The Department of Plastic Surgery at Government Medical College Thiruvananthapuram (GMCT) stands as a cornerstone of reconstructive and aesthetic surgical excellence in Kerala. Established in 1972 as a dedicated super specialty unit, the department has evolved into a premier centre for advanced plastic, reconstructive, and microsurgical interventions. It plays a pivotal role in managing complex trauma, congenital anomalies, burns, and post-oncologic reconstructions. The department’s legacy is rooted in its commitment to restoring form and function, with a strong emphasis on compassionate care and surgical precision. Over the decades, it has nurtured a generation of plastic surgeons through its M.Ch. program, contributing significantly to the development of plastic surgery services across the state and beyond. The department specializes in craniofacial surgery, hand surgery, microsurgery, cleft lip and palate repair, and post-burn reconstruction. It serves as a regional referral center for acute burn care and complex trauma requiring soft tissue coverage. While rooted in reconstructive surgery, the department also offers aesthetic procedures, balancing form with function. The department integrates clinical service with academic rigor, fostering a culture of continuous learning and surgical innovation.
The Burns Unit at Government Medical College, Thiruvananthapuram has recently become a major hub for advanced burn care in Kerala, especially with the establishment of the state’s first skin bank in 2025. This facility is transforming treatment outcomes for patients with severe burn injuries. It has 7 bedded ICU with isolation rooms, 3 stepdown beds and burns OT.Government medical college, Trivandrum is selected as the centre of excellence under the government of India’s programme on Prevention and Management of Trauma and Burn injuries.