The latest episode of “Are We There Yet?” in association with Mater Private Network, delivers a candid and insightful conversation, as host Kathryn Thomas sits down with Consultant Plastic, Reconstructive, and Aesthetic Surgeon Jamie Martin-Smith to discuss breast reconstruction, patient-led surgery, and the emotional and physical realities of life-changing procedures.
This episode explores what patients can expect when considering breast reconstruction, whether following a cancer diagnosis or elective breast enhancement surgery.
Martin-Smith also reflects on the emotional and physical impact of breast surgery and highlights the innovative techniques transforming the field of plastic and reconstructive surgery in Ireland.
Outside the podcast studio, Martin-Smith is recognised both nationally and internationally for his expertise in complex breast reconstruction surgery.
A graduate of Trinity College Dublin in 2008, he began his first consultant role at the world-renowned Royal Marsden Hospital in London in 2018 after completing a microvascular oncological reconstructive fellowship.
Since joining Mater Private Network in Dublin, Martin-Smith established the autologous (DIEP) breast reconstructive service in July 2022. The service has since grown into the country’s largest private own-tissue breast reconstruction unit.
During the conversation, Martin-Smith speaks openly about the deeply personal nature of reconstructive surgery following a cancer diagnosis and stresses that reconstruction should always remain a patient-led choice.
“The quickest, simplest operation here to get you through cancer is a mastectomy,” he explains. “It’s a long journey.”
The episode also highlights the rewarding aspects of reconstructive surgery, with Martin-Smith reflecting on the emotional significance of helping patients regain confidence and move forward after treatment.
Speaking about the most fulfilling part of his work, he says, “It is a happy ending…pretty much all the time”.
The latest episode of “Are We There Yet? with Kathryn Thomas” is now available on the Onic Player, YouTube, and all major podcast platforms.
Listen to the full episode below: