Introduction of Robert J. Allen, M.D., F.A.C.S.

I wish to begin by thanking Dr. Robert J. Allen for serving as Guest Editor for this premier edition of Seminars in Plastic Surgery, and the invited authors of this issue for sharing their experiences on the topic of Advances in Breast Reconstruction.

Dr. Allen has made landmark contributions in breast reconstruction using the deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) flap. His skill in the performance of the DIEP flap is well known and he has assembled here an excellent international presence of experts in the field of breast reconstruction.

Dr. Allen received his medical education at the Medical University of South Carolina, later completing his general and plastic surgery residencies at Louisiana State University, and a Microsurgery Fellowship at New York University Medical Center. In addition to being a board certified plastic surgeon, he holds a certificate in added qualifications in hand surgery from the American Board of Plastic Surgery.

Clinical Associate Professor and Chief of the Section of Plastic Surgery at Louisiana State University Medical Center, he also holds the post of Chief of the Section of Plastic Surgery at Memorial Medical Center, and Consultant in Plastic Surgery at Veteran's Administration Hospital.

For this inaugural issue of Seminars in Plastic Surgery, the new format of the journal that replaces Perspectives in Plastic Surgery, Dr. Allen's expertise and the knowledge of the invited authors on the topic of Advances in Breast Reconstruction are outstanding.