Sydney. June 22, 2022: The Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) has announced the appointment of specialist plastic surgeon Associate Professor Nicola Dean as its new president; an elected role with a 2-year tenure. Dr Dean is the first female to be elected as President in the 50-year history of ASPS.

Adelaide-based, Dr Dean says she is honoured to take on the role and looks forward to continuing the ASPS’ vital work advocating for the safety of patients and the future of plastic and reconstructive surgery. 

Dr Dean said: “I am delighted to take on the role and continue ASPS’ excellent work supporting high quality specialist plastic surgical care in Australia.

“I am passionate about doing all I can to ensure safe care for patients and access to functional plastic and reconstructive surgery procedures for all who need them. One of ASPS’ highest priorities is helping consumers avoid the adverse outcomes in cosmetic surgery, that too many Australians have experienced from medical practitioners who mis-represent their skills and qualifications by using the title ‘surgeon’, when they have not had the formal surgical training recognised by the Australian Medical Council and carry out cosmetic procedures without proper care and protections from complication.

“Our members are highly trained Specialist Plastic surgeons* who can safely undertake complex procedures to repair, restore or enhance all parts of a patient’s body.  Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery is a broad specialty, encompassing cosmetic surgery, hand surgery, craniofacial surgery, burns, cancer surgery and trauma reconstruction.  ASPS strives to develop and nurture all aspects of the specialty, supporting quality care for the benefit of patients in both public and private sectors.”

Dr Dean has a long-standing interest in access to healthcare and over the last 2 years has been working to improve the services at the Royal Darwin Hospital, where around 70% of plastic surgery patients are indigenous. 

She said: “I believe the communities of the Northern Territory have just as much right to proper high-quality services as anyone else and I am proud of what we have been able to achieve in Darwin”. 

Additionally, Dr Dean has campaigned for many years to improve access for women to have post-mastectomy breast reconstruction and breast reduction surgery, where heavy breasts are causing pain and functional problems.  She is currently working to improve access for those seeking gender affirmation surgery and plans to continue these equity-of-access projects during her term as President.

Read Media Release here

For further information, please contact: Sandra Renowden, Mohr PR on +61 403 823 218

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