BAPRAS Marks 80th Anniversary with Travelling Exhibition - Evolution of Tissue Transfer Techniques

As part of its 80th anniversary celebrations, BAPRAS is proud to present a travelling exhibition exploring the remarkable history of reconstructive plastic surgery — and we'd love for you to stop by.

The exhibition, The Evolution of Tissue Transfer Techniques, will be on display at the Museum of the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh, on 25–26 March 2026.
The exhibition offers a fascinating journey through the key developments that have shaped modern reconstructive plastic surgery. From the earliest skin grafting methods to the microvascular revolution of the 1960s and 70s, the exhibit traces the ingenuity and innovation that has defined this specialty.
  

What to Expect

Visitors will have the opportunity to explore a curated display of historic surgical instruments and equipment, each telling its own story about how reconstructive techniques developed over time. The exhibition describes the surgical milestones that made it possible to transfer tissue from one part of the body to another — restoring function, form, and feeling for patients recovering from trauma, tumour, burns, and congenital conditions.

 

A Milestone Year for BAPRAS

BAPRAS was founded in 1946 as the British Association of Plastic Surgeons (BAPS), bringing together the pioneers of the specialty in Britain. Eight decades on, it remains the voice of UK plastic surgery.

This travelling exhibition is one of several events marking the Association's 80th anniversary in 2026, a year that will culminate in the BAPRAS Congress 2026, taking place in Liverpool on 2–4 December.
  

Find Out More

Can't make the dates but want to explore the history of plastic surgery?
Visit our Virtual Museum at baprascollection.co.uk or get in touch at collection@bapras.org.uk.

We hope to see you there.