Amelia Merrill, MD

Growing up around my father's veterinary clinic in Atlanta, I knew I wanted to be a doctor. That dream solidified during college as I worked in a rural medical clinic in Zimbabwe, Africa. I chose a career in medicine to help those in need. \n I chose to specialize in breast surgical oncology because it brings together areas of medicine that I am passionate about: women's health, surgery and cancer biology. My work focuses on treating diseases of the breast - cancers and benign diseases - in women and men. I am a board-certified, fellowship-trained breast surgeon. \n My approach to care centers on shared decision-making between my patients and our multidisciplinary team. My patients are often able to participate in clinical trials aimed at improving their care, survival and quality of life. \n I use state-of-the-art breast surgery techniques. These include ultrasound-guided procedures, breast conservation using the Hidden Scar technique, oncoplastic breast surgery, nipple-sparing mastectomy, minimally invasive axillary lymph node procedures and axillary reverse mapping to reduce the risk of lymphedema. \n For me, it is rewarding to treat a patient for cancer and continue to look after her or him each year for surveillance. Those long-term relationships are what matter most. \n I am a member of the Novant Health Cancer Institute cancer committee and the physician excellence committee. I am also a member of the American Society of Breast Surgeons, the Society of Surgical Oncology and a fellow of the American College of Surgeons. \n In medical school, I was inducted into the Alpha Omega Alpha Medical Honor Society. \n Medical school is where I met my husband, who is a Novant Health emergency medicine physician. We have one son and enjoy exploring Charlotte, spending time in the park, traveling and snow skiing.