Effective November 2024, Jennifer Waljee, MD, fulfilled the position of Division Chief of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery in the Department of Surgery at Indiana University School of Medicine. As the leader of one of the nation’s top plastic surgery programs, Waljee is committed to advancing state of the art surgical techniques, maximize the educational opportunities for students, residents, and fellows, and innovate to advance the science care in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. Going forward, she envisions expanding the presence of IU Plastic Surgery across the state and on a national scale.
“This is one of the premier plastic surgery teams in the United States,” said Waljee. “Our incredibly talented group of surgeons provides the highest level of care across every facet of our specialty. My vision is to keep pushing boundaries—advancing the surgical care we provide by supporting the wealth of clinical experience and research expertise on our team.”
In addition to joining a world-class team of surgeons, the Department of Surgery appealed to Waljee because of the opportunity to advance the scientific portfolio of surgical research and create pathways to engage learners across levels in the academic mission.
“The Department of Surgery and Division of Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery represents the highest caliber of an incredibly talented, generous and warm group of individuals,” said Waljee. “I am excited about being a part of residency program that trains the best plastic surgeons in the country, and the wealth of research opportunities here across campus, specifically within the department and the Surgical Outcomes and Quality Improvement Center (SOQIC).”
Waljee’s arrival to Indianapolis comes after an impressive stint at University of Michigan, where she co-directed and co-founded the Overdose Prevention Engagement Network, a federally and state funded research program focused on creating postoperative opioid prescribing guidelines and care pathways for complex pain management during surgery. As a member of the University of Michigan Insititute for Healthcare Policy and with over 200 peer-reviewed publications, Waljee has established herself as a national leader in opioid stewardship, serving on numerous committees shaping perioperative care standards.
“I am proud of the work we have accomplished in Michigan with our team in the Overdose Prescribing Engagement Network and its impact on surgical care and patient outcomes in our state,” said Waljee.
Although Waljee is still in the midst of transitioning her research from Michigan to Indiana, her commitment to optimizing care for individuals with opioid use and substance use disorders remains.
“I am passionate about understanding how we can improve perioperative care for individuals with mental health conditions and substance use disorders,” said Waljee. “Surgical care is part of a broader effort to support the health of individuals who struggle with mental health conditions and substance use disorders. A great deal of opportunity remains for important workhere and across the country.”
In addition to her research, Waljee served as the Vice Chair of Faculty Life, and as one of the original architects of the Michigan Promise, a comprehensive set of programs designed to shape culture and foster professional development in academic surgery.
For Waljee, moving from Ann Arbor to Indianapolis has offered the opportunity to enjoy the city atmosphere and the small town feel the city offers.
“Indianapolis is a vibrant and welcoming city that continues to grow and evolve,” said Waljee. “The energy and spirit here are truly inspiring, and it is an honor to be a part of an incredible team dedicated to serving this community and our entire state.”
You can learn more about the Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery here.
