G. Zehra Kocyigit was born in İzmir, Turkey, and graduated with distinction from Mugla University School of Medicine in November 2023. During her final year, she completed elective internships in general surgery departments across the United States, where she actively acquired patient histories, assisted in surgeries, and contributed to medical rounds. These experiences refined her surgical skills and deepened her commitment to patient-centered care within a dynamic surgical team environment.
Zehra's interest in plastic surgery deepened during a summer internship in 2021 at the renowned Leon Berard Cancer Center in Lyon, France, under the mentorship of Dr. Emmanuel Delay. She actively participated in intricate breast reconstruction surgeries for post-cancer patients who had undergone mastectomies. This experience solidified her passion for plastic surgery, particularly within the context of cancer care. She enjoys participating in volunteering activities such as the Breast Reconstruction Awareness 5K Marathon, reflecting her dedication to both Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and her community.
Zehra plans to engage in innovative therapeutic approaches that will enhance patients' results and overall well-being. She will continue her research journey with a two-year postdoctoral research fellowship at the University of Pittsburgh Department of Plastic Surgery, focusing on Adipose Stem Cells under the mentorship of Dr. Lauren Kokai.
Outside of her medical career, as the Founder and 1st President of the European Medical Students’ Association (EMSA) Mugla, she significantly contributed to EMSA's policy papers, advocating universal health coverage across Europe and championing the perspectives of future doctors. Zehra is also a promoter of women and diversity in plastic surgery, working to create inclusive and supportive environments within the field. Her personal interests include traveling across Europe, sewing clothes, and spending quality time with her sisters and their Scottish Fold cat.