Face Transplant Patient Speaks Out: A Landmark in Medical History

Dallas Wiens, the recipient of the first full face transplant in the United States, will share his journey with the media on April 2 at Brigham and Women’s Hospital. Wiens, who underwent over 15 hours of surgery, will discuss his experiences post-transplant and his work with the About Face Foundation.

The intricate procedure involved a team of over 30 medical professionals replacing Wiens’ facial features, including his nose, lips, skin, muscles, and nerves. “It’s been an incredible journey,” says Wiens, reflecting on his transformation.

Securing consent for the tissue graft, essential for the transplant, required delicate conversations with the donor’s family. “Consent from the donor’s family is crucial for such donations,” stresses the hospital’s spokesperson.

Brigham and Women’s Hospital (BWH) is renowned for its pioneering work in facial transplantation. Supported by a Department of Defense grant, BWH’s Face Transplant Program continues to seek suitable candidates for this groundbreaking surgery.

The hospital’s legacy in transplantation dates back to 1954 when Dr. Joseph Murray led the first successful human organ transplant—a kidney—from one brother to another. Over the years, BWH achieved several milestones, including New England’s first heart transplant in 1984 and the completion of its 600th heart transplant recently.

Noteworthy achievements include Massachusetts’ first heart-lung transplant in 1992, the first triple organ transplant in 1995, and the first quintuple lung transplant in 2004 in the United States. BWH also stands out for its high volume of lung transplants, positioning it as a leading institution in the country.

In 2006, the hospital celebrated a milestone with 100 kidney transplants in a single year. These achievements underscore BWH’s position as a global leader in organ transplantation.