Dr. Dennis M Nigro, the founder of Fresh Start Surgical Gifts, had a long history of giving back to those less fortunate. Dr. Nigro’s time at Notre Dame University, where he received his bachelor’s degree, instilled in him the importance of public service. Dr. Nigro received his M.D. at Creighton University School of Medicine and completed his general surgery residency at the University of California, San Francisco and his plastic surgery residency at the University of California, San Diego.

After completing his residency, Dr. Nigro began his commitment to service by participating in medical mission trips to Mexico. Although Dr. Nigro enjoyed these trips, he was frustrated that not all of the tools and expertise he needed were at his disposal in Mexico – Dr. Nigro realized that international patients would be better served and would receive a higher level of care if treated in the United States.

In 1986, Dr. Nigro began recruiting local San Diego doctors and nurses to volunteer their time at his surgery center in Encinitas to help transform the lives of children and youth from San Diego as well as around the world. Dr. Nigro began funding his work for the less fortunate completely on his own until he founded Fresh Start Surgical Gifts in 1991. For Dr. Nigro, Fresh Start was a way for specialized surgeons to give back in the most time effective manner instead of traveling abroad.

Throughout his life, Dr. Nigro received recognition and respect from a large range of medical professionals and organizations. Dr. Nigro was recognized by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, American College of Surgeons, and the International College of Surgeons for his numerous accomplishments within plastic surgery. Dr. Nigro was also involved in the application and development of two inventions, the bioabsorbable screw for use in aesthetic and reconstructive surgery and the CO2 Diamond Blade Laser Scalpel for plastic surgery application. In 2004, the Plastic Surgery Education Foundation presented its highest honor to Dr. Nigro, the “PSEF Distinguished Service Award” for ongoing contributions in education and international service efforts; he was the only plastic surgeon given this award.

Towards the end of his life, Dr. Nigro suffered from esophageal cancer, but continued to be dedicated to his patients and to the mission of Fresh Start Surgical Gifts. Up until his death in 2009, Dr. Nigro remained committed to providing free reconstructive plastic surgery to those who could not afford it and left an unforgettable legacy that is remembered by his patients, family, and friends.