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Robert D. Foster

MD FACS

Chief, Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
Plastic surgeon

Dr. Robert D. Foster is chief of plastic surgery and director of the breast reconstruction service at the Carol Franc Buck Breast Care Center. He performs more than 300 breast reconstructions a year as well as a broad range of other reconstructive and cosmetic surgeries.

Foster's research endeavors include studies to evaluate breast reconstruction techniques and studies to develop methods for helping patients through the decision-making process during breast cancer diagnosis and treatment. He has been recognized nationally and internationally for his research in transplantation tolerance and molecular biology.

Foster earned his medical degree at State University of New York Health Science Center. He completed a general surgery residency at New York Medical College and a plastic surgery residency at UCSF, where he has worked since 1997.

Foster is a fellow of the American College of Surgeons and a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. He is the author of more than 75 publications and a guest reviewer for seven scientific journals.

  • Education

    State University of New York Health Science Center, MD, 1990

  • Residencies

    New York Medical College, General Surgery, 1995

  • Fellowships

    UCSF Medical Center, Plastic Surgery, 1999

  • Board Certifications

    Plastic Surgery, American Board of Plastic Surgery

  • Academic Title

    Professor

Where I see patients (2)

    My reviews

    4.8

    Overall Experience
    91 Ratings
    About our process
    Nov 04, 2023
    Dr. Foster did an excellent job of explaining the entire surgery to me which hadn't been explained by others involved. He also let me know what to expect/what would be happening in the pre-op area on the day of surgery. I very much appreciate this information as I've never had a surgery and wasn't aware of what to expect. His approach is simple and provides calm assurance that I very much appreciated. I felt as if he partnered with me in the process. He also understood my wishes about the surgery.
    Sep 12, 2023
    I received the best care at this facility that anyone could have asked for. Thank you all for everything. 'very good' should be 'excellent' instead.
    Aug 31, 2023
    I met with Dr. Foster twice prior to my surgery and was impressed with his explanation of how the surgery would be performed. Once the surgeon adjusted what she would be doing based on the most recent MRI Dr. Foster called me to update what he would be doing. I've never had such attentive and detailed care. I went into my surgery with less concern.
    Aug 29, 2023
    Dr. Foster is an artist as well as a scientist.
    Jul 05, 2023
    Dr Foster and his medical staff are wonderful. I cannot thank them enough
    Mar 28, 2023
    From start to finish my doctor Robert foster listened attentively reassured me he really more than exceeded my expectations as a surgeon I'm very grateful to him and all his staff That were available for my care.
    Dec 27, 2022
    Dr Foster and team are the best.
    Dec 17, 2022
    Only concern is after visit notes included some concerns not discussed during visit.
    Jul 30, 2022
    Dr Foster is great!!! I feel very lucky to have him as my physician. :)
    May 03, 2022
    I couldn't ask for better service from the doctor and the staff at UCSF. They are all marvelous.
    Apr 04, 2022
    Dr. Foster is very kind and supportive. He listens when I talk to him.
    Mar 18, 2022
    Dr. Foster was very thorough with his explanations and is very easy to question and understand.
    Feb 10, 2022
    Beyond the beyond!
    Please check with your health insurance plan regarding coverage for this type of care. Not all providers at UCSF are covered by every insurance plan.

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