The Buckingham Center for Facial Plastic Surgery is dedicated to providing care that is defined by integrity, advanced training, and exceptional surgical artistry. We are proud to celebrate a significant milestone for one of our own. Dr. Hudson Frey, who is double board-certified in facial plastic surgery and otolaryngology, has been recognized as a Castle Connolly Rising Star. This prestigious national honor is awarded to early-career physicians who demonstrate outstanding skill, a commitment to patient-centered care, and a continuous pursuit of excellence in their specialty.
This honor is awarded to only 7% of all board-certified physicians in the U.S., emphasizing Dr. Frey's exceptional surgical skills and commitment to advancing facial plastic and reconstructive surgery. We are very proud to congratulate him on this well-deserved recognition!
National Recognition Rooted in Excellence
The Castle Connolly Rising Star designation is among the most respected early-career distinctions in medicine. Each year, only a select group of physicians nationwide earn this honor through:
- Peer nomination
- Rigorous professional evaluation
- Demonstrated excellence in clinical quality
- Meaningful contributions to research and innovation
- Dedication to education, leadership, and community service
Dr. Frey’s selection also highlights the qualities that define his presence within our practice: a calm, attentive approach, a meticulous eye for detail, and the kind of thoughtful guidance that helps patients feel informed, understood, and genuinely supported throughout their care.
His Rising Star recognition also aligns him with his esteemed colleagues, Dr. Edward Buckingham and Dr. Erin Smith, both of whom hold the prestigious Castle Connolly Top Doctor distinction for their longstanding excellence in facial plastic surgery.
When Dr. Frey reaches ten years post–medical school — a requirement for Top Doctor eligibility — he will be considered for inclusion on that list as well. Given his trajectory, dedication, and impact, we are confident this recognition is on the horizon.
Defined by Dedication
Dr. Frey’s path to facial plastic surgery began with extraordinary academic achievement. Graduating with a perfect 4.0 GPA from the University of Mississippi Medical Center and earning Cum Laude honors, he laid a strong foundation for a distinguished career. He then completed a rigorous residency in otolaryngology–head and neck surgery, where he earned multiple awards recognizing academic excellence, leadership, and outstanding teaching.
His passion for the intricacies of facial anatomy and aesthetic harmony ultimately led him to a coveted fellowship in Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery at the Buckingham Center, where he trained directly under Dr. Edward Buckingham. There, he honed advanced techniques in facial rejuvenation, rhinoplasty, facial paralysis surgery, and skin cancer reconstruction—preparing him to deliver exceptional, natural-looking results to patients of all ages.
Today, as a double-board-certified facial plastic surgeon, Dr. Frey continues to elevate the standard of care not only at our practice but throughout the entire field of facial plastic surgery.
A Leader in Education, Research, and Community Impact
Beyond his surgical expertise, Dr. Frey actively contributes to shaping the future of facial plastic surgery. His recent appointment as affiliate faculty at Dell Medical School reflects his dedication to teaching and mentorship, where he helps train upcoming physicians by sharing the insight, perspective, and professionalism that have guided his own path.
His leadership is also evident through his involvement in key professional organizations, including:
- American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (AAFPRS)
- American Board of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery (ABOHNS)
- South Texas Facial Plastic Society
- Texas Association of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery
- Austin Society of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery
In addition, Dr. Frey contributes meaningfully to academic progress in the field through:
- Peer-reviewed journal publications
- Authorship of respected book chapters
- Podium presentations and posters at national meetings
Dr. Frey’s influence reaches far beyond clinical practice. His commitment to service is demonstrated through global surgical mission work, including efforts in Kenya, with plans to continue expanding care in medically underserved regions around the world.
This combination of academic engagement, global outreach, and thoughtful mentorship reflects the spirit of service, integrity, and compassion that defines the Buckingham Center.
The Buckingham Center: A New Standard of Excellence
Our strength stems from the collective expertise of a team that brings diverse perspectives, thoughtful collaboration, and a shared vision for delivering exceptional patient care. Within this environment, Dr. Frey contributes a thoughtful presence and a modern, forward-looking perspective that enhances the experience we provide every day.
Working alongside Dr. Edward Buckingham and Dr. Erin Smith, he becomes part of a surgical team known for shaping the direction of facial aesthetics and reconstruction through mentorship, innovation, and decades of combined experience. Their complementary backgrounds allow patients to benefit from a depth of knowledge that spans advanced surgical techniques, academic leadership, and longstanding ties to the field.
Dr. Frey’s Rising Star recognition also reflects the strength of this team dynamic — a culture that encourages inquiry, precision, and the constant refinement of technique. His achievement highlights how each physician contributes to an environment where learning, thoughtful discussion, and collaborative problem-solving are integral to everyday practice.
This honor reinforces our ongoing goal: to provide facial aesthetic and reconstructive care that feels personal, informed, and grounded in an approach that values authenticity, balance, and patient trust.
Celebrating the Future Ahead
As we celebrate Dr. Frey’s Castle Connolly Rising Star Award, we also celebrate the dedication, long hours, curiosity, and compassion it represents. Honors like this reflect years of effort—and more importantly, the trust of the patients who invite us into their journey.
We are honored to work beside Dr. Frey, and we look forward to the continued growth, innovation, and transformative care he will bring to our community and beyond.
Congratulations, Dr. Frey. Your talent, heart, and commitment inspire us all.
