Harold Gillies

Harold Gillies

Harold Gillies (17 June 1882 – 10 September 1960) was a pioneering New Zealand-born plastic surgeon who is widely considered the father of modern plastic surgery. He is best known for his innovative work in reconstructive surgery during and after World War I.

Early Life and Education

Harold Delf Gillies was born in Dunedin, New Zealand, and later moved to England for his education. He attended Wanganui Collegiate School and later studied medicine at Gonville and Caius College, Cambridge. After completing his medical degree, he trained as a surgeon at St Bartholomew's Hospital in London.

World War I Contributions

During World War I, Gillies joined the Royal Army Medical Corps and was posted to the Western Front. He was deeply moved by the severe facial injuries suffered by soldiers and recognized the need for specialized surgical techniques to address these injuries. In 1917, he established a dedicated plastic surgery unit at the Queen's Hospital in Sidcup, Kent, which became the world's first hospital dedicated to plastic surgery.

Gillies developed numerous innovative techniques for facial reconstruction, including the use of tubed pedicle flaps, which significantly improved the outcomes for patients with severe facial injuries. His work laid the foundation for modern reconstructive surgery and greatly advanced the field of plastic surgery.

Post-War Career

After the war, Gillies continued to advance the field of plastic surgery. He published several influential texts, including "Plastic Surgery of the Face" in 1920, which became a seminal work in the field. He also trained many surgeons from around the world, spreading his techniques and knowledge globally.

During World War II, Gillies once again played a crucial role in treating injured soldiers. He worked at Rooksdown House, part of Park Prewett Hospital in Basingstoke, where he continued to innovate and refine his surgical techniques.

Legacy

Harold Gillies' contributions to plastic surgery have had a lasting impact on the field. He is remembered as a compassionate and skilled surgeon who transformed the lives of countless patients. His pioneering work laid the groundwork for modern reconstructive surgery and has influenced generations of surgeons.

Personal Life

Gillies was married to Kathleen Margaret Jackson, and they had four children. He was also an accomplished golfer and enjoyed painting in his spare time.

See Also

• Plastic surgery
• Reconstructive surgery
• World War I
• Royal Army Medical Corps
• Queen's Hospital, Sidcup