Justin D. Blasberg, MD

I chose a career in surgery because it offers a unique opportunity to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives by combining my passions for science, problem-solving, and supporting others during some of their most challenging moments. Thoracic surgery, in particular, drew me in because of its technical complexity, the potential for innovation, and the profound impact it can have on patients facing serious, often life-threatening conditions. What I find most rewarding about this field is the blend of surgical precision, critical decision-making, and the relationships I develop with patients and their families. I am also inspired by the opportunities for growth within thoracic surgery, where advances in technology, minimally invasive techniques, and new care approaches continuously improve outcomes and challenge conventional thinking.

My commitment to helping patients comes from a deep desire to make a positive impact during times of uncertainty and vulnerability. I recognize that each patient’s story is unique, and I work to provide exceptional care by listening, understanding concerns, and treating every individual with compassion and respect. Building trust with my patients is my priority, and I take the time to communicate honestly, answer questions clearly, and ensure they feel confident and informed throughout their care journey. I also believe that access to a surgical team when needed is essential to successful recovery, which is why our thoracic surgery program is built around open communication and availability. I am honored to share these connections with patients, knowing that my role extends well beyond the operating room.

My practice focuses on a wide spectrum of thoracic conditions, encompassing diseases of the lungs, esophagus, mediastinum, diaphragm, and chest wall. I specialize in minimally invasive and robotic-assisted surgical techniques for treating lung and esophageal cancers, benign pulmonary nodules, mediastinal tumors, and diaphragmatic abnormalities. By using advanced technologies such as single and multi-port robotic approaches, I aim to minimize incisions, reduce post-operative discomfort, and promote faster recoveries while maintaining the highest standards of care. When necessary, I also perform traditional open surgeries, tailoring each procedure to meet the individual needs of my patients. Additionally, I have a special interest in treating chest wall abnormalities such as rib fractures and pectus excavatum, incorporating innovative techniques to improve outcomes and overall patient well-being. What sets our team apart is our combination of cutting-edge surgical technology and highly personalized patient care.

When seeking care for thoracic conditions, I want my patients to know that the best outcomes come from working with a team that prioritizes expertise, advanced technology, and personalized treatment plans. Every patient’s journey is unique, and I strive to understand their individual goals, concerns, and expectations. Open communication, shared decision-making, and accessibility are at the core of my approach to care, ensuring that every patient feels supported and well-informed. I focus on using innovative techniques, including robotic surgery, to provide the safest, most effective care while minimizing the disruption to a patient’s quality of life. Ultimately, my goal is to help patients recover quickly and return to the activities and moments they value most, knowing they received compassionate and expert care. I am also deeply committed to advancing thoracic surgery through clinical research, innovation, and the application of new technologies.

At NYU Langone, I’ve been fortunate to work within the thoracic oncology research group, focusing on improving lung cancer care for our patients. My research has explored identifying biomarkers for lung cancer recurrence, optimizing recovery pathways after lung resection, and refining robotic techniques to enhance outcomes. It’s exciting to see how these efforts translate into meaningful advancements for my patients, making surgery safer, less invasive, and more effective. Lung cancer care has evolved significantly over the past decade, and it is a privilege to bring these real-time innovations into practice to maximize treatment opportunities for those I care for.

Throughout my career, I’ve been honored to receive recognitions that reflect my dual passions for delivering exceptional patient care and fostering excellence in surgical education. Being named one of Connecticut’s Top Doctors for two consecutive years and receiving Yale’s Cardiothoracic Surgery Teaching Award for excellence in resident education has been profoundly meaningful to me. These accolades underscore my commitment to providing the highest quality care while mentoring the next generation of surgeons. For me, delivering exceptional surgical care means embracing innovation, continuous learning, and collaboration, all to ensure that my patients receive thoughtful, compassionate, and individualized treatment each and every day.