Babak J. Mehrara, MD

I am a plastic surgeon who specializes in surgical reconstruction after cancer surgery. Using a variety of techniques, including microsurgical transfer, implants, and local flaps, my colleagues and I aim to restore the appearance and function of cancer patients who have undergone surgery to remove tumors. I have a particular interest in facial reconstruction, facial re-animation, and breast reconstruction. I am currently studying the use of perforator flaps (such as DIEP and SGAP flaps) in breast reconstruction.

Perforator flaps represent the evolution of microsurgical tissue transfer and are distinct from more traditional microsurgical procedures because they enable the transfer of tissues based solely on their blood supply (vascular pedicle). Unlike more traditional microsurgical flaps, perforator flaps avoid the use of donor muscles such as the rectus (abdominal) or gluteal (buttock) and are associated with decreased pain and faster recovery.

The nurses in our department offer an educational class on breast reconstruction options following a mastectomy, which is open to patients, families, and friends. For more information or to register, please see the event details.