Face transplant
About this test
A face transplant may be a treatment option for some people with severe damage to their faces or a visible difference in the appearance of their faces. A face transplant replaces all or part of the face with donor tissue from someone who has died. A face transplant is a complex operation that takes months of planning and multiple surgical teams. The procedure is performed in only a few transplant centers worldwide. Each face transplant candidate is carefully evaluated to help ensure the best possible results in appearance and function.
Why it's done
A face transplant is performed to try to improve the quality of life for someone who has experienced severe trauma, burns, disease or birth defects that affected his or her face. It is intended to enhance both appearance and functional abilities, such as chewing, swallowing, talking and breathing through the nose. Some people seek this surgery to reduce the social isolation they experience while living with visible differences in their faces.
Risks and complications
A face transplant is a challenging procedure. It's fairly new and very complex. Since the first face transplant in 2005, more than 40 people are known to have undergone the surgery, ranging in age from 19 to 60. Several have died because of an infection or rejection. Complications can result from: The surgery The body's rejection of the transplant tissue Side effects of immunosuppressant drugs Further surgeries or hospital visits may be needed to treat complications.
Understanding your results
You and your transplant team can't know for sure what the results of your surgery will be. Each previous face transplant recipient has had different experiences with the post-surgical appearance and function. Most face transplant recipients experienced improved ability to smell, eat, drink, talk, smile and make other facial expressions. Some regained the ability to feel a light touch on the face. Because this surgical technique is still fairly new, the long-term results for face transplant recipients are yet to be determined. Your results will be affected by: The extent of the operation Your body's response to the new tissue Nonphysical aspects of your recovery, such as your emotional and psychological response to living with a new face You will increase your chance of a positive outcome by carefully following your post-transplant care plan and seeking the support of friends, family and your transplant team.
Disclaimer: August is a health information platform and its responses don't constitute medical advise. Always consult with a licenced medical professional near you before making any changes.