Focus on Gregory Branham, MD

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What happened in the course of schooling to make you choose your specialty?

While in medical school, I became fascinated by the complexity of the face because it houses all of the special senses such as sight, hearing and taste. This naturally led me to Otolaryngolgoy as a specialty. The face also defines our identity—it is how we are recognized. The artistry of facial plastic surgery, both in the reconstructive and cosmetic surgery, led me to this as a specialty

Which aspect of your practice is most fulfilling?

Every patient comes to our practice with a unique set of needs. Some of my patients come because of the need for reconstruction after the removal of cancer on their face or neck. Others come for elective rejuvenation surgery or enhancements.

I find fulfillment in helping all of these patients both medically and emotionally in working through their particular situation. The stakes are always high when dealing with facial surgery and it is rewarding to help my patients through this time in their lives, whether with elective cosmetic surgery or reconstructive facial surgery.

Dr. Branham and family

Where are you from originally?

I am originally from South Carolina, but I have called St. Louis my home since 1985. I came here initially for my residency training, but stayed because of the many academic opportunities available in St. Louis. I have always been committed to academic medicine and I love the innovations and mental stimulation associated with the teaching and education environment.

My wife, Cindy, is from St. Louis and that is another reason we decided to raise our family here. When she is not working outside the home as a school nurse, we enjoy cooking, travel and relaxing with our three children.

Which particular award or achievement is the most gratifying to you?

I like to teach and take care of patients, so there were actually two awards that meant a lot to me in terms of my practice. My former residents at St. Louis University Hospital voted me the Teacher of the Year early in my career and that validated my love for teaching. Then in 2002 I was listed as one of America’s Top Doctors and as a "Best Doctors in America" for patient care and medical expertise. (Dr. Branham has been included in both lists every year since.)

What types of cases do you see?

Most of my practice is cosmetic surgery. The most common procedure I perform is rhinoplasty, but I do a considerable amount of aging-face surgeries, which include facelifts, eyelid surgery and brow lifts. Another smaller part of my practice includes reconstruction surgery after the removal of skin cancer and some trauma cases, as well.

Do you have a unique position within the community or a leadership role at WUSM that you would like to share?

Within Washington University I am the chief of the division of facial plastic and reconstructive surgery in the department of otolaryngology. I have just completed a textbook on facial soft tissue reconstruction that culminates 20 years of practice and experience in this aspect of my practice. I am excited about this contribution to the discipline of facial plastic and reconstructive surgery. This is particularly gratifying to me because it allows me to extend my ability to teach to others.

What is the best advice you have ever received?

My mother played a significant role in my life and instilled in me the value of hard work and getting a good education. She taught me that we are all created in God’s image and deserve respect and dignity no matter where we find ourselves. I feel that working hard and respecting others is good advice to follow.

What lifestyle change could most benefit our health?

The biggest change that you can make that will impact your appearance – don’t smoke and use an appropriate sunscreen on a regular basis. You should definitely avoid tanning beds.

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