Bengaluru: In the quiet hallways of Mallige Hospital in Bengaluru, a different kind of healing has been unfolding—not just of bones and skin, but of identity, dignity, and humanity. Far from home, 32 Ethiopian soldiers arrived here carrying the weight of war on their faces—injuries that distorted not just their appearance but also their ability to speak, eat, or even smile.
Dr. Srinath N, an unassuming maxillofacial surgeon: At the centre of this extraordinary story is Dr. Srinath N, an unassuming maxillofacial surgeon whose career has taken him across continents, from operating rooms in Asia and Africa to academic forums in Europe. Yet, he says, “Nothing quite prepares you for the moment someone looks at their reflection after a life-changing surgery—and finally sees hope.”
The Call That Changed Lives: It began with a call from the Ethiopian Government, a desperate appeal to help soldiers severely injured in the Ethiopian conflict. Dr. Srinath, who had worked extensively in East Africa, was not just a logical choice—he was a trusted ally.
A rare international medical mission rooted in compassion: He responded with a firm yes, and Mallige Hospital became ground zero for a rare international medical mission rooted in compassion. A formal partnership followed. A Memorandum of Understanding was signed, and plans were drawn to bring the soldiers to India in small batches. Each journey was not only a logistical undertaking—it was a leap of faith.
Rebuilding Faces, Restoring Lives: The injuries these men carried were not simple. Shattered cheekbones, lost jawlines, damaged eye sockets—each case required advanced surgical interventions that combined reconstructive art with medical science.
You’re rebuilding a life: Before every procedure, Dr. Srinath would examine 3D scans, mapping out the most delicate paths through bone and tissue. “Surgery is science, yes,” he says. “But in these cases, it’s also deeply personal. You’re not just reconstructing a face—you’re rebuilding a life.” Procedures included bone grafts using parts of the patient’s own body, titanium implants, soft tissue reconstruction, and intricate microvascular surgeries. Many operations were performed in a single sitting, minimising trauma and maximising recovery.
The Human Side of Surgery: Behind the Scenes, the hospital came alive with quiet determination. Nurses became cultural translators, often learning simple phrases in Tigrinya or Amharic to comfort patients. The dietary team adjusted meal plans to suit unfamiliar palates. A rehabilitation team worked with patients on speech and mobility. One of the most vital members of the entourage was Dr. Solomon, a liaison from Ethiopia who became a bridge between two worlds. “They were anxious, far from home, some had never left their country before,” he said. “But here, they felt respected. They felt seen.”
From Silence to Laughter: Post-surgery, transformations were visible and visceral. Where once sat silence, now came voices learning to speak again. Where once eyes averted from mirrors, now they held a cautious but growing pride. Laughter returned to lips that had forgotten how to smile. “I can chew now,” said one soldier, softly but clearly, through a healing jaw.
For the first time in a year, I can sleep without pain: Another added, “For the first time in a year, I can sleep without pain.” Each patient underwent intensive follow-ups and care. By the end of their treatment, most were able to eat comfortably, breathe without obstruction, and speak without strain. But the greatest healing was emotional. “When someone rediscovers their reflection, you see something sacred—a soul reawakening,” said a nurse who was part of the team.
A Blueprint for Compassion: This wasn’t just a medical milestone. It was a lesson in global partnership. A government, a hospital, a surgeon, and an army of caregivers came together—not for fame or fortune—but for healing.
Borders may divide us, but empathy unites us: “This is what medicine should be,” said Dr. Srinath. “Borders may divide us, but empathy unites us. We treated them not as foreign nationals, but as human beings in need.” As the final group of soldiers prepares to return to Ethiopia, they leave not just with new faces but with a renewed belief in humanity.
Sidebar: The Man Behind the Mission Dr. Srinath N, the chief surgeon behind this initiative, is no stranger to humanitarian work. With decades of experience in oral and maxillofacial surgery, he has led missions in disaster-hit zones, trained surgeons across continents, and been a vocal advocate for access to advanced surgical care in underserved regions.
Quote to Remember: “This was never just about fixing bones. It was about helping people reclaim their confidence, their voices, their lives.” — Dr. Srinath N
-Dr Harshini K
Manager, Clinical Services
Mallige Hospital Bengaluru
Beautifull written. Thank you Mallige Hospital and Dr Srinath for you service to humanity!
ReplyDeleteOne of the best written article on medical sub.
DeleteHealing beyond borders
Very apt title
Congrats
Gm Shirahatti retired director doordarshan
"I am utterly captivated by the extraordinary tale of the Indian hospital, Mallige Hospital in Bangalore. where skilled surgeons, led by the incomparable Dr. Srinath Sir, my revered mentor and teacher, are transforming the lives of Ethiopian soldiers. Their remarkable work in facial reconstruction surgery is a shining testament to the power of human compassion, medical ingenuity, and unwavering dedication.
DeleteDr. Srinath Sir's leadership and expertise are the driving forces behind this mission, and I am deeply humbled to call him my mentor. His tireless enthusiasm, unrelenting passion for healing, and commitment to giving others a second chance at life are qualities that inspire me every day. His selflessness, precision, and artistry in the operating room are a true marvel, and I feel incredibly fortunate to have the opportunity to learn from him.
The impact of their work extends far beyond the realm of surgery; it is a beacon of hope, a symbol of humanity's capacity for kindness, and a reminder that even in the darkest moments, there are angels like Dr. Srinath Sir who illuminate the path to healing and redemption."
Lt Col Dr Shashikala Honnahalli .
Such a well written piece!
ReplyDeleteThank you Dr Srinath:)
"Kudos to the talented writer who penned this breathtaking article about the Indian hospital's remarkable work in restoring faces and futures of Ethiopian soldiers! The way they've woven the story is truly captivating.
DeleteAs someone who's had the privilege of witnessing Dr. Srinath Sir's exceptional surgical skills firsthand, I'm not surprised by the incredible work he's leading. His dedication, passion, and expertise are a constant source of inspiration for me. What's remarkable is that while I've had the chance to see him work his magic in person, this article brings his remarkable story to a wider audience. Thank you !
Dr. Srinath has always been an incredible human being and a phenomenal surgeon. This article truly captures the depth of his work and humility. Proud of him always.
ReplyDeleteBeautifully written on an extraordinary strange subject.
ReplyDeleteWow... Hats off to everyone. Quote in the end summarised whole success.
ReplyDeleteGreat work by Dr.Srinath & team and a beautifully summarised article.
ReplyDeleteUnassuming Oral Surgeon, Truly yes , Great Work Sir, 🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏💐💐💐💐💐
ReplyDeleteThis transcends borders , bridges geographical divides as well as cultural and language barriers what is possible by reconstructive surgeons' team generates immeasurable goodwill for India, Dr Srinath deserve all blessings for their efforts.one forgets war is aghastly business the soldiers are the victims .to be able to see one's face in the mirror and not be rendered distraught by the horrific image of a mutilated face , one's own.to be able to salvage that and bring back normalcy is a divine effort.God Bless all of you.
ReplyDeleteDr Srinath is a humble yet extremely skilled and ethical surgeon. I am honoured to have been associated with him for over three decades. His knowledge, skill and entrepreneurship are amazing. Kudos to mallige medical center also for such impactful work.
ReplyDeleteDr Srinath is a humble yet extremely skilled and ethical surgeon. I am honoured to have been associated with him for over three decades. His knowledge, skill and entrepreneurship are amazing. Kudos to mallige medical center also for such impactful work.
ReplyDelete