Interview with a General Surgeon!

Author

Vivaan Gupta
July 27, 2024

Introduction

This interview features Dr. Viken Konyalian, a general surgeon with over 15 years of experience. He discusses various aspects of his career, including the challenges and rewards of the profession.

Q&A

  1. Why did you choose general surgery?

    • Dr. Konyalian initially considered other specialties but was drawn to the variety of procedures and the combination of medicine and surgery involved in general surgery.

  2. What is the most challenging aspect of being a general surgeon?

    • The most challenging aspects are long hours, time away from family, and the unpredictability of operating room availability.

  3. What is the most rewarding aspect of being a general surgeon?

    • The most rewarding part is saving lives and making a significant impact on patients' lives.

  4. What is a typical day like for a general surgeon?

    • A typical day involves a mix of operating room time, clinic duties, and administrative tasks.

  5. What advice would you give to someone considering a career in general surgery?

    • Dr. Konyalian advises aspiring surgeons to be prepared for long hours, high stress, and the importance of work-life balance.

  6. How do you balance your personal and professional life?

    • He prioritizes spending time with family and incorporating exercise into his routine to manage stress.

  7. What is the future of general surgery?

    • While not explicitly addressed, Dr. Konyalian hints at the increasing role of technology in surgical procedures.

  8. What surgeries are performed by general surgeons?

    • Common surgeries include gallbladder removal, hernia repairs, and some breast and colon surgeries.

  9. What is the craziest case you've ever encountered?

    • Dr. Konyalian describes a case involving a toothpick lodged in a patient's small intestine.

  10. How do you handle emotionally difficult cases?

  • He emphasizes the importance of discussing cases with colleagues and learning from complications.

  1. How similar is general surgery to Grey's Anatomy?

  • Dr. Konyalian finds the medical accuracy of Grey's Anatomy exaggerated and unrealistic.

Conclusion

Dr. Viken Konyalian provides a candid overview of the life of a general surgeon, highlighting the challenges, rewards, and personal sacrifices involved in the profession.

Go watch the full video here. See you guys tomorrow!