Up Close With Dr. Evan Jones

Otolaryngologist Evan Jones, MD, is settling into his new role as a reconstructive surgery fellow amid the throes of Houston weather—the opposite from his native Pennsylvania.

Evan Jones, MD

Originally from northeast Pennsylvania, just outside of Scranton, Jones graduated from the Schreyer Honors College at Penn State University with distinction in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. He went on to earn a medical degree at Temple University School of Medicine in Philadelphia. Jones finally made his way south for residency training in Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery at Baylor College of Medicine. During his time at Baylor, he also trained with Houston Methodist. Through his experience with Houston Methodist, he decided he wanted to continue his training here. Now, he continues with specialized aesthetic and reconstructive experience at Houston Methodist Hospital in a highly sought-after fellowship in Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery. He credits his wife, physician Sarah Bruce, MD, who completed her residency training at Houston Methodist in Obstetrics and Gynecology, for leading him into his field through a mentor at Temple University.

Q&A with Dr. Jones

You have a special interest in facial plastic surgery; why this field?

As a facial plastic surgeon, I have the pleasure of working with patients with the goal of having the outside world see them as they see themselves, whether that is through aesthetic modifications or reconstructive techniques. The key to success is to make sure patient and provider goals are aligned. In surgery, I can actually execute and ensure these goals become a reality.

Do you have a memorable surgery?

The surgery that led me toward a focus on head and neck anatomy is particularly memorable. It was in medical school that involved a complete dissection of the entire facial nerve, which is responsible for moving the muscles of the face. I now treat these muscles with neurotoxin like Botox. It just all comes full circle.

Is there a particular surgery that you would like to perform?

One of the most common procedures I perform is rhinoplasty, which is an extremely rewarding and complex surgery. There are many intricacies of rhinoplasty that address functionality by improving nasal obstruction and changing the appearance of the nose. Keeping the patient’s goals and wishes in the forefront during surgery makes every rhinoplasty a dynamic and personalized undertaking. It’s a dual-approach surgery where both form and function can be addressed.

Some say that their profession chose them. What’s your view?

From an early age, I knew that I wanted to be physician to directly impact and help people. These values were ingrained during my childhood. One of the reasons I was interested in pursuing medicine is because of my older brother (who is now an interventional cardiologist). We share our stories and experiences that are meaningful and bring us closer together. In medical school, I was immediately enthralled with the anatomy lab. I knew that using my hands, seeing direct results and the impact I can make in an individual's life was what led me to the surgical and procedural field.

What would be your advice to your younger self?

Keep working. Keep your head up. Maintain a bright and cheery personality—it'll take you farther than anything else in this world. Be kind and considerate. Maintain the level of determination that was instilled in you from being the youngest of five brothers.

Why Houston Methodist?

Houston Methodist is exceptionally supportive. As a surgeon at Houston Methodist, there is congeniality and cooperativity, overwhelming institutional and personal support, countless educational resources and the ability to work with some of the top providers in the field. The opportunity to implement innovative techniques to patient care is incredible—all this in the Texas Medical Center— is enormously powerful.

“Dr. Jones brings an impressive background and outstanding surgical training that will undoubtedly enhance our team. His expertise and dedication to refining his skills in facial plastic surgery make him an ideal fit for this fellowship,” said Anthony E. Brissett, MD, FACS, Professor of Clinical Otolaryngology. “With passion for teaching, intellectual curiosity and commitment to providing kind and compassionate care align perfectly with the values of our department. “I am particularly enthusiastic about being a part of this transformative experience for Dr. Jones and look forward to mentoring and working closely with him throughout this fellowship year. His arrival marks an exciting chapter for us, and I am eager to witness his growth and success that lie ahead.”