The ongoing conflict in Ukraine has left a devastating trail of physical and emotional scars. To help those impacted, a network of aesthetic medicine specialists across Ukraine is providing free reconstructive care to wounded soldiers and civilians. This program offers not only physical healing but also a path to regain confidence and improve their quality of life.
One of the program’s beneficiaries is 23-year-old Jana Ziva, a drone pilot who sustained severe facial and hand injuries during a Russian drone attack in August. The attack left her with shrapnel scars, a stark reminder of the conflict’s brutality. Before the injury, Ziva had considered cosmetic surgery to enhance her appearance. However, the experience has shifted her perspective. “After the injury, I understood that cleaning my skin will make me beautiful again. That’s how I accepted myself,” she shares, displaying remarkable resilience. “I’m not scared of scars. I understand that this can be fixed.”
The program extends beyond cosmetic improvements, addressing the debilitating effects of severe wounds. Maxim Turkovich, CEO of Unburn, a privately funded initiative within the program, explains, “Very often, we’re talking about how a person moves and moves different parts of the body.” He illustrates the impact with an example, “When a patient has scars on his hands, very often he has no opportunity to…to squeeze his fists. And it’s…directly the functionality of the person.” This focus on restoring functionality is crucial for individuals like Ziva, who relies on her hands to operate drones. After receiving treatment, she expresses relief, “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.”
The program’s impact extends beyond physical healing, addressing the psychological toll of war. Alexander Chiker, an acrobatics instructor from Kyiv, lost his leg to a tank shell. He is receiving treatment for scars on his amputated limb, a common issue for amputees that can make wearing prosthetics painful. While the treatment alleviates pain, Alexander highlights its profound impact on mental well-being. “There are wounds which boys need to address and work on,” he 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.”
As the conflict continues with no foreseeable end, initiatives like this free reconstructive care program offer a beacon of hope for wounded Ukrainians. By addressing both physical and psychological scars, the program empowers individuals to rebuild their lives and face the future with renewed confidence.
