Textbook of Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery Ucl Press (2016)

Plastic and reconstructive surgery is a branch of surgery that specialises in restoring form and function to damaged or missing tissues and skin. The causes of such defects are usually related to surgery, injury, illness or congenital abnormality. This rapidly evolving specialty is based upon the exploitation of key principles of anatomy, physiology, pathology and surgery. Mastery of these principles as well as the acquisition of sound surgical technique enables plastic surgeons to constantly adapt to the wide variety of individual cases they face and provide functional and aesthetic solutions.

This book traces the career of pioneering South African plastic and reconstructive surgeon, Jack Penn, from its beginnings during the Second World War. It explores the establishment of Penn’s private practice, and his work in diverse countries, including Gabon, Japan and Israel, as he sought to rectify the injury caused by conflict. It also addresses his role on the President’s Council, established by Prime Minister P.W. Botha to introduce reform to the system of apartheid.