Creating Smiles, Improving Lives

Dr. Fernando Almas

Director of Surgical Operations

Dr. Fernando Henrique Almas de Carvalho is an esteemed Oral and Maxillofacial and Craniofacial Surgeon specializing in cleft lip and palate surgery, facial trauma, and facial reconstructive procedures. He holds multiple advanced degrees, including MD, DDS, FICS, FACS, MPH, and PhD, and has made significant contributions to the field through his work with underserved populations worldwide. Dr. Carvalho has been involved in numerous humanitarian missions with international organizations like Mercy Ships, Operation International, Austin Smiles, Médecins Sans Frontières (Doctors Without Borders), and Global Smile Foundation, providing critical surgical care and training to healthcare professionals in developing countries.

Dr. Carvalho’s commitment to surgical education and global health is evident through his involvement in international summits and workshops aimed at improving surgical care in resource-limited settings. He has also been a pioneer in the use of augmented reality in cleft surgery, enhancing training and patient safety. His work is widely published in leading journals, and he has been recognized by the United States Consul General in Ecuador for his efforts in strengthening international relations through medical missions.

In addition to his medical and dental degrees, Dr. Carvalho has obtained certifications and fellowships in craniofacial surgery, comprehensive cleft surgery, advanced facial trauma surgery, and pediatric life support. He has held key roles as the Surgical Director for the Global Smile Foundation, Project HARAR, and Operation International, significantly contributing to the development of comprehensive cleft care programs. Dr. Carvalho’s extensive background in humanitarian missions includes serving as a consultant surgeon with organizations like Mercy Ships, Operation International, and Austin Smiles in various countries, including Senegal, Ghana, Bhutan, El Salvador, Bolivia, and Uganda. In these roles, he has performed complex surgeries, conducted grand rounds, and provided educational lectures and demonstrations in cleft lip/palate surgery, facial trauma, and reconstructive procedures.

Dr. Carvalho has also contributed academically, serving as a Clinical Assistant Professor and staff surgeon at various medical institutions in Brazil. In recognition of his humanitarian efforts, he has received several prestigious awards, including the “Prêmio Saúde” from the President of Brazil and accolades from the United States Consulate in Guayaquil. He is an active member of several professional societies and has played a pivotal role in organizing international cleft care workshops, furthering education and surgical standards in resource-limited settings.