Main image: American and Ukrainian surgeons stand side by side before surgery in Lviv. Photo: Josh Olley
A team of oculoplastic, microsurgical, and maxillofacial surgeons from the U.S. and Ukraine has conducted around 40 consultations and planned 30 reconstructive surgeries for Ukrainians who suffered facial injuries and lost eyes due to the war. The consultations and surgical procedures are carried out as part of the Vision for Ukraine medical mission.
Vision for Ukraine is a mission in which Ukrainian and international specialists provide reconstructive medical care to Ukrainians affected by the Russian-Ukrainian war. Over the past two years, leading American and Ukrainian medical professionals participating in the mission have helped more than 130 military and civilian patients with facial injuries and eye loss.
The current mission is the fourth and is taking place in Kyiv. Medical teams are performing orbital reconstructions, restoring soft tissues, conducting microsurgical skin flap transplants, and fitting patients with customized 3D implants.
“Alongside American experts—Jorge Corona, Stuart Seiff, Patrick Carpenter, and John Frodel—Ukrainian ophthalmic surgeons are learning advanced techniques and are already independently performing high-tech reconstructive procedures. This strengthens the national capacity of the healthcare system and expands treatment opportunities for military personnel within the country,” said the Christian Medical Association of Ukraine, organizers of the Vision for Ukraine mission.
As part of the mission, military patients receive free personalized titanium 3D implants, created using individual CT models, with support from international partners. These implants help restore bone structures, return natural facial contours, reduce the need for repeat surgeries, and significantly accelerate rehabilitation after blast injuries.
After Kyiv, the Vision for Ukraine team will continue their work on December 4–5 in Lviv, where war-affected children will receive medical assistance.
