Kelly S. Dempsey, MD

Dr. Kelly S. Dempsey, MD, FACS, is a breast cancer surgeon affiliated with Southwest Surgical Associates. She is dedicated to delivering exceptional care to women in Sugar Land, Texas, and the surrounding Houston area. 

Dr. Dempsey, originally from Louisiana, obtained her Bachelor of Science degree from Newcomb-Tulane College in New Orleans. During her time at Tulane, she was actively involved in the Club Sports Organization and was a member of the Tulane Sailing Team. 

She received prestigious accolades such as the Dean’s Honor Scholarship, the National Merit Scholarship, and consistently made the Dean’s list. Additionally, Dr. Dempsey was recognized with the Fred R. Cagle Award for Excellence in Biology in 1994, the Shelby G. Friedrichs Award for Commitment to Club Sports in 1994, and the David M. Berger Award for Service to Club Sports and Academic Achievement in 1995. 

Subsequently, she pursued her Doctor of Medicine Degree from LSU School of Medicine and participated in a medical mission with Operation Smile in Ecuador. Following that, Dr. Dempsey completed her residency at the University of Texas at Houston, where she distinguished herself through a Craniofacial Research Fellowship. 

Her research earned her First Place in the Harris County Medical Society’s Resident Abstract Competition in 2002, and she published five journal articles during her residency. Dr. Dempsey considers Dr. Red Duke, a renowned mentor, as one of the most influential figures during her training. She valued his ability to establish rapport and create a sense of familiarity with his patients, as well as his dedication to providing unhurried care. 

These qualities have shaped her approach throughout her career. During her initial year after training, Dr. Dempsey found great fulfillment in running the Breast Care Clinic at LBJ Hospital. The experience of working with women facing significant social and economic challenges during their diagnosis and treatment left a lasting impression on her. 

Specializing in women’s breast health issues and breast surgery, Dr. Dempsey focuses on minimally invasive biopsy techniques and oncoplastic breast surgery, which combines cancer treatment with cosmetic outcomes. She remains at the forefront of technological advancements and patient care. In 2006, she introduced genetic cancer testing, gene expression profiling, and partial breast irradiation to the Sugar Land community. 

She has also played a pivotal role in the development of breast imaging centers throughout Fort Bend County. Dr. Dempsey’s contributions were recognized when she was named Female Physician of the Year at Memorial Hermann Sugar Land in 2007 and at Methodist Sugar Land in 2010. 

In recent years, Dr. Dempsey has served on the Advisory Board for Angels Surviving Cancer, Inc., a women’s organization dedicated to raising awareness about breast health and supporting those fighting the disease. She is passionate about addressing healthcare disparities in the Houston area and actively participates in fundraising and raising awareness for breast cancer care through organizations like Susan G. Komen and The Sisters Network. 

Aside from her professional endeavors, Dr. Dempsey is engaged in community service through Sugar Land Methodist Church, Katy Christian Ministries, and her involvement as a member of the P.E.O. sisterhood, which promotes educational opportunities for women. She also volunteers with C.A.M.O., a nonprofit animal rescue group dedicated to rescuing dogs from homelessness and euthanasia.