Alumni in Medicine: Lauren Nigro, M.D. ’05

• Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon, Mercy Medical Center, Baltimore, MD
• M.D. Robert Wood Johnson Medical School
• B.S. in Molecular Biology, Princeton University

Describe your responsibilities and day-to-day work.
The majority of my practice is focused on breast reconstruction for women who have had cancer. I completed a fellowship in microsurgery, which allows me to use a patient’s own tissue to reconstruct or rebuild areas of the body that have been removed
after cancer or trauma. A smaller subset of my practice addresses other reconstructive and cosmetic concerns from head to toe. I also work closely with several other medical specialties. The variety keeps it exciting!

What is the most rewarding part of your work?
The most rewarding part of what I do is helping patients navigate a particularly tough time in their lives and ultimately restoring their sense of wholeness through reconstructive surgeries.

How did your passion for medicine/health care begin and were there any specific experiences that had an impact on you?
In medical school I was pleasantly surprised by the many overlaps between art and surgery, particularly plastic surgery. The term “plastic” surgery has Greek origins and means to mold or shape; it defines the specialty well. I have always enjoyed the instant gratification and creativity involved in making things, which was really fostered during art and woodworking at Moorestown Friends. The ability to apply these interests in my daily work played a large role in my passion for health care.

How has your Moorestown Friends education served you in your career and life?
Moorestown Friends taught me to find the fun and joy in learning. My teachers had a contagious passion and would challenge me with thought-provoking questions and concepts. In the medical field, I love learning new things relevant to plastic surgery and questioning the way we do things. I like to think of myself as a professional, life-long learner!

Do you have any additional MFS stories or memories you would like to share that were influential in your life?
It’s hard to pinpoint one particularly influential moment from my 13 years at MFS. I spent a considerable amount of time on the fields and court and undoubtedly learned a tremendous amount from those experiences. Athletics at MFS taught me how to  overcome challenges, work in a team environment, and develop confidence. Some of my best memories were as a freshman, looking up to the older teammates as role models and pushing myself to emulate their abilities and sportsmanship.

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