Aug 1, 2025
In recognition of July’s National Cleft and Craniofacial Awareness and Prevention Month, ABOMS is proud to highlight the extraordinary work of our Diplomates.
Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons have a lasting impact on the lives of cleft and craniofacial patients. To ensure future success in the subspecialty, it is essential for residents to consider advanced training.
Our Diplomates provided a word of advice for surgeons who are considering this career path...
Dr. Rachel Bishop
“For residents considering a career in cleft and craniofacial care, my advice is to embrace the opportunity to make a meaningful, lifelong impact on patients and families through truly interdisciplinary, patient-centered work. This subspecialty requires commitment, collaboration, and compassion, but the rewards are profound, as you help children grow, thrive, and gain confidence over time through the care and relationships you build.”
Dr. Carlo Guevara
“I would tell residents that this is one of the best subspecialities available in our specialty. There is nothing that compares to the gifts that you can give to children affected with cleft lip and palate. I think that cleft and craniofacial surgery are a beautiful blend of artistry and skill.”
Dr. Reynaldo Rivera
“You’ve got this! Believing in yourself and your training, and that there aren’t any craniofacial problems you can’t tackle. I’ve seen some really talented young Pediatric Cleft and Craniofacial Surgeons coming out of the training pipeline in recent years. And I can say that now that I’m one of the “old guys” in this field. I can also say that without a doubt, the future of our specialty is in great hands.”
Dr. Suzanne Barnes
“Reach out to people who have chosen this as their career and ask them to be a mentor! We have all had mentors who helped us get to where we are today and I know so many of us are happy to mentor residents with a similar interest.”
Dr. David Gailey
“It is a wonderful and rewarding subspeciality. It is very demanding and requires significant effort and attention to details, but the personal rewards are amazing.”