France News

French face transplant (by Dr Bernard Devauchelle) woman doesn’t get stared at

Wednesday, 11 January 2006

French face transplant woman doesn't get stared at

The French woman who has received the world's first partial face transplant has been out in public places without drawing stares, according to Dr Bernard Devauchelle her plastic surgeon.

And the surgeon told a French newspaper there were plans for five more face transplants.

The woman - who has not been named - is now walking, riding a bicycle, chatting and eating, Dr Devauchelle told Le Courrier Picard.

The 38-year-old divorced mother of two had received the transplant on 27 November last year after being mauled by her pet dog.

"Every day she passes by people with her face uncovered - and they don't necessarily recognise her," said the doctor who has been treating her.

The woman is still undergoing treatment however at hospitals in Lyon and Amiens.

The woman lost her nose, both lips and her chin after her Labrador mauled her while she slept and the dog was later put down, against the wishes of the woman's family.

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