Dallas Wiens

Dallas Wiens is an American man known for receiving the first full face transplant in the United States in 2011. Wiens' face was severely burned in a construction accident in 2008, which left him blind and without lips, a nose, or eyebrows. The transplant operation was performed at Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston, Massachusetts.

Early life and accident

Wiens was born in 1985 in Fort Worth, Texas. In November 2008, while volunteering at his church, he was severely injured when his head touched a high-voltage power line. The accident resulted in third-degree burns across his entire face, leaving him blind and without most facial features.

Face transplant

In 2011, Wiens underwent a full face transplant at Brigham and Women's Hospital. The 15-hour procedure involved a team of more than 30 doctors, nurses, anesthesiologists, and residents. The operation was led by plastic surgeon Dr. Bohdan Pomahac. The transplant included the nose, lips, facial skin, muscles of facial animation and nerves that power them and provide sensation.

Post-transplant life

Following the transplant, Wiens underwent extensive physical therapy and rehabilitation to regain control of his facial muscles. He also received psychological support to help him adjust to his new face. Despite the transplant, Wiens remains blind. He has become an advocate for face transplant research and organ donation.

See also

• Face transplant
• Organ transplantation
• Reconstructive surgery