ROCHESTER, Minn. – The Mayo Clinic announced Tuesday that its surgeons have successfully performed a face transplant for a Michigan man who survived a suicide attempt and now strives to help others.
The surgery was performed in February by surgeons with Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, according to a news release.
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The patient, 30-year-old Derek Pfaff, attempted to take his own life on March 5, 2014, and his face was left severely damaged by a self-inflicted gunshot, the release states.
Pfaff’s 10 years before coming to Mayo Clinic were marked with 58 reconstructive facial surgeries, yet he was still unable to eat solid food or manage casual speech leading up to the landmark operation, according to the release.
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Described as a passionate advocate for suicide prevention, Pfaff plans to share his story and encourage others to get help if they’re struggling, the release states.
“I lived for a reason. I want to help others,” Pfaff said in a statement. “I am so grateful to my donor, his family and my care team at Mayo Clinic for giving me this second chance.”
Read further about the operation and learn more about Pfaff’s story at Mayo Clinic’s website.
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