News
US Facial Transplant a Success
March 28, 2012 Nicola  |
American surgeons successfully performed one of the largest face transplant operations, giving Richard Lee Norris a new lease of life.
Surgeons in the US have successfully performed what they say is the most extensive face transplant ever performed.
37-year-old Richard Norris has led a reclusive life for the last 15 years after sustaining severe facial injuries from a gun accident. He lost his lips and nose in the accident and wore a mask whenever he left the house.
The operation was performed by surgeons at a hospital in Maryland. The final procedure took 36 hours and was part of a series of medical procedures which took 72 hours in total.
“Our goal is to restore function as well as have aesthetically pleasing results,” said lead surgeon Eduardo Rodriguez.
Since the operation, Mr Norris has brushed his teeth, shaved and even regained his sense of smell.
Funds for the operation came from the US navy who hope to use the technique on soldiers injured in combat.
By Louisa Guise
[Image courtesy of Alcor Life Extension Foundation]
