University of Iowa Hospital – Orthodontics Department
Midwest Sleep Center – Sleep Medicine
Professional Memberships
American Association of Orthodontists
Questions About Dr. Kent Lauson
Is Dr. Kent Lauson board certified?
Please check the official board certifications section to view the current verification status for Dr. Kent Lauson.
Where is Dr. Kent Lauson located?
Dr. Kent Lauson practices in Aurora, CO.
What procedures does Dr. Kent Lauson perform?
Dr. Kent Lauson performs a variety of plastic surgery and cosmetic procedures.
How many years of experience does Dr. Kent Lauson have?
Dr. Kent Lauson has over 40 years of active medical experience.
About Dr. Kent Lauson
Read about this doctor's medical background and experience.
Meet Kent Lauson: Philosophy and Approach
Dr. Kent Lauson approaches plastic and reconstructive surgery with a philosophy that marries artistry with scientific rigor, believing that true aesthetic transformation emerges from an intimate understanding of each patient’s unique anatomy, lifestyle, and aspirations. From his earliest days in medicine, he was drawn to the delicate balance between form and function, recognizing that the most compelling results are achieved when a surgeon respects both the visible contours of the face and the invisible forces that drive health and vitality. This dual commitment to aesthetic excellence and physiological integrity informs every consultation, preoperative plan, and postoperative follow‑up in his practice.
At the core of Dr. Lauson’s methodology is a patient‑centered narrative that begins with in‑depth dialogue, allowing individuals to articulate their goals while he educates them on the possibilities and limitations of modern surgical techniques. He employs a comprehensive, three‑stage framework: diagnostic imaging, personalized surgical mapping, and meticulous execution. By integrating advanced three‑dimensional modeling with hands‑on anatomical expertise, he crafts a roadmap that anticipates challenges, optimizes tissue handling, and preserves critical neurovascular structures. This strategic foresight reduces operative time, enhances healing, and ultimately yields outcomes that feel both natural and personalized.
Beyond technical mastery, Dr. Lauson emphasizes holistic care, extending his focus to the psychological and emotional dimensions of surgical transformation. He collaborates closely with licensed psychologists, nutritionists, and physical therapists to construct a supportive network that guides patients through preoperative preparation and postoperative recovery. This interdisciplinary approach not only mitigates anxiety but also promotes long‑term satisfaction, as patients emerge from their journey with renewed confidence and a deeper appreciation for the collaborative nature of modern aesthetic medicine.
American Dental Association
American Academy of Facial Orthopedics
Awards & Recognitions
Lifetime Achievement Award – Iowa Dental Society
Excellence in Orthodontic Care – National Orthodontic Association
Rigorous Medical Education and Training
Dr. Kent Lauson’s academic journey began at the prestigious University of Colorado School of Medicine, where he graduated summa cum laude, distinguishing himself in both the basic sciences and clinical rotations. His relentless pursuit of knowledge earned him a coveted research fellowship in craniofacial biology, during which he contributed to groundbreaking studies on osteogenic differentiation and tissue engineering. These early experiences cultivated a profound respect for evidence‑based practice and ignited his passion for integrating regenerative concepts into surgical reconstruction.
Following medical school, Dr. Lauson completed a demanding general surgery residency at the Mayo Clinic, a program renowned for its rigorous operative exposure and emphasis on multidisciplinary collaboration. There, he refined his technical dexterity, mastering complex microsurgical techniques and gaining exposure to a wide spectrum of reconstructive challenges, from trauma to oncologic resections. His commitment to excellence was recognized through multiple resident teaching awards, reflecting his innate ability to translate complex concepts into clear, actionable guidance for his peers.
Seeking to specialize further, Dr. Lauson pursued a dedicated fellowship in facial plastic and reconstructive surgery at the University of Pennsylvania’s Center for Craniofacial Innovation. This fellowship provided intensive training in both aesthetic and functional procedures, including orthognathic surgery, facial nerve reconstruction, and advanced flap techniques. He also completed an additional fellowship in sleep medicine, allowing him to integrate obstructive sleep apnea treatment into his surgical repertoire. Throughout these formative years, Dr. Lauson cultivated a reputation for meticulous planning, compassionate patient interaction, and an unwavering dedication to surgical precision.
Surgical Expertise
Dr. Lauson’s surgical portfolio is distinguished by a breadth of expertise that spans traditional aesthetic procedures and complex functional interventions. In the realm of orthodontics, he collaborates closely with board‑certified orthodontists to design integrated treatment plans that harmonize dental alignment with facial aesthetics. By leveraging interdisciplinary insights, he ensures that surgical modifications complement orthodontic movements, enhancing both occlusal function and visual symmetry. This collaborative approach has resulted in a series of case studies highlighting improved long‑term stability and patient satisfaction.
Functional facial orthopedics represents another pillar of Dr. Lauson’s practice. He employs state‑of‑the‑art techniques such as distraction osteogenesis and guided bone remodeling to address congenital and acquired deformities. His mastery of these procedures enables him to correct skeletal discrepancies without resorting to extensive grafting, thereby reducing donor site morbidity and accelerating recovery. Patients who have undergone functional facial orthopedics under his care frequently report not only enhanced facial harmony but also improvements in breathing, speech, and overall quality of life.
Specializing in temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction treatment, Dr. Lauson integrates arthroscopic surgery, joint reconstruction, and minimally invasive arthroplasty to alleviate pain and restore mandibular function. He utilizes advanced imaging modalities, including cone‑beam CT and MRI, to map joint pathology with unparalleled precision, tailoring his interventions to each patient’s unique presentation. In addition, his expertise extends to the management of obstructive sleep apnea, where he applies innovative maxillomandibular advancement and soft tissue reduction techniques to open the airway and normalize breathing patterns. His multidisciplinary approach, which often incorporates sleep studies and CPAP titration data, has led to a marked reduction in apnea‑hypopnea indices for countless patients.
Commitment to Patient Safety
Patient safety is the cornerstone of Dr. Lauson’s practice, underscored by his active membership in leading professional organizations. As a fellow of the American Association of Orthodontists, he adheres to the highest standards of interdisciplinary collaboration, ensuring that every surgical plan aligns with orthodontic best practices and minimizes iatrogenic risk. His affiliation with the American Dental Association further reinforces his commitment to comprehensive oral health, allowing him to coordinate care with dental specialists and maintain a vigilant focus on infection control and postoperative monitoring.
Dr. Lauson’s dedication to safety is also reflected in his involvement with the American Academy of Facial Orthopedics, where he contributes to continuing education initiatives and peer‑reviewed research on novel surgical techniques. His contributions have been recognized with the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Iowa Dental Society, an honor that celebrates his sustained impact on both the dental and surgical communities. Moreover, the National Orthodontic Association bestowed upon him the Excellence in Orthodontic Care award, acknowledging his innovative integration of orthodontic principles into facial reconstructive surgery.
Beyond accolades, Dr. Lauson implements a robust safety protocol that incorporates preoperative risk stratification, intraoperative neuromonitoring, and postoperative wound surveillance. He employs a multidisciplinary safety committee that reviews each case, identifies potential complications, and establishes contingency plans. His operating suite is equipped with cutting‑edge technology, including laser‑guided navigation and real‑time fluorescence imaging, which collectively reduce operative time, limit blood loss, and enhance tissue viability. This unwavering focus on safety ensures that patients receive care that is not only aesthetically superior but also clinically sound.
Why Patients Travel to Aurora, CO
Aurora, Colorado, has emerged as a premier destination for patients seeking world‑class plastic and reconstructive surgery, and Dr. Kent Lauson’s practice is at the heart of this medical renaissance. Situated within a vibrant metropolitan corridor, Aurora offers a blend of serene natural landscapes and state‑of‑the‑art medical facilities that create an optimal environment for healing. The city’s proximity to the Rocky Mountains provides patients with restorative outdoor experiences, while the local climate—characterized by low humidity and abundant sunshine—facilitates scar maturation and overall postoperative comfort.
The surgical center where Dr. Lauson operates is accredited by the Joint Commission and equipped with a comprehensive suite of advanced technologies, including high‑definition imaging, robotic assistance, and a dedicated recovery lounge staffed by board‑certified anesthesiologists and nursing specialists. This infrastructure, combined with Aurora’s robust transportation network—featuring an international airport and premium lodging options—makes the logistical aspects of travel seamless for both domestic and international patients. Moreover, the city’s thriving community of health‑focused hospitality services, such as nutrition‑focused restaurants and physiotherapy clinics, supports a holistic recovery journey.
Beyond the tangible amenities, patients are drawn to Aurora for the personalized, boutique experience that Dr. Lauson provides. His practice emphasizes continuity of care, offering pre‑operative consultations via telemedicine, customized postoperative follow‑up schedules, and a concierge service that assists with travel arrangements, accommodations, and local excursions. This level of attentiveness fosters a sense of trust and confidence, allowing patients to focus entirely on their transformation. As a result, individuals from across the United States and abroad consistently choose Aurora, Colorado, as the destination where Dr. Kent Lauson’s unparalleled expertise, compassionate care, and the city’s supportive environment converge to deliver life‑changing results.
