Dr Michael Symes
FOOT & ANKLE SURGEON
One Step Ahead
Dr Michael Symes is an Orthopaedic Surgeon with a subspecialty interest in foot and ankle surgery as well as complex lower limb trauma. Dr Symes completed his general Orthopaedic training in NSW, before undertaking subspecialty training in Canada, the USA and Australia where he learnt advanced techniques in foot and ankle surgery including total ankle replacements, minimally invasive foot and ankle surgery, and reconstruction after complex lower limb trauma. He has also completed subspecialty training in deformity correction and reconstruction for neuromuscular and spasticity related disorders.
Dr Symes training and background has led him to understand the importance of multidisciplinary, collaborative approach to the care of his patients. He prides himself on his strong communication style and commitment to his patients.
He is also actively involved in clinical research and teaching, having completed his Masters of Public Health. He is currently a conjoint senior lecturer with UNSW (University of New South Wales). He is internationally recognised with numerous articles published to his name, and many presentations to his peers focussed on the foot and ankle subspecialty. He maintains professional memberships both in Australia as well as in the United States and Canada.
Aside from operating in public and private hospitals, Dr Symes is married with a young family, and keeps active playing golf and cycling.
Training and qualifications
Prior to studying medicine, Dr Symes worked as a physiotherapist, graduating from The University of Sydney where he was awarded The University Medal. He studied medicine at The University of Sydney where he graduated with Honours. He has also completed a masters of public health during his orthopaedic training.
Dr Symes trained in Orthopaedic Surgery through the The Royal Australasian College of Surgeons and The Australian Orthopaedic Association Northside Advanced Training Program. Throughout this time he rotated across multiple metropolitan and rural hospitals in NSW, but most of his skills were refined at Royal Prince Alfred and Royal North Shore Hospitals.
Dr Symes then undertook sub-specialist training in foot and ankle and trauma surgery in Canada, the USA and Australia. He is one of only a few Australian surgeons that works at multiple level 1 teaching and trauma hospitals.
CURRENT APPOINTMENTS
Conjoint Senior Lecturer
University of NSW
Orthopaedic VMO
Royal North Shore/Ryde Hospital
Orthopaedic VMO
St George/Sutherland Public Hospital
Orthopaedic VMO
St George Private Hospital
Orthopaedic VMO
Royal North Shore Private Hospital
