Pediatric Plastic Surgery
Med School/Year Graduated: University of Nevada, 2011
Years in Practice: 9
Since this is pediatric plastic surgery, we’re obviously not talking about nose jobs and tummy tucks. What are the most common issues you treat? And the most extraordinary?
In pediatric plastic surgery, we take care of patients who are born with a specific diagnosis, [most often] cleft lip and palate. We also take care of patients who are involved in traumatic accidents and need reconstruction, such as a facial fracture. We also see very rare diagnoses that are difficult to treat – this is why we have complex multidisciplinary teams at Phoenix Children’s to best treat these patients.
What other specialists do you typically collaborate with on a given case?
We work with many different surgical specialties, such as ENT, neurosurgery and general surgery, as well as our talented team of pediatric anesthesiologists, in the operating room. Outside the OR, we collaborate with genetic specialists, psychologists, physical therapists, speech and feeding therapists, researchers and more.
In your bio, you say, “Pediatric patients are inspiring and resilient.” What can adult patients learn from them?
Pediatric patients are very brave and mentally tough. They also aren’t ever sad or scared for too long. This seems to help them approach recovery from surgery or illness in a different, healthy way.
How often do you stay in touch with patients you treated as babies or small children?
All the time! Our bodies and faces change as we grow, so I get to follow patients from birth until they are done growing, and sometimes even after. This is one of the best parts of my job.
You served a month-long medical mission to Kenya. What did you learn beyond your medical work there?
Anytime I go on a medical mission, I feel like I learn so much. Beyond the rare diseases and insight into global health, the biggest thing that this trip helped me remember was that we have more than we could ever need.
You enjoy the great outdoors. What are your favorite places to explore in Arizona? Hiking, camping, etc.?
The Grand Canyon must be one of the most special places on earth! We are so lucky to live this close.
What are you streaming on TV these days?
Trevor Noah comedy specials on Netflix!
“If I wasn’t a doctor, I’d be…”
Hiking up a mountain.
