About Me
Dr. Maria Kowzun is an expert in the diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer. She is a breast surgical oncologist at Rutgers Cancer Institute and the Jack & Sheryl Morris Cancer Center and the Medical Director of the Breast Program at Clara Maass Medical Center, an RWJBarnabas Health facility.
Dr. Kowzun ’s clinical expertise is focused in the field of breast diseases and breast cancer, providing the latest diagnostic tools and treatment options to improve treatment outcomes. She is particularly interested in breast conservation, oncoplastic techniques, nipple-sparing mastectomies, and clinical trials. She also has extensive experience managing complex or rare types of breast cancer.
Her ultimate goal is to offer her patients the best quality of care according to the most recent practice recommendations and surgical techniques with a caring and compassionate smile.
In addition to patient care, Dr. Kowzun maintains an active role in cancer research. She is engaged in cutting-edge, high impact clinical trials studying neoadjuvant treatment options for early stage and locally advanced breast cancer, and use of vaccines to prevent recurrence in HER2 positive breast cancer. Dr. Kowzun has authored and coauthored numerous peer-reviewed publications and frequently engages in national and international oncology conferences. Through this work, she aims to translate scientific discoveries into more effective treatments for patients.
She completed her medical degree from the John A. Burns School of Medicine at the University of Hawaii in 2008, continued as a resident at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center at Harvard University for her general surgery internship and Rutgers New Jersey Medical School for her general surgery residency, and completed fellowships at the Institute for Reconstructive Plastic Surgery at New York University and the Breast Surgical Oncology Fellowship at Rutgers Cancer Institute.
Clinical Expertise
- Breast cancer
- Breast conservation
- Oncoplastic techniques
- Nipple-sparing mastectomy
- Ductal carcinoma in-situ (DCIS)
- Clinical trials
- Image-guided percutaneous biopsies
Ratings and Reviews
4.9 Overall
Based on 214 reviews
4.9
Provider explained things clearly
4.9
Provider showed concern
4.9
Provider included you in decisions
4.9
Likelihood of recommending this provider
4.9
Provider discussed treatment options
Maria Kowzun is an exceptional doctor who is passionate about her work. I love this office simply because of the exceptional care and attention Dr. Kowzun provides. The ambiance is also very pleasant, making it a great combination of medical services and a pleasant environment.
Everyone at the office was amazing, supportive and listened to my concerns. It was one of the best experiences I have had wt a doctors office.
Excellent dr. My mom went to Dr Kowzun so when I needed to go I thought of her right away.
Dr. Kowzun and her team are the best.
Dr Kowzun is very concerned and easy to talk to
A great experience. I would reccomend this practice.
From the1st appointment, dr Kowzun has been open and approachable for any concerns or questions. We also sensed easily her standing on my side (meaning patient's side), and we could trust her ever since.
Dr. Maria Kowzun is amazing always listen your concerns and guide you through any issues or situation always going to the extra mile to help you
She listens and gives helpful answers
I already have recommended her and am so very indebted to her for her care.
My Doctor and nurse are very good and consern about your health.
Excellent and extraordinary
A lot of empathy from all the staff
Dr. Kowzun was very clear in her explanation and very attentive. She had wonderful bedside manner and we definitely recommend her.
Education & Honors
Medical School
- John A. Burns School of Medicine at the University of Hawaii, 2004
Residencies
- Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center at Harvard University, 2008
- Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, 2016
Fellowships
- Institute for Plastic Reconstructive Surgery at New York University, 2013
- Breast Surgical Oncology Fellowship at Rutgers Cancer Institute, 2017
Board Certifications
- American Board of Surgery, 2018
Honors/Awards
- Castle Connolly Top Doctors, Exceptional Women in Medicine (2022, 2023, 2024, 2025)
- Top Doctors New York Metro Area (2022, 2023)
- Jersey's Best - Top Doctors for Women's Health (2022, 2023, 2024, 2025)
- Jersey's Best - Top Doctors for Cancer (2023, 2024, 2025)
Insurance
Accepted Health Plan information is only as accurate as the most current information submitted. Prior to your appointment, it is advisable to verify with your insurance company they are still a participating plan prior to receiving services or care. Each plan is different and some provide different levels of coverage that could make a difference in your out-of-pocket costs. It is always best for the patient receiving care to contact their insurance company to obtain more information.
- Aetna
- Amerigroup
- Cigna
- Consumer Health Plan
- Horizon BCBS
- Horizon NJ Health
- Magnacare
- Medicaid
- Medicare
- Multiplan
- Oxford Health
- Qualcare HMO
- Qualcare PPO
- United Community
- United Healthcare
- United Medicare
- WellCare
Articles and Press

Dr. Maria Kowzun discusses the importance of regular screening to find signs of cancer early enough to allow for treatment with fewer risks of defects. Read more