Cindy Ngo, M.D.

What this award means: To be recognized by the same faculty who shaped my training and who are leaders in the field is truly humbling. It affirms years of hard work and commitment to plastic surgery, reinforcing my dedication to advancing the specialty. The award is also a reflection of the family, friends, and mentors who have supported me.

Mentor comment: I was interviewing college students and Cindy immediately stood out with her poise, humor, and raw intelligence. Within five minutes, I had written “accept” and invited her to consider plastic surgery if she attended UTSW. We have worked together since her first day of medical school. She has been a steady companion in the operating room, worked on numerous research projects, and published several papers. Her industry, enthusiasm, and professionalism are going to result in an exceptional career as a plastic surgeon. – James Thornton, M.D., Professor of Plastic Surgery

Background and family: I was born and raised in Richardson, Texas, as the youngest of three children. My parents emigrated from Vietnam for greater opportunity and taught us the value of education, hard work, and keeping our word. Their journey laid the foundation for everything I have been able to pursue. I have two older brothers. One works in data science. The other is a proud UTSW alum who completed medical school and family medicine residency here.

College: I earned my Bachelor of Science in biology from UT Dallas. During college, I worked as an EMT, chemistry teaching assistant, and taekwondo instructor. I was a Green Fellow in the lab of Rolf Brekken, Ph.D., Professor of Surgery, Pharmacology, and in the Hamon Center for Therapeutic Oncology Research, studying breast cancer metastasis. My experience working with Dr. Brekken, defined by his steadfast mentorship, confirmed that UTSW was the right place for me.

What led to your career path: I initially thought I would become a surgical oncologist. But during my medical school interview, I met Dr. Thornton, who has been my mentor ever since. Dr. Thornton’s practice focuses on facial reconstruction following cancer resection, and it was the first time I truly saw the aftermath of surgical oncology – the part devoted to putting people back together. After operating with him every week during my first year, I was hooked. There is nothing more gratifying than using hands-on skills to care for patients in a way that restores not just anatomy, but also dignity, hope, and their sense of self.

UTSW activities: I serve as co-President of the Gold Humanism Honor Society and spearheaded research in complex nasal and facial reconstruction. I am also involved in teaching and mentorship, serving as President of the UTSW American Medical Women’s Association, volunteering with first-generation middle school students through United to Serve, and advising students in the Plastic Surgery Research Council.

What words describe your UTSW experience: Rigorous, comprehensive, rewarding, and the honor of a lifetime.

One tip for medical school success: Find a good mentor – someone who is honest, reliable, and genuinely invested in your growth. UTSW has no shortage of them!

Favorite way to relieve stress: I enjoy long walks on the Katy Trail, country swing dancing, and kickboxing.

Surprising fact: I am a second-degree black belt and practiced taekwondo for 12 years.

Future plans: I am overjoyed to stay at UT Southwestern for residency and am interested in pursuing a fellowship in microsurgery or craniofacial surgery. Ultimately, I envision a career in academic plastic surgery, where I can teach and mentor medical students and residents. I hope to pay it forward, just as my mentors have done for me.

About the award: The Plastic Surgery Award is presented by the Department of Plastic Surgery to a student who has exemplified excellence in clinical care, integrity, compassion, ingenuity, and scholarly activity.