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Operation Smile has transformed lives around the world by providing care to patients for more than 40 years.
- Cleft Explained Get the basics on cleft conditions.
- Surgery and Beyond Learn how cleft care is more than surgery.
- Real-Life Stories Read stories from our patients and volunteers.
Using AI to Help Create New Smiles and Rebuild Lives

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We are transforming communities through education, empowerment and collaboration.
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- Where We Work Explore the countries and regions we work in.
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- Youth Empowerment Read about our commitment to the next generation.
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- Thought Leadership Learn how we are at the forefront of our field.
Give children the chance to grow up without life-threatening health problems and social stigma.
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Since our founding in 1982, Operation Smile has believed that access to safe surgery is not a privilege, but a universal human right.
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- Cleft Explained
- Surgery and Beyond
- Real-Life Stories
- Where We Work
- Health Workforce Strengthening
- Youth Empowerment
- Policy and Advocacy
- Strategic Partners
- Thought Leadership
- Ways to Give
- Share Your Medical Expertise
- Student Programs
- Advocate for Us
- Partner With Us
- Our Story and Impact
- Our Leadership
- Corporate Partners
- Financials and Reports
- News and Media
- Interactive Learning Center
- Careers

Bolivia

In Bolivia, where childhood malnutrition and poverty are widespread, Operation Smile provides a crucial bridge to health care for children born with cleft conditions.

Visit Operation Smile Bolivia’s Website

In Bolivia, 1 in 373 children are born with a cleft condition. Many don’t receive care.

Image of map of Bolivia

Operation Smile Bolivia: By the Numbers

By building local care capacity, Operation Smile teams ensure children receive safe surgery and multidisciplinary cleft support.

1999

Year Services Began in Bolivia

4,900+

Cleft surgeries provided

60+

Certified Volunteers

When Jack was first brought to an Operation Smile Bolivia program, he was surrounded by people devoted to changing his life.

Read Jack’s Story

“Thank you everyone,” Claudina said. “Our children can smile and do not need to be hidden.”

Read Heydi’s Story

“Thank you for making my baby so handsome.”

Read Andy’s Story

More Stories from Bolivia

View More

Latin America and the Caribbean

Education and Transformation: Operation Smile Champion Program
Latin America and the Caribbean

A Grandmother’s Everlasting Love
Latin America and the Caribbean

A Radio Announcement Reaches This Hopeful Family
Latin America and the Caribbean

Timely Cleft Surgery, Brighter Futures
Latin America and the Caribbean

A Family’s Journey Toward Healing
Latin America and the Caribbean

In Bolivia, an 18-hour Bus Ride Leads to Life-Changing Surgery

Get Involved

You can give children a chance to grow up without life-threatening health problems, social stigma, isolation and feelings of hopelessness.

More Ways to Get Involved

Make Your Gift

Your gift today will help transform lives and increase access to essential surgical care.

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