Man Who Shot Himself In The Face Undergoes Life-Changing Face Transplant
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A man who attempted to take his own life by shooting himself in the face has undergone a face transplant.
Cameron Underwood from Yuba City, California, underwent a life-changing reconstruction operation on his face back in January and now the incredible results have been revealed.
Twenty-six-year-old Cameron, a welder, attempted to take his own life in June 2016 by shooting himself in the face. As a result of the gun shot, he lost most of his lower jaw, his nose and all his teeth apart from one. He also sustained severe damage to his palate and maxillary region.
After a few attempts at more conventional surgery, with limited success, Cameron found Dr Eduardo Rodriguez, who works at NYU Langone Health in Manhattan.
The gruelling operation involved the skilled work of over 100 medics, who spent more than 25 hours working on Cameron.
At a press conference in New York today, Cameron said: "I am so grateful to have a face transplant because it gives me a second chance at life.
"Even though I'm still recovering and gaining back sensation and mobility, mostly with my lips, I'm still very happy with the results. I have a nose, and a mouth so I'm able to smile, to speak and eat solid foods again."
Dr Rodriguez said: "For all of us it's really remarkable to be a part of this and make this happen.
"There's no way we could have ever taken him back to a normal life without a face transplant."
Cameron waited just six months to find a suitable donor, but one arrived in the form of 23-year-old William Fisher, an aspiring writer and filmmaker, who died on New Year's Eve last year following a long battle with mental illness.
In a statement about her son becoming a donor, William's mum Sally said: "My son's death was a tragedy.
"I am thankful that, in honouring his decision, we were able to give life to others, and especially that Will and Dr. Rodriguez have given Cameron and his family a chance to recapture their dreams.
"Being a part of this experience has been a source of strength for me during a very difficult time. I don't think I would have survived Will's death if not for Cameron. Cameron has his whole life ahead of him - and I love the idea that Willie is helping him have a better life."
Cameron added: "I'd like to say that there have been so many amazing advances in surgery. I'm living proof of that. But it only happens because of special people like Will and his family."
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Featured Image Credit: NYU Langone Health
Topics: Inspirational, US News
