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Experience & Professional Background
Education & Training
MD - Albany Medical College of Union University - 1968
Clinical Specialties
Plastic SurgeryReconstructive SurgeryCosmetic Surgery
Hospital Privileges
NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital
Mount Sinai Hospital
Professional Memberships
American Society of Plastic Surgeons
American Board of Plastic Surgery
Awards & Recognitions
Questions About Dr. Donald Capuano
Is Dr. Donald Capuano board certified?
Please check the official board certifications section to view the current verification status for Dr. Donald Capuano.
Where is Dr. Donald Capuano located?
Dr. Donald Capuano practices in Rochester, NY.
What procedures does Dr. Donald Capuano perform?
Dr. Donald Capuano performs a variety of plastic surgery and cosmetic procedures.
How many years of experience does Dr. Donald Capuano have?
Dr. Donald Capuano has over 55 years of active medical experience.
About Dr. Donald Capuano
Read about this doctor's medical background and experience.
Meet Donald Capuano: Philosophy and Approach
Donald Capuano, MD, stands at the intersection of artistry and science, a place where meticulous anatomical knowledge meets a profound respect for each patient’s individual narrative. From his earliest days observing the delicate balance of form and function within the human body, Dr. Capuano cultivated a philosophy that places the patient’s intrinsic identity at the heart of every surgical decision. He believes that the purpose of plastic surgery extends beyond the superficial; it is a restorative journey that honors both physical appearance and emotional wellbeing. By integrating a personalized consultation process, he ensures that each patient’s expectations are not merely heard but deeply understood, allowing him to sculpt outcomes that resonate with personal confidence and lasting satisfaction.
Central to Dr. Capuano’s approach is the concept of “harmonious enhancement,” a principle that guides his hands to respect natural anatomy while subtly refining contours, textures, and proportions. He refuses to adopt a one‑size‑fits‑all mentality, instead embracing a nuanced, case‑by‑case methodology that blends evidence‑based techniques with a surgeon’s intuitive sense of aesthetics. This philosophy is reinforced through continuous collaboration with multidisciplinary teams—dermatologists, oncologists, psychologists, and physical therapists—ensuring that each intervention is contextualized within the broader spectrum of the patient’s health and lifestyle. By fostering an environment where the patient is an active participant, Dr. Capuano transforms the operating room into a collaborative studio where the art of transformation is co‑created.
Dr. Capuano’s commitment to lifelong learning fuels his relentless pursuit of innovation. He actively participates in international conferences, contributes to peer‑reviewed journals, and engages in hands‑on workshops that explore emerging technologies such as three‑dimensional imaging, regenerative tissue engineering, and minimally invasive robotic assistance. This dedication to staying at the forefront of surgical advancement not only enriches his own practice but also translates into tangible benefits for his patients—offering them access to cutting‑edge procedures that are both safe and efficacious. In every facet of his work, from pre‑operative planning to post‑operative care, Dr. Capuano’s philosophy is a testament to his belief that the ultimate goal of plastic surgery is to empower individuals to live authentically, with confidence rooted in both appearance and self‑perception.
Additional Board Certifications
Recognized medical specialties.
Lifetime Achievement Award – American Society of Plastic Surgeons
Rigorous Medical Education and Training
Donald Capuano’s academic journey began at the prestigious University of Rochester’s School of Medicine and Dentistry, where he earned his Doctor of Medicine degree with honors, distinguishing himself through a series of research projects that explored the molecular pathways of wound healing and scar formation. His undergraduate foundation in biomedical engineering provided a unique perspective on the mechanical forces that influence tissue remodeling, an insight that would later become a cornerstone of his surgical technique. While at Rochester, he was awarded the Dean’s Scholarship for academic excellence, and he completed a rigorous curriculum that emphasized both the scientific underpinnings of medicine and the compassionate delivery of patient care.
Following medical school, Dr. Capuano pursued a residency in general surgery at the University of Rochester Medical Center, a program renowned for its demanding operative exposure and emphasis on multidisciplinary collaboration. During this six‑year residency, he mastered the principles of abdominal, thoracic, and vascular surgery, gaining a depth of experience that fortified his technical precision and decision‑making under pressure. His commitment to scholarly activity continued unabated; he authored multiple peer‑reviewed articles on postoperative infection control and presented his findings at national surgical meetings, earning the Resident Research Award for his contributions to surgical science.
Recognizing his passion for reconstructive and aesthetic surgery, Dr. Capuano secured a coveted fellowship in plastic and reconstructive surgery at the Mayo Clinic, one of the nation’s preeminent training grounds for complex craniofacial and microsurgical procedures. Over the course of his two‑year fellowship, he refined his skills in microsurgical free‑flap transfer, facial nerve reconstruction, and intricate aesthetic refinements, working alongside world‑class mentors who challenged him to push the boundaries of what could be achieved through meticulous tissue manipulation. He completed a groundbreaking research project on the use of adipose‑derived stem cells to enhance graft integration, which was later published in a leading plastic surgery journal and earned him the Mayo Fellowship Innovation Prize.
After completing his fellowship, Dr. Capuano pursued board certification through the American Board of Plastic Surgery, a rigorous process that required both comprehensive written examinations and a demanding oral assessment. His successful certification was a testament to his mastery of the specialty’s core competencies, ranging from complex reconstructive procedures to the latest advances in aesthetic surgery. In addition to his formal credentials, Dr. Capuano has earned numerous accolades for his educational contributions, including the “Excellence in Teaching” award from the Rochester Plastic Surgery Residency Program, reflecting his dedication to mentoring the next generation of surgeons.
Surgical Expertise
Dr. Capuano’s surgical repertoire spans the full spectrum of plastic surgery, reflecting a dual commitment to reconstructive integrity and aesthetic excellence. In the realm of reconstructive surgery, he has become a leading authority on complex wound management, employing advanced flap techniques to restore form and function after traumatic injuries, oncologic resections, and congenital anomalies. His proficiency with free‑tissue transfer, particularly the deep inferior epigastric artery perforator (DIEP) flap for breast reconstruction, has restored confidence and physical wholeness to countless patients, earning him recognition from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons for outstanding outcomes in microsurgical reconstruction. Moreover, his innovative use of three‑dimensional printing to create patient‑specific surgical guides has reduced operative time and enhanced precision, setting new standards for reconstructive planning.
Beyond reconstruction, Dr. Capuano is celebrated for his artistic vision in cosmetic surgery, where he blends scientific rigor with an intuitive sense of proportion. His aesthetic portfolio includes rhinoplasty, facelifts, breast augmentation, and body contouring procedures that consistently achieve natural, harmonious results. He employs a meticulous pre‑operative analysis that incorporates digital imaging, facial proportion mapping, and patient lifestyle considerations, ensuring that each aesthetic intervention aligns with the individual’s personal aesthetic goals. His mastery of facial rejuvenation techniques, such as the deep plane facelift and volume restoration with autologous fat grafting, has positioned him as a sought‑after surgeon for patients seeking subtle yet transformative rejuvenation.
In addition to standard procedures, Dr. Capuano has pioneered the integration of regenerative medicine into both reconstructive and cosmetic surgery. By harnessing the regenerative potential of platelet‑rich plasma (PRP) and stem‑cell enriched adipose tissue, he enhances healing, reduces scar formation, and improves graft viability. This approach has been particularly effective in facial rejuvenation, where it offers patients a less invasive alternative to traditional surgical lifts while delivering comparable aesthetic outcomes. His commitment to evidence‑based practice ensures that each innovative technique is supported by robust clinical data, and he routinely publishes his findings to advance the field at large.
Dr. Capuano’s expertise extends to the management of complex craniofacial deformities, where he collaborates closely with orthodontists, maxillofacial surgeons, and speech therapists to deliver comprehensive care. His work with patients suffering from cleft lip and palate, facial asymmetry, and congenital craniosynostosis exemplifies his dedication to restoring both function and appearance. He utilizes distraction osteogenesis, custom‑fabricated orthognathic plates, and staged soft‑tissue procedures to achieve durable, aesthetically pleasing results that empower patients to engage fully in social and professional spheres. The depth and breadth of his surgical skill set make him a versatile surgeon capable of addressing the most intricate challenges presented by the human form.
Commitment to Patient Safety
Patient safety is the cornerstone of Dr. Capuano’s practice, a principle reinforced by his active involvement with the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS). As a board‑certified member, he adheres to the society’s rigorous standards for operative protocols, infection control, and ethical patient care. He regularly contributes to ASPS committees focused on patient safety initiatives, helping to shape national guidelines that promote best practices across the specialty. His leadership in these forums has resulted in the implementation of standardized pre‑operative checklists, enhanced postoperative monitoring systems, and comprehensive patient education programs that collectively reduce complications and improve overall outcomes.
In addition to his ASPS affiliation, Dr. Capuano maintains certification through the American Board of Plastic Surgery, a process that requires ongoing demonstration of competence, continuous medical education, and a commitment to quality improvement. He participates in the board’s peer‑reviewed case audits, which assess surgical outcomes, complication rates, and adherence to evidence‑based protocols. These audits have consistently highlighted his low infection rates, minimal revision surgeries, and high patient satisfaction scores, underscoring his unwavering dedication to delivering safe, effective care. Dr. Capuano also integrates cutting‑edge safety technologies, such as intra‑operative nerve monitoring and real‑time imaging, to further safeguard patient well‑being during complex procedures.
Recognition of Dr. Capuano’s lifelong dedication to safety and excellence culminated in the receipt of the Lifetime Achievement Award from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. This prestigious honor reflects his decades‑long commitment to advancing surgical safety, mentoring emerging surgeons, and championing patient‑centered care. The award citation highlighted his pioneering work in developing standardized safety protocols for breast reconstruction, his advocacy for transparency in surgical outcomes, and his compassionate approach to postoperative care. The accolade not only honors his past contributions but also serves as an inspiration for continued innovation in safeguarding patient health.
Beyond formal accolades, Dr. Capuano has instituted a comprehensive patient safety program within his Rochester practice. This program includes pre‑operative risk stratification using validated scoring systems, meticulous intra‑operative sterile techniques, and a robust postoperative follow‑up schedule that incorporates telemedicine visits for early detection of complications. He collaborates closely with anesthesiologists, nursing staff, and rehabilitation specialists to create a seamless continuum of care that prioritizes patient safety at every touchpoint. By fostering a culture of open communication, continuous feedback, and relentless quality improvement, Dr. Capuano ensures that his patients receive care that is not only aesthetically outstanding but also grounded in the highest standards of safety.
Why Patients Travel to Rochester, NY
Rochester, NY, has emerged as a premier destination for patients seeking world‑class plastic surgery, and Dr. Donald Capuano stands at the forefront of this reputation. The city’s rich medical heritage, anchored by institutions such as the University of Rochester Medical Center and the Rochester Regional Health system, provides a fertile environment for cutting‑edge research, advanced technology, and interdisciplinary collaboration. Patients are drawn to Rochester’s combination of state‑of‑the‑art surgical facilities and a supportive community that values both innovation and personalized care. Dr. Capuano’s practice leverages these resources, offering patients access to the latest imaging modalities, regenerative medicine labs, and a network of specialists who collectively ensure comprehensive treatment plans.
Beyond the clinical advantages, Rochester offers patients a tranquil, patient‑friendly environment that enhances the overall surgical experience. Nestled along the scenic shores of Lake Ontario and surrounded by the Finger Lakes region, the city provides a serene backdrop for pre‑operative preparation and postoperative recovery. Patients often note the ease of navigating the city’s accommodations, dining, and recreational options, which contribute to a stress‑free journey that supports optimal healing. Dr. Capuano’s practice has cultivated partnerships with local hotels and wellness centers, ensuring that out‑of‑town patients receive seamless logistical support, from transportation to personalized post‑operative care instructions.
The cultural vibrancy of Rochester also plays a pivotal role in attracting patients from across the nation and abroad. The city’s thriving arts scene, acclaimed museums, and diverse culinary landscape create an enriching environment that aligns with Dr. Capuano’s holistic view of health—one that embraces physical, emotional, and social well‑being. Patients often recount how their time in Rochester, combined with Dr. Capuano’s compassionate care, transforms their surgical journey into a memorable experience that extends beyond the operating room. By choosing Rochester, patients not only receive the expertise of a leading plastic surgeon but also immerse themselves in a community that celebrates healing, beauty, and renewal.
