Dr Shadab Mohammad: A Pioneer in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery in India

India has produced several distinguished medical professionals who have transformed healthcare through clinical excellence, research, and education. Among them, Dr Shadab Mohammad has earned widespread recognition as one of the country’s leading experts in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery. With a career spanning over three decades, he has significantly contributed to patient care, surgical innovation, academic research, and the training of future dental surgeons.

As the Professor and Head of the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery at King George’s Medical University (KGMU), Lucknow, Dr Mohammad has played a pivotal role in advancing the specialty in India. His work ranges from treating complex facial deformities and oral cancers to conducting impactful research on tobacco-related diseases and mentoring hundreds of postgraduate students.

Early Education

Dr Shadab Mohammad built his academic foundation at one of India’s most prestigious medical institutions.

His educational qualifications include:

• Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) from Awadh University, Faizabad (1978)
• Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) from King George’s Medical College, Lucknow (1984)
• Master of Dental Surgery (MDS) in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery from King George’s Medical College (1987)

He also received a prestigious WHO Fellowship in Switzerland, which further enhanced his exposure to advanced international practices in oral and maxillofacial surgery.

A Career Dedicated to King George’s Medical University

One remarkable aspect of Dr Mohammad’s career is his long-standing association with King George’s Medical University (KGMU), Lucknow.

His professional journey reflects consistent academic growth:

• House Officer
• Senior Demonstrator
• Assistant Professor
• Associate Professor
• Professor
• Professor and Head of the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery

In addition to leading the department, he also served as the Dean of the Faculty of Dental Sciences between 2016 and 2019, contributing to academic administration and institutional development.

Expertise in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery

Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery is among the most demanding specialties in dentistry and medicine. It focuses on diagnosing and treating diseases, injuries, and defects involving:

• Face
• Jaw bones
• Mouth
• Teeth
• Neck
• Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ)

Throughout his career, Dr Mohammad has handled thousands of complex surgical procedures involving facial trauma, oral cancers, congenital deformities, TMJ disorders, cysts, tumors, dental implants, and reconstructive surgeries.

His extensive clinical experience has helped improve surgical outcomes for countless patients while also establishing treatment protocols followed by younger surgeons.

Contributions to Medical Research

Apart from clinical practice, Dr Mohammad is an accomplished researcher.

His research interests cover numerous important areas including:

• Oral cancer
• Oral precancerous lesions
• Tobacco-related diseases
• Maxillofacial trauma
• Temporomandibular joint disorders
• Bone grafting techniques
• Dental implants
• Facial reconstruction
• Surgical innovations

One of his major research themes has been understanding the harmful effects of tobacco on oral health. His studies have explored the prevalence of oral precancer, metabolic changes in tobacco users, and molecular mechanisms involved in oral cancer development. These findings have contributed to better awareness and management of tobacco-related diseases in India.

Significant Scientific Publications

Dr Shadab Mohammad has authored and co-authored numerous research papers published in reputed national and international journals.

His publications include work on:

• Oral Submucous Fibrosis
• TMJ ankylosis
• Malignant melanoma
• Thyroid carcinoma involving the mandible
• Tuberculosis of the oral and maxillofacial region
• Impacted third molar surgery
• Bone graft substitutes
• Oroantral defect management
• Platelet-rich growth factors
• Oral pathology

His work has received thousands of citations, reflecting its influence within the scientific community. According to publicly available academic profiles, his research has been cited extensively by researchers around the world.

Leadership in Dental Education

Beyond surgery and research, Dr Mohammad has established himself as an outstanding educator.

Over the years, he has supervised numerous postgraduate students pursuing MDS degrees in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery. Many of his former students now serve as professors, consultants, and researchers across India and abroad.

His emphasis on evidence-based practice, ethical patient care, and continuous learning has helped shape the next generation of oral surgeons.

He has also delivered lectures and keynote addresses at national and international conferences, sharing his expertise with the wider medical fraternity.

Awards and Recognition

Dr Shadab Mohammad’s contributions have earned him multiple awards during his distinguished career.

Some notable recognitions include:

• Best Professor & HOD Award
• Lifetime Achievement Awards from professional organizations
• Best Teacher Award
• UP Ratna Award
• Bharat Gaurav Award
• Excellence Awards in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
• Scroll of Honour for contributions to dental sciences
• Avadhnama Teacher of the Teachers Award

These honours acknowledge his excellence in teaching, research, clinical practice, and public service.

Contribution to Oral Cancer Awareness

India has one of the world’s highest burdens of oral cancer, primarily due to tobacco chewing and smoking.

Recognizing this public health challenge, Dr Mohammad has actively participated in research aimed at understanding the causes, prevention, and management of oral cancer.

His studies on tobacco use, oral precancerous lesions, and genetic factors have contributed to better screening strategies and early diagnosis, both of which are essential for improving survival rates.

Academic Influence

Apart from treating patients and conducting research, Dr Mohammad has remained actively involved in professional organizations, scientific journals, and academic conferences.

His expertise is frequently sought for:

• Scientific peer review
• Editorial responsibilities
• Clinical guidance
• Surgical training workshops
• Continuing dental education programmes

His influence extends beyond his own institution, benefiting the broader dental and medical community.

Legacy

Dr Shadab Mohammad represents the ideal combination of surgeon, teacher, researcher, and academic leader. His decades of service at King George’s Medical University have helped strengthen one of India’s leading centres for dental education and maxillofacial surgery.

His research has expanded knowledge in areas such as oral cancer, maxillofacial reconstruction, TMJ disorders, and tobacco-related diseases, while his commitment to teaching has inspired generations of oral surgeons.

With an enduring focus on patient welfare, scientific excellence, and education, Dr Mohammad continues to be regarded as one of India’s most respected names in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery.

Conclusion

Dr Shadab Mohammad’s professional journey demonstrates how dedication to clinical excellence, research, and education can leave a lasting impact on healthcare. From his early days as a dental student at King George’s Medical College to becoming Professor and Head of one of India’s foremost Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery departments, he has consistently contributed to advancing the field.

His extensive surgical experience, influential research publications, leadership roles, and commitment to mentoring future specialists have established him as a leading figure in Indian dental sciences. As oral healthcare continues to evolve, Dr Shadab Mohammad’s work remains an important source of inspiration for aspiring dental surgeons and researchers alike.