Bria R. Meyer, MD

Inspired by her mother, an emergency nurse, Bria Meyer, MD, knew at an early age that she wanted to pursue a career in medicine.

"I would ask her stories when she came home about what problems she saw," Dr. Meyer said. "I wanted to be able to help people like that ñ be able to make a difference in people's lives."

She eventually discovered a fascination for general surgery and the hands-on skill it required. But it wasn't until her third year of medical school ñ when she was introduced to plastic and reconstructive surgery ñ that she chose her specialty.

"I had no idea that plastic surgery encompassed so much," said Dr. Meyer, who sees patients at Methodist Physicians Clinic. "The field is so wide. In residency, I remember doing hand surgeries, and then we'd go do a cleft. There would be burns, breast reconstruction, even cosmetic surgery. I was just amazed at everything it covered."

And the ability to help a person heal physically, mentally and emotionally is the most fulfilling aspect of her job.

"Plastic surgery is a lot more than just fixing the outside, whether you're providing a reconstructive service from trauma or cancer," she said. "Even the patient who wants a cosmetic procedure done is coming to you for a reason. And seeing your patients more confident in their own skin is definitely gratifying."

Dr. Meyer is humbled to be part of a health system with such a patient-centered focus. She strives to make sure each of her patients experience The Meaning of Care.

"When they walk out the door, I want them to feel like they were listened to ñ that all their questions were answered. I want them to feel like they're in the best hands possible."

Whether she's gardening, reading or relaxing at her family's lake house in Wisconsin, Dr. Meyer enjoys spending most of her free time outside.

View before and after photos of Methodist plastic and reconstructive surgery patients.