As surgeons, we spend our days helping patients and getting them better. However, some patients leave a lasting mark on our hearts and minds and remind about how wonderful it is to be able to help those in need.
Jacqueline came to see me a few years ago when she was a young teenager. She didn’t say a word; instead, her wonderful, sweet mom, Terri did all the talking. Jacqueline was born with a significant facial deformity which caused her facial bones to be improperly proportioned. This prevented her from being able to smile, speak or interact with others without making her feel shy and uncomfortable. In fact, she was home schooled throughout her high school years to keep her shielded from other children who did not understand or care enough to see past Jacqueline’s functional and aesthetic issues.
With the help of her orthodontist, I planned her cosmetic facial, reconstructive and intranasal surgery. We utilized cutting edge 21st century technology to virtually plan and simulate her surgery and give her an idea of her results.
The surgery took 3-4 hours under anesthesia and she went home after surgery. Jacqueline’s recovery was uneventful and she has since healed beautifully. Her result speaks for itself and every Thanksgiving and Christmas I am so fortunate to get a message from Terri telling me how thankful they are to have met me. It is so awesome to see how Jacqueline has turned into such an outgoing, strong, young woman. She is currently studying Japanese and will spend time immersed in culture overseas. Jacqueline’s story is a testament to how amazing it is to be able to do what we do. Thank you, Jacqueline, for being an inspiration!