The program was implemented by Operation Smile Viet Nam in coordination with Military Hospital 175, the 108 Military Central Hospital, and a team of specialists from the Smile for Children organization of the Republic of Korea (RoK).

According to Operation Smile Viet Nam, nearly 70 children underwent screening examinations, of whom 25 met the eligibility criteria and received free surgery.

Vietnamese and RoK doctors perform free surgery on children with maxillofacial defects in Ho Chi Minh City. (Photo: Operation Smile Viet Nam)

The program accepted children with untreated cleft lips and cleft palates, as well as those suffering from complications such as lip scarring, palatal fistulas and nasal deformities, and children with congenital ptosis.

The initiative also provided an opportunity for Vietnamese and RoK doctors to exchange professional knowledge and share experience in plastic and maxillofacial surgery.

Previously, from September 25 to 27, the Viet Nam Smile Surgery Center, together with a team of medical experts and with support from Sika Viet Nam, organized a surgical program at Buon Ma Thuot University of Medicine and Pharmacy Hospital in Dak Lak Province. Over the three days, 197 patients received medical examinations and consultations, and 107 underwent surgery.

In Hanoi, Operation Smile Viet Nam is continuing to coordinate with the Viet Nam Smile Surgery Center and the Viet Nam-Cuba Friendship Hospital to organize another free surgical program in October 2026. Screening examinations took place on October 12 at the Viet Nam-Cuba Friendship Hospital, located at 37 Hai Ba Trung Street, Cua Nam Ward. Eligible patients will undergo surgery from October 13 to 16.

Residents can contact Operation Smile Viet Nam's hotline at 090 488 5555 for consultation and further information about the program.

Free surgery provided for nearly 200 children with cleft lip and cleft palate

Free surgery for children with harelip and cleft palate in Mekong Delta