Stephanie’s Story

Stephanie is a happy 6 year old who likes to sing, dance and play. It wasn't always easy for her to do these things.

She was born with a large hemangioma on her right cheek. Other people made comments like "what is that?", "what's wrong with her?" and "she looks so ugly". These statements were both hurtful and frustrating fro Stephanie's mother as she also had to deal with a language barrier.

Doctors first told them that Stephanie had a tumor which was never the case and was then finally referred to the Institute of Reconstructive Plastic Surgery Vascular Anomalies Team. After several surgeries, Stephanie's results far surpassed her mom's dreams. "If I could refer anyone for treatment by the best physicians who really do care, I would refer them to only one place, and that place is here at NYU Medical Center."

Stephanie is now accepted for who she is rather than rejected for her facial imperfection.