A new trend has emerged among affluent individuals seeking cosmetic procedures: the plastic surgery doula. This role, filled by concierge consultants like Julie Obst and Alana Ungvari, offers a comprehensive service that includes everything from selecting surgeons to coordinating private travel and arranging post-operative care.
Based in Los Angeles, Obst and Ungvari operate under the business name LA Beauty Connect, which they launched in 2023. They provide a high-touch experience for clients navigating the complex landscape of plastic surgery. Their services blend strategy, emotional support, and logistical expertise, effectively guiding clients through every step of their surgical journey.
Obst describes their approach as akin to that of a doula, emphasizing the importance of providing both physical and emotional support. “We hand-hold our clients from beginning to end of their journey,” she said, highlighting their commitment to making the process as seamless as possible.
The duo’s partnership began 25 years ago, when they quickly became friends after meeting while searching for roommates. Obst’s background in beauty public relations, inspired by her mother’s work as a makeup artist for major brands, complements Ungvari’s extensive experience in private equity and hospitality. This unique combination equips them to cater to the needs of their clients effectively.
The idea for their business crystallized when Obst faced difficulties during her own search for cosmetic surgery. “I was asking everybody and anybody,” she recalled, referencing the contradictory feedback she received about various surgeons. The experience underscored the confusion and frustration many face when selecting a doctor for cosmetic procedures.
Customized Concierge Service
The process at LA Beauty Connect begins with a detailed intake assessment, where clients discuss their health history, aesthetic preferences, budget, and timelines. Based on this information, Obst and Ungvari recommend surgeons from a vetted national network and accompany clients to consultations, ensuring that crucial details are noted.
For M. Cohan, who underwent a series of procedures in summer 2025, the service initially seemed unnecessary. “I thought I would be absolutely fine doing this on my own,” she said, citing her extensive professional background. However, a frustrating experience with a surgeon’s office led her to seek assistance from Obst and Ungvari, who ultimately saved her time and money by providing targeted recommendations.
Cohan appreciated the hands-on support from LA Beauty Connect, noting that during consultations, Obst and Ungvari knew what questions to ask and documented everything. Their presence alleviated the stress she initially felt and ensured she understood her surgical options.
The duo emphasizes that not all surgeons are suited for every procedure. Ungvari advises against relying solely on recommendations from friends, using a straightforward analogy: “You don’t date your best friend’s husband or partner, so you shouldn’t go to her favorite doctor.” They argue that matching clients with the right specialist is essential for successful outcomes.
Comprehensive Support Beyond Surgery
For clients traveling to Los Angeles for surgery, LA Beauty Connect offers a full range of services. This includes arranging private jet travel, stocking refrigerators with recovery-friendly foods, and coordinating post-operative care such as lymphatic drainage massages and private nursing.
On the day of surgery, the duo provides logistical support and ensures constant communication between the client, the surgeon’s office, and aftercare facilities. Cohan noted feeling more relaxed knowing Obst and Ungvari were managing the process on her behalf, including monitoring the surgery.
Their attention to detail extends to every aspect of the client experience, even considering factors like parking at the surgeon’s office. They also prepare clients for potential surprises, reassuring them not to be deterred by superficial impressions, such as the appearance of clinic staff.
Cohan’s experience did not end once she left the operating room. Obst and Ungvari assisted her in selecting an appropriate aftercare facility and even arranged for a nurse on short notice. Their ongoing support proved invaluable during her recovery.
While some remain skeptical about the motivations behind cosmetic procedures, Obst and Ungvari assert that for many clients, these decisions are deeply personal and transformative. They have witnessed significant changes in clients’ lives, from correcting botched surgeries to helping individuals regain confidence through successful procedures.
The cost of their services begins at approximately $750 for an initial consultation, typically reaching around $10,000 for a comprehensive three-month concierge package. Despite the price tag, Ungvari stresses the importance of investing wisely in elective surgery, cautioning against the risks of choosing lower-cost options.
In a world increasingly dominated by online searches for medical information, the duo warns against relying solely on algorithms. “Nothing is ever going to replace a human being in feedback, emotion, and support,” Ungvari stated, emphasizing the need for personalized guidance.
Ultimately, the satisfaction derived from their work goes beyond financial gain. “To have people look at us and say, ‘I couldn’t have done this without you two,’ is incredibly gratifying,” Ungvari expressed. In the complex landscape of cosmetic surgery, Obst and Ungvari have established themselves as essential allies for those seeking both expertise and support.
