Houphan was severely scalded with hot water when she was only four years old. The burns scarring that followed not only significantly disfigured her, but drastically reduced the movement and function of her right arm and her neck.

After two operations over two years by Interplast volunteer surgical teams - who worked alongside local surgeons - in Laos, Houphan's burns contractures were released, enabling her to regain full movement of her neck.

Following the latest operation this year, Interplast's volunteer occupational therapist worked with local medical staff to construct a long-term head and neck splint to stabilise Houphan's head in a neutral position and to protect the healing skin graft from infection.

Houphan has endured years of pain and isolation because of her burns contractures, but today as a strong and brave 14-year-old, she is well and truly on the road to recovery.

Not only is Houphan's life changed, but local surgeons, anaesthetists, nurses and allied health staff have gained first-hand experience in complex reconstructive cases, so they too can continue to deliver safe and effective surgery, post-operative care and rehabilitation when Interplast is not there.

This program and many others delivered across the Asia Pacific by Interplast are supported by the Australian Government through the Australian NGO Cooperation Program (ANCP).