Yara V. Robertson, MD, FACS

Medical Director of Surgical Oncology, CARTI Cancer Center

Medical School

Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University

Residency

General Surgery, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS)

Fellowship(s)

Breast Surgical Oncology, Winthrop P. Rockefeller Cancer Institute, UAMS

Area of Expertise

  • Breast Surgical Oncology
  • High-Risk Breast Cancer Management
  • Benign Breast Diseases
  • Patient-Centered Care
  • Breast Cancer Disparities

Years of Experience

Over 15 years

Certifications & Licensure

  • Board Certified in General Surgery (2011 – present)
  • Fellow of the American College of Surgeons (2013 – present)
  • Arkansas State Medical Board License
  • Georgia State Medical Board License

Biography

Dr. Yara V. Robertson is a fellowship-trained breast surgical oncologist and board-certified general surgeon with over 15 years of experience. Originally from Memphis, Tennessee, Dr. Robertson completed her undergraduate studies at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga before earning her medical degree from Quillen College of Medicine at East Tennessee State University.

After completing her general surgery residency at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS), Dr. Robertson pursued a fellowship in Diseases of the Breast at the Winthrop P. Rockefeller Cancer Institute at UAMS. Her extensive training and experience have made her a leading expert in breast surgical oncology.

Dr. Robertson spent nine years in private practice in Atlanta, Georgia, before returning to Little Rock, Arkansas, in 2020 to join CARTI Cancer Center. She currently serves as the Chief of Surgery and Medical Director of Surgical Oncology at CARTI, where she continues to provide exceptional care to breast cancer patients.

As a kidney cancer survivor herself, Dr. Robertson brings a unique perspective to patient care. She is a strong advocate for patient-centered care and shared decision-making, understanding firsthand the importance of the patient’s role in their treatment journey.

Dr. Robertson is passionate about eliminating disparities in breast cancer treatment, especially within the African American community. She actively participates in health fairs, provides free clinical breast exams, and lectures on breast health to promote early detection and improve outcomes for all patients.

Professional Memberships

  • Golden Key Honor Society
  • Mortar Board Honor Society
  • Who’s Who Among College Students
  • United States Achievement Academy National Award
  • Recognized as An Outstanding Alumna by University of TN at Chattanooga
  • Above and Beyond Award, Rising Phenomenal Women
  • Award Winner, A Salute to Doctors, Physicians, and Caregivers
  • Congressional Recognition from Congress David Scott for Outstanding and Invaluable Service to the Community
  • SPARK star Award

Selected Publications & Presentations

  1. The Relationship Between ABO Blood Type, Ethnicity, and Breast Cancer with Local Recurrence and Survival“, American Society of Breast Surgeons. Washington, D.C. April 2011. Poster Presentation
  2. Ontological Safety of Nipple Skin Sparing or Total Skin Sparing Mastectomies with Immediate Reconstruction“. Journal of American College of Surgeons 2011;212:686-695.
  3. The SAVE Review: Sonographic Analysis versus Excision for Axillary Staging in Breast Cancer” Southern Surgical Association 126th Annual Meeting, Palm Beach, FL, November 30-December 3, 2014

featured Articles

Dr. Yara Robertson headshot with flower petals in the background.

Breast Cancer Surgery: Comprehensive Expert Insights

To shed light on this crucial aspect of treatment, we’ve gathered comprehensive insights from Dr. Yara Robertson

A smiling woman in medical attire with text "YARA ROBERTSONS MD FACS, MEDICAL ADVISOR, African American Women and Breast Cancer", indicating an interview topic or feature on health.

Combating Breast Cancer Disparities among Black Women

Despite overall advances in cancer treatment, Black women face higher mortality rates and more aggressive forms of the disease.

Blue watery patterns

Shining a Light on Male Breast Cancer: A New Resource Page

We’re excited to announce the launch of our new page dedicated to Male Breast Cancer.

Featured Interview

Breast Cancer Diagnosis: Why You Shouldn't Rush into Surgery

Testimonial

MEET OUR EXPERT MEDICAL TEAM

Explore the expertise of our medical advisors, who are dedicated to advancing breast cancer awareness, treatment, and support. Connect with our team and discover how their guidance contributes to the resources and insights available within our breast cancer support groups.

Blog

News

Medical Advisors

Survivor Stories