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AIBU?

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Original poster

To think that surgeons, while obviously skilled, often have a certain arrogance that makes them difficult to work with?

234 replies

WildHazelCritic · 03/08/2025 21:27

I completely respect the level of skill, training, and responsibility that comes with being a surgeon but I’ve noticed that many seem to have a certain… arrogance? Of course, confidence is necessary in that field but at what point does it tip over into being dismissive or difficult to work with?

I’ve heard stories (and witnessed myself) of surgeons being rude to colleagues, unwilling to take input, or acting like they’re above everyone else. Is this just part of the culture or do some surgeons lean into the “god complex” stereotype a little too much?

AIBU to think their attitude could sometimes use a reality check? Or is this just a misunderstanding of what the job requires?

OP posts:
AnnaMagnani · 03/08/2025 21:36

I think you have to be a certain sort of person to cut into someone's brain.

That isn't necessarily the same sort of person who is going to be great at communication.

We once saw DH's eye surgeon have an absolute rage when a theatre wasn't available for his surgery. While we were glad we didn't have to work with him, we were also incredibly grateful he was DH's surgeon as it was an emergency and apparently he had been on the rampage all day making sure DH got a slot.

TribeofFfive · 03/08/2025 21:35

There was a saying in the hospital I used to work at;
”What’s the difference between a surgeon and God? God doesn’t think he’s a surgeon”

Greybeardy · 03/08/2025 21:33

Just like in every profession, there are good ones and more difficult ones.

Throwawayagain1234 · 03/08/2025 21:33

I mean yes, they are (mostly) a bunch of egotistical control freaks BUT imagine believing that you can make someones life better by cutting in to them and making changes, you must need an ego the size of the planet to even break someone's skin. Also the opportunity to kill someone by mistake is huge so they need to be arsey control freaks to keep everything smooth and as safe as possible.

That said they can be some of the biggest dickheads to work with. You couldn't pay me to date/marry one.

steff13 · 03/08/2025 21:32

That's their reputation - egotistical, no bedside manner, etc.

ThreeCooks · 03/08/2025 21:31

My mum was a surgeon

she was an abusive alcoholic and has been described as ‘classic narc’

i should’ve been taken away by social services

helpfulperson · 03/08/2025 21:30

I think the ability to cut into and operate on a living person requires a certain level of arrogance.

Toddlerteaplease · 03/08/2025 21:30

Our gastroenterologists are also pretty awful. Most of our consultants are fortunately lovely. Particularly the plastic surgeons.

Toddlerteaplease · 03/08/2025 21:29

Yep. Some are utter arseholes. Spinal and neurosurgeons in my experience.

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