“They Surge-on…The Journey of an Early Career Plastic Surgeon in India as I see it”

Abstract

The journey to becoming a plastic surgeon is a long one. Most nonsurgeons are unaware of the actual scope of plastic surgery and the spectrum of surgeries done by plastic surgeons. The constant look-out for “cutting chances” from early in the career can be quite exhausting and may take a toll on the professional relationships as well as personal lives of plastic surgeons. Many a time in the wake of striving for operative opportunities, research may take a back seat. Being an endocrinologist, who has witnessed closely, the life of a young lady plastic surgeon I have come to understand that the grind and struggle for development of skills in microsurgical techniques can be overwhelming. To prevent professional burnout, encouragement and guidance from mentors as well as setting priorities may go a long way.