Faculty Profile: Kevin Yakuboff, MD
Becoming a Surgeon: A Childhood Dream
Kevin Yakuboff, MD, believes in childhood dreams—his was to become a surgeon. He says, "Even as a child, I never considered doing anything else." Today as a plastic surgeon, he treats children to make sure they have the best chance possible to make their dreams a reality too.
Committed to Helping Children
Dr. Yakuboff is a photographer and history buff but nothing gives him greater pleasure than his time spent with the children and families who depend on him for top quality medical care.
"Helping a child gain function in their arm and hand is why I am here," says Dr. Yakuboff. "It's always rewarding to see improvement and share in the successes of the families we get to know who visit the Brachial Plexus Center."
Dr. Yakuboff decided to go into plastic surgery after working with children on the burn units of Shriners Hospital as a medical student. It was at that point that he began repairing many children's upper extremities after injuries and burns.
He became interested in treating children with brachial plexus injuries during a hand surgery fellowship at the Institute for Hand and Microsurgery in Louisville, Kentucky in 1989. "I enjoy helping children with brachial plexus injuries regain use of their hand and arm because it is so rewarding to see their improvement," says Dr. Yakuboff. "Their families are so appreciative, and it is touching to see hope restored to their lives."
An Invaluable Team Member
Today, Dr. Yakuboff offers his expertise in the area of nerve repair and hand surgery as a member of the Cincinnati Children's Brachial Plexus Team. He is also the Chief of Plastic Surgery at Shriner's Hospital in Cincinnati.
Candy Wilson, a nurse who works with Dr. Yakuboff, says he is one of her favorite physicians to work with because he is so knowledgeable. "I always learn something from him because he knows so much about medicine," she says, "He is also approachable and respectful of his staff and of the patients and families."
Candy admires Dr. Yakuboff's ability to connect with his patients and the information provided to their parents. "He is very caring toward patients. He takes time to answer all questions and he talks directly to the child in a positive and honest way."
Nichole and Andre Bumpus agree. Dr. Yakuboff met with them immediately after their daughter, Amari, had nerve surgery. He used a dry erase board to explain how he had repaired Amari's nerves so that they could understand the procedure.
Dr. Yakuboff always takes time to talk with families because he believes it is an important part of patient care—the more the families understand the condition, the better able they are to care for their child in the most beneficial way.
Read more information about Dr. Yakuboff.
