Hunstad Kortesis Plastic Surgery + Med Spa has made the final selections of recipients for the Emerging Hopes program– an annual philanthropic initiative that will gift life-changing plastic surgery and cosmetic procedures to needy individuals who could not otherwise afford them. This includes: victims of domestic violence; cancer survivors; accident victims; those whose insurance won't cover plastic surgery to correct issues like birth defects, excess skin removal and more.

Seven individuals have been selected by an impartial advisory panel who will collectively receive a total of $173,000 in free cosmetic procedures. Some of the surgeries to be performed include: hypertrophic scar revision for a victim of domestic violence; a breast revision for a breast cancer survivor; a tummy tuck for a person who has lost 100 pounds and wants to set a better example for her kids; and a medical breast reduction to help a woman with low income.

"These are people in need and we now have the opportunity to restore their confidence, dignity and hope for a happier life," said Bill Kortesis, MD, FACS, co-owner of Hunstad Kortesis.

"The first Emerging Hopes surgery is scheduled for August 27 and our entire team is very excited," added Gaurav Bharti, MD. "Through this amazing program we are truly transforming lives."

"Of course our big dream is to see Emerging Hopes become a national program with thousands of recipients each year," said Joseph P. Hunstad, MD, FACS, founder of Hunstad Kortesis. "For now we're honored to be part of the only program of its kind in Charlotte."