Maxillofacial surgeon Iain Hutchison works with people whose faces have been severely disfigured. By pushing to improve surgical techniques, he helps to improve their lives; and by commissioning their portraits, he celebrates their humanity. NOTE: This talk contains images of disfigured and badly injured faces that may be disturbing -- and Hutchison provides thoughtful answers as to why a disfigured face can shock us so deeply. Squeamish? Hide your screen from 12:10 - 13:19, but do keep listening. Portraits shown in this talk come from Mark Gilbert.

Iain Hutchison: Saving faces: A facial surgeon's craft

Saving faces: A facial surgeon's craft

Facial surgery not only transforms appearances but deeply affects individuals' identities, reshaping their interaction with the world.

Advancements in facial reconstruction offer hope, yet highlight the need for ethical consideration and support beyond the physical.

Tissue engineering promises a future where reconstructive surgery aligns closer with patients' identities without lifelong medication.