Scarred and disfigured, a young man finds himself navigating through life, enduring the constant stares of strangers. His face, now a source of discomfort for others, draws horrified glances as he walks down the street. In an attempt to avoid attracting more unwanted attention, he hangs his head low, trying to shield himself from the reactions.
But now, there is finally a solution for people who have been left disfigured or maimed, whether through accidents, illnesses or birth defects.
This comes as Mediclinic Newcastle proudly welcomes Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon, Dr Cebo Beja to its esteemed team of highly trained medical professionals, offering new hope for those seeking to rebuild their lives.
Dr Beja, who acquired his qualifications from the College of Plastic Surgeons of South Africa and the University of Pretoria during the course of 2023, is set to provide both reconstructive and cosmetic surgery to patients in the region. Chatting about his journey into plastic surgery, Dr Beja explained that many factors influenced his decision to specialise in this field, a process that took him four years to complete.
Prior to Dr Beja embarking on his career as a Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon, he initially qualified as a general practitioner in 2013. “While I didn’t fully understand what plastic surgery entailed at the time, I have always had a love for it, especially around reconstructive work and making things look pleasing. It became a field I had to explore further, and the idea quickly became deeply embedded in my mind,” said Dr Beja, elaborating on his passion for the field.
He added that plastic surgery is a particularly delicate form of surgery compared to other branches of medicine, as surgeons must pay exceptional attention to detail during procedures.
When asked about his main focus as a plastic surgeon, Dr Beja emphasised that he does not limit himself to one area. “I don’t have a particular area of focus, as I perform both reconstructive and cosmetic surgery. Reconstructive surgery deals with big defects, whether from cancer or trauma, where a person has been injured. On the cosmetic side, people often want to improve or enhance a certain part of their body,” he explained, highlighting that he loves both aspects of the profession equally.
Furthermore, Dr Beja is actively engaged in both healthcare sectors, working in the State Health Sector and the Private Health Sector. In the state sector, he primarily performs reconstructive surgeries, addressing severe cases that arise from injury or illness. In the private sector, cosmetic procedures are more common, though he also performs reconstructive surgery for patients in need. “Even though cosmetic surgery is more prevalent in the private sector, I still do a lot of reconstructive work as well. It’s essential to cater to both needs,” he noted.
Currently running practices in both Johannesburg and Pretoria, Dr Beja is excited to extend his services to Newcastle. As part of his commitment to Mediclinic Newcastle, he plans to visit the town once a month, typically arriving on a Wednesday and staying until Friday.
These monthly visits will be scheduled and coordinated between Dr Beja and Mediclinic Newcastle, ensuring patients receive the care they need.
Dr Beja also addressed the common misconceptions that often surround plastic surgery. “The biggest misconception is that people think plastic surgery is done purely out of vanity, and that it’s unnecessary. While reconstructive surgery is often regarded as essential, people overlook the fact that cosmetic surgery can be just as important. Many of these patients have daily functional issues that need to be addressed, even if medical aids don’t cover it,” he pointed out.
He continued to clarify his point with an example. “For instance, women with enlarged breasts can struggle with daily tasks, experiencing immense back and neck pain, and finding it difficult to exercise or lift heavy objects. In such cases, breast reduction surgery is not just about improving appearance, it is about resolving a functional problem,”
The doctor additionally added, “While some people might think these patients simply want to look better, the reality is that procedures like breast reduction can drastically improve a person’s quality of life.” However, Dr Beja also acknowledged that there are patients who, despite appearing fine, still seek cosmetic enhancements. “There are certainly patients who you might look at and think they don’t need any surgery, but they want a part of themselves enhanced. That’s their choice, and we are here to provide that service too,” he said.
Despite these common misconceptions, Dr Beja noted that only 10% of his patients seek cosmetic surgery, while the remaining 90% require reconstructive procedures, highlighting the critical nature of his work in improving lives.
Looking ahead to his work with Mediclinic Newcastle, Dr Beja expressed his enthusiasm about being able to offer his services to the local community. “I am thrilled to be partnering with Mediclinic Newcastle. I will now be coming to Newcastle to provide a service that has not been available here before. What’s especially exciting is that residents will no longer need to travel out of town for their procedures or follow-up consultations,” elaborated Dr Beja.
He also emphasised the convenience and benefits this brings to local patients. “Patients will no longer have to go to Durban or Johannesburg, they can have their surgeries and recovery close to home, near their loved ones,” he added.
Eager to begin his work in Newcastle, Dr Beja explained that it is essential for Newcastillians to know that plastic surgery is now available in town. “We are here to assist, to offer a confidence boost for those who need it. In cosmetic surgery, for instance, it’s important to consider the psychological impact it has. Patients may feel insecure or develop depression because of something they want to change about themselves. We are truly here to help the community,” Dr Beja assured.
As Mediclinic Newcastle and Dr Cebo Beja usher in a new era of medical services for the town, what are your thoughts on this exciting development? Share your welcome messages and comments below.
Comments 2
Well come dr Bajo
How do I get hold of this doctor to schedule an appointment?