Face as an organ.
We propose that, the face should be regarded as an organ. We compare the anatomic structure and functions of the face with those of the kidney, one of the most commonly transplanted solid organs. Composite tissue allografts demonstrated to improve the quality of life. Although not classified as a life-essential transplant, face allotransplantation nevertheless constitutes a major reconstructive procedure. We emphasize the vital functions of the human face, underscoring that when these functions are jeopardized a patient's quality of life is compromised. In sum, although transplantation of solid organs is essential for a patient's physical survival, face allotransplantation is essential both for physical and social survival. Optimal social survival is what makes physical life worth living. Finally, when it comes to the gift of organ donation, it would be degrading to those signing the consent form to have the faces of their loved ones considered as merely skin.
Siemionow
Maria
M
Department of Plastic Surgery, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA. siemiom@ccf.org
Sonmez
Erhan
E
D000328:Adult; D002102:Cadaver; D005145:Face / Q000033:anatomy & histology* / Q000098:blood supply / Q000294:innervation / Q000502:physiology*; D005149:Facial Expression; D054445:Facial Transplantation; D006801:Humans; D007668:Kidney / Q000033:anatomy & histology* / Q000098:blood supply / Q000294:innervation / Q000502:physiology*; D016030:Kidney Transplantation; D008297:Male; D012933:Social Identification; D009626:Terminology as Topic