In the ever-evolving world of aesthetic medicine and wellness, Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) is gaining attention for its ability to accelerate recovery, enhance healing, and support overall well-being. Dr. Usha Rajagopal, a leading plastic surgeon in the San Francisco area, has been at the forefront of integrating HBOT into her practice — not just for surgical patients, but for anyone seeking optimized health and recovery.
“HBOT has been around for a long time, originally for things like decompression sickness and delayed wound healing,” Dr. Usha explains. “What’s exciting now is how it’s being used to help people recover faster, heal better, and even improve wellness at a cellular level.”
The therapy itself is straightforward but powerful: patients breathe concentrated oxygen from room air in a pressurized chamber, allowing oxygen to dissolve directly into the plasma and reach tissues beyond the limits of blood flow. This means even areas with compromised circulation can get the oxygen they need. ‘It’s particularly helpful for patients with vascular issues or injuries,’ she says. “Their cells can receive oxygen directly, which traditional recovery methods can’t achieve.”
Dr. Usha has seen remarkable results in her patients, particularly those undergoing combination surgeries that involve large areas of the body. Pre-surgery sessions help prepare the body, and post-surgery treatments can accelerate healing, improve energy levels, and reduce complications. “Patients consistently report feeling better, and you can see the difference in how quickly they recover,” she notes.
But HBOT’s benefits go beyond surgery. Dr. Usha recommends it for athletes, people recovering from concussions, and those dealing with chronic conditions like long COVID or inflammatory bowel disease. “Even after a tough workout, HBOT can reduce soreness, improve muscle performance, and enhance cognitive function,” she says. “It’s about rejuvenating the body at a cellular level.”
Comfort and experience are key in her clinic. The chambers are spacious, air-conditioned, and designed like first-class airline seats, making treatments relaxing and easy to enjoy. “Even if patients don’t notice immediate results after a single session, the benefits accumulate over consecutive treatments,” she says.
For those curious about trying HBOT, Dr. Usha suggests starting with a few sessions to experience the therapy, then following a personalized protocol depending on the goal — whether it’s acute recovery, long-term wellness, or cellular rejuvenation. “Consistency matters,” she emphasizes. “Like working out, supplying tissues with oxygen over time produces real benefits.”
Dr. Usha sees HBOT as a natural extension of her holistic approach to patient care. “My goal has always been to help patients look good, feel good, and support their health for years to come,” she says. “HBOT fits seamlessly into that philosophy, empowering patients both physically and psychologically.”
As more people discover the science behind oxygen therapy, Dr. Usha believes HBOT will become a cornerstone in both aesthetic recovery and overall wellness. For patients seeking faster healing, improved energy, and a proactive approach to long-term health, it offers a compelling, evidence-backed solution — one deep breath at a time.
