Dena Thayer, DO
Board-Certified Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon Serving Muskegon, MI
Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon Dr. Dena Thayer in Muskegon is a board-certified plastic surgeon with over 15 years of experience caring for patients in West Michigan. She offers a comprehensive range of surgical services with a particular passion for breast cancer reconstruction and patient-centered care. Dr. Thayer is proud to provide advanced reconstructive options in partnership with a dedicated team of breast surgeons and oncologists.
Dr. Thayer earned her medical degree from Des Moines University in 1997. She completed her residency in general and plastic surgery at the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine in 2004. During her training, she provided care to melanoma patients at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center in New York and completed a six-month rotation at the Burn Center at Westchester Medical Center in Valhalla, NY.
Dr. Thayer performs surgeries at Trinity Health Muskegon Hospital, Trinity Health Grand Haven Hospital, and the Muskegon Surgery Center. She also serves as co-director of wound care at Select Specialty Hospital and the Mercy Wound Care Center.
Breast Reconstruction Expertise in Muskegon
Dr. Thayer is passionate about guiding breast cancer patients through their reconstructive journey. She specializes in the latest techniques, including intraoperative audiography, prepectoral reconstruction with acellular dermal matrix grafts, and oncoplastic reconstruction using the patient’s own tissue. Her approach is both compassionate and collaborative, working closely with other specialists to achieve the best possible outcomes.
Experienced and Compassionate Surgical Care
With a strong foundation in plastic and reconstructive surgery and a commitment to innovation, Dr. Thayer continues to provide skilled, evidence-based care. She believes in empowering her patients with information and support at every step of their treatment process.
Accepting New Patients
Plastic Surgeon Dr. Dena Thayer is currently accepting new patients in Muskegon and the surrounding areas. Call our office to schedule a consultation, or visit our Plastic Surgery page to learn more.
In Practice Since:
2004
Awards/Honors:
Top Doctor – Grand Rapids Magazine (2019, 2020, 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025)
Education
Medical School:
Des Moines University, Des Moines, IA
Residency:
General Surgery & Plastic Surgery – Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine, Philadelphia, PA
Additional Clinical Experience:
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Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, Manhattan, NY (Melanoma Care)
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Burn Center at Westchester Medical Center, Valhalla, NY
Board Certification:
Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery – American Osteopathic Board of Surgery
Specialties
Plastic Surgery
Breast Reconstruction, Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, Melanoma Surgery, Burn Care, Wound Care