James W. Jakub, M.D.

James W. Jakub, M.D., is a breast surgical oncologist and melanoma surgeon at Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville, Florida. He specializes in the surgical treatment of breast cancer, melanoma and Merkel cell carcinoma, including high-risk, advanced and recurrent disease. He has particular expertise in:

• Benign and malignant breast disease, including breast-conserving surgery, nipple-sparing mastectomy and risk-reducing mastectomy
• Sentinel lymph node surgery and complex lymph node procedures
• Melanoma and Merkel cell carcinoma
• Locally recurrent and in-transit melanoma, offering specialized treatments such, including hyperthermic isolated limb perfusion, intralesional therapy and surgical tumor harvest for tumor-infiltrating lymphocyte (TIL) therapy

Throughout his career, Dr. Jakub has emphasized the thoughtful adoption of new operative techniques and technologies intended to improve cancer treatment, recovery, function and quality of life.

He was among the first surgeons in the United States to perform robotic nipple-sparing mastectomy. He has also helped advance radio-guided breast surgery, minimally invasive inguinal lymph node dissection, immediate lymphatic reconstruction to reduce the risk of lymphedema, nerve grafting to help restore breast sensation after mastectomy, and cryoablation.

Dr. Jakub takes an individualized approach to cancer surgery and works closely with patients to understand their circumstances, concerns and priorities.

"There are often several reasonable ways to approach a cancer diagnosis," says Dr. Jakub. "My role is to explain the options clearly, listen carefully to what matters most to each patient and help them choose a treatment plan that is medically appropriate and aligned with their goals."

An active educator and researcher, Dr. Jakub leads educational programs in breast cancer and melanoma, publishes in surgical oncology and helps expand clinical trial opportunities for patients. He also holds a leadership role within Mayo Clinic Comprehensive Cancer Center focused on advancing care for patients with rare and complex cancers and serves in editorial roles with two leading surgical oncology journals.

Dr. Jakub completed a fellowship in breast surgical oncology that included extensive training in melanoma and broader surgical oncology. He is board certified by the American Board of Surgery.

Outside of medicine, Dr. Jakub enjoys paddleboarding, surfing, running and walking on the beach, cheering for the Jacksonville Jaguars, and spending time with his wife and three sons.