Education and background

Dr. DeFazio earned his bachelor’s degree in finance from Florida State University and his Medical Doctorate from the University of Miami, where he graduated at the top of his class with Distinction in Research and was inducted into the prestigious Alpha Omega Alpha Medical Honors Society. Dr. DeFazio went on to complete a highly competitive residency in Integrated Plastic Surgery at Georgetown University Hospital, where he trained under some of the world’s leading experts in breast reconstruction, diabetic limb salvage, hand surgery, lymphedema, and aesthetics. His passion for providing state-of-the-art care for reconstructive patients drove him to South Korea to seek additional training in advanced microsurgical and super-microsurgical techniques. 

Microvascular Surgery Fellowship: Dr. DeFazio’s Expertise

Most recently, Dr. DeFazio completed his fellowship training in microvascular surgery and oncologic reconstruction at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center—the nation’s leading hospital for comprehensive cancer care.

  • Georgetown University Hospital, Washington, DC, Residency
  • University of Texas, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, Fellowship
  • University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Medical Education
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Awards and honors

Over the course of his early career, Dr. DeFazio has garnered numerous recognitions and accolades for his accomplishments in teaching, research, and leadership. His inquisitive nature and resourcefulness have resulted in over 60 peer-reviewed publications, abstracts, and editorials, four book chapters, and over 50 presentations at regional, national, and international meetings. His research interests focus primarily on the application of innovative techniques to improve surgical outcomes, complication profiles, and patient satisfaction. Currently, Dr. DeFazio serves as a reviewer for multiple scientific journals related to plastic surgery and its subspecialties.

Clinical practice

Dr. DeFazio’s clinical practice encompasses a broad range of reconstructive and aesthetic surgical procedures; however, he primarily specializes in microsurgical reconstruction of the breast, head and neck, trunk, and extremities. Additionally, he offers the full spectrum of surgical, microsurgical, and super-microsurgical techniques for the treatment of lymphedema. 

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A commitment to excellence in treatment, care, and results.

Dr. DeFazio is committed to providing the highest standard of safe, compassionate, and quality care for patients in the greater Jacksonville area, using the latest and most innovative solutions to enhance patient outcomes, recovery, and long-term satisfaction. His philosophy of care is patient-centered and one that is focused on educating and empowering each patient to make the most informed decisions regarding his or her own care.

On a personal note…

In his free time, Dr. DeFazio enjoys exercising, swimming, surfing, and spending time with his daughters Mia, Ella, and Ava. He and his family love being outdoors and spending time at the beach. Dr. DeFazio enjoys exercising, swimming, sports, and traveling when time permits.

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An amazing doctor.

I first want to start by saying Dr. Defazio is an amazing doctor. I have been searching for the right doctor to take care of me, and he did just that. I was very nervous about my surgery, but he made me feel very safe and that I was in good hands. He is very knowledgeable in his field, and I would always come back to him for future surgery. Dr. DeFazio’s sta...

Positive, thoughtful, and encouraging…

Knowledgeable, caring, and friendly staff in every area of the Breast Oncology Department. Dr. DeFazio and his PA???s are always positive, thoughtful, and encouraging, and I feel confident that my healthcare is a priority.

I felt heard and understood.

I felt heard and understood by Dr. Michael DeFazio. I am a new patient, recently transferred from Stanford University Medical, and I am very pleased with the care I am receiving.

Technically terrific, great communicator…

Dr. DeFazio could not have been better! Technically terrific, great communicator, and extremely attentive. Also, his entire staff had the same qualities. Thank you, Dr. DeFazio, for everything you did for us.

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