Meet Dr. Christa Clark
Award-winning plastic surgeon in Granite Bay
Attention to detail combined with an extensive knowledge of plastic surgery—this sets apart Dr. Christa Clark as a plastic surgeon in Sacramento. As a female plastic surgeon, she connects with her patients on a deep level. She is guided by a personal and professional commitment to provide surgical solutions that will leave her patients looking and feeling their best.
Dr. Clark will take the time to get to know you and understand your lifestyle and your needs. She is committed to helping you achieve results you’ll love. Request a consultation online or call our office at(916) 242-2662 for more information about Dr. Clark and the procedures she offers.
Education
Dr. Clark attended the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, where she earned bachelor’s degrees in economics and English literature, but she soon realized her passion was medicine. She went on to the Wayne State University School of Medicine in Detroit, where she graduated with high distinction in the top 10 of her class. Surgical training brought Dr. Clark to California. She completed a combined residency in general surgery and plastic surgery at the prestigious Stanford University Medical Center.
Qualifications & Professional Associations
Dr. Clark is among an elite group of Sacramento plastic surgeons who are fellows of the American College of Surgeons, an organization dedicated to improving the care of surgical patients. Dr. Clark is a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons® and other professional organizations, including the California Society of Plastic Surgeons and the American Medical Women’s Association. Dr. Clark is also Keller Funnel™ Certified for the use of this implant delivery system during breast augmentation and breast reconstruction surgeries.
An Interview with Dr. Christa Clark
Give us your background
I am the first born of 2, with a brother who is 12 months and 10 days younger than me. We grew up Midwestern-style, in Flint, Michigan, where my family still lives. I had a very sweet childhood and hold onto very fond memories of that time. I remember making mud pies on my grandmother’s porch, swimming at the public pool each summer, visiting Lake Michigan, and snowmobiling in the winters. I think my strong sense of family came from those days.
I had my precocious moments, though. I was a picky eater, and I remember my mom would make me my own salad with just carrots, lettuce, and no dressing. We would always have to sit and wait at McDonald’s for my special orders. The pickiness has not changed (I still hate mayonnaise), but I have gotten more adventurous in many ways.
I have always had an entrepreneurial spirit. My first business venture was called “Christa’s Craft Shop.” I’d sew little pillows and paint rocks and then try to sell them to my family. When that business folded, I started a “Cool Club” in third grade, inspired by the movie Grease. Of course, I was the president. I even collected membership dues. It was all very organized. I’d like to think I bring some of that same spirit to my practice today.
Tell us about your schooling
I attended the University of Michigan where I earned a dual degree in economics and English literature. I graduated in the top 3% of my medical school class at Wayne State University in Detroit and then attended a 6-year plastic surgery residency at Stanford University Medical Center. After having a taste of the California weather, I decided I could never leave.
Why plastic surgery?
I like the variety of cases I perform. Working from head to toe makes each and every day different. I also enjoy the artistic component of the surgery. I get to mix my medical knowledge with a bit of creativity and art, which keeps my work very interesting and fun.
Most rewarding part of what you do?
Making people happy is a true blessing. I really enjoy helping others feel more confident about themselves. It’s amazing when patients walk into my office for a 6-month postoperative appointment to see their overall transformations, from the first “before” photos to how they look in the mirror months after surgery. I am constantly impressed by my patients and how dedicated they are to improving themselves. The surgery is just one part of a much bigger process of rejuvenating a person’s physical and emotional well-being. I feel blessed that I get to be a part of that process. It’s very fulfilling to know you have effected positive change in a person’s life.
How is it being a female plastic surgeon?
I usually do not think of myself in terms of being a female plastic surgeon. However, many of my Sacramento-area clients have remarked that I because I am female, I better understand what they are trying to describe as their goals for their final outcome. I think my female patients sometimes feel more comfortable opening up to me about their insecurities and how they’d like to change their bodies, and I think my male patients value a woman’s perspective. Also, I aim to put myself in my client’s shoes. I frequently ask myself whether I’d like to see my work on my own body. This keeps me focused on the little details and motivates me to constantly refine my surgical methods.
Family
I am married to my wonderful husband, James, whom I met on Match.com during my residency at Stanford. After kissing a few frogs, I finally found my prince! I stay busy as the proud mother of 2 beautiful children. My daughter, Ellen, is now in elementary school, and my son, Ryan, just learned to walk. It is a challenge balancing work commitments and family life, but because I love both so much, the chaos on my calendar is worth it.
Book or movie?
Without a doubt, I would have answered “book” in the past. I love to read and have read some amazing stories. I loved the Song of Fire and Ice series, recommended to me by a patient. I just finished Unbroken by Lauren Hillenbrand. However, my time is so limited and my eyelids get droopy so easily these days when I snuggle into a chair and open a book. Movies and TV shows are more convenient, and some can be just as thought-provoking as a book. I love “Breaking Bad,” which I unexpectedly became addicted to. My current favorite shows are “House of Cards” and “Sons of Anarchy.”
If you had a free winter afternoon, how would you spend it?
If I was in Tahoe, it would be skiing. Downhill skiing is great exercise, and I love spending time in nature. If I was here in Sacramento, I would most likely be playing with my kids or making a grocery run. There is nothing better than channeling your inner Giada De Laurentiis to inspire a day of winter cooking.
If you had a free summer afternoon, how would you spend it?
Outdoors in a swimming pool! Our family loves the summer and lounging poolside. My daughter usually has her swimsuit on by 8 a.m. and spends the whole day in the pool. She’s quite a good swimmer. The little man is starting swim lessons this summer, so I anticipate we will all be layered in sunscreen during the warm summer months.
Advice for those considering plastic surgery?
Do your research and make sure you are working with a qualified plastic surgeon in Sacramento or elsewhere. Ask to see examples of work. If they are good at what they do, they will love showing you their results. It is also important to feel a connection with your plastic surgeon’s office. You will spend some time there and will get to know the staff well. It is important to have a good connection with both the surgeon and the staff, as safe recovery and great results are a team effort. Don’t always go with the cheapest or even the most expensive doctor. What really matters is your level of confidence that this surgeon and her staff will deliver the results you are seeking.
Last word
Always try to treat others the way you wish to be treated. The Golden Rule has been ingrained in my mind since childhood, and has never steered me wrong!
