A Glimpse into the Life of a Cardiothoracic Surgeon- Dr. Johnson

Becoming a cardiothoracic surgeon is no easy feat—it’s a relentless pursuit that demands everything you’ve got. The road is paved with sacrifices, failures, and unyielding dedication to saving lives. This journey requires more than just technical expertise; it demands resilience, an unbreakable will, and the ability to perform under pressure. But behind the precision of the scalpel and the sterile environment of the operating room lies a deeply human story—one of personal challenges, life-altering moments, and the constant balancing act between professional achievement and personal cost.

This isn’t just a job—it’s a calling. In the following narrative, I’ll pull back the curtain on what it truly means to live this life—the highs, the lows, and the realities of a field that will demand everything from you. For aspiring medical professionals or anyone curious about the surgical world, this is a raw, unvarnished look into the life of a surgeon who sees each patient as an individual, not just a case.

Let’s explore the heartbeat of this demanding yet rewarding career.

Q: What is your job title, and how long have you been in this role?

A: My job title is cardiothoracic surgeon. I’ve been in this role at my current institution for three years, but I’ve been practicing cardiothoracic surgery since 2017.

Q: Can you describe a typical day at your job?

A: A typical day starts early. I wake up, have my boiled eggs and coffee—coffee is a must—and then head to the hospital for morning rounds. During rounds, I see patients and make plans with my team before heading into surgery. While I’m in surgery, consultations come in from the emergency room or inpatient floors. Sometimes, emergency cases get added to my schedule. It’s not unusual to go from morning rounds to back-to-back surgeries. It goes from zero to 100 very quickly.

Q: What is the most rewarding aspect of working in your field?

A: Definitely hearing from patients after surgery. It’s not just about their hospital experience but how much better they feel with their symptoms. Some patients are incredibly appreciative and come back to thank you. Knowing I’ve changed someone’s life is one of the best parts of my job.

Q: Did you face any challenges on your journey to becoming a healthcare professional? How did you overcome them?

A: Absolutely. There were so many challenges along the way. For example, after finishing a residency year, I faced a contract that wasn’t renewed, which forced me to reassess my goals. I ended up taking a research-only position, but I didn’t give up on my dream. Eventually, I found an opportunity to join a new program in Miami, and I became part of its first graduating class. That experience taught me a lot about perseverance and determination. Rejection was also a big part of my journey. I applied to over 20 medical schools and faced rejection after rejection. But I didn’t let it stop me. I kept going, and I’m so glad I did.

Q: How do you maintain a work-life balance in such a demanding industry?

A: I’m still figuring that out, honestly. I try to prioritize what matters most. Yes, I’m a surgeon, but that’s what I do—it’s not who I am. I’m a husband and father first. My family is my main support system, and I remind myself that they’re the most important thing. It’s crucial to have a family to go home to, and I make sure to reflect on that. Money and career success are important, but they can’t replace the people who support you.

Q: What do you see as some of the most pressing issues facing the healthcare industry today?

A: Affording healthcare is the biggest issue I see. Just the other day, a patient told me she couldn’t afford her blood pressure medication. Without it, she’s at risk for serious complications, like an aortic dissection, which could lead to surgery.

It’s heartbreaking because surgeries cost so much more than basic medication, but many patients can’t afford either. Hospitals often absorb the cost of surgeries for patients who can’t pay, which drives up costs for everyone. I think the government needs to step in with bipartisan solutions, like grants, to help people afford healthcare. It’s a complex issue, and we need creative solutions that don’t just rely on taxing already struggling families.

Q: How do you stay motivated and inspired during challenging times?

A: My faith keeps me grounded. I pray before surgeries and thank God for another day. Every day in my job is like a puzzle—you never know what you’re going to get. Medicine is an art as much as a science. You train to recognize patterns, but patients often present outside those patterns. That’s what I love about medicine—it forces you to think creatively.

Q: What are some misconceptions about your field, and how would you address them?

A: One big misconception is that cardiothoracic surgeons are arrogant or unapproachable. I think this stereotype is perpetuated by TV shows where surgeons walk around acting like they run the hospital. While that might have been true for older generations, today’s surgeons are more collaborative and approachable. Times have changed, and so has our profession.

Q: How has your perception of the healthcare industry changed since you entered the field?

A: When I first started, I was very idealistic. Over time, I’ve realized how much the business side of healthcare impacts clinical decisions. Hospitals need to make money to continue helping patients, which creates pressure on clinicians. It’s an interconnected cycle—you have to think like a clinician and a businessperson. Balancing those priorities can be difficult, but it’s necessary.

Q: What advice would you give to pre-med students pursuing a career in cardiothoracic surgery?

A: Find a mentor and stick with them. Don’t give up, even if you struggle with prerequisite courses. I had a professor who doubted my ability to succeed in medical school. Instead of letting it discourage me, I used it as motivation. I ended up earning the highest grade in his course and went on to become a cardiothoracic surgeon.

Don’t let other people dictate your life. Rejections and setbacks will happen, but they don’t define you. Keep pushing forward.

Note from the Editor

Closing:

Becoming a cardiothoracic surgeon is not for the faint-hearted, but it is a career that requires unmatched skill, passion, and a deep sense of purpose. From early mornings in the operating room to the long-term impact of changing lives, the rewards of this field extend far beyond professional success. Through this honest conversation, we’ve seen that resilience, determination, and a strong support system are vital to overcoming the challenges of this demanding career.

For those aspiring to follow this path, remember—setbacks are not failures; they’re stepping stones. Your potential is never defined by others’ opinions, but by your own perseverance and commitment to the journey. Whether you’re already on your medical path or just exploring the world of healthcare, I hope this insight into the life of a cardiothoracic surgeon motivates you to embrace your own ambitions with courage, determination, and unshakable belief in your potential.