In a field historically dominated by men, Dr. Lamia Gabal has carved out a space that’s both pioneering and deeply personal. As founder of Prestige Medical Group, a thriving all-women urology and pelvic health practice in Orange County, Dr. Gabal blends surgical precision with heartfelt compassion—and she does it all with
unapologetic style.
“I like to say I wear pajamas to work,” she laughs, referring to the scrubs she dons for the 20 to 25 surgeries she performs each month. But those green scrubs don’t define her. Outside the OR, she’s a lover of fashion, family, and philanthropy. Whether attending a gala in a designer gown or enjoying a sweet treat before bed, Dr. Gabal is the embodiment of multidimensional success.
But her journey here wasn’t easy—or straight. Born in Cairo and raised in California, Gabal’s early life was marked by resilience. After a tragic accident left her mother hospitalized and the family in financial crisis, she and her sister were placed in foster care. Her father, a chemical engineer by education, struggled with mental illness and job instability, but persevered through entrepreneurial ventures that ultimately helped the family find their footing.
By 16, Lamia had graduated high school. By 20, she earned her degree from UC Irvine. But the road to medicine took a few detours—including work in pharmaceuticals and a stint helping her sorority open a chapter in snowy Syracuse. When she finally started medical school at UC San Diego, it was after three “gap” years—rare for the time, but a decision she calls one of her best.
Ironically, she didn’t choose urology—it chose her. “I tried to trade out of the rotation,” she admits, “but I ended up loving it.” She was drawn to the specialty’s balance of surgery, humor, and the opportunity to serve a patient population often overlooked: women dealing with intimate health issues like incontinence, prolapse, and pelvic pain.
When she completed her residency in 2001, only 4% of board-certified urologists were female. Today, the number has risen to 11%, and Dr. Gabal is part of that wave of change. “I’ve built a practice I’m proud of—three female urologists, three female PAs, and an all-women staff. It’s important that patients feel safe and seen.”
Her work now extends beyond traditional urology. Prestige Medical Group has evolved to offer advanced regenerative and sexual wellness treatments—an area Gabal is personally passionate about. “These topics are still taboo, but they shouldn’t be. Sexual health is part of our overall well-being.”
With her name appearing for the 17th time on the Orange County Medical Association’s Physicians of Excellence list, and a newly expanded 6,100-square-foot office, Dr. Gabal isn’t just keeping pace—she’s setting it.
Her story is one of perseverance, power, and purpose. It reminds us that medicine isn’t just about treating symptoms. It’s about understanding people—body and soul.
Featured in Orange Coast Magazine – read original article here