5 answers
rae
Student
Newark, New Jersey
1
Question
Asked
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How, Based on your experiences, would becoming a surgeon worth it I know it has awkward hours, weird timings to work and it's a lot of stress performing, but I think I would enjoy it. Not sure though!?
Life being a surgeon
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5 answers
Karin P.
Lecturer
376
Answers
Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
Updated
Karin’s Answer
Hi Rae,
Excellent question, but one that only you can decide for yourself. Is it worth it for YOU? Your arguments for or against it are both valid considerations.
The good news is that you don't need to decide that now. You have many years of schooling in front of you before you need to make that decision. And on this exciting journey you'll pass several decision points where you can look at your options again. So, put it on a shelf for now as one option.
Before you can even apply to medical school, you need to get an undergraduate degree. Biology or biochemistry would be good choices, but it can really be anything. You'll have a bachelors degree in 4 years. Decision point: if you still want to go to medical school, you need to take the MCAT and apply for medical school. The other option would be to continue to grad school in biology or biochemistry or whatever works with your undergrad degree. You could also decide that a bachelors is enough or that you want to get some industry experience before going to grad school, and look for employment.
If you decide for medical school, you'll have 4 years in medical school where you'll get exposed to all the medical specialties. Decision point: If you still want to be a surgeon, go for it. But by that time you might have fallen in love with a different specialty. Or maybe you have decided that it is not worth it FOR YOU. Depending on your specialty, you'll spend at least 3 years in residency. A general surgery residency takes 5 years, a neurosurgery residency is 7 years. Then you'll need to get board certified.
It's a long path, but you'll keep all your options open until you need to decide if you want to be a surgeon.
Good luck!
KP
Excellent question, but one that only you can decide for yourself. Is it worth it for YOU? Your arguments for or against it are both valid considerations.
The good news is that you don't need to decide that now. You have many years of schooling in front of you before you need to make that decision. And on this exciting journey you'll pass several decision points where you can look at your options again. So, put it on a shelf for now as one option.
Before you can even apply to medical school, you need to get an undergraduate degree. Biology or biochemistry would be good choices, but it can really be anything. You'll have a bachelors degree in 4 years. Decision point: if you still want to go to medical school, you need to take the MCAT and apply for medical school. The other option would be to continue to grad school in biology or biochemistry or whatever works with your undergrad degree. You could also decide that a bachelors is enough or that you want to get some industry experience before going to grad school, and look for employment.
If you decide for medical school, you'll have 4 years in medical school where you'll get exposed to all the medical specialties. Decision point: If you still want to be a surgeon, go for it. But by that time you might have fallen in love with a different specialty. Or maybe you have decided that it is not worth it FOR YOU. Depending on your specialty, you'll spend at least 3 years in residency. A general surgery residency takes 5 years, a neurosurgery residency is 7 years. Then you'll need to get board certified.
It's a long path, but you'll keep all your options open until you need to decide if you want to be a surgeon.
Good luck!
KP
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6193
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hi Rae,
Choosing to become a surgeon can be an incredibly fulfilling journey, but it's also one that requires thoughtful consideration. It's crucial to understand the demands and responsibilities that come with the role. Here are some aspects you might want to think about:
On the bright side:
1. You'll have the chance to significantly enhance people's lives and positively influence their health.
2. You'll work alongside a skilled team of medical professionals, using the latest technology to carry out intricate procedures.
3. Successfully treating patients and saving lives offers a unique sense of accomplishment.
4. Surgeons are always in demand, which means a promising salary and job stability.
On the flip side:
1. The job can be demanding, with long hours, challenging cases, and the physical and emotional strain of performing surgeries.
2. You'll need to stay abreast of the newest medical developments and technologies.
3. There's always a risk of malpractice suits and the potential for serious patient consequences if mistakes are made.
4. The emotional demands of the job can lead to burnout and compassion fatigue.
If you're contemplating a career as a surgeon, it's important to balance these pros and cons. Here are three insightful books that might help you in your decision-making process:
1. "The Surgeon’s Life" by Robert H. Miller, M.D. - This book offers a glimpse into the life of a surgeon, highlighting both the challenges and rewards.
2. "Surgeons’ Lives: A Study of Career Choice and Personal Characteristics" by Michael J. P. O’Brien, M.D., et al. - This study delves into the personal traits and motivations of surgeons, offering insights into what makes a successful surgeon.
3. "The Art of Surgery: A Guide to Excellence in Clinical Practice" by John F. S. Dunn, M.D. - This guide offers practical advice for surgeons, including how to stay updated with medical advancements and maintain a thriving practice.
In summary, being a surgeon can be a deeply satisfying career for those with a passion for medicine and a readiness to put in the necessary time and effort. However, it's crucial to consider the demands and responsibilities of the profession before making your decision.
Take care and God bless,
James.
Choosing to become a surgeon can be an incredibly fulfilling journey, but it's also one that requires thoughtful consideration. It's crucial to understand the demands and responsibilities that come with the role. Here are some aspects you might want to think about:
On the bright side:
1. You'll have the chance to significantly enhance people's lives and positively influence their health.
2. You'll work alongside a skilled team of medical professionals, using the latest technology to carry out intricate procedures.
3. Successfully treating patients and saving lives offers a unique sense of accomplishment.
4. Surgeons are always in demand, which means a promising salary and job stability.
On the flip side:
1. The job can be demanding, with long hours, challenging cases, and the physical and emotional strain of performing surgeries.
2. You'll need to stay abreast of the newest medical developments and technologies.
3. There's always a risk of malpractice suits and the potential for serious patient consequences if mistakes are made.
4. The emotional demands of the job can lead to burnout and compassion fatigue.
If you're contemplating a career as a surgeon, it's important to balance these pros and cons. Here are three insightful books that might help you in your decision-making process:
1. "The Surgeon’s Life" by Robert H. Miller, M.D. - This book offers a glimpse into the life of a surgeon, highlighting both the challenges and rewards.
2. "Surgeons’ Lives: A Study of Career Choice and Personal Characteristics" by Michael J. P. O’Brien, M.D., et al. - This study delves into the personal traits and motivations of surgeons, offering insights into what makes a successful surgeon.
3. "The Art of Surgery: A Guide to Excellence in Clinical Practice" by John F. S. Dunn, M.D. - This guide offers practical advice for surgeons, including how to stay updated with medical advancements and maintain a thriving practice.
In summary, being a surgeon can be a deeply satisfying career for those with a passion for medicine and a readiness to put in the necessary time and effort. However, it's crucial to consider the demands and responsibilities of the profession before making your decision.
Take care and God bless,
James.
Paul Treuhaft, MD, MA
Retired surgeon who replaced hips and knees
43
Answers
Santa Rosa, California
Updated
Paul’s Answer
You already have three excellent answers, to which I can only add a few suggestions. The first would be to find and read as many books about doctor's lives and work as you can find. The second, and harder but more worthwhile, is to seek out and talk to as many doctors as you can. You will find that each has had different experiences and each will offer a unique perspective, but if you will be able to sense common threads if you can meet enough doctors. You can also get a somewhat different perspective on doctor's lives if you can talk to nurses. They work in the same environment and have contact with doctors on a daily basis. If you have specific questions you can ask CareerVillage.org to put you in touch with me directly. I am a retired orthopaedic surgeon with over 40 years of patient care experience, and there is not much that I have not seen.
Paul S. Treuhaft, MD, MA
Paul S. Treuhaft, MD, MA
Christina Stasiuk
Medical Director
8
Answers
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Updated
Christina’s Answer
You've gotten two excellent responses. Some things to consider as next steps.
Read some of the recommended books.
Talk to your doctor about their journey
Determine milestones for decision-making
Christina recommends the following next steps:
Madison Buchman
doctor
112
Answers
West Hartford
Updated
Madison’s Answer
As a surgeon yes, it is a large responsibility, but there is equally a large burden of responsibility in regular non surgical medicine as well. In general some people find the ability to use your hands and in many cases immediately fix a problem and see instant results can be very satisfying. Additionally, the ability to continue to constantly grow and improve and learn new techniques is also enticing!