Athens, Ga., Feb. 19, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — University Cancer & Blood Center (UCBC), a leading oncology and hematology practice in Northeast Georgia, is delighted to announce that the acclaimed breast surgeon, Dr. Ashley Ray, has obtained her certification in oncoplastic breast surgery. This certification combines breast cancer treatment with aesthetic restoration.
Dr. Ray explains, “The main reason I chose to pursue this certification was to enhance my surgical skills, become more proficient, and continuously improve the cosmetic outcomes for women fighting breast cancer.”
As a certified oncoplastic breast surgeon, Dr. Ray specializes in performing breast cancer surgery integrated with plastic surgery techniques. This is to provide optimal cancer treatment while striving to maintain the natural appearance of the breast. After removing breast cancer tissue, she immediately proceeds to reconstruct and enhance the cosmetic appearance of the breast. She does this by using plastic surgery maneuvers to reshape the breast and minimize visible deformities.
Dr. Ray received her oncoplastic breast surgery mastery certification through the National Consortium of Breast Centers. This certification requires prior training in plastic surgery and the application of those skills. The mastery course offers additional in – depth training, more advanced approaches, and a review of the more basic methods. Additionally, the course prepares surgeons for the development of even more advanced techniques in the future.
A fellowship – trained breast surgeon, Dr. Ray earned her Doctor of Medicine degree from Mercer University School of Medicine in Macon, Georgia. She completed her residency at the University of Mississippi Medical Center in Jackson, Mississippi. During her residency, she received a range of honors and recognitions, including being appointed chief resident.
She completed her breast surgical oncology fellowship at Baylor Scott & White Health in Dallas, Texas. In 2022, upon joining the UCBC team, Dr. Ray became the first female, fellowship – trained breast surgeon to practice in Athens.
Dr. Ray says, “The course helps us think about how to access tumors located anywhere in the breast while achieving a good cosmetic result, as well as ways to ensure symmetry of the other breast. It also teaches us approaches that can improve outcomes for women undergoing reconstruction with plastic surgeons. The course also provides some guidance on how to perform these reconstruction options for patients or areas that may not have access to plastic surgeons.”
Dr. Ray’s oncoplastic breast surgery certification reflects UCBC’s commitment to assembling a team of experts who are constantly striving to enrich their skills and knowledge for the benefit of patients. It serves as yet another reason for patients to choose UCBC with confidence.
University Cancer & Blood Center has been the leading cancer and hematology treatment center in Northeast Georgia for over 40 years. Our highly skilled medical professionals, with backgrounds including work at the nation’s leading cancer centers, provide every patient with the most advanced cancer care available in an atmosphere of care and compassion.
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