A Swansea University plastic surgeon has been recognised by the King for his inspiring work in Wales.
Professor Iain Whitaker, Chair of Plastic Surgeon in Swansea University Medical School, recently received an OBE as part of the King’s Birthday Honours.
At the age of 36, Professor Whitaker became the youngest professor of any practice of surgery in the UK to be appointed as a full Professor at Swansea University. Alongside this esteemed position, he became an honours consultant plastic surgeon at the Welsh Centre for Burns and Plastic Surgery at Morriston Hospital.
His achievements continue in 2012 when he became the founding director of The ReconRegen Research centre at Swansea University where he brought together 20 plastic surgeon professionals.
In response to this recognition, Professor Whitaker said: “I am thankful to receive recognition for more than 20 years of work within the speciality of plastic surgery and would like to thank all those involved in my nomination and acknowledge that this is also a reflection of the achievements and contributions of the organisations, communities and individuals that I work with.
“My aim has been to work tirelessly to investigate ways to improve patient care, whilst building a multidisciplinary team and inspiring the brightest and the best surgeons in training to come to Wales and raise the profile of the nation.
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His clinical, research and training work has resulted in success for Professor Whitaker which is reflected in his many awards.
The Swansea University Chair of plastic surgery was the first plastic surgeon to win the Rowan Nick’s Award from the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons, as well as the European Association of Plastic Surgeons Young Plastic Surgeon scholarship to continue his work in Paris.
In his 23 years of practice, Professor Whitaker has made several TV appearances. In 2024 he appeared on Best for Bodies, as well as making features on the BBC, ITV, OK!, Talk TV, The Times and Times Radio.
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