When considering plastic surgery, expertise and experience are crucial—but so is passion. Dr Mark Hanikeri, a highly respected plastic and reconstructive surgeon based in Perth, Western Australia, brings a combination of artistry, technical skill, and deep compassion to his work. His journey into the field of plastic surgery is as inspiring as the support he offers to his patients. From an initial career in engineering to becoming a skilled plastic surgeon, Dr Hanikeri’s story is one of dedication, adaptability, and an unwavering commitment to helping individuals.
A Unique Path to Plastic Surgery
Dr Hanikeri’s path to medicine was anything but conventional. Initially, he pursued an engineering degree at the University of Western Australia, but within six months, he realised it wasn’t the right fit for him. “It didn’t suit my personality from day one,” he recalls. A moment of serendipity changed everything—while taking a study break, he watched a documentary featuring doctors performing facial reconstructive surgeries on children overseas. “It was creative, artistic, and scientific—it just clicked,” he says.
That realisation led him to withdraw from his engineering studies, but his transition to medicine wasn’t immediate. Due to enrolment rules, he had to complete a year of commerce before finally being accepted into medical school. This experience, though challenging, solidified his resolve and gave him a unique appreciation for the perseverance required to pursue his passion.
Building a Career in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
After completing his medical degree at the University of Western Australia, Dr Hanikeri embarked on a rigorous journey of postgraduate training in both Australia and Scotland. He undertook advanced surgical training through the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons, completing fellowships in prestigious hospitals, including Royal Perth Hospital, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, and Princess Alexandra Hospital.
His international experience took him to the United Kingdom, where he specialised in craniofacial and cosmetic surgery at well-known institutions like Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, Great Ormond Street Hospital, and King Edward VII Hospital in London. These experiences refined his technical skills and exposed him to advanced techniques in reconstructive surgery, particularly in craniofacial conditions and cosmetic procedures.
Supporting Patients Through Surgery
For Dr Hanikeri, plastic surgery extends beyond aesthetics. ‘I just love making a positive impact on patients,’ he shares. Whether performing reconstructive procedures or assisting patients in their surgical journey, his focus remains on delivering attentive and professional care.
One of the key aspects of his work is body contouring for patients who have experienced significant weight changes. “Many patients come in and say, ‘I just want this addressed,’ pointing to a particular area,” he explains. “But plastic surgery isn’t about isolated treatments—it’s about understanding how changes in one area affect the entire body.” His expertise lies in guiding patients through this process, ensuring they understand how each procedure may affect the overall outcome.
His work in cleft lip and palate surgery, through charitable medical missions, holds a special place in his heart. He recalls a young boy from the Philippines who, due to his cleft lip, was not allowed to attend school because he frightened the other children. “After his surgery, he was able to finish high school, get into university, and eventually study to become a doctor,” Dr Hanikeri recalls. “You can’t put a price on that.”
Ethics and Integrity in the Digital Age
In today’s world, where social media often portrays plastic surgery through filtered snapshots, Dr Hanikeri takes a different approach. “Some surgeons post operative photos of perfect-looking results, but that’s not what patients need to see,” he explains. Instead, he emphasises realistic expectations, ensuring that patients understand how their results may change over time. This ethical stance stems from his belief that plastic surgery is a considered decision that should focus on long-term well-being rather than immediate changes.
Professional Leadership and Commitment to Excellence
Dr Hanikeri is a leader in his field, holding several key professional roles. He is a Director of the Western Australian Plastic Surgery Centre and the Clinical Director of the Western Australia Kirkbride Melanoma Advisory Service. His hospital accreditations include St John of God Hospital, West Leederville Private Hospital, Bethesda Hospital, and Albany Regional Hospital, among others.
His professional memberships include:
- The International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (ISAPS)
- The Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS)
- The Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (RACS)
- The Australasian Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (ASAPS)
These affiliations underscore his commitment to maintaining high standards in patient care and surgical practice.
A Surgeon with Heart
Beyond his qualifications, Dr Hanikeri is known for his dedicated approach to patient care and his commitment to his field. Whether assisting individuals following weight fluctuations, supporting their post-surgical journey, or providing reconstructive procedures, he approaches each case with the same level of precision and professionalism that has defined his career.
For those seeking a plastic surgeon who combines expertise with compassion and integrity, Dr Mark Hanikeri is a name that stands out—not just in Perth, but internationally. His journey from engineering student to respected plastic surgeon is a testament to the power of following one’s passion and the dedicated care he offers to his patients.
