Deanna C. Menapace, M.D.

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SUMMARY

The research of Deanna C. Menapace, M.D., involves the exploration and education of facial plastic and reconstructive surgery. She has particular expertise in anti-aging medicine, medical devices, regenerative medicine, soft tissue histology and the biomechanics of the face. Clinically, her research also focuses on "bridging the gap" between healthcare professional and patient expectations to improve individual satisfaction and experience.

Focus areas

• Regenerative medicine. Dr. Menapace and her colleagues at Mayo Clinic Cosmetic Center study the safety and efficacy of regenerative therapies in anti-aging and aesthetic cosmetic surgery. This includes using stem cells, extracellular vesicles and other modalities to renew skin and restore hair.
• Medical devices. Dr. Menapace studies new technologies and is in the forefront of anti-aging techniques. She collaborates with Mayo Clinic Ventures and businesses on new concepts for in-office and intraoperative treatment delivery systems. This alliance allows Dr. Menapace to be at the vanguard of new techniques in facial plastic surgery.
• Patient satisfaction. Cosmetic surgery greatly improves the lives of patients. It is essential to study these outcomes. Dr. Menapace and her colleagues have developed assessment tools to objectively measure outcomes of surgery. Dr. Menapace studies how consumerism plays a part in the decision to seek facial plastic surgery.
• Nasal senescence. Investigating the histology of cartilage helps Dr. Menapace in understanding why some people are more likely to develop nasal obstruction than others.
• 3D modeling. Dr. Menapace and her colleagues have created a computer model based on micro-CT scans of anatomical specimens of the nose and septum. This allows simulated biomechanical testing to identify the most stable surgical technique for rebuilding the nasal septum, also called septoplasty.

Significance to patient care

As a surgeon at both Mayo Clinic Head and Neck Surgery and at Mayo Clinic Cosmetic Center, Dr. Menapace has the opportunity to meld both of these areas of medicine. She believes that patient expectations are at the heart of her research. An excellent end result is often defined by a mutual agreement between the patient and surgeon before surgery. Dr. Menapace is often asked a valid question: "Why are you not in private practice?" Her answer is simple. As an academic surgeon, she gets to perform both clinical care and research work. Dr. Menapace provides vital patient care and information for future generations of surgeons.

Professional highlights

• eBoard member, Facial Plastic Surgery & Aesthetic Medicine, 2022-present.
• Resident research award, American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, 2018.
• Research award, Society for Pediatric Dermatology, 2014.