DATE: Sunday, May 25, 1997                  TAG: 9705230201

SECTION: VIRGINIA BEACH BEACON   PAGE: 03   EDITION: FINAL 

COLUMN: CLOSE-UP 

                                            LENGTH:   59 lines

JOHN B. MCCRAW: PLASTIC SURGEON, GOLFER

Plastic surgeon John B. McCraw is having a great month.

He was just named president of the 500-member (by invitation only) American Association of Plastic Surgeons, and was also selected as Clinician of the Year at the annual meeting last week in Portland, Ore. That's the first time an incoming president has been given that award.

``It's a great honor,'' said McCraw from his office on Witchduck Road. He paused and laughed. ``It usually means you're getting old.''

McCraw, who developed the skin flap technique in reconstructive surgery, which uses skin and muscle to reconstruct various parts of the body, is traveling on to Calgary, Alberta, to present a hand-crafted, embroidered banner from the American group to the Canadian Society of Plastic Surgeons.

When he isn't hunched over the operating table, he can be found playing the links at Cypress Point Country Club. But think twice before asking him to join a foursome. McCraw has an impressive 12-handicap.

``I got too busy to play for 20 years,'' he said. ``Then I took golf lessons from Liz Rogers. It was the best thing I ever did.''

Full name: John B. McCraw, M.D.

Hometown: Springfield, Mo.

What brought you to the Beach? The water.

Birthdate: July 17, 1940.

Occupation: Plastic surgeon.

Nickname: Mr. Flap.

Marital status: Cynthia McCraw.

Children: Three - Sarah McCraw Crow, a journalist; Nancy McCraw Higgins, a family counselor; and Andrew McCraw, a medical researcher.

What is your idea of a perfect day off? Duck, N.C.

Last smart thing you did: Golf lessons from Liz Rogers.

Last dumb thing you did: Wore two different shoes to work.

Favorite meal: Any Italian.

Favorite movies: ``The English Patient.''

Favorite song: ``Take Five,'' Dave Brubeck Quartet.

Last book read: Jeffrey Toobin, ``Run of His Life (The People vs. O.J.).''

Hobbies: Golf and water sports

If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be? I'd have more hair.

If you could change one thing about your spouse, what would it be? Play more golf.

Secret vice: Snickers candy bars

Favorite restaurant: Maude's.

Your favorite night on the town: Naro movie.

Favorite TV shows: ``Masterpiece Theater''

Favorite sport: Pro football.

Last vacation: Duck, N.C.

Pets: Schnauzer.

Worst job: Moving/baling hay.

Of what achievements are you most proud? Family and friends.

What would you like as your epitaph? A caring person and a good teacher. ILLUSTRATION: Staff photo by CHARLIE MEADS

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