The statistics are staggering: at least one in three women around the world have been physically abused; approximately half of all murders and disfiguring assault in major metropolitan areas are gang-related, and there remains very little relief or programs for recovery for affected victims further than the court systems.
  
Approximately two-thirds of reported domestic violence incidents are classified as "simple assaults," which is a misdemeanor rather than a felony. But up to 50 percent of these "simple assaults" result in physical injuries and disfigurements that are as (or more) serious than 90 percent of all rapes, robberies, and aggravated assaults.
  
Domestic violence is abuse committed by a spouse, a former spouse, a boyfriend or girlfriend, or a cohabitant upon another individual. It is estimated that a domestic violence act occurs every 15 seconds somewhere in the United States. That figure translates to over 2.5 million victims per year. This abuse affects the lives of the victim and the family and children who live within the boundaries of these abusive relationships.
  
In many cases, the effects of continued or traumatic abuse are lasting and indelible. These marks are a constant reminder of abuse and can show as scars, burns, cuts, persistent bruising, or immobility. This can significantly affect the ability of former victims to find jobs, integrate with the public, erase the past and find courage to move forward toward the future.
  
Face Forward partners with communities throughout the United States to recognize and respond to women and children affected by violence. We provide reconstructive relief to erase the scars of the past and enable victims to put their best face forward toward recovery.
  
Our surgeons have provided relief to many patients with truly life-changing results.