Kevin Arce

Dr. Kevin Arce, M.D., D.M.D. is Chair of the Division of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery in the Department of Surgery at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota. He is an active leader in research and education at Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, with a special interest in head and neck cancer and maxillofacial trauma and reconstructive surgery.

Dr. Arce's educational background includes:

• DMD from Temple University School of Dentistry (1996)
• MD from Mayo Medical School (2000)
• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery residency at Mayo Clinic College of Medicine (2002)
• Head and Neck Surgery fellowship at Legacy Emanuel Hospital (2005)
• Master of Clinical Research from Oregon Health and Science University (2010)
• Master of Academic Medicine from Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California (2013)

Dr. Arce's research focuses on advancing techniques in head and neck reconstruction, with particular emphasis on virtual surgical planning, patient-specific implants, and microvascular reconstruction. His work bridges the gap between medical and dental disciplines, with numerous publications exploring innovative approaches to maxillofacial trauma, cancer reconstruction, and prosthetic rehabilitation. Recent trends in his research include the application of 3D printing technology, artificial intelligence in surgical planning, and optimizing outcomes for complex head and neck procedures.

Dr. Arce has received significant recognition for his teaching excellence:

• Teacher of the Year by Mayo Fellows Association (2012, 2013, 2014)
• Faculty Educator Development Award (2009)
• American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons award (2009)
• Omicron Kappa Upsilon National Dental Honor Society (1996)

As Division Chair, Dr. Arce oversees a comprehensive academic program that integrates clinical care, research, and education in oral and maxillofacial surgery. He has mentored numerous residents and fellows, with several receiving awards under his guidance. His research program maintains active collaborations across Mayo Clinic and with external institutions, focusing on improving outcomes in head and neck reconstruction.

Dr. Arce leads a research program focused on surgical innovation in head and neck reconstruction, with particular expertise in fibular free flaps, virtual surgical planning, and patient-specific implant design. His team works at the intersection of surgical oncology, trauma reconstruction, and advanced manufacturing technologies.