I needed to get back for.

After the consultation, I