What does it take to become the most recommended healthcare leader, especially a surgeon, and if the person is a woman?

You would say that is a no-brainer. Of course, exceptional surgical expertise, leadership skills, decision-making, empathy and communication, and a commitment to continuous learning.

However, I would point out that you haven’t considered the person’s gender. Because if the person is a woman, even if of the calibre of Dr Prriya Eshpuniyani, they have to

~Overcome a Rigid Gender Bias: The field of surgery has a history of being male-dominated. Women surgeons have always been expected to work harder to prove their skills and gain recognition.

~Work-Life Balance: In modern times, surgery is a demanding career. Women surgeons, especially those with families, must always find strategies to balance work and personal life.

~Mentorship and Networking: Finding mentors who understand the challenges faced by women in surgery can be invaluable. Building a strong network with other female surgeons can provide support and opportunities for collaboration.

A Calibre of the Highest Degree

Dr Prriya epitomizes a calibre of the highest degree in the field of thoracic surgery and surgical oncology. As the country’s first certified diplomate of National Board, Thoracic Surgeon (DrNB Thoracic Surgery), she brings a wealth of expertise and experience to her practice. With exclusive training in both open and minimally invasive thoracic surgeries, encompassing lung, oesophagus, mediastinum, and chest wall procedures, Dr Prriya stands at the forefront of innovation and excellence in her field.

Her illustrious career includes a fellowship in Surgical Oncology from the renowned Tata Medical Center in Kolkata, further solidifying her credentials as a leading authority in cancer care. Additionally, her specialized training in uniportal Thoracoscopy surgery at Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital and a fellowship of Advanced Robotic and Innovative Surgery (FARIS), first in the country again underscores her commitment to staying at the forefront of technological advancements.

With over 20 years of experience in surgery and extensive training in thoracic and gastrointestinal surgeries, Dr Prriya sets an unparalleled standard of excellence, earning her a reputation as a true pioneer and luminary in her field.

Dr Prriya Eshpuniyani stands as a beacon of excellence in thoracic surgery and surgical oncology, carving a distinguished path through her unparalleled expertise and unwavering commitment to patient care. As a Consultant Thoracic Surgeon, her contributions have not only shaped the landscape of medical practice but also redefined standards of care in India.

With a formidable academic background and extensive training, Dr Eshpuniyani has emerged as a leading authority in her field. Her journey through the corridors of medical education has been marked by dedication, perseverance, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.

A Saga of Strongest Emergence

Dr Prriya’s journey is nothing short of a saga of the strongest emergence in the realm of thoracic surgery. As the country’s first woman certified thoracic surgeon, she has navigated challenges and broken barriers in a patriarchal society to establish herself as a trailblazer in her field.

Despite facing initial resistance and scepticism from peers, patients, and caregivers, Dr Prriya’s unwavering determination and resilience have paved the way for acceptance and recognition. Collaborating closely with pulmonologists, medical oncologists, and a multidisciplinary team of physiotherapists and nutritionists, she provides comprehensive treatment for all thoracic pathologies, ensuring holistic patient care.

Dr Prriya’s journey has been marked by perseverance and dedication, supported by the guidance and mentorship of strong role models. Despite the long and arduous road, she has remained steadfast in her commitment to delivering personalized attention and care to each patient. Her tireless efforts and unwavering focus on patient well-being have earned her respect and admiration within the medical community and beyond.

Throughout her career, Dr Prriya has honed her skills across various renowned medical institutions, including KEM Hospital and Tata Medical Center Kolkata, where she garnered invaluable experience in GI, Thoracic, and Breast Surgery. Her journey of learning and growth culminated in her association with the prestigious Asian Cancer Institute, a leading oncology centre, where she has made significant contributions since 2017.

A Constant Quest for Excellence

Dr Prriya’s quest for excellence extends beyond borders, as evidenced by her pursuit of specialized training abroad. She completed a Uniportal VATS fellowship at Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, Shanghai, enhancing her proficiency in minimally invasive surgical techniques. Additionally, her certification as a Robotic Surgeon underscores her commitment to leveraging cutting-edge technology to benefit her patients.

A testament to her academic prowess, Dr Eshpuniyani boasts an impressive repertoire of national and international publications, cementing her status as a thought leader in her field. Her presence as a faculty member at numerous prestigious conferences attests to her expertise and standing within the medical community.

Dr Prriya’s leadership style is often recognized as a driving force behind her clinic’s achievements. Highlighting her approach to it, she says leadership is understanding that it’s teamwork. Success in terms of satisfied cured patients is possible only with a team and working together. “My team includes a intensivist , pulmonologist, good physiotherapy and nutritionist, excellent anaesthetist, and good supportive staff. We all work together to give individualized care to each patient for best results,” she says.

Her professional qualities and values, like ‘empathy, compassion, being available for any emergency and able to explain the process of the treatment to the patient in their language in simple terms and regular, timely counselling,’ are greatly admired by Dr Prriya’s patients.

Overcoming Obstacles

Yet, there are challenges. According to her, the biggest is that, even today, thoracic surgery is a different ball game and needs to be stressed more to corporates unaware of the levels of expertise required to do major thoracic surgeries. Constant endeavour to keep stressing this point is the major challenge, and “That’s what our driving force is.”

Dr Prriya furthers that surgical solutions, especially thoracic ones, are crucial today. Video-assisted and robotic surgery is the current and future of thoracic surgery. With lesser pain, earlier recovery, and early return to daily life, it will be mainstream in the coming years.

Beyond her clinical practice, Dr Eshpuniyani is deeply invested in cancer awareness initiatives and early detection programs, reflecting her unwavering commitment to advancing public health. Her advocacy for affordable cancer care underscores her compassion and dedication to ensuring equitable access to treatment for all patients.

Dr Prriya’s professional affiliations with esteemed organizations such as the Association of Surgeons of India (ASI), Indian Association of Cardiothoracic Surgeons (IACTS), and Indian Association of Surgical Oncology (IASO) further attest to her standing within the medical community. As a member of these prestigious societies, she remains at the forefront of advancements in her field, driving innovation and excellence in patient care.

The Transformative Power of a Doctor

In her advice to budding surgeons, especially women, who aspire to venture into the surgical space, Dr Prriya says, “Come prepared for a long struggle. Stay focused. You may be required to work harder than your male contemporaries—do it. Take this branch only if you are passionate about it. It has been proven, even in the literature, that patients operated by women surgeons have better short-term and long-term outcomes. That should be the motivation and inspiration.”

Dr Prriya’s journey is a testament to the transformative power of passion, perseverance, and dedication in pursuing excellence in healthcare. As she continues to forge ahead, her saga inspires aspiring medical professionals and is a testament to the power of resilience, determination, and unwavering dedication in the face of adversity.

With her unparalleled expertise, unwavering commitment to patient care, and relentless pursuit of innovation, Dr Prriya Eshpuniyani continues to inspire and elevate the standards of medical practice at Apollo Hospital, KDAH Navi Mumbai, and MGM Hospital Vashi, leaving an indelible mark on the landscape of thoracic surgery and surgical oncology in India.

Patient Testimonials:

*****Yojana Shetty, “Thank you for everything you have done for me and my family! You are a very good human with a beautiful heart, a selfless, wonderful, caring doctor who is always friendly and comforting to your patients. A very good counsellor. Keep smiling and keep doing what you do so well. You truly make a difference in the medical field.”

***** Pravin Kamble, “Initially, we were out of hope that when some other Surgeon advised that your mother needs some other treatment instead of big and critical surgery, that is “Gatric pullup surgery”, while other treatments like oesophagus dilation was not very effective which we were doing since one year. Then, some Gastro surgeons suggested my mother continue with a Jejunostomy feeding tube or go with big surgery, which may or may not be successful. But one quote says, “God is always with us, guiding us through every step of our journey, and suddenly sends person like Angel., and that Angel is nothing but “Dr Prriya Eshpuniyani.” When we met them for the first time, they advised that this big surgery is possible with lots of positive benefits more than dilation and JT Feeding tube, and then finally, the Doctor accomplished this surgery successfully. After this big surgery done by Dr Prriya, I can simply say they are truly life savers, LEGEND, have kind-hearted personalities, are very careful and strict with patient care, and are neat. Now, My mother can eat orally and is very happy, which is only due to Dr Prriya., and I must recommend this Doctor to others. Lastly, five stars are not enough for you., but it must be more than five stars, that’s it.”

***** Jitendra Mali, “I would like to thank Dr Prriya Eshpuniyani, Madam. She is a Thoracic Surgeon and Surgical Oncologist in Navi Mumbai. She is a trained VATS and Robotic Thoracic and Onco Surgeon. God has sent a gift on earth for the patients in the form of Dr Prriya Madam. My father, Mr Jagdish, was diagnosed with some major lung disease. It was a very critical case. But, Dr Prriya Madam has done this surgery very sharply and given new life to my father. This is the new life of my father after surgery. Now, my father is living a new life with us. Thank you so much for all that you do for your patients. The world needs more doctors and humans like you. Once again, thanks to Dr Prriya Madam and her team, all doctors, ambulance drivers, nurses, sister, ward boy and all ground staff…. 🙏”

***** Nazia Abidi, “I met Dr Prriya at Juhu Criticare for Tracheal Tumour Surgery, and instantly, I was relieved that my case was in her hands. A doctor who knows the best option for her Patient, that was my impression of her. From the 1st day of consultation till now, when I am recovering post-surgery, she has been an amazing support along with being an amazing Doctor. Every step was explained. A thorough professional, Dr Prriya.”

***** Pappy Patel, “Dr Prriya is truly an angel. Thank you so so so much for being extremely caring and considerate during this hard time for my thyroid cancer. Her bedside manners are so professional, and you deserve a standing ovation for answering all of our concerns/questions. She took the time to listen and hear me out. She is really a blessing to this facility and I would give her triple five stars! God bless you. Thank you again for treating me well. You gave me a life, Dr Prriya. I’m here with my daughter just because of you. Thank you again and again.”

For more testimonials, please visit https://thethoracicclinic.com/testimonials/.