Why did you choose your particular speciality?
Plastic surgery is a competitive and complex speciality with long training and an interesting mix of cases. We are trained to operate from “head to toe” and undertake life-saving treatments in burns, fix bones in the hand, repair blood vessels and nerves and restore function following cancer, trauma and congenital conditions. In addition, we undertake transplant procedures and interact with all other surgical specialities. We are the last of the true “general surgeons”. The challenging and varied nature of plastic surgery was the reason I chose it.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
The patients! It is very rewarding to have made a difference in a patient’s life from improvement in form or function. Many of my patients have suffered from trauma as a result of an accident and it is satisfying to be able to be a part of their journey back to a normal life.
What one thing do you wish every member of the public knew?
To live life to the fullest and not to let the little things worry you!
What three traits define you?
Like all surgeons, I am determined, compassionate and always step up to a challenge.
Who is your inspiration?
Both my parents are surgeons and growing up I saw how hard they worked and what a difference they made to people’s lives. This is why both my sister and I became doctors.
What accomplishment in your life are you most proud of?
In 2011 I was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer and was told that I was unlikely to survive. With the support of the NHS and my family, I battled through the difficult treatment and am fit and healthy years down the line. This experience gave me a better insight into being a patient and made me a better doctor. As a result of this, I have dedicated my time to research to improve patient care and have established the world’s first and largest clinical research network in the UK for Plastic and Hand Surgery. The team of surgeons that undertake this research with me, and the patients that participate, make me proud of what we can achieve when we work together.
If you could do another job for just one day, what would it be?
I would be Secretary of State for Health and Social Care and make some radical improvements to our amazing NHS.
What advances in medicine are you most excited about?
Ironically I get most excited about treatments that make my surgery unnecessary, such as new medicines that replace surgery as a treatment.
What (health) app would you most recommend?
NHS Choices
www.nhs.uk
Book an appointment with Prof. Abhilash Jain
Read Prof. Jain’s latest article: Two common hand conditions that could be the cause of your finger or thumb pain