New Patient Appointment Accepting Virtual Visits or 214-645-2353
Rita Shelby, M.D., is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Plastic Surgery at UT Southwestern Medical Center. She specializes in general plastic surgery, breast reconstruction, and Mohs reconstruction.
Dr. Shelby earned her medical degree at the University of Texas Medical Branch. She completed a residency in general surgery at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, where she also gained advanced training through a pediatric surgery research fellowship. She then completed an independent plastic surgery residency at the University of Miami Health System, where she served as Administrative Chief Resident.
Dr. Shelby joined the UT Southwestern faculty in 2025.
She is a member of numerous professional organizations, including the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, and the Society of Black Academic Surgeons.
Dr. Shelby has delivered numerous presentations, contributed to the book Operative Dictations in Pediatric Surgery, and published several academic articles related to her areas of expertise.
When she’s not at work, Dr. Shelby enjoys traveling the world with her husband, cooking for friends and family, and spending time with her goldendoodle, Ford.
Dr. Shelby’s educational journey – from training as a registered nurse to completing residencies in general and plastic surgery – provides a comprehensive, whole-patient perspective that informs her care.
Her unique path in medicine began at UT Southwestern as a neonatal intensive care nurse. Inspired by the physicians she worked alongside, who saw her potential and encouraged her to pursue a career in medicine, she applied to medical school and was accepted to the University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston.
Initially planning for general surgery, she began her residency at The Ohio State University. It was during her work with the plastic surgery team on research that she discovered her true passion. Dr. Shelby realized plastic surgery offered the opportunity to be a true generalist, treating a vast array of cases. This breadth and the chance to make an immediate impact are what ultimately drew her to the field.
Dr. Shelby explains the appeal: “In plastic surgery, you can truly work head to toe in a day’s work. That variety really appealed to me, and the immediate gratification of seeing results right away.”
Dr. Shelby has now returned to Dallas to rejoin UT Southwestern as a member of the plastic surgery team. As a Dallas native and active member of the community, she brings a deep understanding of the local culture and existing connections, which helps her patients feel more comfortable and supported.
As a generalist plastic surgeon, Dr. Shelby cares for patients across a broad spectrum of reconstructive, aesthetic, and trauma-related needs. Her practice spans breast procedures, including reductions, augmentation, and reconstructions, as well as body and aesthetic procedures.
Dr. Shelby also provides expert management of complex wounds and keloids and brings significant experience in lower extremity reconstruction using advanced microsurgery techniques. She maintains a strong interest in Mohs reconstruction following skin cancer removal and performs specialized procedures such as transgender surgery.
She collaborates closely with UT Southwestern’s robust microsurgery team, which is nationally recognized for its efficiency and expertise in complex reconstructions, particularly in breast surgery.
“I value the ability to learn and be mentored by my fellow physicians in this area,” she says. “The UT Southwestern microsurgery team is truly renowned for the speed and skill with which they perform complex reconstructions. Being part of this team ensures my patients receive care that is at the forefront of the field.”
Dr. Shelby believes that successful outcomes begin with strong communication and a deep understanding of the patient's perspective. She prioritizes actively listening to her patients’ goals, sees her role as a guide, and establishes clear, realistic expectations.
“My goal is to meet patients where they are,” she says. “Plastic surgery is impactful – it changes the way you look, and that has a profound psychological effect. It’s essential that patients fully grasp what those changes mean, both physically and emotionally, because that makes a real difference in their healing and long-term satisfaction.”
Dr. Shelby explains that her approach is founded on honesty, thorough education, and careful, individualized planning. She recognizes that while it's essential to give patients hope, it must be grounded in reality. By tailoring treatment to what she and the patient feel will yield the best results, she aims to achieve outcomes that are not only safe but also profoundly meaningful and psychologically supportive.
Beyond her clinical practice, Dr. Shelby is deeply committed to shaping the future of plastic surgery by championing diversity and mentorship.
She serves as the Director of the Women of Color in Plastic Surgery Research Collaborative. This organization unites attending plastic surgeons and medical students, focusing on mentorship and advancing research within the field.
Through this role, Dr. Shelby actively works to create opportunities for the next generation, guiding aspiring surgeons and contributing to the development of a more inclusive and representative field.
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New Patient Appointment Accepting Virtual Visits or 214-645-2353
