At the heart of our practice is Dr. James Rough, a board-certified plastic surgeon whose calm presence and meticulous skill have made him one of Tucson’s most trusted names in aesthetic and reconstructive surgery. Patients know him not only for his advanced expertise but also for the compassion, honesty, and respect he brings to every consultation.
Board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, Dr. James Rough specializes in providing advanced cosmetic and reconstructive surgeries of the body and face.
His goal is to bring out the natural beauty of individuals in Tucson, AZ, so he customizes each treatment according to each individual's needs and concerns. With an artistic eye, Dr. Rough delivers exceptional results by finding the right balance between human anatomy, proportion, and shape during every surgical procedure he performs. He understands that having plastic surgery is a big decision, and he takes the time to guide you through your treatment options to help you feel confident, safe, and comfortable.
Dr. Rough obtained his Bachelor of Science in microbiology from Northern Arizona University, where he graduated with honors before going on to earn his medical degree at Temple University School of Medicine in Philadelphia, PA. He then completed his five-year general surgery residency at the University of Arizona. Following that, Dr. Rough completed his three-year plastic surgery residency at the University of California, Los Angeles, and it was there that he also expanded his surgical skills through an additional one year fellowship in microsurgery.
Dr. Rough’s journey reflects a lifelong commitment to learning and excellence.
His academic achievements include numerous research publications and awards, such as the PRS Best Breast Paper Award (2020), recognizing his contribution to innovation in plastic surgery.
In addition to his training at UCLA, Dr. Rough traveled abroad to Colombia to receive extensive training from Dr. Alfredo Hoyos, the creator of the high-definition liposuction technique so he could bring VASER® to his own practice. He is fluent in English and Spanish, which makes it easier for patients with diverse backgrounds to communicate with him about their care. Dr. Rough has also written research for several publications about various topics in plastic surgery, such as traumatic injury and breast reduction.
For Dr. Rough, surgery is not just about transformation—it’s about trust. He believes every patient deserves more than a technical outcome; they deserve to feel truly seen, heard, and cared for. His approach is built on four core pillars:
As a fluent Spanish speaker, Dr. Rough ensures patients feel comfortable expressing themselves in the language they prefer. This bilingual ability helps him connect more deeply with Tucson’s diverse community, breaking down barriers to care and creating an inclusive environment for all.
While his credentials are impressive, what patients notice most is Dr. Rough’s approachable, down-to-earth nature. He and his wife, NP-Claudia Rough, work together to offer a seamless spectrum of care—from advanced surgical procedures to non-surgical treatments. Outside of the operating room, Dr. Rough enjoys family life in Tucson, where warmth, authenticity, and community guide everything he does.
Choosing a plastic surgeon is one of the most personal decisions you’ll ever make. With Dr. Rough, you’ll find more than an accomplished surgeon—you’ll find a trusted partner in your journey.
