Int'l Womens Day

 

Celebration & Recognition

Women's History Month and International Women's Day 


IAOMS acknowledges International Women's Day (IWD) and Women's History Month (USA) as significant occasions to strengthen our commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion through the promotion of women's advancement on a global scale.

We celebrate the achievements of women in the OMFS workplace by advocating for forward-thinking policies, practices, incentives, and support systems.

We will persist in our objective of acknowledging the endeavors of women in the OMFS field globally who inspire others to achieve their utmost capabilities through:
 

  • Commemorating accomplishments:
    On IWD, the IAOMS and the OMFS community worldwide commemorate the incredible progress that women have achieved in this rigorous profession. May we continue to recognize the trailblazers who established the path and the contemporary cohorts that challenge conventions in the fields of education, research, and patient treatment.
     
  • Declaring the necessity for advancement:
    Notwithstanding substantial progress, women oral and maxillofacial surgeons continue to be underrepresented in their field. International Women's Day illuminates this discrepancy, inciting critical dialogues regarding the promotion of inclusivity and the encouragement of young women to embark on this trajectory.
     
  • A sense of community:
    IWD provides an opportunity for OMFS women to network and exchange personal anecdotes. Individuals can discover invaluable support networks, mentorship opportunities, and solidarity that are crucial for effectively navigating obstacles.
  • Advocating for change: 
    IWD has the potential to inspire and motivate advocacy initiatives and policies that foster parity in training, career progression, and leadership roles by increasing public consciousness regarding gender disparity.

The narrative around OMFS women is a continuous and evolving process, exploring themes of resilience, dedication, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. As time progresses, their contributions will persistently influence the OMFS specialization in groundbreaking, innovative ways. 


The history of women in oral and maxillofacial surgery is a testament to perseverance and barrier-breaking. While the field's origins trace back centuries, it wasn't until the 20th century that women began to carve their own space in the specialty.

 

Timeline of Women in Dentistry
ACOMS: A History of Women in Dentistry & OMFS

Despite facing some societal and professional biases, women in OMFS have continued to excel, demonstrating their dedication and expertise in the field. The decades that followed witnessed a gradual increase in the number of women entering oral and maxillofacial surgery. 


Today, while progress is evident, there is an opportunity for more women specialists in surgery. The landscape is undoubtedly changing, with women entering the field, holding leadership positions, and contributing significantly to advancements in patient care and research.

The following are profiles of women OMF surgeons from around the world who have persistently influenced the OMFS specialty in ground-breaking, innovative ways, inspired and motivated other women in the field, and broken barriers.

We extend our salute to you!
 

Dr. Bianca Pulino

Brazil

At present, I am employed at private healthcare facilities located in São Paulo, Brazil. My professional practice involves serving as an oral and maxillofacial surgeon at both the Leforte/DASA Hospitals and my personal private clinic.

I have gained experience in multiple hospitals, specifically in urgent and emergency services, as well as at universities where I have taught courses and served as a professor.The primary areas of focus for me encompass facial trauma, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) surgery, and orthognathic surgery.

I engage in public speaking and guest speaking at international congresses, and I currently have a position on the board of ALACIBU.

The most significant professional accomplishment I have attained is the acknowledgment of my work and the opportunity to provide presentations at congresses and conferences, enabling me to impart some of my expertise.

In addition to my surgical pursuits, I have a keen interest in emerging cultures, travel, museums, movies, and sports.

Dr. Vibha Singh

India

I currently hold the position of Professor in the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery at King George Medical University in Lucknow, India. I have successfully completed both my undergraduate and postgraduate studies at King George Medical University, Lucknow. Following my graduation, I had five years of experience working for the Uttar Pradesh government. In 2002, I was appointed as a faculty member in the Department of OMFS at the Faculty of Dental Sciences, K. G. Medical University, Lucknow. I have been employed as a Professor since 2013.

I am particularly interested in the field of TMJ Ankylosis, Trauma, and Benign Tumors, with a particular focus on Herbal Medicine. I am affiliated with the AO, IADR, AOMSI, UPAOMSI, and IDA societies dedicated to the study of medicinal plants.

I have authored a total of 106 scientific publications that have been published in a range of national and international journals. I have participated in over 150 workshops, conferences, and showcased my expertise through the presentation of scientific papers, chairing sessions, and delivering guest lectures.

I have completed a Postgraduate Diploma in Herbal Medicine. I am providing vocational training to impoverished women and children, equipping them with the skills necessary for their sustenance. This instruction encompasses various tasks, such as sewing garments and crafting food products.

Dr. Marina Morante Silva

USA

I am Assistant Professor of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery in the Head & Neck and Reconstructive Surgery division at the University of Florida, Jacksonville. Head and Neck Surgery, including oncology (oral cavity, larynx, skin cancer), reconstruction, trauma, emergency, and OMFS, are my specialties.

After completing my residency at University Hospital Rio Hortega in Valladolid, Spain, I worked as an OMFS consultant in Alicante. I finished a fellowship in Head and Neck and Microvascular Reconstruction Surgery at the University of Florida in Jacksonville.
My surgical interests include head & neck, oncology, and reconstruction.

I became a Fellow of the European Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery (FEMOMFS), am on the IAOMS Educational Committee, am a member of the Cabo Verdean Medical Association, which organizes mission trips every year, am still a member of SECOM (I will speak at the next meeting in Spain), and am a member of SORG and AOCMF.

I moderated and participated in the worldwide microsurgery club, attended EACMFS courses throughout Europe, and spoke at the recent ALACIBU convention.
Completed residency, Board Certification in Europe Oral and Maxillofacial and Head and Neck, and Microvascular Reconstruction Fellowship. I taught fellows and residents and spoke at meetings, conferences, and courses last year.

As well as the surgery, I've always loved music and art. I love concerts and old rock, blues, and jazz. I love exploring different cultures and countries.

Dr. Shreya Tocaciu

Australia

I have the advantage of working in two very distinct places. I work in Mt Gambier, a small South Australian provincial city, and at three large Melbourne hospitals with well-established Oral and Maxillofacial Units

My surgical training took place in Victoria and Tasmania, Australia. I worked or studied at Melbourne, Hobart, Adelaide, and Darwin oral and maxillofacial units.

I visited / observed / externed / volunteered in several international units during my training. These include Portland, Oregon, New Delhi, India, and Dili, Timor Leste. 

My specialties are TMJ and orthognathic surgery. Orthognathic surgery exemplifies form and function, art and science. I believe TMJ and orthognathic surgery greatly improve our patient's quality of life.

I always enjoyed teaching, and I learned a lot. I instruct OMS surgical trainees, medical students, dental students, and prevocational doctors. The Medical Education Committee of our South Australian training center includes myself.

I serve on the board of Oceania's OMS representative association, ANZAOMS. The IAOMS NextGen council is my last position. This is another great way to give back to the specialty that has taught me so much and helped me grow as a surgeon.

My spouse runs a winery, and I have two kids under four. I enjoy spending time on our property with fruit trees, vineyards, vegetable gardens, poultry, and sheep.

Dr. Reena Talwar

Canada

Being the only female OMFS is not uncommon, even in 2024. A reality that I, along with many of my female colleagues, thought would be different by now, but it isn’t. Or at least not fast enough.

I am one of two Alberta female oral and maxillofacial surgeons. My colleague and I work together at the University of Alberta and my Edmonton non-hospital surgical facility, Contours Oral Surgery. Building my clinic was a passion. I've been able to treat patients and teach students, classmates, and colleagues about our profession because of my passion for education and surgery.

I have been a full-time and part-time Associate Clinical Professor at the University of Alberta for 13 years. I was an Assistant Professor in Toronto and Kentucky before this post. I did my oral and maxillofacial surgery-PhD residency at Baylor Medical Center in Dallas, Texas. I was one of two women in my program. I have spent the past 20 years focusing on teaching and surgery, thanks to my PhD in biomedical sciences. I have helped young women in dentistry school and private practice develop surgical skills by being available. They've enjoyed seeing one become an oral and maxillofacial surgeon.

I network with talented and passionate professional women worldwide through local, national, and international Women in Dentistry activities. In 2021, I established a University of Alberta scholarship for young women interested in OMFS careers. I continue to mentor future female surgeons by teaching at conferences and as a Nobel Biocare Canada opinion leader. My female colleagues in professional leadership positions and on stage at symposiums all over the world inspire me. As much as possible, I want to be that woman for my female colleagues.

My husband, my biggest admirer and most honest constructive critic, helps me maintain a balanced and healthy personal life. Travel, fitness, and friendships balance my life.

Dr. Claudine Bussolaro

Brazil

Claudine Bussolaro

For more than two decades, I've been the OMS director at Dois Pinheiros Hospital in Brazil, as well as a clinical professor at two dental schools.

My specialties include third-molar surgery, maxillofacial trauma, orthognathic surgery, and TMJ surgery.

In addition, I work as a counselor at the Regional Councils of Dentistry (CRO) in Mato Grosso, Brazil, and am an active member of the region's Women's Committee. We started a social media effort on Instagram four years ago to combat prejudices against women in dentistry. The project just launched its fourth edition on March 8th, 2024.

In pursuit of further study, I earned an MSc in Dentistry from the University of Alberta in Canada, which supplemented my Brazilian OMS training.

I am now a PhD candidate with a research fellowship from the Brazilian government, and I will be temporarily relocating to Canada in May.

Aside from my job duties, I appreciate spending time with my family and our kitties. I enjoy spending time outside, especially camping, and immersing myself in nature's beauty.

Dr. Rosario Ugarte Palacin

Peru

I am the current Head of the Odontostomatology Service in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery at Edgardo Rebagliati Martins National Hospital. I am also the President of the Peruvian Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery from 2022 to 2024. My surgical interests include orthognathic surgery, implants, and oral and maxillofacial pathology.

My undergraduate education concluded at Inca Garcilaso de la Vega University, where I also received a Lima Peru Diploma in Oral Surgery. My second specialty, Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, was completed at Daniel Alcides Carrion National University. I earned a Master's degree in Health and Hospital Services Administration and a Doctorate in Public Health from the Universidad Nacional Peruana Federico Villarreal.

I am an associate and contributing member of ALACIBU and IAOMS.

Some of my accomplishments include the implementation and modernization of the hospital after 65 years of operation, the outpatient clinics, the issue of maxillofacial surgery, and the current availability of contemporary technology for insured patients. I completed the full reactivation of the Edgardo Rebagliati National Hospital's Dentistry Service following the COVID-19 epidemic and am a member of the National Oral Health Committee. This enabled Peru to honorably reactivate its national social security system.

We are still working along with the Peruvian Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, the Dental College of Peru, and the Congress of the Republic of Peru to advance the specialty of oral and maxillofacial surgery. The Peruvian Congress recognized me for this.

There is still much work to be done for Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery and Dentistry, both of which are recognized by Peruvian Law 27878. I hope to continue to receive IAOMS support, which will allow the specialty to flourish, grow, and be respected.

Dr. Elizabeth Gruber

United Kingdom

Claudine Bussolaro

I studied medicine at University College London, majoring in Neuroscience. I discovered a fervor for OMFS during Core Surgical Training and went on to undertake dentistry at Kings College London and higher specialist training in Birmingham and the West Midlands region of the UK. I have been an OMFS consultant for seven years with a specialist interest in orthognathic, skin, salivary, and TMJ surgery, and am currently working at Northampton General Hospital, UK.

I am passionate about education and supporting trainees at all stages, as the future of our specialty. My current roles are Associate Postgraduate Dean for Dental Core Training in the Midlands and Training Programme Director for the Joint Dental Foundation and Core Training program in the East of England.

I am an elected Fellow on the BAOMS Council and Deputy Lead of the Skin Subspecialty Interest Group of BAOMS.  I am also the newly elected UK Representative to the IAOMS and wish to promote diversity, inclusion, and greater collaboration with our international colleagues.

My interests outside of work include world travel and philanthropy.

Dr. Jocelyn Shand

Australia

I am the Head of the OMS Program at the Royal Children’s Hospital (RCH) of Melbourne and a Clinical Associate Professor in the Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne. 

I have been honoured to become Vice-President Elect of the IAOMS after serving as the Oceania Representative for six years, a member of the Education Committee, which included involvement with podcasts, and as part of the team involved in organising the Melbourne ICOMS in 2015, Deputy Chair of the local organising committee.

I have previously served as the President of the Australian & New Zealand Association of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons (ANZAOMS) and have enjoyed being involved in surgical training for many years, as well as post-graduate sub-specialty training for a Paediatric OMS fellowship at the RCH hospital since 2007.  In the Australasian College, there have been several roles, including Chair of the Board of Studies for OMS for four years.  Training is one of the most important foundations of every surgical specialty, and the introduction of new technologies will continue to evolve our practice over time.

I undertook OMS training in Melbourne followed by two years of experience in the USA, including the Paediatric Fellowship in Pittsburgh. I have been an advocate for promoting the subspecialty of paediatric OMS, as the care and treatment of these patients will often have a life-long impact.  Areas of interest include the management of maxillary cleft and cleft skeletal deformities, paediatric maxillofacial pathology, and upper airway obstruction.

I also have a private practice that manages patients of all ages.

Melbourne, Victoria, is now my home, but I enjoy any opportunity to return to my homeland of New Zealand and to the South Island, which is an extraordinary place.

Dr. Ana Luiza Leal

Brazil

Claudine Bussolaro

I currently work as a clinical staff member at the largest hospital in my city, Vitoria, in Brazil.  I also run my own private clinic and am a university lecturer in head and neck surgery and anatomy.

My main interests are orthognathic surgery and the subject of my doctoral thesis, temporomandibular joint disorders. I am an enthusiastic student in this area and have delved into minimally invasive and regenerative procedures.

I love exchanging knowledge. That's why I constantly receive invitations to attend congresses and give lectures at meetings. I will soon be speaking at the largest congress in Latin America, the Brazilian Congress of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery.

I feel extremely fulfilled with the routine I've achieved. But a milestone in my professional life was undoubtedly the fellowship I had the opportunity to do at the University Hospital in Basel, Switzerland. An unforgettable experience!

Well, outside of surgery, I'm a mother of a beautiful 12-year-old girl, I love sports - I've taken part in many triathlons and marathons, and I've also been a skydiving athlete. I love music, jazz, and bossa nova, and I also play the piano and guitar.

Dr. Yeshaswini Thelekkat

India

I am a Consultant Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon at Sree Gokulam Medical College Hospital & Research Foundation and Professor, Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery PMS College of Dental Science and Research, Trivandrum.

I completed my residency in 2004 at a time AO CMF had started making its presence in India and that exposed a whole gamut of knowledge and skills needed to adapt to the advances happening. It opened opportunities to network with world-renowned surgeons and an opportunity for an international fellowship at Ludwig Maximillian Universitat, Munich in 2012. I learned more, unlearned some, and relearned to achieve better patient outcomes. Resources and courses from international associations like AO CMF and IAOMS have helped me hone myself professionally so that I could contribute better as an educator.

My areas of surgical interest are Craniomaxillofacial trauma, Temporomandibular joint disorders,
Skeletal deformity correction, and Pathologies.

I am an active AO CMF Regional faculty member from India and have contributed to various courses in India and the Asia Pacific region. I am fortunate to be appointed as an adjunct member, Community Development Commission, AO CMF Asia Pacific, in recognition of my contributions at the community level. I have been able to represent IAOMS as faculty recently in  Dubai. I am grateful and feel privileged to be on the Scientific Committee team for ICOMS 2025 on behalf of IAOMS. I have been actively involved in the various educational and social awareness campaign initiatives of the Association of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons of India (AOMSI) as an invited speaker and on the organising front. I have served two consecutive terms as Executive Committee Member member for our prestigious organisation. Presently, I am Chairperson, AOMSI Prevention of Sexual Harassment Committee.

I am fortunate to have had opportunities to travel, learn, and even work overseas. During my tenure as a faculty member of the International Medical University (IMU), Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, I was honoured with an appreciation award from the students as Best Educator in 2018. My greatest professional achievement will always be the immeasurable love and gratitude I receive from my patients, to whom I am truly indebted.

Outside of surgery, I love to work out to stay fit and healthy, and I paint through my stress. I am intuitive about psychological distress and offer counselling support and solutions.

Dr. Emma Lewis

Australia

Claudine Bussolaro

I am very fortunate with my work to hold both a teaching position within the
Government Health Service and work in private practice.
I am in practice with two other colleagues in South Perth and hold a consultant position at Fiona Stanley Hospital, a large teaching hospital south of Perth that is one of the major centres for training in OMFS.

Before my work in Perth, I spent 12 years in the USA at the University of Florida,
Gainesville. Initially, this was time spent finishing my training, and I then progressed to become a full-time faculty member. I was promoted to Clinical Associate Professor and was also the Residency Director before returning to Australia.

My areas of interest include orthognathic and TMJ surgery, where often these
patients have combined problems. I also enjoy implantology and benign pathology.
My real passion is teaching, and I am currently the Director of Training for OMFS in WA. Being able to mentor and support trainees throughout their journey is a real privilege, which also comes with added responsibilities and commitments. I am heavily involved with the Royal Australasian College of Dental Surgeons, which is the organisation that oversees OMFS training in Australia and New Zealand. This has allowed me to become a member and chair of multiple committees, which has been both educational and rewarding to think that you are contributing to the future of the specialty. It also represents a regular opportunity to network with colleagues from different states within Australia and New Zealand, which is beneficial when we are a relatively small, geographically isolated group.

I also had the opportunity, whilst at the University of Florida, to work at the Centre for Implantology with some amazing colleagues who supported me to become a Fellow with the International Team for Implantology. This global organisation has a huge focus on providing quality education and again has allowed me to make many great
friendships across the world. I am proud to be moderating a session at the upcoming World Symposium in Singapore.

I also enjoy volunteering and have been a part of trips to the Philippines, Nicaragua , and Cambodia. Locally, I am part of an organisation called Healing Smiles, which provides care to women who have experienced domestic violence. There is no greater reward than being able to help people in this way. To try to maintain good physical and mental health, I swim regularly, and my latest interest is open-water swimming. We have such a beautiful coastline here in Western Australia, which makes it very enticing. There is an annual marathon swim event here in Western Australia, which is 19.7km from the mainland to Rottnest Island, which I have now completed twice as a solo competitor. That makes for a lot of time to clear your mind!

Dr. Sabrina Ng

Singapore

I am privileged to have a position as a Consultant and Clinical Assistant Professor in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery serving Singapore’s largest healthcare cluster -  Singapore Health Services. This cluster serves several of our major hospitals, namely Singapore General Hospital, Changi General Hospital, Sengkang General Hospital and Kandang Kerbau Women's and Children's Hospital. I am also a consultant at the  National Dental Centre Singapore, the largest specialist oral healthcare centre in the country.

Before this, I had gained much experience working in various hospitals around the country, including the National University Hospital System, Alexandra Hospital, Jurong General Hospital (renamed Ng Teng Fong Hospital), and both SingHealth Polyclinics and National Healthcare Group Polyclinics.

I have a keen interest in maxillofacial trauma surgery and believe that virtual surgical planning is the way forward to provide an improved standard of care for maxillofacial trauma patients. I am also heavily involved in the Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery residency program in Singapore, and conduct training for the young Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons in the country.

Besides my clinical work, I enjoy serving as the vice president of the Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Singapore. I was in the planning committee of the Asian Congress of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery 2022, and now serve in the Education Committee of the International Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons. I hope this will allow me to greater influence other female OMFS in the country and internationally, and perhaps inspire more women to join this noble profession. I am also involved in the Ensure Safer Systems programme, which is a collaboration between Joint Commission International and the Singapore Ministry of Health, as the co-chairperson representing the National Dental Centre Singapore.

Prior to the 2020 Global Pandemic (COVID), I was an avid traveler, and prided myself on having visited 5 of the 7 continents in 2019 alone. I am also an amateur photographer and enjoy taking photographs on my travels. As a new mother of a beautiful baby boy, my focus is now on how to create a better tomorrow for our next generation—not only improving medicine, but also protecting the environment.

Dr. Niveditha N

India

Claudine Bussolaro

In celebration of International Women's Day, I am delighted to share my personal journey, navigating the enriching training pathway as a woman Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon in India.

 I am currently an Assistant professor in the department of Oral and maxillofacial surgery at VS Dental College and Hospital in Bangalore, India. Embarking on my journey, I laid the foundation with a BDS degree in VS dental college. The pursuit of specialisation led me to an MDS program, delving into the intricacies of oral and maxillofacial surgery at the Bangalore Institute of Dental Sciences.

Over 3 years of intense training, I honed my skills in diverse surgical procedures, from trauma cases to orthognathic surgeries. Seeking excellence, I undertook postgraduate training, focusing on cosmetic and reconstructive aspects at the Smile Train Unit and Aesthetics Unit at Bhagwan Mahaveer Jain Hospital, Bangalore. Pursuing excellence in rehabilitation, I got certified in Dental Implantology at the Bangalore Institute of Dental Sciences through rigorous coursework, including hands-on training in surgical techniques and prosthetic restoration. I also stay updated on the latest advancements in implant dentistry, ensuring a comprehensive skill set for optimal patient care.

My areas of surgical interest are maxillofacial trauma, dental implantology, orthognathic surgeries, temporomandibular joint surgeries, and the management of benign tumors. I am dedicated to advancing surgical knowledge, and my research interests lie in exploring innovative techniques and technologies. My inquisitive nature and analytical mindset drive a continuous pursuit of excellence in surgical research.

Engaging with the Indian Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons (AOMSI) and international forums, I embraced collaboration and ongoing learning. I have also presented papers and posters at national conferences and have always been committed to continuous learning and upskilling through relevant courses, workshops, and staying informed about emerging trends.

Actively participating in mentorship programs, I find joy in guiding aspiring professionals and contributing to a supportive community. Currently, I have the privilege of being a part of the IAOMS NextGen Council, contributing to positive changes on an international scale. Embracing community outreach, I am passionate about oral health education, striving to inspire the next generation of healthcare professionals.

Beyond the surgical realm, I am passionate about hiking, wildlife conservation, exploring new cuisines, fitness, and learning new cultures, I leverage these interests to maintain a balanced and well-rounded lifestyle.

Dr. Lisa Crighton

Australia

I work as an Oral and Maxillofacial surgeon in private practice in South Melbourne, 3 km from the centre of Melbourne in Victoria, Australia.

I completed my specialist training in OMFS in Melbourne, after which I traveled to Nova Scotia, Canada, to complete a 6-month fellowship at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in 2004. Dr. Archie Morrison and Dr. Ben Davis helped me refine my surgical skills and further my interest in Orthognathic, and dental implant surgery. Following on from this fellowship, I spent 6 months with Mr. David Koppel at the Southern General Hospital in Glasgow, United Kingdom. It was here that my Stryker Leibinger Fellowship in Facial Trauma trained me in the management of complex facial injuries, including NOE and Le fort III fractures. The next 5 years of practice were in a large group practice where I had excellent mentorship. I opened my solo practice, South Melbourne Maxillofacial Surgery, in 2009.

My specific areas of surgical interest remain in Orthognathic surgery and, more recently, full arch dental rehabilitation, working closely with my Prosthodontic colleagues. I have found full arch rehabilitation to be extremely rewarding, helping patients with crumbling dentitions be restored to full function

After spending 2 years as an assistant Registrar, in 2023 I was appointed as the Registrar in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery for the Royal Australasian College of Dental Surgeons. This role involves triannual meetings with the Board of Studies in OMS, chairing the examination committee, and participating in other committee meetings that report to the Board to manage the training of the future of OMS, the ongoing accreditation of the OMS training program, and the CPD of its fellows. I am also involved in the accreditation of specialists at Ramsay Private Hospitals as a member of the medical advisory committee for two of its hospitals.

Professionally, I have spent over 6 years as the secretary and chair of the Victorian Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons and worked for over 16 years as an OMS supervisor of training, providing education to our Victorian OMS trainees, and care to public patients at the Royal Melbourne Hospital.

Outside of OMS, I am the proud mother of a mountain biking 14-year-old, and I often spend weekends on the side of a “mountain” marshaling or volunteering. My own personal interests include Pilates, real estate, wine, and running.

Dr. Kavita Sharma

India
Kavita Sharma

I am currently serving in India’s renowned oncology hospital, Mazumdar Shaw Medical Center (Narayan Healthcare) in Bangalore, India, under Dr. Moni Kuriakose sir and Dr. Vijay Pillai. I have assisted in several microvascular surgeries, including ALT FLAP, FREE FIBULA FLAP, RADIAL FOREARM FLAP, and SCAPULAR FLAP, with wide exposure to oral cancer cases, maxillofacial trauma, orthognathic surgeries, implantology, and minor oral surgical procedures.

I completed my Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) from People’s Dental Academy, Bhopal (2013 -2018) Gold Medalist with Distinction Holder and a First Division Pass and Rank Holder.

I completed my Master of Dental Surgery (M.D.S.) – Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, at Bharati Vidyapeeth Dental College and Hospital in Sangli, Maharashtra (2020-2023) where I secured a first rank in college and a Gold Medal.

I have actively conducted and moderated several Oral Health Educational Programme, and webinars on Oral Cancer. I also conducted an Oral Health Camp in a Juvenile Prison and was Certified for the same.

 I have attended several National Surgical Conferences with presentations on “Osteomyelitis of Maxilla” at AOMSI Conference Mangalore (2021), “Radicular Cyst” at MIDCOMS 2021, “Ackermann Tumour” at AOMSI Conference Indore (2022), “Maxillofacial Surgical deformities” organized by School of Dental Sciences, KIMSDU, Karad and AO CMF seminar on ORAL ONCOLOGY.

I actively participated in several Hands-on workshops which included Orthognathic, Basal Implantology, and Karyashala for 7 days in Gujarat Oral Cancer and Micro-vascular surgery in Kidwai Bangalore India.

I have undergone Observership in Head and Neck Oncology at Tata Memorial Hospital Mumbai, and Cleft and Craniofacial Plastic Surgery at GSR Institute Hyderabad. I have a certificate for the same.

Academically, I have Several Publications on my name in Scopus and UGC-indexed journals including articles on oral carcinoma, oral pathology, orthognathic surgery, etc., a book on Syndromes of Head and Neck, and a Chapter in advances in oral cancer-drug delivery system in Cancer Immunotherapy.

I am a linguaphile and have learned foreign languages like French and various Indian languages as well.

I am also a wanderer and love trying different authentic cuisines.

Dr. Nigar Sultanova

Azerbaijan

I am engaged in surgery, scientific work and teaching in three languages, holding
the position of associate professor in the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery at the Azerbaijan Medical University, Baku. I consider it a great success to work at the alma mater, which I graduated with honors in 1995, and where I completed my residency.

I successfully defended PhD dissertation and got MD.Ph.D. degree in 2000, at the
intersection of several specialties - maxillofacial and plastic surgery, psychology and anthropology, also received the position of assistant to the department. In 2003-2004, I passed fellowship in plastic surgery at the Plastic Surgery Science Institute (ONEP) in
Istanbul under the guidance of Professor Onur Erol. In 2012, I was appointed as a Associate Professor of the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery at AMU.

I am also a board certified plastic surgeon. My surgical interest covers the restoration of proportion, harmony, symmetry and relief in the elimination of congenital and acquired facial deformities, during aesthetic and reconstructive operations of the craniofacial complex.

During the years 2000 to 2005, I was involved in an international project that
studied the anthropometric parameters of the faces of 26 ethnic groups/races under the leadership of Professor Leslie Farkas. The largest comparative database of facial anthropometric parameters in the world was published, in the Journal of Craniofacial Surgery, in 2005.

Author of over 73 scientific publications with a citation index surpassing 900. Member of several societies in oral and maxillofacial surgery (AzOMS), (IAOMS) since 2000, plastic surgery (ISAPS), (?PRAS) since 2007, and anthropology (EAA) since 1999.

I'm consistently an invited speaker and participant in international conferences, congresses and advanced training courses.

Anthropology is what I enjoy as a hobby. My passion for jazz and ballet since
childhood makes my life interesting and vibrant. Daily walks in the fresh air and swimming are part of my life and it allows me to keep myself in shape.

Dr. Indradewi Sutikno

Indonesia
Kavita Sharma

I'm an oral maxillofacial surgeon from Jogjakarta, Indonesia. In 2014, I completed my oral and maxillofacial surgery training at the Dentistry Faculty of Gadjah Mada University in Indonesia.

After a year working at a private clinic, I was recognized as a civil staff member of the Ministry of Health Republic Indonesia in 2015. I have since been working at Dr. Sarjito Hospital, an academic hospital in the province. In our oral and maxillofacial surgery department, I am particularly interested in tumor and orthognatic surgery. I contribute to hospital policy by serving on the medical committee and advocating for palliative care.

I always think of my career and service as a pilgrimage; there is time to strive, endure, and celebrate. Patient satisfaction has been my personal triumph thus far, particularly among those in the palliative period. It has been an honor to observe both good quality of life and good quality of 'leaving' rather than just death.

I am also interested in robotic surgery, and I am grateful that during my orthognatic surgery fellowship in Vienna, under Dr. Gabriele Millesi's supervision, I was able to participate in a surgery team with the first autonomy surgery robot CARLO® and witness the evolution of robotic technology for humans. I find this intriguing since hazardous situations like as pandemics, disasters, or any hazardous sequences may arise suddenly, making medical services by humans less likely to be optimally delivered. Robots can be a good value as a lengthened armed surgeon.

Outside of work, it's necessary to celebrate the day, whether it's good or terrible. Walking and playing saxophone are my favorite ways to celebrate and recharge, pushing myself to new limits. I believe that the best things begin with the simplest things. Family and friends are the best part of the celebration since they provide an excellent support system.

I've always enjoyed traveling and learning about the culture and cuisine; it's like an adventure that always leads me to learn new things, particularly the wisdom behind the culture.

Prof. Fadekemi O. Oginni

Nigeria

I am a Professor of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery at the Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Nigeria and a Consultant Maxillofacial Surgeon at the University Teaching Hospital.

I graduated from the College of Health Sciences, Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, and completed my internship at the Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospitals Complex (OAUTHC). I then volunteered with the National Youth Service Corps at the Murtala Mohammed Specialist Hospital Kano for one year and worked as a Dental Officer at the Government Dental Center, Zaria Road under the Kano State Health Management Board for two years.

I completed my residency Training Program at the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospitals Complex. I earned a Fellowship of the National Postgraduate Medical College of Nigeria and the West African College of Surgeons by Examinations.

Thereafter, I joined the services of Obafemi Awolowo University / Teaching Hospital Complex as a Lecturer I and Honorary Consultant, respectively. I rose through the rank to the grade of full Professor and remain in the services of both institutions till date.

My interests in Maxillofacial Surgery (practice and research) include: Dentoalveolar Surgery, Maxillofacial Trauma (Mechanism of injury, Treatment and Prevention), and Cleft lip and Palate Surgery. I am a Smile Train partner.

I pursued my keen interest in teaching; and earned a Master’s degree in Health Professions Education (MHPE) at the University of Illinois Chicago in 2020.

I am a recipient of nine distinctions and awards: DAAD Scholar - 2005; American Cleft Palate Craniofacial Association Visiting Scholar - 2010; and WHO mentor Mentee Awardee (focusing on Injury prevention in Nigeria)- 2014, Stecker Scholar Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus Ohio USA (2015)

I have been engaged in numerous services that contributed to the field of OMFS, including the Head of Department OMFS at OAU and OAUTHC Ile Ife (2008-2011 and 2020-2023), Editor-in-Chief of the Nigerian Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery (2016-2020), Associate Editor, Frontier in Oral Health (2021 till date), Co- Chair of the International Outreach Committee of the ACPA (2015), Member of the International Outreach Committee of the American Cleft and Palate Association (ACPA) (April 2011-2014), Board member, Obafemi Awolowo University Post Graduate College (2012 -2022), Secretary, Nigerian Association for Cleft lip and Palate (2007 to 2009), Assistant Secretary, Nigerian Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons (2005-2007), Board Member, National Postgraduate Medical College Faculty of Dental Surgery (

Currently, I serve as the President, the Nigerian Association for Cleft Lip and Palate. I am also an elected Fellow and senate member on the International Board for Certification of Specialists in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery (IBCSOMS).

I am a passionate undergraduate and postgraduate educator, supervising thesis at the undergraduate and postgraduate levels, and reviewing manuscripts for over 30 scientific journals locally and internationally.

I have contributed a chapter each to two books, and have published 2 lectures, and 90 scientific papers in local and international journals.

I have scores of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery (OMFS) related speaking experiences locally and internationally.

Outside of OMFS, I love singing and listening to music.

TBA

Kavita Sharma