Health Free Cleft Lip & Palate Surgeries Restore Smiles in Yasothon

[Georgealbert]

 

Picture courtesy of SiamNews.

 

A health initiative offering free surgeries for children and adults with cleft lips, cleft palates and other facial deformities has officially launched in Yasothon Province, providing life-changing treatment for 60 patients from Yasothon and nearby provinces.

 

The project, titled “Creating Opportunities, Restoring Smiles”, is a collaboration between Yasothon Hospital and the Operation Smile Foundation. The campaign was formally opened on 4 August 2025 by Deputy Governor of Yasothon, Lt. Col. Khanchai Thanthima, at Yasothon Hospital.

 

Lt. Col. Khanchai stated that the project aligns with the government’s policy to reduce inequality and improve universal healthcare access, particularly for vulnerable groups. He praised both the hospital and the foundation for bringing specialist healthcare services directly to communities, easing the financial burden of travel and treatment for rural families.

 

“This project is an investment in the future of our people. It sets a model for compassionate care that offers not just medical treatment, but hope and confidence for children and families across the region,” he said.

 

Dr. Amnuaysilp Krusanti, Deputy Director for Dental Services at Yasothon Hospital, explained the significant impact that facial deformities such as cleft lips and palates have on patients’ physical and emotional wellbeing. These conditions can cause speech and hearing difficulties, daily discomfort and economic hardship for families.

 

Of 92 individuals screened, 60 have been selected for surgery during the campaign, which runs from 5 to 8 August. The operations will also address conditions such as fused or extra fingers, burn contractures and other facial abnormalities. The overarching goal, Dr. Amnuaysilp said, is not only to correct deformities but to help patients regain confidence and reintegrate into society with dignity.

 

More than 200 medical professionals, including surgeons, dentists, nurses and volunteers from both organisations, have joined the mission, which is supported by a budget of over 544,800 baht. In addition to the surgeries, educational outreach activities are being held in local schools to raise awareness and promote social understanding about facial deformities.

 

This initiative marks a major milestone in providing equitable healthcare and restoring hope, one smile at a time.

 

 

  Adapted by Asean Now from SiamNews 2025-08-06