Face transplant patient shows features
(AP)
Updated: 2006-02-07 07:14

The Labrador was euthanized, but Dinoire has since acquired a new dog.

Her surgeons — who have been criticized for going ahead with a radical, untested procedure without trying traditional reconstruction first — defended their decision and said they repeatedly warned Dinoire about the risks.

The doctors also said they have asked French health authorities for permission for five more similar transplants. Dr. Jean-Michel Dubernard said they wanted "to give this operation to many other people in France and in the world."

Dubernard noted that Dinoire overcame an episode of rejection in the third week after the surgery and said her recent biopsies were "very satisfying."

Dinoire has continued smoking — a habit Dubernard said he hoped she would break, as it can lead to complications.

"Tobacco in itself does not carry risks of rejection .... but it is a factor that can aggravate things," he said.

Dubernard said he was sure she would stop in the weeks or months ahead but showed understanding. "Put yourself in her place for a second," he said. "It's extraordinarily stressful."