Gregory R.D. Evans, MD, FACS

Gregory R.D. Evans, MD

Orange County Plastic Surgeon

Dr. Gregory Evans is a surgeon best known for performing cancer reconstruction procedures, including free tissue transfer for head, neck and breast. He also specializes in the full spectrum of plastic surgery, with a focus on cosmetic surgery for the face, eyes, abdomen, breasts and body.

In a given week, Dr. Evans performs a variety of reconstructive and cosmetic procedures, working on every part of the body. Using a combination of innovation and artistry, he creates beautiful, individualized results for our patients at UC Irvine.

In both reconstructive and cosmetic surgery, the doctor’s breadth of knowledge serves him well. “Solving complex issues in reconstructive surgery has made me a better plastic surgeon in general,” he explains.

“I deal with quality of life issues. It’s both a privilege and a responsibility.”

Every patient who comes to UC Irvine is looking for something unique. During consultations, Dr. Evans stays open and observant, answering questions and trying to understand a patient’s motivations and goals. In the case of reconstruction after cancer, the goal is always to restore form as well as function. The patient’s appearance is important, of course, but so too is their ease of movement and ability to enjoy life.

“I prefer an educated patient – one who has done some homework before we meet”

Dr. Evans says that patients today are savvy; they often know what they want and how they want it done. It’s a great advantage when someone has done their research, because it means they are going to take responsibility for their own care before and after the procedure.

Of course, there is a downside with all of the hype and misinformation out there. “It’s my job to try to clear up the myths,” Dr. Evans says, “and make sure each patient is clear about the benefits and risks.”

Most of Dr. Evans’ patients come from word-of-mouth referrals. He builds a relationship with each patient. Then, through written questionnaires, notes from referring physicians, and a candid conversation, he determines if he can recommend a procedure. “I recommend what I think is best,” he says. “I’m open, honest and really want to partner with my patients.”

Although Dr. Evans spends 70-80 hours a week in his practice, he also spends plenty of time with his wife of 25 years and their two sons, who are both in college. He is a runner, mountain biker, skier and occasional golfer. Travel is important to Dr. Evans, for both work and leisure. He says he loves to integrate himself into a different culture, learn about international medical trends, and discover new ways to solve surgical problems.

Current Position

Dr. Gregory Evans is Professor of Surgery and Biomedical Engineering, and Chief of the Aesthetic and Plastic Surgery Institute. Dr. Evans is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and is currently director of the American Board of Plastic Surgery.

Education

Dr. Evans is a medical graduate of the University of Southern California and completed his plastic surgery residency at The Johns Hopkins Hospital.