Face Transplantation

Abstract

Facial transplantation is no longer a science fiction; it is a science fact. The 28 transplants that were performed between 2005 and 2014 appear to have yielded mainly positive functional, psychological, aesthetic, and immunological outcomes for the recipients. This nevertheless remains a significant intervention, which gives rise to three sorts of ethical concerns. First, the welfare of the recipient merits careful consideration. The issues here include those concerning quality of life, as well as the risks associated with immunosuppression and the possible failure of the graft. Secondly, the autonomy and identity of the recipients raise important questions, not least about the selection of such patients. Of particular significance here are concerns about informed consent, capacity, age, and any psychological effects on the recipient. Finally, there are the broader societal dimensions to consider. Is facial transplantation in the public interest? Certainly, the interests of the donor, and his or her family, are important considerations, but there also arise wider questions about cost and also regarding societal attitudes to disfigurement and difference. Although ultimately defensible in principle, facial transplantation merits ongoing scrutiny to ensure that appropriate ethical standards are always met.