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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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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

Colombia

Operation Smile estimates that there are between 45,000 and 65,000 people in Colombia affected by cleft conditions. Our local team brings hope.

Visit Operation Smile Colombia’s Website

In Colombia, 1 in 800 children are born with a cleft condition. Many don’t receive care.

Map of Colombia

Operation Smile Colombia: By the Numbers

In Colombia, children affected by cleft conditions receive access to safe surgery and multidisciplinary support.

1988

Year Services Began in Colombia

25,000+

Cleft Surgeries

500+

Surgical Programs

In less than an hour, Pedro received the surgery he deserved to have in the first months of his life.

Read Pedro’s story

“It was my dream to have this baby. I couldn’t believe this was happening.” 

Read Laura’s story

“I saw the struggles those kids go through. I knew I wanted to do something more.”

Read about Andrea’s psychosocial work in Colombia

More Stories from Colombia

View More

Latin America and the Caribbean

Laura’s Lifelong Journey of Care
Global

Health for All: Transcending Borders
Latin America and the Caribbean

A Historic Shipment is Saving Lives in Colombia
Latin America and the Caribbean

Amid Crisis, Healing
Latin America and the Caribbean

Perseverance and Resilience: Lexxi’s Journey of Healing Through Operation Smile Colombia
Latin America and the Caribbean

Care for Brighter Futures: Luciana’s Story
Latin America and the Caribbean

Treating the Whole Patient: Psychologist Andrea Díaz
Latin America and the Caribbean

Engineered for Healing: Operation Smile Colombia

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

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