The first independent plastic surgery unit in Iraq was established in 1968 by Prof. Issam
Al-Omari, followed by a second unit in Basra in 1973, founded by Prof. Alaa Basheer. In
2001, the Iraqi Society of Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons (ISRAS) was formed to
unite qualified plastic surgeons, promote scientific collaboration, and improve surgical
practices. ISRAS joined international societies, facilitating global knowledge exchange.
Its mission is to advance reconstructive and aesthetic surgery while preventing
malpractice in the field.
