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Sarah R. Akkina
( out of 128 reviews )

Sarah R. Akkina, MD, MSc

Languages spoken: English

Clinical Locations

Primary Location

Imaging & Neurosciences Center

729 Arapeen Dr
Salt Lake City , UT 84108

Midvalley Health Center Dermatology

Dermatology
243 East 6100 South
Murray , UT 84107

South Jordan Health Center

Otolaryngology/ENT
5126 West Daybreak Parkway
South Jordan , UT 84009

Sarah Akkina, MD, MS, is an Assistant Professor and serves as Division Chief for Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery within the Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery at University of Utah Health. Dr. Akkina’s clinical interests include functional and cosmetic rhinoplasty, aging face (including surgical treatments and injectables), facial trauma, cancer reconstruction, facial nerve damage, congenital anomalies, including microtia, and vascular malformations.

Dr. Akkina is a Stanford fellowship-trained Facial Plastic and Reconstructive surgeon and a board-certified Otolaryngology - Head and Neck surgeon. Her passion for personalized patient care and surgical excellence helps her provide an exceptional experience for her patients. Dr. Akkina also teaches advanced surgical trainees and performs research in the field of facial plastic surgery focused on automating image analysis and improving clinical outcomes.

While Dr. Akkina is a Colorado native, she left the region after high school to study and train throughout the country. She is an Ivy League alumna of the University of Pennsylvania, a medical school alumna of the University of Michigan, and a residency graduate from the University of Washington. She is thrilled to finally return to the mountain west to provide clinical care and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.

For appointments, please call 801-585-FACE (3223)

Board Certification

American Board of Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery
American Board of Otolaryngology

Patient Rating

4.9 /5
( out of 128 reviews )

The patient rating score is an average of all responses on our patient experience survey. The rating averages scores for all questions about care from our providers. The scale on which responses are measured is 1 to 5 with 5 being the best score.


May 20, 2026
CLINICAL NEUROSCIENCES CENTER

She was concerned about the pain but no pain she did great

May 14, 2026
CLINICAL NEUROSCIENCES CENTER

Far above average professionalism. Extremely considerate of disabled (autistic) population. FAR better care and outcome than Dr. Goodenough!

May 08, 2026
CLINICAL NEUROSCIENCES CENTER

Dr. Akkina is wonderful, always so pleasant, caring and professional.

May 06, 2026
CLINICAL NEUROSCIENCES CENTER

Wonderful physician

Apr 15, 2026
CLINICAL NEUROSCIENCES CENTER

Brilliant thoughtful incisive' Careful observations, precise explanations

Mar 27, 2026
SOUTH JORDAN HEALTH CENTER

Great Doctor of tmh and facial.

Mar 23, 2026
CLINICAL NEUROSCIENCES CENTER

Dr. Akkina is absolutely amazing. I needed to have one of my nostrils reconstructed due to collapse and after meeting with three previous surgeons at the U, I found Dr. A. She is so kind and personable and made me feel comfortable when I was anxious about having surgery. Both her bed side manner and surgerical skills are unparalleled. I hope I never need surgery again, but if I do I know I am in great hands.

Mar 20, 2026
CLINICAL NEUROSCIENCES CENTER

I am looking forward to DR Akkina doing this surgery, and getting my nose back straightened to what she has to work with.

Mar 16, 2026
SOUTH JORDAN HEALTH CENTER

Excellent Plastic Surgeon!!!

Feb 27, 2026
CLINICAL NEUROSCIENCES CENTER

Dr. Akkina and her team have gone above and beyond in helping to get me the treatment and care I have so desperately needed. Working through appeals to my insurance and always going above and beyond for me as a patient.

Feb 11, 2026
CLINICAL NEUROSCIENCES CENTER

Dr. Akkina explained things with great clarity and precision. She was exceptionally perceptive.

Feb 08, 2026
SOUTH JORDAN HEALTH CENTER

Dr Akinna is very knowledgeable and cares about her patients.

Dec 23, 2025
CLINICAL NEUROSCIENCES CENTER

So far I like Dr. Sarah and look forward to meet with her to continue my care

Dec 07, 2025
CLINICAL NEUROSCIENCES CENTER

If you are interested in a deep plane face and neck lift, you should seriously consider Dr. Akkina. Her bedside manner and expertise are unparalleled.

Nov 26, 2025
CLINICAL NEUROSCIENCES CENTER

I did a lot of research before I met with Dr. Akkina. Her patient manner was exceptional. She gave me her full attention, listened with real care, and understood not just the functional concerns I wanted to solve but how these cosmetic issues affect how I show up in the world. I felt comforted and confident in her presence. She explained my options clearly and encouraged beginning with the smallest, most natural steps.

Nov 14, 2025
CLINICAL NEUROSCIENCES CENTER

very pleased with excellent care given to me.

Nov 08, 2025
CLINICAL NEUROSCIENCES CENTER

Dr Akkina has been very helpful and professional

Oct 13, 2025
SOUTH JORDAN HEALTH CENTER

Dr. Akkina is very professional and obviously has the best care of her patients as her greatest attribute. A very skillful surgeon as well.

Oct 09, 2025
CLINICAL NEUROSCIENCES CENTER

She can be TRUSTED to take care of you!

Oct 05, 2025
SOUTH JORDAN HEALTH CENTER

Unlike most surgical specialties, plastic surgery requires artistic sensibilities as well as surgical knowledge and skill. Dr Akina gets an A plus in all those categories. In addition, she demonstrates an attitude of caring and compassion for her patients that is rare in any specialty. I would highly,recommend her to anyone needing plastic surgery on the eyes and face.

Oct 01, 2025
CLINICAL NEUROSCIENCES CENTER

Dr Akkina is so personable and professional- great combination.

Sep 30, 2025
CLINICAL NEUROSCIENCES CENTER

Dr Akkina is as good a doctor as I have had in recent years. She was able to correct damage done by others during past procedures. She did everything very well and continues to follow through. I've grown to have a great deal of respect for her personally and professionally. Good at what she does! Her staff team are her equal.

Sep 14, 2025
SOUTH JORDAN HEALTH CENTER

Dr. Akkina is so personable and knowledgeable! Women surgeons rock!

Sep 08, 2025
SOUTH JORDAN HEALTH CENTER

I am very pleased to be under her care. I look forward to working with her. She put me at ease and explained things thoroughly. Very grateful!

Sep 07, 2025
SOUTH JORDAN HEALTH CENTER

I am very happy because Dr. Akkina treated me very well, excellent service, thank you very much Dr. Akkina for helping me, I recommend her. [TRANSLATED]

Aug 28, 2025
CLINICAL NEUROSCIENCES CENTER

We had a small concern, but she explained the situation and we set a date for 6 months out to see if there were positive changes. She reassured us that our concerns were valid, but a natural part of the healing.

Aug 27, 2025
CLINICAL NEUROSCIENCES CENTER

Wonderfully kind, caring, pleasant, professional group

Aug 21, 2025
CLINICAL NEUROSCIENCES CENTER

Dr. Akkina is friendly, professional, knowledgeable and competent. Excellent doctor.

Aug 21, 2025
CLINICAL NEUROSCIENCES CENTER

What a delightful, competent doctor. She performed excellent surgery on my friend and I trust her abilities.

Aug 21, 2025
CLINICAL NEUROSCIENCES CENTER

Dr Akkina is very very Professional, good listener and very knowledgeable about all aspects of her job. She is very respectful and very helpful

Aug 21, 2025
SOUTH JORDAN HEALTH CENTER

She is very professional and great at understanding patient wants, then comparing that with what can be done. Explains in detail. Respectful and honest. Best of all, no pressure to make a quick decision.

Aug 18, 2025
SOUTH JORDAN HEALTH CENTER

Dr. Akkina is the consumate professional. I am forever grateful for her skills that provided an excellent outcome. At the same time, she is so very kind and professional.

Jul 17, 2025
CLINICAL NEUROSCIENCES CENTER

Excellent Doctor that really cares for her patients weelbeing!

Jul 13, 2025
SOUTH JORDAN HEALTH CENTER

Dr Akkina is an outstanding surgeon who cares about the concerns of patient, proving recommendations for healing.

Jul 03, 2025
CLINICAL NEUROSCIENCES CENTER

Very personable, professional and caring

Jun 08, 2025
CLINICAL NEUROSCIENCES CENTER

Dr. Akkina is an excellent reconstructive surgeon. She truly cares for her patients.

Jun 02, 2025
SOUTH JORDAN HEALTH CENTER

Should you be so lucky as to receive Dr Akkina as your healthcare provider, you have reached the peak of medical care.

Jun 02, 2025
SOUTH JORDAN HEALTH CENTER

Dr. Akkina is a highly skilled professional that understands my case and needs, making recommendations helping the healing process. She works well with her staff.

Jun 02, 2025
SOUTH JORDAN HEALTH CENTER

Such a wonderful person. One of the best Doctors I have ever dealt with.

May 19, 2025
SOUTH JORDAN HEALTH CENTER

Dr. Akkina is amazing! Not only do I have total confidence in her as a surgeon, she had a very calming demeanor

May 01, 2025
CLINICAL NEUROSCIENCES CENTER

HIGHLY recommend Dr. Akkina! This was my 3rd consultation and she was so knowledgeable and kind. She didn't make me feel like a number. I felt like someone she truly cared about. She answered all of my wand made me feel at ease about my upcoming procedure.

Apr 27, 2025
CLINICAL NEUROSCIENCES CENTER

She is very kind

Mar 31, 2025
SOUTH JORDAN HEALTH CENTER

Dr. Akkina exceptionally professional and considerate of her patients. She communicates well with her patients and family members, so that we can understand the why & how of her planned care.

Mar 21, 2025
CLINICAL NEUROSCIENCES CENTER

Dr Akkina is a true professional and cares deeply for her patients. Always concerned about my health and well being, she makes sure I understand the process and always offers solutions and shares the progress we have made in what was a difficult facial repair. I am in good hands with Dr Akkina

Mar 10, 2025
SOUTH JORDAN HEALTH CENTER

I expected to hear more details on treatment options which didn't happen. Some questions we're specifically not answered even though I asked several times. Thus did not instill confidence in her experience or skill level.

Feb 03, 2025
SOUTH JORDAN HEALTH CENTER

She's a very nice individual, and I trust her very much with the reconstruction of my nose to hve a great outcome

Jan 20, 2025
SOUTH JORDAN HEALTH CENTER

Dr Akkina is very knowledgeable and personable. My visit was everything I'd hoped for.

Jan 20, 2025
SOUTH JORDAN HEALTH CENTER

Dr.Akkina is a very caring indavidual, you can tell she loves what she does, and helping people.

Oct 06, 2024
CLINICAL NEUROSCIENCES CENTER

I would have to saythe best of the best¿.very good at what she does and very considerate of patients. How do you top that?

Oct 02, 2024
CLINICAL NEUROSCIENCES CENTER

Dr. Akkina is an amazing physician.

Sep 19, 2024
CLINICAL NEUROSCIENCES CENTER

I selected Dr. Akkina for my deep-plane facelift because she took the time to explain the procedure, met with me several times to address questions and seemed confident and capable. I like that the care was received in a hospital, because though the procedure is cosmetic, it was still a significant surgery. I like that she isn't a general plastic surgeon, but specializes in the facial structure to get the proper results for a facial surgery (rather than a breast or tummy or whatever). I am a week out and so far, so good.

Sep 03, 2024
SOUTH JORDAN HEALTH CENTER

Dr Akkina is a wonderful Doctor. She listens and remembers what I am doing.

Sep 03, 2024
SOUTH JORDAN HEALTH CENTER

A true professional!

Sep 03, 2024
SOUTH JORDAN HEALTH CENTER

She was very knowledgeable and kind. Listened to my concerns. Answered my questions. I left her office feeling relieved that everything was ok.

Jul 31, 2024
CLINICAL NEUROSCIENCES CENTER

Dr. Alkina is one of the finest physicians (surgeons) I've ever met. She is highly skilled. She communicates clearly in a manner which is easy to understand. She genuinely cares about me. She manages her staff calmly and in such a way that builds confidence and challenges them to grow. Her approach to her work is truly professional. She has high expectations for herself and her staff. I am so grateful Dr. Akkina was recommended to me by my Mohs surgeon.

Jul 14, 2024
SOUTH JORDAN HEALTH CENTER

Dr. Akkina was engaging, professional, totally focused on my issue, patient, compassionate, and kind. She is an impressive physician and person.

Jun 30, 2024
SOUTH JORDAN HEALTH CENTER

Top Notch

Jun 05, 2024
CLINICAL NEUROSCIENCES CENTER

Tells it like it is. Understanding and patient.

May 20, 2024
SOUTH JORDAN HEALTH CENTER

Dr Akinna is very attentive and takes the time to listen to and address any questions and concerns that I have. I would highly recommend her professional skills and ability to anyone.

May 19, 2024
SOUTH JORDAN HEALTH CENTER

Dr. Akkina was one of the best doctors I have ever had. She is the nicest doctor I have ever had. She was respectful to me and the other nurses and assistants she worked with. I was impressed and grateful for her.

May 01, 2024
CLINICAL NEUROSCIENCES CENTER

she was very good at explaining what needed to be done and how she would do it. Very nice also.

Mar 31, 2024
SOUTH JORDAN HEALTH CENTER

Very professional -- genuinely caring

Mar 20, 2024
CLINICAL NEUROSCIENCES CENTER

Sarah Akkina, MD is a most awesome doctor and person. I aways look forward to seeing her.

Mar 06, 2024
CLINICAL NEUROSCIENCES CENTER

Dr Annika listened to me and has helped me improve my quality of life.

Mar 05, 2024
SOUTH JORDAN HEALTH CENTER

Dr Akkina is truly brilliant in working with head/neck cancer patients and restoring their appearance. She is a calming, thoughtful, and kind influence through the treatment process.

Feb 20, 2024
SOUTH JORDAN HEALTH CENTER

I loved her! She did a thorough job explaining procedures to me. Her treatment suggestions were very beneficial and helped greatly. Her bedside manner was reassuring and calming.

Feb 18, 2024
SOUTH JORDAN HEALTH CENTER

She was knowledgeable about the procedure necessary regarding my medical needs.

Feb 07, 2024
CLINICAL NEUROSCIENCES CENTER

Dr. Akkina is brilliant, articulate, and kind - a truly winning combination. Thank you!

Feb 04, 2024
SOUTH JORDAN HEALTH CENTER

Dr. Akkina is a caring, very knowledgeable person. She has read all the notes from the other doctors that have written about my care. Thank you.

Jan 30, 2024
SOUTH JORDAN HEALTH CENTER

Dr. Akkina made me feel comfortable and answered all of my questions. I highly recommend her.

Jan 29, 2024
SOUTH JORDAN HEALTH CENTER

She was very informative, friendly and listen very well to me and answered all my questions. I will definitely go to her again.

Jan 29, 2024
CLINICAL NEUROSCIENCES CENTER

Dr Akkina has a way with head and neck cancer patients! I trust her 200% to make recommendations that will really make a difference in both functionality and appearance due to the facial disfigurement caused by my cancer. This is huge.

Jan 27, 2024
CLINICAL NEUROSCIENCES CENTER

Dr. Akkina addressed my questions and concerns with care and understanding. She detailed the evaluation of my treatments and condition ensuring I understand the progress. I'm happy about my progress, and it is good that no further visits or care are needed at this time.

Jan 25, 2024
CLINICAL NEUROSCIENCES CENTER

Dr. Akkina is a first rate surgeon! She has confidence in herself and those who work with her. Dr. Akkina is willing to go the extra mile to achieve successful outcomes. You are her number one priority during your appointment. She's efficient, personable, and thorough. She has developed relationships with her staff which make them feel like an important part of her team. Her gentle guidance develops their skills and motivates them to perform their best. I love University of Utah Healthcare and applaud them for attracting exceptional surgeons like Dr. Akkina.

Dec 17, 2023
SOUTH JORDAN HEALTH CENTER

Dr Akkina was very professional and helpful in answering all of my questions. She seems very sincere in wanting to help us. I will definitely recommend her to others seeking the same kind of help.

Dec 12, 2023
SOUTH JORDAN HEALTH CENTER

Dr. Akkina did an amazing job reconstructing an area on my nose after Moh's surgery. I was referred to her from my dermatologist and had surgery the same day following my Moh's procedure. She has followed my progress for a year & I am now released from her care. I would highly recommend her and already have to 2 friends that need the same treatment. She explained her recommendation before the surgery, also showing pictures of previous patient's with similar problem areas, which gave me so much more assurance on the outcome of the surgery. I couldn't be happier with the final results.

Dec 06, 2023
CLINICAL NEUROSCIENCES CENTER

Dr Akkina is very knowledgeable and helpful.

Nov 15, 2023
CLINICAL NEUROSCIENCES CENTER

Dr. Sarah Akkina and her team communicate very well. Dr. Akkina put me at ease with her answers to my questions and her explanations of what to expect. Stephanie, Kacie, and Lisbeth are pleasant and efficient.

Nov 01, 2023
CLINICAL NEUROSCIENCES CENTER

She is a thorough, thoughtful and caring Dr. I am so grateful she is my surgeon!

Oct 22, 2023
SOUTH JORDAN HEALTH CENTER

Never going back. I left in tears, I really thought I had found a Dr that would help me.

Oct 19, 2023
CLINICAL NEUROSCIENCES CENTER

Dr Akkina was professional as well as personable. She put me at ease the minute she came into the room. She answered all of my questions and and discussed a plan to move forward that was personalized to me to achieve the best outcome. I would highly recommend her.

Oct 12, 2023
CLINICAL NEUROSCIENCES CENTER

She is very good with people and I trust her skills completely.

Aug 23, 2023
CLINICAL NEUROSCIENCES CENTER

Dr Akkina is very knowledgeable and a pleasure to work with.

Aug 23, 2023
CLINICAL NEUROSCIENCES CENTER

Her surgical ability is outstanding and her care afterward has been superior!

Aug 15, 2023
SOUTH JORDAN HEALTH CENTER

A true professional in every sense. A pleasure to have as a doctor.

Aug 06, 2023
SOUTH JORDAN HEALTH CENTER

Dr Akkina provided excellent care and explained the recommended next steps carefully and thoughtfully. She was personable and considerate, as were her staff and resident.

Aug 06, 2023
SOUTH JORDAN HEALTH CENTER

She seems both competent and excellently prepared in her field. I trust her judgement in not only what to do, but when.

Jul 10, 2023
SOUTH JORDAN HEALTH CENTER

As in two previous appointments, Dr. Akkina was exceptional in making sure that all my needs were met and that the best course of action for my recovery was taken.

Jul 09, 2023
SOUTH JORDAN HEALTH CENTER

Dr. Akkina is highly skilled in plastic surgery and places her patients' needs as her top priority. She has followed my post-surgery recovery through several months and I cannot express my graditude enough.

Jul 02, 2023
SOUTH JORDAN HEALTH CENTER

I was so impressed with her that as an artist I am doing her portrait free of charge.

May 31, 2023
CLINICAL NEUROSCIENCES CENTER

The best.

May 27, 2023
CLINICAL NEUROSCIENCES CENTER

Dr Akkina is a wonderful caring surgeon. I felt very comfortable with her. She explained everything So I could understand what was going to happen.

May 25, 2023
CLINICAL NEUROSCIENCES CENTER

While the need for these services were u expected she did a great job waking us through the expectations and options and working towards a plan.

May 25, 2023
CLINICAL NEUROSCIENCES CENTER

Dr. Akkina was very professional and caring about our needs.

May 21, 2023
SOUTH JORDAN HEALTH CENTER

She is great. Blessed to be her patient.

May 17, 2023
CLINICAL NEUROSCIENCES CENTER

Frustrated with being able to get my surgery scheduled in a timely matter

May 17, 2023
CLINICAL NEUROSCIENCES CENTER

I had the opportunity to discuss my feelings with Dr. Akkina about the healing process. She listened carefully to what I was saying. We talked about the next steps to proceed. I feel confident and at ease about what was accomplished during this visit.

May 17, 2023
CLINICAL NEUROSCIENCES CENTER

We were very impressed with the patient experience she provided. She seemed genuine in her concern.

May 08, 2023
SOUTH JORDAN HEALTH CENTER

she was awesome

May 07, 2023
SOUTH JORDAN HEALTH CENTER

exceptional surgeon and knowledgeable with her patients

May 04, 2023
CLINICAL NEUROSCIENCES CENTER

Dr. Akkina explained all of the procedure to me as she worked. There were four procedures that could have been used to fix my nose and I felt confident in what was selected. Dr. Akkina explained the after surgery care. I feel very good about how my nose healed and looks..

May 03, 2023
CLINICAL NEUROSCIENCES CENTER

Sarah was wonderful. She is very friendly and knowledgeable and explained procedures so that I understood.

May 02, 2023
SOUTH JORDAN HEALTH CENTER

She was excellent in every way. Very talented and knowledgeable in her profession. She is very Optimistic and friendly. Answers any concerns and explains in a way I understand. She makes me feel like we are best friends and truly cares. She always welcomes me with a smile and makes me feel confident that I am getting the best care!

Apr 26, 2023
CLINICAL NEUROSCIENCES CENTER

She and her staff were awesome would recommend them highly.

Apr 26, 2023
CLINICAL NEUROSCIENCES CENTER

She is bright, is a great communicator, and I trust her.

Apr 22, 2023
CLINICAL NEUROSCIENCES CENTER

very professional

Apr 17, 2023
SOUTH JORDAN HEALTH CENTER

she is very compassionate and professional.

Apr 16, 2023
SOUTH JORDAN HEALTH CENTER

She is an expert and very compassionate

Apr 12, 2023
CLINICAL NEUROSCIENCES CENTER

Would not recommend

Apr 11, 2023
SOUTH JORDAN HEALTH CENTER

All I can say, is she is very professional, and very talented in the work she does. She is amazing!

Apr 11, 2023
SOUTH JORDAN HEALTH CENTER

Dr. Akkina was confident in how to help me and took the time to explain what she was going to do. She has included me in the decisions

Apr 09, 2023
SOUTH JORDAN HEALTH CENTER

She was excellent.

Apr 09, 2023
SOUTH JORDAN HEALTH CENTER

Dr. Akkina is a very caring and professioonal physician that places her patients first in caring for their needs./

Mar 15, 2023
CLINICAL NEUROSCIENCES CENTER

I felt like I was in good hands

Mar 14, 2023
CLINICAL NEUROSCIENCES CENTER

I feel listened to by her and feel confident about her knowledge and experience.

Mar 08, 2023
SOUTH JORDAN HEALTH CENTER

Dr. Akkina answered all my questions, she understands my anxiety and fear. She is confident in her decision that she could help me. She considered my concerns and also the concerns of my husband.

Mar 05, 2023
SOUTH JORDAN HEALTH CENTER

She was very kind, caring and professional. I was very pleased with her skills and results! I felt that she truly cares about her patients and helped me feel calm and confident that I would be pleased with the results. And I was very pleased! And she was very clear with what I needed to do to care for myself as I recover. She always had a smile on her face, that means a lot, and helped me feel like she understood what I was going through emotionally. Thank you so much Dr. Sarah Akkina

Mar 05, 2023
SOUTH JORDAN HEALTH CENTER

Dr Akkina went the extra mile for my son. The trauma surgeries she performed were excellent. She is kind and supportive.

Feb 13, 2023
SOUTH JORDAN HEALTH CENTER

I loved her but she didnt really explain what she wanted to do with my face and or nose to correct my face that had been shattered and Im not able to breathe and I wish I was notified about the next step

Feb 06, 2023
SOUTH JORDAN HEALTH CENTER

She listened to everything I had to say. She was very friendly and very thorough in her examination and with her explanations. I felt like her recommendations were truly in my best interest.

Feb 05, 2023
SOUTH JORDAN HEALTH CENTER

Dr. Akkina is a very compassionate and caring individual, highly skilled in her profession, and always ready to accommodate her patient when and where doing so will benefit the patient.

Jan 25, 2023
CLINICAL NEUROSCIENCES CENTER

Dr. Akkina easy friendly manner puts you at ease when discussing treatment options. She answered all my questions and I was able to make the best decisions to treat my injury.

Jan 24, 2023
SOUTH JORDAN HEALTH CENTER

she impressed me as being very interested in doing the best possible to heal me

Dec 20, 2022
CLINICAL NEUROSCIENCES CENTER

Dr. Sarah Rathnam Akkina was already familiar with the background of my medical condition when I arrived for the appointment. She took the time to discuss many options. I feel at ease and confident about the direction we decided to take.

Dec 07, 2022
CLINICAL NEUROSCIENCES CENTER

She's great

Dec 06, 2022
SOUTH JORDAN HEALTH CENTER

She was just absolutely great to work with. She is a GREAT MD!!


Patient comments are gathered from our patient experience survey and displayed in their entirety. For the convenience of our visitors, some patient comments have been translated from their original language into English while preserving their original meaning as accurately as possible. Patients are de-identified for confidentiality and patient privacy.

Sarah Akkina, MD, MS, is an Assistant Professor and serves as Division Chief for Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery within the Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery at University of Utah Health. Dr. Akkina’s clinical interests include functional and cosmetic rhinoplasty, aging face (including surgical treatments and injectables), facial trauma, cancer reconstruction, facial nerve damage, congenital anomalies, including microtia, and vascular malformations.

Dr. Akkina is a Stanford fellowship-trained Facial Plastic and Reconstructive surgeon and a board-certified Otolaryngology - Head and Neck surgeon. Her passion for personalized patient care and surgical excellence helps her provide an exceptional experience for her patients. Dr. Akkina also teaches advanced surgical trainees and performs research in the field of facial plastic surgery focused on automating image analysis and improving clinical outcomes.

While Dr. Akkina is a Colorado native, she left the region after high school to study and train throughout the country. She is an Ivy League alumna of the University of Pennsylvania, a medical school alumna of the University of Michigan, and a residency graduate from the University of Washington. She is thrilled to finally return to the mountain west to provide clinical care and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.

For appointments, please call 801-585-FACE (3223)

Board Certification and Academic Information

Academic Departments Dermatology -Adjunct Assistant Professor
Otolaryngology: Head & Neck Surgery -Assistant Professor (Clinical)
Board Certification
American Board of Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery
American Board of Otolaryngology

Education history

Undergraduate Health and Societies, International Health - University of Pennsylvania School of Arts and Sciences B.A.
Professional Medical Medicine - University of Michigan Medical School M.D.
Graduate Training Clinical Research - University of Michigan School of Public Health M.Sc.
Residency Otolaryngology - University of Washington Resident
Fellowship National Institutes of Health - Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery - University of Washington Research Fellow
Fellowship Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery - Stanford University School of Medicine Fellow

Selected Publications

Journal Article

  1. Green W, Wei EX, Akkina SR, Pepper J (2026). National Utilization of Dynamic Facial Nerve Reconstruction Procedures in Pediatric Patients. The Journal of craniofacial surgery,
  2. Kim T, Abdel-Aty Y, Akkina SR, Ator G, Ballard M, Bhayani MK, Bohm LA, Born H, Bryson P, Carroll TL, Coblens O, Collins A, DeMason CE, Dewan K, Edwards C, Fang CH, Farrell NF, Fox MG, Geelan-Hansen K, Giannoni C, Gross J, Grosz AH, Guardiani E, Hurtuk A, Ji H, Kelley R, Kita AE, Krane NA, Krishna P, Kuhn M, Lobo BC, Madden LL, Misono S, Moyhuddin N, Naunheim MR, O'Leary M, Pawar S, Purdy NC, Rabinowitz M, Rameau A, Rieth K, Ruiz JW, Scholes M, Tang AL, Tummala N, Vahabzadeh-Hagh AM, Wang J, Wilcox L, Yaremchuk K, Yu V, Giliberto J (2026). Gender and Academic Rank Disparities in Electronic Health Record Burden Among Otolaryngologists. The Laryngoscope,
  3. Huang H, Kandathil CK, Xu L, Kim CH, Akkina SR, Most S (2026). Exploring Facial Asymmetry Metrics Correlated with Pre-operative SCHNOS Scores Using AI. Plastic and reconstructive surgery,
  4. Kandathil CK, Spataro EA, Saltychev M, Kalebjian R, Patel PN, Kim CH, Akkina SR, Kimura KS, Rossi-Meyer M, Longino ES, Truong H, Most S (2026). Postoperative Pain Management in Rhinoplasty: A Double Blind Randomized Controlled Trial. Facial plastic surgery & aesthetic medicine, 26893614261429310.
  5. Karkoutli A, Kfoury P, Hemeyer B, Monroe M, Akkina S (2026). Facial Nerve Grafting after Malignant Nerve Sacrifice: Functional Outcomes with and Without Adjuvant Radiation. Facial plastic surgery & aesthetic medicine,
  6. Wei EX, Green A, Pepper JP, Akkina S (2025). Increasing Incidence of Facial Nerve Disorders in the United States from 2007 to 2022. The Laryngoscope,
  7. Johnson AW, Akkina SR, Bevans S (2025). Maxillomandibular Fixation: Understanding the Risks and Benefits of Contemporary Techniques in Adults. Facial plastic surgery & aesthetic medicine, 27(1), 98-105.
  8. Wei EX, Green A, Akkina SR*, Pepper JP* Co-senior author (2025). Facial Nerve Disorders: Sociodemographic Predictors and Temporal Trends in Dynamic Facial Reanimation in a National Administrative Claims Database. Facial plastic surgery & aesthetic medicine, 27(1), 32-38.
  9. Fullerton Z, Wei EX, Akkina SR, Kimura K, Kandathil C, Most SP (2024). Handheld Ultrasound Detection of Supratrochlear Artery in Forehead Flap Surgery: A Feasibility Study . Facial Plast Surg Aesthet Med.
  10. Okland TS, Akkina SR, Perrault D, Most S (2023). The Single-Stage Melolabial Flap for Internal Lining of Full Thickness Defects of the Nasal Ala . American journal of otolaryngology,
  11. Nguyen E, Flaherty AJ, Akkina SR, Kidwai S, Nuara M (2022). Patient-Reported Functional and Aesthetic Outcomes of Underlay Articulated Alar Rim Grafts in Functional Septorhinoplasty. Facial plastic surgery & aesthetic medicine,
  12. Akkina SR, Saurey TG, Middleton NA, Mattson NR, Brummet S, Phillips JO, Chambers CB, Moe KS, Mudumbai RC (2021). Factors Associated with Ocular Injury in Orbital Fracture Patients: Who Requires Urgent Ophthalmic Evaluation?(Epub ahead of print). Facial Plast Surg Aesthet Med.
  13. Akkina SR, Shabbir A, Lahti A, Mudumbai RC, Chambers CB, Moe KS, Phillips JO (2020). Quantifying Eye Alignment in Orbital Fracture Patients: The Digital Hess Screen. Facial Plast Surg Aesthet Med, 22(6), 427-432.
  14. Akkina SR, Kim RY, Stucken CL, Pynnonen MA, Bradford CR (2019). The current practice of open neck mass biopsy in the diagnosis of head and neck cancer: A retrospective cohort study. Laryngoscope Investig Otolaryngol, 4(1), 57-61.
  15. Akkina SR, Ma CC, Kirkham EM, Horn DL, Chen ML, Parikh SR (2018). Does drug induced sleep endoscopy-directed surgery improve polysomnography measures in children with Down Syndrome and obstructive sleep apnea? Acta Otolaryngol, 138(11), 1009-1013.
  16. Akkina SR, Kim RY, Stucken CL, Pynnonen MA, Bradford CR (2018). Is There a Difference in Staging and Treatment of Head and Neck Squamous Cell Tumors Between Tertiary Care and Community-Based Institutions? Laryngoscope Investig Otolaryngol, 3(4), 290-295.
  17. Leibman RS, Richardson MW, Ellebrecht CT, Maldini CR, Glover JA, Secreto AJ, Kulikovskaya I, Lacey SF, Akkina SR, Yi Y, Shaheen F, Wang J, Dufendach KA, Holmes MC, Collman RG, Payne AS, Riley JL (2017). Supraphysiologic control over HIV-1 replication mediated by CD8 T cells expressing a re-engineered CD4-based chimeric antigen receptor. PLoS Pathog, 13(10), e1006613.
  18. Hu S, Neff CP, Kumar DM, Habu Y, Akkina SR, Seki T, Akkina R (2017). A humanized mouse model for HIV-2 infection and efficacy testing of a single-pill triple-drug combination anti-retroviral therapy. Virology, 501, 115-118.
  19. Akkina SR, Novis SJ, Keshavarzi NR, Pynnonen MA (2016). Academic institution pilot study shows far fewer diagnoses of sinusitis than reported nationally. Laryngoscope Investig Otolaryngol, 1(5), 124-129.
  20. Patel SA, Liu JJ, Murakami CS, Berg D, Akkina SR, Bhrany AD (2016). Complication Rates in Delayed Reconstruction of the Head and Neck After Mohs Micrographic Surgery. JAMA Facial Plast Surg, 18(5), 340-6.
  21. Novis SJ, Akkina SR, Lynn S, Kern HE, Keshavarzi NR, Pynnonen MA (2016). A diagnostic dilemma: chronic sinusitis diagnosed by non-otolaryngologists. Int Forum Allergy Rhinol, 6(5), 486-90.
  22. Pynnonen MA, Lynn S, Kern HE, Novis SJ, Akkina SR, Keshavarzi NR, Davis MM (2015). Diagnosis and treatment of acute sinusitis in the primary care setting: A retrospective cohort. Laryngoscope, 125(10), 2266-72.
  23. Dombecki C, Shah MM, Eke-Usim A, Akkina SR, Ahrens M, Sturm L, Washer L, Foxman B (2015). The impact of role models on hand hygiene compliance. Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol, 36(5), 610-2.
  24. Lin GC, Akkina S, Chinn S, Prince ME, McHugh JB, Carey T, Zacharek MA (2014). Sinonasal inverted papilloma: prognostic factors with emphasis on resection margins. J Neurol Surg B Skull Base, 75(2), 140-6.
  25. Lin GC, Scheel A, Akkina S, Chinn S, Graham M, Komarck C, Walline H, McHugh JB, Prince ME, Carey TE, Zacharek MA (2013). Epidermal growth factor receptor, p16, cyclin D1, and p53 staining patterns for inverted papilloma. Int Forum Allergy Rhinol, 3(11), 885-9.
  26. Akkina R, Berges BK, Palmer BE, Remling L, Neff CP, Kuruvilla J, Connick E, Folkvord J, Gagliardi K, Kassu A, Akkina SR (2011). Humanized Rag1-/- γc-/- mice support multilineage hematopoiesis and are susceptible to HIV-1 infection via systemic and vaginal routes. PLoS One, 6(6), e20169.
  27. Berges BK, Akkina SR, Remling L, Akkina R (2010). Humanized Rag2(-/-)gammac(-/-) (RAG-hu) mice can sustain long-term chronic HIV-1 infection lasting more than a year. Virology, 397(1), 100-3.
  28. Berges BK, Akkina SR, Folkvord JM, Connick E, Akkina R (2008). Mucosal transmission of R5 and X4 tropic HIV-1 via vaginal and rectal routes in humanized Rag2-/- gammac -/- (RAG-hu) mice. Virology, 373(2), 342-51.

Review

  1. Akkina SR, Bevans SE, Johnson A (2025). Techniques for Maxillomandibular Fixation: Old and New. Current opinion in otolaryngology & head and neck surgery,
  2. Akkina SR, Most SP (2022). Treatment of the Crooked Nose. [Review]. Clin Plast Surg, 49, (1), 111-121.
  3. Akkina SR, Most SP (2022). The Effect of Perichondrium on Cartilage Graft Properties . Current opinion in otolaryngology & head and neck surgery,
  4. Akkina SR, Parikh SR (2018). Pediatric Septoplasty. [Review]. Oper Tech Otolayngol Head Neck Surg, 29, (2), 66-69.
  5. Berens AM, Akkina SR, Patel SA (2017). Complications in facial Mohs defect reconstruction. [Review]. Curr Opin Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg, 25, (4), 258-264.

Book Chapter

  1. Akkina SR, Sie KCY (2025). Chapter 22: Surgery for Velopharyngeal Dysfunction: Furlow Palatoplasty. In Cleft Palate and Velopharyngeal Dysfunction.
  2. Akkina SR, Patel PN, Most SP (2023). Grafts in Rhinoplasty. In Comprehensive Rhinoplasty: Structural and Preservation Concepts.
  3. Akkina SR, Most SP (2023). Treatment of the Asymmetric Nose. In Comprehensive Rhinoplasty: Structural and Preservation Concepts.

Other

  1. Akkina S (2025). "Emerging Trends and Technologies: Red Light, Blue Light,- Useful or Too Hyped? Newsletter,. Facial Plastic Times, American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Inc. November/December 2025, Vol. 46, No. 5.,