When you ask kids these days what they want to become when they grow up, you’re likely to get answers like an astronaut, a YouTuber (yes, that’s a thing), an F1 driver, or even a makeup artist. For Dr Ganesh Ramalingam, his dream has always been to become a doctor. His passion for helping others through medicine was born when as a kid, he used to look up to the way his family GP was always able to heal him and his family members when they got sick.
About Dr. Ganesh Ramalingam’s Work
As Dr Ganesh Ramalingam got older, he developed an interest in surgery and now works at the G&L Surgical @ PanAsia Surgery as a specialist in bariatric surgery, gastrointestinal and advanced endoscopic/laparoscopic surgery.
Much of his day-to-day work involves laparoscopy and endoscopy. Laparoscopy specifically, is also often referred to as “keyhole surgery” because it enables surgeons to access the insides of their patients by making small, low-risk incisions instead of large and unsightly cuts.
That way, doctors get to see what’s inside the patient’s body and potentially spot diseases early. Plus, because it’s a small incision, the patient’s recovery time is significantly reduced.
Dr. Ganesh Ramalingam’s Advice to his Patients
When asked what his advice would be for someone that wants to stay healthy, Dr. Ganesh Ramalingam is clear in his answer: moderation is key. This doctor’s prescription for a healthier life involves exercising restraint and avoiding overdoing anything, whether it’s food, treats, alcohol or work. Yes, Dr Ramalingam lists stress as one of the major hindrances to health that most people have to deal with, and the best way he fights stress is by playing football with friends, spending quality time with family and writing. Exercise and rest are also important and pretty much anyone can stay fit these days according to him.
Dr. Ganesh Ramalingam’s Philosophy on Health
Interestingly enough, Dr. Ramalingam has always believed in temperance and balance, a philosophy which has served him throughout his life. At the age of 17 he played for the national team in the 19th Asian Schools Football Tournament in China, and then straight after high school he was recruited by the National Service as a Commando.
Dr. Ramalingam is obviously passionate about his work and often advises his patients and people in general to get a colonoscopy or gastroscopy screening on a regular basis. It’s a non-invasive procedure that most patients feel super relaxed throughout because of the mild sedative that’s administered. In most cases, no abnormalities are found but when they are it’s usually still early enough to fight by using simple treatments.
Although he’s a surgeon himself, Dr Ramalingam is the first to point out that surgery is not some magic silver bullet. There’s the recovery process afterward which is different for everyone.
Also while bariatric surgery can help obese patients lose weight, they still need to work towards adopting healthier lifestyle habits so that they can keep the weight off and reduce any risk of developing certain diseases.
Plans for the Future
At the core of Dr Ganesh Ramalingam’s work is his desire to help people and that’s where his passion lies. As a result, part of his future goals include spending more time doing medical aid volunteer work and even taking part in overseas missions.
