Orthognathic Surgery: My Experience of Transitioning to Adult Cleft Care

Kenny Ardouin grew up in East Sussex in the United Kingdom (UK), before moving to New Zealand, which he now considers home. Having been born with a cleft lip and palate, Kenny has a personal and professional dedication to the field. He served as CEO of the charitable organization Cleft New Zealand and recently completed 3.5 years as the Adult Services Manager for the Cleft Lip and Palate Association in the UK. Kenny works as a speech and language therapist, and is studying a Master's degree part-time, focused on the psychological impact of speech differences in adolescents and adults born with a cleft. Kenny is also a radio broadcaster and editor and a freelance public speaker. In this heartfelt and informative invited editorial, Kenny reflects on how his treatment journey unfolded as a young adult and offers key learning points for all health professionals wanting to become more person-focused in their clinical practice.