Professor Laurence Chait Credits South Africa for Lifetime Achievements

Professor Laurence Chait has expressed gratitude to South Africa for the opportunities that have enabled him to achieve a lifetime of success. Upon accepting the Investec Professional Excellence Award, Chait credited the country for allowing him to make a difference. He emphasized that he believes he could have achieved only half as much had he lived anywhere else in the world. Chait's career in plastic surgery spans over five decades, during which he has made significant contributions.

Chait's work in plastic surgery has had a profound impact, particularly in the area of cleft lip and palate repair. He has developed a straight-line repair technique that has produced some of the best surgical results he has seen. This research has been groundbreaking, and he has operated on hundreds of children born with cleft lips and palates. His work has transformed the lives of these children and their families.

In addition to his medical career, Chait has a passion for sculpture, which has brought him numerous commissions and opportunities to create bronze artworks. His artistic talent has provided a creative outlet and added another dimension to his life. Chait's achievements in both medicine and sculpture demonstrate his dedication and perseverance.

Chait paid tribute to the Netcare and Vodacom foundations for their support of the cleft lip and palate programme at Park Lane Clinic in Johannesburg. Their funding and support have enabled him to make a significant impact on the lives of hundreds of children and their families. He expressed his appreciation for their contributions to his work.

Despite his decades-long career in medicine, Chait has no intention of retiring. He remains active and committed to his work, stating that he can still operate and drive long distances. His dedication to his patients and his craft is evident in his continued enthusiasm and energy.

Chait's speech at the Investec Professional Excellence Award ceremony was marked by his characteristic humour and appreciation for the people who have supported him. He ended his speech by thanking two men who direct traffic at a busy intersection in Parktown, highlighting the often-overlooked contributions of ordinary people.

The recognition of Chait's achievements serves as a testament to the impact one person can have on the lives of others. His work in plastic surgery and sculpture has left a lasting legacy, and his gratitude to South Africa for the opportunities he has had underscores the importance of appreciating the country that has enabled him to make a difference.

Key points

• Professor Laurence Chait received the Investec Professional Excellence Award.
• Chait has developed a groundbreaking straight-line repair technique for cleft lips and palates.
• He has no intention of retiring despite his decades-long career in medicine.