Featured Alumni:
Dr. Robert M. Kimmel
Dr. Robert M. Kimmel, Jr., MD
Saint James School of Medicine is proud to celebrate the achievements of our alumnus, Dr. Robert M. Kimmel, Jr., a dedicated physician who has built an impressive career in plastic and reconstructive surgery.
Dr. Kimmel earned his medical degree from Saint James School of Medicine in 2016 and went on to pursue extensive postgraduate training. He completed his General Surgery residency at Quinnipiac University’s Frank H. Netter School of Medicine at Waterbury Hospital, where he was recognized for his commitment to teaching with the Resident Teacher of the Year Award in 2018 and 2019. He then continued his training in Plastic Surgery at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center in Chattanooga, serving as Chief Resident in 2024.
In November 2025, Dr. Kimmel achieved board certification in Plastic Surgery through the American Board of Plastic Surgery, a milestone he is particularly proud of in his professional journey.
Today, Dr. Kimmel practices plastic and reconstructive surgery with expertise spanning breast cosmetic and reconstructive procedures, extremity reconstruction, hand surgery, facial trauma repair, skin cancer reconstruction, and aesthetic surgery of the face and body. His work reflects a strong dedication to restoring both function and confidence for his patients.
From Student to Plastic Surgeon
Dr. Robert Kimmel didn’t start medical school knowing he would become a plastic surgeon.
His interest in surgery developed over time, especially during clinical rotations, where he was exposed to reconstructive procedures and more complex cases. That’s where things clicked.
What drew him to plastic and reconstructive surgery wasn’t just the technical side, but the impact it has on patients. It’s a field where you’re not only treating a condition, but helping restore confidence and quality of life.
The decision to pursue plastic surgery wasn’t one big moment that made the difference. It was a combination of things done consistently over time.
He focused on:
- staying disciplined with studying, especially during board prep
- taking rotations seriously and using them to learn, not just pass
- choosing programs and environments where he could be seen and remembered
- building relationships, not just sending applications
One thing that stood out was doing rotations at places he was genuinely interested in. That gave him the chance to show who he is beyond a CV.
For Students Thinking About Competitive Specialties
Plastic surgery is competitive. There’s no way around that.
But it’s not out of reach.
His experience shows that:
- you don’t need to have your specialty figured out from day one
- your direction can change once you get real clinical exposure
- consistency matters more than trying to be perfect
And maybe most importantly, opportunities often come from people knowing you, not just reviewing your application.
While test scores matter, they don’t tell the full story.
Being physically present in a program, working with a team, and showing your work ethic can go a long way. It’s often what separates candidates who look similar on paper.
For Dr. Kimmel, those real interactions played a big role in moving forward.
Advancing the Field
Beyond clinical practice, Dr. Kimmel has contributed to surgical research, with publications in the Annals of Plastic Surgery and presentations of quality improvement projects during his residency training. He also serves as a consultant and key opinion leader with Aroa Biosurgery.
Dr. Kimmel remains active in the professional community as a member of the American Medical Association, the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, and the Southeastern Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons.
Beyond the Operating Room
Dr. Kimmel’s journey reflects the commitment, perseverance, and excellence that define the Saint James School of Medicine community, and we are proud to see our graduates making meaningful contributions to the field of medicine.
Outside of his professional life, Dr. Kimmel enjoys spending time with his wife and their three children. His personal interests include golf, traveling, skiing, and enjoying the outdoors with his family.
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