The Belgian Society for Plastic Surgery was founded in 1955. The five founding members were Dr. M. Coelst, Dr. A. de Coninck, Dr. J. Polus, Dr. A. Fardeau and Dr. C. Steenbruggen. The initiator, Dr. Maurice Coelst, was the first honorary member. The object of the Society was the scientific study of plastic surgery and related specialties and the organisation of congresses and lectures to promote the development of plastic surgery. Initially a small group of just five members, the society has grown into a major organization: the majority of plastic surgeons recognised in Belgium today are members.