KARACHI: Dr Mah Noor, the young doctor who survived a shocking acid attack at Quetta’s Civil Hospital, is expected to remain under medical care in Karachi for at least one month as doctors carry out a series of reconstructive procedures to treat the injuries she sustained in the assault.
Hospital sources said the doctor is undergoing specialized treatment at Aga Khan University Hospital (AKUH), where a multidisciplinary team is monitoring her condition and planning further surgeries aimed at restoring facial function and appearance.
Despite the severity of her injuries, doctors have declared her condition stable and out of immediate danger. However, her recovery is expected to be lengthy and medically complex.
Facial injuries require multiple reconstructive procedures
According to hospital sources, Dr Mah Noor suffered significant injuries to her lips and nose during the attack.
A reconstructive procedure involving her lips was successfully performed on Sunday, marking the first major step in her treatment journey. Medical teams have also scheduled a major plastic surgery procedure, while additional reconstructive interventions are expected over the coming weeks.
Doctors familiar with burn and facial trauma cases note that acid attack survivors often require staged surgeries spread over several weeks or months, depending on the extent of tissue damage and healing progress.
Eye specialists assess vision concerns
In addition to facial injuries, Dr Mah Noor has reported blurred vision following the attack.
Sources said a specialist ophthalmologist conducted a detailed examination to assess potential damage to her eyes.
Earlier medical assessments indicated the presence of bilateral corneal opacities, a condition in which the transparent surface of the eye becomes scarred. However, hospital sources have indicated that her vision remains preserved, offering a positive sign amid an otherwise challenging recovery process.
Specialists continue to monitor her ocular health closely as part of her ongoing treatment plan.
Attack shocked medical community
The incident has triggered widespread outrage across Pakistan's healthcare community.
Dr Mah Noor was attacked inside Quetta’s Civil Hospital on Saturday when an individual threw acid on her, causing burns to multiple parts of her body, including her face, chest, and legs.
The attack immediately drew condemnation from doctors, healthcare workers, women's rights advocates, and civil society organizations, many of whom called for stronger protections for healthcare professionals and tougher measures against gender-based violence.
Medical associations across the country have also demanded justice and accountability in the case.
Suspect killed hours after attack
The case moved rapidly after the attack, with Balochistan authorities launching an urgent operation to apprehend the suspect.
According to official accounts, law enforcement agencies traced the alleged attacker while he was attempting to flee the area. The suspect was later killed during a police encounter.
The swift response followed directives from the Balochistan government to arrest the accused as quickly as possible after the incident sparked public anger and national attention.
Man who helped injured doctor to receive civil award
Amid the tragedy, one act of courage has drawn widespread praise.
Abdul Razzaq Tarakai, a Civil Hospital employee who rushed to assist Dr Mah Noor immediately after the attack, has been nominated for a civil award by the Balochistan government.
CCTV footage from the hospital showed Tarakai coming to the doctor's aid moments after the assault, helping shield and assist her as she emerged seeking help.
Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfaraz Bugti announced that Tarakai would be honored for demonstrating exceptional courage, humanity, and dedication during a critical moment.
A long road to recovery
While the immediate medical emergency has passed, Dr Mah Noor now faces the difficult process of physical and emotional recovery.
Experts say acid attack survivors often require long-term reconstructive treatment, psychological support, and rehabilitation to rebuild their lives after such traumatic incidents.
As her treatment continues in Karachi, healthcare professionals across Pakistan remain hopeful for her recovery while renewing calls for stronger workplace safety measures and greater protection for women working in healthcare settings.
The case has become a powerful reminder of both the vulnerability of healthcare workers to violence and the extraordinary courage shown by individuals who step forward to help in moments of crisis.
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