About

I am Lee C. Zhao, MD, MS, Professor of Urology and Plastic Surgery at NYU Langone Health in New York City. My clinical and academic focus is on complex robotic and open reconstructive urology, with particular emphasis on urethral stricture disease and advanced ureteral reconstruction.

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Background and Training

Prior to medical school, I completed a Master of Science in Biomedical Engineering and served with the Peace Corps. These experiences strengthened my foundation in technical problem-solving and collaborative service, which continue to guide my approach to surgical innovation and multidisciplinary care in reconstructive urology.

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Surgical Expertise and Innovations

I specialize in minimally invasive robotic techniques for challenging genitourinary reconstruction cases. I was among the first to describe and refine robotic ureteroplasty using buccal mucosa grafts for long-segment ureteral strictures and robotic urethroplasty for posterior urethral stenosis. 

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Procedures I commonly perform include:

• Robotic posterior urethroplasty for prostatic and membranous urethral defects

• Robotic reconstruction of ureteral strictures and injuries

• Repair of urinary fistulas and complications following trauma, radiation, pelvic surgery, or prior interventions

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Research and Academic Contributions

I am an active member of two key collaborative networks advancing the field: the Trauma and Urologic Reconstructive Network of Surgeons (TURNS) and the Collaborative of Reconstructive Robotic Ureteral Surgery (CORRUS). These multi-institutional efforts have produced high-impact data on surgical outcomes and technique refinement.

I have authored or co-authored more than 200 peer-reviewed publications on urologic trauma, stricture management, and reconstructive techniques. I contributed as a co-author to the American Urological Association (AUA) guidelines on Male Urethral Stricture Disease and regularly present at national and international meetings.

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Leadership and Teaching

At NYU Langone, I am committed to training the next generation of surgeons through resident and fellow education, clinical mentorship, and research supervision. Educating colleagues in advanced reconstructive methods remains one of the most fulfilling aspects of my career.

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Education and Training

• MD — Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine (2006)

• Urology Residency — McGaw Medical Center of Northwestern University (2012)

• Fellowship in Reconstructive Urology — University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center (2013)

• MS in Biomedical Engineering (prior to medical school)

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I welcome dialogue with colleagues regarding complex cases, research collaborations, referrals, or second opinions in reconstructive urology. Educational videos demonstrating techniques and case discussions are available on my YouTube channel (@lee_c_zhao) and this site.