In this "Giants in Plastic Surgery" episode of the PRS Global Open Deep Cuts Podcast, we sit down with Professor Venkat Ramakrishnan, a globally respected plastic and reconstructive surgeon with over four decades of experience.

Known for his pioneering work in microsurgical breast reconstruction, Prof. Ramakrishnan has performed more than 1,500 DIEP and TUG flap procedures and currently leads the Breast Reconstruction Service at the renowned St. Andrew's Centre for Plastic Surgery and Burns in Chelmsford, UK. His private practice spans Brentwood and Southend-on-Sea, and he continues to be a leading figure in aesthetic and reconstructive surgery, as well as a mentor through his fellowship program and professorship at Anglia Ruskin University.

In this conversation, Prof. Ramakrishnan shares the personal and professional journey that led him into plastic surgery, including his decision to train in Australia to build an independent career, rather than follow in the footsteps of his father, a prominent plastic surgeon in India. We explore his international training experience across India, Australia, and the United States, and how these shaped his unique surgical perspective and relentless focus on efficiency in the operating room. He also offers insight into managing work-life balance, a topic particularly resonant for younger surgeons navigating demanding careers.

We round out the discussion with Prof. Ramakrishnan's views on the role of AI in plastic surgery—where he sees both promise and limitations—and reflections on the moment he considers his proudest professional achievement. With warmth, honesty, and a wealth of experience, Prof. Ramakrishnan offers invaluable lessons for surgeons at every stage of their careers.

Read a classic PRS Global Open article by Dr. Ramakrishnan and co-authors, "The "Needle-splint" Technique: A Method of Accurate Apposition and Eversion during Microvascular Anastomosis": https://journals.lww.com/prsgo/fulltext/2020/01000/the__needle_splint__technique__a_method_of.29.aspx

Your host, Dr. Vimal Gokani, is a senior Specialty Registrar in plastic surgery in London, England. Your producer & editor, Charlene Kok, is a Year 4 Medical Student in Imperial College London, England, with a keen interest in Plastic Surgery.

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