Plastic Surgery

What reasons were there for the development of plastic surgery in the First World War?

Some soldiers suffered horrific, disfiguring facial wounds. They often suffered psychological problems as a result of their appearance.

What treatment was available to disfigured soldiers at the start of WW1?

At the beginning of the war, the only solution was a mask made of tin.

Who was responsible for developing plastic surgery in the First World War?

Sir Harold Gillies, an ear, nose and throat surgeon from New Zealand, pioneered several new techniques to improve the appearance of facial wounds.

What techniques did plastic surgeons use in the First World War?

The plastic surgeons of the First World War developed a number of new techniques. These included:

• ❖ Pedicle tubes that were used to keep the blood flowing to skin grafts, to prevent the body from rejecting them.
• ❖ Bone and cartilage were used to make new facial features for soldiers who had suffered facial damage.

Where was plastic surgery developed in the First World War?

Queen's Hospital in Sidcup, Kent, was set up to care for soldiers with facial wounds. It was run by Sir Harold Gillies.

How many soldiers underwent plastic surgery in the First World War?

By the end of the war, over 12,000 patients had undergone plastic surgery.