While some people assume plastic surgery is just for the rich and famous, that’s not always the case. A group of four cosmetic surgery patients recently recognized for their contributions to society reminds us that reconstructive plastic surgery strengthens lives – and makes otherwise impossible feats a heroic reality. These honored individuals all suffered physical adversities and in some cases went through repeated surgeries as part of an intensive recovery process. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, this year’s honorees include the first full face transplant recipient in the United States, a military journalist injured in Iraq, a lawyer born with a facial cleft and a cancer survivor that has raised millions for research.
The recipients of the Patients of Courage: Triumph Over Adversity awards were recognized in Colorado at the American Society of Plastic Surgeon’s annual conference. “The words ‘plastic surgery’ often conjure up images of overdone Hollywood celebrities, but the reconstructive side of plastic surgery often gets overlooked,” said ASPS President Phillip Haeck, MD. “The Patients of Courage program is an opportunity for us to recognize patients that have not only persevered through challenging reconstructive surgery, but used that journey as an opportunity to educate and serve others.”
The honorees included a Texas man that was badly burned in a high voltage electrical fire. Doctors didn’t expect 24 year-old Dallas Wiens to survive, but he beat the odds. He became the nation’s first recipient of a full face transplant and has since organized his own foundation to help others with similar medical conditions.
Aaron Mankin was also recognized. This U.S. Marine Corp journalist was burned in Iraq when his Humvee ran over an explosive device. He had 55 surgeries and skin grafts to battle the burns on his bodies. He now donates his time to “Operation Mend.” Dee Dee Ricks, a breast cancer survivor, who went through a bilateral mastectomy, was also an award recipient. She raises money for breast cancer research and documented her struggle in a film that premiered at the TRIBECA film festival. The fourth recipient was Jamie Verdi, of Michigan. This lawyer was born with a facial cleft and has gone through multiple surgeries to fix this craniofacial condition. She does pro bono work and volunteers for multiple community organizations.
Supporting patients in need – and bringing broadened perspectives to the plastic surgery field
As an expert in reconstructive breast surgery and a former volunteer surgeon serving underprivileged communities with reconstructive surgical aid, Dr. Stuart B. Kincaid is no stranger to the adversity faced by many plastic surgery patients – and today, he brings that same compassion, understanding and support to each and every one of his cosmetic surgery patients. Whether they are considering a minor cosmetic procedure, a reconstructive surgery after injury or illness, a face lift or full body contouring, Dr. Kincaid’s patients know they can rely on his extensive experience and understanding of individual needs to personalize each meeting and treatment plan for the best, safest, most natural and customized results.
To learn more about Dr. Kincaid’s practice, including financing options, available procedures, reconstructive surgery FAQs and more, contact us by calling 1-866-BEST-IMAGE, our San Diego/La Jolla office (858-450-4199) or our Temecula/Riverside location (951-695-9934) today. You can also find a wealth of information on our homepage: http://www.skincaid.com.
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Tags: breast cancer, breast reconstruction, reconstructive surgery
