The Plastic Surgery Institute, located at the Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, is an academic surgical practice that offers specialized medical and surgical care solutions for children and adults in central and southern Illinois, as well as surrounding areas. The institute offers educational, research and scientific publishing solutions. It performs cosmetic, burn, congenital, reconstructive and hand surgeries. The Plastic Surgery Institute provides specialized care programs for the treatment of burns and problem wounds. In addition, the institute offers cosmetic counseling, laser surgery, skin care, and hand and upper extremity rehabilitation solutions. Established in 1973, it assists in restoring appearance and function for patients with defects resulting from trauma.