A Man with a Mission
January 30, 2008 | 
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Ron W. Pelton, M.D., Ph.D., is a specialist in cosmetic and reconstructive surgery of the eyelids, eyebrows, and face. Informally, he describes himself as a father and as a physician. All of the preceding descriptors are correct. However, our readers need to know that Ron W. Pelton is a unique human being who has created a singular practice that blends science of medicine with the art of improving people’s self-image inside and out.
Ron Pelton told us that he “came by the study of medicine naturally,” as a young student in Arkansas. His sixth-grade teacher encouraged his talent, and from then on the path to further study took root. The combination of his father’s mechanical skills as a craftsman and his mother’s people skills provided a perfect base from which to begin his medical career.
The journey from Arkansas high-school student to international authority in his field took a series of interesting turns. Ron’s sixth-grade teacher receives credit for having recognized his skills in science. The Vanderbilt University M.D./Ph.D program had the good sense to accept him on full scholarship within their program. His mentors provided him with advice that he practices on a daily basis.
Ron learned much from Professor Alice Hines. He gives her an A+ for “telling it like it is.” Professor Hines recommended that he study a foreign language to improve his English, and for sure to “listen to the evening news.” Hal Moses and Tom Goodwin, charismatic as mentors, and inspirational as friends, shared what would become Ron’s mantra as a physician and as a scholar. “Be excited and encourage those around you to be excited as well!”
“It is easy to lose one’s love for medicine” if one forgets that the science of medicine is “only a part of what this thing is,” Ron said. “It’s all about a being a partner in the wellness process. My people [office personnel] ‘get it.’ I have never missed a single school function with my children. We do 90% of our activities as a family. We carry the ‘care card.’”
Academic interests took Ron far from his roots in Arkansas. He “found his question” in East Berlin as a graduate student, studied in London, and discovered that “trials by fire make for clearer intent.” At this juncture in his career he focused upon oculoplastics, and facial reconstruction that requires a artist’s touch and a physician’s mastery and an artist’s hand.
Only 20 per cent of his clients come to him for cosmetic reconstruction. The majority require reconstructive procedures, the most difficult being disfiguration from aggravated wounds. Ron told us that surgical reconstruction for those who have experienced serious traumatic injury gives him a sense of the greatest satisfaction.
Ron’s office is his universe. Entering Suite 309 at 455 East Pikes Peak Avenue in Colorado Springs one immediately notices a singular difference in atmosphere, ambiance, and assistants who greet prospective patients. No glass separates patient from assistant. The ladies do not wear uniforms. The furniture reflects attention to “people comfort”. Ron’s framed certificates provide a chronological snapshot of his academic and professional career. All this occurs in an environment that signals, “We are here to help you.” Prospective clients may enter Ron’s office a bit worried, but “they come out smiling.”
Ron W. Pelton’s awards are many; his talent is world-renowned; his dedication to a job well done is a daily mission. He is a physician’s physician and a caring human being. Colorado Springs is a better place for having him in our midst. Tom, wife Wendy, children Lee and Laney have made Colorado Springs their home, and The Record+ is honored to celebrate them with our readers.
If you wish more information about Ron and his work, you may find it on his website: http://www.drpelton.com.
- M
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