Early in his medical career, Dr. Saman, a renowned facial plastic surgeon in NYC, knew he wanted to give back. He was deeply moved by the lack of resources and awareness about facial deformities and differences. Along with his wife, who is a pediatric dentist, he created a grassroots organization named Chance to Smile to help those in need. They provided much-needed help to underprivileged patients in remote areas of South Texas and also created a social program to raise awareness about facial differences in hopes of reducing the stigma associated with conditions like cleft lip and palate. The impact of this work has been profound, not only in terms of the immediate assistance provided but also in fostering a greater understanding and acceptance of facial differences within these communities.
During his tenure as the director of head and neck cancer and reconstructive surgery, Dr. Saman established a program that provided funding and pro bono surgery for patients who were underprivileged or lacked insurance. This initiative was a great source of satisfaction and reward, enabling his team to help thousands of deserving patients receive the care they needed. The gratitude and relief expressed by those they helped were incredibly fulfilling and reinforced his commitment to this work. Each patient’s story was a testament to the life-changing power of medical intervention and the importance of making such care accessible to all, regardless of their financial situation.
Since 2007, Dr. Saman has traveled annually to underprivileged regions to provide pro bono surgery. These trips are a cornerstone of his philanthropic efforts, allowing him to directly address the medical needs of those who would otherwise go without treatment. Each year, he returns from these trips with a renewed sense of purpose and a deeper appreciation for the resilience and courage of the people he serves. Philanthropy is not just a part of his professional life; it is a core aspect of who he is as a human being. It reminds him of the fundamental values of compassion, empathy, and service that guide his work and life.
