Alumni Spotlight: Dr. Levonti Ohanisian
In 2020, Dr. Levonti Ohanisian proudly walked across the stage at the Schmidt College of Medicine at Florida Atlantic University, knowing that the journey ahead would be challenging but filled with purpose. Today, as he nears the completion of his orthopaedic surgery residency at the University of South Florida, Dr. Ohanisian stands at the threshold of an exciting future. In 2025, he will begin an Adult Reconstruction Fellowship at Stanford Medicine, where he will specialize in joint replacements and complex reconstructions. His journey is a powerful story of passion and a relentless commitment to healing.
A Calling in Orthopaedics: Restoring Movement, Restoring Lives
For Dr. Ohanisian, the decision to specialize in orthopaedic surgery wasn't just about medicine—it was about giving people their lives back. "There's nothing more fulfilling than helping someone walk again or return to the activities they love," he shared. From treating athletes with sports injuries to performing life-altering joint replacements, orthopaedics allows Dr. Ohanisian to combine his love for hands-on problem-solving with his desire to make a real difference in the lives of his patients.
His passion for orthopaedics was nurtured during his years at the Schmidt College of Medicine. The experience he gained during clinical rotations solidified his calling to this field, and FAU provided the foundation that would carry him through his residency and beyond. "FAU nurtured my curiosity and challenged me to think critically," Dr. Ohanisian recalled. "The faculty believed in me, and that gave me the confidence to pursue my goals fearlessly."
As an orthopaedic surgery resident at the University of South Florida, Dr. Ohanisian is constantly pushed to grow as a surgeon and a leader. Residency has been a whirlwind of long hours, complex cases, and constant learning. Yet, for Dr. Ohanisian, every moment in the operating room brings a new opportunity to refine his skills and deepen his commitment to his patients. "Every surgery presents a unique challenge, but that’s what I love about this field," he said. "You have to be prepared for anything, but at the end of the day, it's all about improving your patient’s quality of life."
Dr. Ohanisian is also actively involved in research, contributing to advancements in minimally invasive surgical techniques and exploring ways to enhance recovery outcomes for his patients. His research has been presented at national conferences, where he continues to make an impact in the broader medical community.
Looking Ahead: Stanford and Beyond
In 2025, Dr. Ohanisian will begin his Adult Reconstruction Fellowship at Stanford Medicine, one of the top programs in the country for orthopaedic surgery. This fellowship will allow him to further specialize in joint replacement surgery, a field that has become his passion. “The opportunity to train at Stanford is a dream come true," he said. "I'll be working alongside some of the best surgeons in the world, refining my skills so I can provide the highest level of care to my patients."
The fellowship will focus on advanced techniques for treating conditions like severe arthritis and post-traumatic injuries—surgeries that have the power to transform lives. For Dr. Ohanisian, this is not just the next step in his career; it's the culmination of years of hard work and dedication. "I'm excited for the challenge and for the opportunity to push the boundaries of what's possible in orthopaedic surgery."
The Foundation of Success: Schmidt College of Medicine
Dr. Ohanisian's success is rooted in the values he learned at Schmidt College of Medicine. He credits the college with providing the supportive and collaborative environment that allowed him to thrive. "FAU was a place where I could dream big," he said. "The mentorship I received there was incredible—it prepared me for the challenges of residency and beyond."
He also emphasized the unique atmosphere of psychological safety that FAU fostered, where students were encouraged to take risks and innovate. "FAU taught me that the best outcomes come from working together and supporting each other," he explained. These lessons have shaped his approach not only to surgery but also to his leadership style in the operating room.