Meet Saro Khemichian, MD 

Dr. Khemichian is a transplant hepatologist at Keck Medicine of USC who cares for patients across the full spectrum of liver diseases, from mild liver conditions to advanced cirrhosis and liver failure, including those who have undergone a liver transplant.  

He sees patients at Keck Hospital of USC, USC Norris Cancer Hospital and the Keck Medicine of USC – La Cañada clinic. Here’s what you won’t find on his resume. 

One moment of service became a lifelong calling. 

“I didn’t always know what I wanted to be when I grew up. Like many students, my plans shifted until a volunteer experience in a hospital changed everything. Being present with patients, hearing their stories and witnessing the compassion of doctors showed me what it truly means to serve. That experience sparked a purpose that would shape my future. 

I’ve always felt that caring for others is one of the most profound ways to make a difference, and medicine felt like the ultimate expression of that goal. The idea that you can ease someone’s suffering, guide them through vulnerable moments and have a lasting impact on their life is what drew me in and what continues to inspire me every day.” 

His father is his greatest role model. 

“My biggest role model growing up was and continues to be my father. He is the kind of man who leads with both strength and humility. He is an incredibly hard worker with a steady, grounded presence. He always put our family first, no matter what it required of him, and he continues to sacrifice himself for the well-being of everyone around him. His example shaped the person I strive to be.” 

Like his father, he’s a family man. 

“When I’m not working, you’ll almost always find me wrapped up in my kids’ worlds, cheering them on at a dance performance, on the basketball court, at a musical recital or during their scouting activities. Being there for those moments is one of my greatest joys. 

My family also inspires me to be the best physician I can be. They remind me of what truly matters: love, commitment and the responsibility we have to care for one another. Their support fuels me and keeps me striving to show up as my best self, both at home and in medicine.” 

Music is his creative escape. 

“Beyond family time, I love playing the piano, getting lost in a piece of music. If I could trade careers with anyone for a day, I would choose to be an orchestra conductor. There’s something incredibly moving about standing at the center of a hundred musicians, each with their own instruments, and bringing them together in one unified, powerful performance. That would be an unforgettable experience.” 

He loves to travel. 

“My favorite travel destination is Armenia. There’s something profoundly grounding about returning to your roots, feeling connected to generations that came before you while finding your own place within that history. In fact, one of my dreams is to climb Mount Ararat someday. 

I also enjoy spending time outdoors hiking and exploring nature, and I hope to one day witness the green glow of the Northern Lights.” 

Growing up across different cultures enriched his identity. 

“People are often surprised to learn that my story stretches across three countries. I was born in Germany, raised in Iran and then moved to the United States, all while growing up in an Armenian family. It’s a blend of cultures and experiences that has shaped who I am in the most meaningful ways.” 

Seeing patients get a second chance at life is the biggest reward. 

“As a transplant hepatologist, many of my patients initially present with advanced liver disease and liver failure. To witness their transformation after a successful liver transplant is nothing short of extraordinary. Seeing someone go from critically ill to walking back into clinic with strength, hope and a renewed future is the most rewarding part of my job.” 

He hopes for a future where quality care is accessible to every patient. 

“Equity and access to medical care remains suboptimal, and I hope to see this change in the future.” 

His advice: Keep trying, and stay curious. 

“The best advice I’ve received is that the road to success is rarely smooth. You will stumble, you will fall and there will be moments when quitting feels easier than trying again. But true success belongs to those who rise each time they fail, who dust themselves off, learn from the setback and keep moving forward. It’s the resilience, not the perfection, that ultimately defines you. 

My advice to medical students interested in this field is to stay curious and never stop learning. This field evolves quickly, and your willingness to grow with it will shape your success.” 

Why he chose to practice at Keck Medicine:  

“I chose academic medicine because it allows me to pursue research, contribute to clinical trials and work closely with trainees. But, most importantly, it lets me do what I love most, which is teaching and mentoring the next generation of physicians. 

I also value the shared mission and values of the colleagues I get to collaborate with daily. Everyone on our team has a common goal to provide liver disease patients with superb patient care.” 

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