Dr Stephen Wilson is a talented, young surgeon who believes in taking the time to be there for his patients as they journey to full recovery.

The new face at Alberlito Hospital is a plastic and reconstructive surgeon with further fellowship training in facial plastic surgery. He was recently honoured with the prestigious Claus D Walter Award for the highest international score on the 2024 International Board for Certification in Facial Plastic and Recon Surgery (IBCFPRS) examination.

This examination and certification programme represent the highest level that can be achieved by international surgeons, the gold standard in facial plastic surgery certification.

He has a special interest in rhinoplasty – changing the shape of the nose for both health and cosmetic reasons – owing to the many challenges this intricate surgery presents.

“The reasons a patient may opt for rhinoplasty are varied and may include being bullied as a child. The surgery is a delicate one and require both skill and emotional support for the patient,” said Dr Wilson.

His journey to becoming a plastic surgeon began as a medical student at the University of Cape Town where traditional medicine did not excite him. Catching his attention was the blend of creativity, artistry and science of reconstructive surgery.

“Rote learning, huge amounts of information and memorising differential diagnoses and protocols just did not get me excited because there was so little room for creative expression and problem solving. That perspective changed after a short stint in plastic surgery at the Red Cross Children’s Hospital – I was blown away!

“Here was a field of medicine that gave you the tools and knowledge required to creatively solve a myriad of problems in the human body. All other specialty bets were off and I started my trajectory towards plastic and reconstructive surgery from that day forward,” said Dr Wilson.

His path was shaped by rigorous training and inspiring mentors, both locally and internationally. He completed his plastic and reconstructive surgery training at the Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University in Pretoria, alongside earning his master’s degree and board certification as a fellow of the College of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons of South Africa.

Dr Wilson has settled in Ballito with his wife Kim and their two young children. During his down time he enjoys a spirited game of padel.

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