GROUNDBREAKING SURGEON

KATHERINE KOPKASH, M.D. FACS, is the Director of Oncoplastic Breast Cancer Surgery for Endeavor Health and Clinical Associate Professor at the University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine. She earned a bachelor’s degree in biology at the University of Illinois before completing her medical school and surgery residency at Rush University Medical Center. Dr. Kopkash also did a fellowship in Oncoplastic Breast Surgery at the University of Southern California. “I have been in practice for over a decade as an academic breast cancer surgeon and my research interests focus on innovation in breast cancer surgery,” she explains. “I am the Principal Investigator for two ground-breaking national clinical trials that are using the robotic approach for nipple-sparing mastectomies and reconstruction.”

Most rewarding part of what you do? I truly enjoy educating my patients on all of their options and then helping them choose the right treatment plan that honors their health goals. Nothing is more rewarding than performing a cancer surgery with an excellent oncologic outcome that provides my patient with a beautiful cosmetic result.

Definition of success? Success is living a life you can be proud of. For me that means doing good work, surrounding myself with people I love, and continuously growing and improving as a human. Best piece of advice for anyone starting out? You only get one life so make it worth it. There is no shame in trying your best and failing. Life is such a great adventure and we never know what the future holds. Don’t be afraid to make bold moves!

Traits you think great leaders possess? A great leader has a clear vision for the future and they encourage their team to function at the highest level to work towards achieving that goal.

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