When you think about plastic surgery, you’re likely only thinking about cosmetic surgeries. But a plastic surgeon is involved in a lot more procedures than you might imagine. From skin cancer removals to eyelid surgeries and so much more, Dr. Sewit Amde, a plastic surgeon with Hancock Health, has dedicated her life to making her patients’ bodies better.
We sat down with her this month to get to know her.
Q: So, Dr. Amde, tell us a little bit about yourself!
A: Sure. I’ve worked at Hancock Regional Hospital for three years, though I’ve been serving this community for twelve years now. I have three wonderful children that keep my husband and me very busy when not at work.
Q: What does a typical day look like for you as a plastic surgeon?
A: Our office sees new patients and follow-ups on Tuesdays and Thursdays, and we are in the operating room on Wednesdays and Fridays. Our specialty covers a broad range of procedures including breast reconstruction after a mastectomy, breast reduction, eyelid or hand surgeries, skin cancer removal, and much more.
In our clinic, we meet patients for initial consultations in person and we continue to see them all through their journey until they are fully healed after surgery. We also have virtual options available in specific situations.
Q: Wow, you keep pretty busy, then! Do you have a favorite part of your job?
A: The cosmetic and reconstructive changes we can make for patients who have various body form and function concerns are often life changing. It’s an absolute privilege to be part of such visible changes in my patients.
Several of my favorite and memorable stories are about my breast reconstruction patients who have bravely gone through cancer surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation. Much of these treatments are out of their control, but when they come to me for the reconstruction stage, they are presented with several options that cater to their needs and wants. Some patients really have fun with the process and share a good laugh with us!
Q: That’s amazing! I imagine you get patients from time to time who are nervous about procedures. How do you put them at ease?
A: Given that I perform surgery, almost all my patients are nervous—especially on the day of surgery. I let them know this is a totally normal emotion and we are all here to take great care of them throughout the process. I also explain what we’re doing each step of the way and what to expect, which helps ease some anxieties.
Q: How do you make health possible for your patients?
A: First, by educating them about surgical and non-surgical options for the problems they present with. We then decide together the safest and best option. In the candidates for surgery, I have the privilege of delivering the change they are seeking, which means a lot to me.
Q: Is there anything you’d want people to know about plastic surgery?
A: Plastic surgery is a very broad specialty! It entails so much more than what popular reality TV will showcase. There are many medically necessary procedures that a plastic surgeon performs that are covered by insurance.
Thanks for taking the time to speak with us, Dr. Amde!
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