Jacobus Benjamin Opperman

Background

About Jacobus Benjamin Opperman

I’m an Otorhinolaryngologist (ENT Surgeon) with a special interest in Head and Neck Oncological surgery; Endoscopic Sinus surgery and Base of Skull surgery. I believe research and evidence based medicine is the foundation of quality holistic healthcare. My passion for research extends to a number of research endeavours I have been involved in, including improving Paediatric pain control post-Adenotonsillectomy; The Microbiological patterns of complicated sinusitis; Laryngomalacia; Laryngeal cancer, etc. Being a doctor, one has the immense responsibility and also privilege to treat a patient’s illness and facilitate the body’s healing process. Even more so, being a surgeon, the patient offers you almost complete autonomy over their body especially when under general anaesthesia. With this being said, one needs to understand the sheer gravitas of the patient’s decision to do so and with that in mind focus one’s thoughts, abilities and skill to offer the patient the best possible outcome post-operatively. This doctor-patient relationship is built on the foundation of trust and respect, something I strive for on a daily basis, so that each and every one of my patients feels cared for and knows that their specific needs will be met. I have also come to the realization that one has to always retain a teachable spirit even if one considers to have mastered a skill in a surgical discipline. This attitude of being a ‘Student of Life and a Student for Life’ is something I strive for daily. Adopting a humble approach to my daily vocation stands me in good stead as I look to improve my clinical acumen, surgical skills and further my experience through on-going learning.