Plastic Surgeons Lead By Example, Fueling The World Journey Of Smiles

Main Category: Cosmetic Medicine / Plastic Surgery
Also Included In: Cleft Palate
Article Date: 27 Nov 2007 - 0:00 PDT

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Founded 25 years ago by plastic surgeons, Operation Smile has treated more than 100,000 children with cleft lip and cleft palates throughout the world demonstrating that no other specialty can approach what plastic surgery does in reconstructing patients, restoring dignity and changing lives. This November, nearly 300 plastic surgeons lent their expertise to the World Journey of Smiles (WJOS) -- a unique Operation Smile 25th anniversary effort where from November 7th - November 16th in 25 countries plastic surgeons and other medical professionals conducted 40 missions, treating 4,149 children with facial deformities.

Leading by example in Ecuador were long-time Operation Smile volunteer and American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) President-Elect John Canady, MD and ASPS Executive Vice President, Paul Pomerantz. Both were humbled by their experience.

"I have volunteered for Operation Smile for over 15 years, and throughout this time I have had the pleasure of meeting some of the most incredible people in the world," said Dr. Canady. "It is an honor to be able to restore smiles to the faces of both my young patients and their concerned parents. Participating in the World Journey of Smiles here in Ecuador has reconfirmed for me what a positive impact plastic surgeons have on the lives of those who may not otherwise be given this opportunity."

In total, the World Journey of Smiles in Ecuador evaluated 197 patients, conducted 107 surgeries and 174 procedures. The medical director of Hospital de los Valles, where the mission took place, commented that Operation Smile had served as a great example of the impact that great teamwork and solidarity can have on the patients, setting an example for the staff at this new hospital.

The important role ASPS Member Surgeons played in the World Journey of Smiles is a great example of their passion and commitment to those in need--here in the United States and internationally. Over a thousand ASPS Member Surgeons, 20% of its full membership, travel internationally to provide no-cost plastic surgery for children--affirming that volunteerism is at the core of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.

Through the World Journey of Smiles "We have been able to show through medicine the value of truly committed joint efforts, and we will continue changing lives one smile at a time," said Operation Smile's Co-founder and former ASPS Member Surgeon William Magee, MD.

Visit http://www.plasticsurgery.org for referrals to ASPS Member Surgeons and to learn more about reconstructive and cosmetic plastic surgery.

The American Society of Plastic Surgeons is the largest organization of board-certified plastic surgeons in the world. With more than 6,000 members, the Society is recognized as a leading authority and information source on cosmetic and reconstructive plastic surgery. ASPS comprises 90 percent of all board-certified plastic surgeons in the United States. Founded in 1931, the Society represents physicians certified by The American Board of Plastic Surgery or The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada.

American Society of Plastic Surgeons
http://www.plasticsurgery.org