From BJPS to JPRAS
In 2006 the British Journal of Plastic Surgery (BJPS) became JPRAS, the Journal of Reconstructive, Plastic and Aesthetic Surgery.
Its revised focus was summarised in the subtitle “An International Journal of Surgical Reconstruction” and spelt out by its aim to be “dedicated to publishing original research, educational material and information in all aspects of plastic and reconstructive surgery including the surgery of appearance, and to promoting good practice in these disciplines.”
Simon Kay, a plastic surgeon of immense experience in hand surgery, particularly of children, and later BAPRAS President, had recently been appointed the new Editor. His typically “think outside the box”, visionary approach to reformation and modernisation of the Journal expanded its horizons, increasing inclusivity of reconstructive enterprise and fit for purpose in a new Millennium. His aims were to “widen its appeal, to increase the quality and to expand the content”. It was also felt wise to broaden the readership by dispensing with the original title’s parochial “British”. Controversially, it included “Aesthetic” as a means to ensuring this was seen as a core element within specifically plastic surgery.
Navigating a tricky political landscape comprising forces for the status quo and with the support of Council, the Journal was effectively “re-booted”. This came with implications, particularly a loss of the existing “impact factor”, so important to all scientific periodicals. At the same time, the Journal’s processes and turn-around times were made more efficient by rendering the office “paperless”. All this took place at a time when BAPS was itself updating its brand to become BAPRAS.
The first edition of JPRAS appeared in January 2006 as volume 59 of the Association’s journal. It remains the official journal of BAPRAS, and now the European Association of Plastic Surgeons.
Click on the image below to see how the journal has changed its appearance since 1948.