The Maxillofacial Department of the Dental College at King George's Medical University (KGMU) in Lucknow is helping restore appearances through advanced prosthetic rehabilitation techniques. The doctors create artificial facial structures using silicone-based prostheses, which improve their appearance as well as their quality of life.
With the new technique, the department has treated several victims of accidents, cancer, and acid attacks. Notably, during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2021 and 2022, the department successfully treated 45 black fungus (mucormycosis) patients with severe damage to their faces due to infection. In many cases, the disease had destroyed parts of the jaw, palate, nose, and surrounding facial structures. Doctors recreated the damaged areas and helped patients regain normal functions such as speaking and eating through specialised maxillofacial prosthetics. This specialised treatment is reportedly available only at KGMU in the state of Uttar Pradesh. Cancer patients receive treatment free of cost, though the rehabilitation process can take several months and often requires multiple visits.
