Jonas A. Nelson, MD

I was drawn to a career in oncology after watching a close family member confront cancer when I was young. I was later led to plastic surgery after working closely with a plastic surgeon on several international medical trips. I saw that surgeon’s ability to help patients regain a sense of normalcy. Later in my education, I discovered just how critical reconstructive surgery can be, both functionally and psychologically.

As a former college athlete, form and function have always been important to me. I am especially interested in helping people recover quickly and safely after surgery. I also want to help them achieve a similar degree of function so that they can get back to doing the things they love. Much of my research specifically looks at recovery after breast reconstruction using free abdominal tissue (DIEP and msfTRAM flaps). I strive to help patients recover function quickly following breast reconstruction or other reconstructive surgeries.

My research interests also focus on patient-reported outcomes after reconstruction, particularly breast reconstruction. I hope to gain a better understanding of what leads to long-term satisfaction following reconstructive procedures. We can then use this data to achieve better overall results for people who have had cancer.

A cancer diagnosis and the procedures needed to treat the disease can cause anxiety and stress. When I meet with patients and their families, I hope to help alleviate some of their anxieties by answering their questions and clearly laying out a plan of action. At MSK, it is our job to care for our patients. We take extraordinary pride in providing top-level care. I want my patients to walk away from their consultation feeling reassured that they are in good hands.

When not at work, I am with my wife and three daughters, often enjoying some aspect of the city, food, music, or fitness.