Dr. Mitchell R. Gauger is a board-eligible plastic and reconstructive surgeon specializing in aesthetic surgery of the face, breast, and body. With a reputation for natural, elegant results and a calm, reassuring bedside manner, he delivers highly individualized care for each patient’s aesthetic goals.

Meet Dr. Gauger

Born in Memphis and raised in Indiana, Dr. Gauger proudly considers himself a Hoosier at heart. He graduated summa cum laude from Indiana University with a B.S. in Biology and a minor in Chemistry, where he was inducted into Phi Beta Kappa and honored as an All-American Academic Swimmer. He went on to earn his medical degree from Wayne State University School of Medicine, where he was a four-time Cumulative Honors recipient and inducted into the Alpha Omega Alpha (AOA) Honor Medical Society.

Dr. Gauger completed his residency in plastic and reconstructive surgery at Corewell Health / Michigan State University, serving as Chief Resident. There, he trained extensively under internationally recognized masters in aesthetic surgery, including Dr. Dennis Hammond, a pioneer in breast aesthetics, and Dr. John Polley, an expert in complex facial surgery. Their mentorship refined his surgical approach and deepened his commitment to achieving balanced, long-lasting aesthetic outcomes.

Patients appreciate Dr. Gauger’s thoughtful, personalized consultations and his meticulous surgical technique. Whether enhancing the natural contours of the face or restoring confidence through body contouring procedures, his results reflect harmony and precision. Known for his approachable demeanor and thoughtful communication, Dr. Gauger takes time to understand each patient’s goals and concerns, ensuring they feel confident and supported throughout their care.

Education & Training

  • Residency: Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery. Corewell Health / Michigan State University (Chief Resident)
  • Medical School: M.D. Wayne State University School of Medicine (AOA)
  • College: B.S. in Biology, summa cum laude. Indiana University, Bloomington (minor in Chemistry)

Selected Publications

  • Gauger M, Hammond D, et al. A Comparative Analysis on the Gravitational Effect on Silicone and Saline Breast Implants. PRS Global Open. 2024.
  • Nelson J, Gauger M, et al. Warning Signs: Occult Diabetes in the Hand Surgery Population. J Hand Surg. 2023.
  • Gauger M, et al. Hook of the Hamate Pathologies and Associated Flexor Tendon Ruptures. PRS Global Open. 2023.
  • Sabesan VJ, Gauger M, et al. Does Medicaid Status Affect Shoulder Arthroplasty Outcomes? Musculoskelet Surg. 2021.
  • Gauger M, et al. Pain Distribution in Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. Muscle Nerve. 2019.

Honors and Awards

  • First Place, Grand Rapids Citywide Research Day. Plastic Surgery Category (2024)
  • ASSH/AFSH Annual Meeting Scholarship (2022)
  • Best Abstract, ASPS Plastic Surgery The Meeting (2018)
  • University of Michigan Surgery Leadership Weekend Scholar (2018)
  • Wayne State Medical Student Research Fellowship (2016)
  • IU Excellence Scholarship
  • All-American Academic Swimmer

Professional Societies

  • American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) Member
  • The Aesthetic Society, Associate Member
  • Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society
  • Phi Beta Kappa Honor Society

Personal

Outside of surgery, Dr. Gauger enjoys swimming, golf, international travel, and mastering the craft of espresso. Grounded in Midwestern values and a lifelong dedication to clinical excellence, he brings warmth, thoughtful communication, and precision to every patient interaction.

Procedures

Facial Aesthetic Surgery

Breast Surgery

Body Contouring

Skin Cancer and Scar Refinement

  • Excision of benign and malignant skin lesions
  • Mohs reconstruction
  • Scar revision
  • Complex wound closure and aesthetic skin repair

Non-Surgical Facial Aesthetic Procedures

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