1957–2025
Ronald L. Moy, MD was an American dermatologist and cosmetic surgeon who transformed dermatologic surgery through his leadership and technical expertise. Born on June 10, 1957, Dr. Moy became one of the world’s foremost authorities in skin cancer treatment and facial plastic surgery.
He completed his dermatology residency at UCLA and went on to a prestigious fellowship in Mohs micrographic surgery and cosmetic surgery. Dr. Moy was a professor at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, where he also served as Co-Chief of the Dermatology Division and Chief of Dermatologic Surgery. In these roles, he trained and mentored countless residents and fellows, instilling in them his passion for innovation and patient-centered care.
Dr. Moy’s career was marked by an unwavering commitment to advancing his specialty. He performed over 30,000 Mohs micrographic surgeries, refining techniques to remove skin cancers with maximum precision and minimal scarring. As a cosmetic surgeon, he was an early adopter of laser resurfacing, advanced facial plastic procedures, and other aesthetic innovations that improved patients’ quality of life. He published more than 200 scientific articles and served as Editor-in-Chief of the journal Dermatologic Surgery, helping to disseminate new knowledge in the field. His outstanding contributions were recognized with the Samuel J. Stegman Award for Distinguished Service by the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery.
A natural leader, Dr. Ronald Moy held top posts in several professional organizations. He was President of the American Academy of Dermatology in 2011–2012 and also led the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery and the American Board of Facial Cosmetic Surgery. In these roles, he promoted high standards for clinical practice and ethics, and advocated for patient safety and education nationwide. Dr. Moy’s influence extended beyond the clinic and classroom: he volunteered for over 25 years treating uninsured patients at the Venice Family Clinic, exemplifying generosity and community service.
Dr. Moy passed away on June 23, 2025, but his legacy endures in the thriving practice he founded and the many physicians he trained. Colleagues remember him as a visionary surgeon whose optimism and skill pushed dermatology forward. His innovations in skin cancer surgery and cosmetic dermatology have changed countless patients’ lives for the better, earning him a well-deserved place in the Dermatology Hall of Fame.
