Neighbor News
A Surgeon’s Guide to the Galaxy: Q&A with Dr. Ujjwal Datta
Dr. Datta is an avid astrophotographer whose unique hobby grounds his work in medicine.
By day, Ujjwal Datta, DPM, is a foot and ankle surgeon with Hackensack Meridian Raritan Bay Medical Center & Old Bridge Medical Center who helps patients stay mobile.
By night, he turns his gaze to the stars. As seen in Hackensack Meridian Health’s “Off the Chart” series,
Q: Dr. Datta, your hobby is quite unique. Why is astrophotography the right outlet for you to destress from your work as a surgeon?
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Dr. Datta: It’s all about perspective. After a day focused on the intricate details of foot and ankle surgery, looking up at the night sky is a powerful reminder of the bigger picture. Capturing images of galaxies that are millions of light-years away requires immense patience and a quiet mind. It’s a meditative process that completely clears my head. The “Off the Chart” series shows how vital it is for physicians to find that mental reset. For me, the silence and beauty of the cosmos brings me back to earth, ready to heal.
Q: How does the practice of astrophotography make you a better surgeon?
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Dr. Datta: Astrophotography is an exercise in patience and meticulousness. A single image can take hours of careful setup and long exposures. You have to be incredibly precise and willing to wait for the perfect moment. This has absolutely honed my patience and attention to detail as a surgeon. Whether I’m planning a complex reconstructive surgery or guiding a patient through a long recovery, the lessons I learn from my hobby—patience, persistence, and a focus on the details—are invaluable.
Q: What can a patient coming to you for foot or ankle care expect from this approach?
Dr. Datta: They can expect a physician who is patient, present, and meticulous. I bring the same calm, focused energy from my nights under the stars into the exam room and the operating room. My goal is to listen carefully to each patient's story, develop a precise treatment plan, and guide them through their healing journey with compassion and dedication. Your health is my universe. If you’re ready to get back on your feet, I encourage you to make an appointment to see me.
To make an appointment with Dr. Datta, call 844-HMH-WELL.
