FacesFirst Cosmetic Surgery is proud to celebrate a remarkable achievement: both Dr. Christopher Cote and Dr. Nicolette Picerno have once again been named Top Doctors by 5280 Magazine and Castle Connolly for 2025. This marks the third year in a row that both surgeons have earned this prestigious recognition, having also been honored in 2023 and 2024. Consistently achieving this distinction speaks to their ongoing dedication to excellence, patient-centered care, and leadership in the field of facial plastic surgery.

What Makes These Awards Meaningful

The Top Doctors awards are widely respected because they are based on peer recognition. Each year, 5280 Magazine compiles its list of the top physicians in the Denver metro area by asking doctors across specialties which of their colleagues they would trust with their own family’s care. The result is a resource that patients can rely on to identify the most skilled and respected medical professionals in the region.

On a national scale, Castle Connolly Top Doctors® recognizes only about seven percent of physicians across the United States. Doctors are nominated by peers and evaluated on credentials, leadership, contributions to research, and quality of patient care. To receive this recognition year after year reflects not only clinical excellence but also the trust and respect of colleagues nationwide.

For patients considering facial surgery, these awards provide reassurance that when choosing FacesFirst, they are choosing surgeons who are consistently acknowledged at both the local and national levels for their expertise, integrity, and patient outcomes.

Meet Dr. Christopher Cote

Dr. Christopher Cote is a double-board-certified facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon, as well as an otolaryngologist. He has several specialties, including aesthetic and functional rhinoplasty, medical and surgical treatment of facial paralysis and nasal obstruction, and more.

His distinguished career includes twelve years of service in the United States Army, where he held leadership roles such as Chief of Otolaryngology for U.S. Forces in Korea and Chief of Facial Plastic Surgery at Walter Reed. He also served as an otolaryngologist consultant for the White House Medical Unit. These experiences honed his skills and gave him unique insight into the importance of precision, adaptability, and patient trust.

In addition to his military service, Dr. Cote has been nationally recognized for his expertise in rhinoplasty, including being named to Newsweek’s America’s Best Plastic Surgeons list in 2023 and 2024. His approach to surgery emphasizes both form and function, ensuring results that enhance appearance while maintaining or improving essential structures. 

Patients seek him out for his technical skill, artistic eye, and commitment to delivering results that look natural and feel life-changing.

Meet Dr. Nicolette Picerno

Dr. Nicolette Picerno is double board-certified in facial plastic surgery, head and neck surgery, and otolaryngology. This extensive certification underscores her comprehensive knowledge and skill in addressing complex cases related to the head and neck, with a specialized focus on aesthetic and reconstructive procedures of the face. Dr. Picerno specializes in facelifts, neck lifts, brow lifts, and more at FacesFirst.

Her achievements include Castle Connolly’s America’s Best Cosmetic Doctor recognition in 2005 and 2006, along with multiple Top Doctor awards in more recent years. Her continued recognition in 2023, 2024, and now 2025 reflects her reputation for excellence and consistency in patient care. Dr. Picerno is particularly recognized for her ability to create individualized treatment plans tailored to each patient’s facial structure and stage of the aging process. 

Patients often describe her as compassionate, approachable, and deeply committed to helping them feel confident at every step of their journey.

Schedule a Consultation in Denver or Lone Tree

For three consecutive years, Dr. Cote and Dr. Picerno have been recognized by both 5280 Magazine and Castle Connolly as Top Doctors. This ongoing achievement highlights the high standards of care that patients can expect at FacesFirst. 

When it comes to facial plastic or reconstructive surgery, experience and recognition matter. At FacesFirst Cosmetic Surgery, patients can trust Dr. Cote and Dr. Picerno, award-winning surgeons who are consistently recognized for their excellence and compassion. 

Schedule your consultation today to meet our 2025 Top Doctors and learn how their expertise can help you look and feel your best!