Dr. Swanson is Professor of Dermatology, Surgery and Otolaryngology at Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU), Director of Surgical and Cosmetic Dermatology. He was Chair of the Department of Dermatology at OHSU for 16 years before stepping down in June 2010, and associate Director for Clinical Operations for the OHSU Knight Cancer Institute until June of 2011. Before coming to Oregon Health & Science University to serve as director of Dermatologic Surgery in 1989, he was the director of the surgical unit and Multidisciplinary Melanoma Program at the University of Michigan. Dr. Swanson received his medical degree from the University of Rochester, his dermatologic training at the University of Michigan and completed his surgical fellowship at the University of California, San Francisco in 1979.


Dr. Swanson specializes in caring for patients with skin cancer, including melanoma. With advanced training in Mohs surgery, he often treats complex cancers. He has trained 30 “fellows” who have populated academic centers in the U.S. and worldwide. Dr. Swanson is an international lecturer and author regarding the detection and treatment of skin cancer, as well as cosmetic surgery procedures, such as laser surgery, dermabrasion, chemical peel, filler injections, and Botox. He has authored more than a hundred and seventy journal articles, authored or edited multiple textbooks, and contributed chapters to numerous textbooks. He maintains an active clinical practice treating skin cancer, including Mohs surgery and reconstruction.

In his spare time, he enjoys country life including western riding and competing on his horses Jax and Bo.