Dr. Mirko Gilardino is a plastic surgeon and the director of the H.B. Williams Craniofacial and Cleft Surgery Unit at the Montreal Children’s Hospital.

When did it become clear that you wanted to work with children?

I always knew I wanted to work in a surgical specialty. During my studies at McGill, by a fortunate coincidence, I was put into the pediatric plastic surgery unit headed by Dr. Bruce Williams. Being from a family of artists, the artistry of the approach to this type of work really struck home for me. I became passionate about the idea of changing the facial structure, not only for esthetics but also for function. Also, this is where I had the opportunity to deal with families and learn just how rewarding this is.

You studied at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP), renowned for pediatric craniofacial surgery, and almost stayed there. Why did you decide to come back to Montreal?

In both cities, I was given an opportunity to step into some big shoes to take on the work of a great director who was nearing retirement. CHOP is certainly one of the most prestigious hospitals in North America. But the excellence of the team at the Montreal Children’s Hospital, and knowing I could take my knowledge back here to bring the department to the next level, plus the fact that the city really appeals to my European roots, all convinced me to come to the Children’s and I certainly do not regret that decision.

Upon your arrival, you fostered some important changes in regards to work processes. Can you tell us more?

It’s all about making the family’s journey simpler. On a regular basis, neurosurgeons, plastic surgeons, ORL, and other specialities meet to discuss a patient’s case, know the broad picture and map out a plan so that we can reduce visits to the hospital by relaying each other in the operating room. I got to see how this was done at the most state-of-the art level at CHOP. This spares a child from numerous anesthesias. It also allows a parent to stay at work, or take care of another child at home. We bring families peace of mind. Now that I’m a father myself, I understand this even better. This is the extent of care we provide. And this personalized care is what makes families want to give back and pass it on to the next family.

You are one of the doctors at the Children’s who is most sought-after by the media. Is this something you are comfortable with?

It’s certainly not in my own personal interest as I don’t need more work, having also my private practice! The stories of children with craniofacial surgeries have the advantage of putting the spotlight on the Children’s and showing Quebeckers that there is a specialized center right here in their own province. We are a full craniofacial team, we do the most advanced surgeries. There’s no need to go elsewhere. The public needs to know that! We’ve had many rsts and we will continue to do so... I can never be thankful enough for all those donors who help us stay at the forefront of our expertise, be it in my department or anywhere else in the hospital, so allow me to take this opportunity to thank them.