On the occasion of this year’s International Women’s Day, we interviewed ISCFS President, Prof. Irene Mathijssen, about her experiences and her journey in craniofacial surgery.
You are an inspiration and set an example of what women can achieve in craniofacial surgery.
What has empowered you over the course of your career to stay persistent so that you could develop into who you are today professionally?
Who was/were your mentor(s) and who are you grateful to for their support along the way?
Irene Mathijssen: The belief that, with dedication and time, I could not only perform craniofacial surgery but also contribute meaningfully to the field through research has always empowered me. Key mentors include Michiel Vaandrager, a craniofacial surgeon at my department, and Eric Arnaud, who fully supported me in becoming the coordinator of the European Reference Network for Craniofacial Anomalies and ENT Disorders (ERN CRANIO), even in the midst of fierce competition. Their guidance and encouragement have been invaluable throughout my journey.
What has been one of the most significant challenges you’ve faced as a woman in craniofacial surgery, and what did that experience ultimately give you in terms of growth or perspective? How can women benefit from being ISCFS members?
Irene Mathijssen: During the competition for the ERN CRANIO coordinator position, my competitor launched a very personal attack. That experience revealed who genuinely supported me and who chose to remain neutral—highlighting the importance of knowing whom you can trust. A similar struggle arose when I became head of the department of plastic surgery. There were many moments when giving up seemed easier, but focusing on my goal kept me going.
ISCFS members hopefully experience the inclusiveness of the society in all aspects. When I first attended the meeting in St. Tropez, France, there were very few women present. Today, the landscape has changed significantly, with female representatives now part of the council, reflecting a much more inclusive environment.
#GivetoGain is this year’s theme. What advice would you give to women who are at the beginning of their craniofacial orthodontic careers? And for those who are more established and seeking leadership positions?
Irene Mathijssen: For those starting out: be willing to invest the time necessary to achieve your goals and remain critical. Don’t accept dogma—question the evidence behind current treatments and dare to do things differently. For those more established: don’t wait to be asked for a leadership position. Express your interest openly, get involved, and contribute meaningfully. Visibility matters—by showing your capabilities, you signal that you are ready to lead.
What is one lesson you intentionally pass on that you wish you had learned earlier?
Irene Mathijssen: Don’t be overly impressed by others—focus on what you do best and pursue excellence in your own work
What does the theme #GiveToGain mean to you in the context of your orthodontic career?
Irene Mathijssen: I continue to learn from colleagues in other specialties. Combining knowledge across fields improves patient care the most. Being open to other perspectives provides fresh insights that shape better outcomes and innovative approaches.
How can women collectively use the principle of #GiveToGain to shape the next chapter of craniofacial surgery?
Irene Mathijssen: By supporting each other in every possible way—giving women researchers a platform at meetings, ensuring equal opportunities for fellowships, staff positions, and leadership roles. Visibility in leadership positions has far more impact than I ever realized, and collectively, women can drive meaningful change in the field by empowering one another.
