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
- “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
- “Ontological Safety of Nipple Skin Sparing or Total Skin Sparing Mastectomies with Immediate Reconstruction“. Journal of American College of Surgeons 2011;212:686-695.
- “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
Breast Cancer Surgery: Comprehensive Expert Insights
To shed light on this crucial aspect of treatment, we’ve gathered comprehensive insights from Dr. Yara Robertson
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.
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
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