Have you ever come across someone whose face bears the marks of scars and tumours, leaving their appearance looking far from natural? Have you ever stopped to consider the emotional pain they might endure when our curious stares linger upon them?

Hi! I am Dr. Anjali Saple and today, I want to share with you the remarkable journey of one such patient who walked into my clinic carrying not just a physical burden but a heavy emotional one as well.

I met a 20-year-old girl who came to me with a tumour on her right cheek. This tumour was not just a physical growth; it was a menacing intruder that had been growing at an alarming rate. What made her case even more disheartening was the fact that she had already undergone surgery elsewhere just three months prior in an attempt to remove it. But, against all odds, the tumour had returned with a vengeance, disrupting her life and studies.

Swati with tumour on her cheek before and after images

The moment I met her, I could sense the weight of her despair. Imagine her frustration and anguish as she realized that the tumour had not only made a comeback but had also left a visible scar on her cheek from the previous surgery. Her parents shared her distress, fearing their daughter’s health and future were at stake. Adding to their worries, final exams were looming, casting a shadow of uncertainty over her academic aspirations.

What Complicated the Case?

This was no ordinary case; it presented us with a formidable challenge. The previous surgery had left a scar on her cheek, complicating matters further. What’s more, the branches of the primary facial nerve were located perilously close to the tumour. Any inadvertent damage to these delicate nerves could result in permanent facial asymmetry, a risk we were determined to avoid at all costs.

How We Approached It:

Our primary goal was clear: not only to remove the tumour but also to ensure that our patient’s facial appearance remained as natural as possible. To achieve this, we devised a unique approach - performing the surgery from inside her mouth. This strategic decision would minimize the risk of additional facial scarring and eliminate any potential damage to the facial nerves.

The surgery itself was a laborious and meticulous procedure, spanning nearly three hours. Every step was executed with precision as we gently separated the tumour from the surrounding tissues, ensuring its complete removal. Microscopic examination of the tumour afterwards confirmed the success of our procedure.

Swati with tumour on her cheek

The Outcome:

Fast forward almost eight months, and the transformation is nothing short of astounding. Our young patient’s face has returned to its natural appearance, and the scar from the previous surgery is gradually fading into memory. This incredible progress is attributed to our dedicated scar protocol, which includes scar massage with creams, silicon sheets, and nano fat grafting.

But what truly warms our hearts is the fact that she not only conquered her physical challenges but also emerged victorious in her academic endeavours. Despite the odds, she excelled in her final exams, standing as a testament to her resilience and determination.

This story is a poignant reminder of the emotional and physical battles that many individuals face, often hidden behind scars and tumours. It’s a testament to the power of modern medicine and the unwavering support of a compassionate medical team. More than that, it reinforces our commitment to not only heal bodies but also to provide solace and understanding during trying times.

If you have ever encountered someone on a similar journey or if you are facing a challenging situation, remember that there is hope. Don’t hesitate to seek medical advice and explore your options. Together, we can overcome adversity and emerge more robust and more confident on the other side.

Thank you for taking the time to read this inspiring story. Please feel free to reach out if you have any questions or want to share your experiences. Remember, there is always hope, and together, we can face any challenge that life presents.