Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon Career in South Africa
Explore the official OFO occupation, common tasks, specialisations and approved South African qualification pathways.
Occupation overview
Diagnoses and surgically treats patients that have abnormal structure of the body caused by congenital defects, development abnormalities, trauma, infection, tumours or disease.
What does a Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon do?
A Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon assesses and surgically treats people whose body structures have been affected by congenital defects, developmental abnormalities, trauma, infection, tumours or disease. The work involves understanding the patient’s condition, planning an appropriate surgical approach and carrying out procedures intended to restore or improve body structure and function.
How to become a Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon in South Africa
- Build a strong foundation in the sciences and communication while at school.
- Explore medical education and surgical training routes that can lead to practice in plastic and reconstructive surgery.
- Consider the Master of Medicine in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (NQF level 9, 180 credits) as a relevant further-study pathway.
- Consider the Fellowship: College of Plastic Surgeons (NQF level 10, 360 credits) as a direct pathway associated with this occupation.
- Confirm current admission, provider, assessment and professional-practice requirements with the relevant university, quality council, professional or official body before applying.
Edupstairs Preparation Guidance
This is a highly specialised surgical career requiring careful patient assessment, precise practical work and sound clinical judgement. The listed qualifications indicate postgraduate pathways relevant to the field, but a qualification mapping alone does not establish that a particular qualification is universally mandatory. Verify the current route and any practice requirements with the relevant official bodies and training providers.
Useful school subjects
- Life Sciences
- Physical Sciences
- Mathematics
- English
Skills that may help
- Manual precision and hand-eye coordination
- Analytical and clinical problem-solving
- Attention to detail
- Clear communication with patients and healthcare teams
- Compassion and professionalism
- Decision-making under pressure
- Commitment to patient safety and careful planning