Africa’s First Paediatric and Reconstructive Surgeon!

by Savanna Douglas 1,415 0
Africa's First Paediatric and Reconstructive Surgeon!
Photo Credit: Facebook / Smile Foundation

Dr Ramdhani’s historic qualification will help hundreds of children facing facial conditions, birth differences and severe burns.

 

South Africa (17 July 2026) – South African surgeon Dr Kirthi Ramdhani has made medical history by becoming the first person in Africa to qualify as both a paediatric surgeon and a plastic and reconstructive surgeon!

Paediatric surgeons specialise in operating on babies, children and teenagers, while plastic and reconstructive surgeons focus on restoring form and function after birth conditions, injuries or illness. By qualifying in both fields, Dr Ramdhani brings an exceptionally broad set of skills to the operating theatre, particularly when caring for children with complex conditions.

The Smile Foundation, where Dr Ramdhani is part of the surgical team, celebrated the milestone.

“This extraordinary achievement reflects her dedication to advancing specialised care for children. We are proud to have Dr Ramdhani as part of the Smile Foundation family and look forward to the many lives she will continue to change.” the foundation shared.

The non-profit works alongside South Africa’s public healthcare system to help children living with facial paralysis, cleft lip and palate, craniofacial abnormalities, burns, and a range of ear, nose and hand conditions receive life-changing surgery and ongoing care.

Having a surgeon who specialises in both paediatric surgery and reconstructive surgery means children with complex needs can benefit from a more integrated approach to treatment. It also strengthens the specialist care available through the Smile Foundation’s programmes and supports its mission of giving more children the opportunity to live with confidence and possibility.

Dr Ramdhani’s historic qualification is not only an incredible personal achievement but also an important milestone that will undoubtedly change many young lives in the years ahead.

Sources: Linked above. 
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About the Author

Savanna Douglas is a writer for Good Things Guy.

She brings heart, curiosity, and a deep love for all things local to every story she tells – whether it be about conservation, mental health, or SA's everyday heroes. When she’s not scouting for good things, you’ll likely find her on a game drive, lost in a book, or serenading Babycat – her four-legged son.

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