Apr 19, 2024 | admin
Meet Roderick Y. Kim DDS, MD, MBA, FACS, an accomplished Board-Certified Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon with a Certificate of Added Qualifications in Head and Neck Oncologic and Reconstructive Surgery.
How did you become passionate about head and neck oncologic surgery?
Throughout my career, my mentors have been a significant source of motivation and inspiration. Many of them were head and neck oncologic surgeons, who tirelessly took care of the patients going through a very difficult time of their lives. The compassion that was shown through my mentors, and the hope that could be restored is what created the initial spark and continues to motivate me today.
What percentage of your practice today is oncologic?
80% of my practice today is treating and caring for head and neck oncologic and microvascular reconstructive surgery patients.
What makes your work rewarding?
When the patients return to their normal function and want to discuss small details such as their scar appearance, I know I have done my job of providing the best oncologic and reconstructive care. If the patient no longer worries about their disease or their function, it is tremendously rewarding.
How has this line of work affected you personally?
I am careful to give the people the benefit of the doubt. Oncologic patients are inundated with so much and it can be literally the worst day of their life. Many people are going through their lives experiencing something similar, and everyone deserves a break.
“I foresee AI and machine learning improving our diagnostic and ultimately surgical capabilities to improve earlier detection and better oncologic margins.”
What advancements in the field have you witnessed in your career, and what do you foresee in the future?
One of my partners has been instrumental in providing in-house 3D printing and dental rehabilitation in conjunction with oncologic and microvascular surgery. I believe this is one of the great advances from the OMS community and CAQ community. I foresee AI and machine learning improving our diagnostic and ultimately surgical capabilities to improve earlier detection and better oncologic margins.
Do you have any advice for patients, or aspiring oral surgeons, based on your experience?
For both of the audience, the tough times will pass. The bravery shown by patients to undergo such extensive surgeries and come out top is awe inspiring. For aspiring oral surgeons, the ability to provide such care for our patients is worth the tough education and hours necessary to hone in your craft and knowledge.
About Roderick Y. Kim DDS, MD, MBA, FACS: Dr. Kim is the Director of Research, Co-Fellowship Director, and Vice Division Director at the Division of Maxillofacial Oncology and Reconstructive Surgery within John Peter Smith Health Network’s Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery.
April is Head and Neck Cancer Awareness Month. In recognition of this important time for raising awareness about these cancers, we are sharing interviews with several of our surgeons. Find others on our blog »