Duke Head and Neck Surgery & Communication Sciences is meeting increased demand for facial plastic and reconstructive surgery (FPRS) by expanding services at Duke Raleigh Hospital and Wake County. The expansion brings additional training opportunities for residents and fellows as well as addressing patients’ desires for more services.
The Department brought in alumnus Alexa Franco, MD, to lead the expanded services. Dr. Franco received a Bachelor of Science in Psychology at Duke. She attended University of Miami for medical school, NYU for an Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery residency, and the Glasgold Group for Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery fellowship.
“I was drawn to Duke and the Department of Head and Neck Surgery & Communication Sciences for its wonderful leadership, steadfast support for my career goals, and opportunities for growth as a surgeon here and within the department,” Dr. Franco said. “As our department expands further into Wake County, with plans to open a new clinic and aesthetic center in Cary, I saw an incredible and enticing opportunity to build cosmetic FPRS services within this community.”
Before Dr. Franco arrived, there was limited FPRS experience for the residents in their Duke Raleigh rotation. The expansion of the division will allow the residents more exposure to the FPRS field not only during that rotation but at the Duke Aesthetic Center as well.
“My new role will provide more exposure to aesthetic or cosmetic surgery, which is often lacking in academic residency programs,” Dr. Franco said. This includes facial rejuvenation procedures (such as facelift, brow lift, injectables, upper and lower eyelid surgery, and fat transfer) and rhinoplasty.
Whether or not the resident plans to pursue FPRS, they will be provided with a wider breadth of knowledge and experience during their training. These experiences will allow residents to observe and implement such techniques in their own practice or to help prepare them for fellowship.
Patients will also benefit from the expanded services.
“By expanding FPRS services at Duke Raleigh and in Wake County, we are fulfilling a need that is present within this community,” Dr. Franco said. “Patients will have access to reconstructive and cosmetic techniques and procedures that will enhance other aspects of their care.”