Dr. Teri N. Moak, Women’s Health Warrior and Holistic Healer
At the crossroads of science, art and creativity stands Teri N. Moak, MD, with an extraordinary talent for plastic surgery. A devoted breast cancer advocate, she believes true strength lies in living with purpose—and hers is to serve others. Raised in a small Southern town where many women chose to focus on family, Moak knew her path would look different. By embracing both a fulfilling career and family life, she found the freedom to thrive on her own terms.
What do you think is the secret to aging gracefully?
Being happy! Part of my mission is to encourage people to embrace the aging process. Yes, there are some ways we can slow the evidence of aging. However, smile and laugh lines demonstrate a life well lived. Stretch marks from pregnancy are evidence of the sacrifice made in loving a child. And silver hair is downright trendy! I believe people who are happy, nourished, mindful and authentic age the most beautifully.
How do you apply your unique skill set to patient care?
In short, I treat each person like family. My goal is to help them first recognize their inherent, unique beauty and to focus on what makes each of us different and exceptional. I believe that medicine is a vehicle for serving others, so I want every patient to know that I am truly invested in all aspects of their experience. My hope is that, in doing so, I will deliver exceptional care and form lifelong relationships. While I love medicine and performing surgery, the true joy that I find in my work is the ability to change someone’s life for the better.
What is your favorite way to give back to your community?
I focus on supporting comprehensive breast cancer care, advocating for women and children who are survivors of domestic violence and empowering minorities to enter the field of science and medicine. As I grow my medical practice further in Atlanta, I hope to be able to provide pro-bono reconstructive surgeries. I also continue to serve on both women’s committees as well as diversity, equity and inclusion committees.
What impact do you hope to leave on the world?
I think most of us have people in life who have truly changed us for the better. If I can be that for even one person, I will have left a legacy that lives on through them. I hope that, whether through medicine, philanthropic work or simply being a good friend, I will have lived my life in such a way that I leave others touched, moved and inspired.
