She Underwent ‘Smile Surgery’ at 11. After Looking in the Mirror, the Results Left Her ‘Broken’ (Exclusive)
AOL.com • • health
Key Points:
- Tayla Clement, born with the rare neurological condition Moebius syndrome causing facial paralysis, underwent a “smile surgery” at age 11 that ultimately failed to give her the ability to smile.
- The unsuccessful surgery led to intensified bullying and severe emotional distress, including suicide attempts and seizures triggered by stress.
- At 19, Clement began intensive therapy, gradually improving her mental health and physical acceptance, leading to a significant reduction in seizures.
- Now 28, Clement shares her story with over 100,000 social media followers, works in the medical device field, and enjoys a fulfilling personal life with a long-term partner and homeownership.
- She expresses gratitude for the failed surgery, hoping her experience inspires greater acceptance and challenges societal beauty standards linked to acceptance.
