As a reconstructive, craniofacial and cosmetic consultant surgeon for the past 18 years, my principal work is with the Birmingham Children's and Queen Elizabeth hospitals and the Westbourne Centre, a private medical centre in Edgbaston. Annually, I travel to Ethiopia to provide surgical care for patients with several facial deformities.
Some of the children and adults in my care have congenital anomalies; others have experienced trauma or need previous interventions corrected. Still others are seeking a change to their appearance or a correction of a particular aspect that causes anxiety or self-consciousness. I regard all this as part of the same spectrum of healthcare delivery.
Whil...