RECONSTRUCTING HOPE: VIOLET’S CRANIOFACIAL JOURNEY

In October 2014, at just 20 months old, Violet traveled thousands of miles from rural Oregon to Boston for a complex nine-hour operation. Born on February 12, 2013, alongside her twin sister Cora, Violet was diagnosed with an exceptionally rare combination of craniofacial abnormalities: a Tessier facial cleft and an encephalocele. These conditions left gaps in her facial bones, placed her eyes unusually far apart, and caused an opening in her skull where tissues surrounding the brain protruded.

Determined to find specialized care, her parents, Alicia and Matt, connected with families through a support group and identified a skilled team at Boston Children’s Hospital led by plastic surgeon Dr. John Meara and neurosurgeon Dr. Mark Proctor. To prepare for the high-stakes procedure near delicate brain and eye structures, the surgical team utilized advanced 3D-printed physical models of Violet’s skull. This technology allowed doctors to thoroughly examine her unique anatomy and plan the precise reconstruction before stepping into the operating room.

The successful surgery reshaped Violet’s face and marked a major turning point, though medical teams anticipated ongoing follow-up treatments as her facial structure developed. By 2019, six-year-old Violet was attending first grade, learning alongside her twin, and enjoying outdoor adventures, crafting, and horseback riding.

While public reactions to her physical differences occasionally posed social challenges, her warm smile and vibrant personality quickly won people over. Violet’s story highlights not only the power of surgical innovation and multidisciplinary care, but also the enduring support of a family dedicated to giving their child a fulfilling life beyond the hospital.