Dr Tom Oliphant is a consultant dermatologist at Newcastle’s Royal Victoria Infirmary where he specialises in non-melanoma skin cancer, melanoma, Mohs micrographic surgery, dermoscopy and laser treatments. Tom took up his role at the RVI in 2011.
In Episode 5, we see Tom team up with consultant eye surgeon Lucy Clarke to perform surgery and facial reconstruction on 60-year-old Katherine who has a basal cell carcinoma in the corner of her eye. Tom removes the tumour and Lucy reconstructs Katherine’s eye area.
What made you get into this area of work?
I had great advice along the way and once I dipped my toe in the water it seemed a good fit for me.
What is your favourite part of your work?
The daily contact with patients and colleagues, the satisfaction of a job well done
What would you say to someone who is interested in progressing a similar career?
Go for it, I have no regrets and you will never be short of work.
What do you like to do in your spare time?
I have three young kids; spare time is a distant memory.
How was the filming?
It was great to meet people who come from a non-healthcare background. Pick ups were a bit of a challenge.
How to you feel about being part of the series?
I feel lucky that I had the opportunity to raise awareness about Mohs micrographic surgery, something that I’m a bit keen on as you might have guessed.
