Dr. Regina Rodman’s professional path stretches from Chicago’s urban pulse to Dubai’s international crossroads, ultimately finding its heart in Houston. Her story, as shared with Dr. Angela Sturm, is a testament to resilience, innovation, and the evolving landscape of female leadership in medicine.
Dr. Rodman’s early academic pursuits in anthropology and social work laid the foundation for her empathetic approach to patient care. After completing medical school at Rush University in Chicago, she trained in one of the busiest trauma centers in Houston, mastering both soft tissue and complex craniofacial surgery. Her advanced fellowship at SUNY Upstate in New York set her apart as one of the few surgeons globally with expertise in both bony and soft tissue facial procedures.
Launching a practice in Houston, Dr. Rodman quickly became a leader in gender-affirming facial surgery, helping patients align their appearance with their identity. Her work in facial feminization and masculinization has changed lives, offering patients not only aesthetic transformation but also a sense of authenticity and belonging. She approaches each consultation with the open-ended prompt, “Tell me about yourself,” using her background in ethnographic interviewing to understand patient values and goals.
Expanding her reach, Dr. Rodman established a practice in Dubai, bringing advanced facial plastic surgery techniques to the Middle East, Australia, and Europe. Her focus on permanent, natural results—especially in jaw, chin, and forehead contouring—has drawn patients from around the world seeking lasting change without constant maintenance. She emphasizes surgical artistry, blending medical precision with a creative eye to achieve harmony and balance in facial features.
Throughout her journey, Dr. Rodman has navigated the unique challenges faced by female practice owners. She and Dr. Sturm discuss the importance of establishing professional boundaries, especially when personal and professional circles overlap. As women leading their own practices, they address the pressure to perform at the highest level while setting clear expectations for staff and patients. Both highlight the necessity of self-driven opportunities and the ability to adapt quickly, particularly when opening and sustaining a practice during unpredictable events like a global pandemic.
Cultural experiences have shaped Dr. Rodman’s approach to medicine. Practicing internationally, she adapts to diverse patient needs and healthcare systems, bringing a global perspective to her work in Houston and Dubai. Her leadership extends beyond the operating room—she writes academic articles, teaches surgeons worldwide, and advocates for high-quality, inclusive care.
Dr. Rodman’s story is one of persistence, vision, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. Her journey demonstrates that success in medicine requires not only technical skill but also resilience, adaptability, and a commitment to empowering both patients and colleagues. Through her work, she redefines what it means to be a leader in facial plastic surgery, inspiring the next generation to carve their own path—wherever it may lead.
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