Case Study: Sharp Memorial Hospital achieves life-changing facial reconstruction for Blessing Makwera with 3D Systems' Virtual Surgical Planning and 3D printing

Kindness, Surgical Skills and 3D Technologies Help Bring Back a Smile for Blessing Makwera

3D Systems partnered with Operation of Hope and Sharp Memorial Hospital to help Blessing Makwera, a young man from Zimbabwe who suffered devastating facial injuries from a land‑mine detonator. The challenge was a complex, time‑sensitive reconstruction of his upper and lower jaws—planned and executed within four days of his arrival in San Diego.

Using its Virtual Surgical Planning (VSP®) services and stereolithography 3D printers, 3D Systems produced patient‑specific models, cutting guides and plate‑bending templates from Blessing’s CT scans so surgeons could pre‑plan and rehearse the fibula free flap procedure. The 12‑hour reconstruction and subsequent implant surgery restored jaw function and a natural smile; Blessing now speaks, eats and studies college while working to support himself.

Sharp Memorial Hospital

Mike Rensberger

Sharp Memorial Hospital