Tunc Tiryaki Receives Medal of Honour for Outstanding Humanitarian Efforts

Mr Tunc Tiryaki was recently awarded the Medal of Honour & Outstanding Contribution by the Parliamentary Society at the Houses of Parliament. This prestigious award recognizes his exceptional humanitarian work through the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ISAPS), delivering life-changing care to individuals in crisis around the globe.

A Career Rooted in Innovation and Purpose

With a career spanning over 30 years, Mr Tiryaki has earned a reputation as a leader in plastic surgery and regenerative medicine with his pioneering work spanning research, innovation and education.

His breakthroughs in biotechnology, particularly with exosomes, molecules capable of healing tissues and reversing signs of ageing—have shaped the landscape of longevity medicine.

However, Mr Tiryaki’s ambitions go beyond extending life; his focus is on enhancing quality of life. “In every endeavour, my goal is clear: to push the boundaries of medicine to enhance the human experience and advance human health span,” he stated in his acceptance speech at the Houses of Parliament.

While these scientific achievements are remarkable, Mr Tiryaki believes that his most meaningful work lies in humanitarian efforts. His passion for volunteer work began in the aftermath of the 1999 earthquake in Turkey, where he saw the need for urgent surgical care amid chaos. “In these moments, I found my deepest purpose: using my skills where they’re needed most,” he reflected.

Life-Changing Humanitarian Missions

As Chair of ISAPS’ Humanitarian Programs, Mr. Tiryaki has led volunteer missions in countries including Syria, Sudan and Kazakhstan. His work has focused on treating individuals with cleft palates, burns, and other medical conditions that require specialised care. One of the most impactful experiences in his career came during a mission to support women affected by female genital mutilation (FGM).

“Through our efforts, we weren’t just healing physical scars; we were restoring their dignity and sense of self-worth,” Mr Tiryaki explains His humanitarian efforts highlight the profound role that medicine can play, not just in healing, but in empowering individuals and communities.

Mr Tiryaki also emphasised the importance of teamwork and collaboration, recognising his ISAPS colleagues for their dedication. He gave special praise to the growing number of female surgeons involved in ISAPS humanitarian missions, describing their work in disaster and conflict zones as brave, selfless, and transformative.

Two Pillars of ISAPS Humanitarian Work

Under Mr. Tiryaki’s leadership, ISAPS has developed two core pillars of humanitarian programmes:

1. Planned Missions – Focused on addressing chronic issues such as cleft palate, burn injuries and FGM.
2. Disaster Relief Missions – Rapid-response teams that provide life-saving surgical care in conflict zones and areas struck by natural disasters.

This dual approach ensures that ISAPS can deliver both long-term solutions and emergency relief, helping individuals in dire need of medical care around the world.

A Lifelong Mission to Help Others

In his acceptance speech, Mr Tiryaki expressed his gratitude for the award, stating:
“This honour reflects the efforts of many, and I accept it for all who have stood with me. My reason for becoming a doctor was simple: to help people. That remains my purpose. Helping people through surgery—corrective, aesthetic, or reconstructive—is my life’s work.”

He concluded with a call to action, urging the global medical community to continue fighting for a future where every human, regardless of background or circumstances,can live with dignity and health.

A Legacy of Healing and Empowerment

Mr Tiryaki’s humanitarian work embodies the belief that medicine is not just a tool for healing but also for empowering individuals and restoring hope. His award serves as a reminder that true success in healthcare lies in using expertise to uplift those in need, whether through planned missions, disaster relief, or reconstructive surgeries.