Welcome to Craniofacial and Children's Reconstructive Surgery at Mercy!

I would like to take this opportunity to personally thank you for your confidence in our team and the services we provide.

We realize this may be a challenging time for your family.  You may be overwhelmed with your child’s recent diagnosis, fearful of what is ahead, wondering what could have been done to prevent the situation – we want you to know that you are not alone.  In fact, what you are feeling is very normal.  Our team will be with you throughout your journey to answer questions, provide education and to offer support.

Within our Website, you will find information specific to your child’s diagnosis, as well as tips for feeding, information on treatment and suggestions for seeking support.

I welcome and encourage your questions, and most importantly, discussion around your concerns and fears.  Our team looks forward to the opportunity to serve your child’s needs, while building a connection with your family.

Sincerely,

W. Dale Franks Jr., MD
Medical Director

Dr. Franks is the Medical Director for Craniofacial and Children's Reconstructive Surgery at Mercy.
He comes to Mercy Medical Center Des Moines from New York University School of Medicine’s Institute of Reconstructive Plastic Surgery in New York, NY.

Dr. Franks completed his undergraduate studies at Texas Tech University. After earning his Doctorate of Dental Surgery from the University of Texas Dental Branch in Houston, he then completed training in maxillofacial surgery at Lincoln Medical Center in New York. He received his Doctorate of Medicine from Eastern Virginia Medical School, which was then followed by a residency in general surgery at Mercy Medical Center in Pittsburgh.

Dr. Franks completed his plastic and reconstructive surgery residency at The University of Tennessee College of Medicine, Chattanooga Unit. He received his training in craniofacial reconstructive plastic surgery under the direction of Dr. Joseph McCarthy at the NYU Medical Center.