About Dr Varun Harish
Specialist Plastic, Reconstructive & Burns Surgeon in Sydney and the North Shore
Biography
Clinical Practice
Dr Varun Harish is a Specialist Plastic, Reconstructive and Burns Surgeon (Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons - FRACS) caring for patients across Sydney, the North Shore, and surrounding regions. His practice includes skin cancer and melanoma surgery, facial fracture and maxillofacial trauma surgery, burns treatment and scar revision, complex microsurgical reconstruction, and body contouring after massive weight loss.
He holds consultant appointments at Royal North Shore Hospital (in St Leonards) and Liverpool Hospital. He consults at St Leonards, caring for patients across Sydney’s North Shore and surrounding regions including the Northern Beaches, Inner West, and Central Coast.
Professional Leadership
Beyond direct patient care, Dr Harish contributes to the development of the specialty in Australia. He is a Founding Member of the Australian Society of Reconstructive Microsurgery, helping to advance reconstructive surgery at a national level, and serves as the NSW Teaching Coordinator for the Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), where he oversees training and education for future plastic surgeons.
Inspiration
From the start of his medical training, Dr Harish was drawn to the precision and creativity of plastic surgery. It is one of the few specialties that spans the whole body and demands aesthetic judgement. This unique balance of science and artistry inspired him to pursue a career where surgery can restore both function and appearance, and help patients regain function, appearance, and confidence.
Philosophy of Care
Qualifications, Education & Experience
Dr Harish graduated with First Class Honours in Medicine from UNSW, before completing a Master of Surgery and a PhD at the University of Sydney. His research — spanning melanoma surgery and the early management of burns — has been cited in guidelines and helped shape standards of care in Australia and internationally.
He undertook Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery specialty training through the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons, followed by advanced subspecialty training in microsurgery (UK) and burns surgery (New Zealand) — highly competitive programs known as international fellowships. On returning to Sydney, he was appointed Consultant Plastic Surgeon at Royal North Shore and Liverpool Hospitals. He also serves as a Senior Lecturer at the University of Sydney and UNSW, where he mentors training surgeons and supervises postgraduate research students.
Training Pathway Snapshot
- First Class Honours in Medicine (UNSW)
- 10+ years of medical and surgical training
- Completed a Master of Surgery and PhD (at University of Sydney) with research in burns & melanoma
- 5+ years of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery specialist training through the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons
- Undertook international fellowships in Reconstructive Microsurgery (UK) & Burns Surgery (NZ)
Graduated Medicine
(First Class Honours)
Master of Surgery
(Thesis: Melanoma)
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
(Thesis: Burns)
Plastic & Reconstructive
Surgery advanced training
International Fellowships:
Reconstructive Microsurgery
(UK) & Burns (NZ)
Consultant Appointments
Academic Appointments
(Senior Lecturer)
Research & Publications
Dr Harish’s research publications appear in respected journals including Burns, the Australian and New Zealand Journal of Surgery, the Journal of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery, the Journal of Burn Care and Research, and the Australasian Journal of Plastic Surgery. These works cover burns care, scar contracture release, melanoma surgery, reconstructive microsurgery, and wound healing strategies.
Selected Publications
- Karunaratne G, Harish V. AntiXa levels for venous thromboembolism prophylaxis in burn injuries: a systematic review. Burns: Journal of the International Society for Burn Injuries [in press]
- Huang S, Toon C, Harish V. The prognostic significance of lymphovascular invasion in cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma. Australian & New Zealand Journal of Surgery. 2023; 93(11): 2727-2735
- Sritharan T, Haines M ..... Harish V. Temporal trends in burn size estimation and the impact of the NSW Trauma App on estimation accuracy. Burns: Journal of the International Society for Burn Injuries. Burns: Journal of the International Society for Burn Injuries. 2023; 49(6):1403-1411
- Harish V, Jung M, Wijewardena A, et al. Management strategies for perioperative anaemia in the severely burn-injured Jehovah’s Witness patients who decline a blood transfusion. Burns: Journal of the International Society for Burn Injuries. 2023; 49(3):716-729
- Haines M, Sritharan T, ..... Harish, V. The burn injury transfer feedback form: A 16-year Australian statewide review of burn inter-hospital transfer. Burns: Journal of the International Society for Burn Injuries. 2023; 49(4): 961-972
- Soliman B, Sedaghat N, Yuen L, Harish V, French J. Laparoscopic-assisted deep inferior epigastric artery perforator (DIEP) flap in breast reconstruction. Australian & New Zealand Journal of Surgery. 2022; 92(9): 2365-2367
- Wright M, Harish V, Ngo Q. Suprafascial first dorsal metatarsal artery perforator propeller flap. Australasian Journal of Plastic Surgery. 2022; 5(2): 74-76
- Harish V, Aggarwala S, Roberts S, et al. Treatment of partial thickness burns: a prospective, randomised controlled trial comparing BiobraneTM, ActicoatTM, Mepilex® Ag and Aquacel® Ag. Journal of Burn Care & Research. 2021; 42(5): 934-943
- Harish V, Li Z, Maitz PKM. First aid is associated with improved outcomes in large body surface area burn injuries. Burns: Journal of the International Society for Burn Injuries. 2019; 45(8):1743-1748
- Harish V, Liang DK, Merten SL. Superomedial pedicle reduction mammaplasty with and without drains: a comparative analysis. Australasian Journal of Plastic Surgery. 2019;2(1):31-36
- Harish V, Li Z, Maitz PKM. The optimal timing of outpatient Biobrane™ application for superficial and mid dermal partial thickness burns: Evidence for the '12-hour rule'. Burns: Journal of the International Society for Burn Injuries. 2019;45(4):936-941
- Harish V, Tiwari N, Fisher OM, et al. First aid improves clinical outcomes in burn injuries: Evidence from a cohort study of 4918 patients. Burns: Journal of the International Society for Burn Injuries. 2019;45(2):433-439
- Raymond A, Harish V, Merten S. Oztag: high risk for hand injuries? Australian & New Zealand Journal of Surgery. 2016;86(7-8):578-80
- Issler-Fisher AC, McKew G, Fisher OM, Harish V, Gottlieb T, Maitz PK. Risk factors for, and the effect of MRSA colonization on the clinical outcomes of severely burnt patients. Burns: Journal of the International Society for Burn Injuries. 2015;41(6):1212-20
- Harish V, Raymond AP, Maitz PK. Reconstruction of soft tissue necrosis secondary to cryoglobulinaemia. Journal of Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic surgery: JPRAS. 2014;67(8):1151-4
- Harish V, Raymond AP, Issler AC, et al. Accuracy of burn size estimation in patients transferred to adult Burn Units in Sydney, Australia: an audit of 698 patients. Burns: Journal of the International Society for Burn Injuries. 2015;41(1):91-9
- Harish V, Raymond AP, Issler AC, Lajevardi SS, Chang LY, Maitz PK, et al. Burn surface area calculation instead of burn size estimation: our opinion. Burns: Journal of the International Society for Burn Injuries. 2014;40(8):1814
- Harish V, O'Neill SP, Clarke F. Breast necrosis following left internal mammary harvest for coronary artery bypass. Journal of Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic surgery: JPRAS. 2014;67(3):e95-6
- Harish V, Maitz PK. Uninterrupted continuous negative pressure wound therapy is safe and can facilitate engraftment of dermal regeneration templates. Journal of Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic surgery: JPRAS. 2014;67(7):1011-3
- Harish V, Benger RS. Origins of lacrimal surgery, and evolution of dacryocystorhinostomy to the present. Clinical & Experimental Ophthalmology. 2014;42(3):284-7
- Harish V, Clarke F. Isolated cutis verticis gyrata of the glabella and nasal bridge: a case report and review of the literature. Journal of Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic surgery: JPRAS. 2013;66(10):1421-3
- Harish V, Bond JS, Scolyer RA, Haydu LE, Saw RP, Quinn MJ, et al. Margins of excision and prognostic factors for cutaneous eyelid melanomas. Journal of Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic surgery: JPRAS. 2013;66(8):1066-73
View Dr Harish’s full publication list here.
By combining academic achievement with clinical care, he delivers evidence-based treatments in:
- Burns surgery and scar management including scar revision
- Skin cancer and melanoma surgery
- Microsurgical reconstruction after trauma and cancer
- Body contouring following massive weight loss including tummy tuck surgery (abdominoplasty)
- Facial fracture repair and maxillofacial trauma surgery
Hospital Affiliations
Working across leading Sydney institutions allows Dr Harish to deliver advanced reconstructive and aesthetic care in settings equipped for high standards of safety and care.
In the public sector, he serves as a Consultant Plastic Surgeon at:
- Royal North Shore Hospital, St Leonards
- Liverpool Hospital, Liverpool
In the private sector, he is affiliated with:
- Mater Hospital, North Sydney
- North Shore Private Hospital, St Leonards
- Hunters Hill Private Hospital, Hunters Hill
- Consulting rooms in St Leonards
Both are major trauma centres where Dr Harish manages complex injuries, including facial fractures and severe burns.
These affiliations ensure patients across Sydney, North Shore, Northern Beaches, Inner West, Central Coast have access to care in hospitals renowned for their surgical standards, safety, and comprehensive support services.
Academic Leadership
| Associate Editor | Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery journal |
| Reviewer | Burns journal |
| NSW Teaching Coordinator | Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) |
| Founding Member | Australian Society of Reconstructive Microsurgery (ASRM) |
Beyond his role as an author, Dr Harish was appointed Associate Editor of Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, the premier global journal of the specialty — recognition of his academic leadership and contribution to advancing international surgical standards.
Dr Harish also holds an editorial appointment with the journal Burns and regularly reviews scientific manuscripts for international journals. His leadership extends to education and professional societies — he is the NSW Teaching Coordinator for the Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), guiding the education of training surgeons across New South Wales. He is also a Founding Member of the Australian Society of Reconstructive Microsurgery, a role that reflects his contribution to reconstructive surgery at a national level.
Procedures at a Glance
Skin Cancer & Melanoma Surgery in Sydney
Skin Cancer & Melanoma Surgery in Sydney| Procedures | Removal of skin cancers (basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, melanoma) with reconstruction when required |
| Recovery | Most patients return to routine activity within 1–2 weeks; scars mature slowly |
| Medicare | Rebates usually apply for skin cancer surgery |
Skin cancer is one of the most common conditions treated by Dr Harish. He performs everything from straightforward excisions to complex skin cancer removal requiring reconstruction. His Master of Surgery thesis focused on how much tissue needs to be safely removed around melanoma to reduce the risk of recurrence (known as excision margins). He also published a landmark eyelid melanoma article referenced by Australian national guidelines — ensuring his approach is safe, evidence-based, and cosmetically sensitive.
Book your skin cancer consultation at our St Leonards clinic on Sydney’s North Shore with a reconstructive plastic surgeon specialising in skin cancer surgery.
Mini FAQ — Skin Cancer Surgery
How much does skin cancer surgery cost in Sydney?
Costs depend on lesion size, location, and whether reconstruction is required. Medicare and private health insurance can provide rebates.
Who performs skin cancer and melanoma surgery in Sydney?
Skin cancer and melanoma surgery is performed by FRACS-qualified plastic surgeons like Dr Harish, who combine cancer clearance with reconstructive expertise.
What is recovery like after melanoma surgery in Sydney?
Recovery varies with procedure type. Most patients return to normal activity within 1–2 weeks, though scar healing and follow-up are important for optimal results.
Burns Surgery & Scar Revision in Sydney
Burns Surgery & Scar Revision in Sydney| Procedures | Surgical scar revision and non-surgical scar treatments (e.g., steroid injections, microneedling, dermabrasion). C-section scar revision for women with troublesome caesarean scars |
| Recovery | Recovery varies depending on scar size and complexity; scars remodel for months |
| Medicare | Rebates often apply for surgical scar revision |
Scars from burns, trauma, or previous operations can cause both functional restriction and cosmetic concern. This includes C-section scar revision for women with troublesome caesarean section scars, as well as contracture release for patients with restricted movement. Scars can also be thick, raised, and itchy, taking on common forms such as hypertrophic or keloid scars.
Surgical scar revision may involve repositioning the scar (Z-plasty), moving nearby skin (local flap), or skin grafting. In other cases, non-surgical options can improve scars. With a PhD in burns research and international scar management training, Dr Harish uses the latest evidence-based approaches to help patients improve both function and appearance.
Arrange a scar revision consultation at our Sydney North Shore clinic in St Leonards.
Mini FAQ — Burns & Scar Revision
How long is recovery after burns or scar revision surgery in Sydney?
Recovery depends on the extent of injury and type of procedure. Most patients return to routine activity within weeks, though full scar remodelling may take months.
Does Medicare or private health insurance cover scar revision surgery in Sydney?
Yes — scar revision surgery is often covered when it is performed to improve function or treat painful contractures.
How much does scar revision surgery cost in Sydney?
Costs depend on scar size, complexity, and hospital fees. A detailed quote is provided at consultation.
How much does excess skin removal or tummy tuck surgery cost in Sydney?
Costs vary depending on the areas treated, complexity of surgery, and hospital fees. A personalised estimate is provided during consultation.
Broken Jaw, Cheekbone, Eye Socket & Nose Surgery in Sydney
Broken Jaw, Cheekbone, Eye Socket & Nose Surgery in Sydney| Procedures | Surgery for broken jaw (mandible), broken cheekbone (zygomatic fracture), broken eye socket (orbital fracture), and broken nose (nasal fracture) |
| Recovery | Most facial fractures heal in 6–8 weeks, depending on the injury |
| Medicare | Rebates apply for facial fracture and maxillofacial trauma surgery |
Injuries to the jaw, cheekbone, eye socket, or nose can affect eating, breathing, vision, and appearance. As a Consultant Plastic Surgeon at Royal North Shore and Liverpool Hospitals — two of Sydney’s busiest trauma centres — Dr Harish routinely manages these complex cases after accidents, sports injuries, and other trauma.
Treatment often involves small plates and screws to stabilise fractures, aiming to restore function first while also achieving a natural, balanced appearance.
Dr Harish has also published in the Australasian Journal of Plastic Surgery on the use of intraoperative CT scans in maxillofacial trauma surgery, highlighting his role in advancing best practice in trauma surgery.
Book Your Facial Trauma Consultation — available at Sydney’s North Shore rooms.
Mini FAQ — Facial Trauma
How long does recovery take after broken jaw surgery in Sydney?
Most broken jaws heal in 6–8 weeks, though temporary dietary adjustments and follow-up care are essential.
Where can I get surgery for a broken cheekbone or broken eye socket in Sydney?
Surgery for broken cheekbones and eye sockets is performed by plastic and reconstructive surgeons like Dr Harish at both public and private hospitals.
Body Contouring & Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) in Sydney
Body Contouring & Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) in Sydney| Procedures | Tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) with rectus diastasis (muscle) repair, and 360° body lift (belt lipectomy) after weight loss or pregnancy |
| Recovery | Light activity from 2–3 weeks; full recovery takes several months |
| Medicare | Item 30175 may apply for post-pregnancy tummy tuck with muscle repair; item 30179 may apply for body lift after weight loss |
Pregnancy and/or significant weight loss (through lifestyle changes, bariatric surgery such as gastric bypass or sleeve gastrectomy, or newer weight-loss medications such as Ozempic or Wegovy), often leaves patients with excess skin. This can cause discomfort, rashes, and difficulty with clothing or exercise.
A tummy tuck focuses on the front of the abdomen, removing excess skin and repairing separated abdominal muscles (rectus diastasis repair) to restore core function and contour. A body lift extends around the lower body, addressing the flanks, back, buttocks and thighs for more comprehensive reshaping.
Book Your Consultation — available at Sydney’s North Shore rooms.
Mini FAQ — Body Contouring & Tummy Tuck
How much does excess skin removal or tummy tuck surgery cost in Sydney?
Costs vary depending on the areas treated, complexity of surgery, and hospital fees. A personalised estimate is provided during consultation.
How long is recovery after a body lift or tummy tuck in Sydney?
Most patients return to light activity in 2–3 weeks. Full recovery, including final contour and scar healing, may take several months.
Does Medicare cover excess skin removal or tummy tuck surgery in Sydney?
Medicare and private health insurance may contribute to costs provided strict criteria are met. Eligibility for post-pregnancy tummy tuck surgery (Medicare item 30175) may apply if functional symptoms are present and scans confirm a muscle separation (rectus diastasis) of at least 3 cm. For body lift (belt lipectomy) surgery after weight loss (Medicare item 30179), eligibility requires:
- Stable weight maintained for at least 6 months.
- Documented functional problems such as rashes or infections.
- Failure of non‑surgical management for at least 3 months.
Breast Reduction Surgery in Sydney
Breast Reduction Surgery in Sydney| Procedures | Breast reduction to relieve pain, rashes, posture or clothing difficulties, and improve overall comfort |
| Recovery | 2–3 weeks before return to work or study; swelling and scars continue to settle over months |
| Medicare | Item 45523 may apply if strict criteria are met (such as physical symptoms including pain, rashes, or functional limitation) |
Breast reduction surgery (reduction mammoplasty) is a procedure that reduces breast size by removing excess tissue and skin, aiming to improve comfort, mobility, and posture. Many women also find it easier to participate in exercise and day-to-day activities after surgery.
Dr Harish’s research in the Australasian Journal of Plastic Surgery on breast reduction techniques reflects his focus on safe, evidence-based care that improves both comfort and mobility.
Book your breast reduction consultation at our St Leonards clinic on Sydney’s North Shore.
Mini FAQ — Breast Reduction
What’s the difference between a breast lift and breast reduction?
A breast lift reshapes and elevates the breasts without reducing much volume. A reduction removes tissue to decrease size and weight while lifting the breast. Reductions nearly always include a lift component.
How long until I see final results?
Breasts appear smaller immediately, but swelling settles over months. Final results are usually seen at 6–12 months.
Lower Limb Reconstruction & Limb Salvage in Sydney
Lower Limb Reconstruction & Limb Salvage in Sydney| Procedures | Reconstruction and limb salvage surgery for open fractures, bone infection (osteomyelitis), and implant or joint-replacement wound complications |
| Recovery | Varies widely; staged surgeries and physiotherapy often required over several months |
| Medicare | Rebates generally apply for these reconstructive procedures |
Severe leg injuries or infections that expose bone or implants can sometimes put the limb at risk of amputation. When bone, tendons or implants are exposed and wounds fail to heal, reconstructive (limb salvage) surgery can help preserve the leg and restore function.
Dr Harish manages complex lower-limb reconstruction referrals from across Sydney, including the North Shore, Northern Beaches, Inner West and Central Coast. Surgery is tailored to each patient’s needs and may involve skin grafts or microsurgical flaps to provide coverage of wounds, protect bone or implants, and reduce infection risk. In some circumstances amputation may be the safest or most functional outcome. These decisions are made collaboratively with orthopaedic and rehabilitation teams.
Book a Consultation — available at St Leonards on Sydney’s North Shore.
When is lower-limb reconstruction needed?
When fractures, infection, or wound healing issues expose bone, tendons or implants, reconstruction can help restore healthy tissue cover and avoid amputation.
What types of reconstruction are used?
Techniques include local flaps (using nearby tissue) and microsurgical free flaps (transplanted tissue from elsewhere with its own blood supply). The choice depends on wound size, location and blood flow.
How long does recovery take?
Recovery is highly variable; many patients require staged operations and physiotherapy over several months.
Is amputation ever a better option?
Sometimes — when infection control or healing potential is limited, amputation can provide a safer, faster, and more functional long-term result.
Why Patients Choose Dr Harish
Specialist Training & Qualifications
- FRACS-qualified Specialist Plastic, Reconstructive & Burns Surgeon
- First Class Honours (UNSW), Master of Surgery, and PhD on burns and melanoma research (University of Sydney)
- Advanced subspecialty training in microsurgery (UK) and burns surgery (New Zealand)
Clinical & Academic Roles
- Consultant Plastic Surgeon at Royal North Shore and Liverpool Hospitals, as well as several North Shore Private Hospitals
- Senior Lecturer at the University of Sydney and UNSW
- NSW Teaching Coordinator for the Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS)
- Founding Member of the Australian Society of Reconstructive Microsurgery
- Associate Editor of Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery journal
Research & Publications
- Author of peer-reviewed, guideline-cited research in PRS, AJOPS, Burns, JPRAS
- Regular reviewer for leading international journals, including Burns
Patient-Centred Care
- Clear communication and realistic expectations at every stage
- Focus on safety, restoration of function, and natural results
- Ongoing support and follow-up to optimise long-term outcomes
Patients Across Sydney & Beyond
Dr Harish cares for patients across Sydney’s North Shore, Northern Beaches, Inner West, North West, and the Central Coast.
Book a Consultation
If you are considering skin cancer removal and reconstruction, burn scar contracture release, scar revision surgery, broken jaw, cheekbone, eye socket, or nose surgery, breast reduction surgery, or body contouring after massive weight loss including tummy tuck surgery in Sydney, arrange a consultation with Dr Harish.
