INTRODUCTION

The Department of Plastic Surgery & Reconstructive Sciences, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), Health Campus, Kelantan, Malaysia, has been a leading tertiary referral centre for plastic and reconstructive surgery, particularly on the East Coast of Peninsular Malaysia, since 1997. The Department provides specialised clinical services at Hospital Pakar Universiti Sains Malaysia (HPUSM), including plastic and reconstructive surgery, burn care and surgery and cleft and craniofacial surgery.

Recognised by the Ministry of Health Malaysia for advanced training in plastic surgery, the Department offers a four-year Master of Surgery (Plastic Surgery) programme, as well as research-based Master's and PhD programmes for local and international students. It also provides postdoctoral research opportunities to support the development of emerging researchers.

The Department is actively involved in research and innovation, with key areas including biomaterials, tissue engineering, burn and wound care, reconstructive microsurgery and cleft lip and palate genetics. Its research activities are supported by national and international grants with findings published in scientific journals, conference proceedings and book chapters.

Beyond clinical services and academic activities, the Department is committed to community engagement through public awareness campaigns, health education programmes and professional training. These initiatives focus on burn prevention, first aid, wound management and rehabilitation. The Department also collaborates with healthcare institutions, research centres and non-governmental organisations, including MERCY Malaysia and the Cleft Lip and Palate Association Malaysia (CLAPAM) to support underserved communities.

In line with advancements in healthcare, the Department continues to explore emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, regenerative medicine and translational research to enhance clinical practice, research capabilities and patient outcomes.

Through its integrated approach to clinical excellence, education, research, innovation and community engagement, the Department strives to advance plastic surgery and reconstructive sciences while contributing to improved healthcare services locally and internationally.