News

Faces of Ramsay - Dr Anitha Karunairajah

Mar 07, 2024

Breast surgeon Dr Anitha Karunairajah’s message this International Women’s Day is that every woman has the power to inspire positive change, ignite transformation, and leave a lasting legacy of inclusion and empowerment for generations to come.

Dr Karunairajah recently joined Joondalup Health Campus to provide more patients in the northern suburbs access to breast surgery closer to home. She said she was inspired to pursue a medical career by a combination of family influence, exposure to the medical field, and a genuine passion for surgery.

“I found myself drawn to intricacies of anatomy, the challenge of problem-solving in the operating room, and the ability to make a tangible difference in patients' lives and their well-being,” Dr Karunairajah said.

Dr Karunairajah completed her medical degree in Scotland and surgical training, including a two-year fellowship in breast and oncoplastic surgery, in Australia.

Her role includes diagnosing breast cancer, formulating comprehensive treatment plans tailored to individual patient needs, performing surgical interventions, and collaborating with oncologists and other specialists to coordinate multidisciplinary care.

She also provides reconstructive options including implant-based reconstruction, autologous tissue reconstruction, and oncoplastic techniques; evaluates and manages various benign breast conditions; and performs breast augmentation.

“My vision for my role as a breast and oncoplastic surgeon is rooted in a commitment to excellence, compassion, collaboration, and innovation,” Dr Karunairajah said.

“By embodying these principles and working collaboratively with patients and colleagues, I strive to make a positive impact in the lives of individuals affected by breast cancer and related conditions.”

Dr Karunairajah’s positive impact also extends to junior doctors, with whom she is
actively involved in teaching and training.

Familiar with the challenges of balancing the demands of a surgical career with personal and family responsibilities, she said resilience and determination have helped in overcoming obstacles and advocating for gender equity, and promoting diversity and inclusion in the field of surgery.

“Together, let us rise, thrive, and inspire inclusion in every aspect of our lives and professions. Happy International Women's Day!” Dr Karunairajah said.

In 2023 Ramsay Health Care was recognised as one of the top healthcare companies for female employees globally.