Melanie Lynch

Melanie Lynch, MD, is an Assistant Professor of Surgery (Oncology, Breast) and Director of Breast Surgery at Smilow Cancer Hospital locations in Bridgeport, Fairfield, Trumbull, and Bridgeport Hospital. She specializes in breast cancer surgery, integrating oncoplastic techniques and lymphedema prevention. Previously, she served as Medical Director of the Summa Health System Breast Program and Section Chief of General Surgery at Cleveland VA Medical Center. Dr. Lynch holds an MD from The Ohio State College of Medicine (1999) and an MA in Women’s Studies from The Ohio State University (1988).

• Education:
  • MD: The Ohio State College of Medicine (1999)
  • MA: The Ohio State University, Women’s Studies (1988)

Research & Clinical Focus: Dr. Lynch focuses on advanced surgical techniques for breast cancer, including nipple-sparing mastectomy and breast-conserving approaches. She emphasizes multidisciplinary care, survivorship programs, and integrative medicine for symptom management. Her work emphasizes patient-centered care and reducing recurrence risks through lifestyle interventions.

• Awards:
  • 2018 Crain’s Cleveland Business Physician Innovator Award for developing an expedited breast cancer access program.

Teams & Affiliations: She leads the Norma Pfriem Breast Center and collaborates with plastic surgery, medical oncology, and radiology teams at Smilow Cancer Hospital. Her clinical programs include high-risk screening, survivorship care, and multidisciplinary clinics.