“The greatest fear is not the disease itself, but not having the right care when it matters most.”
When a condition becomes serious, the quality of surgical care can make all the difference. Without the right expert hand, procedures become more difficult, recovery takes longer, and the chances of a full recovery decline.
That is why the approach to surgery matters. It is not just about treatment, but about reducing suffering and helping patients return to a normal life. The difference is clearly seen in places where this level of care is available and where it is not.
It is easy to notice the difference between hospitals where such expertise exists and those where it doesn’t.
At the heart of it all is one simple question:
Can this person truly get their life back?
For Sharona B. Ross, Professor of Surgery at the University of Central Florida (UCF) and a Director of Minimally Invasive Surgery at AdventHealth Tampa, that question shapes everything she does.
Her work focuses on complex conditions of the digestive system, pancreas, esophagus, stomach, adrenals, small bowel where decisions must be precise and outcomes matter deeply.
She uses advanced minimally invasive and robotic techniques to help patients experience:
- Less surgical pain
- Faster recovery
- Lower risk procedures
- Better long-term outcomes
Beyond surgery, she leads training programs and surgical teams, helping shape future surgeons while improving how care is delivered.
Her impact is best seen in patients who return to normal life after difficult conditions. Many who once faced limited options are now able to recover and reunite with their families.
This level of care is reflected in her recognition as a Patient Preferred Surgeon, a title earned through trust and consistent patient outcomes.
Early Life and Experiences
Dr. Ross’s journey to surgical excellence began in Ashdod, Israel, where a young (12 years old) girl’s fascination with the television show “Quincy” sparked a pursuit of medicine few at that age could imagine. Lacking access to traditional mentors, it was through her mother’s network where she found her first opportunity in pathology. Even as a preteen, Dr. Ross’s blend of curiosity and determination set her apart, and soon, her research into breast cancer among Ashkenazi and Sephardic Jews revealed a truth: she preferred action to observation. That’s when she made her move from the pathology lab to the operating room.
Throughout her youth, Dr. Ross’s days were filled with music composition, band rehearsals, hospital rotations, and academic pursuits, a lifestyle that would foreshadow her later ability to juggle the demanding worlds of surgical practice, motherhood, and leadership. Her decision to pursue surgery instead of music, even after having songs aired on Israeli radio, was crystal clear: Medicine was her calling and she would not settle for less.
Growing up in Israel shaped her with a strong sense of discipline, resilience, and responsibility, values that later guided her professional path.
After finishing high school, she served for two years in the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF), fulfilling her civic duty. After serving as a medic and clinic manager in the IDF, Dr. Ross left for the United States with the person who became her husband and began a journey that defines her career today. Despite the challenges of language and culture, she graduated summa cum laude and Phi Beta Kappa from American University.
She continued on to George Washington University for her medical degree, excelling academically and graduating AOA as she raised a growing family. Her four children were not obstacles but integral to her journey, and her ability to plan pregnancies and life events around her training years reflects her signature approach: detailed planning, strategic decision-making, and a refusal to let societal expectations limit her ambitions.
Her surgical career commenced with Olympus, Covidien, and Stryker, focusing on pioneering innovations in single-port laparoscopic techniques. From there, she broadened her professional network to include industry leaders such as Intuitive Surgical, Medtronic, Johnson & Johnson, among many others.
Dr. Ross’s philosophy is clear: “If you want something to happen, you have to make it happen.” This mindset, honed from years of turning “no” into “yes,” has fueled her pioneering work in robotic surgery. By focusing on minimizing trauma and improving patient recovery, Dr. Ross has become a leader in advanced surgical techniques, including minimally invasive and single-incision procedures.
Her hands-on work with innovative technologies and her collaboration with major companies such as Olympus have positioned her at the forefront of surgical innovation. Now a key member of the advisory board for Intuitive Surgical and a contributor to groundbreaking efforts training robots for less invasive surgery, Dr. Ross’s expertise is shaping the direction of Robotic Foregut and HPB surgery.
Academic Excellence
Sharona B. Ross’s academic journey began at the American University, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology and graduated Summa Cum Laude.
She later completed her Doctor of Medicine at the George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, where she was inducted into the Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Society.
She trained in General Surgery at the University of South Florida, progressing from intern to chief resident, where she developed clinical skill and leadership together.
She further specialized through fellowships in:
- Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary and advanced minimally invasive surgery at Tampa General Hospital
- Endoscopic Gastroenterology at the University of South Florida
- Research in advanced endoscopic techniques and NOTES
She is board certified by the American Board of Surgery since 2006 and licensed in Florida. She also served as an Advanced Trauma Life Support Instructor, training medical professionals in trauma care.
Faster Recovery Through Advanced Techniques
At AdventHealth Tampa, Sharona B. Ross holds key leadership roles that directly impact patient care.
- As Director of Minimally Invasive Surgery, she leads advanced surgical techniques that reduce pain and recovery time
- As Director of Surgical Endoscopy, she focuses on precise diagnosis and treatment methods
- As Director of the Fellowship Program, she trains surgeons from around the world
- As Director of the surgical floor, she works with teams to ensure safe, high-quality patient care
She also leads specialized centers including the Mickle Center for Reflux and Esophageal Disorders and the Pancreatic Cancer Center.
Collaborated with Top Surgical Organizations
Sharona B. Ross’s involvement in professional organizations has been a meaningful part of her career, where she has contributed not just as a member but as someone helping shape the future of surgery. Over the years, she has worked with leading national and international surgical bodies, taking on leadership and collaborative roles.
She has served as the President of the Society of Laparoendoscopic & Robotic Surgeons for 2025 and in 2024 she held the role of President at the Society of Robotic Surgery. Also served as the Honorary Vice President of the Southeastern Surgical Congress, where she supported efforts in surgical education and professional collaboration.
In addition, she is actively involved with respected organizations such as the Society of American Gastrointestinal and Endoscopic Surgeons, the American College of Surgeons, the American Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Association, and the Society for Surgery of the Alimentary Tract.
Her work within these groups includes contributing to committees focused on technology, innovation, education, oncology, and surgical standards. Through these roles, she collaborates with global experts, helps guide best practices, and supports the safe use of new surgical technologies in patient care. At the same time, she mentors younger surgeons and keeps the focus on improving patient outcomes across the field.
A Strong Commitment to Research and Medical Progress
Research has always been central to her work. Her contributions include:
- Over 245 peer-reviewed publications
- Over 20 surgical book chapters
- More than 200 national and international presentations
- Over 240 operative video presentations
- Over 100 media interviews and features
She also serves on editorial boards of major journals including Annals of Surgery and Surgical Endoscopy.
Her focus is simple: make surgery safer, more precise, and more effective.
Women in Surgery Initiative and Career Symposium
Sharona B. Ross started the Women in Surgery Initiative in 2009 to address a clear gap, fewer women choosing surgery even though many study medicine. Surgery is often seen as demanding, male-dominated, and hard to balance with personal life. Because of this, many women hesitate to pursue it, even when they are capable.
The initiative was created to change this by giving women a supportive space to learn about surgery. It offers mentorship, guidance, and real exposure to the field. By connecting students with experienced surgeons, it helps them understand the career better and build confidence to pursue it.
The Women in Surgery Career Symposium continues this effort through practical learning. It brings students and surgeons together so they can see real surgical work, ask questions, and understand different career paths. It also helps clear common doubts about surgery and shows it as a supportive and growing field.
Together, both the initiative and symposium help students, especially young women, see that a career in surgery is possible with the right guidance and support.
Understanding firsthand the logistical and cultural barriers women face, Dr. Ross recently also launched a community-driven app designed to connect aspiring female surgeons with mentors, research opportunities, and peer support to make finding guidance and building networks in a field where women have often felt isolated easier than ever before.
To join the Women in Surgery & Innovation APP:
- iOS– https://apps.apple.com/in/app/women-in-surgery/id6755475866
- Android- https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.womeninsurgery
Dr. Ross’s perspective on balancing career and family is refreshingly pragmatic. She encourages her mentees to plan parenting during their training, when support systems exist and flexibility is possible, rather than waiting for their attending years, when career pressures peak. Her approach bucks conventional wisdom, proving that with careful planning and the right support, women can lead in surgery without sacrificing family or personal fulfillment.
A Critical Case
One of the most difficult cases handled by Sharona B. Ross involved a patient whose very large cancer at the head of the pancreas and duodenum had to be removed prior to neoadjuvant chemotherapy due to GI bleeding from the tumor. The situation was critical and left little room for error.
The risks were high. Removing such a large tumor meant there was a real concern for vascular involvement and hemorrhage.
Handling a case like this required more than technical skill. It demanded careful planning, close coordination, and strong teamwork. Every step, from preoperative imaging to decisions during the procedure, had to be handled with precision.
Despite the complexity, the surgery was successful. What made the case truly meaningful was the patient’s recovery. They were able to recover completely and return to a normal quality of life.
Cases like this highlight the value of preparation, innovation, and teamwork. They show that even in the most difficult situations, the right expertise can make a life-changing difference.
A Book That Shares Strength, Recovery, and Moving Forward
Her forthcoming book, “Sustainable Excellence: A New Model for Success for Women in Medicine, Leadership, and High-Pressure Careers,” set for release in October 2026, promises an honest exploration of her journey. Drawing lessons from her own triumphs and setbacks, including a recent life-changing accident, Dr. Ross invites high-achieving women to consider the value of balance, well-being, and meaningful connection, alongside professional success.
Now recovered and more committed than ever to her vision, Dr. Ross continues to teach, operate, and inspire. Her message is straightforward: Success is not about luck or waiting for opportunities; it is about taking intentional steps, building strong support systems, setting clear expectations, and refusing to let setbacks deter progress.
Awards and Recognitions
Over the course of Sharona B. Ross’s career, she has received numerous awards and recognitions that reflect her dedication to patient care, innovation, and leadership in surgery.
Some of the notable recognitions include:
- Patient-Preferred Surgeon (2020 to 2026)
- Top Surgeon in Gastroenterology
- Top Doctor Award
- Top Surgeon in Tampa Award
- AWS Empowered Women in Medicine Award
- Nina Starr Braunwald Award
- Distinguished Service Award
- Tampa City Council Commendation
In recognition of her dedication to patient-centered care, Dr. Ross was honored as the Patient Preferred Surgeon Representing Florida in 2020-2026. She is distinguished by Continental Who’s Who as a Top Surgeon in Gastroenterology for her expertise as an advanced Foregut (Upper GI) and HepatoPancreaticoBiliary (HPB) surgeon at the Digestive Institute at AdventHealth Tampa.
Over the course of her career, she has received numerous awards, including the Top Doctor Award, Top Surgeon in Tampa Award, AWS Empowered Women in Medicine Award, B.E.S.T. Program Award, Top Industry Awards, Patient Preferred Top Surgeon Award, AWS Foundation Nina Starr Braunwald Award, Republican National Convention Designated Surgeon Award, American Society of Abdominal Surgeons Distinguished Service Award, Tampa City Council Commendation, and the USF Women in Surgery Initiative Southeastern Surgical Congress Gold Medal Forum Award.
In 2025, she received the TOP 50 MOST DISTINGUISHED PROFESSIONALS IN MEDICINE AWARD and was acknowledged by Inner Circle as Woman of the Year 2025. In 2026, she received the Prestigious Honor of Doctor of the Year 2026 from Close-Up TV News and Continental Who’s Who recognized her as a Distinguished Woman of the Year 2026 in The Inner Circle.
While these recognitions highlight her work, what truly matters is the impact behind them. Her focus has always been on improving patient outcomes, advancing surgical practice, and inspiring the next generation of surgeons. At the core of her work is a simple belief: a genuine commitment to caring for people, supported by continuous learning and innovation.
Life Outside Surgery
Outside of her demanding surgical and leadership roles, Sharona B. Ross places strong importance on maintaining balance through her personal life. Spending time with her family remains central to her, offering a sense of grounding and support. Her children, Eran, Nicole, Stephanie, and Justin, continue to be a source of inspiration in her journey.
She also makes time for activities that help her stay focused and refreshed. Horseback riding and skeet shooting are among her interests, both of which require discipline and precision, qualities that reflect in her professional work as well. She also enjoys playing golf, which gives her a mix of relaxation and challenge.
She shares a close bond with her dog, Roger, a Rhodesian Ridgeback, who is an important part of her everyday life. These personal interests help her recharge and maintain a sense of balance, allowing her to return to her work with clarity, energy, and dedication.
Strong Focus on Patient Care
Sharona B. Ross approaches her work with a strong focus on patient care at its core. Every decision she makes is guided by what is best for the patient, ensuring that care remains thoughtful, safe, and centered around individual needs.
Throughout her career, she has embraced new surgical techniques and technologies with a clear purpose. Her goal has always been to improve the quality of care, make procedures safer, and help patients recover better. She combines technical precision with genuine compassion, so patients receive advanced treatment and personal attention and understanding.
She also places great importance on teamwork. By working closely with nurses, surgical teams, and industry experts, she helps create an environment where patients benefit from the most effective and reliable surgical care.
For her, excellence in surgery goes beyond skill. It is about continuous learning, adapting to better methods, and always putting the patient’s well-being first.
Advise For Aspiring Surgeons and Young Professionals
Sharona B. Ross encourages aspiring surgeons and young professionals to stay focused, determined, and committed to continuous learning. Her own journey, from serving in the Israeli Defense Forces to becoming a globally recognized surgeon, reflects the value of discipline, resilience, and dedication.
She believes that embracing innovation is essential and encourages young professionals to stay open to new technologies that can improve patient outcomes. At the same time, she places strong importance on mentorship, collaboration, and building meaningful professional relationships.
She is also deeply committed to supporting women in medicine. Through initiatives like the Women in Surgery Career Symposium, she works to challenge outdated perceptions and create more opportunities for women in surgery. She encourages young women to pursue their goals with confidence and to build a successful career and a fulfilling personal life.
Her message is simple and clear: stay true to your purpose, keep learning, support others, and always put people first.
Dr. Sharona B. Ross’s 5 Impactful Business Mantras
- Right care at the right time changes everything in patient outcomes.
- Precision and expertise are the foundation of safe and successful surgery.
- Advanced technology must always serve faster recovery and better healing.
- True impact comes from combining innovation with compassionate patient care.
- Strong overall outcomes are built through teamwork, training, continuous learning, and balance of life and career
