Philip J Hess, MD

I’m proud to be part of a tradition that spans generations — my father was a heart surgeon who trained at the University of Florida and practiced at UF Health. Following in his footsteps, I now serve as a professor of surgery in the Division of Cardiovascular Surgery at the UF College of Medicine and care for patients at UF Health Shands Hospital, where my own surgical career began.

As a board-certified cardiothoracic surgeon with more than 25 years of experience, I specialize in treating complex heart and thoracic conditions. My areas of expertise include aortic root and valve surgery, bicuspid aortic valve repair, and thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR). My focus is to provide high quality care for patients suffering with thoracic aortic aneurysm, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, Marfan Syndrome and infected heart valves (endocarditis). Each case is unique, and my goal is to provide a personalized, thoughtful approach — offering the safest, most effective surgical options that fit each patient’s condition and goals for recovery.

After earning my medical degree from East Carolina University’s Brody School of Medicine, I completed my general surgery residency and cardiothoracic surgery fellowship at UF Health Shands Hospital. My career has since taken me across leading academic institutions, including Indiana University Health, where I served as cardiovascular director and professor of clinical surgery. Along the way, I’ve led clinical programs, participated in national research initiatives, and helped shape innovations in surgical care that improve outcomes for patients with heart disease.

Teaching and mentorship have always been central to my career. I’ve had the privilege of training and guiding residents and fellows who are now advancing the field in their own ways. I’ve received several teaching awards and have served as a program director for cardiothoracic surgery training programs — work that continues to inspire me every day. I’m also an active member of professional societies including the Society of Thoracic Surgeons and the American College of Surgeons, which allow me to stay connected with colleagues and contribute to ongoing advancements in our field.

What matters most to me, though, is the patient experience. I believe in building relationships founded on trust, compassion and open communication. I take time to help each patient understand their diagnosis and treatment options, so they feel confident and supported throughout their care journey.

When I’m not in the operating room or mentoring trainees, I enjoy being outdoors — whether that’s playing sports or spending a quiet day fly fishing. My wife and I are proud parents of two grown children, and we share our home with a dog, Zoey, and a cat, Marty.