Donald I. Altman, M.D., is a board-certified plastic surgeon with more than three decades of experience caring for patients in Orange County.
Dr. Altman is certified by both the American Board of Plastic Surgery and the American Board of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery. He established the first plastic surgery practice in Irvine, California, in 1986 and remained in private solo practice until 2019.
Throughout his career, Dr. Altman has been recognized as a leader in his field. He served on Allergan’s National Educational Board, teaching the clinical use of Botox to physicians across the country. His work and expertise have been featured on the Discovery Channel, Discovery Health Channel, and The Learning Channel.
In addition to his surgical career, Dr. Altman holds an M.B.A. and an M.L.S. in Pharmacologic and Medical Device Law and Compliance, reflecting his commitment to both medical practice and the broader ethical and regulatory aspects of patient care.
Today, Dr. Altman has returned to practice part-time, working in collaboration with trusted colleagues in plastic surgery and dermatology. His focus remains the same as it has always been: providing safe, compassionate, and personalized care while guiding patients with clarity, empathy, and realistic expectations.
More………..
Where I Am Seeing Patients
- Cosmetic Consultations & Surgery Support
I am seeing my former cosmetic patients at the office of Kyle Song, M.D. (South Coast Plastic Surgery, Irvine and Ladera Ranch. I provide consultations, assist with surgeries, and follow patients through their procedures and recovery. While I am not serving as the primary cosmetic surgeon at this time, I am available to those patients who wish to have me involved in their care. Since March, many of my former patients have undergone successful plastic surgery in this excellent practice. Call 949-701-4454 to schedule an appointment. https://www.socoplasticsurgery.com/ - I am also available to see patients at the office of my long-term colleague and friend, Michal Plechas, M.D. (Santa Ana). He and I have shared in the care of many mutual patients over the years. Call 714-953-7373 to schedule an appointment
- Skin Cancer & Reconstructive Work
I am also working alongside my longtime friend and colleague Jeff Klein, M.D., a dermatologist at HK Dermatology in San Juan Capistrano (949-248-1632). Jeff Klein and I first trained together at UCI in the 1980s, and it is a pleasure to collaborate again, focusing primarily on the treatment of skin cancer patients. - Hospital Affiliation
I have been reinstated to the medical staff at Hoag Hospital, Irvine and Newport Beach, effective May 1, 2025, allowing me to care for patients in a hospital setting when needed and continue working with colleagues I have known for many years.
My Approach
Whether consulting, assisting, or guiding patients through their recovery, my goal remains unchanged: to provide safe and compassionate care while setting realistic expectations and supporting each patient throughout the healing process.
Although my initial plan was to care only for established patients, I am finding that the friends and families of long-time patients remain the heart of a healthy practice. Reconnecting with all of you has been a deeply rewarding experience.
Looking Ahead
I will continue to share updates here as my practice evolves. For those interested in scheduling a consultation, please reach out through the offices of Dr. Song, Dr. Plechas, or Dr. Klein. I would recommend an informal discussion with me before scheduling. You may contact me directly at 949-727-3999 or donaldaltmanmd@gmail.com.
Thank you for welcoming me back into your lives and care. It is an honor to once again serve as your physician.