20 Under 40: Dr. Christopher Fanelli

Meet Dr. Christopher Fanelli, 33, surgeon at Interface Centre for Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, and one of our 20 Under 40 Class of 2021 recipients

BORN AND RAISED in the Forest City, Dr. Christopher Fanelli earned his undergraduate degree from Western University and then went on to earn his dental degree at University of Southern California, complete residency training at the University of Miami, and then fellowship training at Harvard Medical School, the Harvard School of Dental Medicine and Massachusetts General Hospital — regarded as some of the finest and most robust academic and training facilities in the world. Returning to his hometown to set up his practice, he is an associate surgeon at Interface Centre for Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery where he continues to innovate novel techniques and new operations to improve outcomes for patients in our community and create surgical centres of excellence that are unique in London and the province.

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What would you call your biggest business achievement, and why?

Joining the team at Interface Centre for Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery. It is an honour and privilege working every day with such an esteemed group of colleagues. It feels great to contribute to this team and bring the expertise that I have obtained from the places that I have trained and worked previously.

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How have the last two years changed you, and your approach to work?

The last two years have been quite transformative and seminal in guiding my current career. The opportunity to train and teach at Harvard Medical School, the Harvard School of Dental Medicine and Massachusetts General Hospital have been highlights of my life thus far. Joining the team at Interface has allowed me to bring my skills and practice to my hometown of London and area.

Knowing what you know now, what advice would you give your younger self?

It sounds cliché, but I always tell others to always believe in yourself. As long as you are providing your best effort every day to improve yourself incrementally, that adds up to wonderful results. Be patient and try to enjoy the journey along the way — Rome wasn’t built in a day.

An old friend is coming to town — where are you taking them to eat?

Probably at Chez Fanelli, since I really enjoy cooking. The city also has so much to offer and many culinary gems. I like David’s Bistro, Dimi’s Greek House, Renato’s and the London Club to name a few.

And finally — guilty ­pleasure?

Anything pasta. Interview by Kieran Delamont