CAREERS ENCYCLOPEDIA

Surgeon

A specialized medical professional who performs operations to address injuries, illnesses, and deformities. Trained in surgical methods and oversee the planning, execution, and management of various surgical interventions.

Career Cluster Tag:
On The Job You Would:

Performs surgical procedures to address medical issues, ensuring precision to surgical standards. They handle pre-operative evaluations, collaborate with healthcare teams, oversee patients’s post-operative recovery and manage complications.

Knowledge
Understanding of human anatomy, various surgical techniques, and the medical conditions that requires surgery. Proficiency in interpreting diagnostic tests and staying informed about the latest advancements in surgical methods.
Skills
Surgical Precision:

Ability to perform procedures accurately and with care to ensure successful outcomes.

Decision-Making:

Skill in making quick informed decisions during surgeries.

Manual Dexterity:

Expertise in using surgical instruments and performing tasks with steady hands and fine motor control.

Abilities
Analytical Ability:

Assessing complex medical data and determining the most appropriate surgical interventions.

Problem-Solving:

Capacity to address and resolve unexpected challenges or complications during surgical procedures.

Stress Management:

Ability to maintain focus and manage stress in high-pressure environments.

Personality
Patience:

Ability to remain calm during lengthy procedures, ensuring care and thoroughness.

Resilience:

Ability to cope with the demanding and often high-stress nature of surgical work.

Empathy:

Genuine concern for patients' well-being, helping to build trust and provide compassionate care.

Technology
Utilize advanced technologies such as robotic surgical systems and laparoscopic instruments to conduct precise surgeries. They also depend on imaging tools like MRI and CT scans for detailed diagnostics and effective surgical planning.
Entry Requirements
Complete an MBBS degree followed by a surgical residency program for specialized training. They must then pass board exams to gain certification and qualify to practice as a surgeon.
Job Outlook
Growing Healthcare Needs:

Increased prevalence of chronic diseases and surgical conditions raises demand for skilled surgeons.

Advancements in Surgical Techniques:

Innovations in robotic surgeries create new opportunities and expand the scope of surgical care.

Expanding Medical Infrastructure:

The growth of hospitals and specialized clinics in Pakistan offers more job opportunities.

Where can you work?
In public and private hospitals, specialized surgical centers, and academic institutions. Opportunities also exist in research facilities and private practice.
Education
Complete MBBS Degree:

Obtain a Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) to gain foundational medical knowledge.

Pursue Surgical Residency:

Enroll in a residency program specializing in surgery to receive advanced training and hands-on experience.

Pass Board Certification Exam:

Successfully pass the relevant board examinations to become a certified surgeon.

Where can you study?
Allama Iqbal Medical University, Lahore:

Offers a comprehensive surgical residency program with extensive clinical training.

Dow University of Health Sciences, Karachi:

Features a surgical program with a focus on modern surgical practices.

Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad:

Provides advanced training in surgery with emphasis on clinical skills and research.

Expenses & Scholarships
The cost ranges from PKR 50,000 to PKR 500,000 annually. Financial aid and scholarships from institutions and government programs, such as those from the Higher Education Commission (HEC), can help cover these expenses based on merit and need.

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