Tessa, nicknamed “Voldemort” due to being born without a nose, stands out with her distinctive appearance, challenging societal norms of beauty. Born with the rare condition complete congenital arhinia, Tessa faces unique challenges, as this anomaly, affecting only a few globally, results in the absence of a nose.
Her condition extends to the lack of an olfactory system, responsible for recognizing smells. Despite these challenges, Tessa embraces life with unmatched enthusiasm, refusing to let her condition define her. Arhinia occurs when the nose fails to develop in the womb, creating a facial feature void.
In Tessa’s case, it extends beyond appearance to the absence of her olfactory system. Her parents, recognizing her beauty and uniqueness, inspire others to appreciate the diverse beauty inherent in every individual, challenging preconceived notions of what it truly means to be exceptional.
Shortly after birth, Tessa was moved to the intensive care unit, where she underwent a tracheotomy to assist with breathing. At the age of eleven months, she faced cataract surgery, adding to the early challenges.
At the age of two, Tessa opted for cosmetic surgery, implanting prostheses beneath her skin, laying the foundation for a future artificial nose. The decision was weighed carefully by her parents, viewing it as an opportunity to gradually improve Tessa’s appearance. This involved bone and skin grafts, a procedure typically recommended during adolescence.
Living without a nose, Tessa has adapted by breathing through her mouth and lacking the sense of smell. Despite these hurdles, her infectious joy and enthusiasm serve as a powerful testament to her unwavering determination to embrace life to the fullest.