Ep. 222 Women in Surgery: Navigating Challenges and Triumphs

Episode Summary

What does it really take to build a successful career as a woman in surgery?

In this episode of BOSS Business of Surgery, host Dr. Amy Vertrees sits down with the editors of the new book Women in Surgery: Navigating Challenges and Triumphs to discuss the real stories behind surgical careers.

Instead of theoretical advice, this book shares honest experiences from surgeons across generations—covering imposter syndrome, mentorship, leadership, motherhood, advocacy, and resilience.

The conversation explores how women surgeons support each other, challenge broken systems, and continue shaping the future of the profession.

What You'll Learn

• Why surgical careers rarely follow a smooth path
• How imposter syndrome shows up at every career stage
• Why mentorship and sponsorship are essential in surgery
• The reality of balancing surgical careers and family life
• What it means to advocate for patients—even when it's difficult
• How resilience evolves from early career to senior leadership

Stories Highlighted in the Book

The book includes stories from a wide range of contributors—from surgical pioneers to modern leaders.

One powerful chapter by breast surgeon Beth Dupree describes becoming a whistleblower after discovering missed cancer diagnoses at her institution, demonstrating the courage sometimes required to advocate for patients.

Another chapter highlights pioneering burn surgeon Mary Lou Patton, representing the generation of women who helped open the doors for those who followed.

Editor Perspectives

Each editor shares personal experiences reflected in the book.

Dr. Kahyun Yoon-Flannery discusses the emotional experience of losing a patient who had become a close connection during treatment.

Dr. Maureen Moore reflects on raising four children while building a surgical career and the importance of a supportive partner.

Dr. Asanthi Ratnasekara explores the importance of surgical partnerships and how finding supportive colleagues can make or break a career.

Key Themes from the Episode

• Imposter syndrome affects surgeons at every level

• There is no perfect balance between career and life

• Women surgeons often succeed through strong professional networks

• Difficult conversations and disagreements are part of meaningful collaboration

• Sharing stories helps future surgeons navigate their careers
  
  Find the book here.