What else would a surgeon do besides surgeries?

See patients : We have to consult with patients before surgery in order to inform them of the risks and potential complications, as well as see them post-operatively in the hospital or office clinic. We also consult with colleagues who have surgical questions they cannot answer themselves. Surgeons are very busy and require extensive training in their specialties, which is why residencies are long and intense.

During my day?: See patients, answer phone calls, teach medical students and residents, deal with insurance companies, settle office disputes, walk my dog, serve on hospital committees, and try and get 5 hours of sleep a night!