Switzerland has seen a significant rise in the number of women surgeons over recent decades, reflecting broader global shifts toward gender balance in medicine. Historically, surgical specialties were male-dominated, but today, Swiss women surgeons are increasingly recognized for their expertise and leadership in diverse surgical fields, from general and trauma surgery to highly specialized areas such as reconstructive and plastic surgery. Swiss institutions like University Hospital Zurich provide rigorous training that empowers these women to excel in their fields, breaking down traditional barriers and inspiring the next generation of female medical professionals. Dr Jennifer Ashley Watson is a testament to this progress.

Born and raised in Switzerland, Dr Jennifer Ashley Watson developed a passion for medicine early on, influenced by her family’s strong medical background. Her father, a dedicated trauma surgeon, brought medicine into daily conversations, inspiring her from a young age. This early exposure motivated her to pursue her own path in medicine, leading her to study at the University of Berne, where she felt an enduring pull towards surgery.

After completing medical school, Jennifer began her residency in general surgery, gaining experience across a spectrum of specialties including visceral, trauma, thoracic, and vascular surgery. Her dedication culminated in her board certification as a general surgeon. However, her ambitions didn’t stop there. She joined the Plastic and Hand Surgery Department at University Hospital Zurich, where she earned an additional Board certification in Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic surgery. Specializing in soft tissue reconstruction and microsurgery, Dr Jennifer now focuses on reconstructive surgery of the head, neck, extremities, thoracic, and abdominal walls, often treating patients affected by trauma or tumors. Her journey reflects the determination, skill, and passion that define Switzerland’s emerging generation of women surgeons.

Let’s dive into this interaction to know more.

Can you share your educational journey and what inspired you to pursue a career in healthcare, specifically in reconstructive and plastic surgery?

From the beginning, I was always drawn to surgery. I’ve always enjoyed working with my hands and taking a precise approach, thereby honing skills that are essential in reconstructive microsurgery. Plastic surgery also appealed to me because it’s a field that requires creativity. Each patient is unique, and every reconstruction presents its own challenge. What excites me the most is treating each case as an individual puzzle, constantly seeking the best possible solution tailored to each patient's needs.

Could you walk us through your professional experience as a reconstructive and plastic surgeon and highlight some of the key areas you’ve specialized in?

My main expertise lies in reconstructive microsurgery, with a particular focus on soft tissue reconstruction. Plastic surgery offers a vast range of treatment options, addressing conditions from head to toe, which I find endlessly fascinating. I’ve been fortunate to have mentors like Professor Lindenblatt, Professor Kim and Professor Giovanoli, who supported my journey, providing opportunities that allowed me to grow and develop in this field.

"For me, success as a leader centers on a 'patient-first' approach, always prioritizing empathy & precision in every case."

Could you introduce us to University Hospital Zurich and share more about the types of conditions you treat and procedures you perform?

Our Department of Plastic and Hand Surgery at University Hospital Zurich is among the largest and most advanced in Europe. We handle a wide range of cases, from standard procedures like breast reduction to severe burn treatments and complex free tissue reconstructions for patients with injuries across the body, including specialized hand surgery. My focus is always on finding the most effective treatment for each patient. I specialize in reconstructions of the head, neck, extremities, thoracic and abdominal walls, and also perform vascularized lymphatic tissue transfers for lymphedema. Additionally, I conduct common procedures such as breast reductions and abdominoplasties.

What are your primary focus areas in terms of ensuring positive outcomes for patients?

My primary focus is to approach each patient and case as entirely unique. I prioritize building a thorough understanding of each patient’s specific needs and concerns, taking the time to accurately assess their condition and expectations. This patient-centered approach helps me tailor treatment plans that align with each individual’s goals, ensuring the best possible outcomes. By listening closely to patients and respecting their wishes, I strive to create personalized solutions that not only address their medical needs but also support their overall well-being.

What do you consider the biggest ‘wins’ in your professional journey so far? What would you say is your ‘success mantra’ as a leader?

The greatest achievement in my professional journey has been the opportunity to pursue what I am most passionate about, which is reconstructive and microsurgery. Doing work that I genuinely love, while continually developing my expertise in this field, has been incredibly fulfilling. Equally rewarding is the ability to make a positive difference in my patients’ lives, helping them find the most suitable treatment options tailored to their unique needs. For me, success as a leader centers on a 'patient-first' approach, always prioritizing empathy and precision in every case. By focusing on individualized care and striving for the best possible outcomes, I aim to ensure that each patient receives not only effective treatment but also compassionate support throughout their journey.

Dr Jennifer Ashley Watson Skilled Reconstructive & Plastic Surgeon, University Hospital Zurich

Dr Jennifer Ashley Watson is a skilled reconstructive and plastic surgeon at University Hospital Zurich. With a board certification in General surgery and board certification in plastic, reconstructive, and plastic surgery, she specializes in reconstructive microsurgery, focusing on complex soft tissue reconstruction for the head, neck, extremities, and torso. Known for her patient-centered approach, Dr Watson is dedicated to tailoring each treatment to individual needs, combining precision and creativity to achieve the best possible outcomes for her patients.