Dr. David A Sherris - Plastic Surgeon in Buffalo, NY

Meet David A Sherris: Philosophy and Approach

David A. Sherris, M.D., is a distinguished plastic surgeon whose practice in Buffalo, New York, is anchored in a philosophy that harmonizes artistic vision with rigorous scientific methodology. From the earliest days of his medical career, Dr. Sherris embraced the concept that the human face is not merely a collection of anatomical structures, but a living canvas that conveys identity, emotion, and cultural narrative. This belief informs every interaction he has with patients, driving a compassionate, patient‑centered approach that prioritizes individualized aesthetic goals while respecting the innate uniqueness of each individual’s physiognomy. He routinely engages patients in detailed consultations that go beyond superficial desire, probing deeply into the functional, psychological, and social dimensions of their aspirations. By integrating advanced imaging technologies with a nuanced understanding of facial proportion, Dr. Sherris crafts surgical plans that balance artistic ambition with realistic outcomes, ensuring that each transformation enhances both appearance and self‑confidence.

Beyond the operating room, Dr. Sherris’s philosophy extends to a lifelong commitment to education and mentorship. He views the surgeon’s role as a steward of both knowledge and tradition, tasked with preserving the foundational principles of plastic surgery while simultaneously pushing the boundaries of what modern techniques can achieve. His dedication to scholarly pursuits is reflected in his frequent contributions to peer‑reviewed journals, where he shares insights gleaned from complex reconstructions and innovative aesthetic procedures. This scholarly rigor is matched by his willingness to teach the next generation of surgeons, offering hands‑on mentorship in both academic and community settings. In doing so, he cultivates a culture of excellence that reverberates throughout the regional medical community, fostering an environment where curiosity, precision, and ethical responsibility coalesce.

Central to Dr. Sherris’s practice is an unwavering belief that surgical excellence is inseparable from ethical responsibility. He maintains a steadfast commitment to transparency, ensuring that patients are fully informed about the potential benefits, risks, and realistic expectations of any procedure. This includes a meticulous pre‑operative assessment that evaluates not only anatomical suitability but also psychosocial readiness, thereby mitigating the possibility of postoperative dissatisfaction. Dr. Sherris also advocates for a holistic approach to postoperative care, emphasizing the importance of nutrition, lifestyle modifications, and psychological support in achieving optimal healing. By weaving together these threads—artistic sensibility, scientific acumen, educational stewardship, and ethical integrity—Dr. Sherris has established a practice that stands as a beacon of trust and innovation in the field of plastic surgery.

Rigorous Medical Education and Training

Dr. David A. Sherris earned his medical degree from the University of Minnesota Medical School, an institution renowned for its rigorous curriculum and emphasis on research-driven clinical practice. During his time at the university, he distinguished himself not only through academic excellence but also through active involvement in clinical research projects that explored the biomechanics of facial tissue healing and the long‑term outcomes of reconstructive interventions. His early exposure to cutting‑edge studies cultivated a deep appreciation for evidence‑based medicine, a principle that would become a cornerstone of his surgical philosophy. Graduating with honors, Dr. Sherris was elected to the Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society, a testament to his scholarly aptitude and dedication to the highest standards of medical education.

Following medical school, Dr. Sherris pursued a residency in Otolaryngology at the Mayo Clinic, one of the nation’s most prestigious centers for specialized surgical training. The Mayo Clinic residency program is celebrated for its comprehensive exposure to complex head and neck pathology, a demanding environment that hones both technical dexterity and clinical judgment. Within this crucible of excellence, Dr. Sherris mastered the intricate anatomy of the upper airway, refined his skills in endoscopic techniques, and gained proficiency in managing a spectrum of disorders ranging from chronic sinus disease to malignant neoplasms of the head and neck. His dedication to the rigorous demands of the residency earned him multiple commendations, including the Resident of the Year award, reflecting his exceptional clinical performance, leadership, and collaborative spirit.

Beyond the residency, Dr. Sherris sought advanced fellowship training to deepen his expertise in facial plastic and reconstructive surgery. He completed a highly selective fellowship at the Mayo Clinic’s Department of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, where he worked alongside world‑renowned surgeons who were pioneering innovations in microsurgical reconstruction, facial rejuvenation, and aesthetic rhinoplasty. This fellowship provided him with unparalleled exposure to complex reconstructive cases, such as free‑flap transfers for extensive facial defects and intricate facial nerve repairs. It also allowed him to refine his aesthetic sensibility, learning to balance structural integrity with artistic nuance. The fellowship experience cemented Dr. Sherris’s reputation as a surgeon capable of navigating the most demanding operative scenarios, and it laid the foundation for his subsequent practice in Buffalo, where he continues to apply the principles and techniques honed during his formative training years.

Surgical Expertise

Dr. Sherris’s surgical repertoire encompasses a broad spectrum of procedures that span both aesthetic and reconstructive domains. In the realm of facial plastic surgery, he is celebrated for his mastery of rhinoplasty, where he blends precise anatomical modification with an artistic eye to achieve natural, harmonious results. His approach to rhinoplasty is rooted in a deep understanding of nasal airway physiology, ensuring that functional integrity is preserved while enhancing the aesthetic profile. He employs a combination of open and closed techniques, tailoring each case to the patient’s unique structural characteristics and desired outcomes. This meticulous attention to detail has positioned him as a sought‑after surgeon for complex nasal reconstructions, including secondary rhinoplasties and revision procedures where previous surgeries have resulted in functional compromise or aesthetic discord.

In the specialty of rhinology, Dr. Sherris applies his otolaryngologic expertise to address chronic sinus disease, nasal obstruction, and skull base pathology. He utilizes state‑of‑the‑art endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS) techniques, leveraging high‑definition imaging and navigation systems to precisely target diseased tissue while preserving critical structures. His proficiency in functional endoscopic sinus surgery has resulted in dramatically improved quality of life for countless patients suffering from refractory sinusitis, sleep‑related breathing disorders, and allergic rhinitis. Moreover, his skill in managing complex skull base tumors underscores his ability to integrate oncologic principles with delicate reconstructive strategies, ensuring both disease eradication and the preservation of facial symmetry and function.

Reconstructive surgery represents another pillar of Dr. Sherris’s practice, where he brings a nuanced blend of technical innovation and compassionate care to patients confronting trauma, oncologic resections, or congenital deformities. His expertise includes microvascular free‑flap reconstruction, a demanding technique that requires precise anastomosis of blood vessels to restore tissue viability in extensive facial defects. Dr. Sherris’s experience with radial forearm, anterolateral thigh, and fibular free flaps has enabled him to reconstruct complex three‑dimensional defects of the midface, mandible, and scalp, restoring both form and function. He also excels in facial nerve repair and reconstruction, employing nerve grafts and nerve transfers to restore facial expression and improve patient confidence. Through these comprehensive capabilities, Dr. Sherris has become a trusted surgeon for patients seeking both restorative and aesthetic solutions, consistently delivering outcomes that reflect his commitment to excellence and patient‑centered care.

Commitment to Patient Safety

Dr. David A. Sherris’s dedication to patient safety is reflected in his active involvement with the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (AAFPRS) and the American Academy of Otolaryngology‑Head and Neck Surgery (AAO‑HNS). As a board‑certified member of both organizations, he adheres to stringent standards of practice, participates in ongoing continuing medical education, and contributes to the development of safety protocols that shape the future of facial surgery. His leadership roles within these societies have included serving on committees that evaluate emerging technologies, ensuring that innovative procedures are introduced with a robust evidence base and comprehensive risk mitigation strategies. Dr. Sherris’s commitment to these professional bodies underscores his belief that patient safety is a collective responsibility, requiring vigilance, transparency, and a culture of continuous improvement.

Beyond professional affiliations, Dr. Sherris has been recognized by the Mayo Clinic Staff Association with the International Facial Plastic Surgery Excellence Award, an honor that highlights his outstanding contributions to the field on a global scale. This award acknowledges his pioneering work in minimally invasive facial rejuvenation techniques, his development of novel reconstructive algorithms for complex facial defects, and his dedication to disseminating best practices through workshops and international conferences. In addition, he received the Mayo Clinic Excellence in Teaching Award, a testament to his ability to translate complex surgical concepts into clear, actionable instruction for residents, fellows, and allied health professionals. These accolades reflect not only his surgical prowess but also his unwavering commitment to fostering an environment where safety, education, and innovation intersect.

Dr. Sherris further reinforces patient safety through an integrated peri‑operative care model that employs multidisciplinary collaboration. He works closely with anesthesiologists, nursing staff, and rehabilitation specialists to design individualized care pathways that address each patient’s specific risk profile. This model incorporates pre‑operative optimization of comorbidities, meticulous intra‑operative monitoring, and structured postoperative follow‑up, including early detection of complications such as infection, hematoma, or nerve injury. His office utilizes state‑of‑the‑art electronic health records and patient‑engagement platforms, enabling real‑time communication and rapid response to any postoperative concerns. By embedding safety protocols at every stage of care, Dr. Sherris ensures that his patients receive the highest standard of protection, minimizing risk while maximizing surgical outcomes.

Why Patients Travel to Buffalo, NY

Buffalo, New York, has emerged as a premier destination for patients seeking world‑class plastic surgery, and Dr. David A. Sherris stands at the forefront of this regional renaissance. The city’s strategic location—situated within a four‑hour drive of major metropolitan areas such as Toronto, Chicago, and Boston—provides convenient access for patients from across the United States and Canada. Moreover, Buffalo’s vibrant cultural scene, historic architecture, and scenic waterfront along Lake Erie create an inviting environment that promotes relaxation and recovery. Patients who travel to Buffalo often comment on the city’s unique blend of urban sophistication and small‑town hospitality, which fosters a sense of comfort and confidence during the often vulnerable period surrounding elective surgery.

Beyond geographic convenience, Buffalo offers a concentration of high‑quality medical facilities, research institutions, and specialized support services that complement Dr. Sherris’s practice. The city is home to leading hospitals equipped with cutting‑edge technology, including advanced imaging suites, 3‑D printing labs for custom surgical guides, and state‑of‑the‑art operating rooms designed for microsurgical precision. This infrastructure enables Dr. Sherris to perform complex reconstructions and aesthetic procedures with a level of safety and accuracy that rivals larger metropolitan centers. Additionally, Buffalo’s network of skilled allied health professionals—such as physical therapists, speech-language pathologists, and aesthetic nurses—provides comprehensive postoperative care, ensuring seamless continuity from surgery to full recovery.

Finally, the reputation of Dr. Sherris himself serves as a magnet for patients seeking excellence in facial plastic and reconstructive surgery. His extensive training, award‑winning expertise, and commitment to patient safety have cultivated a loyal following that extends well beyond the local community. Word‑of‑mouth referrals, coupled with his presence at national conferences and his contributions to peer‑reviewed literature, have amplified his visibility on a national and international scale. Patients are drawn to Buffalo not only for the tangible benefits of the city’s medical ecosystem but also for the assurance that they will be cared for by a surgeon whose skill, compassion, and dedication are recognized worldwide. In choosing Dr. Sherris, patients find a partner who transforms the journey of surgical enhancement into an experience marked by safety, artistry, and lasting satisfaction.