How A Celebrity Plastic Surgeon Curates A Space Of Beauty

Dr. Nikolov’s waiting room in his Beverly Hills office

Dr. Nicholas Nikolov

Dr. Nicholas Nikolov may be best known as one of Beverly Hills’ most sought-after plastic surgeons, but beyond his reputation for precision and artistry, there’s another side to his practice. Step into his office, and you’ll find walls decorated with meaningful artwork. These pieces aren’t displayed merely to take up space on the walls, but rather to symbolize the friendship, gratitude, and connection he has with the people he works with. Plastic surgery itself is a highly personal process, which is why his patients often become his friends.

In addition to his thriving practice, Dr. Nikolov also serves as Chief Medical Officer of CellSound, a non-invasive aesthetic treatment used for both body contouring and skin rejuvenation. CellSound combines non-focused ultrasound with an electric field, a method called ElectroSonic Resonance to help ultrasound waves penetrate deeper into tissue. This not only stimulates collagen production, but also encourages fat reduction. Many celebrities, including reality star and attorney, Phaedra Parks, are among its fans.

Here’s a look some of Dr. Nikolov’s collection and along with stories behind each piece.

A Gift From A Legend

One of the most meaningful works hung in Dr. Nikolov’s office is an original piece by Rod Dyer, who is best known for designing album covers and film posers for artists ranging from Carole King to Peter Frampton and The Beach Boys as well as movies including the iconic Fast Times at Ridgemont High.

Cool and modern, with a retro twist, it’s a true favorite. “This piece was especially meaningful because Rod personally made it and gifted it to me,” says Dr. Nikolov. “It’s disjointed and random at first glance, but once you look closer, you find comfort in the patterns. It mirrors what I do as a surgeon—taking things apart and bringing them back together in harmony and beauty.”

Gossip In The Waiting Room

Another piece that stands out is a painting by Roberta de la Sayer called The Conversation. Depicting women deep in discussion, it was gifted to Dr. Nikolov by a friend who spotted it at an auction and felt it was a perfect fit for a plastic surgeon’s waiting area.

This piece feels “It’s women gossiping, which is very apropos,” Dr. Nikolov explains. “Plastic surgery often comes with stories, speculation, and conversations—about what’s new, who’s had what done, and where. It’s playful, but it also feels very fitting for the space.”

Photography With Elegance

Dr. Nikolov has several photographs in his office, including one picture by longtime friend and photographer Curtis Knapp, who is best known for his portraits of top Japanese models and celebrities including Madonna and Andy Warhol. The gifted piece is a limited-edition print (one of 25), featuring a nude model shot in striking black and white.

“While the subject matter might sound unconventional for a medical office, it’s done with such beauty and sophistication that patients often comment on how striking it is,” Dr. Nikolov tells me. “It reflects elegance rather than provocation, and it ties beautifully to my work in enhancing the human form.”

More Than Just Decor

Dr. Nikolov acknowledges that some works in his office are chosen for their harmony with the decor, but he emphasizes that each is meaningful in its own way. “Every piece has to speak to me in some way,” he notes. “Even if it simply balances the tones of the room, it still has to convey warmth or a sense of story.”

For Dr. Nikolov, the art on his walls isn’t just decoration, it’s part of the environment he creates for his patients, a space that feels refined yet welcoming, thoughtful yet approachable, especially because plastic surgery can feel so emotional. The mix of personal gifts, auction finds, and professional friendships makes his collection as layered as the conversations that happen within his practice.

“In the end,” the physician reflects, “it’s about finding harmony in the chaos. That’s true for art, for surgery, and for life.”