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A Day of Learning: Dr. Boonipat's Suturing Workshop at Texas Tech

On October 25, 2026, a vibrant atmosphere filled the halls of Texas Tech University as Dr. Thanapoom “Mo” Boonipat, a dedicated plastic surgeon and founder of the FacePlus Plastic Surgery Institute, led a hands-on suturing workshop for premed students. Organized by Women in STEM, this event aimed to empower young female scholars pursuing careers in science and medicine through practical experience and mentorship.

A Hands-On Experience for Aspiring Surgeons

During the workshop, participants engaged in practical activities that allowed them to learn the fundamentals of suturing. Using suture pads and surgical instruments, Dr. Boonipat not only demonstrated techniques but also offered personalized coaching, ensuring that each student gained confidence in their skills. This hands-on experience is crucial, as it provides a glimpse into the realities of surgical practice and prepares students for their future endeavors in the medical field.

Dr. Boonipat acknowledged the significance of early exposure to practical skills, saying, "Every surgeon remembers the first time they held a needle driver. Giving premed students that experience early—along with honest answers about the road ahead—can make the path into medicine feel real and reachable. I was glad to spend the afternoon with such motivated students."

Insights into a Medical Career

Aside from the practical suturing skills, the workshop included an open discussion featuring Dr. Boonipat’s journey through medical school and his specialized training in surgery. He shared valuable insights into the challenges and demands of medical education, residency training, and choosing a surgical specialty. His narrative resonated with the students, serving as an inspiration and a reminder that success in medicine is a journey filled with dedication and resilience.

Supporting Women in STEM

The workshop was facilitated by Women in STEM, a student organization at Texas Tech that fosters connections between young women and professionals in fields where they are underrepresented, including surgery. Through events like this, students gain practical exposure to clinical skills while being mentored by experienced practitioners.

Dr. Boonipat commented on the importance of such initiatives: "Organizations like Women in STEM do important work connecting young women with mentors and hands-on experience in fields where they are still underrepresented, including surgery. FacePlus is proud to support that effort here in our own community in Lubbock."

Dr. Boonipat's Background

Dr. Thanapoom Boonipat is a distinguished plastic and craniofacial surgeon whose extensive training includes an integrated plastic surgery residency at the Mayo Clinic, alongside a fellowship in craniofacial, maxillofacial, and facial aesthetics at Chang Gung Memorial Hospital in Taiwan. He pursued his medical education at Dartmouth College after earning his undergraduate degree in biomedical engineering from Johns Hopkins University. In 2024, Dr. Boonipat founded the FacePlus Plastic Surgery Institute in Lubbock, Texas, offering comprehensive cosmetic and reconstructive plastic surgery services.

The FacePlus Commitment

The FacePlus Plastic Surgery Institute is dedicated to providing high-quality cosmetic and reconstructive surgery, serving patients throughout Lubbock and West Texas. By actively participating in educational events like the suturing workshop, Dr. Boonipat and his practice aim to nurture the next generation of surgeons, helping students translate their aspirations into achievable goals.

In a world where the journey to becoming a doctor can often feel overwhelming, initiatives like Dr. Boonipat's suturing workshop reveal the power of mentorship, education, and hands-on experience in shaping future leaders in medicine. As more young women enter these fields, the impact of such programs will undoubtedly continue to pave the way for a diverse and capable workforce in healthcare.