Robert D. Foster

MD FACS

Chief, Plastic and Reconstructive Service, Mt. Zion Hospital
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

Conditions I specialize in

Where I see patients (2)

    My reviews

    4.9

    Overall Experience
    69 Ratings
    About our process
    Dec 18, 2024
    Dr Foster is a truly outstanding surgeon. He is amazingly knowledgeable and skilled. He patiently listens and clearly responds to my concerns. He is so warm and kind. Among surgeons I have dealt with he is way up in the very top tier in all regards.
    Dec 08, 2024
    Dr. Foster is an excellent doctor who always shows true care and concern. During this video consultation he listened carefully, asked appropriate questions, and clearly explained my options. I greatly appreciated his expert advice. living a distance away from UCSF, I would not have had access to his expertise without this video appointment. Thank you!
    Aug 23, 2024
    Dr Foster is the best!
    Aug 15, 2024
    Grateful to be treated by Dr Foster.
    Aug 10, 2024
    Dr. Foster is an excellent plastic surgeon who listens and tries to provide the desired result (even if it may be a bit outside of his comfort zone [not anything said, just what I felt]).
    Mar 13, 2024
    A compassionate surgeon, informative and clear about the procedures to be used. An excellent visit.
    Mar 06, 2024
    I am so grateful for the ease and comfort of my care. I am grateful of the team I have and how they listen and respond to me.
    Dec 15, 2023
    Very happy working with Dr. Foster and his MA (PA?). They were both considerate, approachable, kind and didn't rush me with all my questions. Much appreciated.
    Dec 07, 2023
    Dr. Foster and his team are excellent. They are very caring, provide clear explanations and take time to answer questions.
    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.

    Selected research

    Contact me

    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.
    This provider is employed by a medical group affiliated with UCSF.

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