Marie-Claire Leaf

From an early age, Dr. Leaf knew she wanted to dedicate her life to helping others. Her love for science, especially the intricate design of the human body, deepened over time and led her toward medicine as the ideal way to combine her passions. This dedication ultimately brought her to Johns Hopkins, where she completed fellowship training in minimally invasive gynecologic surgery, gaining expertise in managing complex cases such as advanced stage endometriosis and large fibroid uterus.

As the only fellowship trained minimally invasive gynecologic surgeon at Hoag, Dr. Leaf specializes in advanced laparoscopic and robotic-assisted surgeries for complex benign gynecologic conditions. Her expertise includes treating stage 3 or 4 endometriosis, removing large or multiple fibroids (including fibroids greater than 10 cm or double-digit fibroid cases), correcting mullerian anomalies, managing large ovarian cysts, and caring for patients with complex surgical histories where significant pelvic adhesions, scarring, or distorted anatomy are anticipated. Even in these challenging situations, Dr. Leaf is able to offer minimally invasive approaches that are often performed as open surgeries nationwide when specialized training is not available. She is committed to providing a comfortable and empowering environment where patients feel heard and supported. She takes time to thoroughly explain diagnoses and treatment options, encouraging shared decision making so care can be tailored to each patient’s unique goals. She is driven each day by the trust and inspiration she receives from her patients and colleagues.

Dr. Leaf earned her medical degree and completed her obstetrics & gynecology residency at the University of California, Irvine.

Outside of medicine, Dr. Leaf enjoys spending time with her husband and two children, discovering new restaurants, exploring new places, and traveling.