Sit Down For a Q&A With Dr. Beckstead

Building a strong relationship with your surgeon is key to fostering trust, open communication, and a clear understanding of your medical needs. These factors can all contribute to better surgical outcomes. In this one-on-one interview, we sit down with Dr. Todd Beckstead to discuss his journey as a surgeon, what drives his passion for patient care, and why Wyoming Surgical Associates is the right choice for top-quality surgical care in Wyoming.

What is your surgical specialty?

For 30 years, I’ve been practicing general, vascular, and trauma surgery.

What is your background and why did you pursue surgery?

Interestingly, I didn’t have any plans to go to college at all. After high school, I was playing in a rock band and working in the oil field. But after watching several guys get their fingers lopped off, I decided I had better do something different. So, I decided to go to school. I ended up going to the paramedic program and was working as a paramedic. Deciding to go into surgery was because of that. I watched the trauma surgeons take care of these patients that I would bring them, and that’s what made me decide to go to medical school.

Where did you attend medical school and/or fellowship?

I did my undergrad at the University of Utah as well as medical school, and I did my surgical training at Good Sam [Good Samaritan Emergency & Trauma] in Phoenix, AZ.

What’s something you would tell your younger self while in medical school?

What I would tell my younger self when I was in medical school would be the same thing that a trauma surgeon that I knew told me before I started medical school, which was to relax and stay away from those who don’t. Stay positive and stay away from those who aren’t.

What’s one piece of advice you would give a patient preparing for surgery, or a misconception you’d like to clear up about surgery?

One of the most common misconceptions about surgery that I see in the office is that, oftentimes patients are referred here, especially if they’re from out of town, and they arrive with their suitcases and are thinking they’re having surgery at the same time that they’re having their appointment. Most people shouldn’t have surgery from somebody they haven’t met yet.

What do you find most rewarding about being a surgeon?

What I find most rewarding about being a surgeon is that surgeons are immediate gratification kind of people. We take care of problems, and when we take care of the problems, the problems no longer exist. That makes it very rewarding, because it helps the patients right away.

Are there any advanced/innovative surgical techniques or technologies you are currently using or pursuing?

Minimally invasive surgery is big, and we do a lot of that. I don’t personally do robotic surgery, but the rest of my partners in this practice do.

What’s one reason you enjoy living or practicing in Casper?

The reason that I enjoy living and practicing in Casper is because this is home. I grew up in Glenrock. You can take the boy out of Wyoming, but you can’t take Wyoming out of the boy.

What’s a fun fact about you?

A fun fact about me is that I’m still a frustrated rock star just doing this surgery thing until my rock star career kicks off.

What role do surgeons play in the overall health of a community?

The role that surgeons play in the overall health of the community is taking care of those surgical issues that can’t be taken care of by non-surgeon doctors.

Why should patients choose Wyoming Surgical Associates?

Because we’ve been here for a very long time, taking care of the surgical needs of the people of Wyoming.

Dr. Beckstead provides personal care and individualized treatment, so our patients receive high-quality care unique to their specific surgical needs. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Beckstead, please call our office at (307) 577-4220 or request an appointment online.