Operation Smile bases its work on three models. The first, international medical missions, that bring physicians from countries like the U.S. to perform cleft surgeries in developing countries. The second the local medical missions that employ local physicians through partnerships and strive to develop an infrastructure to enable local entities to sustain the work. The final the comprehensive care centers, which provide services for patients year-round and offer some reconstructive surgery procedures. So far, the organization has established eight centers in seven different countries, with plans to establish two more in Ethiopia and India.

Last year, Operation Smile carried out more than 175 medical missions around the globe, treating more than 16,000 children. Two-thirds of the missions were completed through the local medical mission model, a top priority for the organization, says Ayala.

Through its missions, Operation Smile strives to go beyond just providing surgical procedures. It aims to deliver "a full package" by working with the in-country medical and non-medical team, explains Ayala. The organization focuses on creating legal entities and boards of directors and engaging with local business and social leaders. By working out logistical details and providing support, Operation Smile seeks to build a strong enough infrastructure to continue the medical mission after the team leaves the country.

The majority of the organization's funding comes from individual contributions and 10 percent stems from corporate donors.

The organization encourages both medical and non-medical volunteers to contribute their time and skills to its efforts - last year, more than 6,000 people did. Still, the need for more surgeries is overwhelming. Children with cleft conditions in regions of Sub-Saharan Africa, India and China are awaiting help, says Ayala.

For Ayala, the mission of Operation Smile is at the root of his life's work.

"For me, when I went to medical school, it was very simple why I wanted to do it," he says. "It was because I wanted to come back with Operation Smile as a physician and hopefully put a little of my energy and my life into something that is worthwhile. I don't think many people get the chance to realize at the age of 17 that it's what they want to do."

Help for Haiti
While Operation Smile works with children, the global need for cleft procedures for people of all ages is extensive. Dr. Seth Thaller, chief surgeon and professor, division of plastic surgery with the University of Miami Health System, knows that Haiti, the poorest country in the Western Hemisphere, is no exception. He has completed several charitable medical missions to the country, accompanied by a team of about 18 to 25 professionals and medical students.

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