🎙️ Dr Dan Behind the Scalpel – Episode: How to Choose the Right Surgeon

Choosing a surgeon is one of the most important decisions you’ll ever make — whether it’s for yourself or a loved one. In this episode, Dr Dan shares his insights on what really matters when deciding who should operate on you. From formal qualifications to soft skills like trust and communication, this guide gives you the confidence to make an informed choice.

🔎 What You’ll Learn in This Episode

• Why your surgeon must hold a qualification from a recognised College of Surgeons.

• The importance of being a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons in Australia.

• Why comfort and trust with your surgeon matter just as much as technical skill.

• How fellowship training provides additional expertise in complex procedures.

• The right way to ask: “How many of these procedures have you actually done?”

• How surgeons can (and should) measure their outcomes, from metrics to before-and-after photos.

• Why it’s perfectly okay — even encouraged — to seek a second opinion.

🗝️ Key Notes

• Always check for accredited surgical training — don’t assume every “doctor” is a surgeon.

• The Australian training program is among the toughest worldwide.

• Extra fellowship training is especially valuable for complex or delicate surgeries.

• Numbers matter: ask how often your surgeon performs the procedure you need.

• A good surgeon should welcome your questions and never pressure you into surgery.

💡 Key Takeaway

The right surgeon is qualified, experienced, and — most importantly — someone you feel comfortable with. If you don’t, it’s always worth getting another opinion.