Oluwatobi "Tobi" Afolayan, M.D., thoracic surgeon, is now seeing patients at Texas Oncology Surgical Specialists–San Antonio Medical Center and Westover Hills. Dr. Afolayan shares two advancements in thoracic surgery that have amazed him most and what he is looking forward to exploring in San Antonio.
Did you always know you wanted to be a doctor, specifically specializing in thoracic surgery?
My first exposure to thoracic surgery was early on in medical school. I had an interest in surgery, but thoracic surgery was one of the specialties that really piqued my interest during my shadowing experience.
What is the most valuable lesson you have learned in your medical education?
The value of treating the whole patient while addressing the disease at hand is probably the most valuable lesson I have learned. This could mean a referral for an overdue colonoscopy while discussing next steps in management of a lung nodule. I strive to be available, honest, and a partner with my patients as I walk through their medical journey alongside them.
What amazes you most about the advances you’ve seen in thoracic surgery?
There are two advancements in thoracic surgery that have amazed me the most. First is the advancement of immunotherapy in treating cancer. It has been instrumental in the care of not only metastatic disease but also in some early-stage malignancy. The second relates to the increased use of robotic technology which has allowed for the ability to perform more surgeries in unique, minimally invasive ways. Challenging cases such as airway reconstruction, lung resection, and esophageal resection can now be done more efficiently with improved dexterity and superb visualization.
What does a perfect non-workday look like to you?
A perfect non-workday will start with an early run, followed by spending time with family visiting museums and parks around the city. I also enjoy home improvement projects, building a website, or listening to audio books.
What is one piece of advice you would give to your 18-year-old self?
The advice would be, continue to work hard and it will pay off in the end. Anything can be achieved with discipline, hard work, and resilience.
How do you get involved within your community?
I am usually involved in any project that increases awareness of cancer, especially lung cancer, within my community.
What are you looking forward to exploring in San Antonio?
I have begun exploring the parks and museums in the area, and plan to visit the surrounding towns neighboring San Antonio.