Face implant story

In May, a 38-year old woman was attacked by her labrador-mix dog, while she was alseep or drugged out on tranquiliers (suicide undetermined) and stepped on the dog. After losing part of her nose, chin and mouth, she tried to lead a regular life but was frustrated with being teased and taunted despite the surgical mask that covered her scars. She followed the regular advisory path for transplant patients (ie psychological testing, information, future health concerns) before French doctors to perform the world's first partial face transplant in late November. The patient appears to be recovering well. Yet, critics, including the National Consultative Ethics Committee (Comité consultatif national d’éthique - CCNE) and doctors working on the technique, believe that the surgery was premature for both medical and psychological reasons and should not have been conducted. The ethics committee had rejected a full facial transplant but left open the option of a partial transplant.

Another media ball game is in play. Doctors tried to keep her identity unknown but the British and French press revealed photos from before, during and after the operation.

A few takes:
- NPR
- NYT "Ethical Concerns on Face Transplant Grow"
- Apparently reports that the donor (who had to have the face removed before she was taken off ventilators) was brain dead because she tried to hang herself might not be true.
- Dr. Dubernard - also a French member of parliament - defends his team's stance.

On a personal note: I find that the dog part of the story seems flaky. Labs are supposed to be the sweetest dogs - maybe it was mixed with a Belgian shepherd? Can people stop making fun of the fact that I am afraid of chihuahuas? The dog was put to sleep and, apparently, the woman bought a smaller dog.