Italian Introductions
Milan, the artistic, economic and financial epicentre of Italy — steeped in an intricate blend of minimalistic modernity and cultural class. This blend exaggerated while writing this from the warmth of contemporary café overlooking La Duomo. The perfect backdrop for the next step of this adventure.
An adventure which entails learning from a person who can only be described as Vito Corleone (for those of you not familiar with the 1970s movie — firstly go watch it, and secondly he is the Godfather himself) of Italian Facial Plastic surgery — Professor Pietro Palma. A man as engrained to the field of rhinoplasty as Milan itself is to fashion. He is the president of the International Federation of Facial Plastic Surgery, the immediate past-president of the European Academy of Facial Plastic Surgery and on the presidential council of the European Confederation of Otorhinolaryngology.
He is also one of the pioneers of a hybrid rhinoplasty technique utilising all the strengths of an external approach but without the scarring at the columella. To top it all? He is genuinely an awesome human being! (and that is not only because he allowed us an insight into his consultations, techniques and operating theatres — although that helps).
This week has been filled with watching consultation styles adapted to different patients, from different countries and different expectations, mixed with a fluid management style tailored to the individual. The key component of his philosophy seeming to be the uniqueness of every patient — and mixing a multitude of techniques to achieve a realistic and natural outcome both surgeon and individual can be proud of.
I think ultimately what has been gained through this trip is not only the appreciation of new surgical techniques aimed purely to enhance quality, but also the emphasis on humanity during all interactions. We are not just cutters, we take a holistic approach of dreams and fears, walk a journey together and aim to reach an end point where there is not just satisfaction — but pride. To end, I’d like to say thank you to Professor Palma; another hero in the world of surgery.