The decision of Nigeria international forward Victor Osimhen to not drop the protective mask he was given as protection after facial surgery has generated lot of talks as he was expected to wear the mask for a while.
However he hasn’t let go off it after over a year with the mask and it has coincided with his first real consistent run in front of goal with 19 goals to his name as Napoli close in on a first league title since the 80’s.
Dr. Gianpaolo Tartaro who performed the surgery stated why the current Serie A top scorer is finding it hard to let go off the mask as it affords him more security after almost going blind before he was operated upon.
“The orbital bone stopped just in time because Osimhen could even have lost his sight,” Tartaro said to Radio CRC.
“That bone could indeed have caused other problems, but fortunately some factors helped us and the eye was able to go back into its socket.
“The plaques do not need to be removed unless there is an urgent need; for example if they develop an infection. The titanium could alter an X-ray, but I don’t think Osimhen wants them removed.
“When we performed the surgery, we used the best quality plaques in the world and had to study very carefully where to place them, so there was protection should the player have to head the ball.”
Explaining further he said the mask has become a source of assurance to the 23 year old that he is safe while on the bench after wearing it for a while and it has made him world class. ““He seems to play even better than he did before, it gives him security. He has become world-class.”
Daniel Martins
