Throughout history you can find distinguished surgeons that with their abilities have changed the way of how this medical specialty treats injuries or diseases. Some of them are: C. Walton Lillehei, first successful open heart surgery, Christiaan Barnard, first heart transplantation or Lars Leksell, inventor of radiosurgery. Certainly, thanks to their intellectual capacity to innovate and to develop new methods as well as their aptitudes we have obtained great benefits in the field of health. However, for the reason that is one of the most complicated disciplines in the medical sciences, the long way for its perfection was difficult and many mistakes cost the life of many.
Nowadays, if your doctor suggest you to have an operation, definitely, you will have less risk that those poor persons that were operated in ancient times. However, you should always look for qualified surgeons in order to have a successful surgery. You will find that there are several ways to impartially evaluate the surgeon that you need. For example, in the United States, the American College of Surgeons recommends surgeons with a certification approved by the American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS). This way, you will be sure that you are in the hands of a physician with high quality preparation.
On the other hand, if you want to become a surgeon and improve the field of surgery as other noted colleagues have before; always remember to study and to read much to obtain the sufficient knowledge for a successful career. Many persons with severe diseases are waiting for good doctors like you to take care of them!