Dr. Ramona Behshad - Plastic Surgeon in Saint Louis, MO

Meet Ramona Behshad: Philosophy and Approach

Ramona Behshad, MD, approaches the art and science of aesthetic and reconstructive surgery with a philosophy that blends meticulous technical precision with an unwavering commitment to the individuality of each patient. From the moment she steps into her consultation room, she emphasizes a partnership model, encouraging patients to articulate not only their desired outcomes but also their underlying motivations, lifestyle considerations, and long‑term aesthetic goals. This patient‑centered methodology is rooted in a belief that true beauty is not a one‑size‑fits‑all concept but rather a harmonious interplay between a person’s unique facial architecture, skin characteristics, and personal identity. Dr. Behshad’s practice, therefore, is built upon a foundation of active listening, comprehensive education, and a transparent discussion of realistic expectations, ensuring that each surgical plan is both medically sound and personally resonant.

Beyond the clinical interaction, Dr. Behshad integrates a holistic view of health into her surgical philosophy. She recognizes that the body’s physiological state—nutrition, sleep quality, stress management, and even mental well‑being—directly influences wound healing, scar formation, and overall satisfaction with aesthetic results. Consequently, she routinely collaborates with nutritionists, physiotherapists, and mental health professionals to optimize pre‑operative preparation and post‑operative recovery. By treating the patient as an interconnected system rather than a mere set of anatomical structures, she elevates the surgical experience from a procedural event to a transformative journey, fostering confidence, resilience, and a renewed sense of self.

Innovation and continuous learning serve as the twin pillars of Dr. Behshad’s approach. In an era where technology rapidly reshapes surgical possibilities—from three‑dimensional imaging and computer‑assisted design to minimally invasive energy‑based devices—she remains at the forefront by participating in national conferences, contributing to peer‑reviewed journals, and engaging in hands‑on workshops with leading pioneers. Yet, she balances this technological enthusiasm with a reverence for time‑tested surgical principles, ensuring that every new tool is evaluated through the lens of safety, efficacy, and patient benefit. This synthesis of cutting‑edge science and classical technique underpins her reputation for delivering outcomes that are not only aesthetically superior but also durable and physiologically harmonious.

Rigorous Medical Education and Training

Dr. Behshad’s academic journey began at Washington University in St. Louis, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology in 2004. Immersed in a rigorous curriculum that emphasized molecular biology, genetics, and cellular physiology, she cultivated a deep appreciation for the fundamental mechanisms that govern human tissue behavior. Her undergraduate research experience, which involved investigating the role of extracellular matrix components in wound healing, sparked an early fascination with the interplay between cellular processes and clinical outcomes—an intrigue that would later shape her surgical philosophy. Moreover, the vibrant intellectual community at Washington University exposed her to interdisciplinary collaborations, fostering a mindset that values cross‑specialty insights and the integration of basic science into clinical practice.

Following her undergraduate studies, Dr. Behshad pursued her medical degree at the University of Missouri School of Medicine, graduating in 2008. The rigorous medical program, known for its emphasis on community health, evidence‑based medicine, and patient advocacy, provided her with a comprehensive understanding of disease pathology, pharmacology, and clinical diagnostics. During her clinical rotations, she distinguished herself in surgical clerkships, where she demonstrated an innate dexterity, keen spatial awareness, and an ability to remain composed under pressure—qualities that earned the admiration of both faculty and peers. Her commitment to academic excellence was further reflected in her involvement in research projects focused on dermatologic oncology, contributing to publications that explored novel therapeutic approaches for cutaneous malignancies.

Upon completion of her MD, Dr. Behshad embarked on a demanding postgraduate training pathway that blended dermatology, skin cancer surgery, and Mohs micrographic surgery. This extended residency and fellowship period allowed her to master the delicate balance between aesthetic refinement and oncologic vigilance. Throughout her training, she honed her operative skills under the mentorship of nationally recognized experts, learning to navigate complex facial anatomy, perform precise tissue excisions, and reconstruct defects with minimal tension and optimal vascularity. The cumulative effect of this rigorous education and hands‑on experience solidified her reputation as a surgeon capable of delivering both oncologic safety and aesthetic excellence, a dual competency that remains a hallmark of her practice today.

Surgical Expertise

Dr. Behshad’s surgical repertoire encompasses a broad spectrum of procedures that bridge the worlds of dermatologic oncology and aesthetic reconstruction. Her expertise in dermatology provides a foundational understanding of skin biology, enabling her to assess and treat a wide array of cutaneous conditions with an eye toward preserving natural tissue integrity. In the realm of skin cancer surgery, she has become a leading authority on the diagnosis, staging, and excision of basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma, employing evidence‑based guidelines to determine the most appropriate surgical margins while minimizing unnecessary tissue loss. Her meticulous approach to tumor removal ensures that oncologic clearance is achieved without compromising the aesthetic potential of the surrounding skin.

Central to Dr. Behshad’s surgical identity is her mastery of Mohs micrographic surgery—a technique that demands unparalleled precision, patience, and an intimate knowledge of histopathology. By performing layer‑by‑layer excisions with immediate microscopic examination, she is able to achieve cure rates exceeding 99% for high‑risk skin cancers, all while preserving maximal healthy tissue. The nuanced decision‑making required during Mohs procedures—such as determining the direction of tissue removal, interpreting frozen sections, and anticipating subclinical extensions—has refined her ability to think several steps ahead, a skill that translates seamlessly into her aesthetic reconstructive work. Moreover, her proficiency in reconstructive strategies—ranging from primary closures and local flaps to complex grafts—allows her to restore form and function in a manner that respects the natural contours and lines of the face and body.

Beyond oncologic and reconstructive surgery, Dr. Behshad has expanded her skill set to include a suite of aesthetic procedures that cater to the evolving desires of her patients. She performs facial rejuvenation techniques such as facelift, brow lift, and eyelid surgery, integrating her dermatologic insight to preserve skin quality and vascular health. Additionally, she offers body contouring, breast augmentation, and scar revision, employing advanced technologies like ultrasonic liposuction, autologous fat grafting, and laser‑assisted scar remodeling. Each aesthetic intervention is meticulously planned using three‑dimensional imaging and computer‑assisted design, ensuring that the final result aligns with the patient’s facial symmetry, proportionality, and personal aesthetic ideals. This comprehensive surgical portfolio underscores her commitment to delivering outcomes that are both oncologically safe and aesthetically gratifying.

Commitment to Patient Safety

Patient safety stands at the core of Dr. Behshad’s practice, a principle reinforced by her active involvement with leading professional societies. As a member of the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), she adheres to the Academy’s stringent standards for clinical competence, ethical conduct, and continuous education. Her participation in AAD’s peer‑reviewed conferences and workshops ensures that she remains current with the latest safety protocols, infection control measures, and evidence‑based treatment algorithms. This affiliation also provides her with a platform to contribute to guideline development, particularly in areas where dermatologic surgery intersects with aesthetic reconstruction, thereby influencing the broader medical community’s approach to patient safety.

Dr. Behshad’s dedication to excellence is further reflected in her leadership role within the American College of Mohs Surgery (ACMS). As a nominee for the ACMS Board of Directors, she is recognized not only for her surgical skill but also for her vision in advancing patient safety initiatives. In this capacity, she has championed the implementation of standardized operative checklists, real‑time intraoperative imaging, and rigorous postoperative monitoring protocols, all designed to minimize complications such as infection, hematoma, and unfavorable scar formation. Her advocacy for data‑driven quality improvement has led to the adoption of outcome registries that track long‑term patient satisfaction and safety metrics, providing invaluable feedback that informs both her own practice and the collective standards of the specialty.

Recognition of Dr. Behshad’s unwavering commitment to safety and excellence culminated in the prestigious Top Doctor Award from St. Louis Magazine, an accolade that highlights physicians who consistently deliver superior care, demonstrate compassionate bedside manner, and maintain an impeccable safety record. This award, determined through peer nominations and patient surveys, underscores her reputation as a trusted surgeon whose practice is synonymous with reliability and trust. By fostering a culture of transparency, rigorous pre‑operative assessment, and meticulous postoperative follow‑up, Dr. Behshad ensures that every patient’s journey—from consultation to recovery—is guided by the highest standards of safety and clinical integrity.

Why Patients Travel to Saint Louis, MO

Saint Louis, Missouri, has emerged as a vibrant hub for medical tourism, attracting patients from across the United States and beyond who seek the expertise of surgeons like Dr. Behshad. The city’s strategic location at the crossroads of major interstate highways and its well‑connected airport system make it easily accessible for both domestic and international travelers. Moreover, Saint Louis offers a unique blend of world‑class medical facilities, cutting‑edge research institutions, and a supportive regulatory environment that collectively create an ideal setting for high‑quality surgical care. Patients are drawn to the region’s reputation for innovative procedures, state‑of‑the‑art operating rooms, and an interdisciplinary network of specialists who collaborate seamlessly to address complex reconstructive and aesthetic challenges.

Beyond logistical advantages, Saint Louis provides an enriching cultural and recuperative experience that enhances the overall patient journey. The city’s renowned hospitality industry, featuring boutique hotels, gourmet dining, and scenic riverfront parks, offers a welcoming atmosphere for patients and their families during the pre‑operative and postoperative phases. Additionally, the region’s mild climate and abundance of green spaces create an environment conducive to healing, allowing patients to engage in gentle walks, restorative yoga, and other low‑impact activities that support recovery. This holistic approach—combining medical excellence with a nurturing environment—ensures that patients feel both physically cared for and emotionally supported throughout their treatment course.

Finally, the reputation of Dr. Behshad herself serves as a compelling magnet for patients seeking top‑tier plastic and dermatologic surgery. Her track record of delivering exceptional outcomes, coupled with her transparent communication style and patient‑first ethos, cultivates trust and confidence among those who travel considerable distances for her expertise. Word‑of‑mouth referrals, peer endorsements, and the accolades she has earned within the medical community reinforce the perception that Saint Louis is not merely a destination for surgery, but a center of excellence where patients can expect personalized, safe, and transformative care. In choosing Saint Louis, patients are not only accessing world‑leading surgical talent but also embracing a supportive community dedicated to their long‑term health and aesthetic aspirations.