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Operation Smile has transformed lives around the world by providing care to patients for more than 40 years.
- Cleft Explained Get the basics on cleft conditions.
- Surgery and Beyond Learn how cleft care is more than surgery.
- Real-Life Stories Read stories from our patients and volunteers.
Shaping the Future of Africa’s Health Care

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Since our founding in 1982, Operation Smile has believed that access to safe surgery is not a privilege, but a universal human right.
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- Cleft Explained
- Surgery and Beyond
- Real-Life Stories
- Where We Work
- Education and Training
- Youth Empowerment
- Policy and Advocacy
- Strategic Partners
- Thought Leadership
- Ways to Give
- Share Your Medical Expertise
- Student Programs
- Advocate for Us
- Partner With Us
- Our Story and Impact
- Our Leadership
- Corporate Partners
- Financials and Reports
- News and Media
- Interactive Learning Center
- Careers

Real-Life Stories

These stories — from patients, health care providers, students and more — are made possible through the generous support from donors like you.

Featured Stories

Adolphe, before surgery

Adolphe, before surgery

Featured Story

Meet Adolphe: A Bubbly Baby with Bright Eyes and a Brand-New Smile

In northwestern Rwanda, a 6 month old receives much need care thanks to Operation Smile.

Read His Story

Recent Stories

Read the latest stories from Operation Smile.

Irene Dzirasa smiles while holding 9-month-old Selina.

Africa

Making a Difference: How Policy and Advocacy Changes Lives for Patients and Their Communities

Operation Smile’s Irene Dzirasa explains how she and her colleagues work with governments and global partners to ensure better, safer surgeries throughout Africa and the world.

Ihan laughs while playing with a member of Clowns without Borders.

Colombia

The Road to a Brighter Future Comes with Tears and Smiles

In a remote region of Colombia, Carla finds hope – and laughter – while accessing care for her son Ihan’s cleft conditions.

Three individuals smile during ISLC 2023.

Global

Cleft Connect: A Global Community for Support, Connection and Impact

Cleft Connect is more than a support group; it’s helping young people with cleft conditions and parents feel seen, heard and equipped to make a difference in their communities and beyond.

A volunteer shows proper brushing technique during a dental program in Vietnam.

Asia and the Pacific

A Partnership for Healthy Smiles

Learn how Operation Smile Vietnam is expanding oral health access for children in Huế with the support of mothers and dentists.

Chris Joy smiles for the camera after surgery.

Africa

After a Tragic Burn Accident, a Young Boy Receives A New Lease On Life

In Rwanda, Chris Joy receives care, prosthetics and hope from Operation Smile’s team of newly trained volunteer surgeons.

Volunteer Nurse Dominga smiles for the camera.

Latin America and the Caribbean

Translating Care: Dominga’s Journey of Connection

Angie smiles for the camera.

Honduras

Ripple Effect: Angie’s Journey of Confidence, Care and Purpose

Meet a young Honduran woman who turned her cleft journey into a mission — supporting families, inspiring patients and pursuing a future in medicine.

Karla and her dad.

Global

Four for Father’s Day: Remarkable Dads Whose Strength and Determination Helped the Children They Love

A vehicle from the DRC, stuck in the mud.

Africa

Going the Extra Mile without a Road

Operation Smile DRC’s Roaming Comprehensive Care Program brings care to patients despite challenging conditions.

Get Involved

You can give a child the chance to grow up happy and healthy — free from stigma and isolation, and full of hope for the future.

More Ways to Get Involved

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Your gift today will help transform lives and increase access to essential surgical care.

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