Dr Peter Honey completed his medical degree at the University of Western Australia and qualified as an orthopaedic surgeon in 1989. He commenced working in private practice in 1991 after undertaking fellowships in hand and microsurgery and shoulder and sports surgery at the University of South Florida and Harvard University in America.
We spoke to Dr Honey about his work, what he loves about his job and what orthopaedic surgery can offer people.
What attracted you to orthopaedic surgery?
I liked the idea of orthopaedic surgery compared to other areas of medicine as it enables, in a very practical way, the restoration of physical function with respect to return to sport, return to work or extension of the duration of physical independence.
What are your areas of special interest?
My main areas of practice are upper limb surgery and knee surgery.
What is your point of difference as an orthopaedic surgeon?
I treat patients of all ages in my area of interest, so can provide a continuity of service from cradle to grave. I try to see and treat people quickly so the time away from work and family responsibilities is as short as possible.
What has been your biggest patient success?
Over the years there have been many rewarding moments, with people being able to return to a high level of function following devastating injury. However, one patient who I do specifically remember is a little girl who had a tendon transfer for shoulder weakness following Erb's palsy. Her parents wept tears of joy as they related how she was able to play on the monkey bars and go on the flying fox with her cousins at the annual post- Christmas family get together, having previously been restricted to the sidelines.
What piece of advice do you share with your patients?
If there is any point to life, it is that it should be enjoyed. The happier and more functional you are, the better life is for those around you.
To book an appointment with Dr Honey or to view a list of our other orthpaedic surgeons at St John of God Subiaco Hospital, use our Find a specialist search.