A portrait of the South Eastern Trust’s, Consultant Plastic Surgeon, Sandra McAllister, has been unveiled at the Surgeon’s Hall Museum in Edinburgh. Sandra, who was awarded the esteemed Hunter-Doig Medal by the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh (RCSEd) in 2017, has now also been captured in a painting that pays tribute to the significant contributions of women in the surgical profession.
The Hunter-Doig Medal, named after pioneering female surgeons Alice Mabel Headwards Hunter and Caroline Doig, is a highly prestigious accolade. To date, it has been awarded to only nine Surgeons, all of whom, along with the award’s namesakes, are represented in this unique artwork.
Commissioned by the RCSEd, the painting was officially unveiled on 4 April 2025 in Edinburgh as part of the Surgeons’ Hall Museums’ Women in Surgery initiative. This initiative aims to enhance the representation of women within the museum’s collection. Currently, only three out of 144 portraits in the collection depict women and this new artwork marks a significant step forward towards redressing that imbalance.
The artwork, by Kirstin Mackinnon, highlights the exceptional contributions of Hunter-Doig Medal recipients, female Fellows and Members of the College who have demonstrated excellence in the surgical profession.
Expressing her delight at receiving this distinguished award, Sandra McAllister said, “I am truly honoured to receive the Hunter-Doig Medal and to be recognised alongside such inspiring women in surgery. This award not only celebrates individual achievements, but also highlights the vital role women play in shaping the future of the surgical profession.
“Being part of this commissioned artwork is particularly meaningful, as it helps to increase visibility and representation for women in surgery. I hope it inspires future generations of female Surgeons to pursue their ambitions with confidence and determination.”
Congratulating Sandra on this outstanding achievement, the South Eastern Trust’s Director of Surgery, Maggie Parks, added, “Receiving the prestigious Hunter-Doig Medal is recognition of Sandra’s exceptional skill, dedication and leadership in the field of Plastic Surgery.
“It is wonderful to see her contributions recognised as part of this remarkable artwork, which highlights the pivotal role of women in surgery. Sandra’s success is truly inspiring and we are incredibly proud to have her as part of our team.”
