My Journey in Medicine: From General Surgery to Plastic Surgery

Looking at my certificate of completion for my plastic surgery residency at Hospital Brigadeiro in São Paulo in 2007, I started reflecting on my journey in medicine and what I might have done differently regarding medical residencies.

My training began in general surgery, where I worked during 2002 and 2003 at the University Hospital of Florianópolis. Even though I was involved in general surgery throughout medical school, by the fourth or fifth semester, I started considering endocrinology. I was fascinated by hormones and how the human body functions, and I followed professors who opened doors for me.

During medical school, I participated in extension programs, teaching assistantships, and attended congresses and courses. This exposure allowed me to study diabetes, a challenging disease, yet one with advanced treatment options. Understanding its pathophysiology and mechanisms was incredibly rewarding, demonstrating that medicine is not only about clinical practice but also continuous learning and scientific inquiry.

Choosing General Surgery

At the end of medical school, I decided to focus on general surgery and completed a two-year residency in this specialty. During this period, I found my place in medicine within surgical practice. I was drawn to the operating room environment, the rhythm of surgeries, and the complexity of procedures.

I even considered continuing as a general surgeon or digestive system surgeon, with a particular interest in bariatric surgery for obese patients. This area gave me great professional satisfaction and shaped my early surgical career, providing confidence and technical skills.

The Decision to Pursue Plastic Surgery

After completing my general surgery residency, I chose to specialize in plastic surgery. This decision was highly rewarding both personally and professionally. Plastic surgery combines precision, artistry, and functional outcomes, offering a new level of professional fulfillment.

Working in plastic surgery allows me to impact patients’ physical transformation, self-esteem, and quality of life. The specialty requires not only technical skill but also a refined aesthetic sense and sensitivity to patient expectations. Combining this with my experience in general surgery enabled me to achieve safe, natural, and aesthetically harmonious results.

Considering Alternative Paths

If I had chosen another path, I might have pursued anesthesiology. I’ve always been fascinated by the operating room environment and the role of anesthesiologists. Anesthesia is a critical specialty: you put patients to sleep, prevent pain, maintain stability, and allow surgery to occur safely. At the end of the procedure, patients wake up comfortable and unaware of the time passed, which is incredibly rewarding.

Reflecting on this shows that, although every medical path has unique challenges and rewards, my passion for the surgical environment and direct patient care has always guided my choices.

Lessons from My Journey

My journey in medicine highlights several important lessons:

1. Experience matters: every residency, procedure, and patient contributes to developing a complete surgeon.
2. Passion for continuous learning: exploring new areas and techniques is critical throughout medical training.
3. Technical skill and aesthetic sense: especially in plastic surgery, functional outcomes and appearance go hand in hand.
4. Flexibility and self-reflection: considering alternatives like anesthesiology helps clarify your motivations and interests.

Conclusion

Looking back, I can see how each choice and experience shaped my professional and personal growth. From my early years in general surgery, to the fascination with endocrinology, to my consolidation in plastic surgery, every stage contributed to my development as a surgeon.

For those starting medical school or choosing a residency, the takeaway is clear: pursue areas that ignite your passion, embrace every learning opportunity, and value hands-on experience, because it is this experience that ultimately makes the difference in patient care.

My story demonstrates that in medicine, paths may vary, but what truly matters is dedication, continuous learning, and love for what you do, both inside and outside the operating room.