Opération Sourire is one of Doctors of the World's key international missions.

Our teams work around the world providing free surgical operations to children who suffer from cleft lip/palates, bear congenital deformities or who have been left scarred by the effects of war. The scars aren't only physical; they often suffer terrible social exclusion too. A simple surgical operation can put a smile back on their faces and allow them to lead a normal and healthy life, rejoining the society that once rejected them.

The second objective of Opération Sourire missions is to train and share techniques with local medical staff in country. This allows local medical professonals to build up a shared knowledge-base, and to continue carrying out procedures after Doctors of the World staff have left. For over 20 years, surgeons from around the world have volunteered for Opération Sourire. In 2009 we were able to send surgical teams on 22 missions to 8 countries across the developing world.

Because our highly skilled volunteers give their time and often the equipment for free, it is a very cost effective mission, and shows very clear and quick results. Click here to find out different ways in which you can support Doctors of the World UK. Just imagine the difference  you could make.

Click here to read our latest Opération Sourire annual report for 2009.