About Dr Rita Yang

Dr Rita Yang is a New Zealand–trained Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon with a special interest in gender-affirming surgery, microsurgery, and complex reconstructive procedures. She is committed to delivering safe, thoughtful, and individualised surgical care grounded in respect, dignity, and clinical excellence.

Dr Yang completed her medical degree (MBChB) at the University of Auckland and went on to complete specialist training in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, gaining Fellowship of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS). Following her New Zealand training, she undertook advanced international fellowships to further refine her expertise in reconstructive and gender-affirming procedures.

Her overseas training includes time at Chang Gung Memorial Hospital in Taiwan, internationally recognised for excellence in microsurgery, as well as further advanced training in Europe. This experience has shaped her meticulous surgical technique and patient-centred approach.

Dr Yang’s practice includes:

• Gender-affirming chest and genital surgery
• Breast reconstruction and revision surgery
• Reconstructive microsurgery
• Skin cancer and complex soft tissue reconstruction
• Body contouring and aesthetic procedures
• Lymphoedema surgery
   

She is one of a small number of surgeons in Aotearoa, New Zealand, with comprehensive training in both chest and genital gender-affirming surgery.

Dr Yang believes that surgery is not only about technical precision, but also about listening carefully and understanding each patient’s goals. She works collaboratively with multidisciplinary teams to ensure patients are supported throughout their surgical journey — from consultation and preparation through to recovery and long-term follow-up.

Her approach is grounded in:

• Clinical excellence
• Clear communication
• Cultural awareness
• Respect for identity and individuality
   

Patients consistently describe her as calm, thorough, and compassionate.

12 December 2003