Prof. Henry C. Vásconez is an esteemed plastic surgeon with over four decades of clinical and academic experience. He completed his medical degree at Central University in Quito, Ecuador, followed by general surgery training at the University of Illinois and plastic surgery residency at Emory University in Atlanta. To further refine his expertise, he pursued a Craniofacial and Pediatric Plastic Surgery fellowship at the International Craniofacial Institute in Texas. Dr. Vásconez is board-certified in both General and Plastic Surgery and has specialized in craniofacial reconstruction, cleft palate repair, pediatric plastic surgery, and complex reconstructive procedures.

Dr. Vásconez has had a distinguished academic career at the University of Kentucky, where he served as Chief of the Division of Plastic Surgery and Director of the Plastic Surgery Residency Program. He was the inaugural holder of the William S. Farish Endowed Chair in Plastic Surgery and achieved the rank of Professor of Surgery and Pediatrics. A Fulbright Scholar, Dr. Vásconez focused his research and teaching on improving surgical education and outcomes in developing nations, particularly in Ecuador, where he has led medical and surgical missions for underprivileged children for over 30 years.

Recognized as a leader in plastic surgery, Dr. Vásconez has earned numerous awards, including the *Best Doctors in America* designation spanning over a decade and the *Top Plastic Surgeon* honor by the International Association of Healthcare Professionals. His groundbreaking contributions to science include over 100 peer-reviewed publications in areas such as bone regeneration, breast reconstruction, cancer treatment, and cryopreservation of tissue. His research has been supported by prestigious organizations, including the National Institutes of Health and the American Society of Plastic Surgery.

Currently serving as the Dean of Medicine at Universidad San Francisco de Quito, Dr. Vásconez continues to inspire future generations of surgeons through his leadership and mentorship. His dedication to global healthcare, innovative research, and patient-centered care has left an enduring impact on the field of plastic surgery.