Dr. Robert Bolling was born in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, and grew up in Fayette. His mother was an elementary school teacher and his father a pharmacist, and from an early age he dreamed of becoming a doctor. Inspired by a local family physician who cared for the community in every way—from delivering babies to performing surgery—Dr. Bolling knew he wanted to follow a similar path of service.
After high school, he earned an athletic scholarship to play basketball at Brewer State (now Bevill State), then went on to Auburn University where he graduated summa cum laude in chemistry. He continued his education at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, where he earned both his Doctor of Medicine and a Master’s in Public Health.
Drawn to surgery by his detail-oriented nature and love of problem-solving, Dr. Bolling began his residency in General Surgery at the University of South Alabama, where he developed a strong passion for Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. He saw in this field the unique ability to treat patients of all ages and circumstances—helping children born with cleft lips, women rebuilding after breast cancer, accident victims recovering from trauma, and individuals seeking life-changing improvements such as breast reduction, body contouring, or facial rejuvenation.
After serving as Chief Resident in General Surgery in 2005, he went on to complete his Plastic Surgery Fellowship at Tulane University, once again serving as Chief Resident in 2007. He went on to pass his board certifications in both General Surgery and Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. Passing board certifications in both specialties is a unique feat, which few Plastic Surgeon’s complete.
Outside of medicine, Dr. Bolling and his wife, Jenn, are devoted parents to six children. Their family is active in Vision Church in Fayette, Alabama, where they serve in several ministries. In his free time, Dr. Bolling enjoys fishing, where he finds peace in God’s creation, and working on cars—continuing his love for “fixing” things both inside and outside the operating room.