Well known and widely respected, Dr. Peter T. Hetzler has been one of New Jersey’s leading plastic surgeons for two decades. Indeed, the Rumson native – who returned home after gaining a world-class level of expertise – is one of the profession’s best examples of the successful independent practitioner: Peers say he is knowledgeable, experienced, highly ethical and exceptionally sensitive to his extensive patient base.

The son of an insurance executive (his godfather was a physician), Dr. Hetzler grew up around the water, scuba diving off the shores of Sandy Hook – “I always thought I’d become a marine biologist.” After attending Rumson Country Day School and the prestigious Phillips Academy at Andover, Hetzler went on to Stanford University. It was at first an eclectic academic path: A major in Marine Neurophysiology and a minor in French Literature. But a practical-thinking advisor told him “the odds of becoming the next Jacques Cousteau were pretty slim” and recommended medical school. After a pre-med internship at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, he headed to the University of Michigan medical school, and later took his general surgery and plastic surgery residencies at Hershey Medical Center, Penn State University. Dr. Hetzler focused on unique and challenging areas of surgery, including pediatric cardiothoracic surgery. But it was renowned Penn State University hand surgeon and plastic surgeon William P. Graham III who “single-handedly influenced me” to consider plastic and reconstructive surgery.

Like many of the top surgeons in his field, Dr. Hetzler possesses an exceptionally strong background in general surgery. In the late 80s he was performing delicate microsurgery procedures during a fellowship at York (Pa.) Hospital. He then took a fellowship at Manhattan Ear, Ear and Throat Hospital (N.Y.) in aesthetic surgery. He remains on that medical staff, today.

Over the years Dr. Hetzler’s Monmouth County practice by all accounts has established itself as the leading plastic surgery center in the region. His practice today is in great demand, both for cosmetic and reconstructive procedures. Assisting Dr. Hetzler is one of the most dedicated and attentive staffs in the field. “My staff are truly devoted and highly skilled, which makes a big difference in a practice such as mine.” As a leader in surgical societies and committees, he has been at the forefront of key policy matters and patient-safety initiatives. Peers say his measured and thorough approach commands widespread respect. Still fairly easy-going, though, Dr. Hetzler continues to scuba dive when he can and enjoys skiing. He serves as a trustee of Rumson Country Day School and the Oceanic Free Library of Rumson. He and his wife have two children; they live in eastern Monmouth County.