Face Transplant Patient Continues to Improve

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She is considered a medical miracle and Connie Culp's recovery continues to improve.

Culp underwent the nation's first face transplant surgery at the Cleveland Clinic last Decenber.

According to a report in the November / December issue of the Archive of Facial Plastic Surgery, Culp's surgeon says Connie can now smell, taste food and breathe through her nose.

According to a report in HealthDay News, blood vessels from the transplanted facial tissue have began to integrate with existing tissue.

Her surgeon also says her motor skills, including the ability to speak are improving.

Culp was shot in the face by her husband in a failed murder-suicide attempt in 2004.

The shotgun destroyed her nose, jaw and cheeks and left her blind.

Eight surgeons replaced more than 80-percent of Culp's face during a 22 hours surgical procedure.