John Zhao, MD

Biography

Dr. John Zhao is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Orthopedic Surgery at McGovern Medical School at UTHealth Houston.

Dr. Zhao specializes in Foot and Ankle surgery with clinical interests in minimally invasive techniques, reconstructive surgery, fracture care, arthroscopic surgery, and total ankle replacement. He utilizes evidence-based medicine to optimize both operative and nonoperative care for all foot and ankle pathologies. One of his keen interests is in advancement of minimally invasive techniques, using smaller incisions than traditional open techniques to accomplish the same surgical goals, potentially improving patient outcomes, decreasing postoperative pain, and reducing scarring.

Dr. Zhao is a native of the Southwest Houston community. He grew up in Sugar Land, Texas where he attended William P. Clements High School. After graduating salutatorian, he attended Harvard College for his undergraduate education where he graduated Magna Cum Laude with Thesis Highest Honors. He then received his medical degree from Harvard Medical School. Dr. Zhao remained in Boston for five years of orthopedic residency training, graduating from the Harvard Combined Orthopedic Residency Program. Following residency, Dr. Zhao pursued a one-year subspecialty fellowship in Foot and Ankle Surgery at the Campbell Clinic in Memphis, Tennessee. After many years away from home, Dr. Zhao is excited and honored to be able to serve the community in which he grew up.

He is a member of the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons and the American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society. He enjoys sports, exercise, and travel in his spare time. Dr. Zhao is proficient in both English and Mandarin.