The ongoing conflict in Ukraine has left countless individuals with life-altering injuries. To address the physical and emotional scars of war, a network of aesthetic medicine specialists across Ukraine is providing free reconstructive care to wounded soldiers and civilians. This program, funded by private donations, offers a glimmer of hope and a path toward healing for those who have sacrificed so much.
Healing Visible and Invisible Wounds
One of the program’s beneficiaries is Jana Ziva, a 23-year-old drone pilot who suffered severe facial and hand injuries when a Russian drone struck her dugout. Before the war, Ziva contemplated cosmetic surgery to enhance her appearance. Now, she finds beauty in the healing process itself, recognizing that reconstructive surgery can help her regain both physical function and self-acceptance.
“Before the injury, I wanted to change something in my face, correct things with the help of surgery,” Ziva shares. “After the injury, I understood that cleaning my skin will make me beautiful again. That’s how I accepted myself. I’m not scared of scars. I understand that this can be fixed and I will get help to get over it.”
Addressing the Impacts of Trench Warfare
The brutality of trench warfare, a hallmark of the conflict, often results in devastating injuries, particularly from artillery fire. Maxim Turkovich, CEO of Unburn, a key organization within the network, explains that the program aims to improve the overall quality of life for patients with severe wounds, often focusing on restoring basic functionality.
“Very often we’re talking about how [a] person moves different parts of [their] body,” says Turkovich. “For example, when a patient has scars on his hands, very often [he] has no opportunity to squeeze his fists. It’s directly related to the functionality of the person.”
Ziva, now able to fully use her hands again, highlights the significance of this restored functionality: “There was a huge hole here… and I can easily move my hands now. Sensors are back in my fingers, which is extremely important for me as a drone pilot. I use these fingers to turn on and off a drone.”
The Power of Reconstructive Care
The program’s impact extends far beyond physical healing. Alexander Chiker, an acrobatics instructor from Kyiv who received treatment for a leg amputated after a tank shell hit his trench, emphasizes the psychological benefits of the care. Scarring on amputees’ stumps is common and can make wearing prosthetics excruciating. By addressing these issues, the program alleviates both physical discomfort and the emotional burden that often accompanies visible injuries.
“There are wounds which boys need to address and work on,” Chiker observes. “I know that some soldiers who have wounds on their faces start to shut themselves off. They develop insecurities; they are afraid to look people in the eye because of their wounds. I wouldn’t want them to shut off.”
Through specialized surgical procedures and ongoing support, this network of medical professionals provides a lifeline to those grappling with the aftermath of devastating injuries. The program’s commitment to restoring both physical function and emotional well-being underscores the profound impact of compassionate, comprehensive care for those affected by the ongoing crisis in Ukraine.
