Peter Hodgkinson is a consultant cleft and plastic surgeon and clinical lead for the Newcastle cleft service.
During his university education in Manchester Peter completed a PhD in cleft lip and palate whilst pursuing his medical degree and graduating with Honours in 1985.
Peter was appointed as a consultant plastic surgeon in Newcastle in 1996. Over time he specialised more in cleft and facial surgery and has led the Newcastle Cleft Service since it started in 2002. For many years he was the only cleft surgeon in the north east.
In episode five Peter operates on 4-month-old Amelia who is having the first stage of a bilateral cleft lip repair.
What made you get into this area of work?
I undertook a PhD into craniofacial morphology in cleft lip and palate and my first scientific presentation about clefts was in 1985. My time then as a medical student and trainee surgeon was geared towards plastic surgery and working in cleft lip and palate.
I was lucky enough to achieve this. Plastic surgery has always been innovative, and I have been fortunate to introduce many successful new ideas throughout my career.
I’ve been in this role for 26 years now and still enjoy my clinical work.
What is your favourite part of your work?
Working with the families and children and making a difference that helps them throughout their lives.
What would you say to someone who is interested in progressing a similar career?
It can be a long road but is very rewarding.
What do you like to do in your spare time?
I’m a grandad. I enjoy DIY. My wife and I have a tandem – we go out on a weekend – its really good fun.
How was the filming?
The crew were great, less obtrusive than I feared and clearly very interested in the work that I and my team were doing.
How to you feel about being part of the series?
I’m delighted to show what can be achieved in the support of families and children with clefts.
