We caught up with the brilliant and insightful William D. Tobler, Jr. MD, FACS a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
William D. , thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. What did your parents do right and how has that impacted you in your life and career?
My parents were excellent role models for me as I grew up. I entered the field of medicine after watching my father, a neurosurgeon, passionately enter each day more excited than the previous day. His commitment to the field of Neurosurgery and his patients was significant. I had the opportunity to observe several operations as a child and was hooked ever since. At the young age of 5 years old, my father was called in for an emergency in the middle of the night. My mother and sisters were away and my father had no choice but to take me in to the hospital with him. I vividly remember this experience and the excitement around it. I was actually able to observe part of the surgery and was hooked ever since. After that, I wanted to be a part of something special and was likewise drawn into the field of medicine.
As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?
I am a double-board certified Plastic Surgeon in Cincinnati, Ohio. I perform reconstructive and cosmetic surgeries. I enjoy the challenges associated with all aspects of plastic surgery. Many of my patients are cancer survivors that require reconstruction, such as breast reconstruction. The other side of my practice involves around patients who see me for aesthetic enhancement from minimally invasive procedures to surgical interventions. I am most proud of the opportunity to help people achieve their desired outcomes.
If you could go back, would you choose the same profession, specialty, etc.?
WIthout a doubt I would choose to be a Plastic Surgeon. I love the scientific challenges, diverse anatomy, and breadth of procedures I perform. I enjoy being able to impact patients lives in a positive way and to help them achieve their goals and outcomes.
Other than training/knowledge, what do you think is most helpful for succeeding in your field?
Do not give up! A career in Plastic Surgery is very challenging to achieve. After college I went to medical school for 4 years, then General Surgery residency for 5 years followed by 3 years in Plastic Surgery training. The hours are long and the challenges are intense. There are highs and lows during that time period and it can be very easy to throw in the towel at any time point. I am thankful for my friends and family who helped encourage me along every step.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.drtobes.com
- Instagram: drtobes.plasticsurgeon
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrToblerRMWP
- Linkedin: William Donn Tobler, Jr. MD