Surgery Fund for Facial Reconstruction

Hello everyone, I am reaching out today to ask for your support through this GoFundMe campaign as I embark on a journey to regain my quality of life and restore my face and smile.

My name is Diana, and I have been diagnosed with several challenging conditions affecting my jaw and facial structure, including horizontal maxillary hypoplasia, horizontal mandibular hyperplasia, anterior open bite, maxillary asymmetry, myalgia of mastication muscle, and a class III dental relationship, leading to masticatory dysfunction.

Before the age of 19, my face displayed natural symmetry. However, during my college years, I began experiencing discomfort in my jaw, noticeable facial changes, and a significant shift in my bite. At first, the symptoms seemed trivial, and I sought medical advice, which initially pointed to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) issues. Following visits to dentists and orthodontists, it became apparent that a more specialized approach was required. After consulting a jaw specialist, I was misdiagnosed with idiopathic condylar resorption (ICR). After seeking additional medical opinions over the next 2 years, I discovered that my condition was due to the diagnosis I mentioned above rather than ICR.

To permanently address these challenges and regain my previous appearance, I have been advised to undergo a complex surgical procedure called midface reconstruction, Le Fort I maxillary osteotomy (three pieces with graft), and mandibular reconstruction, bilateral sagittal osteotomies of the mandibular ramus with rigid fixation. This surgery holds the key to correcting my facial asymmetry and restoring my smile, and my ability to chew, speak, and live without constant pain and discomfort.

Throughout this journey these past 5 years, I have invested significant time and financial resources into orthodontic treatment and multiple minor surgeries, totaling approximately $10,000. Now, as I stand ready to undergo the crucial and transformative main surgery, the associated costs have escalated to $34,000 for the surgeon's fees and $8,300 for the hospital, anesthesia, and other related expenses.

Unfortunately, my attempts to secure personal loans have been hindered, leaving me with few financial options. That is why I turn to you all, my friends and family, in the hope that you might contribute what you can to help me reach my fundraising goal. Your contributions will not only alleviate the financial burden but also provide me with the opportunity to permanently resolve these debilitating issues that have impacted my daily life.

The photos included above illustrate the severity of my condition, with the leftmost image showcasing the extent of my anterior bite, demonstrating the drastic changes my face has undergone from 2019 to 2022. During this time, my ability to bite was severely impaired, relying on only four teeth in the back of my mouth. The middle photo depicts the resting position of my teeth, highlighting the ongoing challenges I faced, including constant headaches, difficulty in performing basic tasks like speaking for extended periods and struggling to eat food properly, resulting in digestion issues. The last photo captures my most recent state after invisalign and oral surgeries, with my teeth finally touching and my face displaying improved symmetry—a testament to the positive impact this surgery will have on my life.

As I establish this GoFundMe campaign today, I am filled with gratitude for all the support and encouragement I have received from my incredible network of friends and family these past few years. With your help, I can finally overcome these challenges and achieve a life free from pain and physical limitations.

I am truly thankful to you all as anything would help.