Richard Thomson, MD, MSc, FRSC

Richard Thomson, MD, is an assistant professor in the Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery at UT Health San Antonio. His clinical practice focuses on the treatment of congenital and acquired facial differences, including post-Mohs reconstruction. He has particular expertise in cleft lip and palate and provides comprehensive care across the full spectrum of pediatric plastic surgery.

Dr. Thomson received his medical degree from the University of Liverpool and earned a master’s degree in surgical science and practice from the University of Oxford. He completed his residency in plastic and reconstructive surgery at the Welsh Center for Burns and Plastic Surgery and was admitted as a Fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons of England in plastic surgery (FRCS Plast).

He completed three international subspecialty fellowships in pediatric plastic surgery at BC Children’s Hospital in Vancouver, craniofacial surgery at Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children in London and cleft lip and palate surgery at Evelina London Children’s Hospital in London.

Before joining UT Health San Antonio, Dr. Thomson served as an attending consultant at Bristol Royal Hospital for Children and the Welsh Center for Cleft Lip and Palate Surgery. He is committed to a patient-centered approach, emphasizing individualized care and clear communication with patients and families. He works closely with multidisciplinary teams to support coordinated care and achieve the best possible outcomes.

Dr. Thomson views plastic surgery as one of the most rewarding fields in medicine, valuing the opportunity to care for patients from diagnosis through reconstruction and to build lasting relationships over time. He is particularly motivated by the ability to restore both function and appearance for patients with congenital or acquired differences, helping improve quality of life and confidence.

He is also drawn to the collaborative nature of plastic surgery and the opportunity to work alongside colleagues from multiple disciplines to address complex problems. The combination of technical precision, creativity and teamwork is central to his practice. With advanced international training in cleft, craniofacial and pediatric plastic surgery, he remains committed to advancing surgical techniques to improve patient outcomes.

Outside of work, he enjoys endurance sports such as open-water swimming and road cycling, which are part of his triathlon training.