Surgeon Spotlight: Dr. Sybile Val, MD, FACS

The Garnes Society is honored to spotlight Dr. Sybile Val, a board certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon practicing in Atlanta, Georgia, and the current Chairwoman of the ASPS Diversity and Inclusion Committee. Dr. Val is known for her surgical excellence, her commitment to patient education, and her leadership in shaping a more inclusive future in plastic surgery.

For the past five to six years, Dr. Val has served on the ASPS Diversity and Inclusion Committee, and this year she stepped into the role of Chairwoman. Her leadership reflects her belief that representation and excellence strengthen one another.

Foundations and Early Influences

Dr. Val’s path into medicine began with a love of learning and teaching. As an undergraduate at Adelphi University, she majored in Biology and served as a chemistry teaching assistant. She discovered her passion for helping others understand complex information, which became a defining feature of her future approach to patient care.

She went on to attend Wright State University Boonshoft School of Medicine, where she continued to lean into education and service. While completing medical school, she worked as a substitute teacher for the Dayton Public School System and as a tutor for junior medical students. These experiences helped shape the mentorship mindset that is so central to her career today.

Professional Pathways and Surgical Training

After medical school, Dr. Val completed an intensive General Surgery residency at SUNY Downstate in Brooklyn, New York, where she trained in a wide range of high acuity settings.

She then pursued Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery training at Louisiana State University, where she received rigorous microsurgical training at major New Orleans hospitals, including University Hospital, formerly known as Charity Hospital. During this time, she trained with innovators who helped develop the DIEP flap, a landmark technique in modern breast reconstruction.

Her surgical experience was extensive and included:

• More than 200 microvascular breast and trauma reconstructions

• National and international research presentations

• Significant training in fat grafting, breast reconstruction, and aesthetic surgery

Dr. Val’s clinical interests now include breast reconstruction and rejuvenation, liposculpting and body contouring, fat grafting, and injectables. She is known for her combination of technical precision and personable communication. Patients often comment on her thoroughness, and she is known to quiz them at the end of a consultation to ensure they fully understand their options.

Leadership, Vision, and the Future of Plastic Surgery

As Chairwoman of the ASPS Diversity and Inclusion Committee, Dr. Val brings enthusiasm, clarity, and purpose.

“I was excited to lead this committee because it is an important moment in history,” she shared. “Right now, more than ever, we need to talk about inclusivity, and I am excited to do that in plastic surgery.”

Her goals include:

• Increasing support for residents and fellows

• Ensuring trainees have supplemental programs and mentorship to successfully complete training

She also offered advice to current trainees.

“It is a wonderful time to be a doctor and a resident,” she said. “There is so much work, and sometimes people forget how much of a privilege it is. Residency is a time to be creative and to push yourself. Enjoy your training because once it is done, it is done.”

To medical students hoping to enter plastic surgery, she added:

“ Work hard and make great connections, but more important than connections is the work you do. Find projects that interest you and bring your excitement. We want to lift you up and help you. Get involved early and stay optimistic.”

Closing Reflections

Dr. Sybile Val represents the very best of modern plastic surgery. Her career reflects technical excellence, compassion, and a commitment to creating a more inclusive and supportive specialty. Her leadership continues to inspire residents, fellows, and students in the field.

The Garnes Society is proud to highlight her journey, her vision, and her dedication to advancing the profession.