Creating the Successful Global Maxillofacial Surgeon: A 35-Year Perspective

Abstract

The success of global outreach surgical programs depends on many factors including the preparation of the surgeons involved in the program. Surgeons in preparing for global outreach programs often focus on surgical procedures or techniques as the most important aspect of the preparation for the program. Just as important to success of the outreach program is the surgeon's familiarity with the language, cultural, and social norms of the host country or region. This article provides valuable information on these issues from three oral and maxillofacial surgeons who have been engaged in global oral and maxillofacial surgery outreach programs for decades.

Keywords: Cultural and social norms; Global oral and maxillofacial surgery; Global surgical outreach program.